No full-text available
To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.
Flotation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy improves sleep and performance recovery in athletes
Abstract
Objective
The purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of flotation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (FLOAT) on recovery from exercise.
Methods
Nineteen trained, male team-sport athletes (age: 21 ± 2 years) completed two trials separated by seven days; FLOAT, which included one-hour of FLOAT recovery following exercise, and CON, which included one-hour of passive recovery following exercise. Performance and pressure-to-pain algometer measures were taken pre and post exercise and the following morning. Performance measures included an isometric mid-thigh pull, countermovement jump (CMJ), a 15 m sprint, and a repeated sprint test. Perceived measures of muscle soreness (MS) and physical fatigue (PF) were recorded up to 24 h post testing. Salivary cortisol samples were collected pre and post exercise and post recovery. Sleep was monitored via wrist-actigraphy.
Results
FLOAT was found to significantly enhance CMJ (p = 0.05), 10 m sprint (p = 0.01) and 15 m sprint performance (p = 0.05) with small to moderate effects (d = 0.21–0.68) for all performance measures, except CMJ (unclear), compared to CON. The results also show significantly higher pressure-to-pain thresholds across all muscle sites (p’s < 0.01) and lower MS and PF 12 h following FLOAT (p < 0.05). All sleep measures resulted in small to large effects (d = 0.20–0.87) with a significantly greater perceived sleep quality (p = 0.001) for the FLOAT trial compared to CON. There were no significant differences and a trivial effect size between trials for changes in cortisol concentration.
Conclusion
FLOAT may prove to be an effective method of exercise recovery, improving aspects of performance, pressure-to-pain threshold, perceived MS and PF, and sleep quality.
... [4][5][6] Recently, FR has also been used by elite competitive athletes as a technique for recovering from the physical and mental stresses incurred during high-intensity (load) performance training. 4,7,8 Various stress-related measures have also been reported to improve following FR, such as those of brain waves (e.g., alpha, theta), and reductions in epinephrine levels, renin activity values, resting heart rate, blood pressure measurements, adrenocorticotropic hormone levels, and urinary and plasma cortisol levels. 3,4,9 Positive outcomes from FR in healthy participants and those with chronic stress-related conditions are well documented in the literature. ...
... These conditions subsequently elicit activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in reduced heart rate response, the diminished release of hormones epinephrine and cortisol, and reductions in resting blood pressure. 7 Although there are a variety of effective recovery/relaxation strategies, such as diaphragmatic breathing, mindfulness, and yoga, some participants report difficulty initiating the RR through the use of these active interventions, which require learning a skill. 6 However, this difficulty can be ameliorated through FR, which has been reported to passively induce the RR in these types of individuals. ...
... In addition to improved psychological measures, researchers have reported corresponding improvements in stress-related physiological outcome measures because of FR, including reductions in cortisol levels, electrodermal response (i.e., emotional arousal state), and subjective measures of pain. 6,7 Other observed benefits of FR therapy include enhanced cardiovascular system function, referred to as the vasodilator effect, in which the circulation of blood and body fluids is enhanced while blood pressure and resting heart rate are reduced. These improvements may be attributed to the reduced effects of gravitational forces on the human body, allowing joints, muscles, tendons, and arteries to relax. ...
The flotation-restriction environmental stimulation technique (FR) may have utility as a recovery tool for improving performance in elite competitive athletes and Special Operations Forces Operators (SOs). Studies suggest that FR may ameliorate various neurophysiological disorders and improve performance in recreational and elite athletic populations. We sought to understand whether there is evidence to support the use of FR to enhance physiological and psychological performance parameters in the SO population and to provide postulations as to the mechanisms of action of FR therapy. We performed an online literary search of publications dating from 1982 to 2021 and identified 34 sources addressing the aims, depending on population and condition or conditions, being treated. The reported physiological and psychological benefits of FR range from immediate to lasting 4 months. Overall, eight to twelve FR treatment sessions of from 40 to 90 minutes each may provide variable long-term benefits. The associated synergistic benefits of FR may be attributed to its thermal, chemical, and mechanical effects but deserve further exploration. Based on the current evidence, FR may serve as an effective performance-recovery therapy for improving pain, sleep, and performance measures (e.g., marksmanship and physical performance) in trained, untrained, and healthy adults. Future research focusing on FR as a unimodal recovery intervention is warranted in a specialized group of SOs.
... The qualitative methodological assessment was done as follows regarding the included nine studies [16,20,[27][28][29][30][31][32][33]. MT and ANC independently reviewed and graded all eight studies and then compared ratings. ...
... All participants in this study were diagnosed with insomnia. All other studies except one [32] consisted of clinical samples in which sleep problems are common or healthy athletes [29]. ...
... Six of the nine studies were randomized controlled trials [16,20,27,28,31]. Two of these used an active control group [28,29] and in the others the control group consisted of no treatment (i.e., a passive control). The sleep measurements that were reported consisted of one measure per study, and in all studies but one, these outcomes were self-reported. ...
Introduction
Some therapies described within alternative and complementary medicine are advertised as sleep-promoting, including flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique). Flotation-REST induces deep relaxation through sensory isolation in a water-filled tank and is plausibly reported to mitigate insomnia problems, which have consistently been associated with stress, worry and arousal. However, the effects of flotation-REST have not been previously summarised. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the efficacy of flotation-REST on sleep in clinical and non-clinical samples.
Methods
A systematic search for studies on flotation-REST, involving at least one sleep-related variable, was conducted in the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and PsychINFO. Thirteen full-text articles met the inclusion criteria and were considered for eligibility. Nine were included in the current review. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using a structured checklist, and a standard data extraction sheet was used to summarize the ratings.
Results
In all included studies, flotation-REST demonstrated beneficial effects on sleep, both in clinical and non-clinical samples. In two studies, the effects were maintained 4 or 6 months post-treatment. The quality of the sleep outcome measures were, however, low in most studies, particularly regarding the participants’ nightly sleep habits, self-reported sleep problems and insomnia diagnosis.
Conclusions
Flotation-REST may be a promising treatment for insomnia symptoms, but more controlled studies with established sleep measures, and on populations with clinically verified insomnia, are needed.
... While it is becoming a popular method of athlete recovery, with reports of professional teams including float tanks in their locker rooms or facilities, there is limited empirical evidence to consider. The few studies in this area report promising effects of floating on perceived muscle soreness, blood markers (e.g., blood lactate), fatigue, mood state, sleep, and some performance measures (e.g., sprint performance) [79][80][81]. In particular, the use of floatation in the late afternoon/evening following training appears to enhance subsequent sleep and next-day performance [80]. ...
... The few studies in this area report promising effects of floating on perceived muscle soreness, blood markers (e.g., blood lactate), fatigue, mood state, sleep, and some performance measures (e.g., sprint performance) [79][80][81]. In particular, the use of floatation in the late afternoon/evening following training appears to enhance subsequent sleep and next-day performance [80]. While these findings are positive, it is clear more research is required in this area to inform practitioners, particularly around the optimal duration and timing of float therapy. ...
The sport and athletic performance industry has seen a plethora of new recovery devices and technologies over recent years, and it has become somewhat difficult for athletes, coaches, and practitioners to navigate the efficacy of such devices or whether they are even required at all. With the increase in recovery devices and tools, it has also become commonplace for athletes to overlook more traditional, well-established recovery strategies. In this narrative review, we discuss recovery strategies in relation to the hierarchy of scientific evidence, classifying them based on the strength of the evidence, ranging from meta-analyses through to case studies and reports. We report that foam rolling, compression garments, cryotherapy, photobiomodulation, hydrotherapy, and active recovery have a high level of positive evidence for improved recovery outcomes, while sauna, recovery boots/sleeves, occlusion cuffs, and massage guns currently have a lower level of evidence and mixed results for their efficacy. Finally, we provide guidance for practitioners when deciding on recovery strategies to use with athletes during different phases of the season.
... Pressure was applied by the researcher at a speed of 10 N/s −1 , with one hand used to stabilize the arm. 15 Participants were required to immediately alert the researcher when the sensation changed from pressure to pain. 15 ...
... 15 Participants were required to immediately alert the researcher when the sensation changed from pressure to pain. 15 ...
Objective:
The aim of the current study was to investigate the efficacy of an upper-body intermittent sequential pneumatic compression (ISPC) device on recovery after wheelchair team sport activity.
Design:
Eleven well-trained wheelchair basketball and rugby athletes (8 male, 3 female, mean ± SD age = 33 ± 10 years) performed a series of performance measures pre-exercise, post-exercise and post-recovery (grip strength, pressure-to-pain threshold (PPT), medicine ball throw, wheelchair sprints, repeated sprints). Subjective muscle soreness and fatigue measurements were taken at the same time points as performance tests, with an additional 24 hours post-recovery measure. Participants completed two recovery trials, separated by one week, of either passive recovery (CON) or 20 minutes of wearing recovery arm-sleeves (ISPC) applied to both arms.
Results:
No statistically significant differences were found between trials for any of the performance or perceptual measures (p > 0.05). However, effect size analysis revealed a moderate decrease (d = -0.67) from post-exercise to post-recovery for muscle fatigue in favour of IPSC. A large decrease (d = -0.96) in muscle soreness was also found post-exercise to 24 hours post-recovery in favour of ISPC over CON.
Conclusion:
ISPC may provide some benefit for perceptual recovery measures immediately following and 24 hours after high intensity wheelchair activity with negligible effects on performance-recovery.
... Floatation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (Float-REST), as an innovative modality for postexercise recovery, has garnered attention for its potential to alleviate stress, enhance sleep quality, and balance autonomic nervous system activity. This therapy has demonstrated utility across diverse populations, including trained athletes, soldiers, and untrained adults, suggesting its broad applicability (3,27). Concurrently, resistance exercise is renowned for inducing various physiological responses, notably activating the hypopituitary axis, releasing betaendorphin (b-End), and the hypopituitary adrenal medullary axes stimulating the secretion of proenkephalin fragments (e.g. ...
Kraemer, WJ, Caldwell, LK, Post, EM, Volek, JS, Hagen, JM, Newton, RU, Häkkinen, K, Omonije, O, and Maresh, CM. Endogenous opioid peptides after floatation therapy in resistance trained men. J Strength Cond Res 38(10): 1808–1812, 2024.
Floatation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (Float-REST) has shown improvements in muscle soreness and fatigue. To determine whether float influences the release of beta-endorphin (β-End) and proenkephalin (ProEnk) after acute heavy resistance exercise, 11 healthy resistance-trained men (age: 22.5 ± 2.3 years; height: 176.4 ± 6.0 cm; body mass: 85.7 ± 6.2 kg, back squat one-repetition maximum: 153.1 ± 20.1 kg; strength-to-mass ratio: 1.8 ± 0.2) completed a within-subject, cross-over controlled study design. Subjects completed 2 exercise testing blocks separated by a 2-week washout. In one block, a 1-hour float session followed the high-intensity resistance exercise protocol (6 × 10 back squats at 80% 1RM, 2 minutes rest). By contrast, recovery in the alternate block consisted of a passive sensory-stimulating control. Blood samples were collected at 5 time points—before exercise, immediately after exercise, after1-hour recovery treatment, 24 hours after exercise, and 48 hours after exercise. Samples were analyzed in duplicate for β-End and ProEnk using ELISA immunoassays. Mean differences were assessed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Plasma β-End demonstrated the expected significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase following resistance exercise in both treatment conditions. There were no significant changes with exercise stress for ProEnk precursor peptide. The absence of significant differential changes following Float-REST suggests that these opioid peptides may not underlie the deep relaxation experiences commonly reported with this intervention in trained men. However, practically, it shows that β-End remains consistently similarly increased to high-intensity exercise stress. However, the ProEnk concentrations are detectable and stable but do not respond to the workout protocol, which, as a primary opioid peptide precursor, suggests paracrine cybernetics in the circulation may exist.
... Thus, the authors conclude that flotation-REST may reduce stress and anxiety but may not directly improve golfing performance. [42]. 19 male athletes completed a 1-hour flotation-REST session and a 1-hour passive recovery session in which they sat in a reclined chair in a dimly lit room. ...
Background
Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) is a therapeutic technique that involves immersing an individual in an environment with minimal sensory input or stimulation. The goal of REST is to induce a state of relaxation that is deeper than what can be achieved through other forms of relaxation techniques. Research suggests that REST can help reduce anxiety, alleviate chronic pain, improve sleep, and enhance creativity and cognitive function. Flotation-REST is a popular type of REST that utilizes an enclosed tank filled with buoyant saltwater to facilitate relaxation.
Methods
We used PRISMA to survey the flotation-REST literature from 1960 to 2023. From each paper, we extracted information regarding the participant sample, application of flotation-REST, experimental design, treatment delivery method, questionnaires and tools, and study results.
Results
We propose that the application of flotation-REST can be divided into nine main categories: pain, athletic performance, physiology, stress, consciousness, psychology, creativity, clinical anxiety, sleep, smoking cessation, and other miscellaneous applications. In general, flotation-REST was found to bring about positive effects on pain, athletic performance, stress, mental well-being, and clinical anxiety, while having limited to no effect on sleep-related disorders and smoking cessation.
Conclusion
This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current research on flotation-REST, highlights ongoing limitations in the literature, and outlines potential areas for future research. While flotation-REST appears to induce various benefits for physical and mental well-being, particularly when it comes to managing states like pain and stress, more research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying these effects and to identify optimal treatment protocols for different populations.
... Compared with longer sprints (> 30 m), these shorter distances emphasise the acceleration phase of sprinting and were often applied with court-based athletes (i.e. basketball and handball) [122,[139][140][141]. Shorter distances may better reflect the competitive environment of court-based team sports where players are engaged in sprint efforts of 15 m and less [119,142,143]. ...
Background
Repeated-sprint training (RST) involves maximal-effort, short-duration sprints (≤ 10 s) interspersed with brief recovery periods (≤ 60 s). Knowledge about the acute demands of RST and the influence of programming variables has implications for training prescription.
Objectives
To investigate the physiological, neuromuscular, perceptual and performance demands of RST, while also examining the moderating effects of programming variables (sprint modality, number of repetitions per set, sprint repetition distance, inter-repetition rest modality and inter-repetition rest duration) on these outcomes.
Methods
The databases Pubmed, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE and Scopus were searched for original research articles investigating overground running RST in team sport athletes ≥ 16 years. Eligible data were analysed using multi-level mixed effects meta-analysis, with meta-regression performed on outcomes with ~ 50 samples (10 per moderator) to examine the influence of programming factors. Effects were evaluated based on coverage of their confidence (compatibility) limits (CL) against elected thresholds of practical importance.
Results
From 908 data samples nested within 176 studies eligible for meta-analysis, the pooled effects (± 90% CL) of RST were as follows: average heart rate (HRavg) of 163 ± 9 bpm, peak heart rate (HRpeak) of 182 ± 3 bpm, average oxygen consumption of 42.4 ± 10.1 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹, end-set blood lactate concentration (B[La]) of 10.7 ± 0.6 mmol·L⁻¹, deciMax session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE) of 6.5 ± 0.5 au, average sprint time (Savg) of 5.57 ± 0.26 s, best sprint time (Sbest) of 5.52 ± 0.27 s and percentage sprint decrement (Sdec) of 5.0 ± 0.3%. When compared with a reference protocol of 6 × 30 m straight-line sprints with 20 s passive inter-repetition rest, shuttle-based sprints were associated with a substantial increase in repetition time (Savg: 1.42 ± 0.11 s, Sbest: 1.55 ± 0.13 s), whereas the effect on sRPE was trivial (0.6 ± 0.9 au). Performing two more repetitions per set had a trivial effect on HRpeak (0.8 ± 1.0 bpm), B[La] (0.3 ± 0.2 mmol·L⁻¹), sRPE (0.2 ± 0.2 au), Savg (0.01 ± 0.03) and Sdec (0.4; ± 0.2%). Sprinting 10 m further per repetition was associated with a substantial increase in B[La] (2.7; ± 0.7 mmol·L⁻¹) and Sdec (1.7 ± 0.4%), whereas the effect on sRPE was trivial (0.7 ± 0.6). Resting for 10 s longer between repetitions was associated with a substantial reduction in B[La] (−1.1 ± 0.5 mmol·L⁻¹), Savg (−0.09 ± 0.06 s) and Sdec (−1.4 ± 0.4%), while the effects on HRpeak (−0.7 ± 1.8 bpm) and sRPE (−0.5 ± 0.5 au) were trivial. All other moderating effects were compatible with both trivial and substantial effects [i.e. equal coverage of the confidence interval (CI) across a trivial and a substantial region in only one direction], or inconclusive (i.e. the CI spanned across substantial and trivial regions in both positive and negative directions).
Conclusions
The physiological, neuromuscular, perceptual and performance demands of RST are substantial, with some of these outcomes moderated by the manipulation of programming variables. To amplify physiological demands and performance decrement, longer sprint distances (> 30 m) and shorter, inter-repetition rest (≤ 20 s) are recommended. Alternatively, to mitigate fatigue and enhance acute sprint performance, shorter sprint distances (e.g. 15–25 m) with longer, passive inter-repetition rest (≥ 30 s) are recommended.
... Similar to our findings, Morgan et al. (2013) found no treatment differences in functional performance when floatation-REST was compared to a passive control condition following maximal resistance exercise (8). However, when floatation-REST was used in recovery from a simulated team sport competition stress-involving primarily running and jumping tasks-the intervention resulted in improvements in both strength and sprint performance (40). Differences in performance findings between these studies are likely attributed to differences in the underlying mechanism responsible for the performance decrement (fatigue, soreness, structural damage, etc.). ...
Purpose:
The aim of the present investigation was to determine whether a one-hour floatation-REST session could augment recovery from high-intensity resistance exercise (6 x10 back squats, 2 minutes rest) known to induce significant metabolic, adrenergic, and mechanical stress.
Methods:
Eleven healthy resistance-trained males (age: 22.5 ± 2.3 years; height: 176.4 ± 6.0 cm; weight: 85.7 ± 6.2 kg, back squat 1RM: 153.1 ± 20.1 kg; strength to weight ratio: 1.8 ± 0.2) completed the within-subjects, cross-over controlled study design. Participants completed two exercise testing blocks separated by a two-week washout. In one block, the high-intensity resistance exercise protocol was followed by a one-hour floatation-REST session, while recovery in the alternate block consisted of a passive sensory-stimulating control. Markers of metabolic stress, neuroendocrine signaling, structural damage, inflammation, and perceptions of soreness, mood state and fatigue were assessed over a 48-hour recovery window.
Results:
Floatation-REST significantly attenuated muscle soreness across recovery (p = 0.035) with greatest treatment difference immediately following the intervention (p = 0.002, ES = 1.3). Significant differences in norepinephrine (p = 0.028, ES = 0.81) and testosterone (p = 0.028, ES = 0.81) immediately following treatment revealed modification of neuroendocrine signaling pathways which were accompanied by greater improvements in mood disturbance (p = 0.029, ES = 0.81) and fatigue (p = 0.001, ES = 1.04).
Conclusions:
As no adverse effects and significant and meaningful benefits were observed, floatation-REST may prove a valuable intervention for managing soreness and enhancing performance readiness following exercise.
... In a study looking at 19 athletes and floating, participants not only had improved athletic performance recovery, but also experienced significant improvements in having "deeper sleep, fewer awakenings during the night, and a sense of renewed energy upon awakening in the morning." 19 Kjellgren et al observed that floating did not appear to alter the quality or duration of sleep in a study involving 37 patients, but it was found to significantly shorten the length of time needed to fall asleep. 12 This may be related to the relaxation and anxiolytic effects of floating. ...
The purpose of this article is to introduce healthcare providers to the concept of floatation therapy. This paper explores which types of patients will most likely find floating beneficial for specific health challenges. In addition, it discusses patients who should avoid floatation therapy.
... Finally, participants performed a 2-min isometric wall sit, involving sitting with their backs against a wall, feet flat on the ground, and knees bent at 90°. This protocol including the BEST, lunge jumps and wall sit has been used previously and has been shown to ensure fatigue and muscle soreness are elicited (Broderick et al., 2019). ...
This study examined the effects of lower-body compression garments on perceived recovery and subsequent performance in basketball athletes. In a parallel-group design, 30 recreational, male basketball athletes were randomly allocated to either a control (CON, n = 15, loose-fitting clothing) or experimental group (COMP, n = 15, compression garments) for 15 h following fatigue-inducing, basketball-specific exercise in the evening (1600-1800 h). Perceptual measures of fatigue and muscle soreness, as well as physical performance tests (sprints, jumps and agility), were performed pre-exercise, post-exercise, and post-recovery (15 h following exercise). Subjective and objective measures of sleep were recorded following the exercise trial. There were non-significant (p > 0.05), unclear-trivial differences between groups for all performance measures. Perceived post-recovery fatigue (d = −1.27, large) and muscle soreness (d = −1.61, large) were significantly lower in COMP compared to CON (p < 0.05). COMP exhibited better perceived sleep quality (d = 0.42, small, p = 0.18) than CON, with an unclear difference in sleep duration between groups (p > 0.05). Wearing lower-body compression garments overnight improved perceived fatigue and muscle soreness, but had negligible effects on subsequent physical performance in basketball athletes. Future research should focus on longer periods of compression wear following fatiguing exercise.
Sleep is considered vital to human health and well-being, and is critical to physiological and cognitive functioning. Elite athletes experience high training and competition demands, and are often exposed to various factors, situations, and environments that can cause sleep impairments. Previous research has shown that athletes commonly experience sleep loss in the lead up to and following competition, which could have significant impacts on their preparation, performance, and recovery. In particular, the results from previous research show significant reductions in total sleep time (~1:40 h:min) and significant increases in sleep latency (~45 minutes) following evening competition. Napping is common in both the training and competition setting in athletes; however, research on the effect of napping on physiology and performance is limited. In contrast, research on strategies and interventions to improve sleep are increasing in the athletic population, with sleep hygiene research resulting in significant improvements in key sleep indices. This review investigates the physiological importance of sleep in athletes, current tools to monitor athletes’ sleep, the role of sleep for cognitive functioning and athletic performance, the prevalence of sleep disturbances and the potential mechanisms causing sleep disturbances, the role of napping, and different intervention strategies to improve sleep.
Introduction
Existing sleep questionnaires to assess sleep behaviors may not be sensitive in determining the unique sleep challenges faced by elite athletes. The purpose of the current study was to develop and validate the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ) to be used as a practical tool for support staff working with elite athletes.
Methods
564 participants (242 athletes, 322 non-athletes) completed the 18-item ASBQ and three previously validated questionnaires; the Sleep Hygiene Index (SHI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). A cohort of the studied population performed the ASBQ twice in one week to assess test-retest reliability, and also performed sleep monitoring via wrist-actigraphy.
Results
Comparison of the ASBQ with existing sleep questionnaires resulted in moderate to large correlations (r=0.32 - 0.69). There was a significant difference between athletes and non-athletes for the ASBQ global score (44±6 vs. 41±6, respectively, p<0.01) and for the PSQI, but not for the SHI or the ESS. The reliability of the ASBQ was acceptable (ICC=0.87) when re-tested within 7 days. There was a moderate relationship between ASBQ and total sleep time (r=-0.42).
Conclusion
The ASBQ is a valid and reliable tool that can differentiate the sleep practices between athletes and non-athletes, and offers a practical instrument for practitioners and/or researchers wanting to evaluate the sleep behaviors of elite athletes. The ASBQ may provide information on areas where improvements to individual athletes’ sleep habits could be made.
Stress hormone and sleep differences in a competition versus training setting are yet to be evaluated in elite female team-sport athletes. The aim of the current study was to evaluate salivary cortisol and perceptual stress markers during competition and training and to determine the subsequent effects on sleep indices in elite female athletes. Ten elite female netball athletes (mean ± SD; age: 23 ± 6 years) had their sleep monitored on three occasions; following one netball competition match (MATCH), one netball match simulation session (TRAIN), and one rest day (CONTROL). Perceived stress values and salivary cortisol were collected immediately pre- (17:15 pm) and post-session (19:30 pm), and at 22:00 pm. Sleep monitoring was performed using wrist actigraphy assessing total time in bed, total sleep time (TST), efficiency (SE%), latency, sleep onset time and wake time. Cortisol levels were significantly higher (p < .01) immediately post MATCH compared with TRAIN and CONTROL (mean ± SD; 0.700 ± 0.165, 0.178 ± 0.127 and 0.157 ± 0.178 μg/dL, respectively) and at 22:00 pm (0.155 ± 0.062, 0.077 ± 0.063, and 0.089 ± 0.083 μg/dL, respectively). There was a significant reduction in TST (−118 ± 112 min, p < .01) and SE (−7.7 ± 8.5%, p < .05) following MATCH vs. TRAIN. Salivary cortisol levels were significantly higher, and sleep quantity and quality were significantly reduced, following competition when compared to training and rest days.
The current study aimed to assess the validity and test-retest reliability of a linear position transducer when compared to a force plate through a counter-movement jump in female participants. Twenty-seven female recreational athletes (19 ± 2 years) performed three counter-movement jumps simultaneously using the linear position transducer and force plate for validity. In addition, 11 elite female athletes (23 ± 6 years) performed 3 counter-movement jumps with the linear position transducer on three separate days for test-retest reliability. Pearson correlations for jump height between the devices were at a high level (r = .90), with the linear position transducer overestimating jump height by 7.0 ± 2.8 cm. The reliability measured by the linear position transducer resulted in a mean intraclass correlation of .70 for jump height, .90 for peak velocity, and .91 for mean velocity. The linear position transducer was reliable for measuring counter-movement jumps in elite female athletes; however, caution should be taken for one-off jump measures as it may overestimate jump height.
Actigraphy has become a common method of measuring sleep due to its non-invasive, cost-effective nature. An actigraph (Readiband™) that utilizes automatic scoring algorithms has been used in the research, but is yet to be evaluated for its inter-device reliability. A total of 77 nights of sleep data from 11 healthy adult participants was collected while participants were concomitantly wearing two Readiband™ actigraphs attached together (ACT1 and ACT2). Sleep indices including total sleep time (TST), sleep latency (SL), sleep efficiency (SE%), wake after sleep onset (WASO), total time in bed (TTB), wake episodes per night (WE), sleep onset variance (SOV) and wake variance (WV) were assessed between the two devices using mean differences, 95% levels of agreement, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), typical error of measurement (TEM) and coefficient of variation (CV%) analysis. There were no significant differences between devices for any of the measured sleep variables (p>0.05). TST, SE, SL, TTB, SOV and WV all resulted in very high ICC's (>0.90), with WASO and WE resulting in high ICC's between devices (0.85 and 0.80, respectively). Mean differences of −2.1 and 0.2min for TST and SL were associated with a low TEM between devices (9.5 and 3.8min, respectively). SE resulted in a 0.3% mean difference between devices. The Readiband™ is a reliable tool for researchers using multiple devices of this brand in sleep studies to assess basic measures of sleep quality and quantity in healthy adult populations.
Key Points Central fatigue is accepted as a contributor to overall athletic performance, yet little research directly investigates post-exercise recovery strategies targeting the brain
Current post-exercise recovery strategies likely impact on the brain through a range of mechanisms, but improvements to these strategies is needed
Research is required to optimize post-exercise recovery with a focus on the brain
Post-exercise recovery has largely focused on peripheral mechanisms of fatigue, but there is growing acceptance that fatigue is also contributed to through central mechanisms which demands that attention should be paid to optimizing recovery of the brain. In this narrative review we assemble evidence for the role that many currently utilized recovery strategies may have on the brain, as well as potential mechanisms for their action. The review provides discussion of how common nutritional strategies as well as physical modalities and methods to reduce mental fatigue are likely to interact with the brain, and offer an opportunity for subsequent improved performance. We aim to highlight the fact that many recovery strategies have been designed with the periphery in mind, and that refinement of current methods are likely to provide improvements in minimizing brain fatigue. Whilst we offer a number of recommendations, it is evident that there are many opportunities for improving the research, and practical guidelines in this area.
Sensory isolation in a flotation tank is a method known for inducing deep relaxation and subsequent positive health effects for patients suffering from e.g. stress or muscle tensions pains. Very few studies have investigated this method as a preventive health-care intervention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects in healthy participants after receiving a series of flotation tank treatment.
Sixty-five participants (14 men and 51 women) who were all part of a cooperative-health project initiated by their individual companies, were randomized to either a wait-list control group or a flotation tank treatment group where they participated in a seven weeks flotation program with a total of twelve flotation sessions. Questionnaires measuring psychological and physiological variables such as stress and energy, depression and anxiety, optimism, pain, stress, sleep quality, mindfulness, and degree of altered states of consciousness were used. Data were analysed by two-way mixed MANOVA and repeated measures ANOVA.
Stress, depression, anxiety, and worst pain were significantly decreased whereas optimism and sleep quality significantly increased for the flotation-REST group. No significant results for the control group were seen. There was also a significant correlation between mindfulness in daily life and degree of altered states of consciousness during the relaxation in the flotation tank.
It was concluded that flotation-REST has beneficial effects on relatively healthy participants.
Trial registration
Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12613000483752.
In this study we investigated the value of flotation Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) as a stress-management tool. We focused on the physiological effects of REST, its influence on well-being, and on performance. Twenty-seven studies published in 25 articles or book chapters were included in a meta-analysis. The total number of participants was 449, with a mean age of 29 years (ranging between 20 and 45). Sixty-four percent was male and 36% was female. The results showed that REST has positive effects on physiology (e.g., lower levels of cortisol, lower blood pressure), well-being, and performance. The pre–post mean effect size and the overall randomized control group effect size were relatively strong. This suggests that despite some limitations of the original studies, flotation REST can be a useful stress management tool in addition to or instead of other stress management tools.
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a familiar experience for the elite or novice athlete. Symptoms can range from muscle tenderness to severe debilitating pain. The mechanisms, treatment strategies, and impact on athletic performance remain uncertain, despite the high incidence of DOMS. DOMS is most prevalent at the beginning of the sporting season when athletes are returning to training following a period of reduced activity. DOMS is also common when athletes are first introduced to certain types of activities regardless of the time of year. Eccentric activities induce micro-injury at a greater frequency and severity than other types of muscle actions. The intensity and duration of exercise are also important factors in DOMS onset. Up to six hypothesised theories have been proposed for the mechanism of DOMS, namely: lactic acid, muscle spasm, connective tissue damage, muscle damage, inflammation and the enzyme efflux theories. However, an integration of two or more theories is likely to explain muscle soreness. DOMS can affect athletic performance by causing a reduction in joint range of motion, shock attenuation and peak torque. Alterations in muscle sequencing and recruitment patterns may also occur, causing unaccustomed stress to be placed on muscle ligaments and tendons. These compensatory mechanisms may increase the risk of further injury if a premature return to sport is attempted.
A number of treatment strategies have been introduced to help alleviate the severity of DOMS and to restore the maximal function of the muscles as rapidly as possible. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have demonstrated dosage-dependent effects that may also be influenced by the time of administration. Similarly, massage has shown varying results that may be attributed to the time of massage application and the type of massage technique used. Cryotherapy, stretching, homeopathy, ultrasound and electrical current modalities have demonstrated no effect on the alleviation of muscle soreness or other DOMS symptoms. Exercise is the most effective means of alleviating pain during DOMS, however the analgesic effect is also temporary. Athletes who must train on a daily basis should be encouraged to reduce the intensity and duration of exercise for 1–2 days following intense DOMS-inducing exercise. Alternatively, exercises targeting less affected body parts should be encouraged in order to allow the most affected muscle groups to recover. Eccentric exercises or novel activities should be introduced progressively over a period of 1 or 2 weeks at the beginning of, or during, the sporting season in order to reduce the level of physical impairment and/or training disruption. There are still many unanswered questions relating to DOMS, and many potential areas for future research.
Flotation restricted environmental stimulation technique (R.E.S.T.) involves compromising senses of sound, sight, and touch by creating a quiet, dark environment. The individual lies supine in a tank of Epsom salt and water heated to roughly skin temperature (34-35oC). This study was performed to determine if a one hour flotation R.E.S.T. session would aid in the recovery process following maximal eccentric knee extensions and flexions. Twenty-four untrained male students (23.29 ± 2.1 yr, 184.17 ± 6.85 cm, 85.16 ± 11.54 kg) participated in a randomized repeated measures cross-over study. The participants completed two exercise and recovery protocols: a one hour flotation R.E.S.T. session and a one hour seated control (passive recovery). After isometric muscle strength testing, participants were fatigued with eccentric isokinetic muscle contractions (50 repetitions at 60o/sec) of the non-dominant knee extensors and flexors. Blood lactate, blood glucose, heart rate, OMNI-rating of perceived exertion (OMNI-RPE), perceived pain, muscle soreness and isometric strength were collected before exercise, post-treatment, and 24 and 48 hours later. A multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) found that treatment had a significant main effect on blood lactate, while subsequent univariate ANOVAs found statistical significance with the immediate post treatment blood lactate measures. The results indicate flotation R.E.S.T. appears to have a significant impact on blood lactate and perceived pain compared to a one hour passive recovery session in untrained healthy males. No difference was found between conditions for muscle strength, blood glucose, muscle soreness, heart rate, or OMNI-RPE. Flotation R.E.S.T. may be utilized for recreational and professional athletes to help reduce blood lactate levels after eccentric exercise.
This study aimed to investigate long-term effects of the flotation-REST (restricted environmental stimulation technique) 4 months after treatment. Seventy patients, 54 women and 16 men, participated, diagnosed as having stress-related pain. Twenty-six participants had also the diagnosis of burnout depression. Participants were randomly assigned in equal numbers to either a control group or a flotation-REST group and participated in a total of 12 flotation-REST or control sessions. Results indicated that pain areas, stress, anxiety, and depression decreased, whereas sleep quality, optimism, and prolactin increased. Positive effects generally maintained 4 months after treatment, but prolactin returned to initial levels. It was concluded that flotation tank therapy is an effective method for the treatment of stress-related pain. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
The focus of this study was to investigate experiences gained from treatment combining relaxation in flotation tank with psychotherapy for sufferers from "burn-out syndrome". Six people participated in a ten week program. They were all interviewed; the data were analyzed using the Empirical Phenomenological Psychological method. Five themes emerged: (a) direct experiences during flotation, (b) effects due to the treatment sessions, (c) psychological transformation, (d) reflections about the treatment program, and (e) demanding and rewarding psychological process over time. All participants went through psychological transformations and improvements in quality of life. At the end of the treatment program, all participants were able continue working full time. This combined program seems to be more therapeutically beneficial than flotation tank treatment alone.
Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST), which involves placing an individual into an environment of severely reduced stimulation for brief periods, has been subjectively reported to produce deep relaxation. The present study determines the effects of REST-assisted relaxation on plasma cortisol, ACTH, and luteinizing hormone (LH). These parameters were also measured in a group exposed to a similar relaxation paradigm, but without REST (non-REST). Each subject experienced two baseline sessions (1 and 2), four REST (or non-REST) relaxation sessions (3, 4, 5, 6), and two follow-up sessions (7 and 8). Pre- and postsession plasma hormone levels were measured in sessions 1, 2, 5, and 8. Both REST and non-REST subjects reported that the experience was relaxing. During the treatment period (session 5) pre- to postsession changes in cortisol and ACTH, but not in LH, were significantly greater for the REST group than for the non-REST group. Plasma cortisol level also decreased across sessions in the REST group, with levels in sessions 5 and 8 significantly lower than the baseline (sessions 1 and 2). Non-Rest subjects showed no change in plasma cortisol across sessions. No significant change in plasma ACTH or LH occurred across sessions in the REST or non-REST groups, although ACTH showed a decreasing trend. These data demonstrate that repeated brief REST-assisted relaxation produces a relaxation state associated with specific decreases in pituitary-adrenal axis activity.
Elastic band assisted and resisted jump training may be a novel way to develop lower-body power. The purpose of this investigation was to (a) determine the kinetic differences between assisted, free, and resisted countermovement jumps and (b), investigate the effects of contrast training using either assisted, free, or resisted countermovement jump training on vertical jump performance in well-trained athletes. In part 1, 8 recreationally trained men were assessed for force output, relative peak power (PP·kg(-1)) and peak velocity during the 3 types of jump. The highest peak force was achieved in the resisted jump method, while PP·kg(-1) and peak velocity were greatest in the assisted jump. Each type of jump produced a different pattern of maximal values of the variables measured, which may have implications for developing separate components of muscular power. In part 2, 28 professional rugby players were assessed for vertical jump height before and after 4 weeks of either assisted (n = 9), resisted (n = 11), or free (n = 8) countermovement jump training. Relative to changes in the control group (1.3 ± 9.2%, mean ± SD), there were clear small improvements in jump height in the assisted (6.7 ± 9.6%) and the resisted jump training group (4.0 ± 8.8%). Elastic band assisted and resisted jump training are both effective methods for improving jump height and can be easily implemented into current training programs via contrast training methods or as a part of plyometric training sessions. Assisted and resisted jump training is recommended for athletes in whom explosive lower-body movements such as jumping and sprinting are performed as part of competition.
Sleep disturbances are a common and bothersome symptom of fibromyalgia (FM). This study reports psychometric properties of a single-item scale to assess sleep quality among individuals with FM.
Analyses were based on data from two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of pregabalin (studies 1056 and 1077). In a daily diary, patients reported the quality of their sleep on a numeric rating scale ranging from 0 ("best possible sleep") to 10 ("worst possible sleep"). Test re-test reliability of the Sleep Quality Scale was evaluated by computing intraclass correlation coefficients. Pearson correlation coefficients were computed between baseline Sleep Quality scores and baseline pain diary and Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep scores. Responsiveness to treatment was evaluated by standardized effect sizes computed as the difference between least squares mean changes in Sleep Quality scores in the pregabalin and placebo groups divided by the standard deviation of Sleep Quality scores across all patients at baseline.
Studies 1056 and 1077 included 748 and 745 patients, respectively. Most patients were female (study 1056: 94.4%; study 1077: 94.5%) and white (study 1056: 90.2%; study 1077: 91.0%). Mean ages were 48.8 years (study 1056) and 50.1 years (study 1077). Test re-test reliability coefficients of the Sleep Quality Scale were 0.91 and 0.90 in the 1056 and 1077 studies, respectively. Pearson correlation coefficients between baseline Sleep Quality scores and baseline pain diary scores were 0.64 (p < 0.001) and 0.58 (p < 0.001) in the 1056 and 1077 studies, respectively. Correlations between the Sleep Quality Scale and the MOS Sleep subscales were statistically significant (p < 0.01), except for the MOS Snoring subscale. Across both studies, standardized effect sizes were generally moderate (0.46 to 0.52) for the 300 mg group and moderate (0.59) or moderate-to-large (0.70) for the 450 mg group. In study 1056, the effect size for the 600 mg group was moderate-to-large (0.73). In study 1077, the effect size for the 600 mg group was large (0.82).
These results provide evidence of the reproducibility, convergent validity, and responsiveness to treatment of the Sleep Quality Scale and provide a foundation for its further use and evaluation in FM patients.
Thirty-one patients suffering from chronic tension headache participated in one of four procedures, each of which comprised two one-and-one-half hour sessions per week for 4 weeks. The conditions were: Chamber/Control (both weekly sessions lying on a bed in a dimly-lit room), and three active treatment procedures: Chamber/Tank, one session as above, the other floating in a dark, silent REST tank; Chamber/Relaxation, one as above, one doing progressive muscle relaxation exercises; and Tank/Relaxation, one session floating and one doing progressive muscle relaxation. By 6 months after the end of treatment, complete data had been obtained from 20 subjects. There was a significant overall decrease in headache reports; the active treatment groups collapsed improved significantly more than the control group. At the 6-month followup, the treatment groups showed continuing improvement (57% over end of treatment for the Tank-Relaxation group and a mean of 25% for the other two), whereas the control group had deteriorated by 34% since end of treatment. Clinical improvements were comparable to those of more time- and effort-consuming relaxation therapies, and confirm the usefulness of REST as a long-lasting and versatile treatment in behavioral health.
The relationship between exercise and anxiety has been extensively examined over the last 15 years. Three separate meta-analysis were conducted to quantitatively review the exercise-anxiety literature for state anxiety, trait anxiety and psychophysiological correlates of anxiety. Such a procedure allows tendencies of the research to be characterised. The results substantiate the claim that exercise is associated with reductions in anxiety, but only for aerobic forms of exercise. These effects were generally independent of both subject (i.e. age and health status) and descriptive characteristics. Numerous design characteristics were different, but these differences were not uniform across the 3 meta-analyses. For state anxiety, exercise was associated with reduced anxiety, but had effects similar to other known anxiety-reducing treatments (e.g. relaxation). The trait anxiety meta-analysis revealed that random assignment was important for achieving larger effects when compared to the use of intact groups. Training programmes also need to exceed 10 weeks before significant changes in trait anxiety occur. For psychophysiological correlates, cardiovascular measures of anxiety (e.g. blood pressure, heart rate) yielded significantly smaller effects than did other measures (e.g. EMG, EEG). The only variable that was significant across all 3 meta-analyses was exercise duration. Exercise of at least 21 minutes seems necessary to achieve reductions in state and trait anxiety, but there were variables confounding this relationship. As such, it remains to be seen what the minimum duration is necessary for anxiety reduction. Although exercise offers therapeutic benefits for reducing anxiety without the dangers or costs of drug therapy or psychotherapy, it remains to be determined precisely why exercise is associated with reductions in anxiety. Since several mechanisms may be operating simultaneously, future research should be designed with the idea of testing interactions between these mechanisms.
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of restricted environmental stimulation using a flotation tank (Flotation REST) to the effects of a normal sensory environment on relaxation. All of the subjects were first introduced to a simple relaxation program to be used during the experimental sessions. The program consisted of guided point-to-point relaxation, breathing techniques, and visual imagery techniques. Subjects were then pre-tested on measurements of electromyogram (EMG), galvanic skin response (GSR), peripheral skin temperature, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The experimental group experienced ten 45-minute sessions practicing the relaxation program in a Flotation REST environment. The control subjects practiced the same relaxation program in a similar body position for 45 minutes in a normal sensory environment. All subjects answered a five-question Subjective Relaxation Questionnaire on trials five through ten and were then post-tested on EMG, GSR, skin temperature, and blood pressure. The results indicated significant differences between groups from pre-test to post-test on systolic and diastolic blood pressure; the experimental group showed greater reductions. Significant differences also were observed on three of five questions on the Subjective Relaxation Questionnaire; the experimental group reported greater subjective relaxation and trends in a similar direction on the remaining two questions. The results of this study indicate that flotation REST enhances point-to-point relaxation, breathing techniques, and visual imagery techniques and, when combined with these techniques, can be an effective means of teaching normal subjects to lower systolic and diastolic pressure and heighten their subjective perception of relaxation.
Cryotherapy is an effective treatment for acute sports injury to soft tissue, although the effect of cryotherapy on exercise-induced muscle damage is unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of cold water immersion on the symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage following strenuous eccentric exercise. After performing a bout of damage-inducing eccentric exercise (eight sets of five maximal reciprocal contractions at 0.58 rad x s(-1)) of the elbow flexors on an isokinetic dynamometer, 15 females aged 22.0+/-2.0 years (mean +/- s) were allocated to a control group (no treatment, n = 7) or a cryotherapy group (n = 8). Subjects in the cryotherapy group immersed their exercised arm in cold water (15 degrees C) for 15 min immediately after eccentric exercise and then every 12 h for 15 min for a total of seven sessions. Muscle tenderness, plasma creatine kinase activity, relaxed elbow angle, isometric strength and swelling (upper arm circumference) were measured immediately before and for 3 days after eccentric exercise. Analysis of variance revealed significant (P < 0.05) main effects for time for all variables, with increases in muscle tenderness, creatine kinase activity and upper arm circumference, and decreases in isometric strength and relaxed elbow angle. There were significant interactions (P<0.05) of group x time for relaxed elbow angle and creatine kinase activity. Relaxed elbow angle was greater and creatine kinase activity lower for the cryotherapy group than the controls on days 2 and 3 following the eccentric exercise. We conclude that although cold water immersion may reduce muscle stiffness and the amount of post-exercise damage after strenuous eccentric activity, there appears to be no effect on the perception of tenderness and strength loss, which is characteristic after this form of activity.
Recovery from exercise can be an important factor in performance during repeated bouts of exercise. In a tournament situation, where athletes may compete numerous times over a few days, enhancing recovery may provide a competitive advantage. One method that is gaining popularity as a means to enhance post-game or post-training recovery is immersion in water. Much of the literature on the ability of water immersion as a means to improve athletic recovery appears to be based on anecdotal information, with limited research on actual performance change. Water immersion may cause physiological changes within the body that could improve recovery from exercise. These physiological changes include intracellular-intravascular fluid shifts, reduction of muscle oedema and increased cardiac output (without increasing energy expenditure), which increases blood flow and possible nutrient and waste transportation through the body. Also, there may be a psychological benefit to athletes with a reduced cessation of fatigue during immersion. Water temperature alters the physiological response to immersion and cool to thermoneutral temperatures may provide the best range for recovery. Further performance-orientated research is required to determine whether water immersion is beneficial to athletes.
Sleep is an important determinant of collegiate athlete health, well-being and performance. However, collegiate athlete social and physical environments are often not conducive to obtaining restorative sleep. Traditionally, sleep has not been a primary focus of collegiate athletic training and is neglected due to competing academic, athletic and social demands. Collegiate athletics departments are well positioned to facilitate better sleep culture for their athletes. Recognising the lack of evidence-based or consensus-based guidelines for sleep management and restorative sleep for collegiate athletes, the National Collegiate Athletic Association hosted a sleep summit in 2017. Members of the Interassociation Task Force on Sleep and Wellness reviewed current data related to collegiate athlete sleep and aimed to develop consensus recommendations on sleep management and restorative sleep using the Delphi method. In this paper, we provide a narrative review of four topics central to collegiate athlete sleep: (1) sleep patterns and disorders among collegiate athletes; (2) sleep and optimal functioning among athletes; (3) screening, tracking and assessment of athlete sleep; and (4) interventions to improve sleep. We also present five consensus recommendations for colleges to improve their athletes’ sleep.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to examine the criterion and construct validity of an isometric mid-thigh pull dynamometer to assess whole body strength in professional rugby league players.
Methods:
Fifty-six male rugby league players, (33 senior and 23 youth professional players) performed four isometric mid-thigh pull efforts (i.e. two on the dynamometer and two on the force platform) in a randomised and counterbalanced order.
Results:
Isometric peak force was underestimated (P<0.05) using the dynamometer compared to the force platform (95% LoA: -213.5 ± 342.6 N). Linear regression showed that peak force derived from the dynamometer explained 85% (adjusted R(2) = 0.85, SEE = 173 N) of the variance in the dependent variable, with the following prediction equation derived: predicted peak force = [1.046 * dynamometer peak force] + 117.594. Cross-validation revealed a non-significant bias (P>0.05) between the predicted and peak force from the force platform, and an adjusted R(2) (79.6%), that represented shrinkage of 0.4% relative to the cross-validation model (80%). Peak force was greater for the senior compared to youth professionals using the dynamometer (2261.2 ± 222 cf. 1725.1 ± 298.0 N, respectively; P<0.05).
Conclusion:
The isometric mid-thigh pull assessed using a dynamometer underestimates criterion peak force but is capable of distinguishing muscle function characteristics between professional rugby league players of different standards.
Relaxation techniques and napping are very popular strategies amongst elite athletes recovering from the psychophysiological demands of training and competition. The current study examined a novel relaxation technique using restricted environmental stimulation therapy in a flotation tank (FLOAT). FLOAT involves reducing the level of environmental stimulation while achieving a sense of near weightlessness through floating in an enclosed, warm, saline-dense water tank. Sixty elite, international-level athletes (28 male, 32 female) across a range of 9 sports, completed a ∼45 min FLOAT session following exercise training for their sport. Pre and post FLOAT, athletes filled out a multidimensional mood-state questionnaire (MDMQ) containing 16 mood-state variables as well as a question on perceived muscle soreness. Group data were analysed for pre to post FLOAT for all measured variables. Further analyses were performed on all variables for athletes that napped during FLOAT (n = 27) and compared to those that did not nap (n = 33). A single FLOAT session significantly enhanced 15 of the 16 mood-state variables (p < 0.05) and also lowered perceived muscle soreness (p < 0.01). Small (n = 3) to moderate (n = 6) effect sizes in favour of napping for 9 of the 16 mood-state variables were found when compared to the no nap group. FLOAT may be an effective tool for both physical and psychological recovery following training in elite athletes. Furthermore, napping in combination with FLOAT may provide additional benefits to enhance certain mood-state variables. This study serves as a pilot study for future research into the performance recovery of elite athletes following FLOAT.
THE CLEAN PULL AND SNATCH PULL ARE EXERCISES THAT USE THE DOUBLE KNEE BEND AND TRIPLE EXTENSION INVOLVED IN WEIGHTLIFTING MOVEMENTS. AS A RESULT, THESE PULLING MOVEMENTS ARE USED WITH THE PURPOSE OF MAKING AN ATHLETE MORE EFFICIENT AT PRODUCING FORCE WITH AN OVERLOAD STIMULUS. IN ADDITION, THESE EXERCISES CAN BE USED AS A TEACHING MODALITY FOR THE PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FULL CLEAN OR SNATCH.
The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of the recently developed Basketball Exercise Simulation Test (BEST). Ten semiprofessional (age, 22.7 ± 6.1 years; height, 189.6 ± 9.5 cm; weight, 86.5 ± 18.7 kg; % body fat, 14.7 ± 3.5%) and 10 recreational (age, 26.6 ± 4.0 years; height, 185.9 ± 7.9 cm; weight, 92.6 ± 8.4 kg; % body fat, 23.8 ± 6.3%) male basketball players volunteered for the study. The participants completed a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (Yo-Yo IRT) and BEST trial midway through the playing season. Eight participants (semiprofessional, n = 4; recreational, n = 4) completed an additional Yo-Yo IRT and BEST trial at the end of the playing season. Performance measures from the BEST included sprint decrement (%), mean sprint and circuit time (seconds), and total distance covered (m). Construct validity was calculated using Student's unpaired t-tests to identify the differences in Yo-Yo IRT and BEST performances between playing levels. Longitudinal validity was determined based on the relationship between changes (%) in Yo-Yo IRT1 and BEST performances across the season. Semiprofessional players performed significantly (p < 0.01) better in the Yo-Yo IRT (1,283 ± 62 vs. 636 ± 297 m) and BEST (mean sprint time: 1.45 ± 0.01 vs. 1.65 ± 0.03 seconds; mean circuit time: 18.98 ± 1.79 vs. 22.72 ± 2.01 seconds; sprint decrement: 8.54 ± 0.15 vs. 15.38 ± 0.27%) compared with recreational players. For the group as a whole, a strong relationship was evident between the changes in BEST sprint decrement and changes in Yo-Yo IRT performance (R = -0.815, p = 0.014) across the season. In conclusion, the BEST displayed both discriminative and longitudinal validities and provides a novel match-specific fitness test for basketball players.
This study compared changes in bodily pain, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and psychological symptoms during an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program among groups of participants with different chronic pain conditions.
From 1997-2003, a longitudinal investigation of chronic pain patients (n=133) was nested within a larger prospective cohort study of heterogeneous patients participating in MBSR at a university-based Integrative Medicine center. Measures included the Short-Form 36 Health Survey and Symptom Checklist-90-Revised. Paired t tests were used to compare pre-post changes on outcome measures. Differences in treatment effect sizes were compared as a function of chronic pain condition. Correlations were examined between outcome parameters and home meditation practice.
Outcomes differed in significance and magnitude across common chronic pain conditions. Diagnostic subgroups of patients with arthritis, back/neck pain, or two or more comorbid pain conditions demonstrated a significant change in pain intensity and functional limitations due to pain following MBSR. Participants with arthritis showed the largest treatment effects for HRQoL and psychological distress. Patients with chronic headache/migraine experienced the smallest improvement in pain and HRQoL. Patients with fibromyalgia had the smallest improvement in psychological distress. Greater home meditation practice was associated with improvement on several outcome measures, including overall psychological distress, somatization symptoms, and self-rated health, but not pain and other quality of life scales.
MBSR treatment effects on pain, HRQoL and psychological well-being vary as a function of chronic pain condition and compliance with home meditation practice.
Full textFull text is available as a scanned copy of the original print version. Get a printable copy (PDF file) of the complete article (136K), or click on a page image below to browse page by page. Links to PubMed are also available for Selected References.
124
Selected References
These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.
Maxwell C. Sensitivity and accuracy of the visual analogue scale: a psycho-physical classroom experiment. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1978 Jul;6(1):15–24. [PMC free article] [PubMed]
Two basic diagnostic features of myofascial trigger points (TPs), namely, local tenderness and alteration of tissue consistency (such as in taut bands, muscle spasm), can be documented quantitatively by simple hand-held instruments. A pressure threshold meter (algometer) assists in location of TPs and their relative sensitivity. A side-to-side difference exceeding 2kg in comparison with normal values indicates pathologic tenderness. The effect of treatment can be quantified. Pressure tolerance, measured over normal muscles and shin bones, expresses pain sensitivity. Myopathy is suspected if muscle tolerance drops below bone tolerance. Tissue compliance measurement documents objectively and quantitatively alteration in soft tissue consistency. Muscle spasm, tension, spasticity, taut bands, scar tissues, or fibrositic nodules can be documented. The universal clinical dynamometer is used as part of a physical examination to quantify weakness. Thermography (heat imaging) demonstrates discoid shaped hot spots over TPs. Muscle activity, spasm, or contraction is visualized as increased heat emission in the shape of the active muscle.
Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) has been useful in treating a variety of health-related problems, including obesity and cigarette smoking. The pilot project described in this paper used 24 hr of REST (darkness and silence) with four patients suffering from essential hypertension. Long-term changes have included lower blood pressure, a reduced need for medication, and improved coping with stressful life events.
Understanding of the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnoea, a common yet relatively newly recognised condition, has advanced rapidly in recent years. This condition produces major acute haemodynamic changes and causal relationships with arterial hypertension and cardiovascular morbidity have been proposed. The role that the autonomic nervous system plays in mediating these cardiovascular changes has been the focus of intensive research activity and the development of new techniques in physiological monitoring, such as spectral analysis of heart rate variability, Finapres blood pressure monitoring, measurement of muscle sympathetic nerve activity, radionuclide tests and animal models of obstructive sleep apnoea have substantially increased the knowledge base. The acute haemodynamic changes are associated with high levels of sympathetic discharge and with fluctuating parasympathetic activity. There are also chronic changes in baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflexes associated with an increase in baseline daytime sympathetic activity and abnormal vagal reflex responses to voluntary respiratory manoeuvres. These acute autonomic changes appear to be provoked by a combination of stimuli triggered by hypoxaemia, upper airway responses, ventilatory changes and arousal. The mechanisms of the chronic autonomic changes are less clear; it is likely that recurrent hypoxaemia is important, but the roles of recurrent ventilatory stress and arousal are not clear. Normalising respiration with CPAP therapy prevents the acute cardiovascular changes and reduces the acute sympathetic over-activity, and in compliant patients, restores abnormal vagal responses to normal and reduces excess chronic sympathetic activity. Whether or not this produces a reduction in long term cardiovascular morbidity is not established.
This study compared the psychological effects of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and yoga stretching (hatha) exercises. Forty participants were randomly divided into two groups and taught PMR or yoga stretching exercises. Both groups practiced once a week for five weeks and were given the Smith Relaxation States Inventory before and after each session. As hypothesized, practitioners of PMR displayed higher levels of relaxation states (R-States) Physical Relaxation and Disengagement at Week 4 and higher levels of Mental Quiet and Joy as a posttraining aftereffect at Week 5. Contrary to what was hypothesized, groups did not display different levels of R-States Energized or Aware. Results suggest the value of supplementing traditional somatic conceptualizations of relaxation with the psychological approach embodied in ABC relaxation theory. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether endurance cycling performance and postexercise muscle damage were altered when consuming a carbohydrate and protein beverage (CHO+P; 7.3% and 1.8% concentrations) versus a carbohydrate-only (CHO; 7.3%) beverage.
Fifteen male cyclists (mean (.-)VO(2peak) = 52.6 +/- 10.3 mL x kg x min) rode a cycle ergometer at 75% (.-)VO(2peak) to volitional exhaustion, followed 12 - 15 h later by a second ride to exhaustion at 85% (.-)VO(2peak). Subjects consumed 1.8 mL x kg BW of randomly assigned CHO or CHO+P beverage every 15 min of exercise, and 10 mL x kg BW immediately after exercise. Beverages were matched for carbohydrate content, resulting in 20% lower total caloric content per administration of CHO beverage. Subjects were blinded to treatment beverage and repeated the same protocol seven to 14 d later with the other beverage.
In the first ride (75% (.-)VO(2peak)), subjects rode 29% longer (P < 0.05) when consuming the CHO+P beverage (106.3 +/- 45.2 min) than the CHO beverage (82.3 +/- 32.6 min). In the second ride (85% (.-)VO(2peak)), subjects performed 40% longer when consuming the CHO+P beverage (43.6 +/- 12.5 min) than when consuming the CHO beverage (31.2 +/- 8.7 min). Peak postexercise plasma CPK levels, indicative of muscle damage, were 83% lower after the CHO+P trial (216.3 +/- 122.0 U x L) than the CHO trial (1318.1 +/- 1935.6 U x L). There were no significant differences in exercising levels of (.-)VO(2), ventilation, heart rate, RPE, blood glucose, or blood lactate between treatments in either trial.
A carbohydrate beverage with additional protein calories produced significant improvements in time to fatigue and reductions in muscle damage in endurance athletes. Further research is necessary to determine whether these effects were the result of higher total caloric content of the CHO+P beverage or due to specific protein-mediated mechanisms.
This manuscript discusses the physiology of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The following topics are presented: regulation of activity; efferent pathways; sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions; neurotransmitters, their receptors and the termination of their activity; functions of the ANS; and the adrenal medullae. In addition, the application of this material to the practice of pharmacy is of special interest. Two case studies regarding insecticide poisoning and pheochromocytoma are included. The ANS and the accompanying case studies are discussed over 5 lectures and 2 recitation sections during a 2-semester course in Human Physiology. The students are in the first-professional year of the doctor of pharmacy program.
Ultrastructural changes after concentric and eccentric contractions of human muscle
- D J Newham
- G Mcphail
- K R Mills
- R H T Edwards
Newham, D. J., McPhail, G., Mills, K. R., & Edwards, R. H. T. (1983). Ultrastructural
changes after concentric and eccentric contractions of human muscle. Journal
of the Neurological Sciences, 61(1), 109-122. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0022-510x(83)90058-8
Performance Enhancement & Health xxx (xxxx) xxx 9
- V Broderick
- L Uiga
- M Driller
V. Broderick, L. Uiga and M. Driller / Performance Enhancement & Health xxx (xxxx) xxx
9
Restricted environmental stimulation therapy in the treatment of essential hypertension
- P Suedfeld
- C Roy
- P B Landon
Suedfeld, P., Roy, C., & Landon, P. B. (1982). Restricted environmental stimulation
therapy in the treatment of essential hypertension. Behaviour Research and
Therapy, 20(6), 553-559. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0005-7967(82)90033-x
G Model
PEH-100149; No. of Pages 9