European Journal Of Applied Physiology[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Blood flow restriction induces similar peripheral stress but greater central drive impairments than systemic hypoxia during repeated cycling sprints.
Di Domenico H, Mougin L, Hintzy F … +2 more , Hayes M, Rupp T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42018001 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Systemic hypoxia (SH) and blood flow restriction (BFR) are methods used to improve repeated sprint exercise ability. This study aimed to compare their respective impacts on neuromuscular fatigue etiology of the...
PURPOSE: Systemic hypoxia (SH) and blood flow restriction (BFR) are methods used to improve repeated sprint exercise ability. This study aimed to compare their respective impacts on neuromuscular fatigue etiology of the lower limbs during cycling sprints, using an innovative instrumented cycle-ergometer allowing immediate measurements between sprints. METHOD: Fifteen participants performed repeated 10-s cycling sprints/28-s recovery until a 30% decrease in sprint mean power, under two randomized conditions: BFR (45% arterial occlusion) and SH (FiO2 = 0.13). Isometric maximum voluntary contraction of the quadriceps (IMVC), muscle pain, and central (voluntary activation, VA) and peripheral (peak twitch, Pt) alterations were evaluated before and immediately after each sprint. Peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2, pulse oximetry) and quadriceps muscle oxygenation (TSI, near-infrared spectroscopy) were continuously recorded. RESULTS: Participants completed 8.3 ± 4.3 sprints with BFR and 7.3 ± 3.0 sprints in SH, with no difference between conditions and similar initial mean power. Pt was similarly affected in both conditions, but IMVC and VA decreases were exacerbated in BFR (VA pre-post −20 ± 14% vs. −7 ± 9% in SH, p < 0.001). Muscle pain was higher in BFR compared to SH (87 ± 18 vs 76 ± 20, respectively, p = 0.02). Sprint-induced muscle deoxygenations were similar in BFR and SH conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Sprint performance and localized hypoxia were similar between conditions, but neuromuscular fatigue was exacerbated in BFR compared to SH, primarily driven by enhanced central drive impairments along with elevated quadriceps pain perception. Practically, although BFR and SH produce comparable mechanical performance decrements, BFR imposes a substantially greater central and perceptual load that practitioners should consider when designing repeated-sprint training interventions.
Haemodynamic adaptations to isometric handgrip versus isometric wall squat exercise training: a randomised crossover study.
Edwards JJ, Galbraith A, Bruce-Low S … +2 more , Sharma R, O'Driscoll JM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42018000 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Isometric exercise training (IET) has been shown to be an effective anti-hypertensive approach and there is a growing interest in the transition of IET into clinical exercise prescription settings. However, the...
PURPOSE: Isometric exercise training (IET) has been shown to be an effective anti-hypertensive approach and there is a growing interest in the transition of IET into clinical exercise prescription settings. However, the most effective application of IET is not yet conclusive. As such, this work aimed to compare the haemodynamic effects of the two most prominent IET modes, the isometric wall squat (IWS) and isometric handgrip (IHG). METHODS: In a cross-over design, 21 healthy participants were randomised to a 4-week IWS or IHG intervention, followed by a 4-week ‘washout’ period and then subsequent allocation to the opposite trial arm. Resting systolic (sBP) and diastolic (dBP) blood pressure, and other clinically important haemodynamic variables including heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (Q̇) and total peripheral resistance (TPR) were measured before and after the two 4-week study periods. RESULTS: Following the intervention, resting clinic sBP, mBP and dBP were reduced in the IWS group (-6.8 mmHg, -5.5 mmHg and -4.8 mmHg) and IHG group (-4.8 mmHg, -3.2 mmHg and -2.5 mmHg). Comparatively, there was no significant condition x time interaction for sBP (β = − 2.1 ± 1.3 mmHg, p = 0.102). Conversely, significantly greater reductions were observed for mBP (β = − 2.3 ± 0.8 mmHg, p = 0.008) and dBP (β = − 2.4 ± 1.1 mmHg, p = 0.025) following IWS compared with IHG. CONCLUSION: Overall, this study supports the utility of both isometric exercise training approaches in reducing blood pressure. While greater reductions in mBP and dBP were observed following IWS, both IWS and IHG represent effective and clinically relevant options for blood pressure management.
A journal article reporting standard working group in sport and exercise science: a call to action.
Warneke K, Gronwald T, Clemente FM … +2 more , Andrade R, Afonso J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 42012518 · Full text
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Gearing in the human medial gastrocnemius: effects of contraction conditions, tissue stiffness, and echo intensity.
Yoshida H, Yagi M, Wang Z … +3 more , Hirozawa K, Tateuchi H, Ichihashi N
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012517 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: In isolated animal muscles, contraction intensity and tissue stiffness have been shown to be related to gearing. However, these relationships remain poorly understood in humans. This study aimed to clarify how c...
PURPOSE: In isolated animal muscles, contraction intensity and tissue stiffness have been shown to be related to gearing. However, these relationships remain poorly understood in humans. This study aimed to clarify how contraction intensity and velocity impact gearing and their relationship with tissue properties in humans. METHODS: Fifty-two healthy young adults participated in this study. We measured the shear elastic modulus of the medial gastrocnemius muscle, its aponeurosis, and the Achilles tendon, as well as muscle echo intensity. The shear elastic modulus of the aponeurosis was used for analysis as the ratio of transverse to longitudinal directions. Belly segment gear was quantified using ultrasound images of the medial gastrocnemius during isokinetic and isometric plantarflexion. RESULTS: During isometric contraction, belly segment gear under 60% MVC (1.054 ± 0.029) was significantly greater than that under 20% MVC (1.029 ± 0.044). In contrast, during isokinetic contraction, no significant difference between belly segment gear under 100°/s (1.053 ± 0.024) and that under 20°/s (1.056 ± 0.021) was observed. During lower-intensity, higher-velocity isokinetic contractions, greater belly segment gear was associated with a higher transverse to longitudinal stiffness ratio of the superficial aponeurosis (β = 0.274, p = 0.038), lower tendon stiffness (β=-0.312, p = 0.021), and lower echo intensity (β=-0.308, p = 0.021). Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that the effect of aponeurosis stiffness on torque through belly segment gear was significant (indirect effect = 4.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.11-10.09). CONCLUSION: Belly segment gear was associated with contraction intensity and connective tissue properties.
RACLET: the Ramp Above Critical Level Endurance Test to evaluate critical velocity in running.
Vonderscher M, Samozino P, Bowen M … +1 more , Morel B
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012516 · Publisher ↗
Critical velocity ([Formula: see text]) is an important fatigability threshold in running, but only strenuous methods exist to assess it (e.g. time-trials). Based on a novel mathematical model of fatigability, the Ramp A...
Critical velocity ([Formula: see text]) is an important fatigability threshold in running, but only strenuous methods exist to assess it (e.g. time-trials). Based on a novel mathematical model of fatigability, the Ramp Above Critical Level Endurance Test (RACLET), a simple 5-min test to evaluate [Formula: see text] was developed. This study aimed to test the measurement properties of this novel non-exhaustive test. Thirty-eight participants performed two RACLET (session 1) and three time-trials (sessions 2–4). For the RACLET, velocity target tracking was guaranteed by either a pacing bike or cones and whistle signals. Using GPS to measure participants’ running velocities, [Formula: see text], fatigability index τ, and distance reserve above [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] were determined by adjusting the fatigability model on the measured [Formula: see text]. The RACLET test vs. retest and RACLET test vs. time-trials parameters were compared for reliability and validity testing, respectively. [Formula: see text] differed by −1.9±2.9% between test and retest, and by 5.4±7.1%, between RACLET test and time-trials. Although τ and [Formula: see text] presented important variability (s.d. difference ≈30%), the combination of the RACLET parameters enabled a good prediction of time-trials performance (mean error=8.5±5.0%, 0.1±7.6%, −2.0±5.5% for 400, 1500, and 3000 m, respectively). RACLET is a promising non-exhausting test to assess the velocity–time relationship parameters.
Effects of anthropometry, age and sex on center of pressure displacement evoked by small trunk perturbations in balance tests.
Paterna M, Alba F, Bottoni E … +6 more , De Benedictis C, Maffiodo D, Franco W, Dvir Z, Ferraresi C, Roatta S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41984182 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Balance control can be evaluated by studying the displacement of the center of pressure (CoP) during dynamic posturographic trials. However, differences in anthropometric characteristics may affect the measureme...
PURPOSE: Balance control can be evaluated by studying the displacement of the center of pressure (CoP) during dynamic posturographic trials. However, differences in anthropometric characteristics may affect the measurement and increase intersubject variability, possibly leading to misinterpretation. This study evaluates how sex, age, and anthropometric characteristics (weight, height, and foot length) influence the CoP displacement to postural perturbations. METHODS: Seventy-two healthy subjects, 31 women and 41 men, were subjected to five small impulsive perturbations applied to their back. Balance performance was quantified by three CoP parameters: the ratio between the maximum CoP displacement and the impulse of the perturbation (ΔCoPn), the latency (Lat), and the duration (Dur) of the CoP response. RESULTS: A linear regression analysis evidenced that body weight and height exhibited a negative and positive relation with ΔCoPn, respectively, which explained 48% of the ΔCoPn variability. These relations were confirmed by simulations with a single-link biomechanical model. On the other hand, the latency and the duration of the CoP response were affected neither by the anthropometric characteristics nor by sex. CONCLUSION: Findings from the present study have an impact on test protocols, especially when comparing data collected from heterogeneous populations, in which case normalization with respect to the subjects’ height and weight may be necessary to use the ΔCoPn as a postural performance index.
Time course and regional heterogeneity of hamstring muscle thickness after maximal concentric exercise in men and women.
Sahinis C, Pavlidis K, Kellis E
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41973210 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined the early time course of hamstring thickness changes after acute maximal concentric knee-flexions across multiple measurement sites in men and women. METHODS: Twenty-two young adults (11 men,...
PURPOSE: This study examined the early time course of hamstring thickness changes after acute maximal concentric knee-flexions across multiple measurement sites in men and women. METHODS: Twenty-two young adults (11 men, 11 women) performed 50 maximal unilateral concentric knee-flexions at 120°·s⁻¹. Muscle thickness of the biceps femoris (BF) and semitendinosus (ST) was assessed using ultrasound at proximal, middle, and distal sites at baseline and repeatedly during 30-min of recovery. RESULTS: Linear mixed-effects models showed that thickness increased rapidly, peaking immediately post-exercise or at 5-min (mean relative change: 10.4 ± 4.9%), and returned toward baseline by 15–30-min. Absolute thickness increases differed between muscles and sites (p < .05), with larger responses observed in BF than ST (d = 0.61–3.23) and the greatest change at the middle site (d = 1.00–4.04). In contrast, relative thickness changes were largely comparable across muscles, sites, and sexes (p > .05). However, considerable inter-individual variability was found in relative thickness changes among measurement sites with the distal regions most often contributed the largest share of total swelling (BF 45.5%, ST 54.5%). CONCLUSION: Maximal concentric exercise induces transient hamstring thickness changes. Although relative thickness responses were similar across sexes, muscles, and regions, substantial inter-individual variability in regional patterns suggests that the hamstrings may not respond as a uniform unit acutely following exercise.
Assessing the accuracy, reliability, and validity of menstrual cycle phase tracking equations in an applied sport setting.
Greenwalt C, Ansdell P, Thomas K … +5 more , McNulty K, Howatson G, Mutuwa AG, Munro O, Hicks KM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961285 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To assess the accuracy, reliability, and validity of five mathematical equations across multiple cycles to predict menstrual cycle onset and date of ovulation in the applied environment. METHODS: 11 professional...
PURPOSE: To assess the accuracy, reliability, and validity of five mathematical equations across multiple cycles to predict menstrual cycle onset and date of ovulation in the applied environment. METHODS: 11 professional female athletes who were either naturally menstruating or intrauterine device (IUD) users tracked their menstrual cycles throughout the course of an entire national women’s soccer league (NWSL) season. Participants recorded the first and last dates of each menstrual cycle, which were used in mathematical equations to predict next bleed and ovulation date, which were validated by retrospective analysis and confirmed by ovulation tests from two consecutive cycles. RESULTS: When predicting next bleed date, there was no difference in accuracy (MAE: 6 days), reliability (ICC3 = 0.60, 95% CI [0.53–0.68], p < 0.001) (CV: 24.3 to 25.1%), or prediction error (β = −0.20, SE = 0.16, t(335) = − 1.22, 95% CI [− 0.65 − 0.24]) between the equations, yet there was a significant, positive association between cycle length and prediction error (β = 1.10, SE = 0.03, t(335) = 31.54, 95% CI [0.94–1.13]). When predicting ovulation date, there was no significant difference in accuracy (MAE: 4), or reliability (ICC3 = 0.45, 95% CI [0.18–0.75], p < 0.001) (8.5–22.1%). CONCLUSION: No equation emerged as significantly better when predicting next bleed or next ovulation date, and all equations had relatively high variability and error rate. It is imperative that practitioners monitor menstrual characteristics and consider cycle variability when utilizing equations to predict menstrual cycle bleed and ovulation date.
Age-related differences in corticospinal and reticulospinal adaptations to short-term strength training.
Siddique U, Frazer AK, Tallent J … +6 more , Hayman O, Akalu Y, Rostami M, Uribe S, Walker S, Kidgell DJ
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961284 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: High force production depends on effective transmission of motor commands to spinal motoneurones, a capacity that declines with age. Although strength adaptations are often attributed to cortical mechanisms, sub...
PURPOSE: High force production depends on effective transmission of motor commands to spinal motoneurones, a capacity that declines with age. Although strength adaptations are often attributed to cortical mechanisms, subcortical pathways providing strong descending drive remain understudied. The reticulospinal tract, with its fast, widespread projections to motoneurones, is well positioned to support force generation, yet its role in human strength adaptation is largely unknown. This study examined age-related differences in corticospinal and reticulospinal adaptations following short-term strength training. METHODS: Thirteen older adults (67 ± 5 years) and twelve younger adults (26 ± 6 years) completed a two-week unilateral elbow-flexor strength training programme. Neurophysiological and behavioural assessments were performed to evaluate cortical and subcortical activity and their contribution to strength gains. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated similar increases in strength; however, corticospinal excitability decreased in younger adults and remained unchanged in older adults. Reduced GABAergic inhibition, indexed by shortened cortical silent periods, occurred in both groups. Reaction time and rate of force development in response to startling stimuli improved in both groups, with a more pronounced StartReact effect in older adults, consistent with enhanced reticulospinal responsiveness. Voluntary drive, measured by central activation ratio, increased significantly in older adults (p < 0.001), whereas MMAX remained stable. CONCLUSION: Early strength gains were accompanied by reduced intracortical inhibition and increased engagement of subcortical descending pathways. The pronounced StartReact responses and enhanced early-force kinetics provide indirect evidence of greater reticulospinal contribution, with older adults appearing to rely more heavily on this pathway when corticospinal plasticity is limited.
Standardizing ischemic preconditioning research in applied exercise physiology.
Marocolo M, Hohl R, Wilk M … +2 more , Mota GR, Souza HLR
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 41961283 · Full text
Research on ischemic preconditioning (IPC) within applied exercise physiology has expanded considerably over the past few decades. While IPC demonstrates potential for enhancing exercise performance and accelerating musc...
Research on ischemic preconditioning (IPC) within applied exercise physiology has expanded considerably over the past few decades. While IPC demonstrates potential for enhancing exercise performance and accelerating muscle recovery, its widespread adoption is currently hindered by substantial heterogeneity in protocols and applications. Notably, recent evidence suggests that the reported ergogenic effects of IPC become less apparent in studies utilizing a three-arm experimental design (i.e., IPC, placebo and control). This variability compromises reproducibility and complicates the establishment of IPC as a reliable physiological stimulus and an ergogenic aid. Consequently, this narrative review aims to advance the field by identifying gaps, proposing methodological standards and encouraging the standardization of protocol design. We evaluate critical parameters, including cuff width, inflation pressure, number of cycles, and the duration of occlusion and reperfusion, while addressing the implications of experimental design and the confounding influence of placebo effects. As significant questions remain regarding the optimization of IPC for physical work capacity and muscle recovery, a standardized framework is urgently required to guide future research and evidence-based practice in human performance physiology.
Effect of prolonged sitting with stair climbing exercise "snacks" on circulating myokines profiles.
Fujie S, Rafiei H, Kanemoto M … +3 more , Konishi S, Iemitsu M, Little JP
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961282 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Recent studies have reported positive cardiometabolic responses when prolonged sitting is broken up with brief, bursts of vigorous activity termed “exercise snacks”. However, the mechanism underlying the potenti...
PURPOSE: Recent studies have reported positive cardiometabolic responses when prolonged sitting is broken up with brief, bursts of vigorous activity termed “exercise snacks”. However, the mechanism underlying the potential health benefits of exercise snacks remain unstudied. Exercise-induced muscle contractions can promote the release of myokines that contribute to muscle remodeling and systemic cardiometabolic adaptations through inter-organ signaling. This study aimed to profile the effects of stair-climbing exercise snacks on secretion of six established myokines in young normal-weight males and adults living with overweight or obesity. METHODS: In two separate randomized crossover studies, 11 young normal-weight men (NW; study 1) and 8 adults with overweight/obesity (OW; study 2) completed two experimental conditions: (i) sedentary (SED; 9-h sitting) and (ii) exercise snacks (SS; 15–30 s stair-climbing once per hour). The same high-glycemic index meals were consumed at 0, 3, and 6 h at each condition. The primary outcome was the changes in circulating myokines levels before and after the 9-h. RESULTS: Changes in circulating apelin levels from baseline to 9-h were higher in the SS condition compared to SED in both NW (SS: 102.2 ± 223.7 pg/mL, SED: -59.9 ± 131.6 pg/mL; P < 0.05) and OW (SS: 46.4 ± 85.3 pg/mL, SED: -120.3 ± 194.2 pg/mL; P < 0.05) groups, with no apparent difference between groups. Plasma concentration of other myokines remained unchanged across 9-h in SED and SS in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Hourly stair-climbing exercise snacks did not induce clear alterations in most measured myokines, whereas apelin levels were elevated across the day compared with prolonged sitting in both groups.
Sex- and age-specific blood lactate recovery kinetics after high-intensity exercise in trained youth: a model-based analysis.
Bardin J, Maciejewski H, Diry A … +3 more , Blazevich AJ, Thomas C, Ratel S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961281 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Post-exercise lactate recovery kinetics during growth remain poorly characterized, particularly in girls, limiting understanding of how age interacts with sex-specific metabolic adaptations. This study examined...
PURPOSE: Post-exercise lactate recovery kinetics during growth remain poorly characterized, particularly in girls, limiting understanding of how age interacts with sex-specific metabolic adaptations. This study examined age- and sex-related differences in blood lactate recovery following high-intensity exercise from childhood to adolescence, focusing on lactate exchange (γ₁) and removal (γ₂) capacities. METHODS: Seventy-six trained participants (41 boys, 35 girls) aged 10–17 years completed a 60 s all-out rowing test. Participants were stratified into four age groups: 10.0–11.9, 12.0–13.9, 14.0–15.9, and 16.0–17.9 years. Blood lactate concentrations were monitored over a 60-min passive recovery period and analyzed using the biexponential Freund model to estimate γ₁ and γ₂. End-exercise ([La]end) and peak ([La]max) lactate concentrations were measured, and absolute lactate quantities were calculated relative to lean body mass (QLaend, QLamax). RESULTS: Blood lactate concentrations and quantities increased with age, with boys showing higher QLaend and QLamax from 14 years onward (p < 0.001), likely reflecting greater lean mass and power output. Both γ₁ and γ₂ declined significantly with age (from 16 and 14 years, respectively; p < 0.05), indicating reduced lactate handling capacities. Girls consistently exhibited higher γ₁ values than boys (p < 0.001), which may indicate more favorable lactate exchange characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the first detailed characterization of post-exercise lactate recovery kinetics in growing girls, offering novel insight into female-specific metabolic adaptations and their interplay with age. These developmental patterns enhance understanding of age-associated metabolic adaptations and may inform sex- and age-tailored training strategies in pediatric populations.
Cellular profile of hematopoietic stem cells mobilized by exercise versus G-CSF in healthy related donors.
Siebold E, Infanti L, Gruber HJ … +8 more , Stehle GT, Maurer D, Ritter ET, Medinger M, Matteazzi F, Schmidt-Trucksäss A, Holbro A, Kröpfl JM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961280 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) depends on effective HSC mobilization with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), though some allogeneic donors experience severe side effects. This study c...
PURPOSE: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) depends on effective HSC mobilization with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), though some allogeneic donors experience severe side effects. This study compares G-CSF and acute maximal exercise for HSC collection and cellular composition in 10 healthy family donors, examining links to donor fitness and recipient outcomes. METHODS: Ten donors (3 females; 40.8 (18.3) years) and their recipients (n = 8; 3 females; 47.5 (18.5) years) were enrolled. Donors completed cardiopulmonary exercise testing with blood samples taken pre- and post-exercise and on apheresis day for flow cytometric analysis. Recipients were followed up on day ~ 30 post-transplant. RESULTS: Exercise significantly increased circulating total CD34+ cells (1.76-fold (0.51), p = 0.002) and select progenitor subsets (CD34+CD45dim, 1.74-fold (0.56), p = 0.006; and CD34+CD38+CD133+, 1.60-fold (0.46), p = 0.013), while other subsets showed no significant change (p > 0.05). Compared with post-exercise, apheresis resulted in markedly higher concentrations of total CD34+ cells (20.7-fold (9.7), p < 0.001) and all measured subsets. The largest enrichments were observed in CD34+ CD38-CD133+ (52.7-fold (69.3) p = 0.005) and CD34+CD38+CD133+ (38.2-fold (17.0), p < 0.001) populations. HSC collection at apheresis contained a 186.1-fold (72.3) elevation of immature granulocytes (p < 0.001) compared to the acute exercise (1.5-fold (0.3)). The proportions of apoptotic CD34+ cells and their subpopulations were similar post-exercise to apheresis (p > 0.05). Donor CD34+CD38- cell number was significantly negatively associated with recipient engrafting CD34+CD45dimCD90+ cells/µl (r=-0.70, p = 0.05, n = 8). CONCLUSION: Exercise might complement pharmacological mobilization by enhancing key HSC subgroups, improving collection quality, and supporting transplantation success; future research should evaluate combined approaches and the role of CRF in donor suitability and recipient outcomes.
Effect of unstable surface during loaded-inspiratory task on diaphragm and trunk muscle activity in stroke patients.
Liu F, Jones AYM, Tsang RCC … +2 more , Yam TTT, Tsang WWN
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961279 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is typically conducted with the patient seated on a stable surface. Considering the dual role of diaphragm in respiration and balance control, this study aims to investigate how...
PURPOSE: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is typically conducted with the patient seated on a stable surface. Considering the dual role of diaphragm in respiration and balance control, this study aims to investigate how different seating surfaces affect diaphragmatic and trunk muscle activity during loaded-inspiratory efforts in people after stroke. METHODS: Forty-one patients randomly performed 10 breaths with inspiratory resistance set at 50% of maximal inspiratory pressure in 2 sitting conditions on a chair (with and without a balance pad). Bilateral activity of the diaphragm (recorded by ultrasonography), sternocleidomastoid (SCM), abdominal muscles and erector spinae (ES), monitored by surface electromyography, were simultaneously recorded and analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. RESULTS: Compared with sitting on a stable surface, loaded-inspiratory efforts on an unstable surface significantly increased diaphragmatic contraction, reflected by diaphragm thickening fraction, by 20% and 16% on the non-affected and hemiplegic side, respectively (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, SCM activity significantly decreased by nearly 10% bilaterally, ES activity increased by 7% on both sides, while abdominal muscle activity showed no significant change. CONCLUSION: Incorporating postural challenges into inspiratory training appeared to enhance diaphragmatic and ES contraction and reduce SCM activation. The long-term effects of this approach on inspiratory function warrant further investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registration number: NCT06877338; 11 March 2025.
Hyperlactatemia and pulmonary gas exchange at rest and during exercise: lessons from patients on metformin.
Haouzi P, Stringer WW, Mccully J … +1 more , Pichurko BM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961278 · Publisher ↗
What effect does elevated resting hyperlactatemia have on the response to a moderate level of exercise and on the determination of the gas-exchange threshold (GET)? We first identified 163 diabetic patients treated with...
What effect does elevated resting hyperlactatemia have on the response to a moderate level of exercise and on the determination of the gas-exchange threshold (GET)? We first identified 163 diabetic patients treated with metformin, a medication that has been shown to produce, in a significant proportion of patients, an innocuous high resting hyperlactatemia and who underwent cardio-pulmonary exercise testing at the Cleveland Clinic. We found that 102 patients had resting [La] < 2 mM (Group 0); 37 had [La] between 2 and 3 mM (Group 1); 12 had [La] between 3 and 3.5 mM (Group 2); and 12 had [La] > 3.5 mM (Group 3). We examined relationships between resting [La], minute ventilation, pulmonary gas exchange, pH, and arterial blood gases at rest and during exercise (Welch’s test, and Cohen’s d to estimate effect size). None of the baseline data exhibited an effect size consistent with a clinically meaningful confounder. Group 3 had significantly lower HCO₃⁻ (22.5 ± 2.3 mM) than Group 0 (24.2 ± 2.4 mM, p < 0.01). [Formula: see text]E was also significantly higher in Group 3. Despite elevated lactate in Group 3 at rest, the respiratory exchange ratio (RER) averaged 0.85 ± 0.12 and did not differ from the other groups. GET could be identified based on the [Formula: see text]O₂/[Formula: see text]CO₂ relationship in all groups. Finally, the ventilatory and gas exchange responses to exercise showed no differences between groups. An elevated blood lactate concentration is insufficient, by itself, to reproduce the gas-exchange signature of supra-threshold exercise or to disrupt GET determination.
The X genotype of the ACTN3 sports gene is associated with the endurance of the sportsperson from the South Indian population: a short study.
Veena KM, Hasil VM, Hussain MA … +6 more , Laha S, Das R, Shenoy P, Chatra L, Prabhu R, Shetty P
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961277 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: ACTN3, which encodes alpha-actinin-3 protein influences sports performance. A common genetic variation in the ACTN3, known as R577X, results in either a functional (R allele) or non-functional (X allele) prot...
BACKGROUND: ACTN3, which encodes alpha-actinin-3 protein influences sports performance. A common genetic variation in the ACTN3, known as R577X, results in either a functional (R allele) or non-functional (X allele) protein, which alters the capabilities of a sportsperson. However, research on ACTN3 genotype distribution and its association with physical performance in the South-Indian population remains limited. METHODOLOGY: Genotyping of the ACTN3 R577X polymorphism was performed in both sportspersons (SP) (N = 13) and non-sportspersons (NSP) (N = 26) using PCR–RFLP and confirmed by sequencing. Various physical performance, group comparison and its association with genotype was evaluated using standardized statistical tests. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The XX-genotype frequency was observed in 69% of SP and 85% of NSP, while RX was present in 23% and 15% of SP and NSP respectively. SP demonstrated significantly higher performance than NSP in endurance and agility measures (p < 0.05). Within the SP group, though the descriptive trend showed higher mean scores in endurance-related tests in individuals carrying the XX-genotype, no significant genotype-based differences were observed upon multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: While descriptive trends were observed among XX-carriers in certain endurance-related tasks, ACTN3 genotype was not an independent predictor of performance after adjusting for training status. Furthermore, the similar genotype distribution between SP and NSP suggests that ACTN3 variation alone does not determine athletic performance, underscoring the multifactorial nature of athletic ability. Larger, adequately powered studies integrating genetic, environmental, and training-related factors are required to better understand gene–environment interactions and their potential implications for personalized performance optimization.
Acute effects of ischemic preconditioning on maximal strength and neuromuscular function.
Lubiak SM, Howard MA, Schmidt JT … +5 more , Shah NM, Patel NN, Prajapati AJ, Herring EK, Hill EC
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 41949635 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To examine the acute effects of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) implemented at a low (20 mmHg [IPCSHAM]), moderate (80% of total arterial occlusion pressure [TAOP]; [IPC80]), and high (220 mmHg [IPC220]) pressure...
PURPOSE: To examine the acute effects of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) implemented at a low (20 mmHg [IPCSHAM]), moderate (80% of total arterial occlusion pressure [TAOP]; [IPC80]), and high (220 mmHg [IPC220]) pressure prior to an acute bout of fatiguing resistance exercise. METHODS: Ten females randomly completed IPC on separate visits at a low, moderate, and high pressure across three cycles, where one cycle consisted of five minutes at the assigned pressure followed by five minutes of no pressure. Following IPC, participants performed one-set to volitional failure of unilateral, isotonic, concentric-only leg extension muscle actions at 30% of one-repetition maximum. Concentric peak torque (CPT) and maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC) were performed prior to and immediately following the bout of exercise, while surface electromyography (sEMG) was recorded continuously. All dependent variables were analyzed with Bayesian multilevel models. RESULTS: Total repetitions completed were 61.7 ± 38.9, 59.2 ± 33.8, and 58.4 ± 19.8 repetitions for IPCSHAM, IPC80, and IPC220, respectively. CPT and MVIC decreased from pretest to posttest (Mean difference [Meandiff] = 48.5 ± 0.9 Nm and 23.0 ± 0.4 Nm, respectively). From the first five to the last five repetitions, sEMG amplitude (Meandiff = -114.0 ± -16.0%) increased, while sEMG mean power frequency (Meandiff = 21.9 ± -0.6%) and neuromuscular efficiency (i.e., Nm:µV) (Meandiff = 0.18 ± 0.01 Nm:µV) decreased. CONCLUSION: Applying IPC did not exhibit an ergogenic effect on maximal strength, nor did it delay the onset of muscle fatigue. These findings suggested that IPC does not attenuate the typical fatigue-induced responses of acute resistance exercise.
Kinetics of rectus femoris stiffness, architecture, and muscle damage biomarkers in response to deceleration intensity during repeated sprints.
Garcia J, Slawinski J, Précart C … +5 more , Bouten J, Doro V, Le Garrec S, Yamashita D, Brocherie F
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41949634 · Publisher ↗
Horizontal deceleration (DEC) underpins sudden velocity changes in intermittent sports, but the DEC intensity-induced effect during repeated-sprint ability (RSA) on muscle and recovery kinetics are underexplored. Twelve...
Horizontal deceleration (DEC) underpins sudden velocity changes in intermittent sports, but the DEC intensity-induced effect during repeated-sprint ability (RSA) on muscle and recovery kinetics are underexplored. Twelve participants randomly performed an RSA protocol [3 sets of 8 × 20 m; 20-s passive recovery, 5-min rest] i) without DEC constraint post-sprint (DECfree), ii) with moderate enforced DEC (DEC10; 10-m braking distance post-sprint), and iii) with intense enforced DEC (DEC5; 5-m braking distance). DEC performances, rectus femoris stiffness and architecture and creatine kinase concentrations ([CK]) were assessed at Baseline, immediately after each set, and Post-24 h, -48 h and -72 h. Mean DEC was larger in DEC5 than in DEC10 and DECfree (both p < 0.001), and larger in DEC10 than in DECfree (p < 0.001). Relative shear modulus peaked at Set 3 (p = 0.021) irrespective of condition, but was higher in DEC5 than DECfree at Set 2, Set 3, Post-24 h and -48 h (all p ≤ 0.018), and higher than DEC10 at Set 3 and Post-24 h (both p ≤ 0.039). Muscle thickness was higher in DEC5 and DEC10 compared to DECfree (both p ≤ 0.004), whereas pennation angle and fascicle length showed no effects (all p ≥ 0.293). Relative [CK] exceeded Baseline at all time points (all p ≤ 0.021), peaking at Post-24 h (p = 0.021), but without difference across conditions (p = 0.135). Repeated intense decelerations during a multi-set repeated-sprint protocol exacerbated relative rectus femoris stiffness, accompanied by an increase in relative creatine kinase concentration immediately after sets, both remaining above Baseline at Post-72 h. Deceleration intensity should be considered to adequately prepare the musculotendinous system.
Preserved muscle oxidative capacity in COPD patients with hypoxemia treated by long term O therapy.
Adami A, Vitacca M, Casaburi R … +4 more , Salvi B, Simonelli C, Rossiter HB, Paneroni M
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940949 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is an established treatment for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) diagnosed with hypoxemia at rest or during activity. Chronic hypoxemia is a potential me...
PURPOSE: Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is an established treatment for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) diagnosed with hypoxemia at rest or during activity. Chronic hypoxemia is a potential mediator of loss of muscle mass and oxidative capacity in COPD. In this retrospective analysis, we sought to determine whether patients with COPD receiving LTOT have impaired muscle oxidative capacity compared to those without LTOT. METHODS: Personal characteristics, medical and smoking history, spirometry, diffusing capacity, use of LTOT, 6-min walk distance (6MWD), dyspnea symptoms (mMRC Dyspnea scale) were extracted from medical records. Gastrocnemius muscle oxidative capacity was assessed from the O2 consumption recovery rate constant (k) using near-infrared spectroscopy. Chi2 and t-tests assessed group differences. ANCOVA was used to compare k, after adjusting for known covariates (FEV1%predicted, age, race), in COPD patients with and without LTOT. RESULTS: 23 COPD with LTOT (LTOT) and 29 COPD (non-LTOT) were included in the analysis. The LTOT group tended to be older (p = 0.060), had worse spirometry and diffusing capacity (p < 0.023) and 6MWD (p < 0.001), but similar dyspnea (p > 0.105) compared to the non-LTOT group. After adjusting for covariates, k was not different between groups (LTOT, 1.06 ± 0.07 vs non-LTOT, 1.09 ± 0.26 min−1; p = 0.436). CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to our hypothesis, muscle oxidative capacity was not lower in LTOT-treated COPD compared to those without LTOT. Because COPD patients with LTOT had lower FEV1%pred and tended to be older (known correlates of k), our findings suggest that LTOT may protect against loss of muscle oxidative function in COPD patients with chronic hypoxemia.
The TUG-10 test detects exertional desaturation in patients with interstitial lung disease: correlation with 6-minute-walk-test, cardiopulmonary exercise test, and lung diffusion capacity.
Bismpos M, Boutou A, Zafeiridis A … +9 more , Zacharias A, Kritikou S, Rampiadou C, Gkalgkouranas I, Kastritseas L, Stanopoulos I, Markopoulou A, Pitsiou G, Dipla K
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940948 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The Time-Up-and-Go (TUG) test is clinical test, used to assess functional mobility in chronic diseases. A modified version, the TUG-10, involving 10 consecutive repetitions of the classic version, has been re...
BACKGROUND: The Time-Up-and-Go (TUG) test is clinical test, used to assess functional mobility in chronic diseases. A modified version, the TUG-10, involving 10 consecutive repetitions of the classic version, has been recently proposed to increase the physiological demand. However, TUG-10 ability to detect exertional desaturation in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) has not been investigated. PURPOSE: This study aimed to: (i) compare oxygen desaturation during the TUG-10 with 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in patients with ILD; (ii) examine correlations in exertional desaturation among these tests and with lung diffusing capacity (DLCO). METHODS: Twenty patients with fibrotic-ILD (70.1 ± 7.3years) performed in random order the TUG-10, 6MWT, and CPET (on a cycle ergometer). Correlations between desaturation indices (SpO₂nadir and SpO₂magnitude, ΔSpO₂) across tests and with DLCO were examined. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in desaturation among TUG-10, 6MWT, and CPET (ΔSpO2: -7.35 ± 3.8%, 7.0 ± 4.4%, and − 7.1 ± 3.7%, respectively; SpO2nadir: 89.2 ± 4.5%, 88.2 ± 5.2%, and 88.3 ± 4.6%). ΔSpO2 during TUG-10 correlated (p < 0.05) with ΔSpO2 in 6MWT (r = 0.62) and CPET (r = 0.61). SpO₂nadir during TUG-10 correlated (p < 0.001) with SpO₂nadir in 6MWT (r = 0.73) and CPET (r = 0.65). TUG-10 duration (84.4 ± 20.1s) correlated with 6MWT distance (r=-0.83; p < 0.001). SpO₂nadir during TUG-10 correlated with DLCO (r=-0.68; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The TUG-10 is a brief (< 1.5 min) test that can induce exertional desaturation in patients with ILD. TUG-10 desaturation indices strongly correlate with those in 6MWT and CPET, and with DLCO, making it a practical test for detecting exertional desaturation, especially in primary care or private practice with limited equipment and space.
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