European Journal Of Applied Physiology[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Comparison of two nutritional protocols in body re-composition of resistance-trained participants.
Vargas-Molina S, García-Palumbo A, García-Sillero M … +5 more , Bonilla DA, Petro JL, Aragon AA, Schoenfeld BJ, Benítez-Porres J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940947 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the effects of two high-protein nutritional protocols (isocaloric and moderate energy deficit), combined with a structured resistance training program, to a control condition that fol...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the effects of two high-protein nutritional protocols (isocaloric and moderate energy deficit), combined with a structured resistance training program, to a control condition that followed the same training program without dietary intervention or supervision, on body recomposition outcomes. One protocol generated a caloric deficit and the other protocol used an isocaloric diet. METHODS: Thirty participants (23.0 ± 3.4 years, 174.3 ± 8.0 cm, 80.3 ± 16.0 kg, 26.3 ± 4.5 kg·m− 2) were randomized into one of three nutritional conditions: an isocaloric diet group (ISO = 10), energy deficit group (DEF = 10) or a control group without nutritional supervision. Participants in ISO and DEF performed resistance training 4 days a week for 10 weeks and consumed nutritional protocols that contained the same amounts of protein but with different amounts of total calories. Body composition was assessed by dual X-ray densitometry at baseline and post-study. RESULTS: DEF reduced fat mass (FM; Δ = − 2.94 kg; p < 0.001) and fat-free adipose tissue (FFAT; Δ = − 0.47 kg; p = 0.016), while ISO showed smaller decreases (FM: Δ = − 1.41 kg; p = 0.051; FFAT: Δ = − 0.25 kg; p = 0.054). Fat-free mass (FFM) increased in both ISO (Δ = 0.97 kg; p < 0.001) and DEF (Δ = 1.04 kg; p = 0.009), as did FFM adjusted for FFAT (FFM − FFAT; ISO Δ = 1.22 kg; p = 0.002; DEF Δ = 1.50 kg; p < 0.001), whereas the control group showed no meaningful changes (all p ≥ 0.778). The Time × Group interaction was significant for FFM (p = 0.034) and FFM − FFAT (p = 0.006), but not for FM or FFAT (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both a moderate energy deficit and a maintenance-calorie high-protein diet can elicit body recomposition when compared to habitual practice, suggesting that elevated protein intake (2.5 g·kg⁻1·d⁻1) may facilitate simultaneous improvements in fat mass and FFM. These findings challenge the traditional model of energy balance.
Letter to the Editor : Acute effects of flossing band application on hamstring muscle mechanical properties and stretch tolerance: a randomized controlled crossover trial.
Das S, Jangra MK, Mehta K … +1 more , Saxena A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 41940946 · Publisher ↗
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Perspective: thermo-sensation to thermoregulation: advancing the anticipation debate via transient receptor potential (TRP) channels.
Marino FE
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 41940945 · Full text
PURPOSE: To revisit the anticipatory regulation model of exercise in heat and show how contemporary molecular evidence, particularly transient receptor potential (TRP) channels provide a plausible mechanistic basis for t...
PURPOSE: To revisit the anticipatory regulation model of exercise in heat and show how contemporary molecular evidence, particularly transient receptor potential (TRP) channels provide a plausible mechanistic basis for trajectory-sensitive regulation beyond than classic cellular catastrophe or limitation paradigm. APPROACH: By synthesising self-paced and fixed-rating of perceived exertion (RPE) findings with recent molecular and integrative physiology, it proposes a closed-loop framework where thermal signals from muscle/skin are transduced by TRPs and integrated centrally to shape pacing in real time. EVIDENCE: Evidence consistent with anticipatory regulation includes earlier environment-sensitive reductions in power and skeletal muscle electromyography before lethal core temperature divergence, RPE-clamp profiles that align subsequent heat storage across conditions, and field data showing pace selection that preserves safe heat-storage trajectories. At the molecular level, TRPV1 in skeletal-muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum links rising local temperature to Ca²⁺, signals then downstream leading to PGC-1α signalling promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and endurance capacity, while group III/IV afferents convey thermal/metabolic state to the central nervous system. Warm-sensitive TRPs in hypothalamic circuits operate near physiological brain temperature and contribute to thermoeffector drive, completing a periphery - central feedforward/feedback loop. CONCLUSIONS: A thermo-TRP closed loop framework can reconcile “integrated strain” and anticipatory models as different descriptions of the same system while clarifying the boundary between evidence and biological plausibility when extrapolating from molecular studies to whole body regulation. This framework yields testable predictions and clarifies why interventions such as skin cooling and heat acclimation improve safety margins by altering thermal trajectory, not just peak core temperature.
Effect of New Zealand blackcurrant extract on rest and walking-induced cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses in young adult Southeast Asian women.
Willems MET, Wannasorn S, Leelitthum K … +2 more , Ajjimaporn A, Nana A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41931138 · Publisher ↗
Beneficial metabolic and cardiovascular effects of anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) were primarily observed in studies with female and male Caucasian participants. We examined the effects of 14-day intake...
Beneficial metabolic and cardiovascular effects of anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) were primarily observed in studies with female and male Caucasian participants. We examined the effects of 14-day intake of NZBC extract (daily 210 mg of anthocyanins) during supine rest and moderate-intensity treadmill walking in Southeast Asian women (n = 16, age: 23 ± 5 years, BMI: 22.9 ± 3.8 kg·m− 2, body fat (BF): 35 ± 5%). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over design was used. Beat-by-beat (PhysioFlow® Endure™) and breath-by-breath (Cortex Metalyzer 3B) measurements were recorded during 10-min of supine rest and 30-min of moderate-intensity treadmill walking (speed: 4.84 ± 1.00 km·h− 1). At rest, NZBC extract had no effect on the cardiovascular, physiological and metabolic responses. During moderate-intensity exercise, only lower systemic vascular resistance (15%) was observed in 50% of the participants based on the smallest worthwhile change analysis (P = 0.08 for the cohort with moderate effect size, d = 0.62). There was a significant correlation between fat oxidation during rest and moderate-intensity walking in the placebo and NZBC extract condition. There was a trend (P = 0.08) for the linear relationship between the walking-induced placebo respiratory exchange ratio and change in fat oxidation by intake of NZBC extract. In Southeast Asian women, 14-day anthocyanin-rich NZBC extract did not elicit consistent cardiorespiratory and metabolic effects, although some participants showed reduced systemic vascular resistance. It is possible that there was not the bioavailability of plasma anthocyanin-induced metabolites that could alter cell function for metabolic responses. Further research should optimize dosing strategies and examine the roles of ethnicity, sex, and anthocyanin-induced metabolite bioavailability in shaping responsiveness to the intake of anthocyanins.
Dietary nitrate supplementation does not improve resistance exercise performance in resistance-trained women.
Brennan SN, Foster JM, Gerardo RT … +15 more , Molnar TJ, Tran R, Sottile CB, Geppert KS, Egiazarian M, Ballhagen AF, Ghimire M, Renwick JRM, Gough LA, Gonzalez SD, Allen JD, Rowland SN, Bailey SJ, Pennell A, Tan R
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41931137 · Publisher ↗
Dietary nitrate supplementation has been purported to enhance explosive exercise performance; however, research examining the efficacy of nitrate to improve resistance exercise performance, such as weightlifting, in wome...
Dietary nitrate supplementation has been purported to enhance explosive exercise performance; however, research examining the efficacy of nitrate to improve resistance exercise performance, such as weightlifting, in women is scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of an acute nitrate dose on neuromuscular performance during barbell back squat and bench press. Eighteen resistance-trained women were assigned in a randomized, double-blinded, crossover design to consume: (1) nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (PL; negligible nitrate) and (2) nitrate-rich beetroot juice (BR; ~ 6.7 mmol nitrate) 2.5 h prior to exercise. Participants performed explosive efforts during 1 set of 3 repetitions at 55%1RM, 60%1RM, and 65%1RM, with each set interspersed by 2 min of passive recovery. A linear transducer was used to assess peak and mean power and velocity of each set. There were no differences between conditions for back squat and bench press variables (P > 0.05) with the exception that performance declined in BR compared to PL in 60%1RM bench press mean power (BR: 201 ± 61 W vs. PL: 206 ± 61 W; P = 0.047, gz = -0.48) and mean velocity (BR: 0.68 ± 0.08 m/s vs. PL: 0.70 ± 0.08 m/s; P = 0.049, gz = -0.50). These results indicate that acute nitrate ingestion does not improve back squat performance and more research is required to elucidate if nitrate elicits ergolytic effects in resistance-trained women.
Acute responses of inflammatory markers, glucose, and myoglobin in blood following neuromuscular electrical stimulation.
Flodin J, Amiri P, Reitzner SM … +2 more , Ahmed AS, Ackermann PW
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41925840 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Physical inactivity contributes to systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) offers an alternative to exercise for individuals unable to perform voluntary physi...
PURPOSE: Physical inactivity contributes to systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) offers an alternative to exercise for individuals unable to perform voluntary physical activity. This study investigated whether a single submaximal NMES session alters inflammation-related proteins, muscle-damage markers and glucose levels in healthy adults. METHODS: Thirty-six healthy adults underwent a 2-hour NMES-session targeting the quadriceps, hamstring and gluteal muscles using wearable NMES-pants. Stimulation was delivered at individually tolerated intensities (visual analogue scale, (0-10), < 4). Venous blood samples were collected immediately before and after NMES. Inflammatory proteins and myoglobin were quantified using OLINK multiplex proteomic panel (92 proteins), and metabolic markers including glucose, lactate, pH and electrolytes were assessed using standard laboratory methods. RESULTS: Of the 92 inflammatory proteins analyzed, 13 were nominally affected by NMES. After correction for multiple comparison, FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3L) and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) remained significantly downregulated (Flt3L: 9.45 ± 0.12 to 9.11 ± 0.17, p < 0.001; FGF19; 9.43 ± 0.88 to 8.80 ± 0.84, p < 0.001; both normalized protein expression (NPX)). Myoglobin increased (7.70 ± 0.50 to 8.24 ± 0.83 NPX; p < 0.001), while blood glucose decreased modestly (5.35 ± 0.73 to 5.17 ± 0.36 mmol/L; p = 0.039). Lactate, pH, sodium and potassium remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: A single submaximal NMES-session elicited acute systemic responses characterized by downregulation of key inflammation-related proteins, mild myoglobin elevation and lower glucose levels - changes that mirror patterns observed after moderate exercise. These findings suggest that NMES at well-tolerated submaximal intensities can induce metabolic adaptations and may represent a safe, exercise-mimicking intervention to counteract inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in individuals with limited physical activity.
Effects of combining forearm postexercise muscle ischemia with inspiratory loading on cardiovascular and muscle oxygenation responses.
Ogawa T, Komura A, Horita K … +1 more , Koike J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 41925839 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of adding forearm postexercise muscle ischemia (PEMI) to inspiratory loading (IL) on pressor responses and muscle oxygenation. METHODS: Fourteen healthy adults performed three randomiz...
PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of adding forearm postexercise muscle ischemia (PEMI) to inspiratory loading (IL) on pressor responses and muscle oxygenation. METHODS: Fourteen healthy adults performed three randomized trials: inspiratory loading (IL; 5 min at 70% maximal inspiratory pressure [MIP] followed by 3 min at 65% MIP), isometric handgrip exercise with post-exercise muscle ischemia (HG; 1 min of handgrip followed by 3 min of PEMI), and combined (ILHG) trials. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured using a sphygmomanometer. Tissue oxygen saturation (StO₂) was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy in the intercostal muscles (IC) and vastus lateralis (VL). RESULTS: The MAP increased during IL in the IL trial (7.2 ± 7.7 mmHg vs. the control period, P < 0.05) and was higher in the ILHG trial than in IL alone (14.1 ± 7.8 mmHg); however, it did not differ from that in the HG trial (+ 12.7 ± 9.4 mmHg). The IC StO₂ decreased during IL in the IL trial (− 4.3 ± 7.6%; P < 0.05), without differing between the IL and ILHG trials. The VL StO₂ decreased during 70% MIP IL in the IL trial (− 3.2 ± 4.1%, P < 0.05), returned toward control levels during subsequent 65% MIP IL, and remained reduced in the ILHG trial (− 4.0 ± 6.4%, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Superimposing a limb muscle metaboreflex onto IL augmented the pressor response compared with IL alone; however, it did not further increase arterial pressure compared with PEMI alone. IL induced deoxygenation of the respiratory muscles, which was not exacerbated by additional metaboreflex activation, whereas deoxygenation in inactive limb muscles persisted under combined conditions.
Correction: Pure maximal glycolytic rate and metabolic contributions during a maximal sprint test across various positions in highly trained football players.
Kwak YJ, Choi HY, Yang WH
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41915062 · Publisher ↗
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Correction: Androgen levels of premenopausal females are not observably associated with body composition and physical performance, but may interact with hormonal contraceptive use.
Salmi VM, Karppinen JE, Piltonen TT … +4 more , Kyröläinen H, Hulmi JJ, Ihalainen JK, Mikkonen RS
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41915061 · Full text
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The effects of ischemic preconditioning and placebo maneuvers are similar during arm-cranking performance in upper-body trained athletes.
O'Brien L, McLaughlin M, Gillen J … +1 more , Jacobs I
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Jun · PMID 41915060 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of local ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on 45 s arm-crank Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) performance and accompanying physiological responses in athletes. METHODS: Eighteen...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of local ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on 45 s arm-crank Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) performance and accompanying physiological responses in athletes. METHODS: Eighteen (9 male, 9 female) athletes (22.8 ± 3.5 years) completed a baseline and three experimental trials: control (CON; 30 min rest), IPC (4 ⋅ 5 min bilaterally at limb occlusion pressure), and placebo (PLA; 4 ⋅ 5 min at 40 mm Hg). WAnT performance, oxygen consumption (V̇O2), heartrate (HR), near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and blood lactate [La–]b responses were assessed. RESULTS: Absolute mean power outputs (MPOA; W) were similar between IPC and PLA (p = 0.06) and significantly greater than CON (IPC: 370 ± 105, PLA: 363 ± 102, CON: 349 ± 91 W, p < 0.001). IPC increased relative MPO (MPOR; W·kg–1) compared to PLA and CON (IPC: 4.8 ± 1.0, PLA: 4.7 ± 1.0, CON: 4.6 ± 0.9 W·kg–1, p < 0.001). V̇O2, HR, NIRS, and [La–]b responses during and post-exercise were unaffected by IPC. CONCLUSIONS: Acute IPC of the arms elicited trivial differences in performance during 45 s arm-cranking WAnTs in upper-body trained athletes. Under these specific conditions, no changes were detected in the measured physiological responses, which limits insight into potential mechanisms for IPC to enhance performance in arm-dominant exercises.
Exercise-induced fatigability is exacerbated amongst older adults with cerebral palsy compared to younger counterparts.
Gravholt AEE, Fernandez B, Chauvet L … +4 more , Zeghoudi N, Millet GY, Buizer AI, Lapole T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915059 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Adults with Cerebral Palsy (CP) often report an earlier decline in mobility when ageing than typically developing (TD) peers. Part of this decline might stem from alterations in exercise-induced fatigability. Th...
PURPOSE: Adults with Cerebral Palsy (CP) often report an earlier decline in mobility when ageing than typically developing (TD) peers. Part of this decline might stem from alterations in exercise-induced fatigability. The current investigation aimed to compare age-related changes in fatigability between individuals with CP and TD peers. We hypothesized greater age-related increase in exercise-induced fatigability in adults with CP than TD peers. METHODS: Young (CPY; 18–25 years; n=7) and older (CPO; 35–50 years; n=8) adults with CP were included and matched to TD counterparts (TDY/TDO). Participants completed an incremental fatiguing protocol up to task failure on a bike equipped with built-in force transducers, allowing a rapid switch to isometric strength measurement. Each stage lasted 3 minutes and was immediately followed by a neuromuscular function evaluation before increasing the cycling power for the next stage. Neuromuscular evaluation allowed us to measure knee extensor isometric maximal force (MVC), voluntary activation (VA), and potentiated twitch (TwPOT) amplitude at baseline (Pre), after each stage, and at task failure. RESULTS: At Pre, CPO exhibited lower MVC (CPO: 141 ± 31, lowest other group: 247 ± 117 Nm) and TwPOT (CPO: 50 ± 20, lowest other group: 84 ± 15 Nm) compared to all other groups and VA was lower in CPO than in TD groups (CPO: 70 ± 9, lowest TD group: 89 ± 4 %). The fatiguing task led to an earlier task failure amongst CPO compared to all others (CPO: 5.01 ± 0.68, lowest other group: 6.92 ± 1.23 stages completed). During the common stages, CPO exhibited an earlier and more pronounced decrease in MVC (CPO: 37 ± 12, lowest other group: 51 ± 8 % of Pre at last common stage) and VA (CPO: 71 ± 24, lowest other group: 88 ± 15 % of Pre at last common stage) at most timepoints than other groups. TwPOT force amongst CPO was only different to CPY following the second stage. At task failure, CPO showed an attenuated decrease in TwPOT force compared to TD groups (CPO: 70 ± 25, lowest TD group: 38 ± 12 % of Pre). No differences between groups were noted for MVC nor VA at task failure. CONCLUSION: Earlier fatigue was noted in older participants with CP compared to younger participants, and to age-matched TD participants for a given relative workload. This difference in fatigability during the common stages may reflect greater central alterations (VA).
Attenuated aortic-cerebral pulsatile transmission with posture-related increases in stroke volume in healthy young adults.
Sakamoto R, Ninomiya Y, Fukuie M … +2 more , Takahashi K, Sugawara J
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915058 · Publisher ↗
Excessive pulsatile hemodynamics increased under higher stroke volume (SV) impose mechanical stress on the cerebrovasculature, requiring attenuation before reaching the brain. SV is greater in the supine than upright, ye...
Excessive pulsatile hemodynamics increased under higher stroke volume (SV) impose mechanical stress on the cerebrovasculature, requiring attenuation before reaching the brain. SV is greater in the supine than upright, yet the characteristics of aortic-to-cerebral pulsatile transmission under such conditions are unclear. To address this, we compared the transfer function gain from aortic pressure (AoP) to middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv, measured by transcranial Doppler) across postures that altered SV. Fifteen young adults underwent four postures: semi-sitting at 60° and 30° backrest, supine, and supine with leg elevation. AoP was estimated from the radial arterial pressure through the general transfer function. AoP and MCAv spectra were analyzed by heart rate harmonic analysis to exclude the effect of postural difference in heart rate. SV (via the Modelflow method) was significantly greater in the supine than in the semi-recumbent positions (60° vs. supine, P < 0.05 for both). There was a significant difference in AoP spectra among postures (main effect of condition, P < 0.01). However, transfer function gain was significantly attenuated in the supine positions (60° vs. supine positions P < 0.05 for both), resulting in no significant increase in MCAv spectra across postures (main effect of condition P > 0.05). Transfer function gain decreased with decreasing systemic vascular resistance (r(rm) = 0.67, P < 0.01). Therefore, cerebral pulsatility may not increase despite greater SV, owing to an attenuation in aortic–cerebral pulsatile transmission associated with changes in systemic vascular resistance in healthy young adults.
Dose-dependent effects of apilarnil on muscle damage and endurance performance during exhaustive swimming exercise in rats: translational ınsights for sports physiology.
Çakar F, Şimşek H
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915057 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Intensive exercise is known to induce muscle damage accompanied by excessive oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which may compromise performance and recovery. Apilarnil, a nutrient-rich bee product con...
PURPOSE: Intensive exercise is known to induce muscle damage accompanied by excessive oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which may compromise performance and recovery. Apilarnil, a nutrient-rich bee product containing bioactive phenolic compounds and flavonoids, has been proposed to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; however, its role in exercise-induced physiological stress remains insufficiently characterized. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were allocated into five groups: Control (CN), Without Exercise and Apilarnil (WEAP), Exercise (EX), Exercise + Apilarnil 0.2 g.kg−1 (EX + AP1), and Exercise + Apilarnil 0.4 g.kg−1 (EX + AP2). Exercised rats performed daily swimming (30 min/day) for 14 days, while apilarnil (0.2 or 0.4 g·kg−1) or vehicle was administered once daily throughout the 14-day protocol. An exhaustive swimming test was conducted at the end of the 14-day period, after which serum muscle damage markers, lipid peroxidation, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant enzyme activities were assessed in skeletal and cardiac muscle tissues. RESULTS: Compared with WEAP, exhaustive swimming increased muscle damage markers, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory cytokine levels. Compared with EX, apilarnil supplementation attenuated oxidative and inflammatory responses and enhanced endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities. Notably, the lower apilarnil dose resulted in the greatest improvement in swimming performance, whereas performance benefits were attenuated at the higher dose despite favorable biochemical profiles. CONCLUSION: Apilarnil supplementation modulated exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in skeletal and cardiac muscle tissues, with dose-dependent effects observed primarily in biochemical markers. In contrast, endurance performance follows a non-linear pattern, peaking at the lower dose and diminishing at the higher dose, underscoring the need to identify an optimal ergogenic dose.
Comparison between soldiers and fitness-matched civilians on sustained attention, neuromuscular fatigue and perceived responses during an exhaustive cognitive-motor dual-task.
Goepp T, Hot P, Hayes M … +1 more , Rupp T
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41886065 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Cognitive-motor dual-task (CMDT) is essential in military operations, yet it remains unknown whether soldiers cope with fatigue, important perceived exertion and cognitive degradation differently from fitness-ma...
PURPOSE: Cognitive-motor dual-task (CMDT) is essential in military operations, yet it remains unknown whether soldiers cope with fatigue, important perceived exertion and cognitive degradation differently from fitness-matched civilians. This study compared sustained attention, neuromuscular fatigue and perceived effort during an incremental cycling and cognitive test (ICCT) in soldiers versus fitness-matched civilians. METHODS: Thirty-two trained participants (13 soldiers) performed the ICCT, consisting of 3-min CMDT stages with increasing cycling power (starting at 1 W∙kg−1, + 0.4 W∙kg−1/stage) until task-failure. Sustained attention was assessed with the Mackworth task. Neuromuscular fatigue was measured via isometric knee-extensor maximal voluntary contraction (IMVC) and femoral nerve stimulation (peak twitch, Pt; voluntary activation, VA). Cycling and mental effort were rated using 100-points Borg scale. RESULTS: Cycling power and heart rate at task-failure were comparable between groups (all P ≥ 0.13). Mackworth performance was similarly impaired at task-failure (P = 0.47). IMVC and VA declines throughout the ICCT were comparable between groups (P ≥ 0.25), but Pt decreased more in soldiers (-53 ± 15%) than in civilians (-33 ± 12%; P < 0.001). Soldiers also reported lower cycling (-6 ± 3 a.u.; P = 0.020) and mental (-13 ± 5 a.u.; P = 0.003) effort. CONCLUSION: Overall, military position did not confer an advantage in dual-task performance or resistance to central motor command impairments, but was associated with a reduced perception of effort despite greater peripheral fatigue under an exhaustive situation.
Frequency-dependent adaptations in energy expenditure, strength, mood, and inflammation following 16 to 32 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance training in older women.
Elshakankiry AM, Hunter GR, Martins C … +1 more , Fisher G
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41874666 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: We have previously shown that 16 weeks of combined aerobic–resistance training in older women decreases non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) when performed 3 times/week, but not when performed once or t...
BACKGROUND: We have previously shown that 16 weeks of combined aerobic–resistance training in older women decreases non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) when performed 3 times/week, but not when performed once or twice weekly. OBJECTIVES: To examine changes from weeks 16 to 32 in anthropometrics, body composition, fitness, cytokines, mood, and energy expenditure (EE) components among training frequencies in older women. METHODS: Sedentary women (60–74 y) previously randomized to 1 + 1, 2 + 2, or 3 + 3 sessions/wk of supervised combined aerobic–resistance training continued the program from weeks 16 to 32. Total EE (TEE) (doubly labeled water), resting EE (REE) (indirect calorimetry), training-related EE (TREE) (validated estimates), NEAT = activity EE (AEE) − TREE (AEE = 0.9×TEE − REE), fat mass (FM), and fat-free mass (FFM) (DXA), V̇O₂max (treadmill), mood/fatigue, and serum cytokines were measured at weeks 16 and 32. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used with Tukey posthocs. RESULTS: Fifty-seven women contributed anthropometry/fitness/cytokines; 44 contributed EE components. Weight decreased, whereas FM (kg and %), FFM, V̇O₂max, IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, fatigue, vigor and REE were unchanged. Bench- and leg-press strength increased across groups. Depression varied by group (lower in 3 + 3 vs. 2 + 2; P = 0.044). TEE differed between groups (P = 0.017; 2 + 2 > 1 + 1 and 3 + 3). TREE increased over time (P = 0.002) and differed by group (P < 0.001). NEAT showed a time-by-group interaction (P = 0.049), increasing only in 3 + 3 (P = 0.044). CONCLUSION: High-frequency (3 + 3) combined aerobic-resistance training was associated with increased NEAT between weeks 16–32, but not lower frequencies. However, the 2 + 2 group continued to have the highest NEAT overall.
Cold as a therapeutic frontier: place of whole-body cryotherapy in modern medicine.
Dziugieł R, Bołtuć-Dziugieł K, Jaroszyński A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 May · PMID 41874665 · Publisher ↗
Originally, whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) was employed as a therapeutic method for alleviating pain associated with various musculoskeletal conditions in sports medicine. In recent years, its application has gained increa...
Originally, whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) was employed as a therapeutic method for alleviating pain associated with various musculoskeletal conditions in sports medicine. In recent years, its application has gained increasing attention across multiple medical fields, particularly in rheumatology, psychiatry, and neurology. WBC appears to exert anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects primarily through the modulation of cytokine activity, leading to pain reduction and improved functional outcomes. Cardiovascular responses are generally well-tolerated in healthy individuals, although contraindications must be carefully assessed. In rheumatologic conditions—especially rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia—WBC has shown efficacy in reducing inflammation and disease activity. Emerging evidence also supports its adjunctive use in the treatment of depression and multiple sclerosis, with observed benefits in mood disorder symptoms, fatigue, and even markers of oxidative stress. While WBC is considered safe when applied under controlled conditions, study findings remain heterogeneous, largely due to variability in treatment protocols and patient populations. The long-term effects of WBC are still insufficiently explored. Future research should focus on standardizing treatment parameters and identifying the patient subgroups most likely to benefit. Overall, WBC shows promise as a complementary intervention in contemporary clinical practice. This review aims to discuss current evidence regarding WBC’s physiological effects, clinical applications, safety profile, and procedural requirements.
Acute effects of foam rolling vs. passive rest following a single bout of complex contrast training.
Rodoplu C, Fischer J, Burger C … +5 more , Arabacı M, Topçu H, Şekir U, Arabacı R, Konrad A
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41874664 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: A single session of complex contrast training (CCT) can induce lower-limb fatigue, making the optimization of post-CCT recovery strategies essential. Foam rolling (FR) is widely used and is believed to enhance a...
PURPOSE: A single session of complex contrast training (CCT) can induce lower-limb fatigue, making the optimization of post-CCT recovery strategies essential. Foam rolling (FR) is widely used and is believed to enhance acute recovery. Therefore, this study examined the acute effects of FR compared with passive recovery (PR) following a single bout of CCT on dynamic balance (YBT), static balance (SLST), horizontal jump performance (SLHD), vertical jump performance (CMJ), and muscle excitation measured via surface electromyography (sEMG). METHODS: Twenty-one active males completed the study using a crossover design, being randomly allocated to FR and PR conditions. Assessments were performed at three time points: pre-test, immediately post-CCT (mid-test), and after the recovery intervention (post-test). Participants performed the CCT protocol prior to recovery (5 sets × 6 repetitions at 80% and 30% of 1RM). Test measures included YBT, SLST, SLHD, CMJ, and sEMG recordings from selected lower-limb muscles. RESULTS: FR resulted in significant acute improvements in YBT, SLST, and SLHD compared with PR (p < 0.05), whereas no meaningful differences were detected in CMJ performance (p > 0.05). Although time effects were observed in sEMG excitation for some muscles (p < 0.05), no intervention × time interactions were detected (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: FR is an effective acute recovery strategy for enhancing dynamic and static balance as well as horizontal jump performance following CCT. However, its influence on vertical jump performance and muscle excitation appears limited. Future research should incorporate broader neuromuscular assessments, varied FR protocols, and diverse populations to better clarify underlying mechanisms and optimize recovery outcomes.
Hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio in female and male children and adolescents across the velocity spectrum.
Searles SA, Shoemaker ME, Cramer JT … +1 more , Gillen ZM
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41854869 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio (HTQ) and HTQ activation (HTQ) across the velocity spectrum in male and female children and adolescents. METHODS: Seventeen children (n = 9 females, n = 8 males...
PURPOSE: This study examined hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio (HTQ) and HTQ activation (HTQ) across the velocity spectrum in male and female children and adolescents. METHODS: Seventeen children (n = 9 females, n = 8 males) and 22 adolescents (n = 11 females, n = 11 males) participated. Ultrasound images quantified quadriceps and hamstrings muscle cross-sectional area (CSA). Peak torque (PT) was taken from maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) and isokinetic leg extensions and flexions from 60 to 300° s. HTQ was calculated by dividing hamstrings CSA by quadriceps CSA, and HTQ was PT from leg flexion divided by leg extension for all contractions. HTQ was calculated as electromyographic (EMG) amplitude from leg flexion contraction divided by EMG amplitude from leg extension muscle action. A two-way factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) examined differences in HTQ. Three-way mixed-factorial ANOVAs examined differences in HTQ and HTQ. RESULTS: HTQ was greater for males than females (p = 0.003). For children, HTQ from MVIC was lower than 120-240° s (p ≤ 0.023), and HTQ from 60° s was lower than 240° s (p = 0.047). For adolescents, HTQ from MVIC was lower than 60-180° s (p ≤ 0.012). For HTQ, there were no significant differences (p ≥ 0.352). CONCLUSIONS: Age group differences in HTQ with no age group differences in HTQ or HTQ may speak to sex-based developmental differences in muscle hypertrophy accompanying growth and development.
Human dorsiflexor muscles are resilient against voluntary activation failure following high-intensity interval exercise.
Vaziri A, Richards AJ, Malekzadeh R … +2 more , Paris MT, Cheng AJ
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41854868 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Central fatigue is defined as a progressive exercise-induced failure in the voluntary activation (VA) of the muscle. Muscle afferent III/IV neurons have been previously shown to be major contributors to central...
PURPOSE: Central fatigue is defined as a progressive exercise-induced failure in the voluntary activation (VA) of the muscle. Muscle afferent III/IV neurons have been previously shown to be major contributors to central fatigue development by detecting increases in intramuscular metabolite accumulation. Yet, during high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), few studies show consistent evidence of VA failure using the brief interpolated twitch technique (ITT). This study aimed to investigate whether sustained maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC) used in VA assessments will reveal pronounced VA failure following HIIE. METHODS: Ten young, recreationally active individuals (7 M; 3 F) performed six sets of 30 s all-out dorsiflexion contractions at an isokinetic velocity of 160°/s. Immediately after each HIIE set, VA was assessed during a 60 s sustained MVC whereby 100 Hz doublet interpolation was performed every 10 s (ITT). There was a 2 min rest between each HIIE set. RESULTS: %VA remained stable near 90% throughout the HIIE. No main effect of time was observed for %VA across the 60 s MVCs (p = 0.48). Although a main effect of set was present (p = 0.009), reflecting small overall reductions in %VA across repeated HIIE bouts, post-hoc comparisons revealed no significant differences between baseline and post-set %VA at any time point during the 60 s MVCs. CONCLUSION: The human dorsiflexor muscles are exceptionally resilient to impairments in VA during metabolically-demanding HIIE.
Correction: Early detection of hypovolemia by venous pulse wave velocity and vena cava ultrasound imaging.
Romanelli M, Ermini L, Policastro P … +4 more , Allois R, Mesin L, Pasquero P, Roatta S
Eur J Appl Physiol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41843125 · Full text
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