THE RELATIONSHIP OF QUADRICEPS POWER AND PHYSICAL FUNCTIONING IN
OLDER ADULTS
Samuel A. Gagnon, Michelle R. Villa, Dain P. LaRoche, FACSM and Summer B. Cook, FACSM
University of New Hampshire
Older adults experience declines in muscle mass and strength and can lead to the development of
mobility limitations. Power also plays a role in mobility issues, as the strength to perform a
movement is useless, if the movement cannot be performed at a functional velocity. PURPOSE:
The purpose of the study was to determine if quadriceps power at 60, 180, or 300°•sec-1 was related
to chair rise time and Long Distance Corridor Walk (LDCW) speed. METHODS: Eight male and 15
female community-dwelling older adults (age 76.3 ± 8.0 yrs; BMI 25.47 ± 3.16 kg•m-2) at risk of
mobility limitations (classified by strength-to-weight ratio <1.71 Nm•kg-1 in males, <1.34 Nm•kg-1 in
females) performed unilateral knee extension on an isokinetic dynamometer at 60, 180, and 300°•sec1
and the torque generated was multiplied by the angular velocity to determine power. Subjects
performed the LDCW by walking 10 laps of a 20 m course (400 m total) at the fastest pace they were
able to maintain. Chair rise time was found by standing unassisted from a chair 5 times as fast as
possible. The relationship between variables was found via Pearson correlations. RESULTS: Power
at all knee extension angular velocities were related to LDCW speed. This relationship was strongest
at 300°•sec-1 (r = 0.63, P<0.01), but was also significant at 180°•sec-1 (r = 0.57, P<0.01) and 60°•sec-1
(r = 0.47, P<0.05). The relationship between power and chair rise time was not significant.
CONCLUSION: Knee extension power at 300°•sec-1 was most related to walking speed. Chair rise
power was not significantly related to knee extension power. Knee extension power should be
measured at high velocities when screening older adults for risk of mobility limitations.
Supported by: NIH Grant 1R15 A6040700-01A1
THE EFFECTS OF BLOOD-FLOW RESTRICTED RESISTANCE TRAINING ON MUSCLE SIZE AND STRENGTH IN
OLDER ADULTS
Jesse C. Schwartz1, Hannah M. Barile, Dain P. LaRoche, FASCM, and Summer B. Cook, FACSM
University of New Hampshire, Durham
Low-load resistance training (20-50% maximal load) using a blood flow-restriction exercise (BFR) increases
muscle mass and strength of the lower limbs. However, the effect of BFR in older adults remains
undetermined. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare strength and muscle size of the
quadriceps following 12 weeks of blood flow-restricted resistance exercise. METHODS: Fourteen community
dwelling elderly adults were randomly assigned to one of two groups: BFR (75+6.7 yrs.; height 172±2 cm;
weight 77.1+16.1 kg; BMI 25.9+2.8 kg•m-2) and control (age 76.4+9.9 yrs.; height 169±9.6 cm; weight
70.4±14.5 kg; BMI 24.4±3.6 kg•m-2). Both groups had muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and estimated 1
repetition maximum (1-RM) measured through leg curl (LC), leg extension (LE), and leg press (LP) exercises at
baseline, followed by 12-weeks of specified training. CSA of the quadriceps muscles were measured using
magnetic resonance imaging, analyzed through Image J, and 1-RM was estimated via 10 RM testing on LC, LE,
and LP. BFR training subjects performed 3 sets of LC, LE, and LP 2 times per week for 12 weeks until volitional
fatigue. Compressive cuffs around the thigh were inflated during training to 1.5 times systolic blood pressure.
The control subjects did 3 sets of seated upper body stretching and light resistance exercises, 2 times per
week for 12 weeks. RESULTS: Overall, LE 1-RM and CSA of quadriceps were significantly different (P<.05)
following 12 weeks of BFR. Although there was no significant difference found, LC and LP still increased. The
percent increase for BFR and control group respectively are: 16.2% (P=0.01) and -3.7% (P=0.07) for LE, 14.1%
(P=0.15) and 2.6% (P=0.25) for LC, 6.5% (P=0.03) and 0.7% (P=0.02) for CSA, and 17.7% (P=0.14) and 4.3%
(P=0.19). CONCLUSION: BFR exercise improved CSA and muscle strength following 12 weeks of BFR exercise.
These results suggest that BFR exercise can be utilized for older adults who may not be able to with
traditional strength training.
Supported by: NIH Grant 1R15A6040700-01A1
SALIVARY LYMPHOCYTE RESPONSES FOLLOWING AN ACUTE BOUT OF
ANAEROBIC EXERCISE IN WARM VS COOL ENVIRONMENTS
Kaylee LeCavalier, Michael Lawrence, and Lara A. Carlson, FACSM
University of New England
Exercise induces transient changes in cells of the immune system and possible implications in
immune function. To date, no study has measured differential leukocytes in saliva following exercise.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of acute anaerobic training on
salivary lymphocytes, and further determine whether these responses differ between warm and cool
environments. METHODS: Nine lightly clothed (~0.3 clo) and not cold acclimatized volunteers (7/2
women/men: age 21 ± 1 y; height 168.7 ± 7.3 cm; weight 66.4 ± 8.4 kg; body fat 20.6 ± 7.6%)
completed speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) sessions in both warm (18.9°C, 41% relative
humidity, 4.5 m/s wind speed, Biddeford, Maine, USA) and cool (10.4°C, 62% relative humidity, 0.6
m/s wind speed, Thorsmörk, Iceland) ambient temperatures. Subjects performed SAQ sessions,
consisting of three trials of 20 m sprints, 40 m sprints, t-tests, and box drills, and two 300-yd shuttle
runs in both environmental conditions. All trials were followed by a 1 min rest period, with exception
of the shuttle run, which had a 3 min rest period. Blood samples, and unstimulated saliva via a
passive drool, were collected at baseline, immediately postexercise, and after 2 h of recovery.
Lymphocytes were separated using density gradient (Ficol) centrifugation, stained with Wrights
stain, and counted four times (AboGen, Portland, ME). A 2 × 3 (condition by time) repeatedmeasures ANOVA was used to determine significant changes in the dependent variables. Post hoc
analyses were accomplished using paired contrasts with a Bonferroni correction. RESULTS:
Immediately postexercise, plasma lactate values were elevated (p<0.05) above preexercise values.
Lymphocytes increased (p<0.05) immediately postexercise, followed by a decrease (p<0.05) below
baseline values after 2 h of recovery in both the warm and cool environments (Table 1). Lymphocyte
counts were lower (p<0.05) for the cool environment than for the warm environment.
CONCLUSION: Salivary lymphocyte counts increased following an acute bout of anaerobic
exercise, followed by a decrease after 2 h of recovery in both warm and cool environments. An acute
bout of anaerobic exercise induced transient changes in salivary lymphocyte counts similar to what is
observed in peripheral blood.
Table 1: Lymphocyte Responses (109/L) After Acute Anaerobic Exercise In Warm and Cool
Environments (n = 9), M ± SD
Condition
Baseline
Post-Exercise
2 h Post-Exercise
Warm
0.041 ± 0.004
0.078 ± 0.006
0.031 ± 0.004
Cool*
0.040 ± 0.003
0.072 ± 0.008
0.027 ± 0.004
*Significantly (p< 0.05) different than warm
Supported by: NEACSM Undergraduate Research Experience Grant, AboGen Inc., and the
Westbrook College of Health Professions Undergraduate Summer Research Stipend
EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BODY COMPOSITION AND SOCIAL
PHYSIQUE ANXIETY
Brianna Liquori1, Sean Walsh1, Kimberly Kostelis1
1
Central Connecticut State University
With increasing obesity rates, the need to understand the relationship between body composition and
psychological factors such as social physique anxiety has also increased. PURPOSE: The purpose of
this study was to determine if any relationships existed between body composition and social
physique anxiety levels in a college aged population. METHODS: Subjects were recruited from an
introductory college level fitness and wellness course. Thirty-one males (age 18.8 ±1.1 yrs; BMI
23.8±3.7 kg m-2) and nineteen females (age 18.6± 0.7 yrs; BMI 22.7±3.0 kg m-2) completed body
composition assessments via the skinfold method utilizing the Jackson Pollock three site method to
determine body fat percentage. Measurements for males were obtained from the chest, abdomen, and
thigh, while measurements for the females were taken from the thigh, triceps, and suprailium.
Subjects also completed the Social Physique Anxiety Questionnaire, a 12 item questionnaire asking
subjects to rank themselves on a scale of 1 to 5. A correlation analysis was utilized to assess
associations between body composition and social physique anxiety. Significance was set at p < .05.
Data are presented as means ±SD. RESULTS: Overall, we observed a direct correlation between
body composition and social physique anxiety scores. A significant relationship was observed
between skinfold measurements and social physique anxiety, r=.536, p>.01, whereby higher levels of
body composition were associated with higher social physique anxiety scores. Similarly a significant
relationship was also observed between social physique anxiety and BMI, r=.360, p<.05. When
examining skinfold measurements, along with BMI as it relates to social physique anxiety, a
significant relationship was found among male subjects only (r=.613, p<.05; r=.451, p<.05). No
significant relationships were found among female subjects (r=.268, p>.05; r=.318, p>.05).
CONCLUSION: Overall, higher body composition scores and BMI’s were associated with higher
levels of social physique anxiety in males but not females. As obesity rates continue to increase, it is
important to recognize the impact this may have on mental health, regarding an individual’s social
physique anxiety, which in turn may have a negative impact on the overall health of college aged
students.
Supported by: NEACSM Undergraduate Research Experience Grant
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SLEEP, BURN OUT, AND PERFORMANCE IN COLLEGIATE
FEMALE RUNNERS.
David Sanders1, Disa Hatfield1, Justin Nicoll1, Kathleen Melanson2, Christopher Nasin3 and Deborah Riebe,
FACSM1.
1
Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology. 2Department of Nutrition. 3Health Services.
University of Rhode Island. Kingston, RI 02881
Overtraining (OT) frequently occurs in collegiate athletes. Currently, energy imbalance is considered the
primary mechanisms responsible for OT. However, there is little research concerning potential early OT
identifiers that coaches and athletes can easily monitor, such as sleep habits and daily fluctuations in fatigue.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship between fatigue, sleep, perception of
burn-out, and performance change over a track season in female collegiate runners. METHODS: Sixteen
female track and field mid and long distance runners (age: 20.34 ± 1.47 yrs; height: 165.17 ± 6.08 cm; body
mass: 57.06 ± 5.44 kg; VO2MAX: 58.24 ± 5.92 ml/kg/min) participated in a 14-week descriptive study. Sleep
(latency, quality, disturbance, daytime dysfunction), burn-out (reduced accomplishment, emotional/physical
exhaustion, devaluation), and fatigue surveys were measured pre-, mid-, and end of-season. Percent change in
race time (season best vs. championship performance) was calculated and Spearman rank order correlations
were run to assess possible relationships among the variables. Significance was set at p≤ 0.05. RESULTS:
There were significant correlations between sleep latency and burn-out exhaustion pre- and mid-season (r=
0.555 and r= 0.558), sleep latency and performance mid-season (r=-.729), and sleep related daytime
dysfunction and all characteristics of burn-out end of-season (reduced accomplishment: r= 0.574;
devaluement: r= 0.666; and exhaustion: r= 0.672). CONCLUSION: Monitoring sleep patterns and burn-out
during a competitive season may be of use to coaches in order to maintain athlete performance. In particular,
improving sleep habits in order to reduce daytime dysfunction and related perception of burn-out should be
considered if OT is a concern. Coaches may also consider altering their teams’ training regimens or suggesting
other tactics such as improving time management to ensure their athletes have adequate time to sleep.
THE ANXIOLYTIC EFFECTS OF ACUTE MINDFULNESS PRACTICE AND AEROBIC
EXERCISE IN ANXIOUS COLLEGE FEMALES
Alyssa L. Guastella1, Deborah Riebe, FACSM1, Colleen A. Redding2, Bryan J. Blissmer1
1
Department of Kinesiology, 2Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island
Anxiety, a prevalent condition in the U.S., is associated with high comorbidity and reduced quality of
life. Alternative treatment methods, including exercise(EX) and mindfulness practice(MP), have
independently been shown to be as effective as traditional clinical treatments such as Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy or pharmaceuticals. This work has been limited by the focus on clinical
populations and the use of study designs that could not examine additive treatment effects.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to supplement the limited research investigating the
efficacy of these disseminable, inexpensive alternative methods of anxiety management in a
nonclinical anxious population. METHODS: Fifty-six(N=56) anxious females(age=19.3±1.5yrs)
were recruited from a university population and randomized into one of four conditions in a 2x2
design: EX+MP, noEX+MP, EX+distraction video(noMP), and noEX+noMP. The EX groups
engaged in moderate-intensity cycling for 20 minutes (60-69%HRmax), and the MP groups listened
to a recording that lead participants through a mindfulness practice. Anxiety was measured using the
STAI-Y at baseline, and again 5, 10, and 20 minutes post-task. A 2x2 repeated-measures ANOVA
tested group effects on anxiety at each timepoint. Statistical significance was set at P≤.05.
RESULTS: There were no interaction effects, but there were significant main effects of MP, EX,
and time on anxiety(P<.05). The MP groups had significantly lower anxiety than the noMP groups
both immediately after the task (30.14±7.05 vs.35.07±9.77,P<.001), and 5 min post-task (30.12±7.55
vs.34.29±9.94,P<.05). The EX groups had significantly higher anxiety (35.17±9.58) scores than the
noEX groups (29.65±6.86,P<.05) immediately after the task. Though not significant, anxiety was
lower in the EX groups than the noEX groups by 20 minutes post-task. CONCLUSION: Overall,
MP had the largest and most immediate anxiolytic effect. It is unclear why anxiety was higher in the
EX groups immediately after exercise, but given the present findings, measures of anxiety should be
taken after 20 minutes. These results suggest that within an acute session of mindfulness training
anxious women can achieve some relief from their symptoms. Future studies should investigate
exercise and mindfulness interventions over longer timeframes, with more diverse groups, to further
explicate the dynamics of these disseminable population-based anxiety management strategies.
THE INFLUENCE OF CONCURRENT EXERCISE TRAINING ON BLOOD PRESSURE: A
META-ANALYSIS
Lauren M. Lamberti1, Hayley V. MacDonald1, Adam Blanchard1, Blair T. Johnson1, Linda S.
Pescatello, FACSM1
1
University of Connecticut Storrs, Connecticut
Aerobic exercise (AET) training, and to a lesser degree resistance (RT) training, are recommended to
lower blood pressure (BP) among adults with hypertension. However, the influence of AET and RT
combined termed, concurrent exercise (CET) training, on resting BP remains unclear. PURPOSE:
To investigate the efficacy of CET as antihypertensive therapy and identify moderators of the BP
response to CET. METHODS: Electronic databases were searched for trials that included: adults
(≥19yr); controlled CET interventions; and BP pre- and post-CET. Study quality was assessed with a
modified Downs and Black checklist. All analyses followed random-effects assumptions.
RESULTS: 64 trials evaluated 72 interventions. Subjects (n=3871) were middle-aged (55.6±14.7yr),
overweight (28.0±3.6 kg·m-2) adults with prehypertension [systolic BP/diastolic BP
133±9.9/80.2±7.2mmHg]. CET was performed at moderate intensity (AET: 55% maximal oxygen
consumption; RT: 60% one repetition maximum), 2.9±0.8 d·wk-1 for 36.2±15.3 minutes∙session-1 for
20.1±18.2 weeks. Overall, CET reduced BP (d+=-0.25; -2.5mmHg/ d+=-0.26; -1.9mmHg, ps<0.01)
compared to control. Among CET samples only, BP was reduced to the greatest extent among
samples with hypertension (-4.3/-4.6mmHg, k=20) and prehypertension (-3.0/-3.1mmHg, k=41)
(p<0.01) than normal BP (-1.3/-1.5mmHg; k=8)(p≤0.04). The greatest BP lowering effects were
observed among higher (-3.9/-3.0mmHg; k=5) versus lower (-1.9/-1.7mmg; k=12) quality trials
(p=0.01). CONCLUSION: On average, CET lowered BP 2-3 mmHg, with larger reductions
observed for samples with hypertension (~4-5 mmHg) and higher quality trials (~3-4 mmHg).
However, due to the general low quality of this literature, additional well-designed, randomized,
controlled trials to evaluate the antihypertensive effects of CET are warranted.
Supported by: University of Connecticut Center for Health, Intervention and Prevention.
EFFECT OF A 10-WEEK BAREFOOT RUNNING INTERVENTION ON RACE PERFORMANCE
IN HABITUALLY SHOD RUNNERS
Aliaksandr N. Leuchanka, Neil J. Baroody, Summer B. Cook, FACSM, Timothy J. Quinn, FACSM
University of New Hampshire
Barefoot (BF) running has developed into a recent training technique for elite and sub-elite endurance runners
that may improve race performance by allowing for an enhancement of the foot and lower-leg musculature
leading to improved running biomechanics. In spite of the many anecdotal statements suggesting the benefits
of BF running, it is rarely seen in competitive performances. There has been limited research evaluating a
systematic training program designed to teach this skill and its influence on race performance. PURPOSE: To
determine if the use of a 10-week systematic BF running training program would result in an improved race
performance. METHODS: Nine subjects (2 females) (29.8±6.1 yrs; 172.0±7.6 cm; 64.5±8.8 kg) reported to
the laboratory four times. On Day 1, informed consent was completed and subject characteristics were
determined including height, body mass, and body composition followed by a VO2max test in the shod
condition. Four to seven days later (Day 2), subjects underwent a 5 km time trial in the shod condition.
Following pre-testing, subjects underwent a 10-week systematic BF running program that began with a total of
12 min of BF running at week 1 and progressed to 140 min at week 10. After 10-weeks of BF running, Days 1
and 2 were repeated in the BF condition. VO2, VE, HR, RPE and performance (5 km race time) were the
dependent variables of this study. RESULTS: A repeated measures ANOVA showed that overall 5 km race
performance time improved 3.1% (p<0.05) in the post-BF condition when compared to the pre-shod condition.
Mile splits 2 and 3 were significantly faster by 3.2% (p<0.05) and 4.6% (p<0.05), respectively in the post-BF
condition. RPE measures at miles 2 and 3 were significantly lower in the post-BF condition. Measures of VO2,
VE, HR showed no significant changes from pre-shod to post-BF conditions (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A
10-week BF running intervention resulted in an improved 5 km race performance, despite no changes in VO2,
VE, HR. Henceforth, other variables such as BF running biomechanics may be the factor responsible for the
increased 5 km race performance.
COMBINED EXERCISE, DEHYDRATION, AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEAT STRESS
INCREASE LIPID PEROXIDATION AND DNA DAMAGE
Colleen X. Muñoz, Amy L. McKenzie, Jenna M. Apicella, Laura J. Kunces, Brent C. Creighton, Carl M.
Maresh FACSM, Elaine C. Lee
University of Connecticut, Human Performance Laboratory, Storrs, CT, USA
Our ongoing work has demonstrated that both systemic and cellular stress responses occur during exerciseenvironmental heat stress exposure. Recently we have begun to characterize the stress-induced damage that
might stimulate protective responses during stress. Oxidative stress results from increased production of
damaging reactive oxygen species relative to protective antioxidant responses and likely induces cellular and
tissue-level damage at multiple levels. This damage may be at both the protein and nucleic acid levels, which
both have critical impact on cellular and tissue health. PURPOSE: Thus, the purpose of this investigation is to
for the first time, quantify the effect of combined exercise, dehydration, and environmental heat/humidity
stress on both circulating and cellular markers of lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and lipid-peroxidation
induced DNA damage. METHODS: Healthy male (n=30) subjects completed an overnight (16h) fluid
deprivation (body mass = -2.0±0.9%) before completing 2h of cycling (38°C, 40%RH; total body mass = 4.2±0.9%; heart rate =146±2 bpm heart rate; rectal temperature = 38.1±0.7° C). Subjects then returned 24h
later after rehydration (body mass = -0.3±0.8%). From serial whole blood samples (10mL), we froze (-80C)
blood serum and plasma, and isolated (gradient based separation) and either cryopreserved (~10% DMSO) or
snap froze (N2(l)) peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We have measured circulating plasma 8hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as markers of non-tissue specific lipid
peroxidation and DNA damage, via ELISA. RESULTS: Overnight fluid deprivation alone did not result in
measurable increases in either circulating 8-OHdG or MDA from baseline (8-OHdG (ng∙mL-1), MDA (ng∙mL1
); 1.10±0.43, 0.15±0.04), suggesting that a passive mild dehydration stress does not cause significant lipid
peroxidation and DNA damage. However, after an additional 2h of exercise, dehydration, and environmental
stress, circulating levels of both 8-OHdG and MDA were elevated (8-OHdG (ng∙mL-1), MDA (ng∙mL-1);
1.27±0.42, 0.17±0.04), each by ~15% from baseline resting values (p<0.05). After 24h of recovery, levels of
both oxidative stress-induced damage had returned close to baseline levels (8-OHdG (ng∙mL-1), MDA (ng∙mL1
); 1.15±0.43, 0.15±0.04, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Exercise, dehydration, and environmental stress increase
circulating markers of lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. Ongoing analyses will fully characterize both
systemic and cellular markers of DNA damage.
FUNDING:
TFASESR, The Foundation for Aging Studies and Exercise Science Research, PI: Elaine C. Lee
Internal Funding, University of Connecticut, PI: Elaine C. Lee
EFFECTS OF AN IN-CENTER RESISTANCE TRAINING PROGRAM ON FUNCTIONAL
MEASURES, STRENGTH, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN END STAGE RENAL DISEASE
Michael Bruneau Jr.1, Jennifer Mckinnon1, Michael Germain2, Tracey Matthews1, Thomas Dodge1,
Paul Dalton1, Amanda LaCroix1, Shelby Van Huysen1, and Samuel Headley, FACSM1
1
Springfield College, 2Western New England Renal & Transplant Associates
PURPOSE: End-stage renal disease (ESRD), defined as a glomerular filtration rate <15 mL∙ min-1 or
on dialysis for ≥ 3 months, is a major public health issue in the United States. Over 871,000
Americans receive treatment for ESRD, most of whom are sedentary and frail. Resistance exercise is
highly recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) to improve physical
functioning among those with ESRD. The ACSM’s current prescription for resistance exercise
includes 8 to 10 exercises performed for 1 set at 10-15 repetitions on non-dialysis days. The purpose
of this study was therefore to determine the effect of an in-center resistance-training program on
functional measures, strength, and quality of life among those with ESRD. METHODS: Twenty
patients with ESRD from Fresenius Medical Care Centers in Western Massachusetts were
randomized to exercise (N=12) or control (N=8). Patients randomized to exercise received in-center
resistance exercise in accordance with ACSM recommendations before and during treatment, 3 days
per week for 8 weeks. Patients randomized to control received usual care and no exercise. Functional
measures and measures of physical strength were assessed at baseline, at 4-weeks, and at 8-weeks
with The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Manual Muscle Testing (MMT),
respectively. Quality of life was measured at baseline and 8-weeks with The Short Form (36) Health
Survey (SF-36). Mixed factorial ANOVAs were used to determine the effect of resistance exercise on
quality of life, functional and strength measures. RESULTS: Subjects included men (N=11) and
women (N=9), who were middle-aged (57.5±13.3 yr) and obese (body mass index [BMI]: 32.7±8.5
kg·m-2). For SPPB, significant time effects were found for chair score (P=.001) and total SPPB score
(P=.008). A significant interaction was also found for the 4-meter gait speed test (P=.026). For MMT
results, significant interactions were found for the following: right (P=.006) & left (P=.008) calf,
right quadriceps (P=.003), right (P=.005) & left (P=.004) hamstrings, and right adductor (P=.020).
MMT values increased for the exercise but not the control group over time. For the SF-36 physical
performance scores, values were significantly higher across time (P=.023). CONCLUSION: An
8-week in-center resistance-training program had beneficial effects on functional and strength
measures, and quality of life among those with ESRD. Future research efforts should seek to replicate
our findings in larger samples of men and women with ESRD and to elucidate the influence of
in-center resistance exercise on other biological variables that are associated with ESRD.
ACTIVITY MONITOR LOCATION AFFECTS THE ESTIMATION OF TIME SPENT IN
DIFFERENT INTENSITIES OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Amanda Hickey1, Albert Mendoza1, Patty S. Freedson, FACSM1
1
University of Massachusetts Amherst
The current NHANES protocol estimates physical activity (PA) exposure using a wrist-worn ActiGraph (AG)
monitor. However, all published algorithms to process AG data have been developed/validated using hip-worn
monitors. The AG software provides an option to employ a count specific correction factor to scale the count
data from wrist-worn monitors and then process using desired cut-points. Currently, it is unclear whether this
scaling method produces similar estimates of time spent in different PA intensity categories for hip and wrist
monitors. PURPOSE: To determine if there are differences in estimates of time spent in sedentary, light, and
moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between hip and wrist-worn monitors. METHODS: 19
participants (age = 25.8+4.84) wore an AG GT3X+ on the right hip and non-dominant wrist for 3-days.
During this period participants were asked to refrain from structured exercise (MVPA for >10-minute bouts).
Minutes spent in each of the intensity categories (sedentary, light, moderate-to-vigorous) and also minutes
spent in bouts >10 minutes of continuous MVPA (MVPA in Bouts) were determined using Freedson Adult
1998 cut-points available in the ActiLife software. The “worn on the wrist” option was employed for the wrist
data. Linear models were used to determine if minutes spent in each intensity category differed between the
hip and wrist. RESULTS: Data are presented as MEAN (SD).
Hip
Wrist
Sedentary (minutes)
742.4 (68.37)
578.2 (61.10)*
Light (minutes)
63.7 (136.73)
136.7 (29.10)*
MVPA (minutes)
38.3 (13.49)
129.5 (36.33)*
MVPA in Bouts (minutes)
4.2 (6.16)
6.7 (7.53)
Notes: *Wrist estimates significantly different than hip
CONCLUSION: These data suggest that monitor location substantially affects estimates of time spent in
sedentary, light, and MVPA. However, both monitors indicated participants were compliant to the protocol as
the average MVPA in bouts was < 10 minutes across participants and was not different between monitor
locations. Despite this, these findings suggest a cut-point algorithm for wrist-worn monitor data needs to be
developed/validated. Other significant implications include: 1) Studies estimating PA using different monitor
locations may not be comparable and 2) Participants’ PA levels and/or health-PA behavior relationships
established from monitors may differ depending on the location used.
COACH-LED INJURY PREVENTION PROGRAM IMPROVES LANDING TECHNIQUE IN
YOUTH SOCCER ATHLETES
J. Luke Pryor1, Hayley J. Root1, Jessica C. Martinez1, Lesly W. Vandermark, Riana R. Pryor,
Thomas H. Trojian1, Craig R. Denegar1, Lindsay J. DiStefano1
1
University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Long-term implementation of injury prevention programs (IPP) in youth sport requires coach
involvement, however, the optimal training for coaches to effectively implement an IPP remains
unknown. It is also unknown if the benefits of IPP (e.g., changing neuromuscular control injury risk
factors such as movement technique) can be enhanced with multiple seasons of exposure.
PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of prior IPP exposure on movement technique in youth
soccer athletes after completing a coach-led IPP. METHODS: Twelve youth soccer teams (n=89;
age range 8-14 y) were divided into groups with (Experience (EXP); 6 teams [n=18 females, n=25
males]) and without (Novice (NOV); 6 teams [n=30 females, n=16 males]) previous IPP
experience. The coaches of the EXP teams were exposed to an eight-week researcher-led IPP
before being trained by the researchers to implement the coach-led IPP. The NOV coaches only
received training immediately before implementing the coach-led IPP to their teams. Movement
technique was evaluated using a validated clinical movement analysis tool, the Landing Error
Scoring System (LESS), during a jump-landing before and after the intervention. A high score on
the LESS indicates a high number of movement errors, and thus poor movement technique.
Repeated measures analyses of covariance evaluated composite LESS scores between groups
before and after the season controlling for gender. Binomial proportion and chi-squared tests
evaluated changes in individual movement errors and injury risk classification, respectively.
RESULTS: Both groups improved their LESS score over time (mean difference [post-pre]= 0.8±0.2, 95%CI [-1.2,-0.4], p=0.0001). Of the 64 subjects identified as being at high risk for injury
(LESS score≥5) at pre-testing, 59% (38/64) improved their LESS score (post-pre=2.3±1.2, 95% CI
[1.9,2.6]), but only 33% (21/64) of these subjects improved risk classification (χ² [1, n=89]=7.2,
p=0.009). Narrow stance width, medial knee displacement, and joint displacement errors improved
the least after the IPP (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that coaches can
effectively implement an exercise-based IPP after attending a training workshop regardless of
previous IPP experience. Future research should evaluate the longitudinal effects of an IPP and
strategies to correct the movement errors that appear difficult to change.
Supported by: University of Connecticut small faculty grant
COMPARISON OF THE CLINICAL DETERMINANTS OF THE BLOOD PRESSURE
RESPONSE FOLLOWING TWO DIFFERENT EXERCISE MODALITIES
Garrett I. Ash1, Beth A. Taylor2, Paulo Farinatti1,3, William J. Kraemer, FACSM1, Ming-Hui Chen1,
Jeffrey A. Capizzi2, Ved Deshpande1, Ji Yeon Jung1, Lauren Lamberti1, Spencer Lau1, Hayley V.
MacDonald1, Emily Moker1, Gregory A. Panza2, Amanda L. Zaleski2, Kevin D. Ballard2,
Mohammadtokir Mujtaba2, Charles M. White2, Paul D. Thompson, FACSM2, and Linda S.
Pescatello, FACSM1
1
University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 2Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT 3Rio de Janeiro State
University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
We previously reported blood pressure (BP) was 5-7 mmHg lower throughout the day after acute
aerobic (AE) but not isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise among adults with prehypertension.
PURPOSE: To compare the clinical correlates of the BP response to acute AE versus IHG to gain
insight into mechanisms explaining the greater antihypertensive effects of AE versus IHG.
METHODS: 26 adults [X±SEM 41.1±2.0yr, systolic BP (SBP)/diastolic BP (DBP)
136.7±2.1/81.9±1.3mmHg] completed 3 random experiments: AE (cycling @ 60% peak oxygen
consumption, VO2peak), IHG (4x2min @ 30% maximum voluntary contraction), and control (seated
rest). Subjects left the laboratory wearing an ambulatory BP monitor for 19hr. We obtained fasting
blood samples to determine the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) and nitrite (NO2-)/nitrate
(NO3-) levels. We determined BP dipper status and the ambulatory arterial stiffness index [1–(slope
of DBP vs SBP)] (ASI). We measured VO2peak and the peak SBP to a cardiopulmonary graded
exercise test (GXT), and the greatest SBP achieved during IHG. Multiple variable regression tested
correlates of the BP response following AE and IHG versus control over 19hr. RESULTS: The
strongest correlates of the BP response to AE were dipper status (r=-0.465 to -0.526), HOMA (r=0.466 to -0.496), VO2peak (r=-0.400), peak SBP to a GXT (r=0.319 to 0.392), resting BP (r=-0.305
to -0.379), and ASI (r=-0.352). The strongest correlates of the BP response to IHG were NO2-/NO3(r=-0.473), HOMA (r=-0.302 to -0.431), resting BP (r=-0.400), VO2peak (r=-0.288 to -0.371), and
SBP during IHG (r=-0.315). CONCLUSION: Several correlates of the BP response following AE
and IHG were similar, although they differed in the strength (i.e., HOMA, VO2peak, and resting BP)
and direction (i.e, peak SBP to a GXT and SBP during IHG) of the association. Nonetheless, only
dipper status and ASI accounted for variability in the BP response after AE and NO2-/NO3- after IHG.
These findings indicate that mechanisms for the greater antihypertensive effects of AE versus IHG
may reside in markers of endothelial function and vascular reactivity.
Support: UConn Research Council; Center for Health, Intervention, and Prevention; Connecticut
Institute for Clinical and Translational Science.
EFFECTS OF INCREMENTAL DIETARY MACRONUTRIENT CHANGES ON FAT
OXIDATION AND BODY COMPOSITION
Laura J. Kunces1, Brittanie M. Volk1, Daniel J. Freidenreich1, Catherine Saenz1, Maria L.
Fernandez1, Carl M. Maresh, FACSM1, William J. Kraemer, FACSM1, Stephen D. Phinney2, Jeff S.
Volek1
1
University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT; 2 University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
Despite evidence that low-carbohydrate diets (LCD) can improve metabolic syndrome (MetS)
characteristics and risk for cardiovascular disease, concerns remain regarding the potential
deleterious effects of higher fat intake. If higher fat intake (in the context of lower carbohydrate
intake) is accompanied by higher fat oxidation, there would likely be more efficient fat loss and
improved health parameters. PURPOSE: Our aim was to examine how diets spanning a broad range
of carbohydrate levels ranging from very low (<50 g/day) to current dietary guidelines (~350 g/day)
affect substrate oxidation patterns and changes in body composition within the same person while
keeping caloric and protein intake constant. METHODS: After an initial 3-wk run-in LCD, 16 adults
with MetS (age 44.9 ± 9.9 yr, BMI 37.9 ± 6.3 kg/m2) were fed six sequential moderately hypocaloric
3-wk diets that progressively increased carbohydrate (CHO) (from 47 to 344 g/day) with concomitant
decreases in total fat. Body composition was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry
(DXA) and respiratory quotient (RQ), fat oxidation, and resting energy expenditure (REE) were
determined by indirect calorimetry after each diet phase. RESULTS: Subjects lost significantly more
fat mass (-2.32±1.53 kg) on the free-living LCD phase, but overall fat mass loss was variable
between subjects and on average less than expected from the calculated caloric deficit (-8.3±4.5 vs
12.74±15.81 kg, respectively). There was a significant decrease in REE, but no significant change in
relative REE (kcals/kg/day). Fat oxidation rates significantly increased when consuming diets with
7% CHO, but decreased to below baseline by the highest CHO phase. RQ decreased on the LCD
(0.75±0.04), and increased linearly as CHO increased, up to 0.84 ±0.05. Body mass was
significantly correlated with CHO consumption (r=0.49), insulin (r=0.34), fat consumption (r=-0.49)
and ketones (r=-0.46). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that it is difficult to estimate weight
loss within an individual, even with a constant caloric deficit, since individuals vary in their substrate
oxidation response to reintroduction of dietary carbohydrate. Those who can maintain a higher fat
oxidation to a greater extent as dietary carbohydrates are increased (and fat decreased) may possess
an enhanced ability for fat loss on higher carbohydrate diets.
MALE FAT PATTERNING NEGATIVELY CORRELATES WITH
CARDIORESPIRATORY FITNESS EVEN IN A HIGHLY ATHLETIC POPULATION
Diego J. Arguello1, Mackenzie Pierson1, and Gregory Cloutier1. 1Northeastern University.
Body fatness has been shown to correlate with lower aerobic performance in athletic populations.
Few studies have quantified this relationship using the gold standard body composition measure, dual
energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), in combination with direct maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max)
measurement. More valid data is needed for training to target body composition aimed at enhancing
aerobic performance. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between
cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), indicated through VO2max, and DEXA percent body fat in an athletic
college aged (20-29 yrs) population. METHODS: 12 males (mean ± sd; age, 22.25 ± 2.18 yrs) were
assessed for body composition (DEXA) and VO2max (graded treadmill protocol with indirect
calorimetry). Pearson product moment correlation coefficients (r; p ≤ 0.05 for significance) were
calculated for relative (mL O2/kg/min) and absolute (L O2/min) VO2max vs. total body % fat, android
% fat, gynoid % fat, trunk % fat, leg % fat, android to gynoid % fat ratio, and trunk to leg % fat
ratios. RESULTS: Subjects were primarily fit with respect to CRF as all subjects (mean ± sd;
VO2max, 50.91 ± 7.89), with the exception of 3 individuals who were above average, exhibited agematched excellent VO2max. Significant negative Pearson product moment correlations were found
between relative VO2max with total % body fat (r -0.62, p 0.03), android % body fat (r -0.64, p 0.02),
gynoid % body fat (r -0.58, p 0.05), and trunk % body fat (r -0.66, p 0.02) and absolute VO2max with
android to gynoid % fat ratios (r -0.65, p 0.02) and trunk to leg % fat ratios (r -0.71, p 0.01)
CONCLUSION: Total and compartmental % body fat, with special emphasis on trunk and android
fat representing visceral fat, were significantly negatively correlated with CRF in an aerobically fit
college male population. Male visceral fat distribution showing the most significant inverse
correlations with CRF suggests typical male fat patterning inhibits VO2max even in aerobically fit
men. Findings of this study may shed light on the need for examination of specific training methods
to improve male aerobic performance via targeted reduction of visceral fat.
TREADMILL TIME - A SENSITIVE INDICATOR OF IMPROVED FUNCTIONAL
CAPACITY IN CKD
Laurel Ayvazian1, Michael Germain2, Jeff Gagnon1, Charles Milch1, Beth Evans1, Richard Wood1,
Jyovani Joubert1, Allen Cornelius3, and Sam Headley1
1
Springfield College 2Western New England Renal and Transplant Associates 3University of
Colorado Rockies
VO2peak has been used as a primary physiological outcome as evidence of improved fitness following
aerobic training programs. PURPOSE: We investigated the effect of a 48 week (study 1, N=15) and
16 week (study 2, N=42) aerobic training program on subjects with CKD. The magnitude of change
in VO2peak and treadmill time during a Modified Bruce protocol between pre and post intervention
was evaluated in the exercise and control group for both studies. Multiple variables that may
contribute to an increase in functional capacity were also assessed. METHODS: The studies
included CKD patients between stages 2 and 4. Subjects were randomly assigned to a control group
(study 1 n=7, study 2 n=19) or an exercise group (study 1 n=8, study 2 n=23) which participated in
supervised, moderate intensity (50-60% VO2peak) aerobic exercise 3 days per week. Objective
methods were used to calculate ventilatory threshold (VT), oxygen efficiency uptake slope (OUES),
and ventilatory efficiency (Ve/VCO2). A 2 x 2 mixed factorial ANOVA was used to analyze all
dependent variables. RESULTS: There was a significant group x time interaction for treadmill time
in both studies (p < .05). No significant interaction or difference was found in either study for
VO2peak, VT, OUES, or Ve/VCO2. All data are presented below as means + SD.
Study 1
VO2
(ml/min)
Study 2
Study 1
Time
(sec)
Study 2
Pre
Post
Control
2057.9 + 293.9
1713.5 + 352.0
%
change
-16.7
Exercise
1561.3 + 613.6
1581.5 + 463.6
1.3
Control
1901.7 + 824.9
1804.0 + 615.5
-5.1
Exercise
1914.4 + 729.3
2041.7 + 720.8
6.7
Control
699.6 + 139.3
707.9 + 196.2
1.2
Exercise
670.6 + 139.3
790.6 + 145.8
17.9*
Control
620.7 + 193.1
610.6 + 171.1
-1.6
Exercise
625.2 + 183.7
761.8 + 170.0
21.9*
CONCLUSION: Of the variables assessed in these studies, exercise time on the treadmill appears to
be the most sensitive marker of improved fitness following aerobic training. In the CKD population
it may be more appropriate to rely on functional improvements such as total exercise time than
measured VO2peak to validate the efficacy of training programs.
FORCE PRODUCTION AND MUSCLE ACTIVITY DURING SPRINT START WHILE
PULLING A WEIGHTED SLED
Chad Lyons, Lara A. Carlson, FACSM, Michael Lawrence
University of New England
Towing weighted sleds is a popular training method used to increase sprint start performance in the
strength and conditioning community. Based on previous research, it has been a challenge to assign
an appropriate load for sled towing to improve sprint start performance. PURPOSE: To determine if
towing weighted sleds during a sprint start increases force generation or muscle activity of the prime
movers. METHODS: Ten well-trained, male mid-distance runners (20.5 ± 1.2 yr, 65.9 ± 4.1 kg, 1.82
± 0.07 m) performed sprint starts while towing weighted sleds. Participants completed 5 sprint start
trials of each condition (unloaded, 20% body weight [BWT], and 40% BWT loads). The sled was
attached at the waist and participants took a two point staggered starting position. Propulsive Ground
Reaction Force (PGRF) impulse, and integrated muscle activity of the gluteus maximus, vastus
lateralis, vastus medialis, biceps femoris, and gastrocnemius were measured for each limb.
Electromyography data were normalized to a maximal voluntary isometric contraction. Limb pushoff time was measured to determine if an increase in PGRF was due to an increase in force or time to
push off. A repeated measures one-way ANOVA with a Boneferroni post hoc analysis was used to
determine statistical significance (p<0.05). RESULTS: The only significant difference was an
increase in push-off time in the front limb (Table 1). CONCLUSION: Towing a sled did not
increase force output during a sprint start, nor did muscle activity increase in any muscle. Therefore,
use of a heavily loaded sled is not suggested to improve muscular strength or force output during a
sprint start.
Table 1: Propulsive Impulse GRF, Peak GRF, and Limb push off Time (n = 10), M ± SD
Front Limb
Propulsive
Impulse
(Ns*kg-1)
Rear Limb
Propulsive
Impulse
(Ns*kg-1)
Front Limb
Rear Limb
Push-off Time Push-off Time
(s)
(s)
Unloaded
0.15 ± 0.03
0.16 ± 0.04
0.36 ± 0.05
0.35 ± 0.06
20% BWT
0.18 ± 0.02
0.18 ± 0.04
0.41 ± 0.05
0.39 ± 0.06
40% BWT
0.20 ± 0.02
0.20 ± 0.05
0.45 ± 0.05*
0.41 ± 0.08
* Significantly (p < 0.05) different than unloaded
Funding provided by the NEACSM Undergraduate Research Experience Grant, and the University of
New England Westbrook College of Health Profession 2014 Summer Undergraduate Research
Fellowship.
EFFECT OF PROGRESSIVE RESISTANCE TRAINING ON HYPERTROPHY,
STRENGTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN OLD ADULTS
Rebecca J. Daniels, Michelle R. Villa, Hannah Barile, Dain P. LaRoche FACSM, Summer B. Cook
FACSM
Evidence indicates that old adults (80+ years old) may not experience significant gains in muscle
hypertrophy and strength despite engaging in progressive resistance training. PURPOSE: The
purpose of this study was to determine whether adults 80 years old and older can experience
improvements in muscle hypertrophy, strength and quality of life following 12-weeks of progressive
resistance training on the quadriceps and hamstrings. METHODS: Nine non-obese participants aged
80-92 years old classified as being at risk of mobility limitations based on a strength-to-weight ratio
following a leg extension exercise (males<1.71 Nm•kg-1, females<1.34 Nm•kg-1) enrolled in this
study. The participants were randomly divided into two exercise intervention groups: high load (HL)
resistance training (n=5, 84.4±4.4 years, 164.2±7.7 cm, 71.8±12.9 kg) and control (CON) group
(n=4, 83.8±5.7 years, 169.6±7.5 cm, 76.5±11.3 kg). HL completed progressive resistance training
two days per week for 12 weeks at 70% of estimated one repetition maximum (1-RM) on leg
extension, leg curl and leg press machines. CON engaged in light upper body stretching and
resistance exercises for the same frequency and duration. Magnetic resonance imaging measured
cross-sectional area (CSA) of the thigh, 10-RM was measured on the leg press, and the SF-36
assessed quality of life. Measurements were taken before and after the 12 weeks of training. Percent
change was calculated, independent t-tests were used to determine significant differences at P<0.05,
and Cohen’s d was calculated to determine effect sizes. RESULTS: CSA of the thigh increased
6.0±4.4% and 1.4±1.0% in the HL and CON groups respectively (P=0.09; d=1.44). Estimated 1-RM
leg press strength increased 24.5±15.1% and 9.0±10.4%in the HL and CON groups respectively
(P=0.13; d=1.20). Neither group had a significant difference in quality of life (P˃0.05).
CONCLUSION: Completing a 12-week HL or CON resistance training program did not induce
statistically significant changes in strength and hypertrophy in the old adults, but large effect sizes
were evident suggesting that the small sample size may be a limitation. Old adults that engage in HL
resistance training may have clinically meaningful improvements in strength and hypertrophy.
However, this may not translate into a measureable impact on quality of life. Supported by: NIH
Grant 1R15 A6040700-01A1
QUANTIFICATION OF RAPID REPETITIVE MOVEMENTS BY MANUAL COUNTING AND
FORCE PLATFORM ANALYSIS
Erica Hartman1, Amy Desmond1, Stephanie Jones1, Carl Jewell1, Jane A. Kent1
1
University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA
Rapid movements, such as foot tapping, are common in clinical settings for identifying individuals
with declining central motor drive. Traditionally, tapping has been measured manually by counting
the number of taps in a defined period of time. However, manual counting introduces investigator
error and provides only the number of taps as an outcome variable. Therefore, we investigated the
use of a force platform to count the number of rapid foot taps and to provide information about
additional performance variables. PURPOSE: compare manual and force platform methods, and
quantify Inter-Tap-Interval (ITI, ms) and standard deviation (SD) of the ITI from the force platform
data. METHODS: 10 participants (mean±SD, 21.7±1.06 years, 5F, 5M) sat comfortably in a
standard lab chair (seat height 45cm) with the knee and hip of the tested leg at ~90°. The ball of the
right foot rested on a force platform (Advanced Mechanical Technology Inc, Watertown MA) and the
heel was off the platform. The participant briefly practiced tapping as fast as possible and then
performed three 10-s trials, with 60s rest between trials. One researcher indicated the beginning and
end of the task verbally while another counted the number of times the foot made contact with the
force platform, which recorded ground reaction forces. The same researchers performed all tests. A
Matlab (Mathworks Inc, Natick MA) program was used to determine the number of taps from the
force data by identifying a tap as a deviation of force from baseline, and average and SD for ITI were
calculated. RESULTS: For all trials, the number of taps was higher for the manual vs. the force
platform method (overall average 55.3±8.1 vs. 50.9±7.4, respectively, p=0.047), as was the highest
count of the 3 trials for each individual (p=0.032). Average ITI was 20.5ms, with a range of 17.6 to
25.5ms and average SD of ITI was 4.70ms, with a range of 2.49 to 7.87ms. CONCLUSION:
Performing rapid foot tapping on a force platform could reduce interpreter bias and provide
information on dynamic movement variables related to the variability of performance.
EFFECT OF TELEOANTICIPATION ON PEAK TORQUE DURING MAXIMAL BICEP
CURLS
Liam Fitzgerald1, Matthew Davies2, Alan St. Clair Gibson3, & Dan Eastough2
1
University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; 2University of Worcester, England, United Kingdom; 3University of
Northumbria, England, United Kingdom.
Exercise-induced fatigue is a multi-faceted phenomenon that is not fully understood. It is suggested
that knowledge of the endpoint of exercise, termed teleoanticipation, plays a key role in modulating
exercise performance. PURPOSE: To demonstrate how peak torque is modulated during maximal
bicep curls when knowledge of the endpoint of exercise is altered. METHODS: In Study 1, 10
resistance trained males (mean±SD; aged 20.1±0.74 years) completed 5 sets of 12 maximal isokinetic
bicep curls on an isokinetic dynamometer at 60º·s-1, with 90s rest between sets. In Study 2, 14 elite
male basketball players (23.6±3.3 years) completed 4 sets of 12 maximal isokinetic bicep curls at 60º·s1
, with 90s rest between sets. Upon completion of their fourth set, participants completed an
unexpected, additional set. Participants were instructed to perform each contraction maximally. For
both studies, repeated measures ANOVAs were used to analyze peak torque during the concentric
phase of sets 1, 4, and 5. Significance was set with an alpha level of p<0.05. Significant results were
followed up with tests of simple effects. RESULTS: Peak torque was lower in set 5 compared to set
1 in both studies (Study 1: 39.7±3.1 vs. 47.9±4.4 N.m-1; Study 2: 52.9±2.6 vs. 56.4±3.9 N.m-1, p<0.001
for both). In Study 1, set 5 was not different from set 4 (39.7±3.1 vs. 40.1±4.1 N.m-1, p>0.05). Notably,
an increase in peak torque was evident across the final 2 repetitions, but only in set 5. In Study 2, peak
torque was higher in set 5 than in set 4 (52.9±2.6 vs.51.1±2.0 N.m-1, p<0.05), and peak torque increased
across the final 2-3 repetitions of sets 4 and 5 only. CONCLUSION: The increase in peak torque
during the final repetitions of set 5 (both studies), and set 4 (Study 2) suggests the task was completed
‘with a reserve’ allowing an increase in torque at the end of the set. Surprisingly, this ‘endspurt’ occurs
even when that set is unexpected. Additionally, altering knowledge about the endpoint of exercise can
increase torque production in elite athletes, when the task does not utilize large quantities of muscle
mass and is not hemodynamically compromised.
GRANT FUNDING: No grants were obtained for the completion of this study.
EFFECTS OF SOCIAL SUPPORT ON INDIVIDUALS’ RESULTS OF 12-WEEKS OF
CARDIAC REHABILITATION
Danika Korpacz1 , Peter Tilkemeier2,3 , Linda S. Lamont1 , and Bryan Blissmer1
1
University of Rhode Island, 2Department of Medicine, Greenville Health System,
3
University of South Carolina School of Medicine- Greenville
PURPOSE: This study analyzed the effects of social support on individuals’ results of 12-weeks of
cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Specifically, this study investigated whether or not participants decreased
body mass index, increased stress test duration, showed greater changes in maximum attained heart
during stress test and attained overall improvements in SF-36 scores. METHODS: Fifty-five men and
women were recruited from The Miriam Hospital Center for Cardiac Fitness. All participants
completed twelve weeks of CR including a treadmill stress test. Pre and post tests were used for
physiological measurements. The ENRICHD Social Support Instrument (ESSI) was completed within
three weeks of beginning the program. The majority of participants had high levels of perceived social
support (N= 49), as categorized by a minimum score of 28 out of 34. Participants had lower perceived
social support if they scored 27 or below (N=6). RESULTS: The level of perceived social support did
not have an impact upon changes in weight, BMI, stress test time and maximum attained heart rate
over the course of CR enrollment. A generalized linear model showed that those with higher perceived
social support reported higher scores on the overall physical composite score; as well as, the physical
functioning, vitality and social functioning subscales of the SF-36. CONCLUSION: CR participants
with high perceived social support improved their physical health, physical functioning, vitality and
social functioning over 12-weeks of CR when compared with a lower perceived social support group.
Interestingly, those participants with lower perceived social support decreased their physical composite
score and physical functioning subscale despite improvements in their physical functioning measures.
This finding is interesting considering the majority of these participants would typically be categorized
as having high levels of perceived social support.
BLOOD PRESSURE RESPONSES TO AEROBIC EXERCISE AT TWO DIFFERENT
INTENSITIES IN PATIENTS WITH RESISTANT HYPERTENSION
Lucas P. Santos1, Paulo J. C. Vieira1, Gustavo Waclavowsky1, Ruy S. Moraes2, Garret I. Ash3,
Amanda Zaleski3, Linda S. Pescatello, FACSM3, Daniel Umpierre1
1
Graduate Program in Cardiovascular Sciences,2Medical School, Federal University of Rio Grande
do Sul, Brazil, 3Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut.
Patients with resistant hypertension (RH) present low responsiveness to pharmacological therapy that
underscores the potential importance of regular exercise in blood pressure (BP) control in this
population. However, the BP response to aerobic exercise in patients with RH is poorly understood.
PURPOSE: The purpose was to characterize the BP response to two different intensities of aerobic
exercise in patients with RH. METHODS: Thirteen men (n=3) and women (n=10) (mean±sd; 56.1±6.0
yr; 29.8±4.7 kg.m-2; resting BP 131.2±12.1/76.0±11.1 mmHg) taking three (n=3) or more
antihypertensive medications (n=10) underwent a peak graded cardiopulmonary exercise test in order
to screen for major cardiac dysfunction and heart rate (HR) parameters for exercise prescription. In
randomized order and on different days subjects cycled 45 min at 50%HRmax [low-intensity (LI)] and
75%HRmax [moderate-intensity (MI)]. While exercising, BP was assessed by the oscillometric method
(Dinamap, Critikon) every 5 min with the last measurement used to compare to baseline BP values.
RESULTS: During LI, systolic BP rose from a baseline of 127.5±19.2 mmHg to 144.3±27.5 mmHg
(p<0.01); whereas diastolic BP tended to rise from a baseline of 74.8±11.1 mmHg to 79.8±13.2 mmHg
(p=0.09). During MI, systolic BP rose for a baseline of 126.6±14.8 mmHg to 159.8±21.2 mmHg;
whereas diastolic BP rose from 75.0±9.5 to 88.1±15.5 mmHg (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In patients
with RH, we found the BP response to LI and MI well within the recommended range for the BP
response to aerobic exercise. Therefore, recommending low-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercise
appears prudent for patients with RH.
Supported by: Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Research Incentive Funding/Hospital de
Clínicas de Porto Alegre.
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SEDENTARY BEHAVIOR
LEVELS WITH SLEEP DURATION AND QUALITY IN AFRICAN AMERICAN GIRLS
Cory Greever, Ogechi Nwaokelemeh, Sarah Burkart, Matthew Ahmadi, Christine St. Laurent, and
Sofiya Alhassan, FACSM. University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Amherst, MA.
Insufficient physical activity (PA), increased sedentary time (SED) and poor sleep have been
associated with higher cardiovascular disease risk in children. Research suggests that AfricanAmerican girls are more likely to be physically inactive and experience poor sleep than their
Caucasian counterparts. While many speculate that increased PA and decreased SED improves sleep,
few studies have examined the relationship between PA/SED and sleep in this at-risk population.
PURPOSE: To examine the associations between time spent in different PA intensities and SED
with sleep duration and quality in pre-adolescent African-American girls. METHODS: Baseline data
of girls (n=36; age, 8.4±1.2yrs; BMI percentile, 64.8±32.7) who participated in the Mothers and Girls
Dancing Together study were used in this analysis. Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), light PA
(LPA) and SED were assessed with Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometers during waking hours for seven
consecutive days. Sleep duration, overall sleep quality and sleep subscale scores were evaluated via
parental report on the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire. Associations between PA/SED and
sleep variables were examined with Spearman correlations. Participants were divided into tertiles of
MVPA, LPA and SED. Differences in sleep variables between the most and least active/SED groups
were compared using Mann Whitney U tests. RESULTS: There were no significant correlations
between times spent in PA or SED with any sleep variables. However, there were trends suggesting
an inverse relationship between LPA and sleep disordered breathing (SDB) subscale scores (r=-0.29,
p=0.08) and a positive relationship between SED and SDB subscale scores (r=0.32, p=0.06). The
highest LPA and lowest SED tertiles had lower SDB subscale scores (less problems) compared with
the lowest LPA and highest SED tertiles, respectively (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: AfricanAmerican children are more likely to develop SDB compared to other ethnic groups. In this small
sample of African-American girls, those who got the most LPA and least SED reported fewer SDB
related sleep problems than those who got the least LPA and most SED. Future work using
longitudinal designs, objective sleep measurements and larger samples is needed to fully examine the
nature and direction of these potential associations in this population.
This study was funded by National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (K01
DK087812-01A1).
EVALUATING THE EXERCISE PRESCRIPTION AND INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS OF
TAI CHI STUDIES AIMED AT IMPROVING BALANCE
Yin Wu1, Hayley V. MacDonald1, and Linda S. Pescatello, FACSM1
1
University of Connecticut
Tai Chi is recommended to improve balance among older adults, yet there are no specific guidelines
for the exercise prescription (ExRx) or instructional methods of Tai Chi practice. PURPOSE: Our
systematic review addressed these gaps.
METHODS: Electronic databases identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Tai Chi
interventions aimed at improving balance among older adults (≥60yr) without severe debilitating
diseases. We developed a 13-item scale to evaluate the ExRx (i.e., time, frequency, intervention
length) and instructional (e.g., style, number of forms, form name) methods. RESULTS: 28 trials
yielded 29 interventions. On average Tai Chi was performed 2.8±1.4 session·wk-1 for 56.2±13.9
min·session-1 for 19.3±12.4 wk. ExRx methods were well reported with a mean satisfaction rate of
reporting 93.1%±18.3% of the three items. In contrast, the mean satisfaction rate for instructional
methods was 41.7%±18.9% of the 10 instructional methods (p=0.03). Surprisingly, less than half of
the trials reported unsupervised practice (14%), progression (24%), or the use of breathing (31%) and
relaxation techniques (17%). Of greater concern, instructional methods most important for tailoring
Tai Chi practice to improve balance were not routinely disclosed, with only 55% reporting style, 48%
movement principles, and 14% form name.
CONCLUSION: Most Tai Chi trials disclosed their ExRx methods, but routinely failed to report
instructional methods. In order to improve the effectiveness of Tai Chi to improve balance among
older adults, future RCTs should reveal both their ExRx and instructional methods, especially those
methods that target balance.