European Journal Of Applied Physiology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Short-term endurance training in the cold with layered clothing mitigates perceptual strain during exercise in the heat.
Yamaguchi K, Okamoto S, Makino A … +3 more , Yabuuchi R, Girard O, Goto K
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42400623 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: We examined whether short-term endurance training in the cold combined with layered clothing enhances cardiovascular, thermoregulatory, and performance adaptations. METHODS: Sixteen healthy males completed five...
PURPOSE: We examined whether short-term endurance training in the cold combined with layered clothing enhances cardiovascular, thermoregulatory, and performance adaptations. METHODS: Sixteen healthy males completed five consecutive days of endurance cycling in the cold (10 °C, 50% relative humidity [rH]) while wearing either thermal layered clothing (WEAR) or light clothing (CON). Before and after training, participants performed a graded exercise test, a time-to-exhaustion test, and a heat stress test (30 min at 35 °C, 50% rH). RESULTS: During training, heart rate, skin temperature, and sweat rate were higher in WEAR than CON (P < 0.05). Maximal power output increased similarly in both groups (WEAR: + 7.2 ± 9.5%; CON: + 8.4 ± 7.1%, P < 0.05), while maximal oxygen uptake improved only in WEAR (52.4 ± 7.3 to 55.2 ± 7.1 mL/kg/min, P < 0.05). During the heat stress test, ratings of perceived exertion and thermal sensation decreased after training in WEAR only (P < 0.05), with no changes in sweat rate, skin temperature, or rectal temperature in either group. CONCLUSION: Short-term endurance training in the cold combined with layered clothing attenuated perceptual strain during subsequent exercise in the heat, implying a practical alternative approach to traditional heat acclimation strategies.
Sex comparisons across different indices of vascular health in recreationally active healthy adults.
Landers-Ramos RQ, Zakrewski OC
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42397571 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The presence of sex differences in various vascular assessments in younger to middle-aged adults is inconsistent in the literature. PURPOSE: Determine whether sex differences are present across four differe...
INTRODUCTION: The presence of sex differences in various vascular assessments in younger to middle-aged adults is inconsistent in the literature. PURPOSE: Determine whether sex differences are present across four different indices of vascular health. METHODS: Healthy, recreationally active premenopausal females (N = 30) and similarly aged males (N = 30) aged 18-54 yrs performed four vascular assessments. Assessments included resting augmentation index (AIx%), carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV, ms), and simultaneous digital thermal monitoring (temperature rebound; TR%) and near-infrared spectroscopy-based microvascular reactivity (10s reperfusion slope; slope 2, %s). RESULTS: AIx (p = 0.006) was significantly lower in males vs. females. Sex differences were eliminated after covarying for mean adjusted height (8.9 ± 9.1% vs. 16.8 ± 11.9% in males and females, respectively; p = 0.360) or when examining a subset of individuals (N = 14 males and N = 14 females) with similar body height (13.0 ± 8.7% vs. 16.4 ± 7.9% in males and females, respectively; p = 0.286). Cf-PWV was significantly higher in males (6.0 ± 0.8 ms) vs. females (5.2 ± 0.7 ms; p < 0.001). We found no differences between males and females in TR (1.2 ± 1.1% vs. 1.1 ± 0.8%, respectively; p = 0.771), or StO slope 2 (2.2 ± 0.6%s vs. 1.9 ± 0.9%s, respectively; p = 0.254). CONCLUSIONS: After accounting for confounding variables, differences in cf-PWV were detected between sexes, while sex differences in other assessments of vascular health were not observed.
Moderate altitude-mimicking CO-induced inhibition of hemoglobin oxygen binding decreased middle-distance swimming speed in male national-level swimmers.
Venckunas T, Achramavicius J, Westerblad H … +5 more , Maconyte V, Zuoziene IJ, Pravdinskiene I, Lundby C, Stasiulis A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42397570 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Performance in endurance sports is generally linked to aerobic capacity, but this link is less clear in swimming due to its technical complexity and constricted breathing periods. Here, we studied the effect of...
PURPOSE: Performance in endurance sports is generally linked to aerobic capacity, but this link is less clear in swimming due to its technical complexity and constricted breathing periods. Here, we studied the effect of a moderate acute reduction in blood oxygen transport capacity on middle-distance swimming performance. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized crossover design, national-level swimmers (6 men, 6 women; 20 ± 2 years; FINA score 604 ± 105) completed two 200 m front crawl swimming time-trials (TT) on average six days apart, either 30 min after rebreathing moderate (men: 1.5 ml·kg, women: 1.2 ml·kg; CO) or small (SHAM) CO dose. Capillary blood lactate and hemoglobin CO binding (%HbCO) were measured before and after the TT. RESULTS: HbCO was ~ 9% in CO and ~ 3% in SHAM. Analysis at the group level showed 1.5 ± 1.6% longer TT times in CO than in SHAM in men (136.6 ± 6.5 vs. 134.5 ± 6.2 s; p = 0.018), whereas there was no significant difference in women. The average increase in blood lactate during TT (10.5-13.5 mmol·l) did not differ between conditions. Analysis at the individual level showed longer swimming TT times in the CO than in the SHAM condition (range: 1.1 to 5.0 s) in eight of the twelve participants. CONCLUSION: We observed a small negative effect of moderate acute hypoxemia on middle-distance swimming speed in male national-level swimmers, which will have a limited impact on a population basis but can be highly important for an individual competitive swimmer.
Kinetics of submaximal DFA α1 prior and post maximal efforts in trained and highly trained male and female cyclists.
Rayo Martín F, Gronwald T, Düking P
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42390591 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the kinetics of a non-linear heart rate (HR) variability parameter (DFA α1) during submaximal cycling in male and female trained and highly trained cyclists in a non-fatigued state and after repea...
PURPOSE: To investigate the kinetics of a non-linear heart rate (HR) variability parameter (DFA α1) during submaximal cycling in male and female trained and highly trained cyclists in a non-fatigued state and after repeated maximal cycling bouts. METHODS: N = 47 participants (17 female) completed a cycling protocol consisting of two blocks (Block1, Block2), each including two standardised submaximal cycling bouts performed prior (PRE) and post a maximal incremental test (POST), having four time points (Block1: PRE1-POST1; Block2: PRE2-POST2). DFA α1, oxygen consumption ([Formula: see text]), HR, respiratory frequency (RF) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed during the submaximal bouts, and [Formula: see text] peak and maximal power output (Wmax) during the maximal tests. A linear mixed effects model was used to analyse data. RESULTS: Block2 showed significantly lower [Formula: see text] peak (β = - 2.51 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) and Wmax (β = - 24.3 W) values. DFA α1 decreased significantly from PRE1 (1.32 ± 0.19) to POST1 (1.12 ± 0.34) and remained suppressed at Block2 (1.14 ± 0.31, 1.09 ± 0.35). [Formula: see text] (+ 2.37 mL·kg⁻·min⁻), HR (+ 15 bpm), RF (+ 8 breaths/min) and RPE (+ 2) increased significantly in Block1 and stayed elevated in Block2. Following POST2, HR decreased (-4 bpm) and RF increased (+ 1 breaths/min) significantly. Training status significantly influenced absolute levels of DFA α1, HR, and [Formula: see text], but did not influence RPE or RF. Sex did not significantly alter kinetics of DFA α1, HR, V̇O₂, RPE and RF. CONCLUSION: DFA α1 during submaximal exercise reflects both acute fatigue and non-recovered state in a repeated maximal test setting and may provide complementary information on autonomic and systemic demands when interpreted alongside [Formula: see text], HR, RF and RPE.
Effects of normobaric hypoxia and hyperthermia on ventilatory responses to high-intensity interval training bouts.
Girardi M, Nicolò A, Marcora SM … +4 more , Bazzucchi I, Felici F, Dickinson J, Sacchetti M
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42390590 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Respiratory frequency (f) and tidal volume (V) show distinct responses during high-intensity interval training (HIIT) bouts, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated the effects of hypoxia a...
PURPOSE: Respiratory frequency (f) and tidal volume (V) show distinct responses during high-intensity interval training (HIIT) bouts, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated the effects of hypoxia and hyperthermia on ventilatory responses to HIIT bouts. METHODS: Ten recreationally trained males (mean ± SD: peak oxygen uptake: 3.98 ± 0.62 L/min, age: 28 ± 6 years) performed the same HIIT protocol to exhaustion in three randomized conditions: normobaric hypoxia (HYP, 15% O), hyperthermia (HOT, 35 °C, 40% humidity), and control (CON, 18 °C and 40% humidity). Work-recovery phases (30-30 s) were performed at 109% of peak power output from a prior incremental test and 50 W, respectively. RESULTS: Time-to-exhaustion (TTE) differed (P < 0.05) across CON (18.0 ± 4.4 min), HYP (9.4 ± 2.8 min), and HOT (12.6 ± 3.1 min) conditions. Iso-time f was associated with changes in TTE and positively correlated with perceived exertion (P < 0.001; r = 0.85) and aural temperature (P < 0.001; r = 0.58). On average, f increased during the work phase and decreased during recovery, primarily driving pulmonary ventilation ([Formula: see text]) during work-recovery alternations. Conversely, V showed a smaller and opposite response, with higher values during recovery. V plateaued in all conditions, but higher values were observed in HYP versus CON and HOT, accompanied by higher capillary blood lactate levels and lower blood oxygen saturation. CONCLUSIONS: f is associated with changes in exercise tolerance irrespective of the environmental conditions tested and is more closely related to perceived exertion than to aural temperature. f primarily drives the [Formula: see text] response to high-intensity work-recovery alternations, while V appears fine-tuned on f levels and the magnitude of metabolic inputs.
Does creatine supplementation improve strength and power in physically active individuals on a vegan diet? a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
López-Moreno M, Muñoz A, Aguilar-Navarro M … +6 more , Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Franco-Andrés A, López-López P, Crespo-Cañizares A, Marrero-Fernández P, Forbes SC
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42390589 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the impact of four weeks of creatine monohydrate supplementation on strength and power performance in physically active individuals following a vegan diet. METHODS: Twenty physically a...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the impact of four weeks of creatine monohydrate supplementation on strength and power performance in physically active individuals following a vegan diet. METHODS: Twenty physically active vegan adults (18-45 years) were enrolled in a triple-blind, placebo-controlled study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either creatine monohydrate (0.1 g·kg⁻¹·day⁻¹; 5 females and 5 males) or a placebo (5 females and 5 males), while adhering to a normocaloric vegan diet. Body composition, physical performance (countermovement jump test (CMJ), sprint, repeated jumps, handgrip strength, and isometric mid-thigh pull), and renal biomarkers were assessed at baseline and after a 4-week supplementation period. RESULTS: After 4 weeks, the creatine group showed significant increases in skeletal muscle mass (+ 0.3 kg), total body water (+ 1.4 kg), and BMI (+ 0.3 kg/m²), along with reduced body fat (-1.4 kg) compared to controls (p < 0.05). Serum creatinine and creatine levels significantly increased in the creatine group (p < 0.001-0.03). Performance improvements were observed in lower-body explosive performance, particularly in CMJ, as well as in maximal height and flight time during repeated jumps (p < 0.001-0.04), with no changes in sprint or strength tests. CONCLUSION: Four weeks of creatine supplementation in individuals following a vegan diet enhances muscle strength and lower-body muscular power. Longer-term studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of creatine supplementation in this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06483321. https//clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06483321.
An integrated model of rapid torque production: neuromuscular adaptations under fatigue after strength training.
Abdalla LHP, Denadai BS, de Menezes Bassan N … +2 more , Broxterman RM, Greco CC
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42390588 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the effects of short-term maximal strength training on the dynamics of maximal torque and torque impulse, assessed in non-fatigued and fatigued muscles across distinct temporal domains. Nineteen h...
This study investigated the effects of short-term maximal strength training on the dynamics of maximal torque and torque impulse, assessed in non-fatigued and fatigued muscles across distinct temporal domains. Nineteen healthy men participated: ten performed a unilateral short-term training program of the knee extensors, while nine maintained their habitual routines as a control group. Before and after the intervention, all participants performed a 5-minute all-out test. The test was used to characterize the torque-time hyperbolic relationship and to determine critical torque (CT) and critical impulse (CI), as well as the accumulated impulse above CT and CI (iCT' and iCI'). In the non-fatigued condition, training significantly increased maximal torque (p = 0.040), with no changes in torque impulse or integrated electromyography (iEMG) across the 30, 100, and 200 ms time windows (all p > 0.05). During the 5-min all-out test, training significantly increased the time constant (τ) of the decay in maximal torque and total impulse of torque (all, p < 0.05), while CT and CI remained unchanged (all, p > 0.05). In parallel, iCT' and iCI' increased significantly (all, p < 0.05). Analysis of iEMG revealed an increase in the intercept of the iEMG-contraction relationship (p < 0.05), with no change in its slope (p > 0.05). These findings demonstrate that short-term maximal strength training enhances maximal torque and fatigue tolerance during sustained maximal efforts via slower neuromechanical decay and greater impulse availability above critical thresholds, without altering the critical limits of torque or impulse.
Physical exercise in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy: state of the art and future challenges beyond common misconceptions.
Crisafulli O, Fortunati M, Brindisi F … +6 more , Nuredini A, Palermi S, Tupler R, Voet N, Odone A, D'Antona G
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jul · PMID 42390587 · Publisher ↗
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a progressive inherited myopathy characterized by muscle weakness, fatty infiltration, and consequent reduction in functional capacity. In this context, physical exercise...
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a progressive inherited myopathy characterized by muscle weakness, fatty infiltration, and consequent reduction in functional capacity. In this context, physical exercise (PE) has been proposed as a non-pharmacological strategy aimed at preserving physical efficiency. However, its prescription in FSHD has historically been approached with caution due to concerns regarding overwork weakness and potential exacerbation of muscle damage. As a result, clinical management has often remained conservative, with limited and non-standardized PE recommendations. Nevertheless, physical inactivity may further contribute to deconditioning, loss of autonomy, and deterioration in quality of life, highlighting a clear tension between perceived risk and potential benefit. In this framework, identifying safe and effective PE strategies represents a central unmet need in FSHD care. Possibly due to disease rarity and historical concerns, the available literature on PE in FSHD remains fragmented, limiting the strength of definitive conclusions. A structured synthesis of existing evidence may help clarify feasible and potentially effective exercise modalities, as well as guide the development of optimized intervention strategies. This review critically examines the current evidence on PE in FSHD, with specific reference to aerobic, anaerobic, and combined training interventions. The potential synergistic role of concomitant nutritional strategies is also considered. The critical analysis highlights exercise modalities that appear more consistently safe and potentially beneficial, while underscoring substantial methodological limitations across studies. Finally, emerging concepts in exercise tailoring are discussed, with the aim of addressing the clinical variability of FSHD and informing future prospective, controlled investigations.
Acute hemoglobin responses during bench press exercise across relative loads and sport backgrounds: a cross-sectional functional near-infrared spectroscopy study.
Kosuge T, Matsuda T, Yoshida S … +6 more , Sugawara K, Mitsuya H, Hakkaku T, Okamura S, Hashimoto T, Okada T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42377493 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To compare acute hemoglobin responses during bench press (BP) exercise among bodybuilders (BB), powerlifters (PL), Paralympic powerlifters (PP), and untrained controls (CON), with emphasis on relative load and s...
PURPOSE: To compare acute hemoglobin responses during bench press (BP) exercise among bodybuilders (BB), powerlifters (PL), Paralympic powerlifters (PP), and untrained controls (CON), with emphasis on relative load and sport background. METHODS: Thirty-eight participants (BB, n = 10; PL, n = 10; PP, n = 8; CON, n = 10) performed ten BP repetitions at 20%, 40%, and 60% of one-repetition maximum (1RM). Multichannel functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to assess oxygenated hemoglobin (O₂Hb), deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb), and total hemoglobin (tHb) responses over the C3-Cz-C4 region. Linear mixed models were used to test the effects of group, condition, and their interactions. RESULTS: The main effect of condition was significant for ΔO₂Hb in nine of ten channels and for ΔtHb in one channel (p_FDR_channel < 0.05). No group effects or group × condition interactions were observed for ΔO₂Hb, ΔHHb, or ΔtHb. Within-group post hoc analyses showed that ΔO₂Hb differences were observed mainly between 20 and 40% of 1RM (p_FDR_slice < 0.05), with fewer additional differences involving 60% of 1RM. CONCLUSION: Acute hemoglobin responses during BP were expressed primarily as ΔO₂Hb changes and were associated with relative load under the present low-to-moderate load conditions. Because group effects and group × condition interactions were not supported, these findings should be regarded as preliminary and descriptive rather than evidence of sport-specific adaptation or between-group differences in response magnitude. Observed O₂Hb changes represent regional hemodynamic responses, not direct measures of cortical activation or motor control processes.
Effects of rifle carriage on performance, physiological responses, power output and external work in a simulated biathlon competition.
Jonsson Kårström M, Horvath M, Andersson EP … +1 more , Laaksonen MS
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371086 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of rifle carriage on performance, physiological responses, power output and external work during a simulated biathlon competition in the field. METHODS: Twenty well-trained biathletes (...
PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of rifle carriage on performance, physiological responses, power output and external work during a simulated biathlon competition in the field. METHODS: Twenty well-trained biathletes (10 women) completed a simulated biathlon competition (women 3 × 1.9 km, men 3 × 2.4 km) twice, one trial while carrying the rifle (WR) and the other without rifle (NR) in a randomized counter-balanced order. Laps were separated by two simulated shootings, lasting 38.9 ± 8.2 s. Trials were separated by 30-min of active recovery. Heart rate and respiratory variables were measured throughout each trial. Furthermore, blood lactate concentration and ratings of perceived exertion were assessed after each lap. Power output and external work were estimated for both trials based on positional data. RESULTS: Overall roller-skiing speed was lower WR than NR (5.49 ± 0.47 vs. 5.69 ± 0.49 m∙s, p < 0.001), with largest differences during the uphill sections. No differences in physiological responses were found between WR and NR during laps or course sections (p > 0.05), but oxygen uptake and breathing frequency were higher WR than NR during the second simulated shooting (p < 0.05). Mean power output was slightly lower WR than NR; however, the participants performed more external work WR compared to NR due to the longer duration of the WR trial (both p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Since elevated physiological markers may negatively impact standing shooting performance, biathletes should optimize their pacing strategies to maximize overall performance. In addition, rifle carriage increases external work through a lengthened skiing duration, which should be considered when planning and performing biathlon training.
Methodological limitations when investigating the acute physiological responses to repeated-sprint exercise with maximum end-expiratory breath holds.
Woorons X
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371085 · Publisher ↗
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Cyclooxygenase-dependent contribution to increased flow mediated dilatation following a week of repeated ischemic preconditioning.
Thomas S, Murphy SR, AlSalahi SE … +1 more , Junejo RT
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371084 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) independently enhance endothelial function and flow mediated dilation (FMD); yet the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely defined. T...
PURPOSE: Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) independently enhance endothelial function and flow mediated dilation (FMD); yet the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigated the contribution of cyclooxygenase (COX) dependent vasodilators to FMD before and after repeated IPC and RIPC. METHODS: 21 healthy participants underwent Radial artery FMD assessments before and after oral aspirin (600 mg) ingestion for COX inhibition. Participants then completed a one-weeklong alternate day unilateral IPC protocol (four repeated cycles of 5-minute ischemia and 5-minute reperfusion). 24 h after the final IPC session, FMD responses were reassessed before and after aspirin ingestion. RESULTS: Prior to IPC treatment, aspirin failed to significantly reduce FMD in both Radial arteries. Following IPC treatment, the now significantly increased FMD of the ipsilateral arm (9.50 ± 4.58% (mean ± standard deviation); p = 0.006) attenuated with aspirin (4.55 ± 2.68%; p = 0.002). Absolute difference in FMD % before and after aspirin ingestion increased from 1.48 ± 5.05% pre-IPC to 4.95 ± 4.96% (p = 0.016) post-IPC. In the contralateral (RIPC) arm, increased FMD % also attenuated with aspirin (p = 0.006) but this statistical significance was not seen following correction for shear rate. Nonetheless, absolute difference in FMD % before and after aspirin increased from 0.04 ± 4.05 pre-RIPC to 2.27 ± 3.60% (p = 0.043) post-RIPC. CONCLUSION: One week of alternate day IPC improves contribution of COX-derived vasoactive mediators to FMD. Contributions to RIPC driven improvements in FMD require further investigation.
Dynamic effects of different exercise modalities on autonomic recovery: a longitudinal study based on heart rate variability.
Wang W, Qin X, Xu J … +2 more , Zhao Y, Ren H
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371083 · Publisher ↗
Purpose Post-exercise recovery is a critical window for physiological adaptation, with the autonomic nervous system (ANS) playing a key regulatory role. However, whether long-term training with different modalities syste...
Purpose Post-exercise recovery is a critical window for physiological adaptation, with the autonomic nervous system (ANS) playing a key regulatory role. However, whether long-term training with different modalities systematically influences post-exercise ANS recovery remains unclear. This study investigated the long-term effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and resistance training (RT) on post-exercise ANS recovery assessed by heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy adults. Methods Three independent cohorts completed 12 weeks of MICT, HIIT, or RT (3 sessions per week). 5-minute continuous HRV data were collected immediately after each session. Recovery slopes of the root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) and low-frequency/high-frequency power (LF/HF) ratio were calculated. Linear mixed-effects models analyzed trends in recovery slopes across training weeks, with pre-exercise resting HRV and prior-night insomnia score as covariates. Results A total of 43 participants (MICT: n = 13; HIIT: n = 16; RT: n = 14) completed the intervention, yielding 1393 training observations. RMSSD recovery slope decreased significantly in MICT (b=-0.165, P = 0.003), but not in HIIT (b = 0.019, P = 0.680) or RT (b=-0.037, P = 0.452). Between-group comparisons showed a significant difference between HIIT and MICT (Δb = 0.184, P = 0.030). Pre-exercise resting RMSSD (β = 0.022, P < 0.001) and prior-night insomnia score (β = 0.052, P = 0.021) significantly influenced RMSSD recovery slope. No observable trend was detected in LF/HF ratio recovery slopes. Conclusion Long-term training with different exercise modalities differentially affects post-exercise ANS recovery. MICT potentially promotes economical autonomic adaptation; HIIT maintains rapid recovery capacity; RT exerts weaker effects. Pre-exercise resting RMSSD and sleep quality may serve as practical markers for daily training monitoring.
Technique-specific reduction of sciatic nerve stiffness through neurodynamic stretches at submaximal and maximal intensity in asymptomatic individuals.
Hitier M, Vieira DCL, Cometti C … +2 more , Durigan JLQ, Babault N
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371082 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To compare the immediate effects of two neurodynamic mobilization techniques (flossing vs. tensioning) on the sciatic nerve and hamstring muscle tissues, using different stretching intensities. METHODS: Twenty p...
PURPOSE: To compare the immediate effects of two neurodynamic mobilization techniques (flossing vs. tensioning) on the sciatic nerve and hamstring muscle tissues, using different stretching intensities. METHODS: Twenty physically active volunteers performed a randomized, study comprising seven conditions (six stretching + control). Interventions included static stretching (SS), neurodynamic tensioning (TENS), and neurodynamic flossing (FLOS), applied at 100% (pain threshold) or 90% maximal range of motion, using 5 × 60-s sets. Shear wave elastography (SWE) was used to assess sciatic nerve and biceps femoris stiffness before and immediately after the interventions. Measurements included flexibility tests (passive knee extension (PKE), stand and reach (SR), slump), and hamstring strength (MVIC) alongside with electromyography (EMG). RESULTS: SWE of the sciatic nerve showed a significant condition × time interaction (p < 0.001), with a significant decrease only after flossing at maximal intensity (FLOS100); The biceps femoris (BF) shear wave velocity (SWV) decreased over time (p = 0.004) independently of the condition. Flexibility outcomes significantly improved after all stretching interventions (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, FLOS100 produced significantly greater improvements in sciatic nerve mobility than SS at maximal intensity (p = 0.017). MVIC significantly decreased from PRE to POST (p = 0.009) across all conditions, with no condition × time interaction (p = 0.991). The EMG activity remained unchanged for BF muscle while semitendinosus (ST) EMG showed a significant decrease over time (p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Neurodynamic flossing at maximal intensity reduced sciatic nerve stiffness and mobility in asymptomatic individuals. These neural adaptations suggest flossing should be prioritized for neural tissue, while all stretching techniques similarly affect muscle stiffness.
Surface electromyographic analysis of the rectus abdominis during trunk-flexed and sustained forced expirations.
Chino K, Ohya T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371081 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate rectus abdominis (RA) activity during forced expiration under conditions where RA activity is assumed to be prominent, including trunk flexion and sustained expiration. METHODS: Fourteen males per...
PURPOSE: To investigate rectus abdominis (RA) activity during forced expiration under conditions where RA activity is assumed to be prominent, including trunk flexion and sustained expiration. METHODS: Fourteen males performed maximal voluntary forced expirations sustained from total lung capacity (TLC) to residual volume with and without slow trunk flexion. Maximal voluntary forced expiration from TLC with rapid trunk flexion was also performed as a single effort. As a reflexive forced expiration, sneezing was performed. Submaximal sustained expirations at 20, 30, and 50% of maximal expiratory mouth pressure were also conducted. During voluntary expirations, mouth pressure was measured using a mouth pressure meter. During all tasks, EMG activity of the RA and internal oblique/transversus abdominis (IO/TrA) were measured using surface electromyography. RESULTS: RA activity during maximal voluntary forced expiration did not change with slow trunk flexion but increased with rapid trunk flexion; however, neither condition increased expiratory mouth pressure. RA activity was significantly lower than IO/TrA activity during maximal voluntary forced expirations with and without trunk flexion, but did not differ significantly from IO/TrA activity during sneezing. During maximal voluntary sustained expiration, RA activity increased without trunk flexion but decreased with trunk flexion. RA activity increased during submaximal voluntary sustained expirations at all mouth pressure levels, but the magnitude of the increase was smaller than that of the OI/TrA. CONCLUSION: The RA was less active and less responsive during voluntary forced expiration than the other abdominal muscles, whereas it appeared to be similarly active and responsive during reflexive forced expiration.
Neck cooling, with or without menthol mouth rinse, improves repeated-shuttle sprint performance and perceived thermal strain in hijab-wearing female futsal players in hot-dry indoor conditions.
Jafari A, Borujeni AH
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371080 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Female athletes wearing a sports hijab may experience greater heat strain during high-intensity intermittent exercise. This study examined the effects of menthol mouth rinse (MEN), neck cooling (NEC), and their...
PURPOSE: Female athletes wearing a sports hijab may experience greater heat strain during high-intensity intermittent exercise. This study examined the effects of menthol mouth rinse (MEN), neck cooling (NEC), and their combination (NEC + MEN) on repeated-shuttle sprint performance, physiological responses, and perceptual outcomes in hijab-wearing female futsal players exercising in hot-dry indoor conditions. METHODS: Twenty-five female players completed four randomized crossover trials conducted in a hot-dry environment (34 ± 1 °C, 20-30% RH; WBGT ≈ 31 °C). Each trial involved a 10 × 30-m out-and-back repeated-sprint test every 30 s. Outcomes were mean/best sprint time, fatigue index, whole-body thermal sensation/comfort, RPE, and post-test HR, sweat loss, and pre-trial rectal temperature. RESULTS: Mean sprint time was faster in NEC and MEN + NEC than PLA (p < 0.001 for both) and modestly faster in MEN than PLA (p = 0.045). Best sprint time was faster in NEC and MEN + NEC than PLA (p < 0.001), whereas MEN did not differ from PLA (p = 1.000). Fatigue index was lower in MEN, NEC, and MEN + NEC than PLA (all p ≤ 0.002). Post-RSA heart rate and rectal temperature did not differ between conditions (p ≥ 0.553). Sweat loss was lower in MEN + NEC and NEC than PLA (p ≤ 0.049). Thermal sensation/comfort and RPE increased over time (p < 0.001) but were lower in NEC and MEN + NEC than PLA (condition effects, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Neck cooling enhances repeated-shuttle sprint performance and reduces perceived thermal strain in hijab-wearing female futsal players in hot-dry indoor heat. Menthol provides smaller performance benefits, and MEN + NEC is broadly comparable to NEC alone for primary performance outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT87477.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation with blood flow restriction shows preliminary effects on abductor hallucis muscle size and toe flexor strength: a pilot randomized controlled trial.
Okamura K, Uehara S, Nagamune N … +1 more , Kanai S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371079 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To examine the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) on abductor hallucis (ABH) cross-sectional area (CSA) compared with NMES alone in a pilot randomiz...
PURPOSE: To examine the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) on abductor hallucis (ABH) cross-sectional area (CSA) compared with NMES alone in a pilot randomized controlled trial. Toe flexor strength (TFS) and foot posture were also examined as secondary and exploratory outcomes, respectively. METHODS: Thirty participants were randomly allocated to either an NMES + BFR group or an NMES-alone group. Both groups received 15 min of ABH NMES three times weekly for 6 weeks, while the NMES + BFR group additionally received BFR. ABH CSA, TFS, and Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6) scores were assessed pre- and post-intervention by a blinded assessor. Post-intervention between-group differences were analyzed using baseline-adjusted analysis of covariance. RESULTS: The NMES + BFR group showed greater post-intervention ABH CSA than the NMES group (adjusted mean difference [95% confidence interval] = 0.19 [0.08-0.30] cm², p = 0.001). The between-group difference in TFS favored the NMES + BFR group but was not statistically significant (1.83 [- 0.09-3.75] kg, p = 0.061). Exploratory analysis showed lower post-intervention FPI-6 scores in the NMES + BFR group than in the NMES group (- 1.59 [- 2.46--0.72] points, p = 0.001). No adverse events or intolerance leading to discontinuation occurred. CONCLUSION: Six weeks of NMES combined with BFR showed preliminary favorable effects on ABH CSA compared with NMES alone, whereas evidence for superior improvement in TFS was inconclusive. All findings, including the exploratory foot posture results, require confirmation in larger studies with more complete intervention-dose reporting. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registration number (date): UMIN000054853 (August 1, 2024).
Endocrine and neuromodulatory regulation during prolonged maximal 6000-m rowing in male athletes.
Ostapiuk-Karolczuk J, Kasperska A, Dziewiecka H … +6 more , Cichoń-Woźniak J, Reysner M, Gruszka W, Basta P, Kaczmarczyk S, Skarpańska-Stejnborn A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371078 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The 6000-m rowing ergometer test represents a prolonged maximal effort commonly used in elite rowing; however, its physiological responses are less well characterized than those observed during the standard 2000...
PURPOSE: The 6000-m rowing ergometer test represents a prolonged maximal effort commonly used in elite rowing; however, its physiological responses are less well characterized than those observed during the standard 2000-m race-distance format. This study aimed to examine acute endocrine and neuromodulatory responses to a maximal 6000-m rowing test in elite male rowers. METHODS: Nineteen elite male rowers performed a maximal 6000-m rowing ergometer test. Venous blood samples were collected before exercise (PRE), immediately after exercise (POST), and after 1 h of recovery (1-h REC). Serum concentrations of cortisol, testosterone, serotonin, dopamine, β-endorphin, anandamide, and 2-arachidonoylglycerol were determined. Testosterone-to-cortisol and serotonin-to-dopamine ratios were calculated. Achievement motivation was assessed before exercise to describe task engagement. RESULTS: Cortisol concentrations did not change across time points. Testosterone decreased at POST and increased above baseline at 1-h REC, resulting in corresponding changes in the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio. Serotonin concentrations decreased after exercise and remained reduced during recovery, whereas dopamine increased at POST and remained elevated at 1-h REC, leading to a reduced serotonin-to-dopamine ratio. β-Endorphin increased after exercise and remained elevated during recovery. Anandamide concentrations did not change significantly, while 2-arachidonoylglycerol showed a transient post-exercise decrease. Achievement motivation was not associated with acute physiological responses. CONCLUSION: Prolonged maximal rowing induced a physiological response characterized by distinct temporal patterns of endocrine and peripheral neuromodulatory markers during early recovery. These responses differ from those typically observed during race-distance testing and may contribute to the characterization of early post-exercise responses following prolonged maximal rowing exercise.
Skeletal muscle microvascular and respiratory responses to exercise in healthy and T2D adults: agreement and reproducibility study of NIRS technologies.
Luco AA, Gram M, Ramakers I … +5 more , Ryan T, Enriquez O, Faulkner J, Stoner L, Rowlands DS
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371077 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Continuous wave (CW) near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is widely used in skeletal muscle tissue hemodynamic and respiratory research utilizing fixed light scattering assumptions. PURPOSE: Compare reproducib...
INTRODUCTION: Continuous wave (CW) near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is widely used in skeletal muscle tissue hemodynamic and respiratory research utilizing fixed light scattering assumptions. PURPOSE: Compare reproducibility and technical characteristics of CW-NIRS against frequency-domain (FD)-NIRS, which allows for intra-individual scattering correction. METHODS: Muscle blood flow (mBF) and oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) (using rapid-occlusions), and perfusion were assessed with NIRS in 10 healthy (ND) and 10 type-2 diabetic (T2D) men at rest and during knee extensions at 5% and 15% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) on three occasions within 10 days. RESULTS: In both groups, exercise responses for mBF and [Formula: see text] were not substantially different between technology with moderate-high between-day reproducibility (ICC range 0.72-0.98). However, compared to FD-NIRS, CW-NIRS perfusion substantially higher at rest (21 uM; 90%CI 29-13), 5%MVC (18 uM; 27-9) and 15%MVC (17 uM; 26-8) in T2D, but not ND. Standardized typical errors during exercise were small-moderate: e.g., 15%MVC mBF, CW-NIRS (ND 0.45; T2D 0.49), FD-NIRS (0.35; 0.49); mV̇O, CW-NIRS (0.24; 0.26), FD-NIRS (0.45; 0.32); perfusion CW-NIRS (0.25; 0.25) and FD-NIRS (0.25; 0.23); and, not different between groups and technology. CONCLUSION: Both NIRS technologies are reproducible. CW-NIRS assumptions work for muscle blood flow and oxygen use at rest and during exercise. FD-NIRS might be better at detecting changes in perfusion during exercise, especially in older or clinical groups. However, FD-NIRS is more expensive and complex, making it less practical.
Age-dependent effects of aerobic training on cardiac expression of Akt1, mTOR, and CITED4 in immature, young-adult, and middle-aged rat myocardium.
Haji Asiabani P, Ghasemnian AA, Karimi Asl A … +1 more , Wong A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371076 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Cardiac plasticity declines with age; however, mechanisms underlying aerobic training (AT)-induced cardiac remodeling across developmental stages remain unclear. Exercise-induced hypertrophy is mediated by PI3K/...
PURPOSE: Cardiac plasticity declines with age; however, mechanisms underlying aerobic training (AT)-induced cardiac remodeling across developmental stages remain unclear. Exercise-induced hypertrophy is mediated by PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling and its downstream effector CITED4, but whether these pathways respond uniformly across age is unknown. This study investigated age-dependent effects of AT on the Akt1/mTOR/CITED4 axis in rat myocardium. METHODS: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were assigned to three age cohorts: immature (4-5 weeks), young-adult (18-20 weeks) and middle-aged (41-42 weeks). Animals were randomly allocated within each age stratum to either control or exercise groups (n = 8/group) and completed 8 weeks of running-wheel training. Ventricular Akt1, mTOR, and CITED4 mRNA expression was quantified by qRT-PCR. Relative expression was determined using the 2 method, and statistics were performed on log₂-transformed 2 values using two-way ANOVA. RESULTS: AT elicited age-dependent transcriptional responses in myocardium. A significant Age × Exercise interaction was observed for Akt1 expression (p = 0.011), with post hoc analysis showing increased expression only in immature rats (p = 0.001). In contrast, mTOR expression increased with exercise regardless of age (main effect of Exercise, p < 0.001). CITED4 expression also showed a significant Age × Exercise interaction (p < 0.001), indicating differential responsiveness to aerobic training across developmental stages. CONCLUSION: AT induces age-dependent cardiac adaptations. Akt1 upregulation was restricted to immature rats, whereas mTOR expression increased irrespective of age. CITED4 showed marked age-dependent responsiveness to training. These findings suggest that the immature myocardium exhibits greater transcriptional sensitivity to aerobic exercise than later developmental stages.
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