Int J Sports Med [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Physical Activity is Differently Associated with Quality of Life and Fatigue Across the Phases of Cancer Survivorship.
Lopes M, Souza Cassaroti VS, Cella PS … +9 more , Palma LP, Dalcin VS, de Moura MO, Prianti DE, Borges MBDS, Godinho LC, Terziotti F, Herrera ACDSA, Deminice R
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41183528 · Publisher ↗
This study explored associations between reported levels of physical activity, cancer-associated fatigue, and quality of life across cancer survivorship phases. Using a cross-sectional design, 149 cancer patients (100 fe...
This study explored associations between reported levels of physical activity, cancer-associated fatigue, and quality of life across cancer survivorship phases. Using a cross-sectional design, 149 cancer patients (100 females, 49 males; mean age 56.2±12.7 yr) with various cancer types were assessed for physical activity levels. Participants were categorized based on whether they met the World Health Organization's recommendation of 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Quality of life and fatigue were measured using the QLQ C-30 and QLQ-FA12 questionnaires, respectively. Subanalyses were conducted across pretreatment, active treatment, and posttreatment phases. Meeting the World Health Organization's physical activity recommendation was associated with enhanced quality of life in 10 of 15 domains and lower fatigue scores in 3 of 5 domains. Cancer survivors who met physical activity recommendations had a better quality of life during active and posttreatment phases, but not pretreatment. Moreover, physical activity's effects reduced cancer-related fatigue during active oncology treatment but not during pre- or posttreatment. In conclusion, physical activity positively impacts quality of life and cancer-associated fatigue differently across phases of cancer survivorship. Health professionals should encourage cancer patients-especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy-to achieve 150 minutes of physical activity per week, which can be associated with a higher quality of life and reduced cancer-related fatigue.
The Effects of Different Warm-Up Exercises on Throwing Velocity in Handball Players.
Zecchin A, Soto-García D, Fernandez-Fernandez J … +3 more , Santos L, Foster C, Boullosa D
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41151771 · Publisher ↗
We investigated the effects of plyometric and isometric warm-up exercises on handball throwing velocity and verified the relationships between strength measures and throwing velocity. Sixteen U-22 elite male handball pla...
We investigated the effects of plyometric and isometric warm-up exercises on handball throwing velocity and verified the relationships between strength measures and throwing velocity. Sixteen U-22 elite male handball players (age: 19.8±0.9 y and handball training experience: 10.5±1.0 y) of the Spanish University Championship-winning team participated in this study. Players were assessed for maximum isometric shoulder internal rotation strength (kg), and the loads (kg) associated with 1 m/s in half squat and bench press exercises. Subsequently, they performed a standardized warm-up plus isometric vs. plyometric vs. control exercises in a randomized order followed by the evaluation of ball throwing velocity. There were no significant differences in throwing velocity following any condition. Moderate significant correlations were observed between throwing velocity and the load associated with 1 m/s in the half squat under all conditions (=0.56-0.61 and <0.05) and in the bench press after plyometric (=0.50 and =0.047). The control condition which included submaximal running resulted in similar throwing velocity to the experimental conditions including strength exercises. The identified associations between the loads associated with 1 m/s in the half squat and bench press exercises highlighted the important role of muscle power in handball players' throwing ability.
Relationship between Core Muscle Oxygen Saturation and Gross Efficiency during Cycling.
Osaki R, Takahashi H
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41130272 · Publisher ↗
This study examined the muscle oxygen saturation profiles of core and thigh muscles during cycling and investigated their relationship with gross efficiency across various cycling intensities. Eleven male cyclists and tr...
This study examined the muscle oxygen saturation profiles of core and thigh muscles during cycling and investigated their relationship with gross efficiency across various cycling intensities. Eleven male cyclists and triathletes performed a graded exercise test using a cycle ergometer. Muscle oxygen saturation was measured in the vastus lateralis, biceps femoris long head, erector spinae, and external oblique muscles at each intensity level, along with gross efficiency. The percentage of peak power output at which muscle oxygen saturation began to decrease significantly from the initial load was 60% in the vastus lateralis, 80% in the biceps femoris long head, and 70% in both the erector spinae and external oblique muscles (<0.05 or <0.01). In contrast, no significant differences in deoxygenation between muscles were observed at intensities between 60% and 90% of peak power output. At 80% of peak power output, a significant positive correlation was found between gross efficiency and oxygen saturation in the erector spinae (=0.745, <0.01). In conclusion, the oxygen saturation profile of core muscles are comparable to those of thigh muscles, and oxygen saturation in the erector spinae may contribute to gross efficiency during high-intensity cycling.
Kinematic Comparison of Throw-Down Mechanics Between Baseball and Softball Catchers.
Zappa R, Fava A, Lozowski B … +2 more , Kohler E, Oliver GD
Int J Sports Med · 2025 Oct · PMID 41125084 · Publisher ↗
Based on previous research, catchers' throwing mechanics between baseball and softball tend to be viewed as comparable despite the inherent differences in playing conditions. When compared at key throwing timepoints, dif...
Based on previous research, catchers' throwing mechanics between baseball and softball tend to be viewed as comparable despite the inherent differences in playing conditions. When compared at key throwing timepoints, differences in pelvis and trunk kinematics were observed between sports. However, it is uncertain whether throwing-arm mechanics would differ throughout the throw between these athletic populations. Therefore, this study aimed to compare catchers' throwing mechanics between sports using continuous statistical analyses. A total of 20 catchers (baseball: =10 and softball: =10) participated in this study. Statistical parametric independent samples -tests (=0.05) were used to temporally compare proximal and throwing-arm kinematics from foot contact (0%) to maximum shoulder internal rotation (100%) between sports. Differences found included elbow flexion (=0.008; 0-13 and 99-100%), shoulder rotation (<0.001; 23-53%), elevation (<0.001; 0-95%) and the plane of elevation (<0.001; 0-100%), pelvis and trunk lateral flexion (pelvis: =0.027; 0-30% and trunk: <0.001; 23-100%) and rotation (pelvis: =0.036; 4-21% and trunk: =0.036; 84-100%), and trunk flexion (<0.001; 34-100%). While most of the observed differences were brief, notable differences in the trunk flexion, trunk lateral flexion, shoulder elevation, and plane of elevation were apparent for much of the throwing motion. Time-series analyses identified distinct mechanics involved in baseball and softball throw downs, lending support for sport-specific biomechanical assessments on catchers.
A New Approach to Assess Canoe Performance through Functional Electromechanical Dynamometry.
Álvarez-Yates T, Cuba-Dorado A, Serrano-Gómez V … +3 more , Vila-Suárez H, Nakamura FY, García-García O
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41115424 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive capacity of functional electromechanical dynamometry for sprint canoe performance. Twenty-one world-class sprint canoeists underwent two functional electromechanical d...
The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive capacity of functional electromechanical dynamometry for sprint canoe performance. Twenty-one world-class sprint canoeists underwent two functional electromechanical dynamometry assessments (isometric and incremental load) in the sprint canoe-specific kneeling position. Race performance was assessed via official C1 500-m race times. Significant negative correlations were observed between 500-m race times and both the mean force (=-0.72; =0.001) and the peak force (=-0.71; =0.001) measured through the isometric dynamometric test. In the incremental test, a strong negative correlation was found between the race time and the number of strokes (Nreps; =-0.85; =0.001), as well as the absolute peak force (=-0.80; =0.001). These relationships remained significant when force values were adjusted for body mass. The strongest predictive model (R =0.73) included the number of strokes from the incremental load test (C1 500-m race time=170.30-3.29 Nreps). These findings support the use of functional electromechanical dynamometry as a valid and sport-specific tool for assessing neuromuscular performance in elite sprint canoeists.
Effect of Lumbar Spine Motion on Psoas Major Length during Running at Different Speeds.
Tominaga T, Sado N
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41109212 · Publisher ↗
Among the paraspinal muscles, the psoas major is essential for leg swing during running. As its sarcomere length indicates a lower force-generating capacity at a lengthened position, greater hip extension at higher speed...
Among the paraspinal muscles, the psoas major is essential for leg swing during running. As its sarcomere length indicates a lower force-generating capacity at a lengthened position, greater hip extension at higher speeds may limit its force. Meanwhile, the lumbar spine becomes more lordotic and tilts anteriorly as running speed increases, which may shorten the psoas major. However, lumbar spine motion has been neglected when estimating psoas major length. We examined the effect of lumbar spine motion on psoas major length, comparing models with (MOVING) and without (FIXED) considering lumbar spine motion. Psoas major length was estimated during treadmill running at four different speeds (4.0-8.5 m/s). The main effect of the running speed on psoas major length was not significant in MOVING (length normalised to standing: from 102.1±1.7 to 102.3±2.0%), whereas it was significant in FIXED (from 102.2±0.8 to 104.2±0.9%). A strong linear relationship between hip angle and psoas major length was found in FIXED ( >0.92), but was compromised in MOVING ( =0.74±0.17). Lumbar spine motion alters psoas major dynamics and prevents psoas major elongation at higher speeds. This may facilitate rapid leg swing by preserving the force-generating capacity of the psoas major.
Total Genotype Score Relates to Playing Time and Starter Role in Football: a Pilot Study.
Varillas-Delgado D, Franco-Andrés A, González-García J
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41082915 · Publisher ↗
The aims of this research were to identify the relationships between the total genotype score and the total competition time as well as the total and relative distances covered during competition at different speed thres...
The aims of this research were to identify the relationships between the total genotype score and the total competition time as well as the total and relative distances covered during competition at different speed thresholds and to examine the probability of being a starter or a non-starter based on the total genotype score. A prospective pilot study was conducted with 34 professional male football players competing in the Spanish second division across three consecutive seasons. DNA samples were genotyped for six muscle performance-related polymorphisms, and the total genotype score values were calculated. The total competition time and competition distances at different speed thresholds were evaluated. A total genotype score threshold of 75.0 a.u. discriminated starters with an area under the curve of 0.689. Players with higher total genotype scores (total genotype scores: >75.0) accumulated more matches played (=0.002), more matches played as starters (=0.009), greater playing time (=0.009), and higher total distances covered (=0.009). Players above this threshold were five times more likely to be starters (odds ratio=5.00, 95% confidence interval: 1.31-19.07, and =0.030). The total genotype score was related to the number of matches played (β=1.088 and =0.006), matches as starters (β=1.087 and =0.004), playing time (β=28.1 and =0.018), and distances covered during the seasons (β=3116 and =0.01). Genetic profiling was associated with starter status. Integrating genetic and global positioning system data provided a novel approach for player development and talent identification in elite sports.
Estimation of Runners' Lactate Threshold Heart Rate and Speed by Heart Rate Variability.
Lu C, Lu S, Wu Y … +3 more , Xing Q, Pan B, Shen Y
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41082914 · Publisher ↗
Accurate measurement of training intensity is crucial for optimizing endurance running performance. Lactate threshold heart rate and lactate threshold speed are commonly used but require invasive, costly methods. Heart r...
Accurate measurement of training intensity is crucial for optimizing endurance running performance. Lactate threshold heart rate and lactate threshold speed are commonly used but require invasive, costly methods. Heart rate variability metrics offer a non-invasive alternative by assessing autonomic nervous system activity. This study evaluated the validity of various heart rate variability metrics in predicting the lactate threshold heart rate and lactate threshold speed during indoor and outdoor graded exercise tests in 19 recreational runners. Heart rate variability thresholds were determined using SD1, SD2, detrended fluctuation analysis scaling exponent for short-term fluctuations, detrended fluctuation analysis scaling exponent for long-term fluctuations, standard deviation of NN intervals, and root mean square of successive RR intervals via the Dmax method, and are referred to as HRVT to HRVT. Indoor graded exercise test results showed that heart rate at heart rate variability threshold often underestimated the lactate threshold heart rate, with all heart rate variability thresholds, except speed at heart rate variability threshold (detrended fluctuation analysis scaling exponent for long-term fluctuations, =0.06), showing significant differences from lactate threshold. Moderate correlations were observed for HRVT (standard deviation of NN intervals, =0.66), HRVT (SD2, =0.56), and HRVT (detrended fluctuation analysis scaling exponent for short-term fluctuations, =0.70). Outdoor graded exercise tests showed no significant differences between most heart rate variability thresholds and lactate threshold, except HRVT (root mean square of successive RR intervals, =0.03). Speed at heart rate variability threshold demonstrated moderate correlations (=0.54-0.7) with the lactate threshold speed. While the heart rate variability threshold and lactate threshold may reflect different physiological thresholds, heart rate variability thresholds, particularly those based on detrended fluctuation analysis scaling exponent for long-term fluctuations, showed promise as non-invasive predictors of lactate threshold in recreational runners.
Effects of Myofascial Exercises on Instep Kick Biomechanics and Myofascial Elasticity.
Deniz V, Isik A, Kılcı A … +1 more , Kesilmis I
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 41082913 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to investigate the effects of an anterior superficial myofascial chain strengthening program on maximum ball speed, myofascial elasticity, muscle activation, and shank kinematics in young soccer players....
This study aimed to investigate the effects of an anterior superficial myofascial chain strengthening program on maximum ball speed, myofascial elasticity, muscle activation, and shank kinematics in young soccer players. A total of 32 licensed soccer players, aged 13-14 years, were recruited and randomly assigned to either an exercise group or a control group. Participants in the exercise group underwent an 8-week anterior superficial myofascial chain strengthening program consisting of three progressive phases. At baseline and after the 8-week intervention, the maximum ball speed during the instep kick was measured using a radar gun; muscle activation was assessed via surface electromyography; and shank rotational velocity and acceleration were recorded using an inertial measurement unit. Myofascial elasticity was evaluated using a myotonometer. Compared to the control group, the exercise group demonstrated significant improvements in the maximum ball speed, muscle activation, and myofascial elasticity. However, no significant changes were observed in shank rotational velocities or accelerations. Correlation analysis revealed that changes in maximum ball speed were significantly associated with alterations in muscle activation and myofascial elasticity. The ASMC strengthening program increases the maximum ball velocity during the instep kick in young soccer players by improving muscle activation and myofascial elasticity.
Correction: Does Breathing Every Two Cycles Reduce the Breaststroke Energy Cost?
Alves MN, Monteiro AS, Fernandes RJ … +2 more , Barbosa TM, Vilas Boas JP
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 41072465 · Publisher ↗
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Caffeine supplementation for soccer: A review of strengths, limitations and knowledge gaps.
Tallis J, Duncan M, Richardson D … +2 more , Clarke N, Guimarães-Ferreira L
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 40992426 · Publisher ↗
Caffeine is a well-established ergogenic aid with a wealth of evidence demonstrating beneficial effects for physical performance, cognitive function and sport-specific skills. Intuitively, it may be considered that such...
Caffeine is a well-established ergogenic aid with a wealth of evidence demonstrating beneficial effects for physical performance, cognitive function and sport-specific skills. Intuitively, it may be considered that such effects may translate to improved soccer specific performance, however, evidence examining the effects of caffeine on the interacting demands of soccer match play is sparse. Given that caffeine supplementation is highly prevalent in professional soccer, and in a number of cases practices adopted lack supporting evidence, this review evaluates the current state of the knowledge regarding the ergogenic potential of acute caffeine consumption specifically for soccer performance. Furthermore, this review identifies knowledge gaps to guide future research, and whilst considering the unique environmental constraints, uses the available evidence to develop practical guidelines for safe and effective use.
Unilateral Resistance Training Can Be Tailored Using Lifting Velocity in Breast Cancer Patients.
Franco-López F, Hernández-Belmonte A, García-Segura AM … +3 more , Martínez-Cava A, Pallarés JG, Courel-Ibañez J
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 40983095 · Publisher ↗
We aimed to study the feasibility of velocity-based training (VBT) to individualize load and velocity loss (VL) during unilateral bench press (UBP) in breast cancer survivors, as well as to analyze possible asymmetries b...
We aimed to study the feasibility of velocity-based training (VBT) to individualize load and velocity loss (VL) during unilateral bench press (UBP) in breast cancer survivors, as well as to analyze possible asymmetries between their operated and non-operated limbs. Twelve post-surgical breast cancer survivors performed progressive UBP assessments with each arm up to one-repetition maximum (1RM) to determine individual load-velocity profiles. Mean propulsive velocity and mean velocity were modelled against%1RM using second-order polynomial regressions. In separate sessions, participants performed two sets per arm at 60-80% 1RM until reaching 40% VL. Repetition counts were compared between limbs. Strong associations were observed between velocity metrics and%1RM on both the operated and non-operated sides ( ≥0.92). Differences in velocity at matched relative loads were trivial (≤ 0.01 m/s, ≥0.448). The number of repetitions performed until reaching the VL threshold did not significantly differ between limbs (≤ 3 repetitions, ≥0.072). VBT is a feasible and effective method for individualized load and volume prescription during unilateral resistance training in breast cancer survivors. Load-velocity profiles and fatigue responses were symmetrical between operated and non-operated limbs, supporting the integration of VBT into rehabilitation and return-to-function programs in this population.
Predicting Running-Related Injuries from Functional, Kinetic and Kinematic Data.
Loh RBC, Pan JW, Iskandar MNS … +1 more , Kong PW
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 40975068 · Publisher ↗
The literature has identified inconsistent biomechanical risk factors for running-related injuries but lacks investigations on interactions between biomechanics and other risk factors. This prospective cohort study aimed...
The literature has identified inconsistent biomechanical risk factors for running-related injuries but lacks investigations on interactions between biomechanics and other risk factors. This prospective cohort study aimed to develop and compare prediction models of various levels of complexity to predict running-related injuries over 12 months in recreational runners. The seven-item functional movement screen test was administered at baseline for 83 participants. Running biomechanics were evaluated using clinically friendly tools, including wearable in-shoe force sensors to measure vertical ground reaction forces and 2D video-based kinematic analysis of lower extremities. The participants were subsequently monitored over a 12-month follow-up period to track whether they sustained running-related injuries. Differences between the injured (=26) and non-injured (=55) groups were examined using the Mann-Whitney -test. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify significant indicators for running-related injuries, with six models developed involving different sets of variables. Neither simple (involving one variable) nor complex models (including multiple variables) were statistically significant (-values ranged from 0.106 to 0.972). In conclusion, prediction models developed using variables obtained from accessible tools are unable to accurately predict future running-related injuries regardless of model complexity. Researchers and practitioners should avoid over-reliance on simple measures for screening injury risks.
Gut Microbiota and Exercise: A Systematic Review of Interventions and Evidence Limitations.
Gaskell SK, Martinez I, Costa RJS
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 40967590 · Publisher ↗
This systematic literature review assessed whether nutritional supplement, dietary and exercise interventions influence gut microbiota and subsequent exercise performance. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systemat...
This systematic literature review assessed whether nutritional supplement, dietary and exercise interventions influence gut microbiota and subsequent exercise performance. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across five databases (Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science and Scopus) up to February 2025. Included studies involved healthy, active adults undergoing nutrient supplementation, dietary and/or exercise interventions with a control or placebo comparator. Outcomes included faecal bacterial composition (α-diversity, relative abundance), short-chain fatty acids, in adjunct with exercise performance (i.e., time-trial, time to exhaustion, maximal strength). Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a descriptive synthesis was performed. Changes in faecal microbiota diversity and composition were highly variable and largely minimal. Short-chain fatty acid outcomes were infrequently assessed; only one study reported a significant increase in faecal acetate concentration following yoghurt supplementation containing subsp. BL-99. Only seven studies examined the relationship between changes in faecal bacterial profile and performance outcomes, with limited or inconclusive findings. No consistent performance benefits were observed in relation to microbiota changes. Risk of bias and methodological limitations were common, including variation in interventions, outcome measures and microbiota analysis methods. Taken together, the current evidence base remains too limited and heterogeneous to draw firm conclusions about the efficacy of microbiota-targeted interventions for enhancing exercise performance in healthy, active adults. Future studies employing standardised methods, mechanistic outcome measures and longitudinal designs may help clarify the potential of microbiota modulation as a performance-enhancing strategy.
Muscle Volume Gain Following 20 Training Sessions on an Eccentric Arm-Crank Ergometer.
Pfrunder L, Vallesi V, Hertig-Godeschalk A … +4 more , Zito GA, Verma RK, Perret C, Ammann F
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Feb · PMID 40967585 · Publisher ↗
Eccentric resistance training is a promising strategy for achieving physiological benefits at lower cardiovascular and metabolic costs compared to traditional concentric training. Whereas lower-body eccentric training ha...
Eccentric resistance training is a promising strategy for achieving physiological benefits at lower cardiovascular and metabolic costs compared to traditional concentric training. Whereas lower-body eccentric training has been studied extensively, only little is known regarding upper-body eccentric strength training. This study assessed the impact of an eccentric arm-crank training on arm muscle volume. A total of 20 eccentric arm-crank training sessions were completed over a maximum of 12 weeks (2-3 trainings/wk). A training progression from 20 to 50% of the individual peak power and a duration from 8 to 14 minutes was applied. Before ("pretest") and after the training intervention phase ("posttest"), volume measurements using magnetic resonance imaging and circumference measurements of the upper arm were performed. Differences between pretest and posttest measurements were evaluated. Twelve healthy and physically active participants (median [Q1-Q3] age 28 [27-30] yr, nine females, three males) were included in the analysis. Relative muscle volume (+5.7%, =0.002) and arm circumference (+3.2%, =0.003) increased after the training intervention. Twenty eccentric arm-crank training sessions increased the muscle volume of the upper arm. Because eccentric training is associated with lower cardiovascular and metabolic demands, it is an attractive approach to improve upper-body strength. This training approach is especially interesting for individuals who rely on their upper body for daily activities, including wheelchair users. In the next step, the training protocol could be evaluated in this population across both rehabilitation and athletic settings.
Strength as a Predictor of Aerobic Power in Competitive Cyclists: National Team Insights.
Javaloyes A, Sánchez-Muñoz C, Salas-Montoro JA … +3 more , Lillo-Bevia JR, Moya-Ramón M, Mateo-March M
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 40957605 · Publisher ↗
Maximal aerobic power and time-to-exhaustion at maximal aerobic power are critical for cycling performance, yet the role of maximal lower-body strength in enhancing these metrics across sex, category, and discipline in c...
Maximal aerobic power and time-to-exhaustion at maximal aerobic power are critical for cycling performance, yet the role of maximal lower-body strength in enhancing these metrics across sex, category, and discipline in cyclists remains underexplored. This study investigated the relationships between 1RM, maximal aerobic power, and time-to-exhaustion at maximal aerobic power in 69 high-level and professional cyclists from the same national team, stratified by sex, category, and discipline. Cyclists underwent a 2-day protocol to assess maximal aerobic power via a graded exercise test, time-to-exhaustion at maximal aerobic power, and 1RM via a velocity-based parallel back squat test. Spearman correlations, mixed models, generalized additive models, structural equation modeling, and cluster analysis examined strength-performance relationships, adjusted for covariates. 1RM strongly predicted maximal aerobic power (=0.73, =0.86, <0.001; 2.47 W increase per kg) and relative 1RM predicted maximal aerobic power relative to body mass nonlinearly (=0.58, =0.84, <0.001). Time-to-exhaustion showed no significant strength association (>0.05). Women exhibited lower maximal aerobic power (-71.67 W, <0.001), mountain bike cyclists showed longer time-to-exhaustion (+0.61 standard deviation, =0.049), and elite cyclists had higher maximal aerobic power (+21.51 W, =0.030), reflecting physiological and discipline-specific differences. Clusters highlighted strength-power distinctions. These findings demonstrate that maximal strength is associated with maximal aerobic power but not time-to-exhaustion, with associations varying according to sex, discipline, and category.
Exercise-Induced Epigenetic Modifications: Implications for Healthy Aging.
Yang Q, Hu Y, Zhang B … +1 more , Hong W
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 40957604 · Publisher ↗
Aging is a complex biological process driven by the dynamic interplay among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Advances in epigenetics have significantly deepened our understanding of the molecular mechanisms...
Aging is a complex biological process driven by the dynamic interplay among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Advances in epigenetics have significantly deepened our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying aging, underscoring the critical roles of reversible modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA regulation. Emerging evidence suggests that exercise is a potent modulator of these epigenetic processes, capable of reshaping the epigenetic landscape to restore cellular homeostasis, modulate gene expression, and enhance physiological resilience. This review systematically synthesizes current knowledge on how exercise modulates epigenetic mechanisms implicated in aging and delineates the distinct epigenetic adaptations induced by variations in exercise modality, intensity, and duration. By integrating these molecular insights, this review provides a comprehensive mechanistic framework linking exercise-induced epigenetic remodeling to healthy aging, and underscores exercise as a promising intervention to counteract aging-related functional decline and disease progression.
Melatonin Attenuates Oxidative Stress After an Exercise-induced Skeletal Muscle Damage.
Pejon TMM, De Paiva FG, Infante NA … +3 more , Cornachione AS, Monteiro DA, Beck WR
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 40930248 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated whether, 24 hours after the exercise-induced muscle damage protocol (EIMDP), melatonin administration performed 30 minutes prior to the protocol exhibited responses about inflammatory and redox st...
This study investigated whether, 24 hours after the exercise-induced muscle damage protocol (EIMDP), melatonin administration performed 30 minutes prior to the protocol exhibited responses about inflammatory and redox status. Control (CG), exercised (EG), and exercised+melatonin (EMG) groups were submitted to the incremental test through swimming exercise to determine the intensity of the maximal aerobic capacity (iMAC). Melatonin (10 mg kg) was administered, and after 30 min, the EIMDP was induced through swimming exercise (10 sets of 1 min with 30-s interval at 120% of iMAC, followed by 20 minutes continuous exercise at 100% of iMAC). The animals were euthanized 24 hours after the EIMDP. No effect on superoxide dismutase but lower activities (<0.05) of glutathione -transferase for EMG in relation to EG and of catalase for EMG in relation to CG were observed. EMG showed lower (<0.05) carbonylated protein and lipid peroxidation in relation to EG and CG, respectively. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) demonstrated higher connective tissue for EG in relation to EMG. Integrated Biomarker Responses version 2 attested the melatonin capacity in reducing antioxidant enzyme activity and muscle oxidative damage. This study demonstrated the protective role of melatonin in reducing muscle oxidative stress caused after 24 hours of the EIMDP.
Match and Training Injuries Sustained by Professional Male Rugby Union Players in Scotland.
Bailey SJ, Martindale R, Engebretsen L … +2 more , Robson JP, Palmer D
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 40921166 · Publisher ↗
Rugby union ('rugby') is a full-contact sport, with previous studies across the globe reporting a high incidence of injury. However, no injury surveillance study of professional male players in Scotland exists in contemp...
Rugby union ('rugby') is a full-contact sport, with previous studies across the globe reporting a high incidence of injury. However, no injury surveillance study of professional male players in Scotland exists in contemporary literature. The current study therefore aimed to describe the incidence, severity, burden and nature of match and training injuries sustained by male professional club rugby players in Scotland. A prospective cohort study of injuries sustained during matches and training across the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons was undertaken, with injury and exposure definitions in line with the international consensus statements. Injury incidence was 136.2/1,000 player match hours and 4.1/1,000 player training hours, the median injury severity was 7.0 days (match) and 7.5 days (training) and injury burden was 2,887.0/1,000 player match hours and 102.3/1,000 player training hours. Concussion (match) and posterior thigh muscle injuries (training) were the most common specific diagnoses. Injury incidence in this population was higher than reported elsewhere in previous studies. However, high incidences of tackle injuries and concussion injuries agree with previous literature, reinforcing the need for mitigation strategies targeting these areas.
Bilateral Coordination is Improved at 10-km Race Speed in Trained Runners.
Padulo J, Doria C, Scurati R … +4 more , Antiglio A, Odinot M, Esposito F, Peyré-Tartaruga LA
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jan · PMID 40897324 · Publisher ↗
In the last decades, gait variability (GV) has provided new insight into motor control. No study, though, quantified the GV together with bilateral symmetry at different running intensities in runners. For this aim, 16 m...
In the last decades, gait variability (GV) has provided new insight into motor control. No study, though, quantified the GV together with bilateral symmetry at different running intensities in runners. For this aim, 16 male runners (35±6 y), after a simulated 10-km time trial (average speed, TT), performed randomly three 15-minute running bouts at TT running speed, 10% slower, and 10% faster than TT. Metabolic, perceptive, and spatiotemporal parameters with phase coordination index (PCI) were collected across all trials. The TT was 14.16±1.65 km·h, rating of perceived exertion of 8.94±0.36 a.u. and 95.25±5.83% of the maximum heart rate. The PCI was lower at TT speed than at other speeds (=0.002). The energy cost of running was higher at slower speeds in comparison to TT speed and higher speed conditions (=0.029 and =0.017, respectively). The ratings of perceived exertion, heart rate, oxygen consumption, flight time, and stride length increased according to the speed (<0.05). The finding that the PCI is better at 10-km race speed suggests that improved ability to modulate the right-left stepping control is related to an energetic optimization process impacting positively the talent development and performance in trained runners. Although the metabolic cost estimates are grounded in a robust theoretical framework, these findings necessitate further empirical verification.
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