The 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin: The Response of America's Black Press

Abstract

Eighty-seven female masters swimmers ranging in age from 20 to 69 were selected for a detailed study of their body composition and physiological responses at rest and during exercise. These women were then placed into two subsets, a highly trained group and a not highly trained group, on the basis of the frequency, duration, and intensity of swimming workouts. Significant differences were detected when comparing the highly trained and not highly trained subjects on measures of weight, body density, percent fat and lean body weight (p<.05). Significant differences which favored the highly trained group were also seen when comparing these same two groups for [Vdot]_E max, [Vdot]O₂ max (1/min), [Vdot]O₂ max (ml·kg^–1·min^–1), [Vdot]O₂ max (ml·kg·LBW^–1·min^–1), O₂ pulse (ml·kg^–1·beat^–1), and O₂ pulse (ml·kg·LBW^–1). Both the highly trained and not highly trained swimmers were considerably lower in percent fat than previously reported data for normal untrained women of similar ages. In both groups, however, percent fat across age levels within each training group showed significant increases at approximately 40 years of age (p<.05). In the highly trained swimmers, [Vdot]O₂ max (ml·kg^–1·min^–1) decreased at a mean rate of about 7% per decade, while in the not highly trained swimmers the decline was approximately 8% per decade. It appears that the rate of decline in [Vdot]O₂ max in women with aging may be independent of training status.     

Physiological Profiles of High School Female Cross Country Runners

Abstract

Percent body fat, ratings of perceived exertion and maximal oxygen consumption during a continuous running treadmill test were obtained on 127 high school female cross country runners. These young runners (x 15.6 yrs) were running approximately 25 miles per week at the time of testing. They had an average [Vdot]O₂ max of 50.8 ml · min^-1 and an HR max of 198.0 bpm. The mean percent body fat, as determined from hydrostatic weighing, was 15.4%. The onset of metabolic acidosis was estimated to occur at 78% of [Vdot]O₂ max. A stepwise multiple regression with the 3000 meter run as the dependent variable indicated that max treadmill run time, weight relative [Vdot]O₂ max and [Vdot] max entered the equation in that order, yielding an R of 0.67. Both HR and RPE increased with work intensity, but not at equal rates. These high school female runners had higher [Vdot]O₂ max's than previously reported for this age group; however, they were considerably below these values reported for national caliber distance runners.     

Effect of Caffeine Ingestion on Cardiorespiratory Endurance in Men and Women

Abstract

The effect of caffeine ingestion on submaximal endurance performance of 15 females and 13 males was investigated. After completing a [Vdot]O ₂ max test, each subject performed two submaximal cycling tests at approximately 75% of [Vdot]O ₂ max to exhaustion. For the caffeine (C) trials, 300 mg of caffeine was added to 250 ml of decaffeinated coffee and ingested one hour prior to the exercise. The decaffeinated (D) trial involved consuming 250 ml of decaffeinated coffee an hour prior to the test. The C and D trials were administered randomly using a standard double blind design. Physiological parameters were monitored each 9, 10, and 11 minute intervals throughout each trial and averaged. As expected the [Vdot]O ₂ (L · min ^?1 ), [Vdot]E and work outputs (kgm) were significantly (p < 0.001) higher for the males than the females. All other variables, time to exhaustion, [Vdot]O ₂ (ml · kg · min ^?1 ), R, HR, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were not significantly (p > 0.05) different between the sexes for either the C or D trials. Time to exhaustion was 14.4 and 3.1% longer for the C trials for the females and males, respectively, however these increases were not significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) for any of the measured variables during successive 10 minute work intervals between the C and D trials for either sex. These results do not support the general use of caffeine in moderate amounts as an ergogenic aid for either males or females, but from a practical point it appears that caffeine may have an ergogenic effect on specific individuals.     

Alterations in Strength and Maximal Oxygen Uptake Consequent to Nautilus Circuit Weight Training

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a Nautilus circuit weight training program on muscular strength and maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O ₂ max) by comparing these effects to those produced by adhering to either a free weight (FW) strength training program or a running (R) program. Male college students who voluntarily enrolled in either a FW training class (n = 11), a Nautilus (N) circuit weight training class (n= 12), or a R conditioning class (n= 13) were subjects for this investigation. All groups participated in their respective programs 3 days per week for 10 weeks. Strength was assessed using a Cybex II isokinetic dynamometer set at an angular velocity of 60° · s ^?1 and a damping of 2. The FW group served as the control group for the assessment of [Vdot]O ₂ max changes, while the R group served as controls for the assessment of strength differences. ANCOVA revealed that the N and R groups experienced significant (p < .01) increases in [Vdot]O ₂ max expressed in L · min ^?1 (10.9 and 11.4%), ml · kg ^?1 · min ^?1 (10.8 and 11.7%), and ml · kgLBW ^?1 · min ^?1 (7.1 and 7.5%) when compared to the FW group. There were no significant differences between the N and R groups. There were no significant differences among groups in final peak torque values (after covariance), and torque at the beginning and end of the range of motion for the knee extensors, knee flexors, elbow extensors, and elbow flexors. In general, isokinetic strength values elicited by the N group compared favorably to those generated by the FW group. It was concluded that for a training period of short duration, Nautilus circuit weight training appears to be an equally effective alternative to standard free weight (strength) and aerobic (endurance) training programs for untrained individuals.     

Physiological Correlates of Female Road Racing Performance

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between female distance running performance on a 10 km road race and body composition, maximal aerobic power ([Vdot]O_{2 max} ), running economy (steady-state [Vdot]O₂ at standardized speeds), and the fractional utilization of [Vdot]O_2max at submaximal speeds (% [Vdot]O_2max ). The subjects were 14 trained and competition–experienced female runners. The subjects averaged 43.7 min on the 10 km run, 53.0 ml · kg^?1 · min^?1 on [Vdot]O_2max , and 33.9, 37.7, and 41.8 ml · kg^?1 · min^?1 for steady-state [Vdot]O₂ at three standardized running paces (177, 196, and 215 m · min^?1). The mean values for fractional utilization of aerobic capacity for these three submaximal speeds were 64.3, 71.4, and 79.3% [Vdot]O_2max , respectively. Significant (p < 0.01) relationships with performance were found for [Vdot]O_2max (r = ?0.66) and % [Vdot]O_2max at a standardized speed (r = 0.65). No significant (p > 0.05) relationships were found between running performance and either running economy or relative body fat. As with male heterogeneous groups, trained female road racing performance is significantly related to [Vdot]O_2max and % [Vdot]O_2max , but not related to body composition or running economy. It was further concluded that on a 10 km road race, trained females operate at a % [Vdot]O_2max similar to that of their trained male counterparts.     

Effect of Toe Clips during Bicycle Ergometry on [Vdot]O2 max

Abstract

Previous investigators have yielded conflicting results in testing the hypothesis that the use of toe clips during bicycle ergometry produces a higher maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O ₂ max) than testing without toe clips. Eight men, four competitive cyclists and four competitive distance runners volunteered to participate in three randomized [Vdot]O ₂ max tests: 1) a treadmill running lest, 2) a bicycle ergometer test using standard toe clips, and 3) a test on the same ergometer without toe clips. The highest mean [Vdot]O ₂ max was observed in the treadmill condition as expected. However, no statistically significant difference in mean [Vdot]O ₂ max or performance time was observed between the toe-clip and no toe-clip conditions. Based on these results, the research hypothesis was rejected and no favorable physiological effect may be attributed to the use of toe clips.     

Ventilatory Threshold,Running Economy and Distance Running Performance of Trained Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationships among ventilatory threshold T(vent), running economy and distance running performance in a group (N=9) of trained experienced male runners with comparable maximum oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O₂ max). Maximal oxygen uptake and submaximal steady state oxygen uptake were measured using open circuit spirometry during treadmill exercise. Ventilatory threshold was determined during graded treadmill exercise using non-invasive techniques, while distance running performance was assessed by the best finish time in two 10-kilometer (km) road races. The subjects averaged 33.8 minutes on the 10km runs, 68.6 ml · kg ^-1 · min ^-1 for [Vdot]O₂ max, and 48.1 ml · kg ^-1 · min ^-1 for steady state [Vdot]O₂ running at 243 meters · min ^-1. The T(vent) (first deviation from linearity of [Vdot]_E, [Vdot]CO ₂ ) occurred at an oxygen consumption of 41.9 ml · kg ^-1 · min ^-1. The relationship between running economy and performance was r = .51 (p>0.15) and the relationship between T(vent) and performance was r = .94 (p < 0.001). Applying stepwise multiple linear regression, the multiple R did not increase significantly with the addition of variables to the T(vent); however, the combination of [Vdot]O₂ max, running economy and T(vent) was determined to account for the greatest amount of total variance (89%). These data suggest that among trained and experienced runners with similar [Vdot]O₂ max, T(vent) can account for a large portion of the variance in performance during a 10km race.     

The Estimation of [Vdot]O2max from Maximal and Sub-Maximal Measurements in Males,Age 10–39

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between physiological and anthropometrical variables and 15-km time trial (TT) cycling performance time. Twenty-two competitive cyclists averaged 59.7 ml · kg^–1 · min^–1 for maximal oxygen consumption ([Vdot]O_2max), 42.8 ml · kg^–1 · min^–1 for anaerobic threshold (AT), and 23.5 min for the 15 km TT race. The relationship between [Vdot]O_2max and cycling performance time was r = – 0.68, (p < .01) while the correlation between AT and performance time was r = – 0.93, (p <.01). Applying stepwise multiple regression analysis, the two-variable model of the AT and the body circumference ratio, thigh+calf:arm+chest, was found to correlate highly with cycling performance time (r =0.966). It was concluded that the successful cyclists are characterized by the ability to consume large amounts of oxygen prior to ventilatory changes associated with the anaerobic threshold as well as a larger lower to upper body circumference ratio which may favorably decrease wind resistance while cycling.     

Effects of Aerobic Dance on Physical Work Capacity,Cardiovascular Function and Body Composition of Middle-Aged Women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of aerobic dance on physical work capacity, cardiovascular function and body composition of young middle-aged women. Maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O ₂ max), heart rate during submaximal treadmill walking, resting heart rate and blood pressure, and body composition were determined before and after a 10-week aerobic dance conditioning program in 28 women (18 experimental and 10 control), aged 25 to 44 years. During the 10-week treatment period, the experimental subjects participated in 45 min of aerobic dance at 70–85% of the heart rate reserve, 3 days · week ^–1,whereas the control group did not participate in any regular strenuous physical activity. Changes in the experimental group were significantly greater than in the control group for [Vdot]O ₂ max expressed in 1 · min ^–1 or relative to body weight or fat-free weight (5 to 7% vs. – 5 to – 8%), time on a continuous grade-incremented walking treadmill test (16% vs. 1%), heart rate during submaximal stages of the treadmill test (– 9% vs. 1%) and resting heart rate (– 8% vs. 2%). Resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure; body weight; percent fat, fat weight, and fat-free weight estimated using underwater weighing; sum of seven skinfolds; and sum of seven circumferences did not change significantly in either group. It was concluded that aerobic dance performed 30–45 min, 3 days · week ^–1 for 10 weeks significantly improves physical work capacity and cardiovascular function, but without dietary control, does not alter body composition in sedentary middle-aged women.     

Physiological Alterations in 7- to 9-Year-Old Boys following a Season of Competitive Wrestling

Abstract

Muscular and aerobic capacity changes resulting from three months of wrestling training were examined in a group of normally active 7- to 9-year-old boys (N = 23) who competed in an intramural league tournament. A nontraining group of twenty-two boys of similar age, height, and weight served as control subjects, and were studied during the same period of time. The subjects were measured for body dimensions and skinfolds, and were given measures of back lift, leg press, and arm endurance (dips and chins). They were also measured for [Vdot]E max, [Vdot]O ₂ max, and HR max employing a progressive treadmill protocol. Results of ANCOVA analyses indicated that (1) the mean improvements in [Vdot]E max (2.93 1·min ^?1 ) and in [Vdot]O ₂ max (+ 6.6 ml·kg ^?1 ·min ^?1 ) were not significantly greater than control (p > .05), nor was HR max; (2) arm endurance improved significantly over control (p < .05), as did the leg press, but the back lift was not improved significantly (p > .05); (3) no significant change occurred in height, weight, or in some of skinfolds (p > .05), but the wrestlers were less endomorphic and more ectomorphic than their control counterparts, and were judged essentially equivalent in mesomorphy. It is concluded that wrestling training in young boys improves strength, but does not improve aerobic capacity more than one would expect to see in normal children of similar age and size.     

Maximal lactate steady state in trained adolescent runners

The aims of this study were: (1) to identify the exercise intensity that corresponds to the maximal lactate steady state in adolescent endurance-trained runners; (2) to identify any differences between the sexes; and (3) to compare the maximal lactate steady state with commonly cited fixed blood lactate reference parameters. Sixteen boys and nine girls volunteered to participate in the study. They were first tested using a stepwise incremental treadmill protocol to establish the blood lactate profile and peak oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O₂). Running speeds corresponding to fixed whole blood lactate concentrations of 2.0, 2.5 and 4.0?mmol?·?l^?1 were calculated using linear interpolation. The maximal lactate steady state was determined from four separate 20-min constant-speed treadmill runs. The maximal lactate steady state was defined as the fastest running speed, to the nearest 0.5?km?·?h^?1, where the change in blood lactate concentration between 10 and 20?min was?<0.5?mmol?·?l^?1. Although the boys had to run faster than the girls to elicit the maximal lactate steady state (15.7 vs 14.3?km?·?h^?1, P?<0.01), once the data were expressed relative to percent peak [Vdot]O₂ (85 and 85%, respectively) and percent peak heart rate (92 and 94%, respectively), there were no differences between the sexes (P?>0.05). The running speed and percent peak [Vdot]O₂ at the maximal lactate steady state were not different to those corresponding to the fixed blood lactate concentrations of 2.0 and 2.5?mmol?·?l^?1 (P?>0.05), but were both lower than those at the 4.0?mmol?·?l^?1 concentration (P?<0.05). In conclusion, the maximal lactate steady state corresponded to a similar relative exercise intensity as that reported in adult athletes. The running speed, percent peak [Vdot]O₂ and percent peak heart rate at the maximal lactate steady state are approximated by the fixed blood lactate concentration of 2.5?mmol?·?l^?1 measured during an incremental treadmill test in boys and girls.     

Maximal oxygen uptake versus maximal power output in children

Abstract

Maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2max) is considered the optimal method to assess aerobic fitness. The measurement of [Vdot]O_2max, however, requires special equipment and training. Maximal exercise testing with determination of maximal power output offers a more simple approach. This study explores the relationship between [Vdot]O_2max and maximal power output in 247 children (139 boys and 108 girls) aged 7.9–11.1 years. Maximal oxygen uptake was measured by indirect calorimetry during a maximal ergometer exercise test with an initial workload of 30 W and 15 W · min^?1 increments. Maximal power output was also measured. A sample (n = 124) was used to calculate reference equations, which were then validated using another sample (n = 123). The linear reference equation for both sexes combined was: [Vdot]O_2max (ml · min^?1) = 96 + 10.6 · maximal power + 3.5 · body mass. Using this reference equation, estimated [Vdot]O_2max per unit of body mass (ml · min^?1 · kg^?1) calculated from maximal power correlated closely with the direct measurement of [Vdot]O_2max (r = 0.91, P <0.001). Bland-Altman analysis gave a mean limits of agreement of 0.2±2.9 (ml · min^?1 · kg^?1) (1 s). Our results suggest that maximal power output serves as a good surrogate measurement for [Vdot]O_2max in population studies of children aged 8–11 years.     

Physical Performance Tests in Job Selection a Model for Empirical Validation

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish the net energy cost of dribbling a soccer ball. Eight male footballers ran for 5 min on a treadmill at speeds of 9, 10.5, 12 and 13.5km ·h ^–1 while dribbling a football against a rebound box; running at each of these speeds without the ball constituted controls. Oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O ₂ ), perceived exertion (RPE) and blood lactate levels were measured and compared between the two conditions. The energy expended increased linearly with speed for both exercise modes, the mean increment of 1.24 kcal·min ^–1 caused by dribbling being independent of the speed of motion. Individual differences in efficiency of dribbling could not be explained by considering different patterns of stride characteristics. Similarly, RPE showed a constant elevation for dribbling over running at each speed, and a linear increase with speed of motion for both modes. Blood lactate increased disproportionately with speed for dribbling, onset of metabolic acidosis being attained at a lower speed for the experimental task. It was concluded that dribbling a ball does significantly increase the energy cost and perceived exertion of motion, as well as inducing disproportionate rises in blood lactate when performed at high speeds.     

Effect of Stride Length Variation on Oxygen Uptake during Level and Positive Grade Treadmill Running

Abstract

Sixteen men were studied during 6-min bouts of motorized treadmill running at 230 m · min^–1 and 0% and 4% grade to compare [Vdot]O₂ while using freely chosen stride lengths (CSL) and stride lengths approximately 8% shorter (SSL) and longer (LSL) than CSL. The study also attempted to determine whether stride length variations of these proportions altered [Vdot]O₂ differently at the two grades. CSL were greater (p<.05) at 0% than 4% with mean values of 133.5 and 131.5 cm, respectively. Two-way ANOVA (Stride x Grade) with repeated measures yielded significant F values (p<.05) for the main effects of both stride length and grade but not for interaction between the two factors. Mean [Vdot]O₂ values were 44.95 and 56.80 ml · kg¹ · min^–1 at 0% and 4% grade, respectively. The Tukey w procedure was used for comparing the main effect means across both grades for the three stride lengths. These means were 50.94, 49.88, and 51.80 ml · kg¹ · min^–1 for SSL, CSL, and LSL, respectively, with the CSL mean significantly less than the SSL and LSL means (p<.05). Stride length variations of approximately ±8% did not alter [Vdot]O₂ differently at the two grades, and although [Vdot]O₂ for SSL and LSL was not different, [Vdot]O₂ was significantly (p<.05) increased by 2.1% for SSL and 3.8% for LSL. Not all individual patterns followed the group norm, however, in that three subjects were more economical with short stride lengths and two were more economical with longer strides.     

Forthcoming events

The aims of this study were to quantify the effects of factors such as mode of exercise, body composition and training on the relationship between heart rate and physical activity energy expenditure (measured in kJ?·?min^?1) and to develop prediction equations for energy expenditure from heart rate. Regularly exercising individuals (n = 115; age 18?–?45 years, body mass 47?–?120?kg) underwent a test for maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2max test), using incremental protocols on either a cycle ergometer or treadmill; [Vdot]O_2max ranged from 27 to 81?ml?·?kg^?1?·?min^?1. The participants then completed three steady-state exercise stages on either the treadmill (10?min) or the cycle ergometer (15?min) at 35%, 62% and 80% of [Vdot]O_2max, corresponding to 57%, 77% and 90% of maximal heart rate. Heart rate and respiratory exchange ratio data were collected during each stage. A mixed-model analysis identified gender, heart rate, weight, [Vdot]_2max and age as factors that best predicted the relationship between heart rate and energy expenditure. The model (with the highest likelihood ratio) was used to estimate energy expenditure. The correlation coefficient (r) between the measured and estimated energy expenditure was 0.913. The model therefore accounted for 83.3% (R ²) of the variance in energy expenditure in this sample. Because a measure of fitness, such as [Vdot]O_2max, is not always available, a model without [Vdot]O_2max included was also fitted. The correlation coefficient between the measured energy expenditure and estimates from the mixed model without [Vdot]O_2max was 0.857. It follows that the model without a fitness measure accounted for 73.4% of the variance in energy expenditure in this sample. Based on these results, we conclude that it is possible to estimate physical activity energy expenditure from heart rate in a group of individuals with a great deal of accuracy, after adjusting for age, gender, body mass and fitness.     

Combined metabolic gas analyser and dGPS analysis of performance in cross-country skiing

The purpose of this study was to provide a more detailed analysis of performance in cross-country skiing by combining findings from a differential global positioning system (dGPS), metabolic gas measurements, speed in different sections of a ski-course and treadmill threshold data. Ten male skiers participated in a freestyle skiing field test (5.6?km), which was performed with dGPS and metabolic gas measurements. A treadmill running threshold test was also performed and the following parameters were derived: anaerobic threshold, threshold of decompensated metabolic acidosis, respiratory exchange ratio = 1, onset of blood lactate accumulation and peak oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2peak). The combined dGPS and metabolic gas measurements made detailed analysis of performance possible. The strongest correlations between the treadmill data and final skiing field test time were for [Vdot]O_2peak (l?·?min^?1), respiratory exchange ratio = 1 (l?·?min^?1) and onset of blood lactate accumulation (l?·?min^?1) (r = ?0.644 to ??0.750). However, all treadmill test data displayed stronger associations with speed in different stretches of the course than with final time, which stresses the value of a detailed analysis of performance in cross-country skiing. Mean oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O₂) in a particular stretch in relation to speed in the same stretch displayed its strongest correlation coefficients in most stretches when [Vdot]O₂ was presented in units litres per minute, rather than when [Vdot]O₂ was normalized to body mass (ml?·?kg^?1?·?min^?1 and ml?·?min^?1?·?kg^?2/3). This suggests that heavy cross-country skiers have an advantage over their lighter counterparts. In one steep uphill stretch, however, [Vdot]O₂ (ml?·?min^?1?·?kg^?2/3) displayed the strongest association with speed, suggesting that in steep uphill sections light skiers could have an advantage over heavier skiers.     

A Meta-Analysis of Studies Comparing Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Men and Women

Abstract

Since [Vdot]O₂ max (ml/minute · kg body weight) is known to be the primary determinant of work capacity in weight-bearing exercise, the quantification of sex-specific factors influencing aerobic capacity is necessary if appropriate work capacity and endurance performance expectations and standards are to be developed for men and women. Yet, due to varying procedures and sample characteristics, large discrepancies exist among studies concerning the magnitude of the sex difference in [Vdot]O₂ max. The purpose of this article is to provide an integrative review of the research comparing [Vdot]O₂ max in men and women using the meta-analytic strategy proposed by Glass (1976). An overall estimate of the magnitude of the sex effect for each of three expressions of [Vdot]O₂ max is provided. When removing the variability in aerobic capacity due to body size and body fatness, the magnitude of difference in [Vdot]O₂ max between men and women is substantially reduced. When expressed relative to fat-free weight, the [Vdot]O₂ max values of the males are, on the average, 12 to 15% higher than those of the females. Sex-specific differences in relative hemoglobin content may be responsible for a part of this remaining difference. However, a substantial portion of the sex difference in [Vdot]O₂ max (ml/minute · kg fat-free weight) is probably attributable to gender-associated differences in level of physical activity/conditioning. The ability to clearly identify the sex-related components of aerobic capacity is an objective warranting further investigation.     

The effect of constant-intensity endurance training and high-intensity interval training on aerobic and anaerobic parameters in youth

ABSTRACT

Introduction: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Constant-Intensity Endurance Training (CIET) improves peak oxygen uptake (V?O₂) similarly in adults; but in children this remains unclear, as does the influence of maturity. Methods: Thirty-seven boys formed three groups: HIIT (football; n = 14; 14.3 ± 3.1 years), CIET (distance runners; n = 12; 13.1 ± 2.5 years) and a control (CON) group (n = 11; 13.7 ± 3.2 years). Peak V?O₂ and gas exchange threshold (GET) were determined from a ramp test and anaerobic performance using a 30 m sprint pre-and-post a three-month training cycle. Results: The HIIT groups peak V?O₂ was significantly higher than the CON group pre (peak V?O₂: 2.54 ± 0.63 l·min^-1 vs 2.03 ± 0.53 l·min^-1, d = 0.88; GET: 1.41 ± 0.26 l·min^-1 vs 1.13 ± 0.29 l·min^-1, d = 1.02) and post-training (peak V?O₂: 2.63 ± 0.73 l·min^-1 vs 2.08 ± 0.64 l·min^-1, d = 0.80; GET: 1.32 ± 0.33 l·min^-1 vs 1.15 ± 0.38 l·min^-1, d = 0.48). All groups showed a similar magnitude of change during the training (p > 0.05). Conclusion: HIIT was not superior to CIET for improving aerobic or anaerobic parameters in adolescents. Secondly, pre- and post-pubertal participants demonstrated similar trainability.     

Effect of biological maturation on maximal oxygen uptake and ventilatory thresholds in soccer players: An allometric approach

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the effect of biological maturation on maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2max) and ventilatory thresholds (VT₁ and VT₂) in 110 young soccer players separated into pubescent and post-pubescent groups.. Maximal oxygen uptake and [Vdot]O₂ corresponding to VT₁ and VT₂ were expressed as absolute values, ratio standards, theoretical exponents, and experimentally observed exponents. Absolute [Vdot]O₂ (ml · min^?1) was different between groups for VT₁, VT₂, and [Vdot]O_2max. Ratio standards (ml · kg^?1 · min^?1) were not significantly different between groups for VT₁, VT₂, and [Vdot]O_2max. Theoretical exponents (ml · kg^?0.67 · min^?1 and ml · kg^?0.75 · min^?1) were not properly adjusted for the body mass effects on VT₁, VT₂, and [Vdot]O_2max. When the data were correctly adjusted using experimentally observed exponents, VT₁ (ml · kg^?0.94 · min^?1) and VT₂ (ml · kg^?0.95 · min^?1) were not different between groups. The experimentally observed exponent for [Vdot]O_2max (ml · kg^?0.90 · min^?1) was different between groups (P = 0.048); however, this difference could not be attributed to biological maturation. In conclusion, biological maturation had no effect on VT₁, VT₂ or [Vdot]O_2max when the effect of body mass was adjusted by experimentally observed exponents. Thus, when evaluating the physiological performance of young soccer players, allometric scaling needs to be taken into account instead of using theoretical approaches.     

Specificity of a Maximal Step Exercise Test

To adhere to the principle of “exercise specificity” exercise testing should be completed using the same physical activity that is performed during exercise training. The present study was designed to assess whether aerobic step exercisers have a greater maximal oxygen consumption (max VO₂) when tested using an activity specific, maximal step exercise test (SET; arms and legs) versus a maximal running test (legs only). Female aerobic step exercisers (N=18; 20.7 ± 1.5 years) performed three maximal graded exercise tests (GXTs): 2 SETs; 1 treadmill test (TMT). The SET consisted of six 3-min progressive stages of alternate lead, basic step, basic step with biceps curls, knee raise with pull-down, repeater knee with pull-down, lateral lunge with pull-down, and side squat with shoulder presses. Stepping rate was 32 steps· min^?1 on an 8-in (20.32 cm) step for stages 1–3, and a 10-in (25.4 cm) step for stages 4–6. Submaximal and maximal heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (VO₂) were recorded at the end of each stage. Test–retest reliability for the first five stages of the SET ranged from .91 to .97 for HR, and from .84 to .96 for VO₂. Maximal HR was significantly greater (p =.0001) for the SET (200 ± 6.2 beats·min^?1) as compared to the TMT (193 ± 7.9 beats·min^?1). No significant difference was found for max VO₂ (42.9 ± 8.5, 41.2 ± 5.9 ml·kg^?1·min^?1, p =.14). The SET was a valid and reliable protocol for assessing responses of these aerobic step exercisers; however, max VO₂ from a TMT did not differ significantly from the SET. Conversely, max HR obtained from the criterion TMT was 7 beats·min^?1 lower than from the SET. If a training HR for step exercise (arms and legs exercise) is prescribed based on the max HR from treadmill exercise (legs only), then the training HR should be calculated from a TMT max HR that has been increased by 7 beats·min^?1 to obtain an intensity of step exercise comparable to that of running.