J Strength Cond Res [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The Role of Maximal-, Explosive-, and Reactive-Strength on the Magnitude of Adaptation to Sprint Training in Elite Female Gaelic Football.
Hughes W, Healy R, Lyons M … +3 more , Higginbotham C, Lane A, Beattie K
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42139557 · Publisher ↗
Hughes, W, Healy, R, Lyons, M, Higginbotham, C, Lane, A, and Beattie, K. The role of maximal-, explosive-, and reactive-strength on the magnitude of adaptation to sprint training in elite female Gaelic football. J Streng...
Hughes, W, Healy, R, Lyons, M, Higginbotham, C, Lane, A, and Beattie, K. The role of maximal-, explosive-, and reactive-strength on the magnitude of adaptation to sprint training in elite female Gaelic football. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-It has been established that maximal-, explosive-, and reactive-strength play an important role in the development of speed. However, it is unclear whether stronger individuals, who have already gained the superior neuromuscular adaptations from strength training, will adapt to a sprint training program to a greater extent than weaker individuals. The aim of this study was to explore the role of strength on the magnitude of sprint adaptations in elite female Gaelic football players. It was hypothesized that higher levels of maximal-, explosive-, and reactive-strength would be positively related to higher magnitudes of adaptation after an 8-week sprint training program. Eighteen elite female Gaelic football players (age: 25.3 ± 6.3 years; height: 1.67 ± 0.06 m; mass: 65.3 ± 7.7 kg) participated in this study. The physical strength characteristics (isometric midthigh pull, countermovement jump, and 10-5 repeat jump test) and sprint performance (0-5, 0-10, 0-20, 0-25, 0-30, and 0-35 m) were assessed for all subjects before and after the training period. All subjects completed the same sprint training program twice per week for 8 weeks which focused on the development of maximum velocity (day 1) and acceleration (day 2), with a total sprint volume of 2,240 m. Paired samples t test revealed significant small to large improvements in performance across all sprint distances and maximum velocity (except for 0-20 m), with effect sizes ranging from 0.49 to 0.85 (p < 0.05). A linear regression demonstrated that only the reactive strength index could significantly predict changes in sprint performance for the 35-m sprint distance (p = 0.042, R2 = 0.212). There were no significant associations between the maximal- and explosive-strength and any of the sprint distances. The findings of this study indicate that higher initial levels of reactive-strength were significantly associated with the improvements in sprint performance over 0-35 m, accounting for 21.2% of the variability. This suggests that enhancing reactive-strength could be a key focus for training programs aiming to improve sprint performance in elite female Gaelic football players.
Influence of Physical Attributes on Fast-Rope Task Outcome in U.S. Air Force Special Operations Training.
Mata JD, Patrick AL, Smith TM … +3 more , Pollock TR, Greene SB, Butler CR
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jul · PMID 42139556 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
U14 Players Selected Into a Gaelic Football Development Program Are More Mature, Bigger, Faster, and More Powerful than Their Nonselected Peers.
Kyles A, Oliver JL, Lloyd RS … +3 more , Pedley J, Cahill MJ, Lacey K
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jul · PMID 42139553 · Publisher ↗
Kyles, A, Oliver, JL, Lloyd, RS, Pedley, J, Cahill, MJ, and Lacey, K. U14 players selected into a Gaelic football development program are more mature, bigger, faster, and more powerful than their nonselected peers. J Str...
Kyles, A, Oliver, JL, Lloyd, RS, Pedley, J, Cahill, MJ, and Lacey, K. U14 players selected into a Gaelic football development program are more mature, bigger, faster, and more powerful than their nonselected peers. J Strength Cond Res 40(7): e684-e691, 2026-Selection decisions for academy sporting systems are often made when players are at a young age and still physically developing. The purpose of this study was to investigate how maturity, size, and physical performance are associated with, and could predict, selection into an U14 male Gaelic football academy. Eighty-three U14 male Gaelic footballers were assessed for maturity and anthropometrics (height, body mass), jump performance (countermovement jump, standing broad jump [SBJ], jump, drop jump [DJ]), speed (10 and 30 m sprint times), and linear repeated sprint ability before being selected ( n = 53) or nonselected ( n = 30) into a county Gaelic football academy. There was no difference in age between groups (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27, p > 0.05), but selected players were significantly more mature (OR = 2.47, p < 0.01), taller (OR = 2.24, p < 0.01), and heavier (OR = 1.89, p < 0.05) than nonselected players. When categorized into bands, early maturing players were 10 times more likely to be selected than their late maturing peers (OR = 10.21, p = 0.01). Furthermore, selected players were superior across physical performance measures, notably sprinting faster, jumping higher and further, and producing more power than their nonselected peers (range in OR = 2.10-3.21, all p < 0.05). Collectively, measures of height, 10 and 30 m sprint time, repeated sprint time, SBJ, and DJ contact time significantly differentiated between groups (OR = 6.52) with excellent predictive ability (area under curve = 0.90). Boys selected into an U14 Gaelic football academy were bigger and physically fitter than their nonselected peers. Youth practitioners currently place importance on physical fitness qualities; however, given superior size and fitness at U14 age is likely to be largely influenced by maturity status, maturity should be accounted for when making selection decisions into talent development pathways.
No Effect of Menstrual Cycle Phase on Wingate Power Outputs or Perceived Exertion in Eumenorrheic Women.
Lambright KR, Bunn JA, Newmire DE
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42133405 · Publisher ↗
Lambright, KR, Bunn, JA, and Newmire, DE. No effect of menstrual cycle phase on Wingate power outputs or perceived exertion in eumenorrheic women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study examined whether anae...
Lambright, KR, Bunn, JA, and Newmire, DE. No effect of menstrual cycle phase on Wingate power outputs or perceived exertion in eumenorrheic women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study examined whether anaerobic performance and perceived exertion vary across three menstrual cycle phases: early follicular, late follicular, and mid-luteal in healthy, eumenorrheic women. Ten recreationally active women (22.7 ± 3.8 years) completed three 30-second Wingate anaerobic cycling tests during early follicular (1-4 days after the onset of menses), late follicular (1-3 days before predicted ovulation), and mid-luteal (6-9 days after predicted ovulation). Menstrual cycle phases were verified using ovulation test strips and self-reported tracking over two full cycles, with performance testing occurring during the third cycle. At each session, subjects completed a standardized warm-up followed by a Wingate test on a Velotron ergometer. Measured outcomes included peak power (W), mean power (W), anaerobic capacity (Wkg), fatigue index (%), and rating of perceived exertion. Data were analyzed using one-way repeated-measures ANOVAs. No differences were observed across menstrual phases for peak power ( p = 0.667, η2 = 0.044), mean power ( p = 0.236, η2 = 0.148), anaerobic capacity ( p = 0.817, η2 = 0.022), fatigue index ( p = 0.307, η2 = 0.033), or rating of perceived exertion ( p = 0.607, η2 = 0.054). While mean power demonstrated a large effect size, it did not reach statistical significance. These findings suggest that the menstrual cycle phase may not significantly influence short-duration anaerobic power output or perceived exertion. This may indicate that recreationally active women can perform high-intensity efforts such as the Wingate test consistently throughout their cycle. The results provide practical insights for athletes, coaches, and exercise professionals who design training programs for women, suggesting that phase-based modifications to anaerobic training may not be necessary for this population.
The Relationship Between Lower-Body Muscular Power and Running Performance in Division I American Football Players.
Montoye AHK, Slater TL, Pfeiffer KA … +3 more , Curtis KC, Melcher R, Burghardt W
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42133404 · Publisher ↗
Montoye, AHK, Slater, TL, Pfeiffer, KA, Curtis, KC, Melcher, R, and Burghardt, W. The relationship between lower-body muscular power and running performance in Division I American football players. J Strength Cond Res XX...
Montoye, AHK, Slater, TL, Pfeiffer, KA, Curtis, KC, Melcher, R, and Burghardt, W. The relationship between lower-body muscular power and running performance in Division I American football players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study investigated the relationship between lower-body muscular power and vertical jump with maximal on-field running acceleration and velocity in collegiate Division I American football players. Data from 97 to 115 players (depending on analysis) across all playing positions on the Michigan State University football team during the 2022 calendar year were included. Muscular power was assessed through yoke bar back squats and yoke bar reverse lunges (Eliteform system) in the offseason (January-June), with countermovement jump power and height (Vald ForceDecks) collected throughout the year. Maximal running acceleration and velocity were measured during practices and competitions throughout the year using the Catapult wearable system. Cross-sectional correlation analyses evaluated associations between muscular power and running performance, both overall and by player position (big, mid, skill). Additional, longitudinal analyses correlated spring (offseason) muscular power with fall (in-season) running outcomes 6-9 months later. Significant ( p < 0.05), direct correlations were found in cross-sectional analyses between squat peak and mean power and running outcomes for big ( r = 0.22-0.62) and mid ( r = 0.45-0.67) positions, with similar results for vertical jump relative power and height (big: r = 0.39-0.58; mid: r = 0.33-0.40). Stronger relationships were shown with longitudinal correlations (spring power, fall running measures) between muscular power and jump measures with running outcomes ( Squat - big: r = 0.23-0.82; skill: r = 0.35-0.51; mid: r = 0.30-0.55. Reverse lunge - big: r = 0.19-0.74; mid: r = 0.36-0.54. Jump relative power and height - big: r = 0.51-0.71; mid: r = 0.25-0.57). The associations between lower-body muscular power and jumping with running performance may provide insights for player development, training program design, talent identification, and injury reduction.
Injury Characteristics Among an NCAA DI Football Team Over the Course of 1 Year.
Worley EE, Stray-Gundersen SO, Mastrofini GF … +1 more , Arent SM
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42133379 · Publisher ↗
Worley, EE, Stray-Gundersen, SO, Mastrofini, GF, and Arent, SM. Injury characteristics among an NCAA DI football team over the course of 1 year. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): 676-681, 2026-Injury surveillance may be a usefu...
Worley, EE, Stray-Gundersen, SO, Mastrofini, GF, and Arent, SM. Injury characteristics among an NCAA DI football team over the course of 1 year. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): 676-681, 2026-Injury surveillance may be a useful tool for maintaining optimal health and performance of American football players. Monitoring injury rates across the year can help identify high-risk periods and guide training to reduce injuries and optimize in-season performance. This study examined the differences in the rate and type of injuries across season segments among National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I football players. Data were collected throughout 2023 from 120 athletes (age = 20.9 ± 1.7 y, height = 187.96 ± 5.9 cm, body mass = 107.7 ± 21.3 kg). Athlete exposure (AE) was defined as participation in a team strength and conditioning session, practice session, or game. Injuries were defined as events requiring medical attention. Injury characteristics were categorized by season segment: winter off-season, spring season, summer off-season, preseason, and fall season. The number of athletes is multiplied by the number of exposure events to determine total AEs. Injury rates are presented as the number of injuries per 1,000 AEs. The overall injury rate was 6.52 per 1,000 AEs. Most injuries occurred during preseason (12.34 per 1,000 AEs), followed by fall season (11.48), summer off-season (4.92), spring season (0.69), and winter off-season (0.19). Knees (24%), shoulders (13.7%), and hamstrings (9.3%) were the most commonly reported injured body parts. Preseason exhibited the highest injury rates, potentially driven by sharp increases in workload and contact forces, or cumulative fatigue from high workloads experienced during summer training. Coaches should implement position-specific prehabilitation strategies. In addition, training programs should be periodized to account for the heightened injury risk during preseason and in-season phases.
Recovery Kinetics After Repeated Sprint Training With Directional Changes in Soccer: It Is a Matter of Angle.
Poulios A, Grammenos N, Fatouros IG … +11 more , Avloniti A, Tsimeas P, Papanikolaou K, Syrou N, Rosvoglou A, Tsaousidis I, Chatzinikolaou A, Tsiokanos A, Mohr M, Jamurtas AZ, Draganidis D
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42133376 · Publisher ↗
Poulios, A, Grammenos, N, Fatouros, IG, Avloniti, A, Tsimeas, P, Papanikolaou, K, Syrou, N, Rosvoglou, A, Tsaousidis, I, Chatzinikolaou, A, Tsiokanos, A, Mohr, M, Jamurtas, AZ, and Draganidis, D. Recovery kinetics after...
Poulios, A, Grammenos, N, Fatouros, IG, Avloniti, A, Tsimeas, P, Papanikolaou, K, Syrou, N, Rosvoglou, A, Tsaousidis, I, Chatzinikolaou, A, Tsiokanos, A, Mohr, M, Jamurtas, AZ, and Draganidis, D. Recovery kinetics after repeated sprint training with directional changes in soccer: It is a matter of angle. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study determined the recovery kinetics of performance, delay onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and neuromuscular fatigue after repeated sprint training using 2 angles of changes of direction (COD) in soccer. Ten male players randomly completed 3 conditions using a randomized cross-over, repeated measures design: control, COD45 (COD of 45°) and COD90 (COD of 90°). Training load was monitored using global positioning system with accelerometers and heart-rate monitors. Blood count, maximal voluntary isometric contraction, countermovement jump (CMJ), DOMS, speed, and agility were measured at baseline and at 24-, 48-, and 72-h postexercise. Maximal voluntary isometric contraction, CMJ, and DOMS were also evaluated at 1-, 2- and 3-h postexercise. Agility, DOMS, and blood count levels remained unaltered in all conditions ( p > 0.05). Blood lactate increased (COD45:91%; COD90:89.5%, p < 0.05) postexercise. COD45 was characterized by a higher average (31%) and maximum speed (25%) and lower decelerations (58-77%) and accelerations (66-77%) than COD90 ( p < 0.05). The 10- and 30-m speed in COD45 decreased ( p < 0.05) by 20 and 9% postexercise and remained lower (4-12%) than that in COD90 for as long as 24 h. Countermovement jump declined ( p < 0.05) for 3 h in COD45 (8%) and 24 h in COD90 (5-7%). Maximal voluntary isometric contraction of knee extensors in COD45 declined (8%) and was lower than COD90 (9%) at 24 h in both limbs. Maximal voluntary isometric contraction of knee flexors decreased (COD45:14%) for 24 h in dominant and 3 h (COD45:2%, COD90:14%) in nondominant limb with COD45 inducing a greater decline than COD90 ( p < 0.05). Although COD protocols do not increase DOMS, it seems that COD training at lower angles may be associated with a slower recovery (24 h) than that at greater angles.
A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Carminatti's Test Versions: Age- and Position-Specific Variations and Normative Reference Values in Male Soccer Players.
Carminatti LJ, de Souza PV, Cetolin T … +5 more , Mohr PA, Netto AS, Ortiz JG, da Silva JF, Teixeira AS
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42127380 · Publisher ↗
Carminatti, LJ, de Souza, PV, Cetolin, T, Mohr, PA, Netto, AS, Ortiz, JG, da Silva, JF, and Teixeira, AS. A cross-sectional analysis of Carminatti's test versions: Age- and position-specific variations and normative refe...
Carminatti, LJ, de Souza, PV, Cetolin, T, Mohr, PA, Netto, AS, Ortiz, JG, da Silva, JF, and Teixeira, AS. A cross-sectional analysis of Carminatti's test versions: Age- and position-specific variations and normative reference values in male soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-The primary aims were: (a) to compare the peak speed (PS T-CAR ) and peak heart rate (HR peak ) between the 2 Carminatti's test (T-CAR) protocols, and (b) to compare T-CAR performance across age groups and playing positions. Part I used a randomized crossover design where 26 elite U-20 players completed the original T-CAR (starting at 9 km·h -1 ) and a modified, shorter version (starting at 12 km·h -1 ) to assess their interchangeability. Part II involved a cross-sectional analysis of a large data set ( n = 3,161) to establish normative values and assess T-CAR performance from Under-11 to professional levels. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Part I revealed no significant differences in PS T-CAR or HR peak between the 2 T-CAR versions, with a nearly perfect correlation for PS T-CAR ( r = 0.93) and a very large correlation for HR peak ( r = 0.89). The intraclass correlation coefficient results indicated excellent consistency, with values of 0.96 (95% CI = 0.92 to 0.98) and 0.94 (95% CI = 0.87 to 0.97) for PS T-CAR and HR peak , respectively. Part II demonstrated that T-CAR performance improved with age, with the most substantial gains occurring between the U-13 and U-15 age groups. Furthermore, position-specific differences emerged from the U-15 level onward, with wide defenders and midfielders generally outperforming central defenders. In conclusion, the modified T-CAR is a valid and time-efficient alternative to the original protocol for assessing intermittent endurance performance in highly trained soccer players. The normative data established in this study provide valuable benchmarks for practitioners to monitor long-term athletic development according to age and playing position.
Effect of Biological Maturation on Shoulder Rotator Strength and Performance After a 6-Week Summer Break in Young Male Swimmers.
Santos CC, Marinho DA, Costa MJ
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42127379 · Publisher ↗
Santos, CC, Marinho, DA, and Costa, MJ. Effect of biological maturation on shoulder rotator strength and performance after a 6-week summer break in young male swimmers. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study...
Santos, CC, Marinho, DA, and Costa, MJ. Effect of biological maturation on shoulder rotator strength and performance after a 6-week summer break in young male swimmers. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study aimed to analyze the effects of biological maturation on shoulder rotator strength and performance after a 6-week summer break in young male competitive swimmers. Twelve young swimmers were divided into pre- and mid-peak height velocity (PHV) groups. Anthropometric variables (body mass, stature, and arm span) and dryland shoulder rotator cuff strength (internal rotation; external rotation, strength balance; internal rotation/external rotation ratio) of both limbs were measured in pre- and post-test (6-week apart), alongside 25 m front crawl performance (time, T25; speed, s25) and kinematics (stroke rate; stroke length; stroke index, SI). ANOVA (level of significance p ≤ 0.05) revealed between-group (maturity offset [MO]) effects for body mass, stature, arm span, T25, s25, stroke length, and SI, indicating that mid-PHV swimmers had larger anthropometrics, strength, and stroke efficiency. Time effects were observed only for SI, while no interaction MO*time was observed. A natural growth was experienced by both MO groups, being more evident in pre-PHV swimmers. Mid-PHV swimmers showed improvements in shoulder rotator strength balance, whereas pre-PHV swimmers showed greater muscular imbalances after the summer break. Performance and kinematic variables remained stable or even slightly improved. A 6-week summer break did not impair shoulder rotator strength or swimming performance in either MO group. Thus, the interpretation of (de)training effects according to each swimmer's MO could become standard practice among swimming coaches.
Effects of Isolated Eccentric Squat Training at Different Velocities on Countermovement Jump Performance, Quadriceps Function, and Hypertrophy.
Soda N, Shimokochi Y
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42127360 · Publisher ↗
Soda, N and Shimokochi, Y. Effects of isolated eccentric squat training at different velocities on countermovement jump performance, quadriceps function, and hypertrophy. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-Eccentri...
Soda, N and Shimokochi, Y. Effects of isolated eccentric squat training at different velocities on countermovement jump performance, quadriceps function, and hypertrophy. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-Eccentric training is widely combined with traditional resistance training to improve athletic performance. However, evidence on isolated eccentric training with free weights remains limited. This study investigated the effects of an isolated eccentric squat training at different velocities on quadriceps function, hypertrophy, and the countermovement jump (CMJ) biomechanics. Twenty-four male college students without strength training experience were assigned to 1 of 3 8-week protocols (3 sessions·wk -1 ): slow eccentric squat (SES), CMJ-specific fast eccentric squat (CMJ-specific-FES), or weighted CMJ (WCMJ) training. The SES group performed 5-second descent squats at back squat 1RM (BSQ1RM); CMJ-specific-FES used rapid descents at 50% BSQ1RM. The WCMJ group trained with loads optimized for maximal power. Quadriceps function, hypertrophy, and 3-dimensional CMJ biomechanics were assessed pre-, mid-, and postintervention. The SES group exhibited the greatest quadriceps hypertrophy (10.7% vs. -0.3-2.5%, p < 0.05-0.1), whereas the CMJ-specific-FES group showed the largest improvement in early phase quadriceps rate of force development, particularly within 25 milliseconds (104.7% vs. -20.1-18.1%, p < 0.01), despite comparable strength gains across groups (9.8-23%, p < 0.05). All groups improved CMJ height and related biomechanical variables; however, the CMJ-specific-FES group demonstrated greater increases in quadriceps activities (38.5-59.6% vs. -16.8-21.2%, p < 0.05-0.1), knee joint positive power (26.4 vs. 7.7%, p < 0.05), and CMJ height (9.6 vs. 0.9%, p < 0.05) than the SES group. These findings suggest eccentric training modes should be tailored to specific goals, such as hypertrophy or explosive power, to achieve optimal training adaptations.
Three-Season Analysis of Physical Performance in Professional English Football: Influence of Match Outcome, Match Location, and Players' Position During Official Competitions.
Beato M, Allen M, Jamil M … +1 more , Vicens Bordas J
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jul · PMID 42127354 · Publisher ↗
Beato, M, Allen, M, Jamil, M, and Vicens Bordas, J. Three-season analysis of physical performance in professional English football: Influence of match outcome, match location, and players' position during official compet...
Beato, M, Allen, M, Jamil, M, and Vicens Bordas, J. Three-season analysis of physical performance in professional English football: Influence of match outcome, match location, and players' position during official competitions. J Strength Cond Res 40(7): e692-e702, 2026-This study presents a unique longitudinal analysis of physical performance across 3 consecutive seasons of the same professional English football club, capturing its progression from League One to the Championship and ultimately to the Premier League. Using official match data, the investigation aimed to determine how physical performance metrics are influenced by contextual factors including match outcome, location, and playing position. Players ( n = 49) were categorized into 5 positional groups: center backs, wing backs, center midfielders, attacking midfielders, and strikers. Matches were classified by outcome (win, draw, loss) and location (home, away), with player positions assigned based on in-game roles. Global navigation satellite systems-derived metrics included total distance covered, high-speed running (HSR), sprinting distance, and high-intensity distance (HID), alongside counts of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations. Significant effects were found for season ( p = 0.005), match outcome ( p = 0.031), and position ( p < 0.001) on total distance; for season ( p < 0.001), match outcome ( p = 0.010), and position ( p < 0.001) on HSR; and for season ( p < 0.001), match outcome ( p = 0.024), and position ( p < 0.001) on sprinting distance. High-intensity distance was significantly influenced by season ( p < 0.001), match outcome ( p = 0.009), and position ( p < 0.001). Accelerations ( p = 0.004) and decelerations ( p < 0.001) were significantly affected only by position. Match location showed no significant effect except on sprinting distance. These findings highlight the increasing physical demands across competitive tiers and emphasize the importance of tailoring physical preparation to both league level and positional requirements.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Impact of Military Foot Marches on Performance-Part 2: Cognitive Performance.
Sax van der Weyden M, Shaul Y, Helton WS … +4 more , Merrigan J, Barringer N, Newman K, Martin J
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42127345 · Publisher ↗
Sax van der Weyden, M, Shaul, Y, Helton, WS, Merrigan, J, Barringer, N, Newman, K, and Martin, J. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of military foot marches on performance-Part 2: cognitive performance....
Sax van der Weyden, M, Shaul, Y, Helton, WS, Merrigan, J, Barringer, N, Newman, K, and Martin, J. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of military foot marches on performance-Part 2: cognitive performance. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): e647-e662, 2026-Military tasks and training require service members to have adequate physical and cognitive functioning. Foot marches are a common load carriage task for service members that may induce fatigue and reduce subsequent occupational performance. The purpose of part 2 of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the impact of military style foot marches on cognitive performance outcomes. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Five electronic databases were searched for studies assessing physical or cognitive performance before and after a foot march at least 10 minutes in length. Subject data, performance variables, and foot march data were extracted. Three-level random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using standardized mean differences (SMDs; Hedge's g). Eighteen studies ( n = 382 subjects) were included for final review. All studies were fair to good quality based on the Downs and Black checklist, but most had significant bias because of confounding variables when scored on the ROBINS-I tool. After adjusting for outliers and publication bias, the meta-analysis revealed significant ( p < 0.05) decrements in visual (SMD = -0.33, [0.06, 0.59]) and auditory cognitive performance (SMD = 0.85, [0.04, 1.66]). There was no significant change in memory (SMD = 0.55, [-0.48, 1.49]) or executive function performance (SMD = -0.18, [-0.37, 0.02]). Variations in cognitive responses after foot marches may be because of differing study protocols and subject populations. Nevertheless, commanders should aim to keep the intensity of foot marches moderate, reduce loads, improve fit of load carriage equipment, and allocate rest breaks, when possible, to mitigate cognition declines postfoot march.
Which Metrics Should I Monitor? Recommendations for Monitoring Acute Changes in Physical Preparedness With Countermovement Jump Force-Time Metrics in Youth Soccer Players In-Season.
Badby AJ, Ripley NJ, McMahon JJ … +2 more , Mundy PD, Comfort P
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42127336 · Publisher ↗
Badby, AJ, Ripley, NJ, McMahon, JJ, Mundy, PD, and Comfort, P. Which metrics should I monitor? Recommendations for monitoring acute changes in physical preparedness with countermovement jump force-time metrics in youth s...
Badby, AJ, Ripley, NJ, McMahon, JJ, Mundy, PD, and Comfort, P. Which metrics should I monitor? Recommendations for monitoring acute changes in physical preparedness with countermovement jump force-time metrics in youth soccer players in-season. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of utilizing countermovement jump (CMJ) testing using force plates to monitor acute changes in lower-body neuromuscular function (NMF) resulting from in-season competitive match play in soccer athletes. A within-subjects, observational, cross-sectional, repeated-measures study design consisting of 3 in-season testing occasions was prescribed across 3 separate competitive soccer matches: immediately prematch (∼15 minutes), immediately postmatch (∼15 minutes), and ∼48 hours postmatch (match day [MD] +2). Youth Alliance League (U18) soccer players ( N = 27; age 16.9 ± 0.7 years; height 181.4 ± 5.4 cm; mass 73.6 ± 9.1 kg) were recruited from 3 professional English Football League clubs. A repeated-measures analysis of variance demonstrated significant differences ( p < 0.05) across testing timepoints for all metrics except peak propulsive force. Mass-relative (including outcome) metrics cannot be utilized alone for monitoring acute changes in NMF, as significant reductions ( p < 0.001) in body weight were identified from immediately pre- to immediately postmatch and from immediately postmatch to MD+2. Significant reductions ( p < 0.05) from immediately pre- to immediately postmatch (which were maintained at MD+2) in mean propulsive force (minimal detectable change [MDC] = 7.43%), mean propulsive velocity (MDC = 4.93%), mean propulsive power (MDC = 9.38%), and jump momentum (MDC = 4.43%) indicate that these metrics are sensitive to changes in NMF. If utilizing outcome metrics (e.g., jump height; MDC = 8.55%) in addition to these, collectively, monitoring this combination of metrics (and body weight; MDC = 1.37%) will help to explain both if and why any changes in the outcome occur following soccer match play, thus providing valuable context when utilizing the CMJ as an indicator of acute changes in NMF.
High-Load Compared With Low-Load Resistance Exercise Differentially Modulates Immune Responses of CD4 + T Cells in Postmenopausal Women.
Freitas ACQ, Orsatti CL, Borges AVBE … +4 more , Portari GV, Souza MVC, da Silva MV, Orsatti FL
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42114087 · Publisher ↗
de Queiroz Freitas, AC, Orsatti, CL, Bernardes e Borges, AV, Portari, GV, Campos Souza, MV, Vinícius da Silva, M, and Orsatti, FL. High-load compared with low-load resistance exercise differentially modulates immune resp...
de Queiroz Freitas, AC, Orsatti, CL, Bernardes e Borges, AV, Portari, GV, Campos Souza, MV, Vinícius da Silva, M, and Orsatti, FL. High-load compared with low-load resistance exercise differentially modulates immune responses of CD4+ T cells in postmenopausal women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-Aging and estrogen deficiency reduce HSP27 levels, increase inflammation, and alter lymphocyte function (immunosenescence) in postmenopausal women. Resistance exercise (RE) is a promising strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of aging and menopause by modulating immune and inflammatory responses. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these effects remain insufficiently understood, particularly regarding HSP27 expression, its interaction with IL-10 responses in CD4 + cells, and the distinct stimuli elicited by different training protocols. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-load (HL; 90% 1RM) and low-load (LL; 50% 1RM) RE protocols on lymphocyte mobilization and immune marker expression, focusing on CD4 + T cells, HSP27, and IL-10 in postmenopausal women. Thirteen postmenopausal women with experience in resistance training participated in a randomized crossover study, which included a 7-day washout period between protocols. Subjects performed high-load (HL) and low-load (LL) protocols (7 exercise), with blood samples collected pre-exercise, immediately postexercise, and 1-hour postexercise. Analyses included circulating levels of lactate and HSP27, and CD4 + T-cell subsets expressing total HSP27, phosphorylated HSP27 (phosHSP27), and cytokines IL-1β and IL-10. Both protocols significantly increased total lymphocyte counts and CD4 + T cells immediately postexercise. High load increased CD4 + T cells expressing total HSP27, phosHSP27, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In addition, circulating HSP27 levels increased significantly after HL, whereas LL was associated with more pronounced increases in lactate levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the HL protocol induces a distinct increase in the number of CD4 + T cells expressing phosHSP27 and IL-10 compared with LL, which may benefit healthy aging in postmenopausal women.
Beyond the Limits of Human Muscle Hypertrophy: A Case Study of a Mr. Olympia Competitor Bodybuilder.
Rosaci G, Biban S, Bartolomei S
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42113013 · Publisher ↗
Rosaci, G, Biban, S, and Bartolomei, S. Beyond the Limits of Human Muscle Hypertrophy: A Case Study of a Mr. Olympia Competitor Bodybuilder. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study aimed to investigate change...
Rosaci, G, Biban, S, and Bartolomei, S. Beyond the Limits of Human Muscle Hypertrophy: A Case Study of a Mr. Olympia Competitor Bodybuilder. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study aimed to investigate changes in body composition and muscle architecture (muscle thickness [MT] and corrected echo intensity [cEI]) between the bulking and the cutting phase of a professional bodybuilder's preparation (age: 38 years; body mass: 128.7 kg; height: 176 cm). MT and cEI of 9 muscles (elbow flexors, triceps brachii, pectoralis major, upper trapezius, vastus medialis/lateralis, biceps femoris, medial/lateral gastrocnemius) were calculated by B-mode ultrasound images. In addition, training and food logs were analyzed, and body composition was estimated by skinfold measurements at the same timepoints. Caloric intake decreased from ∼5,620 kcal·d -1 in the bulking phase to ∼3,140 kcal·d -1 (-44%) in the cutting phase, while the resistance training program remained largely unchanged. A loss of 6.4 kg was registered in body mass, while a reduction of 0.7 mm only was recorded in the sum of the 3 skinfolds considered. Consistently, all the muscles showed a reduction in MT, particularly evident in the upper trapezius (-28.4%) and in the gastrocnemius medialis (-12.8%). On the contrary, increases in cEI were registered in almost all sites (+28.2% and +30.4% in elbow flexors and biceps femoris, respectively). The increase in cEI registered in the cutting phase, without an increase in fat mass, may be related to a reduction of muscle glycogen. The athlete's subcutaneous fat, together with the combination of cEI and MT, should be monitored during the preparation of an elite bodybuilder to better understand the responses of the main muscles to the nutritional and training strategies adopted.
Acute Effects of Accentuated Eccentric Loading in Comparison to Traditional Resistance Loading on Velocity and Other Parameters in Concentric and Eccentric Phases in Barbell Back Squat.
Najafi A, Nosaka K, Javidi M … +4 more , Naddafha S, Kumagawa D, Bertochi GFA, Latella C
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42113001 · Publisher ↗
Najafi, A, Nosaka, K, Javidi, M, Naddafha, S, Kumagawa, D, Bertochi, GFA, and Latella, C. Acute effects of accentuated eccentric loading in comparison to traditional resistance loading on velocity and other parameters in...
Najafi, A, Nosaka, K, Javidi, M, Naddafha, S, Kumagawa, D, Bertochi, GFA, and Latella, C. Acute effects of accentuated eccentric loading in comparison to traditional resistance loading on velocity and other parameters in concentric and eccentric phases in barbell back squat. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): 629-637, 2026-We investigated the acute effects of accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) vs. traditional resistance loading (TRL) on concentric and eccentric velocities and related parameters during barbell back squat (BBS). We hypothesized that AEL at 85% or 100% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) in the first eccentric repetition would enhance the concentric velocity in subsequent repetitions. Fourteen resistance-trained men (age: 28.9 ± 7.8 years, body mass: 83.7 ± 9.4 kg, BBS 1RM/body mass ratio: 1.42 ± 0.23) completed TRL BBS at 65% 1RM, followed by BBS with AEL85 (85%/65% 1RM for eccentric/concentric) and AEL100 (100%/65% 1RM) in a randomized order. Each protocol consisted of 3 sets of 5 repetitions. One additional TRL set was performed at the end to examine fatigue. The rating of perceived exertion (RPE; 0-10 scale) was recorded after each set. Concentric peak and mean velocity, force, and power, along with eccentric mean and peak velocity, and peak force and power in each repetition were obtained using GymAware PowerTool. A 3-way repeated-measures ANOVA showed no significant differences between the 3 protocols for changes in the outcome measures over repetitions and sets. Across all sets and protocols, concentric mean velocity (mean ± SD ) was lowest in the first repetition (0.61 ± 0.09 m·s -1 ), increased in the second (0.68 ± 0.07), peaked in the third (0.69 ± 0.07), and decreased in the fourth (0.67 ± 0.08) and fifth repetitions (0.65 ± 0.09). RPE (mean ± SD ) was highest in AEL100 (8.5 ± 0.9), followed by AEL85 (8.0 ± 1.1) and TRL (6.9 ± 1.1), with all protocols differing significantly from one another. These indicate that AEL did not affect velocity-related measures in moderately resistance-trained individuals.
Influence of Sex on the Recovery Response Following Isometric Exercise Performed at Long Muscle Length.
Rosaci G, Nigro F, Marcora SM … +1 more , Bartolomei S
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42112996 · Publisher ↗
Rosaci, G, Nigro, F, Marcora, SM, and Bartolomei, S. Influence of Sex on the Recovery Response Following Isometric Exercise Performed at Long Muscle Length. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-The aim of the study w...
Rosaci, G, Nigro, F, Marcora, SM, and Bartolomei, S. Influence of Sex on the Recovery Response Following Isometric Exercise Performed at Long Muscle Length. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-The aim of the study was to compare the recovery responses of the pectoralis major muscle in men and women after isometric exercise. Twelve men (age: 25.3 ± 4.1 years; height: 177.6 ± 7.4 cm; body mass: 81.6 ± 10.1; training experience: 6.7 ± 3.7) and 10 women (age: 24.5 ± 1.4 years; height: 166.4 ± 6.7 cm; body mass: 62.5 ± 7.4; training experience: 5.0 ± 2.7) performed a high-intensity (maximum effort) intermittent isometric exercise at long muscle length (LML) for the pectoralis major muscle. Peak force at LML and short muscle length, average power at bench throw power test, muscle architecture (muscle thickness and corrected echo intensity), and muscle soreness were assessed before, and 15 minutes, 24 and 48 hours postexercise. Rate of perceived exertion was also collected 15 minutes postexercise. Although men were significantly stronger that women, no sex differences were detected in changes of peak force at LML ( p ≥ 0.184) and short muscle length ( p ≥ 0.514), muscle architecture ( p ≥ 0.552), soreness ( p ≥ 0.09), and on rate of perceived exertion ( p ≥ 0.452). However, a greater drop in average power at the bench throw power test was registered in men compared with women 15 minutes postexercise ( p < 0.001, d = 2.36). Although similar patterns of muscle recovery were observed in men and women, a sex-related difference may exist in the acute effects of isometric exercise on power exertion. Men indeed may be more sensitive to acute fatigue and more prone to power reductions after isometric exercise.
Muscle Oxygenation, Performance, and Perceived Fatigability During Low-Intensity Isometric Exercise: Effects of Anchoring Strategy, Blood Flow Restriction, and Sex.
Kwak M, Benitez B, Mitchinson CJ … +2 more , Snell ER, Bergstrom HC
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42112989 · Publisher ↗
Kwak, M, Benitez, B, Mitchinson, CJ, Snell, ER, and Bergstrom, HC. Muscle oxygenation, performance, and perceived fatigability during low-intensity isometric exercise: Effects of anchoring strategy, blood flow restrictio...
Kwak, M, Benitez, B, Mitchinson, CJ, Snell, ER, and Bergstrom, HC. Muscle oxygenation, performance, and perceived fatigability during low-intensity isometric exercise: Effects of anchoring strategy, blood flow restriction, and sex. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): e571-e583, 2026-This study investigated the effects of low-intensity isometric exercise modality and sex on muscle oxygen saturation (SmO 2 ), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), pain, performance fatigability (PF; change in maximal voluntary isometric contraction), and time to task failure (TTF). Fifteen healthy men (22.7 ± 4.7 years) and 15 women (22.5 ± 4.4 years) completed 3 isometric exercise conditions: (a): RPE-Clamp at RPE = 3, (b) torque-matched blood flow restriction (BFR), and (c) torque-matched NON-BFR. No significant differences in TTF ( p = 0.198) were found across conditions or between sexes. SmO 2 was generally highest in the RPE-Clamp condition and lowest in BFR. At task failure during BFR, men exhibited significantly lower SmO 2 than women ( p = 0.001), though no sex differences were found at other time points or in other conditions. Rating of perceived exertion and pain increased significantly over time in both BFR and NON-BFR conditions ( p < 0.001), regardless of sex. Performance fatigability was significantly greater in BFR and NON-BFR than in RPE-Clamp ( p < 0.01), with no difference between BFR and NON-BFR ( p = 1.000). Men demonstrated greater PF than women in BFR ( p = 0.001) and NON-BFR ( p = 0.011), but not in RPE-Clamp ( p = 0.720). These findings suggested that BFR exercise performed with sustained isometric contractions under relatively moderate cuff pressure may not induce greater fatigability than NON-BFR exercise. However, fatigability may be influenced by sex-related differences in absolute target torque. Although the RPE-Clamp condition, characterized by lower muscular stress and fatigability, may represent a viable option for clinical and early-rehabilitation settings, its training efficacy requires further investigation.
Neuromuscular Adaptations, Performance, and Monitoring of Endurance Training Within Moderate Domain Intensities.
Guimarães MP, Foresti YF, Papoti M … +1 more , Azevedo PHSM
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 May · PMID 42112980 · Publisher ↗
Guimarães, MP, Foresti, YF, Papoti, M, and de Azevedo, PHSM. Neuromuscular adaptations, performance, and monitoring of endurance training within moderate domain intensities. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This...
Guimarães, MP, Foresti, YF, Papoti, M, and de Azevedo, PHSM. Neuromuscular adaptations, performance, and monitoring of endurance training within moderate domain intensities. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study aims to find whether training at the upper limit of the moderate domain or below it (10-15%) differently affects neuromuscular and psychophysiological responses and performance. A total of 20 trained amateur runners participated in this 12-week study. In the first 4 weeks, subjects underwent familiarization with the tests and training. Then the subjects were divided into 2 groups ( n = 10 per group, with 6 men and 4 women in each group): VL 1 and <VL 1 , in which they were expected to train at the upper limit of the moderate domain and 10-15% below it for 6 weeks, respectively. The training was designed to be volume-equated between groups. Body composition, neuromuscular adaptations, and performance were evaluated, and the training and recovery sessions were monitored for psychophysiological factors. The groups showed no significant differences in neuromuscular and performance variables, although they improved from the pre- to post-intervention periods, except for D', which worsened in both groups. The psychophysiological variables differed between the groups at some times, being higher for the VL 1 but within acceptable limits. Training at the upper limit of the moderate domain or 10-15% below it similarly improves trained amateur runners' neuromuscular variables and performance.
Effects of Functional Inspiratory Muscle Training Based on Core Stability Exercise on Respiratory Functions and Physical Performance in Football Players.
Tütüneken YE, Kardes K, Kabasakal E … +4 more , Çakir EN, Kalay AC, Tetik G, Deliktaş ES
J Strength Cond Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42112967 · Publisher ↗
Tütüneken, YE, Kardes, K, Kabasakal, E, Çakir, EN, Kalay, AC, Tetik, G, and Deliktaş, ES. Effects of functional inspiratory muscle training based on core stability exercise on respiratory functions and physical performan...
Tütüneken, YE, Kardes, K, Kabasakal, E, Çakir, EN, Kalay, AC, Tetik, G, and Deliktaş, ES. Effects of functional inspiratory muscle training based on core stability exercise on respiratory functions and physical performance in football players. J Strength Cond Res 40(6): 702-708, 2026-Inspiratory muscle training is recognized as a potential strategy to enhance performance. This study compares the effects of a program that incorporates Functional Inspiratory Muscle Training (FIMT) based on Core Stability Exercise with Core Stability Training (CST) in football players. Thirty subjects were randomly assigned to either the FIMT group or the CST group. Both programs were conducted over 6 weeks, with five 45-minute sessions each week, alongside regular training routines. Outcomes measured included respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function tests, the Biering-Sorensen Test (BST), the Anterior Plank Test (APT), and the Y-Balance Test (YBT). Results indicated statistically significant improvements in the FIMT group for maximal inspiratory pressure, maximal expiratory pressure, forced vital capacity, and FEV 1 values ( p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the groups in BST, APT, and YBT results ( p > 0.05). Overall, FIMT proved more effective than CST in enhancing respiratory muscle strength and lung volumes in football players, while both methods similarly affected trunk muscular endurance and dynamic balance.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe