European Journal Of Applied Physiology[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Why now? A physiological perspective on the first official sub-2-hour marathon.
Grivas GV
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42228160 · Publisher ↗
The first official sub-2-hour marathon provides a unique real-world case for re-examining the determinants of elite marathon performance. This Perspective argues that the key scientific issue is not whether human physiol...
The first official sub-2-hour marathon provides a unique real-world case for re-examining the determinants of elite marathon performance. This Perspective argues that the key scientific issue is not whether human physiology can theoretically support sub-2-hour running, but how physiological capacity can be preserved and expressed under late-race fatigue. Sabastian Sawe's 1:59:30 performance was marked by a 59:01 second half and, based on available split data, a 27:36 segment from 30 to 40 km, indicating late-race acceleration rather than simple pace maintenance. The wider front-group pattern, with Sawe, Kejelcha, and Kiplimo all completing the second half in approximately 60 min or faster, suggests that the barrier fell within a collective performance environment rather than through an isolated individual effort. The core interpretation is that the post-sub-2 era should be studied through fatigue resistance and race execution: the ability to preserve running economy, substrate availability, neuromuscular control, perceptual regulation, and tactical commitment after prolonged marathon-specific stress. High-rate carbohydrate delivery, gastrointestinal training, advanced footwear technology, buffering strategies, competitive proximity, and performance support systems are therefore interpreted not as separate explanations, but as interacting supports for late-race capacity expression. Advanced footwear likely contributed by reducing energetic cost and amplifying the expression of that capacity, although responses to such technology are variable and independent data on the exact shoe model remain limited. The first official sub-2-hour marathon should therefore be viewed neither as a purely physiological achievement nor as a technology-driven outcome, but as an extraordinary human performance expressed through an increasingly integrated athlete-technology-performance system.
Terminology missing distinction and implication: Nuances of physiological and performance durability.
Schwalm L, Schaffarczyk M, Fohrmann D … +2 more , Hollander K, Gronwald T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42228159 · Publisher ↗
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Cuminaldehyde alleviates rat diabetic tendinopathy and improves gait behavior via SOD restoration and AGER signaling axis inhibition.
Shojaee A, Mashayekhpour MA
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42228158 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Diabetic tendinopathy is an underrecognized complication of type 2 diabetes. Despite glycemic control with antidiabetic drugs, tendon structure and function often remain impaired. Plant-derived bioactive compoun...
PURPOSE: Diabetic tendinopathy is an underrecognized complication of type 2 diabetes. Despite glycemic control with antidiabetic drugs, tendon structure and function often remain impaired. Plant-derived bioactive compounds offer dual benefits by lowering blood glucose while targeting tendon-specific pathology. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms of cuminaldehyde (CA) on Achilles tendon properties in a type 2 diabetic rat model induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) combined with low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). METHODS: A total of 24 male white Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Control (non-diabetic), diabetic (HFD + 35 mg/kg STZ), diabetic rats treated with low-dose CA (5 mg/kg), diabetic rats treated with high-dose CA (10 mg/kg). After 2 weeks of diabetic induction, CA was given orally for 2 weeks. RESULTS: CA significantly ameliorated histological alterations in Achilles tendons and improved locomotor behavior in the open-field test. These effects were associated with restoration of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and suppression of AGER expression. SCX expression, which was initially reduced in diabetic rats, was restored following CA treatment in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION: CA demonstrates a high therapeutic potential in diabetic tendinopathy by restoring antioxidant defense and modulating AGER-related signaling pathways.
Resistance exercise with combined Valsalva manoeuvre acutely increases carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity in healthy untrained individuals.
Perry BG, Perry MJ, Dixon R … +2 more , Bush M, Ryan-Stewart H
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42213131 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The Valsalva manoeuvre (VM) may contribute to the observed increase in pulse wave velocity (PWV) following resistance exercise (RE). However, VM use during RE is rarely reported or discussed in the literature. W...
PURPOSE: The Valsalva manoeuvre (VM) may contribute to the observed increase in pulse wave velocity (PWV) following resistance exercise (RE). However, VM use during RE is rarely reported or discussed in the literature. We compared the acute carotid-femoral PWV response before and following RE with paced breathing, RE with a VM (REVM) and the VM alone. METHODS: 15 healthy RE-untrained participants (female = 8) (mean ± SD: age, 24 ± 5 years; height, 171.7 ± 10.9 cm; body mass 69.6 ± 14.5 kg) completed in a randomised order (1) RE: 3 sets of 10 repetitions of 4 RE exercises at 60% of 1RM with paced breathing (2) REVM: repetition of the RE requirements with a VM during each of the last 6 repetitions of each set (3) VM: 12 sets of 6, 3 s VMs at a mouth pressure of 40 mm Hg. PWV was measured pre- and post-condition, with mean middle cerebral artery blood velocity, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate, and partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide measured during each visit. RESULTS: An interaction effect for PWV (P = 0.024) was observed, with post hoc tests revealing increased PWV post REVM (P = 0.006, pre 5.4 ± 0.3 vs. post 6.1 ± 0.9 cm/s) and VM (P = 0.031, 5.7 ± 0.8 vs. 6.0 ± 1.0 cm/s), but not RE (P = 0.957, 5.7 ± 0.6 vs. 5.7 ± 0.8). REVM produced the greatest MAP increase from baseline (Δ37 ± 15 mm Hg, P < 0.05 vs. both RE and VM). CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that the VM contributes to the acute rise in post RE PWV when performed during RE and acutely increases PWV when performed repeatedly in isolation (Trial registration number ACTRN12624000876594, Date of registration 18/07/2024). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ACTRN12624000876594.
Evaluation of biological and psychometric variables in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities engaged in aquatic and land-based physical activities.
Kyriakidou G, Petridou A, Giagazoglou P … +2 more , Mougios V, Tsalis G
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42213130 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to examine the physiological and psychological responses to aquatic and land-based activities in children and adolescents with intellectual disability (ID) and/or autism spectrum disorde...
PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to examine the physiological and psychological responses to aquatic and land-based activities in children and adolescents with intellectual disability (ID) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: A total of 30 participants (21 male, 9 female), aged 11.8-18.6 years and diagnosed with ID and/or ASD, completed both a swimming session and a dryland activity session. Anthropometric data, biological maturation, and heart rate (HR) responses were recorded, including the lowest (HRlow), highest (HRhigh), and mean (HRmean) values during activity. Salivary cortisol and α-amylase concentrations were measured before and after each session. Participants' enjoyment and preference for physical activity were assessed using the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment and Preferences for Activities of Children questionnaires. RESULTS: HR responses did not differ significantly between activities. Cortisol decreased significantly following activity (from 0.105 ± 0.076 to 0.082 ± 0.076 µg/dL, p = 0.012), while α-amylase showed a non-significant decrease (from 157 ± 101 U/mL to 137 ± 112 U/mL, p = 0.094). Participants reported greater enjoyment of swimming than land-based activity (4.2 ± 1.0 vs. 2.5 ± 1.9, p < 0.001) and expressed a stronger preference for swimming (2.9 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.7, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Both swimming and land-based activities may serve as moderate-intensity activities that support reductions in physiological and psychological stress in children and adolescents with ID and ASD. Swimming appeared to be more enjoyable and preferred, possibly due to its calming environment and potential to enhance self-efficacy.
The impact of a 12-week high-intensity interval training program on popliteal vascular responses to prolonged sitting.
Liu H, Rayner SE, Schwartz BD … +4 more , Wu Y, Petterson JL, O'Brien MW, Kimmerly DS
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42213129 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: We examined the impact that 12-weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) had on aerobic fitness and popliteal artery endothelium-dependent (flow-mediated dilation, FMD) and -independent dilatory function...
PURPOSE: We examined the impact that 12-weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) had on aerobic fitness and popliteal artery endothelium-dependent (flow-mediated dilation, FMD) and -independent dilatory function (nitroglycerin-mediated dilation, NMD) in response to an acute bout of prolonged sitting. METHODS: Twenty-one healthy adults were assigned to HIIT (n = 11, 7♀, 24 ± 8 years) or Control groups (n = 10, 6♀, 22 ± 1 years). Popliteal artery FMD response to 5-min distal cuff occlusion and NMD were assessed via duplex ultrasonography before and after ~ 2-h of uninterrupted sitting. Peak oxygen consumption (relative V̇Opeak) was assessed using a maximal cycle ergometer protocol. All assessments were repeated following the HIIT (2 × 20-min bouts alternating between 15-s intervals at 100% of peak aerobic power and passive recovery) or Control (usual physical activity) periods. RESULTS: The 12-week HIIT intervention improved relative V̇Opeak (35.4 ± 7.8 to 39.5 ± 6.1 ml/kg/min, P = 0.005), with no changes observed in the Control group (P = 0.306). Pre-sitting popliteal artery FMD and NMD did not differ from Baseline to Follow-up in either group (all, P ≥ 0.173). In both groups, prolonged sitting attenuated FMD and NMD at Baseline and Follow-up (all, P ≤ 0.076). Sitting-induced changes in popliteal artery FMD (HIIT: -1.4 ± 2.6 to -1.7 ± 1.9%; Control: -2.9 ± 2.2 to -2.0 ± 2.3%) and NMD (HIIT: -3.1 ± 2.9 to -3.2 ± 2.5%; Control: -3.0 ± 2.9 to -3.8 ± 3.7%) were not different between Baseline and Follow-up in either group (all, P ≥ 0.327). CONCLUSIONS: A 12-week HIIT intervention improved aerobic fitness but did not provide protection against prolonged sitting-induced impairments in popliteal artery endothelial function or vascular smooth cell function.
Small airway dysfunction across alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency genotypes with preserved spirometry.
Marchese A, Frizzelli A, Accogli R … +4 more , Pisi R, Bondarenko O, Chetta A, Aiello M
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42213128 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder that generally predisposes to pulmonary emphysema with or without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite the lack of spirometric obstruc...
PURPOSE: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder that generally predisposes to pulmonary emphysema with or without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite the lack of spirometric obstruction, early Small Airways Dysfunction (SAD) may occur in AATD patients preceding lung damage. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, single-center study on 60 AATD patients without airflow obstruction (FEV₁/FVC ≥ 0.70). SAD was defined as: reduced spirometric flows (≥2 of FEF25-75, FEF50, FEF75 <65% predicted) and/or IOS R5-R20 value greater than 0.07 kPa•s•L⁻¹. Correlation and agreement between spirometry and IOS were assessed, as well as associations with Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scores. RESULTS: SAD was detected in 23% of patients by spirometry, 10% by IOS, and 13% by both methods. A slight agreement was found between spirometric and IOS criteria (κ = 0.22). Only IOS-defined SAD was significantly associated with dyspnea (mMRC ≥2; p = 0.05), and R5-R20 values correlated with mMRC scores (r = 0.38, p = 0.003). No association was observed between spirometry-defined SAD and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support IOS as a partially complementary tool for the early detection of peripheral airway impairment in AATD. Moreover, IOS but not spirometry criteria were related to breathlessness perception in AATD patients without airflow obstruction, with IOS proving to be a clinically more sensitive measure.
Intermittent normobaric hypoxia at rest is associated with divergent cardiac autonomic trajectories in master cyclists.
Navarro-Gómez P
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42213127 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This randomized, participant-blinded, sham-controlled 2 × 2 crossover trial examined whether a 4-week intermittent normobaric hypoxia intervention performed at rest (IHNT; 12 sessions; FiO₂ ≈ 0.12) is associated...
PURPOSE: This randomized, participant-blinded, sham-controlled 2 × 2 crossover trial examined whether a 4-week intermittent normobaric hypoxia intervention performed at rest (IHNT; 12 sessions; FiO₂ ≈ 0.12) is associated with changes in indices of cardiac parasympathetic modulation in master cyclists. METHODS: Twenty-three master cyclists aged 50-60 years completed both IHNT and normoxic sham conditions across two periods with a 4-week washout. HRV was assessed from standardized supine morning recordings summarized as 7-day means at Baseline, Post-intervention, and Follow-up. Primary outcomes were lnRMSSD and lnHF, analyzed using linear mixed-effects models with autoregressive residual structure, condition-specific heterogeneous variances, and Holm-adjusted contrasts. RESULTS: Significant Condition × Time interactions were observed for lnRMSSD (χ²(2) = 16.27, p < 0.001) and lnHF (χ²(2) = 18.18, p < 0.001), reflecting divergent autonomic trajectories across conditions. Within IHNT, lnRMSSD increased by + 13.6% (p < 0.001) and lnHF by + 17.9% (p < 0.001) Post-intervention, with partial retention at Follow-up (+ 4.5% and + 7.0%, respectively). Sham showed significant lnHF decreases at Post (- 20.5%) and Follow-up (- 21.3%; both p = 0.030), while lnRMSSD remained stable. Pairwise between-condition contrasts did not reach significance after Holm-Bonferroni adjustment. A baseline-adjusted sensitivity analysis confirmed the lnHF interaction (χ²(1) = 12.04, p < 0.001). Blinding was maintained (52.4% accuracy, p = 0.287). CONCLUSION: IHNT at rest was associated with divergent cardiac autonomic trajectories versus sham in master cyclists, with consistent within-IHNT increases in parasympathetic indices and concurrent vagal withdrawal under sham. These proof-of-concept findings support a physiological signal warranting confirmation in adequately powered trials.
Shifting the focus of ischemic preconditioning in exercise performance: from acute to chronic effects.
Silva BM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42213126 · Publisher ↗
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Sex-specific allometric modeling and regression-residual normalization for size-adjusted strength assessment.
Fahey TD
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191904 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Body mass strongly influences maximal strength, complicating comparisons across individuals of different sizes and sexes. Traditional ratio standards and fixed allometric exponents often fail to adequately reduc...
PURPOSE: Body mass strongly influences maximal strength, complicating comparisons across individuals of different sizes and sexes. Traditional ratio standards and fixed allometric exponents often fail to adequately reduce body-mass dependence. This study examined whether sex-specific regression-residual normalization derived from log-log allometric models could reduce body-mass dependence to non-significant residual variance across multiple resistance exercises within this sample. METHODS: Strength data were obtained from 203 college-aged adults (133 males, 70 females) who performed one-repetition maximum (1RM) tests for the bench press, squat, deadlift, snatch, clean and jerk, and overhead press, along with a 90-s one-arm kettlebell snatch test. Sex-specific allometric models of the form ln(P) = ln(a) + b·ln(M) were fitted for each exercise. Standardized residuals (W-scores) were calculated as size-adjusted performance indices. Normalization effectiveness was evaluated using correlations and regression slopes relating body mass to both raw performance and W-scores. RESULTS: Raw strength performance was positively associated with body mass across all barbell lifts (males: r = 0.25-0.44; females: r = 0.37-0.50; all p ≤ 0.010; R² ≈ 0.06-0.25). After normalization, associations between body mass and W-scores were reduced to near zero (males: r = - 0.06 to 0.01; females: r = - 0.02 to - 0.01; all p ≥ 0.48). Regression slopes were close to zero, and 95% confidence intervals included zero across all tasks. CONCLUSION: Sex-specific regression-residual normalization based on log-log allometric modeling reduced statistical body-mass dependence to negligible levels across diverse strength tasks within this sample. By emphasizing statistical independence of the normalized outcome, this approach provides a statistical framework for generating size-adjusted strength metrics for within-sample comparisons.
Modulation of prefrontal functional connectivity by tDCS over the left DLPFC predicts performance enhancement in swimmers: a simultaneous tDCS-fNIRS, double-blind, sham-controlled crossover study.
Ishihara T, Kiyokawa S, Tajimi H … +5 more , Hashimoto S, Ding T, Hyodo K, Takagishi H, Matsuda T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191903 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: While transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been proposed as a method to enhance physical performance in athletes, the underlying neural mechanisms and the reasons for the widely reported individual...
PURPOSE: While transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been proposed as a method to enhance physical performance in athletes, the underlying neural mechanisms and the reasons for the widely reported individual variability in its effects remain unclear. This study investigated whether prefrontal hemodynamic responses, measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), are associated with the effects of anodal tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on swimming performance. METHODS: In a double-blind, sham-controlled, crossover design, eight trained male swimmers performed 100 m freestyle trials after receiving anodal tDCS or sham stimulation. We recorded prefrontal cortical activation and functional connectivity using fNIRS during a resting-state period and a subsequent stimulation period. RESULTS: While tDCS administered prior to the 100 m freestyle swim led to a numerical improvement in performance compared with the sham condition, the overall effect was not statistically significant. The fNIRS analyses revealed that tDCS significantly reduced functional connectivity, especially in the stimulated left prefrontal cortex. Greater reductions in functional connectivity were associated with larger performance improvements. Exploratory analyses further suggested that baseline functional connectivity may be related to the neural response to tDCS, with higher baseline connectivity associated with greater reductions during stimulation. CONCLUSION: Anodal tDCS over the left DLPFC may be associated with decreased prefrontal functional connectivity and changes in physical performance. Baseline functional connectivity may be relevant to individual responsiveness to tDCS, although further research is required.
Effects of high-intensity and blood-flow-restricted resistance training on tendon adaptations in older men.
Cesanelli L, Dranevičius G, Mickevicius M … +7 more , Satkunskiene D, Muanjai P, Česnaitienė VJ, Levin O, Vints W, Masiulis N, Kamandulis S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191902 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the effects of combined concentric-eccentric high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) and low-load blood flow restriction training (BFRT) on tendon properties and function in older men....
PURPOSE: This study investigated the effects of combined concentric-eccentric high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) and low-load blood flow restriction training (BFRT) on tendon properties and function in older men. METHODS: This parallel three-group controlled trial with constrained allocation included two exercise interventions (i.e., HIRT and BFRT) and a non-exercise control (CON). Participants in the exercise groups trained twice weekly for 12 weeks, and the total relative training volume was matched between groups. Assessments before and after the intervention included patellar tendon stiffness as the primary outcome, followed by tendon morpho-mechanical characteristics (cross-sectional area and tangent modulus) and knee extensor strength. RESULTS: Leg extension one-repetition maximum (1RM) increased in both HIRT (+ 40.4%, p < 0.001) and BFRT (+ 18.1%, p < 0.01) but not in CON (p > 0.05). HIRT significantly increased PT stiffness (+ 5.5%, p = 0.034) but not BFRT (PT stiffness: - 4.1%); the presence of divergent outcomes was supported by a significant time × intervention interaction (p < 0.05). PT cross-sectional area (CSA) increased in both training groups compared with CON (+ 4.3% in HIRT, + 3.6% in BFRT; both p < 0.001) but did not differ between HIRT and BFRT (p > 0.05). Changes in muscle strength correlated positively with tendon adaptations: the change (Δ) in 1RM correlated with Δstiffness (r = 0.35, p = 0.034) and ΔPTCSA (r = 0.45, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that HIRT may be more effective than BFRT for improving tendon mechanical function in older adults, whereas BFRT appears to preferentially affect tendon morphology rather than material properties over 12 weeks. CLINICALTRIALS: gov Identifier: NCT05744167.
Effects of a single session of occupational sitting on neck muscle fatigue and head stabilization strategies during walking at different speeds in sedentary individuals.
Hajlotfalian M, Bidoki FZ, Sadeghi H
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191901 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Prolonged occupational sitting can induce fatigue in neck muscles, disrupting proprioceptive function and vestibular integration, thereby compromising neuromuscular coordination. These impairments may alter b...
BACKGROUND: Prolonged occupational sitting can induce fatigue in neck muscles, disrupting proprioceptive function and vestibular integration, thereby compromising neuromuscular coordination. These impairments may alter balance control mechanisms and shift inter-segmental stabilization strategies during walking, especially under varying gait demands. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the acute effects of sedentary occupational activity on head stabilization strategies at different walking speeds, with a focus on neck muscle fatigue. METHODS: Head stabilization strategies were evaluated in twenty-two healthy young men. The Anchoring Index (AI) was used to quantify head stabilization in the Pitch, Roll, and Yaw axes during walking at various speeds. Assessments were conducted for the experimental group before and after an 8-hour period of sustained sitting, and for the control group in the morning and evening on a non-working day. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Following a single session of prolonged sitting, a significant decrease in AI was observed, particularly in the Roll and Yaw axes at slow speed, and in the Yaw axis at a comfortable speed. Conversely, AI values increased in the Roll and Yaw axes at higher walking speeds, suggesting a compensatory change in stabilization strategy. CONCLUSION: Prolonged occupational sitting sufficient to induce neck muscle fatigue leads to measurable changes in head stabilization during gait, characterized by a shift toward a head-on-trunk strategy, particularly at slower walking speeds. These findings suggest an immediate compensatory response related to altered cervical proprioception.
The running economy and biomechanics of competitive distance runners wearing advanced footwear technology spikes.
Needles BJ, Kim S, Grabowski AM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191900 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the running economy and biomechanics of runners wearing Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) spiked shoes (spikes) and AFT shoes relative to traditional spikes. METHODS: 17...
PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the running economy and biomechanics of runners wearing Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) spiked shoes (spikes) and AFT shoes relative to traditional spikes. METHODS: 17 (7 female & 10 male) competitive distance runners completed two sessions of eight (four shoes × two replicates), five-minute trials at 15 km*hr (females) or 17 km*hr (males) wearing Nike ZoomX Dragonfly (NDF) and On Cloudspike 10,000 m (OCS) AFT spikes, Nike Vaporfly Next % 2 (NVN) AFT shoes, and Nike Zoom Victory 3 (NZV) traditional spikes. We measured metabolic rates and ground reaction forces and compared average running economy (W*kg) and biomechanical variables from four trials per shoe per runner. RESULTS: When runners wore NDF and OCS AFT spikes and NVN AFT shoes, running economy improved by 2.1%, 2.3%, and 1.9%, respectively, compared to NZV traditional spikes (p < 0.001). These improvements coincided with 6.1%, 4.5%, and 8.9% increases in leg stiffness and 1.5%, 2.2%, and 2.3% increases in ground contact time for the NDF, OCS, and NVN, respectively, compared to NZV traditional spikes (p < 0.002). CONCLUSION: Running economy improved by 2.1% for athletes wearing compliant AFT spikes and shoes compared to traditional spikes. Future generations of AFT spikes that are designed with further increases in midsole compliance and energy return could improve race performance by eliciting potentially favorable biomechanical changes, such as increased leg stiffness and/or ground contact time.
Inspiratory muscle loading with dyspnea limits simulated driving performance in young adults.
Frost M, So J, Huang C … +8 more , Kwok O, Lui R, Williams C, Rassam P, Kulkarni M, He A, Rozenberg D, Reid WD
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42191899 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Dyspnea is a neurophysiological experience that imposes cognitive load by activating cortical areas responsible for attention, emotional regulation, and motor planning. Consequently, it may compromise multi-task...
PURPOSE: Dyspnea is a neurophysiological experience that imposes cognitive load by activating cortical areas responsible for attention, emotional regulation, and motor planning. Consequently, it may compromise multi-tasking activities like driving. This study investigated whether inspiratory threshold loading (ITL) and associated dyspnea impairs simulated driving performance in young healthy adults. METHODS: 28 healthy adults (mean age 24 ± 1 years) completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21), and performed maximal inspiratory pressures (MIP) and spirometry. Using a repeated measures design, they completed 3 tasks in randomized and counterbalanced order: single-task ITL against a 20 cmH₂O load (ITL), single-task Driving (Drv), and dual-task Drv + ITL. Simulated driving was performed using a computer-based software where preplanned routes of comparable length and difficulty were provided. Driving error, dyspnea intensity (Borg Dyspnea Scale), ventilatory outcomes and affect (Self-Assessment Manikin [SAM]), and qualitative dyspnea descriptors were assessed at baseline and immediately after each task. RESULTS: Two categories of driving error, vehicle control and signal infractions, were significantly higher during dual task Drv + ITL compared to single-task Drv (p ≤ 0.048). Tidal volume, respiratory rate and minute ventilation were more variable during Drv + ITL than ITL (p ≤ 0.010). SAM affective responses indicated significantly lower sense of control (p= 0.018) and greater chest pressure (p = 0.010) during Drv + ITL versus single-task Drv. Greater MIP (inspiratory muscle strength) was correlated with lower Borg Dyspnea scores during Drv + ITL (r=- 0.336, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Inspiratory muscle loading and associated dyspnea decreased sense of control and impaired simulated driving performance. Participants with higher inspiratory muscle strength experienced lower dyspnea intensity during dual task Drv + ITL.
Reliability of M-wave amplitude measurement from paired stimulations across different muscle groups before and after submaximal contraction to failure.
Lanfranchi C, Neyroud D, Rodriguez-Falces J … +1 more , Place N
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42189232 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: In exercising humans, contractility is usually investigated using paired/tetanic transcutaneous electrically-evoked contraction, while single stimulations are used to quantify sarcolemmal excitability through M-...
PURPOSE: In exercising humans, contractility is usually investigated using paired/tetanic transcutaneous electrically-evoked contraction, while single stimulations are used to quantify sarcolemmal excitability through M-wave amplitude. Here, we aim at investigating the reliability and validity of M-wave peak-to-peak amplitude and first phase amplitude obtained from paired stimulation compared to those obtained from single stimulation (gold standard) before and after a sustained submaximal isometric contraction of the knee extensor, plantar flexor, elbow flexor and thumb adductor muscles. METHODS: M waves, in response to single and paired (10 Hz and 100 Hz) stimuli, were collected in thirteen young, healthy men (25 ± 2 year) before and immediately after an isometric contraction sustained at 50% maximal voluntary force until failure. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was used to measure the reliability of M-wave parameters obtained from single and paired stimuli. RESULTS: Variability in the changes in M-wave amplitude was observed following exercise depending on the muscle considered and underscores the need to analyze both phases of the M wave. This study also demonstrates that the M-wave elicited by the first stimulation in a 10-Hz (as opposed to 100-Hz) paired pulse provides an accurate and reliable estimate of sarcolemmal excitability under both resting and fatigued conditions across all investigated muscles. CONCLUSION: When using 10-Hz paired stimuli to assess peripheral adjustments, single stimulations may be unnecessary for evaluating sarcolemmal excitability.
Smoking quitting promotes neuromuscular and cartilage recovery in knee osteoarthritis.
Karim A, Khan I, Ahmad F … +1 more , Qaisar R
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42189231 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Smoking is known to exacerbate systemic inflammation and musculoskeletal decline, however, its reversible effects in osteoarthritis (OA) remain poorly understood. We evaluated whether smoking cessation improv...
OBJECTIVES: Smoking is known to exacerbate systemic inflammation and musculoskeletal decline, however, its reversible effects in osteoarthritis (OA) remain poorly understood. We evaluated whether smoking cessation improves disease severity, physical and respiratory function, and biochemical markers of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) integrity (C-terminal agrin-fragment-22; CAF22) and cartilage degradation (C-telopeptide of type II collagen; CTX-II) in patients with knee OA. METHODS: This one-year longitudinal study included 57 quitters and 61 active smokers with OA. Disease severity was classified using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS). Additional outcomes included WOMAC, handgrip strength (HGS), gait speed, maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP, respectively), and plasma biomarkers of cartilage degradation (CTX-II) and NMJ disruption (CAF22). Standardized protocols and validated instruments were applied throughout. RESULTS: Quitters demonstrated significant improvements in OKS and WOMAC, along with increases in gait speed, HGS, and MIP compared to smokers (all p < 0.05). Disease severity distribution shifted favorably in quitters, with more patients moving from the severe to mild categories. In contrast, smokers showed worsening severity. In contrast to active smokers, quitters exhibited reduced CAF22 and CTX-II levels, suggesting an improved NMJ and cartilage integrity. Regression analyses confirmed strong associations between biomarker levels, disease severity, and functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Smoking cessation was associated with improvements in disease severity, musculoskeletal and respiratory function, and biomarker profiles over one year. These findings suggest that cessation may contribute to a more favorable clinical trajectory in knee OA, although further studies are needed to confirm underlying mechanisms.
Repeated whole-body cryostimulation promotes a blood pressure reduction at rest in healthy adult men.
Jdidi H, de Bisschop C, Dugué B … +1 more , Douzi W
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42189230 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) has recently been shown to improve autonomic nervous control of the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to investigate the acute and repeated effects of WBC on baroreflex sen...
PURPOSE: Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) has recently been shown to improve autonomic nervous control of the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to investigate the acute and repeated effects of WBC on baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure. METHODS: Fifty male participants (22 ± 4 years) were randomly assigned to experimental (N = 25) and control groups (N = 25). The experimental group underwent 10 WBC sessions over two weeks, while cardiovascular responses were assessed before and after the 1st and the 10th session of WBC. Heart rate (HR), BRS, HRV, as well as systolic (SAP), diastolic (DAP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured. RESULTS: SAP and MAP values at rest significantly decreased by 7% (- 8.6 mmHg for SAP and - 6.3 mmHg for MAP) after repeated WBC exposures (p < 0.05) whereas the values remained stable in control subjects. Significant negative correlation was found between the changes in SAP and the basal SAP value. The same pattern was observed for MAP. Regarding acute effects, WBC exposure induced a significant increase in BRS by 42% after the 1st exposure, and by 44% after the 10th (p < 0.001). Similarly, HR decreased significantly by 10% and by 13%, while root mean square of successive RR interval differences (RMSSD) rose by 19% and 34% after the 1st and 10th exposure, respectively (p < 0.001). BMI did not significantly modulate the observed responses. CONCLUSION: Repeated exposures induce adaptive effects, with significant reductions in resting SAP and MAP. These findings support WBC as a promising non-pharmacological strategy to enhance cardiovascular health.
Neuromuscular contributions to inter-limb quadriceps strength asymmetries across contraction types in healthy adults.
Alaux H, Barrué-Belou S, Matta PM … +1 more , Duclay J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42142186 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the contribution of neuromuscular mechanisms to quadriceps strength asymmetry across isometric, concentric, and eccentric contractions by examining the covariation between strength asymme...
PURPOSE: This study investigated the contribution of neuromuscular mechanisms to quadriceps strength asymmetry across isometric, concentric, and eccentric contractions by examining the covariation between strength asymmetry and asymmetries in voluntary activation and doublet-evoked torque. METHODS: Fifteen healthy participants performed maximal isometric and anisometric contractions (30°/s) of both lower limbs on an isokinetic dynamometer. Side-to-side differences in torque, electromyographic (EMG) activity, voluntary activation, and doublet-evoked torque were assessed by comparing the stronger and weaker limbs. Associations between asymmetries in torque, voluntary activation, and doublet-evoked torque were subsequently examined. RESULTS: A significant difference between the stronger and weaker limbs was observed for torque across all contraction types (162.1 and 145.6 N.m, respectively), whereas no between-limb differences were found for neuromuscular parameters. Covariation analyses indicated that asymmetries in activation level (estimate = 0.57, p < 0.001) and doublet-evoked torque (estimate = 0.29, p = 0.006) were significant predictors of torque asymmetry, together explaining 29% of its variance (Marginal R²). In contrast, these relationships were not influenced by contraction type (p = 0.670). CONCLUSION: In healthy individuals, strength asymmetries covary positively with neuromuscular asymmetries. Given the absence of contraction-type effects, findings derived from isometric conditions likely generalize to anisometric contractions.
Immediate effects of stretching and eccentric exercise on flexibility, stiffness, and strength in older adults with hamstring tightness and possible sarcopenia: a randomized controlled trial.
Luangpon N, Srijunto W, Werasirirat P … +3 more , Chaovalit S, Snieckus A, Muanjai P
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42142185 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined the immediate effects of long-duration static stretching on range of motion (ROM), muscle-tendon unit (MTU) stiffness, and muscle strength in older adults with hamstring tightness and possibl...
PURPOSE: This study examined the immediate effects of long-duration static stretching on range of motion (ROM), muscle-tendon unit (MTU) stiffness, and muscle strength in older adults with hamstring tightness and possible sarcopenia. METHODS: Sixty-eight older adults (67.2 ± 4.5 years) were randomly assigned to long-duration static stretching (LS), standard-duration static stretching (SS), eccentric exercise (ECC), or control. Joint ROM, fascicle length (FL), MTU stiffness, and knee-flexor peak eccentric torque were assessed at baseline and immediately after a single intervention. RESULTS: Significant immediate ROM improvements were observed in the LS, SS, and ECC groups (5.5°, 5.6°, and 3.1°, respectively; all p < 0.05), with no between-group differences. MTU stiffness decreased significantly after LS (median: -0.05 Nm/deg) and SS (median: -0.06 Nm/deg; both p < 0.05), whereas no changes were observed in the ECC or control groups. No significant changes in FL were detected, indicating that ROM improvements were not associated with alterations in muscle architecture. A significant main effect of time was found for knee-flexor peak eccentric torque, with no group × time interaction. CONCLUSIONS: A single 30-min session of hamstring stretching did not produce greater acute improvements in ROM, MTU stiffness, or muscle strength than shorter-duration stretching or eccentric exercise. However, the magnitude of these effects did not exceed the threshold for clinical meaningfulness, as defined in the present study. Further refinement of intervention parameters (e.g., position, or intensity) may be required to elicit clinically meaningful changes in ROM in tight and possible sarcopenic muscles.
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