Two Critical Concept Indexes, Combining With Different Physiological Variables, In Predicting 2000m Indoor Rowing Performance

The purpose of this study was to compare the different critical thresholds, critical velocity (CV) and critical power (CP), combining with anaerobic power and energy expenditure to predict the 2,000m indoor performance of female rowers in Taiwan. Fifteen elite female rowers (age 20.7±1.4 years, height 164±3.5cm, weight 56.6±4.4kg) were recruited for this study. By using counter-balanced design order, 4 time-trials on 90s, 240s, 600s and 1,200s were underwent to determine the CP (139.5±20.4W), whereas CV (4.0±0.1 m/s) was derived by 400m, 600m, 800m and 1,000m distance-trials on different days by using linear distance-time model. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak=2.5±0.5L/min) and anaerobic threshold (AT4=157.8±22.1W) were obtained from an incremental exercise test. Further, anaerobic capacity (6,912.1±895.6W), mean power (323.2±26.7W) and fatigue index (3.8±2.6%) were obtained using a modified Wingate protocol on rowing ergometer followed by a 2,000 m time-trial. The results showed that CV, CP as well as VO2peak and AT4 were significantly correlated with 2,000 m indoor rowing performance. Stepwise regression analysis indicated CV and fatigue index (FI) were most important determinants in establishing predicting model of 2,000 m indoor rowing performance (T2000=-131.44 CV-89.57 FI+1022.27, SEE=4.08s). This study concludes that both CV and CP were significant correlated with 2,000m indoor rowing performance. CV and FI constructed the best predicting model for indoor rowing performance of female rowers in Taiwan.

<p>This randomized controlled trial examined whether repeated-sprint training (RST) performed on sand or grass induces different adaptations in collegiate soccer players. Forty-two male players were randomly assigned to a sand-RST group (SAND, n = 14), a grass-RST group (GRASS, n = 14), or a control group (CON, n = 14). SAND and GRASS performed repeated-sprint training during two scheduled training sessions per week for six weeks, whereas CON completed standard technical soccer training of equivalent duration during the same two weekly sessions. All groups continued the same regular team training program, with the intervention delivered within two scheduled weekly sessions. Before and after the intervention, participants completed vertical jump tests including squat jump and countermovement jump, a running based anaerobic sprint test with peak, mean, and minimum power and fatigue index, and a graded treadmill test providing VO<sub>2max</sub>, anaerobic threshold, and running economy. Baseline-adjusted analyses were conducted to examine between-group differences (ANCOVA for outcomes meeting model assumptions; mixed-design ANOVA when assumptions were violated). These analyses showed significant Group by Time interactions for all jump and running based sprint variables and for VO<sub>2max</sub> and anaerobic threshold (p < 0.01), whereas the interaction for running economy was not significant (p = 0.15). Compared with GRASS, SAND showed greater improvements in squat jump (p < 0.01), mean power (p = 0.03), minimum power (p < 0.01), and fatigue index (p < 0.01). Aerobic adaptations were comparable between sand and grass, and no clear surface specific advantage was observed for running economy. In conclusion, implementing RST within scheduled team sessions improved jump performance, repeated-sprint performance indices, and aerobic fitness in collegiate soccer players, while sand-based training may provide greater benefits for squat jump and selected outcomes related to repeated-sprint fatigue resistance.</p>

Short-term recovery is crucial for elite athletes in general and for sports with heats and finals particularly. Athletes are expected to recover in a short time between heats and finals, and to recover in an even shorter time between two events in one session. Different methods have been employed to enhance short-term recovery. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 4 commonly used recovery techniques and treatments on 2-min upper-body power performance, and muscle damage. Methods Division I college swimmers, 5 females (67.7 ± 5.18 Kg) and 7 males (77.27 ± 5.36 Kg), performed two sessions of modified upper-body Wingate tests with 6hrs rest between sessions. Each session consisted of two upper-body Wingate tests with 40 min rest in between with a resistance of 4% of BW for males and 3.5% of BW for females. A combination of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ibuprofen, 23 g protein drink, and ice packs (COMB) were tested for possible effect in enhancing recovery compared to control. Criterion for recovery were restoration of peak power (PP), mean power (MP), fatigue index (FI), heart rate (HR), and reduced muscle disruption marker Creatine Kinase levels (CK). Blood samples were obtained before first performance, six hours later (6hrs), and next morning (24hrs) for serum CK levels. Results There were no significant differences (p>.05) between COMB (2.8W/Kg) and control (2.9W/Kg) in MP. However, FI was significantly lower (p=0.000) in the COMB group (37.4%) compared to control (50.5%). PP was higher in the control group (5.0W/kg) compare to (3.8W/Kg) in COMB group. CK changes were not statistically different between COMB and control after 6 and 24 hours. Seven subjects (5m & 2f) reported to the lab on a second occasion one week later (W2) and performed the same protocol using the same methods in a counter-balanced manner. We found that MP was significantly higher in W2. In addition, MP was higher (p=.007) in the control conditions compare to the COMB conditions; there were no significant effects for the COMB on any of the other parameters in the study (PP, FI, and CK). FI was 40.4% for both COMB and control conditions. Conclusion Common recovery approaches used by swimmers were not helpful in protecting from reductions in performance, since FI was not verified in the repeated measures. The assumed protective effect of antioxidant vitamins and ibuprofen were not seen under the conditions of this study.

The 30-s all-out Wingate test has been used in athletes of all sport specialties to measure the capacity for short duration, high power output while cycling. The aim of this study was to establish differences in measuring anaerobic capacity between the classic Wingate test on a cycling ergometer and the modified Wingate test on a rowing ergometer in rowers. A group of20 rowers was tested by both the cycle and rowing ergometers during 30s of maximum power to test anaerobic capacity and to make correlation between these tests. The parameters measured were the peak power and mean power. The peak power on the cycling ergometer was 475 +/- 75.1W and 522.4 +/- 81W (p < 0.05) on the rowing ergometer. The mean power on the cycling ergometer and the rowing ergometer was 344.4 +/- 51.1W and 473.7W +/- 67.2, (p < 0.05) respectively. The maximum values were achieved at the same time on both ergometers, but remained on the higher level till the end of the test on the rowing ergometer. By correlating the anaerobic parameters of the classic Wingate test and a modified Wingate test on the rowing ergometer a significant positive correlation was detected in the peak power (r = 0.63, p < 0.05) as well as in the mean power (r = 0.65, p < 0.05). The results show that the rowers achieved better results of the anaerobic parameters on the rowing ergometer compared to the cycling ergometer due to a better mechanical efficiency. It is concluded that the modified Wingate test on the rowing ergometer can be used in rowers for testing their anaerobic capacity as a sport specific test ergometer since it provides more precise results.

This study investigated the effects of adding a traditional strength training approach (endurance-strength = ES) during the pre-season versus a non-traditional approach where strength training is further maintained throughout the season (maximal-strength = MS), on aerobic and anaerobic parameters of off-road cyclists. Eleven off-road cyclists were divided into two groups. The ES group (n=6) performed during the first 8 weeks endurance-strength training, while the MS group (n=5) performed maximal-strength training, both together with their usual endurance training. During the following 8 weeks, only MS group maintained 1 session of strength training per week. 1RM, VO 2 max, Maximal aerobic power (Wmax), Power at 4-mmol·L -1 (LT 4.0 ), Peak Power (PP), Mean Power (MP), Power best 5s (PB5), Power last 5s (PL5) and Fatigue Index (FI) were assessed. Results showed that there were significant ( P < 0.05) increases for MS group in PP (+ 4.8%) from PRE to MID, in 1RM (+ 15.8%) from PRE to POST, while in the ES group there was a decrease in 1RM (- 16.1%), PL5 (-4.3%) with an increase in FI (+ 9.5) from MID to POST. Effect size calculations showed small and moderate improvements in PP (+ 3.6%), MP (+ 2.8%), PB5 (+ 4.3%) from PRE to POST for MS group, while ES group showed a small improvement in VO 2 max (+ 4.1%), LT 4.0 (+ 4.3%) and PB5 (+ 2.7%) from PRE to MID, and a small decrease between MID to POST in Wmax (- 4.1%) and MP (- 2.6%). These results suggest that by including a non-traditional strength training approach it is possible to maintain aerobic levels and possibly increase anaerobic parameters throughout the off-road cycling season

Resistance training and exercise tolerance during high-intensity exercise: moving beyond just running economy and muscle strength.

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of upper body anaerobic power, as measured by the Wingate Anaerobic Arm Test (WAAT), in 50-m sprint swim performance. Thirty competitive age-group swimmers (14 males and 16 females) participated in this investigation. Subjects had been training daily for 5 months prior to the study, swimming an average of 6,000 m.d-1, 6 d.wk-1. Swimmers performed a WAAT and a 50-m time-trial. Peak power (PP), mean power (MP) and fatigue index (FI) were determined for the WAAT. Subjects also reported their current competition performances for all distances up to 400 m. Significant relationships were obtained between swim speed over 50 m (S50) and PP (r = 0.82, p less than 0.001), S50 and MP (r = 0.83, p less than 0.001), and S50 and FI (r = 0.41, p less than 0.05). PP and MP showed significant but generally decreasing correlations with swim speed as distance increased. Substantial relationships (r = 0.74-0.96, p less than 0.001) were found between S50 and swim speeds over distances up to and including 400 m. This study shows a strong relationship exists between upper body anaerobic power, as measured by the WAAT, and performance in both sprint and longer distance (400 m) swim events. The WAAT may serve as a useful tool for coaches to objectively evaluate and monitor the upper body anaerobic power of competitive swimmers.

Purpose: The main aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the concurrent training method of muscular strength training or muscular endurance training combined with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the aerobic threshold (AerT) and anaerobic threshold (AT). Material and methods: Twenty soccer player from the University team were recruited. Participants were divided into muscular strength training group (MS, N = 10) and the muscular endurance training group (ME, N = 10). All subjects sustained the regular specific training programs during the experimental period and had additional different concurrent training twice per week for twelve weeks. power output during the graded exercise test, peak power (PP), average power (AP), fatigue index (FI) during anaerobic power test were tested by graded exercise test on Wingate anaerobic power test. as well as one-repetition maximum (1-RM) of lower limbs and Romanian Deadlift (RDL) - Hamstring Leg Exercise were tested simultaneously before and after the experiment. Data were analysed by two-way mixed design ANOVA. Results: After 12 weeks of training, the AT power output, 1-RM of half squat and the 1-RM of RDL were significantly higher than before training (MS: 407.12 ± 52.92 vs 431.78± 48.84 watt, 157.45 ± 35.66 vs 169.87 ± 47.31 kg, 120.16± 15.28 vs 122.56± 19.39 kg; ME: 411.11 ± 48.48 vs 429.16 ± 52.13 watt, 135.34 ± 26.27 vs 144.41 ± 35.78 kg, 96.93 ± 24.57 vs 103.46 ± 24.15 kg, p .05) in MS group and ME group. Time to exhaustion of graded exercise test in ME group was significantly higher than before training (22.13 ± 7.73 vs 25.78 ± 8.74 min, 23.44 ± 7.73 vs 24.78 ± 8.74 p .05). The AerT power output, PP, AP, and FI were no significant changes in both groups. Nevertheless, all dependent variables were no significant difference between groups before and after training. Conclusion: Conducting the concurrent training method of muscular strength training or muscular endurance training combined with HIIT twice per week for twelve weeks increased soccer players’ aerobic endurance as well as 1-RM of lower limbs. The concurrent training method of muscular endurance training combined with HIIT also promoted the performance of time to exhaustion. However, there were no significant difference between two training methods and minor significant benefits on anaerobic power.

The purpose of this study was to compare measured selected physiological variables (VO2, VE, SaO2) and lactate [LA] during maximal oxygen uptake test (VO2max) to physiological variables resulting from anaerobic performance tests in a group of highly trained young athletes. 14 subjects (3 females and 11 males) volunteered to participate in this study(mean age±SD, 17.1±1.8; WT, 77.1±10.2:HT, 176.5±7.6;%BF 13.34±7.6). All subjects underwent a VO2max and 2 modified Wingate Tests (WAnT) utilizing SensorMedics V-Max 29 metabolic cart in a breath by breath mode. A Monark model 814E cycle ergometer was used for all tests. The first 30s WAnT was conducted at 0.075 kp resistance per kg of body weight (BW) and the second 120s WAnT at 0.050 kp/kg/BW. Subjects achieved VO2max of 52.9±6.8, VE of 137.7±23.0, SaO2 84.6±3.7 and peak LA of 13.2 mmol/l. WAnT of 30s yielded VO2 peak of 47.1±5.8, VE of 147.4±19.4, SaO2 of 81.6±3.3, peak power (PPO) of 1030±180, mean power (MPO) of 854.5±140.1 and fatigue index (FI) of 33.5±6.1%. The 120s WAnT yielded VO2 of 53.3±4.7, VE of 159.0±25.8, SaO2 of 81.9±2.8, PPO of 672.3±130.3, MPO of 386.5±60.4 and FI of 56.1±5.1%. Statistical analysis(ANOVA) revealed significant differences (p<0.01) between VO2max and both VO2peak measures, however, there was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) between the VO2max and VO2peak for WAnT at 120s. Results of our investigation suggest that peak VO2 values from the 120s WAnT at 0.50 kp/kg/BW may be substituted for VO2max test. Our data indicate that during both WAnT the VE was significantly higher compared to VO2max test and SaO2 significantly lower than VO2max test suggesting that this type of testing may substitute for VO2max testing of highly trained athletes.

This study sought to assess the reliability and comparability of two custom-built isokinetic dynamometers (Model A and Model B) with the gold-standard (Humac Norm). The two custom-built dynamometers consisted of commercially available leg extension machines attached to a robotically controlled resistance device (1080 Quantum), able to measure power, force and velocity outputs. Twenty subjects (14m/6f, 26±4.8yr, 176±7cm, 74.4±12.4kg) performed concentric leg extensions on the custom-built dynamometers and the Humac Norm. Fifteen maximal leg extensions were performed with each leg at 180° s-1, or the linear equivalent (~0.5m s-1). Peak power (W), mean power (W), and fatigue indexes (%) achieved on all three devices were compared. Both custom-built dynamometers revealed high reliability for peak and mean power on repeated tests (ICC>0.88). Coefficient of variation (CV) and standard error of measurement (SEM) were small when comparing power outputs obtained using Model A and the Humac Norm ( CV = 9.0%, SEM = 49W; peak CV = 8.4%, peak SEM = 49W). Whereas, Model B had greater variance ( CV = 13.3% SEM = 120W; peak CV = 14.7%, peak SEM = 146W). The custom-built dynamometers are capable of highly reliable measures, but absolute power outputs varied depending on the leg extension model. Consistent use of a single model offers reliable results for tracking muscular performance over time or testing an intervention.

The aims of this study were to investigate whether the running anaerobic sprint test, lactate minimum and critical velocity protocol can be applied in shuttle futsal testing, and to investigate if these protocols provide related variables. Seven male welltrained futsal players were evaluated. The lactate minimum test (LacMin) consisted of three phases: a) a hyperlactatemia phase using the running anaerobic sprint test (RAST); b) recovery phase; c) an incremental shuttle test for the lactate minimum speed (LMS) determination. Successful rate (SR) was calculated for feasibility analysis. Peak, mean and minimum power and fatigue index were obtained by the RAST application (six bouts – 35 meters). The critical velocity protocol (CV) was applied through three exhaustive shuttle tests (12, 13 and 14 km/h) with distances of 20 meters. Critical velocity (Cv) and anaerobic running capacity (ARC) were analysed by the linear (velocity vs.1/tlim) and hyperbolic (time vs.velocity) models. Fits of regression (R²) were considered as the main result for feasibility analysis of CV. ANOVA showed a difference between linear (11.04 ±0.55 km/h) and LMS (9.67 ±0.50 km/h), and no significant correlation was observed between them. High SR (85.71%) was observed for LacMin, and high R² for CV (linear-R² = 0.99 ±0.04; hyperbolic-R² = 0.98 ±0.02).Overall, the RAST, LacMin and CV can be successfully applied in shuttle futsal testing, nonetheless, precaution is necessary since the test results were not related.

Existing doping detection strategies rely on direct and indirect biochemical measurement methods focused on detecting banned substances, their metabolites, or biomarkers related to their use. However, the goal of doping is to improve performance, and yet evidence from performance data is not considered by these strategies. The emergence of portable sensors for measuring exercise intensities and of player tracking technologies may enable the widespread collection of performance data. How these data should be used for doping detection is an open question. Herein, we review the basis by which performance models could be used for doping detection, followed by critically reviewing the potential of the critical power (CP) model as a prototypical performance model that could be used in this regard. Performance models are mathematical representations of performance data specific to the athlete. Some models feature parameters with physiological interpretations, changes to which may provide clues regarding the specific doping method. The CP model is a simple model of the power-duration curve and features two physiologically interpretable parameters, CP and W′. We argue that the CP model could be useful for doping detection mainly based on the predictable sensitivities of its parameters to ergogenic aids and other performance-enhancing interventions. However, our argument is counterbalanced by the existence of important limitations and unresolved questions that need to be addressed before the model is used for doping detection. We conclude by providing a simple worked example showing how it could be used and propose recommendations for its implementation.

Tests of aerobic capacity are valid and reliable in children with mental retardation (MR), including children with Down syndrome (DS). However, there is no information on anaerobic capabilities in children with MR, and it is unknown if the Wingate test of anaerobic power is reliable in this population. We investigated the reliability of the Wingate test in 23 children with MR (age = 14.2 yrs; weight = 51.4 kg; height = 146.8 cm). Subjects completed 2 Wingate tests, on separate days, following appropriate laboratory familiarization. On test days, subjects warmed up, and were asked to complete a standard Wingate test immediately following warm up. Mean anearobic power was 172 W and 181 W on the first and second test respectively, with an intraclass reliability of r = 0.96 (p < 0.01). Peak power was 247 W and 273 W on the first and second test, respectively, with an intraclass reliability of r = 0.98 (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference between days for either peak or mean power. The time to peak power was 5.75 sec and 5.71 sec on the first and second test respectively, with an intraclass reliability coefficient of r = 0.83 (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference between the two tests for the time to peak power. However, the fatigue index was significantly different between days (13.7 W/sec and 8.0 W/sec for test 1 and 2, respectively; p < 0.04) with a lower intraclass reliability coefficient (r = 0.73; p < 0.01). These data show that children with MR exhibit low levels of anaerobic capacity compared to previously published data for their non-disabled peers. This is consistent with low physical fitness and aerobic capacity levels usually found in children MR. However, the 30 sec Wingate test is a reliable test in children MR, especially for mean power and peak power.

Many consider the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) as a reference standard assessment mode in the measurement of lower limb short-term power output. However the WAnT is criticised for having low ecological validity, in non-cycling tasks and is reliant on a predetermined applied force, which might not elicit the highest power output. A viable alternative to the WAnT is the Non-Motorised Treadmill (NMT) Test, which allows for power measurement in all-out intensity effort sprint-running. With the reliability of the NMT to elicit power in sedentary adults already established, the aim was to compare peak power (PP) and mean power (MP) derived from a 10-s sprint on the NMT to that derived from a 10-s WAnT, to establish concurrent validity. Twelve male [age 26.6 +/- 2.4 years, body mass (BM) 63.0 +/- 7.2 kg] and 11 female (age 25.3 +/- 3.6 years, BM 51.0 +/- 4.0 kg) sedentary adults participated in the study. PP and MP in absolute, ratio-scaled and allometrically-scaled to BM were analysed. Ratio limits of agreement (LOA) was used to establish the agreement between PP and MP from the NMT and the WAnT. PP in absolute and ratio-scaled to BM from the NMT was between 1.04 and 1.12 times that of PP from the WAnT in 95% of the attempts (PP: NMT, 647.1 +/- 176.4W vs WAnT, 597.0 +/- 146.0W). MP in absolute and ratio-scaled to BM from the NMT test was between 0.88 and 0.97 times of that from the WAnT (MP: NMT, 508.9 +/- 130.7W vs WAnT, 548.7 +/- 131.3W). Power produced on the NMT and the WAnT by sedentary adults shared moderate and acceptable levels of agreement. These results affirmed that the NMT could be considered as a viable alternative to the WAnT for the assessment of PP and MP in allout intensity sprint-running lasting 10 s in sedentary adults.

Objective: To study the effects of an acute therapeutic oral intake of β2 agonist on performance and substrate response during supramaximal exercise in women. Methods: 12 healthy moderately trained female...