Int J Sports Med [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Improving assessment of post-exercise hypotension as a predictor of training efficacy.
Mazzolari R, Rodrigues P, Hecksteden A
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jul · PMID 42398956 · Publisher ↗
Post-exercise hypotension (PEH) has been proposed as a promising biomarker for predicting the long-term blood-pressure (BP) response to exercise training. This study assessed the reliability of PEH-from single- and avera...
Post-exercise hypotension (PEH) has been proposed as a promising biomarker for predicting the long-term blood-pressure (BP) response to exercise training. This study assessed the reliability of PEH-from single- and averaged-session measurements-in 33 sedentary adults completing an 8-week aerobic exercise program. Resting BP was measured before and after the intervention; acute PEH was defined as the change in BP from pre-exercise to 10-minute post-exercise recovery and was measured across five separate sessions. Data were analysed using mixed-effects models. The impact of aggregating measurements on reliability and its correlation with chronic BP reduction was assessed using analytical formulas and Monte Carlo resampling. The reliability of single-session PEH measurements was poor, with a high standard error of measurement (systolic BP: 4.5 [4.0, 5.1] mmHg; diastolic BP: 4.3 [3.8, 4.9] mmHg) and low intraclass correlation coefficients (systolic BP: 0.24 [0.08, 0.29]; diastolic BP: 0.31 [0.13, 0.43]). Reliability improved substantially when values were averaged across multiple sessions. The correlation between acute PEH and chronic BP reduction also strengthened with averaging, albeit with diminishing returns. These findings support the potential of PEH as a predictive biomarker, particularly when averaged over several training sessions. The optimal number of sessions should balance statistical improvement with practical feasibility.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Kong DH, Jang J, Cho SI … +4 more , Yang SJ, Lee DW, Kim JG, Park HY
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349518 · Publisher ↗
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of adding neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to rehabilitation exercise on quadriceps muscle strength (primary outcome) and secondary exploratory outcomes af...
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of adding neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to rehabilitation exercise on quadriceps muscle strength (primary outcome) and secondary exploratory outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Twenty-four male participants were randomly allocated to rehabilitation exercise alone or combined with NMES. Both groups performed range of motion exercises during weeks 1 to 3, followed by progressive quadriceps strengthening three times weekly for 9 weeks. Both groups improved in isokinetic muscle function, with larger effect sizes in the RE+NMES group (d = 0.883-1.488) than in the RE group. Patient-reported outcomes improved in both groups for the Lysholm score (d = 1.527 vs. 0.653), whereas changes in the IKDC score were greater in RE+NMES (d = 1.006 vs. 0.034). Balance improved with larger effects in RE+NMES under stable (d = 0.710 vs. 0.160) and unstable conditions (d = 1.988 vs. 0.029), while Y-balance showed similar changes. Muscle morphology showed greater increases in RE+NMES for cross-sectional area (d = 1.127 vs. 0.070) and thickness (d = 0.737 vs. 0.203). Biomarker responses were also larger in RE+NMES. Overall, NMES was associated with favorable trends across several functional and clinical outcomes.
Exercise Intensity Effects on Irisin in Master Athletes and Links With Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Body Fat.
Leite PLA, Maciel LA, Patricio RCB … +8 more , Lima WS, Silva CVS, Aguiar SS, Neto IVS, Rosa TDS, Ramos IV, Campbell C, Simoes HG
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335978 · Publisher ↗
Circulating irisin, a myokine linked to exercise-induced metabolic adaptation, may respond to exercise intensity and serve as a marker of training status. This study assessed intensity-dependent acute irisin responses in...
Circulating irisin, a myokine linked to exercise-induced metabolic adaptation, may respond to exercise intensity and serve as a marker of training status. This study assessed intensity-dependent acute irisin responses in master athletes and recreationally trained men, baseline irisin associations with maximal oxygen uptake and body fat, and fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5-related pathways using bioinformatics. Master endurance athletes (=11; 49.9±5.8 y) and recreationally trained men (=10; 49.9±7.2 y) completed two running sessions (moderate and severe), and plasma irisin was measured at rest and 15- and 120-minutes post-exercise. Exercise intensity significantly modulated acute irisin responses (time×intensity, =0.006), with greater and earlier increases after severe exercise. Master endurance athletes exhibited consistently higher irisin than recreationally trained men (<0.001), with intensity effects in both groups; baseline irisin was inversely associated with body fat (=0.018) and positively with maximal oxygen uptake (<0.001). Complementary RNA-seq analyses showed an age-related decline in skeletal muscle fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 expression, preserved by long-term endurance training via upregulated mitochondrial and energy metabolism pathways. Together, these findings indicate that exercise intensity and lifelong training modulate irisin regulation, supporting its use as a biomarker of aerobic fitness, metabolic adaptation, and healthy aging.
Evolution of the Australian Institute of Sport Supplement Program over the last 25 years.
Burke LM, Cox GR, Desbrow B … +4 more , Minehan M, Morabito A, Shaw G, Slater GJ
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42309155 · Publisher ↗
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Sports Supplement Program, launched in 2000, promotes evidence-based, safe, and legal supplement use in Australian high-performance sport. It has evolved into a comprehensive Frame...
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Sports Supplement Program, launched in 2000, promotes evidence-based, safe, and legal supplement use in Australian high-performance sport. It has evolved into a comprehensive Framework in response to regulatory change, rapid growth in supplement products, and widespread access to both information and misinformation. Founded on a "food first" philosophy, it recognises circumstances where supplements offer unique advantages: addressing nutrient gaps, providing convenience pre-, during and post-exercise, and supporting performance. Its principles were shaped to counter fragmented regulation, aggressive marketing, and athlete reliance on non-expert information sources. Central to the Framework is a dynamic ABCD classification system, categorising supplements by the strength of scientific evidence for effectiveness, safety, and anti-doping risk. Key initiatives include web-based education resources, strategic supplement provision, applied research, and robust governance-especially batch testing and integrity processes-to reduce anti-doping rule violations. The Framework now serves as a benchmark for national and international sporting bodies and has driven a cultural shift that places sports dietitians at the forefront of supplement guidance and enhances collaboration across performance support and medicine staff. Future priorities include deeper digital integration, adequate resourcing to remain contemporary, and broader athlete stakeholder engagement to maintain rigorous, evidence-informed standards.
Preseason Passive Torque Asymmetries in Soccer Players with Hamstring Strain Injury.
Takeuchi K, Sakamoto K, Neya M … +3 more , Nakamura M, Fukata R, Komatsu T
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42302860 · Publisher ↗
The purpose of this study was to investigate preseason side-to-side differences between injured and non-injured legs in range of motion and passive torque, as well as comparisons between injured and non-injured groups, i...
The purpose of this study was to investigate preseason side-to-side differences between injured and non-injured legs in range of motion and passive torque, as well as comparisons between injured and non-injured groups, in collegiate soccer players who did and did not sustain hamstring strain injuries. Collegiate male soccer players (=108) participated in this study. Range of motion (straight leg raising and passive knee extension) and passive torque were assessed at the beginning of the preseason. Hamstring strain injuries were defined as any acute posterior thigh pain that occurred in non-contact situations, resulting in the immediate cessation of exercise. Eighty-four players were included in the analysis, and 10 players suffered hamstring strain injuries. There were no significant side-to-side differences or between-group differences in the range of motion. There was a significant difference in the passive torque between injured and non-injured legs (=0.04). There was no significant difference in the range of motion asymmetries between groups, whereas passive torque asymmetry was significantly greater in the injured group (<0.01). The results suggested that preseason passive torque asymmetry may be a potential risk factor for hamstring strain injury in collegiate male soccer players.
Musculoskeletal Burden in German Equestrians: Hip-Specific Symptoms and Risk Factors.
Ramsauer C, Hepp P, Theopold JD … +2 more , Kühnapfel A, Henkelmann R
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42285140 · Publisher ↗
Equestrian sport is a major component of German athletics, with broad recreational participation and a strong competitive sector. In 2019, about 2.32 million people identified as active riders, and more than 60,000 compe...
Equestrian sport is a major component of German athletics, with broad recreational participation and a strong competitive sector. In 2019, about 2.32 million people identified as active riders, and more than 60,000 competitional licences were issued in 2021, reflecting substantial competitive engagement across the Olympic disciplines and national performance levels. Hip pain is a frequent and clinically relevant complaint among athletes and can stem from structural, degenerative, or overuse-related causes. In riding, the hip joint is crucial for transmitting forces and coordinating rider-horse interaction. Fine adjustments in tension and release at the hip allow riders to follow and influence the horse's movement; pain can therefore disrupt key control mechanisms. Studies consistently show a notable burden of musculoskeletal symptoms among equestrians. Hip pain affects 8-19% of riders and is associated with impaired pelvic stability, reduced lower limb control, and performance limitations. Chronic symptoms frequently relate to previous injuries, and older riders report persistent discomfort, likely due to cumulative mechanical loading. This study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics of hip problems in competitive German equestrians and identify relevant risk and protective factors.
Trans-inclusion in sports: history, scientific evidence and future directions.
Krishna AM, Bauer C, Way KL … +3 more , Jones-Freeman B, Cheung AS, Lamon S
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42276143 · Publisher ↗
Sport is traditionally organised into male and female categories, but the increasing visibility of transgender athletes has prompted sporting organisations worldwide to develop relevant eligibility regulations. These pol...
Sport is traditionally organised into male and female categories, but the increasing visibility of transgender athletes has prompted sporting organisations worldwide to develop relevant eligibility regulations. These policies range from hormone thresholds and open categories to puberty-based exclusions and blanket bans yet are rarely based on direct scientific evidence. This review aims to examine the historical evolution of transgender inclusion in sport, map current international regulations and evaluate the evidence underpinning these approaches. First, we outline the temporal evolution of eligibility frameworks. We then review the roles of sex hormones in performance-relevant systems and assess how these mechanisms may result in physiological changes in transgender athletes receiving testosterone or estradiol-based gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Studies demonstrate that GAHT induces physiological changes that may translate to measures of physical fitness, but are limited by cross-sectional designs, small cohorts, short follow-up periods, heterogeneous treatment regimens and outcome measures that are rarely sport specific. Therefore, the certainty of this evidence remains low, and existing data are insufficient to support uniform policies across all disciplines. We therefore recommend that fairness and safety considerations should not be resolved through biology alone and propose a structured, sport-specific framework for policy development and revision under uncertainty.
Vigorous Sports Participation and Plasma Lipids in Lean Adolescents: The Analysis of Behaviors of Children During Growth Study.
von Ah Morano AE, Coombes JS, Fernandes R
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42276112 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to analyze, among lean adolescents, the changes in lipids associated with sports participation and the role of time spent in vigorous sports participation. Lean adolescents of both sexes were fo...
The aim of this study was to analyze, among lean adolescents, the changes in lipids associated with sports participation and the role of time spent in vigorous sports participation. Lean adolescents of both sexes were followed for 12 months (121 boys and 51 girls [aged 11-17 y]). Lipids were the dependent variables (total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triacylglycerol and the atherogenic index of plasma). Adolescents were divided according to sports participation (engaged and not engaged), with sports participation intensity assessed by heart rate during sports. Multivariate models were adjusted by ethnicity, biological maturation, body fat, lean soft tissue, insulin resistance, and inflammation. The atherogenic index of plasma changed in favor of boys (engaged: -0.021 [95% confidence interval: -0.060 to 0.019] versus not engaged: 0.117 [95% confidence interval: 0.028 to 0.207]) and girls engaged in sports (engaged: -0.062 [95% confidence interval: -0.102 to -0.022] versus not engaged: 0.098 [95% confidence interval: -0.018 to 0.214]). The main determinants of changes in the atherogenic index of plasma among boys were changes in lean soft tissue (=-0.415 and =0.050) and vigorous physical activity among girls (=-0.291 and =0.012). In summary, sports participation was associated with improvements in lipid profile among lean adolescents.
Factors to Consider When Comparing Injury Rates between Sports and Sex on Ski Slopes.
Ruedl G, Löberbauer H, Burtscher M
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42276111 · Publisher ↗
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Combined FIFA 11+ Kids and Neuromuscular Training Effects in Youth Soccer Players.
Tounsi M, Aiouaz F, Acheche A … +3 more , Racil G, Padulo J, Trabelsi Y
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42263694 · Publisher ↗
Integrating proprioceptive and neuromuscular exercises into the FIFA 11+ Kids program may enhance motor performance and postural stability in youth athletes. This study aimed to determine the effects of a 12-week combin...
Integrating proprioceptive and neuromuscular exercises into the FIFA 11+ Kids program may enhance motor performance and postural stability in youth athletes. This study aimed to determine the effects of a 12-week combined FIFA 11+ Kids and proprioceptive-neuromuscular training program (three sessions/wk) compared with regular standard soccer training on physical and postural performance in young male soccer players aged 12-13 years. Forty players (aged 12.19±0.59 years) were randomly assigned to an experimental group (=20) or control group (=20). Pre- and post-tests included anthropometry, linear sprints (5-10-20 m), vertical jumps (countermovement jump and squat jump), agility, Y-Balance, and stabilometric assessment (eyes open/closed). In the experimental group, body fat showed a non-significant downward trend (-2.93%; =0.081), while leg muscle volume significantly increased (+5.53%; group×time: =0.007; =0.183) alongside fat-free-mass (+2.41%; =0.015). Sprint performance improved significantly at 5 m (5.16%; =0.004; =0.206), 10 m (4.75%; =0.008; =0.270), and 20 m (3.28%; =0.019). Countermovement jump and squat jump also improved (7.63-14.97%; =0.046 and =0.002, respectively). Y-Balance scores and postural stability improved, particularly unipodal mediolateral sway (-35.19%; =0.001; =0.224). Conversely, the control group showed no significant changes across anthropometric, performance, balance, or stabilometric parameters. The combined program effectively enhanced athletic performance, body composition, and postural control, strongly supporting its systematic implementation within youth soccer training programs.
Concurrent Validity and Reliability of an On-Floor 12 m Shuttle Run Test for Young Gymnasts.
Fay L, Rappelt L, Held S … +1 more , Donath L
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42202864 · Publisher ↗
Adequate endurance capacity is crucial for training quality, recovery, and long-term development of gymnasts. The shuttle run test is a valid and efficient field test for estimating aerobic capacity (i.e., maximum oxygen...
Adequate endurance capacity is crucial for training quality, recovery, and long-term development of gymnasts. The shuttle run test is a valid and efficient field test for estimating aerobic capacity (i.e., maximum oxygen uptake) in children and adolescents. Adapted to the indoor restrictions of an artistic gymnastics floor, a feasible 12 m shuttle run test was examined for its validity and absolute and relative reliability. Young gymnasts (= 69; age: 12.3±1.6 y; body mass index: 17.6±2.0 kg*m; training experience: 6.6±2.3 y), competing at trained and highly trained levels in artistic, trampoline, and rhythmic gymnastics, initially performed a laboratory treadmill test and two further 12 m shuttle run tests on a gymnastics floor. Oxygen uptake during laboratory and on-floor testing was assessed until objective exhaustion criteria were reached. The 12 m shuttle run test demonstrated good validity for relative maximal oxygen uptake (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.82 and 95% confidence interval: 0.72-0.88) with moderate limits of agreement (95% confidence interval: -10.7-9.2 mL*kg*min) between the treadmill and the 12 m shuttle run test. The test-retest reliability of the 12 m shuttle run test for relative maximal oxygen uptake was good (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.79, 95% confidence interval: 0.64-0.89). The on-floor 12 m shuttle run test serves as a sufficiently valid and reliable endurance testing tool, enabling the regular assessment with a potential classification of aerobic capacity requirements.
Relationship between energy availability and phenotype in free-living athletes.
Rueda-Córdoba M, Martin-Olmedo JJ, Espinar S … +2 more , Ruiz JR, Jurado-Fasoli L
Int J Sports Med · 2026 May · PMID 42190730 · Publisher ↗
This study aims to explore the impact of energy availability (EA) on body composition, dietary intake, sleep quality, and subjective well-being in free-living Spanish athletes across different sports disciplines. A total...
This study aims to explore the impact of energy availability (EA) on body composition, dietary intake, sleep quality, and subjective well-being in free-living Spanish athletes across different sports disciplines. A total of 75 elite and pre-elite athletes (27 women; 24.9±5.9 years) were included. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, bioimpedance, and anthropometry; diet was assessed using dietary recalls and food-frequency questionnaires; sleep quality was determined by a wrist-worn accelerometer; and subjective well-being was evaluated through validated questionnaires. We observed, counter to common hypothesis, that athletes with low energy availability (LEA) showed higher levels of bone-related markers (i.e., bone mineral content, bone mineral density, and Z-score) compared to those with adequate EA (all P<0.05). Despite higher protein intake, athletes with LEA consumed fewer carbohydrates than those with adequate EA (all P<0.05). No relationship was observed between EA and other body composition parameters, sleep quality, or subjective well-being markers (all P>0.05). Overall, these results suggest that factors like metabolic adaptations, activity patterns, and individual behaviors may influence the relationship between EA and athletic performance in real-world settings. LEA's complexities extend beyond simple nutritional deficiencies, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to managing EA and optimizing athletes' performance and health.
Novel Exercise-based Strategies for Lowering Blood Pressure.
Craighead DH, Runion JK, Killip SW … +1 more , Ruhland OR
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42167335 · Publisher ↗
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide. Above-normal blood pressure is the primary modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and rates of blood pressure control remain suboptimal. Ae...
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide. Above-normal blood pressure is the primary modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and rates of blood pressure control remain suboptimal. Aerobic and resistance exercise are recommended lifestyle interventions for lowering blood pressure; however, adherence to exercise guidelines is low, contributing to poor rates of blood pressure control. Thus, alternative forms of physical activity that lower blood pressure and promote adherence are needed. This review examines isometric exercise, the Weekend Warrior physical activity pattern, and heat therapy as strategies for blood pressure lowering. Randomized controlled trials support isometric exercise for lowering blood pressure; however, the mechanisms of action require further investigation. The Weekend Warrior physical activity pattern, i.e., concentrating physical activity in 1-2 d/wk, is associated with lower rates of hypertension in cohort studies, but clinical trials are lacking. Cohort studies also support that regular sauna use is associated with lower rates of cardiovascular diseases. Small clinical trials also suggest that heat therapy can lower blood pressure; however, study designs are heterogeneous and the results are mixed. Overall, isometric exercise, the Weekend Warrior physical activity pattern, and heat therapy represent potential lifestyle approaches for lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
Effects of Velocity Loss Programming in the Bench Press on Strength Gains and Hypertrophy.
Mariscal Campón G, Asín Izquierdo I, Cornejo Daza PJ … +2 more , Ortega Becerra M, Pareja Blanco F
Int J Sports Med · 2026 May · PMID 42161253 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to compare the effects of two bench press training programs differing in velocity loss modulation (stable vs. progressive) on strength and hypertrophic adaptations. Twenty-four resistance-trained men wer...
This study aimed to compare the effects of two bench press training programs differing in velocity loss modulation (stable vs. progressive) on strength and hypertrophic adaptations. Twenty-four resistance-trained men were randomly assigned to a stable velocity loss group or a progressive velocity loss group. Subjects trained the bench press for 8 weeks, 15 sessions, performing three sets per session at a 65-75% one-repetition maximum. The stable velocity loss group trained with a constant 25% velocity loss, whereas the progressive velocity loss group followed a progressive strategy (0-12.5-25-37.5-50% velocity loss). Assessments conducted before and after training included pectoralis major cross-sectional area, a progressive loading test, and the maximum number of repetitions in bench press. No significant differences in velocity loss between groups were observed during the training program (~26%). A significant main "time" effect was observed for all variables, with no significant group time interactions. Only the progressive velocity loss group obtained significant increases in cross-sectional area (effect size=0.31), while only the stable velocity loss group significantly improved maximal unloaded velocity (effect size=0.80). Both stable and progressive velocity loss programming were effective at improving strength performance in bench press. However, stable velocity loss strategies may be preferable for athletes prioritizing high-velocity performance, whereas progressive velocity loss approaches may be more advantageous for hypertrophy-oriented athletes.
A Practitioner's Guide to Identifying, Assessing, and Managing Gut Issues in Athletes.
Costa RJS, Gaskell SK
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 42155582 · Publisher ↗
Exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms stemming from exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome are a common feature of sports participation. Exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms have the potential to dir...
Exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms stemming from exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome are a common feature of sports participation. Exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms have the potential to directly impair sports performance or could indicate something more sinister warranting medical attention. Managing the underlying pathophysiological pathways of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome is key to reducing exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms in athletes during their sporting activities. Recent advancements in exercise gastroenterology have enhanced the understanding of pathophysiology, assessment methodologies, prevention and management strategies. The current narrative review aims to provide a professional practice guide for the identification, assessment, intervention, and monitoring of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome and exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms. A referral pathway and a four-phase approach to athlete support have been proposed. The athlete support pathway components include initial clinical assessment, gastrointestinal assessment during exercise, implementation of evidenced-informed prevention or management strategies based on the gastrointestinal assessment during exercise data interpretation, and ongoing monitoring and adjustment in real-world settings. This structured approach has been shown to reduce exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms and potentially mitigate underlying medical risks arising from exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome.
Sensitivity of Load-velocity Relationship Variables to a Resistance Training Mesocycle.
Chen Z, García-Ramos A, Huang Z … +3 more , Li Z, Zhang X, Miras-Moreno S
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42155487 · Publisher ↗
This study examined whether load-velocity relationship variables are sensitive indicators of maximal dynamic strength changes across introductory, overload, and taper microcycles. Twenty resistance-trained men completed...
This study examined whether load-velocity relationship variables are sensitive indicators of maximal dynamic strength changes across introductory, overload, and taper microcycles. Twenty resistance-trained men completed a 3-week back squat and bench press program. One-repetition maximum and the two-point load-velocity relationship (20 kg and ~85% one-repetition maximum) were assessed before the introductory microcycle and after each microcycle. The results showed that (i) one-repetition maximum, area under the load-velocity relationship line ( ), and velocity-axis intercept ( ) derived from peak velocity generally increased after the taper microcycle compared to earlier post-microcycle assessments (≤0.046, differences=2.3-7.8%); (ii) the overload (coefficient of variation of individual response=5.1%) and taper (3.8%) microcycles exhibited greater variability compared with the introductory microcycle (2.0%). Among the monitored variables, variability was lowest for (0%), followed by one-repetition maximum and (4.1%), and highest for (5.3%); and (iii) derived from mean velocity was the only variable that maintained a significant association with changes in one-repetition maximum across exercises and microcycles (=0.648-0.765, ≤0.003). These findings indicate that while short mesocycles elicit substantial inter-individual variability in adaptations, derived from mean velocity offers a practical, fatigue-free method to monitor meaningful maximal strength changes throughout a training cycle.
Flexibility-enhancing Interventions for Ankle Range of Motion: A Network Meta-analysis.
Park JM, Lee KW, Yoon SY … +2 more , Kim YW, Lee SC
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42134336 · Publisher ↗
This systematic review and network meta-analysis compared the effectiveness of five flexibility-enhancing interventions-static stretching, dynamic stretching, ballistic stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitati...
This systematic review and network meta-analysis compared the effectiveness of five flexibility-enhancing interventions-static stretching, dynamic stretching, ballistic stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, and foam rolling-on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in physically active healthy adults. A comprehensive search of multiple databases was conducted up to August 4, 2025. This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines and was registered in prospectively registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Effect sizes were synthesized using a random-effects network meta-analysis, and intervention rankings were based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve. Forty-one randomized controlled trials (=1,670) were included. For the passive range of motion, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (surface under the cumulative ranking curve: 76.8%) and foam rolling (67.8%) were the most effective overall. In long-term protocols (>1 mo), both proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (standardized mean difference 1.04 [0.64-1.44]) and foam rolling (standardized mean difference 1.03 [0.53-1.53]) remained superior to controls. For active range of motion, foam rolling ranked the highest (surface under the cumulative ranking curve: 87.2%) and demonstrated the largest short-term improvement, while static stretching showed the most favorable long-term maintenance (surface under the cumulative ranking curve: 72.4%). No intervention-related adverse events were reported. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and foam rolling are optimal for long-term flexibility enhancement, whereas foam rolling is recommended for short-term, pre-exercise movement preparation. Static stretching may support sustained active range of motion across extended training periods. Intervention selection should align with specific performance goals and training timelines.
Coronal Plane Alignment Abnormalities in Medial/Lateral Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus.
Cao Y, Guo C, Xu Y … +5 more , Huang Q, Yang C, Hong Y, Zhu Y, Xu X
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 42128369 · Publisher ↗
Clarifying whether osteochondral lesions of the talus are associated with coronal plane ankle and hindfoot alignment abnormalities is critical for guiding surgical decisions such as supramalleolar or calcaneal osteotomy....
Clarifying whether osteochondral lesions of the talus are associated with coronal plane ankle and hindfoot alignment abnormalities is critical for guiding surgical decisions such as supramalleolar or calcaneal osteotomy. This retrospective case series included 142 consecutive patients with osteochondral lesions treated between August 2014 and April 2019, with 111 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were enrolled finally. Patient data were carefully extracted and cross-checked, and the lesion location was determined via computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, grouping patients into 91 medial and 20 lateral cases. Standard weight-bearing radiographs were used to measure the tibial anterior surface angle, tibial axis-medial malleolus angle, tibio-talar angle, tibial lateral surface angle, hindfoot alignment angle, and lesion area. Inter-rater reliability assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (≥ 0.85) showed excellent agreement. The medial group had a significantly older mean age (48.32 vs. 30.25 y, < 0.01), greater hindfoot varus, larger tibial axis-medial malleolus angle, and smaller lesion area ( < 0.05), while no significant differences were found in the tibial anterior surface angle, tibio-talar angle, or tibial lateral surface angle. These findings indicate that medial osteochondral lesions of the talus correlate with hindfoot varus, emphasizing the need to assess and adjust alignment during clinical treatment.
Jump Performance following Foot Muscle Training: Influence of Barefoot versus Shod Exercise.
Koyama K, Hosono S
Int J Sports Med · 2026 May · PMID 42114703 · Publisher ↗
Foot muscle strength influences jumping performance, but adaptation differences between barefoot and shod training remain unclear. This study compared the effects of an 8-week training program performed barefoot (BARE),...
Foot muscle strength influences jumping performance, but adaptation differences between barefoot and shod training remain unclear. This study compared the effects of an 8-week training program performed barefoot (BARE), shod (SHOD), or without training (CON). Healthy habitually SHOD non-athlete adults (age: 39.0±10.6 y; height: 1.61±0.08 m; body mass: 61.5±9.8 kg) were assigned to BARE (=19), SHOD (=17), or CON (=17) groups. Participants in the training groups performed 60-minute sessions twice weekly. Toe flexor strength, foot arch height, and jump performance were assessed at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. In the BARE group, toe flexor strength increased by 8.3% at week 2 (≤0.05) and continued to improve through weeks 4-8 (≤0.01, effect size=1.17), whereas gains in the SHOD group appeared at week 4 and were limited to baseline comparisons. Vertical jump height improved similarly across groups, whereas standing broad jump distance improved in the BARE group after 8 weeks (≤0.01) and was greater than that in the CON group (≤0.01, effect size=1.12). These findings suggest that identical barefoot training induces earlier and progressive improvements in foot muscle strength and may contribute to improved forward jump performance.
Vastus Lateralis Muscle Fiber Conduction Velocity During Heavy and Severe Cycling Exercise.
Dell'Anna S, Martins Vieira T, Gomes Bernardes A … +6 more , Liberali G, Azzali G, Ivaniski-Mello A, Andrade Machado F, Baldari C, Buzzachera CF
Int J Sports Med · 2026 Apr · PMID 42025187 · Publisher ↗
High-density surface electromyography has recently emerged as a tool to investigate neuromuscular function across different motor tasks. Muscle fiber conduction velocity, a biophysical marker estimated from high-density...
High-density surface electromyography has recently emerged as a tool to investigate neuromuscular function across different motor tasks. Muscle fiber conduction velocity, a biophysical marker estimated from high-density surface electromyography signals, quantifies the speed of action potential propagation along muscle fibers. Currently, little information is available on the responses of muscle fiber conduction velocity during dynamic exercise. We therefore explored how cycling within two distinct exercise-intensity domains (heavy and severe) elicited substantial changes in vastus lateralis muscle fiber conduction velocity. Furthermore, we compared muscle fiber conduction velocity with averaged rectified values obtained from the same high-density surface electromyography signals, and we tested differences in their respective intra-individual variability. In the severe-intensity domain, muscle fiber conduction velocity decreased from 4.44±0.22 to 4.03±0.22 m∙s, whereas in the heavy-intensity domain, it increased from 4.56±0.33 to 5.02±0.42 m∙s (<0.001). Although both muscle fiber conduction velocity and averaged rectified values changed significantly over time, indicating the myoelectric manifestation of fatigue in the severe domain, muscle fiber conduction velocity showed less variability within single time points. These findings suggest that muscle fiber conduction velocity is a more robust indicator of myoelectric fatigue than averaged rectified values, even in highly dynamic contractions like cycling.
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