European Journal Of Applied Physiology[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Relationship between medial gastrocnemius viscosity and rate of torque development: new insights into resting muscle viscoelasticity and rapid force production.
Adachi R, Kodesho T, Nakao G … +8 more , Nara G, Ishiyama K, Sekiguchi K, Sawano J, Hirayama S, Kida K, Ando R, Taniguchi K
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371075 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between medial gastrocnemius (MG) shear modulus and viscosity, as measured using shear wave elastography (SWE), and the capacity for rapid force production, speci...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between medial gastrocnemius (MG) shear modulus and viscosity, as measured using shear wave elastography (SWE), and the capacity for rapid force production, specifically the rate of torque development (RTD). METHODS: Twenty-nine healthy young men participated in this study. The passive shear modulus and viscosity (viscosity coefficient) of the MG were measured using SWE. Viscosity was quantified at 15° of plantarflexion, whereas shear modulus was measured at 0° and 15° of plantarflexion. Participants performed maximal isometric plantarflexion at 0°. RTD was calculated over 0-50 (RTD50) and 0-100 ms (RTD100) and was normalized to peak torque. The relationships between MG viscosity, MG shear modulus, RTD, and peak torque were analysed using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients. RESULTS: Viscosity at 15° of plantarflexion was significantly positively correlated with RTD50 (r = 0.507, p = 0.005) and RTD100 (r = 0.399, p = 0.032). Shear modulus at 0° of plantarflexion was also significantly correlated with RTD50 (r = 0.479, p = 0.009) and RTD100 (r = 0.377, p = 0.044). No significant correlations were found between peak torque and any viscoelastic parameters. Shear modulus at 15° of plantarflexion did not correlate with RTD. CONCLUSION: This study provides initial evidence that skeletal muscle viscosity may be crucial in determining rapid force production. In addition to acting as a property characterized by velocity-dependent resistance, muscle viscosity may contribute to stable and efficient force transmission during the initial phase of contraction.
Sex differences in NIRS-derived reactive hyperemia across protocols and their association with muscle quality.
Ramos OJF, Veiga NS, da Costa PQ … +4 more , Rodrigues MCRS, Schenkel PC, Soares RN, Alvares TS
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371074 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Sex-related differences in microvascular reactivity may be influenced by the magnitude of muscle desaturation (ischemic stimulus) during the blood flow occlusion period. Thus, this study used near-infrared...
INTRODUCTION: Sex-related differences in microvascular reactivity may be influenced by the magnitude of muscle desaturation (ischemic stimulus) during the blood flow occlusion period. Thus, this study used near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to assess skeletal muscle microvascular reactivity in three distinct metabolic and mechanical conditions. METHODS: Nineteen participants (10 males, 9 females) completed a randomized parallel design including a vascular occlusion test (VOT), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and a dynamic fatigue exercise protocol (FEx) to elicit ischemic, mechanic and metabolic insults, respectively. Morphological muscle quality was also assessed using ultrasonography. NIRS-derived indices of tissue oxygenation and blood volume were continuously monitored. RESULTS: Males exhibited a greater post-exercise total hemoglobin reperfusion slope ([tHb] slope) across protocols compared with females (p < 0.05). In males, higher morphological muscle quality was associated with a steeper reperfusion slope (p < 0.05), whereas no such relationships were observed in females. CONCLUSION: Sex differences in microvascular reactivity were evident across ischemic, isometric, and dynamic exercise conditions, with oxygen extraction only partially accounting for sex differences in microvascular reactivity in highly metabolic demand condition such as FEx. Our findings also suggest that the greater microvascular reactivity in males may be linked to better morphological muscle quality compared to females, thus providing novel insights into the mechanisms driving the accelerated reperfusion rates observed in males compared to females.
Differential temporal responses of heel strike and toe off during split-belt locomotor adaptation.
Hirata K, Kubota K, Hanawa H … +2 more , Miyazawa T, Kanemura N
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371073 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Human walking must maintain temporal coordination while adapting to perturbations. However, it remains unclear whether different gait events show similar or distinct temporal responses during adaptive walking. U...
PURPOSE: Human walking must maintain temporal coordination while adapting to perturbations. However, it remains unclear whether different gait events show similar or distinct temporal responses during adaptive walking. Using split-belt treadmill walking as a model of asymmetric temporal perturbation, we examined inter-event timing variability for heel strike (HS) and toe off (TO) in healthy young adult males. METHODS: Variability was quantified as the coefficient of variation (CV) of inter-event intervals during baseline walking, early adaptation, and late adaptation. To assess perturbation-related temporal responses, we also calculated baseline-referenced changes in variability (ΔCV) and their magnitude (|ΔCV|). RESULTS: HS exhibited higher absolute timing variability across walking phases and larger baseline-referenced changes during split-belt walking. In contrast, TO showed comparatively lower variability and smaller deviations from baseline in the present analysis. Double-support time symmetry was also altered during early adaptation and partially recovered later, indicating concurrent reorganization of whole-gait temporal coordination. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that gait events do not contribute uniformly to temporal adjustment during split-belt walking. Event-specific analysis of baseline-referenced variability may therefore provide a useful perspective for describing temporal responses to locomotor perturbation.
Gastrocnemius medialis muscle architecture and its relationship with countermovement jump performance differ between male academy soccer players and control participants.
Robshaw DC, Murtagh CF, Drust B … +1 more , Erskine RM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371072 · Publisher ↗
The aims of this study were to investigate gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle properties in male academy soccer players (ASP) and age- and sex-matched control participants (CON); and to explore the relationships between...
The aims of this study were to investigate gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle properties in male academy soccer players (ASP) and age- and sex-matched control participants (CON); and to explore the relationships between GM characteristics and jump performance. Thirty-four participants (ASP, n = 22, age 18.8 ± 1.4 years, height 1.82 ± 0.08 m, mass 75.1 ± 5.9 kg; and CON, n = 12, 22.2 ± 2.9 years, 1.75 ± 0.05 m, 71.6 ± 7.4 kg) completed the following assessments: ultrasound measurements of GM anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA), volume, muscle thickness (MT), fascicle pennation angle (θ) and fascicle length (L); isokinetic dynamometry measurements of isometric plantar flexion and dorsiflexion maximum voluntary torque; and unilateral and bilateral, vertical and horizontal, countermovement jumps (CMJ), and bilateral drop jumps on a force platform. θ (17.4° ± 2.5° vs. 14.3° ± 1.2°, P < 0.001); unilateral horizontal CMJ peak power (30.14 ± 3.53 vs. 23.18 ± 3.72 W kg); and projectile range during unilateral (104 ± 16 vs. 89 ± 12 cm, P = 0.006) and bilateral (140 ± 14 vs. 129 ± 14 cm, P = 0.041) horizontal CMJ were greater in ASP vs. CON. In ASP alone, L correlated inversely with vertical CMJ performance but positively with horizontal CMJ performance (R ≥ 0.200, P ≤ 0.042). Conversely, θ correlated positively with vertical CMJ performance but inversely with horizontal CMJ performance (R ≥ 0.194, P ≤ 0.044). In CON only, ACSA, MT, volume and L all correlated inversely with vertical CMJ performance (R ≥ 0.366, P ≤ 0.037). The opposing θ and L correlations with vertical and horizontal CMJ jump performance in ASP suggest GM architecture influences CMJ performance in a direction-specific manner in this population, while the different correlation patterns between ASP and CON suggest that GM architecture contributes to CMJ performance differently in these two populations.
Effects of verification stage intensity and duration on [Formula: see text] determination.
Foster A, Dennis EJ, Kurti SP … +3 more , Luden ND, Saunders MJ, Womack CJ
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371071 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Verification stages are recommended for maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O) determination, but there is currently no standardization of verification stage design. We sought to determine if the length of recovery an...
PURPOSE: Verification stages are recommended for maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O) determination, but there is currently no standardization of verification stage design. We sought to determine if the length of recovery and the initial intensity of subsequent exercise influence the effectiveness of verification stages during testing for V̇O. METHODS: Twenty-seven participants (20 males, 7 females) completed four graded exercise tests (GXT). Each session included an identical incremental V̇O (iV̇O) protocol, followed by one of four verification stages with combinations of short (5 min) and long (15 min) rest periods, and submaximal (one stage below maximal workload) and supramaximal (one stage above maximal workload) starting intensities. RESULTS: Although iV̇O and verification V̇O (vV̇O) were similar across all protocols, 11-19% of participants achieved higher values during verification. About 24% of individuals who did not exhibit a V̇O plateau during the GXT exhibited a vV̇O > iV̇O in the submaximal verification protocols compared to 6-14% for the supramaximal protocols. CONCLUSIONS: Verification stages using initial submaximal intensities may increase the likelihood of achieving V̇O.
Bypassing the systemic cardiorespiratory threshold: neuromuscular electrical stimulation elicits a SPARC response through accelerated glycolytic flux.
Miyamoto T, Malone J, O'Connor D … +2 more , Katsuno T, Caulfield B
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371070 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a myokine with potential tumor-suppressive properties. SPARC secretion typically requires vigorous-intensity exercise. Neuromuscular electrical stimulat...
BACKGROUND: Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a myokine with potential tumor-suppressive properties. SPARC secretion typically requires vigorous-intensity exercise. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) non-selectively recruits glycolytic Type II muscle fibers, potentially inducing intense localized metabolic stress despite a low systemic cardiorespiratory demand. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of a single bout of NMES at an intensity corresponding to the first ventilatory threshold (VT) on circulating SPARC levels in healthy young subjects. METHODS: Thirteen healthy men (21.0 ± 0.7 years) participated in a randomized crossover study: Control (rest) and 30 min NMES at the maximum tolerable intensity with a heart rate (HR) ceiling 120% of VT. Serum SPARC, lactate, and glucose levels were measured before and after each session. RESULTS: NMES significantly increased serum SPARC (616.0 ± 200.9 to 739.2 ± 279.8 ng/mL, p = 0.0078, d = 0.61) and blood lactate (1.4 ± 0.4 to 4.8 ± 1.5 mmol/L, p < 0.0001, d = 8.42) levels while reducing glucose levels (p = 0.0377, d = - 0.92). The correlation between Δ SPARC and Δ Lactate (r = 0.37, p = 0.21) showed a positive trend consistent with the effect size observed in a previous high-intensity exercise study. CONCLUSION: NMES at VT intensity increases circulating SPARC levels by bypassing the systemic cardiorespiratory threshold via accelerated glycolytic flux and subsequent lactate accumulation. This study provides a physiological framework for NMES as a potential strategy to induce SPARC responses in populations where strenuous volitional exertion is limited. TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN-CTR (UMIN000060258).
Effect of 12-week dynamic stretching of hamstrings on joint flexibility and musculoskeletal properties.
Ikeda N, Hiratsuka K, Inami T … +1 more , Isaka T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371069 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12‑week hamstrings dynamic stretching (DS) program on joint flexibility, muscle strength, and musculoskeletal properties in the stretched limb, with the non‑stretched...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12‑week hamstrings dynamic stretching (DS) program on joint flexibility, muscle strength, and musculoskeletal properties in the stretched limb, with the non‑stretched limb assessed for comparison. METHODS: The study comprised 18 healthy young adults (12 males, 6 females) who performed hamstrings DS on one leg three times per week for 12 weeks, with the contralateral leg serving as the control. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included knee extension range of motion (KEROM), peak passive torque during KEROM (stretch tolerance), muscle stiffness, and knee flexor strength. Muscle stiffness was evaluated using shear-wave elastography targeting the biceps femoris (BF). Knee flexor strength was assessed using the rate of torque development (RTD) and isokinetic knee flexion torque. RESULTS: KEROM significantly increased in the DS condition (p = 0.025; d = 0.61), with no significant change in the control condition (p = 0.55; d = 0.15). Peak passive torque significantly increased following DS (p = 0.041; d = 0.68), with no change in the contralateral limb (p = 0.21; d = 0.21). BF stiffness significantly decreased in the DS condition and remained unchanged in the contralateral limb (70° knee flexion: DS, p < 0.01, d = 0.79; control, p = 0.30, d = 0.30; 50° knee flexion: DS, p = 0.044, d = 0.55; control, p = 0.18, d = 0.34. RTD and isokinetic knee flexion strength did not change significantly in either condition. CONCLUSION: Twelve weeks of hamstrings DS enhanced stretch tolerance, reduced muscle stiffness, and improved joint flexibility in the stretched limb, with no notable changes observed in the contralateral limb. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Name of trial registry Effects of training and conditioning methods on mechanical properties of skeletal muscle Identifying number (URL) UMIN000051819 ( https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000058080 ) Date of registration 5th Aug 2023.
Sex-based differences in central and cerebral hemodynamic responses to lower body negative pressure (LBNP): an experimental study.
Tripoli F, Ridolfi L, Romanelli M … +3 more , Rabbito R, Roatta S, Scarsoglio S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371068 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The effectiveness of lower body negative pressure (LBNP) as an in-flight countermeasure against cardiovascular deconditioning is still debated, with significant gaps in understanding cerebral hemodynamics and se...
PURPOSE: The effectiveness of lower body negative pressure (LBNP) as an in-flight countermeasure against cardiovascular deconditioning is still debated, with significant gaps in understanding cerebral hemodynamics and sex-related differences. This study investigates acute central, peripheral, and cerebral responses to graded LBNP during exposure to -6° head-down tilt posture (HDT) in 30 subjects (15 females, 15 males). METHODS: Central and peripheral hemodynamic variables (heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac output, and total peripheral resistance) were continuously and non-invasively measured using finger photo-plethysmography along with NIRS parameters from the forearm and the forehead, and cerebral blood velocities within the middle and posterior cerebral arteries (MCA and PCA). The protocol included a 15-min baseline phase in -6° HDT followed by three 5-min levels of LBNP (from -20 to -40 mmHg). RESULTS: LBNP primarily affected central and peripheral hemodynamics. At the cerebral level, significant changes in cerebral blood velocity and Beer-Lambert NIRS parameters were detected, while spatially resolved spectroscopy NIRS variables did not show significant changes. Sex differences were observed in blood pressure, total peripheral resistance, and forearm NIRS parameters, whereas at the cerebral level, sex had a significant effect only on the cerebrovascular conductance of the PCA (CVC). CONCLUSION: Our main findings highlight: (i) comparable anterior and posterior cerebral responses, as both blood velocities in the MCA and PCA exhibited a similar decreasing trend at higher LBNP values; and (ii) sex differences occurring primarily in systemic and peripheral cardiovascular responses.
Acute neuromuscular and metabolic responses to a novel low-load combined isometric and isotonic resistance training protocol.
Sugano T, Nomura T, Yoshie Y … +3 more , Fujita K, Hayashi K, Hayashi S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371067 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the acute physiological responses to a novel combined resistance training (CB) protocol-integrating isometric pre-exhaustion with low-load, high-velocity, short-arc isotonic contractions-...
PURPOSE: This study investigated the acute physiological responses to a novel combined resistance training (CB) protocol-integrating isometric pre-exhaustion with low-load, high-velocity, short-arc isotonic contractions-and compared them with low-intensity slow training (LST) and high-load (HL) training. METHODS: Forty-eight healthy men were randomly assigned to one of three groups: LST (50% one-repetition maximum [1RM], slow tempo), HL (80% 1RM, normal tempo), or CB (40% 1RM; a 20-s isometric contraction followed by eight high-velocity, short-arc repetitions). Surface electromyography (EMG) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) of the vastus lateralis, alongside serum IGF-1 concentrations, were assessed during and following three leg-press sets. RESULTS: Despite utilizing a 40% 1RM load, the CB protocol elicited mean EMG amplitudes significantly greater than LST during the final set (p = 0.009, g = 1.23). NIRS analysis demonstrated a significantly lower change in tissue oxygen saturation (ΔStO) in the CB group compared to HL from the initial set (p = 0.001; g = 1.19), highlighting rapid intramuscular hypoxia. Furthermore, third-set integrated EMG was significantly higher in CB than in both HL (p = 0.002, g = 1.13) and LST (p < 0.001, g = 1.63). Serum IGF-1 concentrations exhibited a significant post-exercise elevation across all groups (main effect of time: p < 0.001, η = 0.712). CONCLUSION: By concurrently demanding high neural drive and inducing profound metabolic stress, the time-efficient CB protocol provides a robust physiological stimulus despite minimal mechanical loading. This approach serves as a practical, joint-friendly alternative for populations necessitating reduced mechanical stress. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: UMIN-CTR (UMIN000060486).
Personalized blood flow restriction training at variable occlusion pressures improves multisystem function in overweight and obese older women.
Qian H, Choi H
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371066 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the effects of 12-week low-intensity blood flow restriction (BFR) training at different arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) levels on cardiopulmonary, immune, muscular, and metabolic functions in ov...
This study investigated the effects of 12-week low-intensity blood flow restriction (BFR) training at different arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) levels on cardiopulmonary, immune, muscular, and metabolic functions in overweight and obese older women. A total of 180 community-dwelling women aged ≥ 60 years with body mass index ≥ 25.0 kg/m² were randomly allocated to BFR training groups at 50%, 60%, or 70% AOP or a control group performing identical exercises without pressure. Participants completed supervised training sessions three times weekly for 12 weeks. BFR training induced significant improvements across all physiological systems, with dose-dependent responses correlating with AOP levels. The 70% AOP group demonstrated the greatest reductions in inflammatory markers (IL-6: -28.4%; hs-CRP: -35.7%), the largest gains in muscle hypertrophy (quadriceps thickness: +10.2%), and the most pronounced improvements in metabolic parameters (HOMA-IR: -25.0%). Obese women showed greater absolute improvements in inflammatory and metabolic markers compared to overweight participants. Most improvements were maintained at 24-week follow-up, particularly anti-inflammatory effects in the higher pressure group. The findings establish 60-70% AOP as the optimal range for maximizing multi-system adaptations while maintaining safety. BFR training represents a safe and effective low-load exercise modality for older women, offering comprehensive physiological benefits with high adherence rates (90.7-93.1%) and a low rate of minor adverse events (12.2%), none requiring medical intervention, with 60% AOP recommended as the optimal starting pressure and 70% AOP for individuals requiring maximal cardiometabolic benefits. These findings have potential implications for populations with treatment-related deconditioning, including cancer survivors, though further investigation is warranted.
Rates of maximal blood lactate accumulation in the extreme intensity exercise domain: implications for training prescription.
Ozkaya O, As H, Peker A … +2 more , Burnley M, Jones AM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42371065 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the rate of blood lactate accumulation (vLa) across six maximal sprint efforts and identified a breakpoint (vLa) in the vLa-power relationship. METHODS: Twelve physically active males com...
PURPOSE: This study investigated the rate of blood lactate accumulation (vLa) across six maximal sprint efforts and identified a breakpoint (vLa) in the vLa-power relationship. METHODS: Twelve physically active males completed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30-s all-out sprints in randomised order on separate days, with resistances set at 10 to 12.5% of body mass. The vLa was calculated as the change in blood lactate between the resting and peak value (∆La) divided by the test duration. A piecewise linear regression was used to identify the vLa and its corresponding power output (P-vLa) in the vLa-power relationship. Pulmonary V̇O responses were modelled using V̇O data obtained from exercise and the subsequent 15-min recovery period. RESULTS: A distinct P-vLa was identified at 795 ± 135 W and 11.2 ± 1.5 W·kg, corresponding to a vLa of 0.50 ± 0.10 mM·s, ∆La of 6.50 ± 1.27 mM, and sprint duration of 13.3 ± 1.9 s. The vLa did not increase significantly during the 30, 25, 20, and 15-s all-out sprint tests (0.41 ± 0.04 to 0.48 ± 0.10 mM·s⁻; p > 0.05) but increased markedly in the 10 and 5-s tests (0.58 ± 0.14 mM·s⁻, p < 0.05; 0.7 ± 0.20 mM·s⁻, p < 0.01). V̇O on-kinetics below the P-vLa (30 and 15 s) was best described by linear function (R ≥ 0.96; SEE ≤ 272 mL·min; p < 0.001), while the V̇O data could not be modelled for sprints performed above the P-vLa (10 and 5 s). CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that the P-vLa separates ranges of power outputs with discrete V̇O kinetics which are characteristic of different subzones within the extreme intensity exercise domain.
The influence of mouth pressure on the cardiovascular response during inspiratory muscle loading at a constant transdiaphragmatic pressure.
Lance ML, Thrall SF, Thompson BP … +9 more , Mann LM, Chang JC, Taylor KM, Navarro Solano NM, Gorsline MJ, Wilson RJA, Day TA, Dominelli PB, Foster GE
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42319449 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate whether the cardiovascular response during inspiratory pressure-threshold loading (ITL) is augmented by higher mouth pressure (P) when transdiaphragmatic pressure is maintained, and whether greate...
PURPOSE: To investigate whether the cardiovascular response during inspiratory pressure-threshold loading (ITL) is augmented by higher mouth pressure (P) when transdiaphragmatic pressure is maintained, and whether greater negative intrathoracic pressure increases intra-breath fluctuations in mean arterial pressure (MAP). METHODS: Sixteen healthy participants (6 females) completed two, 5-min ITL tasks while targeting a transdiaphragmatic pressure of 65 cmHO, breathing rate of 15 breaths/min, and duty cycle of 0.7. In one task, absolute P was low (20-30 cmHO; low P task), while in the other task it was higher (40-50 cmHO; high P task). RESULTS: Both tasks resulted in an increase in heart rate (HR; low P: + 13 [95% Confidence Interval: 7,19] beats/min; high P: + 15 [9,21] beats/min; P < 0.0001] and MAP (low P: + 12 [5,19] mmHg; high P: + 11 [4,18] mmHg; P < 0.0001). For the high P task, the HR response was greater (+ 3 [2,5] beats/min; P < 0.0001), the MAP response was lower (-2 [-4,0] mmHg; P = 0.0209), and there was a greater inspiratory-expiratory MAP difference (P = 0.0009), compared to the low P task. CONCLUSION: Increasing P during ITL elicited a greater HR response and a blunted MAP response. The smaller changes in MAP during inspiration compared to expiration during the high compared to low P task may suggest an influence of negative intrathoracic pressure on cardiac loading. Future studies are required to determine how cardiac output changes with increases in P.
Diet-induced thermogenesis does not differ after ingestion of an isoenergetic meal, whereas early-phase thermogenesis differed between athletes and non-athletes.
Goshozono M, Miura N, Ishizu T … +3 more , Torii S, Hayashi N, Taguchi M
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42319448 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Habitual exercise is considered to be one of the factors that influence diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT). Still, whether DIT differs between athletes and non-athletes remains unclear due to the effects of test m...
PURPOSE: Habitual exercise is considered to be one of the factors that influence diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT). Still, whether DIT differs between athletes and non-athletes remains unclear due to the effects of test meal's volume and nutritional composition. This study aimed to reveal whether the DIT of athletes differs from that of non-athletes after ingesting an isoenergetic meal with a typical nutritional composition in Japan. METHODS: Twenty-six highly trained male athletes and 11 male non-athletes participated in this study. Measurements for determining DIT consisted of measurements of resting energy expenditure (REE) and postprandial energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry using the Douglas bag technique. After measuring REE, participants ingested a liquid test meal (600 kcal, 15% energy from protein, 25% energy from fat, and 60% energy from carbohydrates). Postprandial energy expenditure was measured up to 180 min. Thermogenesis at each postprandial time point was calculated by subtracting REE from postprandial energy expenditure. DIT over the 200-min period was determined from the area under the curve. RESULTS: The results showed no significant differences in DIT and the percentage of DIT to test meal energy over the 200-min period. The thermogenesis at 20, 40, and 60 min after ingestion of the test meal were 27.5%, 25.8%, and 27.0% greater in athletes than in non-athletes, respectively. CONCLUSION: There were no differences in DIT between athletes and non-athletes, but thermogenesis was significantly higher in athletes during the first 60 min of the DIT measurement, indicating differences in digestion, absorption, or storage of nutrients.
Effect of repetition tempo on cardiovascular and metabolic stress when training to muscle failure during lower body exercise.
Xia S, Wang Y, Zhang X … +2 more , Ji Y, Wen X
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42319447 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of different repetitions tempos on volume load (VL), time under tension (TUT), energy metabolism and muscle oxygenation indices during lower limb resistance training...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of different repetitions tempos on volume load (VL), time under tension (TUT), energy metabolism and muscle oxygenation indices during lower limb resistance training (RT) performed to muscle failure. METHODS: In a repeated-measures, crossover design, 30 resistance-trained men (n = 22) and women (n = 8) performed three sets of barbell squats under the following conditions: traditional tempo (TRAD: trained to muscle failure with 2-s eccentric and 1-s concentric) and slow tempo (SLOW: trained to muscle failure with 4-s eccentric and 2-s concentric). The VL, TUT, energy expenditure (EE), heart rate (HR), respiratory quotient (RQ), net carbon dioxide release (nVCO) and muscle oxygen saturation (SmO) were measured. RESULTS: Total VL (p < 0.001) and HR (p < 0.001) were significantly greater in the TRAD group, whereas total TUT (p < 0.001), nVCO (p = 0.043), and the area under the muscle oxygenation curve (∑SmO2) of the SLOW group were significantly higher (p < 0.001). No significant differences in EE and RQ were found between the groups. CONCLUSION: When effort is equated by training to muscle failure, a fast repetition rhythm maximizes cardiovascular pressure and total VL. Conversely, a slow repetition rhythm extends TUT and muscle hypoxia time and increases anaerobic metabolic pressure.
Investigation of brain activation and functional connectivity characteristics following tennis-induced acute fatigue: evidence from fNIRS.
Chen X, Song Y, Chen C … +3 more , Chen J, Ye Z, Cao C
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42313112 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in cognition, anaerobic power, and corresponding cerebral cortex activation characteristics and functional connectivity (FC) following fatigue induced by an acute simulated tennis ma...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in cognition, anaerobic power, and corresponding cerebral cortex activation characteristics and functional connectivity (FC) following fatigue induced by an acute simulated tennis match. METHODS: Eighteen healthy adult male tennis enthusiasts (tennis experience: 5 ± 1.4 years, age: 24.5 ± 2.4 years) participated in this study. The participants performed a 90-minute simulated tennis match to induce fatigue. Behavioral data from 2-back task and Wingate tests were collected at three time points: pre-fatigue, immediately post-fatigue, and 1-hour post-fatigue. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was simultaneously used to measure oxyhemoglobin (HbO) levels and 3-minute resting-state FC in the frontal and parietal lobes. RESULTS: At 1-hour post-fatigue, 2-back reaction times (RT) increased compared to pre-fatigue, with no significant change in accuracy. During the 2-back task, HbO levels decreased in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (R-DLPFC) at both post-fatigue time points, whereas frontopolar area (FPA) reductions were more evident at 1-hour post-fatigue. The R-DLPFC was found to play a more critical role in cognitive tasks than the L-DLPFC, and an increase in RT was observed to be negatively correlated with HbO in the R-DLPFC. Peak power and average power output declined immediately and 1-hour post-fatigue compared to pre-fatigue. During the Wingate test, HbO reductions were observed in the R-DLPFC and R-PMSMC at both post-fatigue time points, and in the L-PMSMC at 1-hour post-fatigue. FC decreased more prominently 1-hour post-fatigue, marked by reduced connection strength in specific regions of interest and channels. CONCLUSION: The decline in cognitive and physical performance following tennis-induced fatigue is accompanied by decreased cerebral HbO and FC. This reduction in HbO may indicate a decreased supply of oxygen to the brain and lower levels of brain activation, which could be crucial factors influencing both central and peripheral fatigue during tennis fatigue.
Short-term administration of L-citrulline augments cardiac vagal control and reduces blood pressure in response to high-intensity exercise in untreated hypertensive males.
Boroujeny ZHM, Soltani M, Bassami M … +4 more , Kingsley JD, Farizani FS, Ahamadizad S, Laher I
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42313111 · Publisher ↗
High-intensity exercise (HIE) improves cardiorespiratory fitness but also acutely increases autonomic and hemodynamic stress in hypertensive individuals. L-citrulline augments nitric-oxide bioavailability and buffers the...
High-intensity exercise (HIE) improves cardiorespiratory fitness but also acutely increases autonomic and hemodynamic stress in hypertensive individuals. L-citrulline augments nitric-oxide bioavailability and buffers these responses. We conducted a robust crossover trial in untreated hypertensive males (n = 12) to test whether short-term L-citrulline supplementation (6 g·day⁻¹ for 6 days) modifies cardio-autonomic and hemodynamic responses after HIE. Heart-rate variability (HRV), systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], mean arterial pressure [MAP]), heart rate (HR), pulse pressure (PP), and rate-pressure product (RPP) were assessed. Mixed-effects modelling indicated that L-citrulline improved cardio-autonomic regulation: high-frequency power (HF, an index of vagal modulation) was higher at rest and at 90-min recovery; time-domain index standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN, representing overall autonomic activity) was increased at rest; and low-frequency power (LF) and LF/HF ratios were lower across time (condition and condition × time effects, all p ≤ 0.005). L-citrulline reduced SBP at rest (- 18.7 mmHg, p ≤ 0.005) and immediately after exercise (- 26.3 mmHg, p ≤ 0.005); DBP and MAP were lower across the recovery period (all p < 0.001). HR was reduced from 15 to 90 min post-exercise values (p ≤ 0.005), and RPP was lower immediately post-exercise (p ≤ 0.005), indicating reduced myocardial oxygen demand during this period. PP was lower immediately post-exercise (p ≤ 0.005). Supplementation with L-citrulline for six days enhanced cardiovascular recovery after HIE by blunting surges in cardiac, and BP workload, and may assist in improving the clinical efficacy of HIE in hypertensive subjects.
Body mass index has consistent effects on the magnitude of gait variability while its effect on the temporal structure of gait variability is age-dependent.
Shakerian N, Kim SK, Wiles TM … +2 more , Stergiou N, Likens AD
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42313110 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: High body mass leads to changes in gait to accommodate the increased mechanical demands. Thus, previous research has examined how body mass affects gait variability (i.e., stride-to-stride fluctuations). However...
PURPOSE: High body mass leads to changes in gait to accommodate the increased mechanical demands. Thus, previous research has examined how body mass affects gait variability (i.e., stride-to-stride fluctuations). However, these studies have been focused on the magnitude (extent of these fluctuations) of gait variability, while the effects of body mass on the temporal structure (how fluctuations are organized over time) remain unexplored. This study examined how body mass, quantified using body mass index (BMI), affects both magnitude and temporal structure of gait variability in young (24.66 ± 2.79 years), middle-aged (45.77 ± 5.85 years), and older adults (64.70 ± 7.65 years). METHOD: We analyzed stride interval and stride length of 117 participants in NONAN GaitPrint dataset. Magnitude of gait variability was quantified using standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation (CoV). Temporal structure was assessed by Hurst exponent (H), which characterizes gait variability correlation over time. Linear mixed models examined the effects of BMI, age, and their interaction. RESULTS: Higher BMI significantly predicted greater magnitude of variability for both stride interval and stride length, independent of age. For the temporal structure, a significant interaction of BMI and age was observed for stride length H; higher BMI significantly predicted lower H in older adults (left: β = -0.293, p = 0.002; right: β = -0.231, p = 0.013) but not in young and middle-aged groups. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest BMI affects the temporal structure of gait variability is age-dependent, which may have implications for gait assessment in ageing populations.
Skeletal muscle histological remodeling precedes functional impairment in a muscle-specific manner following monocrotaline-induced heart failure in rats.
Kaneguchi A, Fukunaga M, Nishimura M … +7 more , Takagi R, Yamamoto S, Yukitomo A, Honma H, Umehara T, Yamaoka K, Ozawa J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42313109 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Skeletal muscle remodeling in heart failure contributes to exercise intolerance and muscle weakness, but the temporal relationship between histological alterations and functional impairment remains poorly unders...
PURPOSE: Skeletal muscle remodeling in heart failure contributes to exercise intolerance and muscle weakness, but the temporal relationship between histological alterations and functional impairment remains poorly understood. We aimed to clarify whether histological changes in skeletal muscle precede the onset of functional impairment. METHODS: Rats were allocated into either a normal control group (n = 21) or a monocrotaline-induced heart failure group (n = 42) and evaluated at 1, 2, or 4 weeks after injection. We assessed motor function (grip strength and exhaustive running), organ weights, and histological changes in three hindlimb muscles: the soleus (predominantly slow-twitch), the medial head of the gastrocnemius (superficial fast-twitch and deep mixed-fiber regions), and the plantaris (predominantly fast-twitch). RESULTS: Heart failure rats exhibited pulmonary congestion at 1 week, followed by progressive right ventricular hypertrophy from 2 to 4 weeks. Overt declines in exercise tolerance and a downward trend in grip strength became apparent at 4 weeks. Notably, reductions in the capillary-to-fiber ratio were detected in the deep gastrocnemius and plantaris as early as 1 week, and in the superficial gastrocnemius at 2 weeks. In contrast, muscle fiber atrophy in these muscles generally manifested later (at 2 or 4 weeks). In the soleus, both capillary loss and fiber atrophy were delayed until 4 weeks. CONCLUSION: Microcirculatory disturbances and subsequent fiber atrophy, particularly in fast-twitch-dominant muscles, precede functional impairments, such as reduced grip strength and exercise intolerance. Early comprehensive management before functional deficits become apparent may be necessary to mitigate heart failure-associated skeletal muscle impairment.
Expert consensus on passive heating interventions to promote skeletal muscle strength and mass: a delphi study.
Lemos E, Stewart IB, Rodrigues P … +11 more , Morrison SA, Wharton L, Tyler CJ, Cheung SS, Racinais S, Gordon RJFH, Lloyd A, Périard JD, Goto K, Trajano GS, Minett GM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42295379 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Passive heating has emerged as a potential non‑exercise method to support muscle strength and mass, but its application is limited by inconsistent protocols and unclear dosage and safety guidelines. This study u...
PURPOSE: Passive heating has emerged as a potential non‑exercise method to support muscle strength and mass, but its application is limited by inconsistent protocols and unclear dosage and safety guidelines. This study used a Delphi methodology to establish expert consensus on key parameters for passive heating interventions targeting neuromuscular and muscle morphology outcomes. METHODS: An international panel of academic experts (≥ 3 peer‑reviewed publications in passive heating and neuromuscular function) completed a two‑round Delphi process. Round 1 gathered open‑ended responses on passive heating strategies, intervention targets, and safety. In Round 2, experts ranked the importance of generated statements. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% ranking a statement as either first or second in importance. RESULTS: Eleven experts completed Round 1 and ten in Round 2. From 177 qualitative responses, 130 statements were evaluated, with 11 reaching consensus (80-100% agreement; interquartile range = 0-1). Hot‑water immersion was prioritised as the most optimal passive heating modality. Experts agreed on targeting muscle temperatures of 39-40 °C, ~ 60-minute session durations, and once‑daily exposure as key intervention parameters. Strong consensus was also reached for monitoring core temperature and cardiovascular strain (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure) to ensure participant safety. No consensus was reached on a single target population or the total intervention duration. CONCLUSION: This Delphi study provides a consensus‑based framework outlining key parameters and safety considerations for passive heating interventions. These findings do not establish efficacy but identify priority variables to inform future experimental research and cautious translation into applied and clinical contexts.
The validity and utility of the all-out test for forearm flexor critical force.
Boklaschuk P, MacDougall K, MacInnis M
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42287394 · Publisher ↗
An all-out test has been created to measure critical force (CF) of the forearm flexor muscles, but its suitability for rock climbing is unclear. We recruited 26 participants (14 male; 12 female), to assess the reliabilit...
An all-out test has been created to measure critical force (CF) of the forearm flexor muscles, but its suitability for rock climbing is unclear. We recruited 26 participants (14 male; 12 female), to assess the reliability and validity of the all-out CF test. Using a hang board and force plate, participants completed (i) two 4-min all out tests on separate days and (i) four constant-force tests to the limit of tolerance on two additional days. CF was greater in the all-out protocol (122 [56] N) compared to the constant-force protocol (98 [43] N), with excellent consistency between the two protocols (ICC(3,1) = 0.93, p < 0.001). In contrast, W' was not different between protocols (p = 0.120), but there was only moderate absolute agreement (ICC(2,1) = 0.65, p < 0 .001) between protocols. For the repeated all-out tests, there was excellent test-retest reliability for CF (ICC = 0.97, p < 0.001) and W' (ICC = 0.97, p < 0 .001). CF derived from the constant-force (rho = 0.60, p = 0.044) protocol was related to self-reported International Rock Climbing Research Association redpoint score from the previous 12 months, whereas the all-out CF (rho = 0.59, p = 0.05) and both measures of W' were not (p > 0.05). While potentially useful for tracking changes in forearm flexor performance, the all-out test does not accurately measure the highest sustainable intensity these muscles can perform, and it likely unsuitable for exercise prescription, limiting its utility in rock climbing.
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