Article

Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2021

January 2021
ACSMʼs Health & Fitness Journal 25(1):10-19

Authors:

Apply It! From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • Explain the differences between a fad and a trend • Use the worldwide fitness trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health fitness industry to further promote physical activity • Study expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2021

Health and Fitness Trends in the Post-COVID-19 Era in Turkey: A Cross-Sectional Study

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2024

Background: The health and fitness industry is evolving and appears to be a dynamic space for all involved stakeholders with great potential worldwide. Objectives: The purpose of this observational study was to identify the most popular health and fitness trends in Turkey for the first time after the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and to detect any potential differences in the recent results reported in other countries or regions. Methods: A national online survey was carried out, utilizing the methodology of similar international surveys conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine since 2007. Specifically, simple random sampling was used through a web-based questionnaire that was sent to 5,725 professionals who worked in the Turkish health and fitness industry. Results: A total of 505 responses was collected with a response rate of 8.8%. The 10 most popular health and fitness trends in Turkey in the post-COVID-19 era were exercised for weight loss, Pilates, strength training (free weights), body weight training, personal training, core training, boutique fitness studios, group training, functional fitness training, and high intensity interval training. The present results are fully aligned with those observed for the top health and fitness trends in various Southern European countries and the European region, demonstrating that trends related to technology and health are not yet popular nationwide. Conclusion: Such findings may help gym operators/managers, exercise professionals, training providers, and educators with making critical business decisions, educational and professional development opportunities, and novel exercise concepts to strengthen customer engagement, satisfaction, loyalty and retention through engaging fitness experiences in the post-COVID-19 era.

Health and Fitness Trends in the Post-COVID-19 Era in Turkey: A Cross-Sectional Study

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

Background. The health and fitness industry is evolving and appears to be a dynamic space for all involved stakeholders with great potential worldwide. Objectives. The purpose of this observational study was to identify the most popular health and fitness trends in Turkey for the first time after the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and to detect any potential differences with the recent results reported in other countries or regions. Methods. A national online survey was carried out, utilizing the methodology of similar international surveys conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine since 2007. Specifically, simple random sampling was used through a web-based questionnaire that was sent to 5,725 professionals who worked in the Turkish health and fitness industry. Results. A total of 505 responses was collected with a response rate of 8.8%. The 10 most popular health and fitness trends in Turkey in the post-COVID-19 era were exercised for weight loss, Pilates, strength training (free weights), body weight training, personal training, core training, boutique fitness studios, group training, functional fitness training, and high intensity interval training. The present results are fully aligned with those observed for the top health and fitness trends in various Southern European countries and the European region, demonstrating that trends related to technology and health are not yet popular nationwide. Conclusion. Such findings may help gym operators/managers, exercise professionals, training providers, and educators with making critical business decisions, educational and professional development opportunities, and novel exercise concepts to strengthen customer engagement, satisfaction, loyalty and retention through engaging fitness experiences in the post-COVID-19 era.

Effects of 12 Weeks of Interval Block Resistance Training Versus Circuit Resistance Training on Body Composition, Performance, and Autonomic Recovery in Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial

Article

Full-text available

May 2025

Objectives: Interval block resistance training (IBRT) and circuit resistance training (CRT) are periodization models aimed at enhancing neuromuscular and metabolic adaptations. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 12-week IBRT program compared to CRT on body composition, muscle strength, speed, functional capacity, and autonomic recovery in young Chilean adults. Methods: A randomized, parallel, double-blind study was conducted with 30 participants assigned to IBRT (n = 15) or CRT (n = 15). Assessments included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, right-hand grip strength, the running anaerobic sprint test (RAST), the 6 min walk test (6 MWT), and heart rate variability(HRV) indices: low-frequency to high-frequency ratio (LF/HF) and root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD, a time-domain HRV metric reflecting parasympathetic activity). Statistical analyses included t-tests and ANCOVA. Results: Groups were similar in age (IBRT: 25.2 ± 3.19; CRT: 23.27 ± 3.69, p = 0.14) and BMI (IBRT: 21.56 ± 2.22; CRT: 22.36 ± 1.70 kg/m2, p = 0.40). Both groups improved significantly in waist circumference (IBRT: −1.85%; CRT: −2.37%), grip strength (IBRT: +5.47%; CRT: +4.02%), RAST (IBRT:−2.67%; CRT: −1.04%), 6 MWT (IBRT: +4.53%; CRT: +2.17%), LF/HF (IBRT: −11.43%; CRT: −5.11%), and RMSSD (IBRT: +5.36%; CRT: +3.81%) (all p ≤ 0.01). IBRT produced significantly greater gains in 6 MWT (B = 19.51, 95% CI: 0.79 to 38.23, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Both IBRT and CRT effectively improved body composition, muscle strength, speed, functional capacity, and autonomic recovery. However, IBRT demonstrated a superior effect on aerobic capacity.

Online and supervised exercise improves physical performance: a study conducted during COVID-19

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2025
Sport Sci Health

Purpose COVID-19 has rampaged the world. Nowadays, a lot of people in Taiwan still experience working from home, as well as exercising from home (EFH) to maintain their physical health. This study aimed to investigate the difference in training efficacy by joining online workout courses and coach supervision. Methods Twenty participants were recruited in this study. The subjects were randomly divided into coach supervision and online training groups. A pretest was first conducted, followed by a post-test after 8 weeks of training intervention. The tests were to measure the participant’s body composition and sports performance, with the former including InBody body composition analysis, and the latter including the assessment of jumping ability, 20-m sprint, bench press, and squat performances. All tests were conducted at the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (Pingtung, Taiwan). The two-way mixed design measures ANOVA was applied for statistical measurement. If the correlation between the two factors was significant, the Bonferroni post hoc test will be applied to determine the main effects (α = 0.05). Results There was no significant difference between the two training groups (p = 0.130, p = 0.125, p = 0.319, p = 0.460). However, substantial differences were observed between the jumping ability (p = 0.000), bench press performance (p = 0.003), and squat performance (p = 0.000) of the pre- and post-tests in both groups, with the participants generally performing better in the latter case. In terms of body composition and muscle circumference, no significant changes were found between both tests (p > 0.05). Conclusion Participating online training courses at home is recommended when exercising outdoor is forbidden. Moreover, online training not only reduces the transmission of coronavirus, but also helps increase the physical activity in a safe environment.

The Best of Two Worlds to Promote Healthy Cognitive Aging: Definition and Classification Approach of Hybrid Physical Training Interventions (Preprint)

Preprint

Jan 2024

UNSTRUCTURED A healthy lifestyle can be an important prerequisite to prevent or at least delay the onset of dementia. However, the large number of physically inactive adults underscores the need for developing and evaluating intervention approaches aimed at improving adherence to a physically active lifestyle. In this regard, hybrid physical training, which usually combines center- and home-based physical exercise sessions and has proven successful in rehabilitative settings, could offer a promising approach to preserving cognitive health in the aging population. Despite its potential, research in this area is limited as hybrid physical training interventions have been underused in promoting healthy cognitive aging. Furthermore, the absence of a universally accepted definition or a classification framework for hybrid physical training interventions poses a challenge to future progress in this direction. To address this gap, this article informs the reader about hybrid physical training by providing a definition and classification approach of different types, discussing their specific advantages and disadvantages, and offering recommendations for future research. Specifically, we focus on applying digital technologies to deliver home-based exercises, as their use holds significant potential for reaching underserved and marginalized groups, such as older adults with mobility impairments living in rural areas.

The Best of Two Worlds to Promote Healthy Cognitive Aging: Definition and Classification Approach of Hybrid Physical Training Interventions

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2024

A healthy lifestyle can be an important prerequisite to prevent or at least delay the onset of dementia. However, the large number of physically inactive adults underscores the need for developing and evaluating intervention approaches aimed at improving adherence to a physically active lifestyle. In this regard, hybrid physical training, which usually combines center-and home-based physical exercise sessions and has proven successful in rehabilitative settings, could offer a promising approach to preserving cognitive health in the aging population. Despite its potential, research in this area is limited as hybrid physical training interventions have been underused in promoting healthy cognitive aging. Furthermore, the absence of a universally accepted definition or a classification framework for hybrid physical training interventions poses a challenge to future progress in this direction. To address this gap, this article informs the reader about hybrid physical training by providing a definition and classification approach of different types, discussing their specific advantages and disadvantages, and offering recommendations for future research. Specifically, we focus on applying digital technologies to deliver home-based exercises, as their use holds significant potential for reaching underserved and marginalized groups, such as older adults with mobility impairments living in rural areas.

Validity of Current Smartwatches for Triathlon Training: How Accurate Are Heart Rate, Distance, and Swimming Readings?

Preprint

Full-text available

Jun 2024

Smartwatches are one of the most relevant fitness trends of the past two decades, and they collect increasing amounts of health and movement data. The accuracy of these data may be questionable and requires further investigation. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to validate smartwatches for use in triathlon training. Ten different smartwatches were tested for accuracy in measuring heart rate, distance (via global navigation satellite systems, GNSS), swim stroke rates and the number of swim laps in a 50 m Olympic-size pool. The optical heart rate measurement function of each smartwatch was compared to that of a chest strap. Thirty participants (15 females, 15 males) ran five 3-minute intervals on a motorised treadmill to evaluate the accuracy of the heart rate measurements. Moreover, for each smartwatch, running und cycling distance tracking was tested over six runs of 4,000 m on a 400 m tartan stadium track, six hilly outdoor runs over 3.4 km, and four repetitions of a 36.8 km road bike course, respectively. Three swimming protocols ranging from 200 m to 400 m were performed in triplicate in a 50 m Olympic-size pool, evaluating tracked distance and detected number of strokes. The mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs) for the average heart rate measurements varied between 3.1% and 8.3%, with the coefficient of determination ranging from 0.22 to 0.79. MAPE results ranged from 0.8% to 12.1% for the 4,000 m run on the 400 m track, from 0.2% to 7.5% for the 3.4 km outdoor run, and from 0.0% to 4.2% for the 36.8 km bike ride. For the swimming tests, in contrast, the deviations from the true distance varied greatly, starting at a 0.0% MAPE for the 400 m freestyle and reaching 91.7% for the 200 m medley with style changes every 25 m. In summary, for some of the smartwatches, the measurement results deviated substantially from the true values. Measurements taken while road cycling over longer distances with only a few curves were in relative terms more accurate than for outdoor runs and even more accurate than for the 400 m track. In the swimming exercises, the accuracy of the measured distances was severely deteriorated by the medley changes among the majority of the smartwatches. Altogether, the results of this study should help in assessing the accuracy and thus suitability of smartwatches for general triathlon training.

Psychophysiological Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise over Menstrual Cycle Phases: An Exploratory Study

Article

Apr 2024
MED SCI SPORT EXER

Introduction: Although there is potential for the menstrual cycle to impact psychophysiological responses to exercise, there has been a paucity of studies investigating this aspect, specifically in the context of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Purpose: This exploratory study aimed to examine the psychophysiological responses to HIIT over the menstrual cycle. Methods: Twenty-three healthy and physically active young women were recruited. Each woman completed a cycle ergometer HIIT session in the menstrual, follicular, and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in a random order. Psychophysiological variables of interest were collected at baseline, and during and after exercise. Primary variables of interest were anxiety, mood, motivation, enjoyment, arousal, affect, and menstrual distress. Results: Higher pain, water retention, behavior change (related to social interactions, eating habits, and self-performance), and autonomic reactions (consisting of nausea, dizziness, hot flashes, and cold sweats) were observed before HIIT during the menstrual phase compared to the follicular phase (p < 0.05). Participants exhibited worse psychological responses to HIIT sessions during the menstrual phase, followed by the luteal phase. Findings also noted participants arrived to the laboratory with lower motivation to initiate HIIT sessions during the luteal and menstrual phases compared to the follicular phase. This difference was observed before and during HIIT. Motivation and depressive symptoms showed a significant reduction from pre-HIIT to post-HIIT (p < 0.05), regardless of menstrual phase. Conclusions: The findings revealed that the menstrual cycle had a significant impact on psychophysiological responses. Moreover, HIIT could be adopted to improve motivation and depressive symptoms, however, further research is needed to explore the effects of HIIT across the menstrual cycle in women with clinical depression.

Tendências do Fitness em Portugal para 2025Fitness trends in Portugal for 2025Tendencias de fitness en Portugal para 2025

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2025

Introdução: O mercado do Fitness é heterogéneo e competitivo, sendo que o conhecimento acerca das suas tendências pode ser importante para que os diversos stakeholders se ajustem. Objetivo: Identificar as tendências do Fitness em Portugal para 2025; comparar a opinião de grupos acerca das tendências considerando o sexo, título profissional, exercer ou não funções como profissional de fitness e confrontar os resultados portugueses de 2025 com os de 2024 e ainda com os resultados de Espanha e mundiais. Metodologia: Seguiu-se a metodologia do estudo do American College of Sports Medicine sobre as tendências mundiais do Fitness, sendo aplicado um questionário, online, com 51 tendências, a 554 profissionais de fitness, profissionais da saúde relacionados com o exercício e estudantes do setor. Resultados: O Top 5 das tendências do Fitness para 2025, em Portugal, é “Treino personalizado”, “Empregar profissionais de fitness certificados”, “Exercício para perda de peso”, “Pilates” e “Treino de força tradicional”. À exceção do “Pilates”, no Top 5, as restantes tendências mantiveram-se relativamente a 2024. Verificaram-se diferenças em 10 tendências entre títulos profissionais, 12 entre quem exerce ou não funções de profissionais de fitness e 30 entre sexos. As tendências do Fitness, portuguesas, apresentam maior similaridade com as de Espanha do que com as mundiais. Discussão: As principais tendências em Portugal valorizam o serviço de “Treino personalizado”, em primeiro lugar, e assumem alguma estabilidade em relação aos últimos anos. Conclusões: A especificidade do mercado português justifica a continuidade deste estudo e o contributo que pode dar para o crescimento do setor.

Are Wearable ECG Devices Ready for Hospital at Home Application?

Article

Full-text available

May 2025
SENSORS-BASEL

The increasing focus on improving care for high-cost patients has highlighted the potential of Hospital at Home (HaH) and remote patient monitoring (RPM) programs to optimize patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. This paper examines the role of wearable devices with electrocardiogram (ECG) capabilities for continuous cardiac monitoring, a crucial aspect for the timely detection and management of various cardiac conditions. The functionality of current wearable technology is scrutinized to determine its effectiveness in meeting clinical needs, employing a proposed ABCD guide (accuracy, benefit, compatibility, and data governance) for evaluation. While smartwatches show promise in detecting arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation, their broader diagnostic capabilities, including the potential for monitoring corrected QT (QTc) intervals during pharmacological interventions and approximating multi-lead ECG information for improved myocardial infarction detection, are also explored. Recent advancements in machine learning and deep learning for cardiac health monitoring are highlighted, alongside persistent challenges, particularly concerning signal quality and the need for further validation for widespread adoption in older adults and Hospital at Home settings. Ongoing improvements are necessary to overcome current limitations and fully realize the potential of wearable ECG technology in providing optimal care for high-risk patients.

Rate of perceived exertion and affectivity in body weight exercises in trained elderly people with cardiometabolic risk factors

Article

Full-text available

Apr 2025

One of the strategies to mitigate the deleterious effects of the aging process is body weight exercise. However, gaps remain regarding the appropriate progression and intensity, particularly in older adults with cardiometabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to analyze the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and affectivity associated with body weight exercise in older adults with cardiometabolic risk factors, considering different levels of complexity. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. The RPE was assessed using the OMNI-Res scale, and affectivity was measured using the Hardy and Rejeski scale. Multi-joint exercises (squat, push up, pull up) were performed using only body weight and categorized into hypothetical intensities (easy, medium, and difficult) based on complexity adjustments. No significant difference in RPE was found for squat (p=0.261) and push up (p=0.063). However, a significant increase in RPE was observed for the pull up exercise (p=0.001) between the easy and difficult, as well as the medium and difficult complexities. No difference in affectivity was observed for the squat exercise (p=0.008). In the push up exercise, a significant difference in affectivity was found between the easy and difficult complexities (p=0.004), while in the pull up exercise, differences were observed between the easy and difficult, as well as the medium and difficult complexities (p=0.003). Modifying the complexity of squat and push up exercises in trained older adults with cardiometabolic risk factors did not result in differences in perceived intensity. However, performing pull up exercises using the TRX may be an interesting alternative for intensity progression.

El yoga en el sector fitness en México: análisis de su posición de 2021 a 2024 y prospectiva para 2025

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2025

El yoga es una herramienta para fomentar sociedades activas y es parte de las encuestas de tendencias fitness. El objetivo del estudio es analizar la posición del yoga en el sector fitness en México. Se trata de un estudio longitudinal en el recurso humano mexicano del fitness en el que se indaga la ubicación del yoga de 2021 a 2024; durante este periodo el yoga se encuentra en posiciones rezagadas. Se prospectó una mejora para 2025. A pesar de que el yoga tiene un lugar importante en el sector fitness global, su bajo posicionamiento en México podría relacionarse con factores culturales, de edad y económicos. No obstante, su inclusión en universidades y su promoción en centros de acondicionamiento físico y lugares de trabajo podría aportar sus beneficios para la salud física y mental de jóvenes, adultos y ancianos.

Comparison of Virtual Vs. Traditional Cycling Exercise on Perceived Duration and Exercise Enjoyment: A Pilot Study

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2025

Participating in regular physical activity has been shown to increases one’s quality of life. Individuals may choose not to participate in regular physical activity because of a perceived lack of time and enjoyment. With the potential of these barriers to decrease exercise adherence, the purpose of this study was to compare perceived exercise duration and enjoyment between a virtually interactive stationary bike and a clamped workload on a standard non-interactive stationary bike. Thirteen active participants completed a VO2 peak test and four counterbalanced trials (two 20-min, two 40-min) with one trial at each duration on the interactive ExpressoTM bike (EXP) and a workload matched trial on a Velotron (VEL). Metabolic data (VO2), rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) was recorded every 5 minutes throughout the trial. Perceived duration and exercise enjoyment (measured by the PACES questionnaire) was assessed 15-minutes after the trial concluded. No significant differences were found for perceived duration (min) between EXP and VEL trials at both short and long duration. For the long duration ExpressoTM (LDE) trial, RPE-overall (RPE-O) was significantly lower at the 25-, 35-, and 40-min mark and RPE-legs (RPE-L) was significantly lower at the 25 min mark compared to the long duration Velotron (LDV) trial. Exercise enjoyment was significantly higher on both EXP trials (vs. VEL). Despite matched intensities, participants perceived the LDE trial more enjoyable and easier (based on RPE) at timepoints beyond 25-min. Virtually interactive cycling could lead to longer exercise durations and/or greater intensities vs. traditional cycling.

Relationships between perceived physical literacy and mental health in tertiary education students: a scoping review

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2025
BMC PUBLIC HEALTH

Background/objective Physical literacy (PL) is “the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life”. Recent evidence has shown that PL was associated with mental wellbeing in different populations, yet a comprehensive review examining the association between PL and mental health among tertiary education students was lacking. The aims of this scoping review were to rapidly map relevant evidence on the relationships between perceived PL and mental health in higher education students and to determine the feasibility and value of conducting a full systematic review in this research area. Methods All primary studies (observational and experimental) examining the associations between PL and mental health in college/university/undergraduate students were included. Seven electronic databases, namely PubMed, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, ERIC, PsycINFO, Medline, and SPORTDiscus, were searched from their inceptions through 30 September 2024. A narrative approach was adopted to synthesize results relevant to the study aims categorized based on mental health outcomes. Results Seven observational studies (n = 34,824) were included. Results showed that PL was positively correlated with better mental wellbeing, including greater quality of life, better subjective wellbeing, higher levels of life satisfaction, improved resilience, and greater compliance with sleep guideline, and negatively associated with psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) among university students. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PL was also shown to buffer university students’ psychological distress, declines in quality of life and life satisfaction, as well as impaired sleep in the population. Conclusion Despite emerging research efforts to decipher the relationships between perceived PL and mental health in tertiary institution settings, further high-quality experimental studies are imperatively needed to guarantee the relevance of rigorous systemic reviews in the realm of university students’ mental health.

Validation of Aerobic Capacity (VO2max) and Pulse Oximetry in Wearable Technology

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2025
SENSORS-BASEL

Introduction: As wearable technology becomes increasingly popular and sophisticated, independent validation is needed to determine its accuracy and potential applications. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy (validity) of VO2max estimates and blood oxygen saturation measured via pulse oximetry using the Garmin fēnix 6 with a general population participant pool. Methods: We recruited apparently healthy individuals (both active and sedentary) for VO2max (n = 19) and pulse oximetry testing (n = 22). VO2max was assessed through a graded exercise test and an outdoor run, comparing results from the Garmin fēnix 6 to a criterion measurement obtained from a metabolic system. Pulse oximetry involved comparing fēnix 6 readings under normoxic and hypoxic conditions against a medical-grade pulse oximeter. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, error analysis, correlation analysis, equivalence testing, and bias assessment, with the validation criteria set at a concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) > 0.7 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) < 10%. Results: The Garmin fēnix 6 provided accurate VO2max estimates, closely aligning with the 15 s and 30 s averaged laboratory data (MAPE for 30 s avg = 7.05%; Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient for 30 s avg = 0.73). However, it failed to accurately measure blood oxygen saturation (BOS) under any condition or combined analysis (MAPE for combined conditions BOS = 4.29%; Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient for combined conditions BOS = 0.10). Conclusion: While the Garmin fēnix 6 shows promise for estimating the VO2max, reflecting its utility for both individuals and researchers, it falls short in accurately measuring BOS, limiting its application for monitoring acclimatization and managing pulmonary diseases. This research underscores the importance of validating wearable technology to leverage its full potential in enhancing personal health and advancing public health research.

A Novel method for quantifying fluctuations in wearable derived daily cardiovascular parameters across the menstrual cycle

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2024

Currently, knowledge of changes in cardiovascular function across the menstrual cycle and how these changes may inform upon underlying health is limited. Utilizing wrist-worn biometric data we developed a novel measure to quantify and investigate the cardiovascular fluctuation (i.e. cardiovascular amplitude) within resting heart rate (RHR) and heart rate variability (RMSSD) across 11,590 participants and 45,811 menstrual cycles. Within participants, RHR and RMSSD fluctuated in a regular pattern throughout the menstrual cycle, with population RHRmin and RMSSDmax at cycle day 5, RHRmax at day 26, and RMSSDmin at day 27. Cardiovascular amplitude was attenuated (p < 0.05) in older participants and participants using birth control, suggesting the novel metric may mirror differences in hormonal fluctuations in these cohorts. Longitudinal tracking of cardiovascular amplitude may offer accessible non-invasive monitoring of female physiology and underlying health across the menstrual cycle.

Using complex systems to understand running-related injuries

Article

Nov 2024
Res Sports Med

Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on Yoga Instruction: Examining Teaching Methodology, Class Components, and Injury Patterns in the Northeastern US

Article

Nov 2024
EXPLORE-NY

Mental Resilience in Crisis: Examining the Mental Health and Well-Being of Iranian Athletes During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2024
J Publ Aff

The pervasive impact of COVID-19 and economic sanctions has significantly influenced the well-being of Iranian athletes, leaving lasting imprints on both their physical and mental health. During this challenging time, this comprehensive study delves into the nuanced disparities among various cohorts of Iranian athletes across multiple dimensions, including insomnia severity, psychological distress, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, life satisfaction, and hope. Stratifying the participants based on their professionalism level, age, education, sports activity engagement, and COVID-19 infection status, our survey-based findings from a cohort of 280 athletes reveal compelling insights: Male athletes exhibit higher levels of distress, anxiety, and depression compared to their female counterparts. Professional athletes manifest elevated psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in contrast to semi-professional and amateur athletes. Insomnia severity is more prevalent among professional athletes, concurrently accompanied by higher levels of hope within this group. Young athletes and those with higher educational attainment report increased intrusive thoughts. Local and national athletes demonstrate higher levels of life satisfaction and hope compared to their international counterparts. Athletes not infected with Coronavirus experience heightened psychological distress compared to their COVID-19-infected counterparts. This nuanced exploration underscores the intricate interplay between various factors and their profound implications for the mental well-being of Iranian athletes in the face of global health challenges and economic constraints. By recognizing the vulnerabilities exposed during the pandemic and sanctions, policymakers can work toward a more resilient and robust sports sector, ensuring that the mental health and psychosocial well-being of athletes remain at the forefront of policy considerations.

2025 ACSM Worldwide Fitness Trends: Future Directions of the Health and Fitness Industry

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2024
ACSMS HEALTH FIT J

The annual ACSM's health and fitnes report aims to: i) identify predictions for the top 20 fitness trends in the United States and across the globe for 2025; ii) utilize data informed decision making to promote physical activity in the commercial, clinical, corporate, and community fitness sectors and iii) evaluate trend themes across regions to support consumer health and fitness.

Training, environmental and nutritional practices in indoor cycling: an explorative cross-sectional questionnaire analysis

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2024

Introduction Indoor cycling at home has grown rapidly in recent years facilitated by advances in technology and gamification. However, there is limited data on individual's training practices when cycling indoors. Methods Using a single-time point, cross-sectional questionnaire, we gathered information on equipment, environmental considerations, training practices and nutrition during indoor cycling. Results Following 492 responses, external variables (weather; 88.4%, lack of daylight; 56.3%), time efficiency (81.9%) and general fitness (70.9%) were most frequently cited as reasons to engage in indoor cycling. “Smart” turbo trainers linked to a mixed-reality cycling software were most frequently reported in equipment set-up. 78% of participants attempted to control temperature with 96% of these participants using at least 1 fan to control airflow. The volume of indoor training differed between seasons (winter: 6h10 ± 3 h 30, summer 2h52 ± 2h57, p < 0.001), and structured (61.9%) and unstructured work-outs (64.7%) were completed more than once a week with fewer participants engaging in competitive/racing events (20.9%). 98% percent of participants consumed fluids with an average fluid intake of 0.74 ± 0.28 L/h. Dependent on type of work-out, participants reported less planning of carbohydrate and protein intake during short-duration work-outs (∼40%–60%) relative to longer-duration work-outs (∼56%–80%). Caffeine use was the most frequently reported ergogenic aid. Conclusion Together we report indoor cycling practices with respect to training equipment, considerations of environmental and nutritional strategies and training habits. Our findings could be used to support the development of future research and indoor training guidelines.

Effects of Online-based Exercise on Body Composition and Muscular Function during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Article

Jul 2024

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of online-based and non-face-to-face exercise on body composition and muscular function in physically inactive females during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.METHODS This study included 21 physically inactive women with a mean age of 40.57 years. All participants engaged in 10 weeks (three times per week) of online-based and non-face-to-face exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic using the Zoom application, an online communication platform. The mean attendance rate for the 30 sessions of the exercise program was 97.6%. We used a computer tomography scan to assess the cross-sectional area of visceral fat and thigh muscles. In addition, we evaluated the muscular function by measuring the isokinetic peak torque of the knee joint at three angular velocities (60°/s, 90°/s, and 180°/s), as well as lower-limb proprioception (joint position and force senses in the knee joint).RESULTS After 10 weeks of online-based exercise, the visceral fat area significantly decreased (-3.1%, p=0.03), while thigh muscles increased (+2.0%, p=0.001). Isokinetic peak torque increased significantly at 60°/s (flexion: +9.2% and extension: +13.7%) and 180°/s (flexion: +12.0% and extension: +12.3%). Similar results were obtained regarding body weight (p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively). A significant improvement of up to 42% was obtained for joint position and force senses (p<0.01 and p<0.05).CONCLUSIONS This study showed a decrease in visceral fat area and an increase in muscle area, as well as improved muscular function, including isokinetic peak torque in the knee joint and lower body proprioception, in physically inactive women following online-based exercise. Online-based and nonface-to-face exercise can be a suitable alternative to improve body composition and muscular function for physically inactive individuals, even post-pandemic.

Validity of Current Smartwatches for Triathlon Training: How Accurate Are Heart Rate, Distance, and Swimming Readings?

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2024
SENSORS-BASEL

Smartwatches are one of the most relevant fitness trends of the past two decades, and they collect increasing amounts of health and movement data. The accuracy of these data may be questionable and requires further investigation. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to validate smartwatches for use in triathlon training. Ten different smartwatches were tested for accuracy in measuring heart rates, distances (via global navigation satellite systems, GNSSs), swim stroke rates and the number of swim laps in a 50 m Olympic-size pool. The optical heart rate measurement function of each smartwatch was compared to that of a chest strap. Thirty participants (15 females, 15 males) ran five 3 min intervals on a motorised treadmill to evaluate the accuracy of the heart rate measurements. Moreover, for each smartwatch, running and cycling distance tracking was tested over six runs of 4000 m on a 400 m tartan stadium track, six hilly outdoor runs over 3.4 km, and four repetitions of a 36.8 km road bike course, respectively. Three swimming protocols ranging from 200 m to 400 m were performed in triplicate in a 50 m Olympic-size pool, evaluating the tracked distance and the detected number of strokes. The mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs) for the average heart rate measurements varied between 3.1% and 8.3%, with the coefficient of determination ranging from 0.22 to 0.79. MAPE results ranged from 0.8% to 12.1% for the 4000 m run on the 400 m track, from 0.2% to 7.5% for the 3.4 km outdoor run, and from 0.0% to 4.2% for the 36.8 km bike ride. For the swimming tests, in contrast, the deviations from the true distance varied greatly, starting at a 0.0% MAPE for the 400 m freestyle and reaching 91.7% for the 200 m medley with style changes every 25 m. In summary, for some of the smartwatches, the measurement results deviated substantially from the true values. Measurements taken while road cycling over longer distances with only a few curves were in relative terms more accurate than those taken during outdoor runs and even more accurate than those taken on the 400 m track. In the swimming exercises, the accuracy of the measured distances was severely deteriorated by the medley changes among the majority of the smartwatches. Altogether, the results of this study should help in assessing the accuracy and thus the suitability of smartwatches for general triathlon training.

El sector fitness en Puerto Vallarta, México: tendencias para 2023

Chapter

Full-text available

Jun 2024

La información que generan los estudios sobre el sector fitness orientan en la toma de decisiones a empresarios, emprendedores y recurso humano especializado. Objetivo: analizar el sector fitness en Puerto Vallarta, México, las tendencias en los programas de acondicionamiento físico, así como las características del recurso humano y los gimnasios. Metodología: estudio descriptivo de tipo longitudinal de tendencia; la población de estudio fueron recursos humanos del sector fitness de Puerto Vallarta (199), para lo cual se utilizó la Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends. Resultados: las principales tendencias son: entrenamiento personal, programas de ejercicio y pérdida de peso, entrenamiento funcional, actividades fitness al aire libre y entrenamiento de fuerza con pesos libres. El recurso humano en mayor medida son estudiantes o egresados de una licenciatura en actividad física, su ingreso mensual oscila entre

5000 y

15000 y trabajan a tiempo parcial. Con respecto a las características de los centros y gimnasios en mayor medida son públicos o privados abiertos al público en general. Conclusiones: en el análisis de la evolución de las tendencias se observa la vuelta a la normalidad después de la pandemia, por lo que se considera importante continuar con el estudio del sector fitness en Puerto Vallarta, para potenciar la competitividad de dicho sector en beneficio de la economía y la salud de la población.

Tendências do Fitness em Portugal para 2024

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2024

Pretende-se, com o presente estudo, conhecer as tendências do Fitness em Portugal para 2024. Serão ainda realizadas comparações, entre grupos, designadamente: detentores de título profissional diferente (Técnico de exercício físico, Diretor técnico ou Sem título); entre quem está a exercer funções ou não enquanto profissional de fitness (PF); entre sexos; últimos 4 anos; e confrontação dos resultados portugueses com os de Espanha, da Europa e mundiais. Este estudo seguiu a metodologia do American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), tendo sido aplicado um questionário online a PF, profissionais de saúde relacionados com o exercício, e estudantes do setor do fitness/desporto/educação física (n = 422), que continha 50 tendências. Os resultados obtidos revelam que o Top 5 das principais tendências do fitness em Portugal são, por ordem decrescente: “Personal trainer (PT)”, “Empregar PF certificados”, “Exercício para a perda de peso”, “PT para pequenos grupos” e “Treino de força tradicional”. Quando comparados os grupos verificaram-se diferenças em 8 tendências entre os portadores de diferentes títulos profissionais, em 9 entre quem exerce ou não funções de PF, em 27 entre sexos e em 31 entre anos. As tendências do fitness portuguesas, para 2024, assemelham-se mais às do estudo espanhol, com 7 tendências iguais no Top 10, e do estudo europeu, com 6 tendências iguais no Top 10, do que às do estudo mundial do ACSM, com apenas 3 tendências iguais no Top 10. Palavras-chave: Portugal; Tendências; Fitness; ACSM; Profissional; Título; Sexo; Anos.

Online Fitness Training: A Cross-Sectional Study of Motivation, Health Benefits, and Behaviors of Indian Women

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2024

Waseem Fatima

2024 ACSM Worldwide Fitness Trends: Future Directions of the Health and Fitness Industry

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2024
ACSMS HEALTH FIT J

Apply It! This article will inform and help readers to: • Identify predictions for the top 20 fitness trends in the United States and across the globe for 2024. • Use data to inform health and fitness business decisions and professional development. • Recognize trend themes and region-specific needs to support consumer health and fitness.

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Exercise for Functional Fitness in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A 12-Week Follow-Up Study

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

Li-Ting Wang

Several recent studies have used virtual reality (VR)-based exercise to enhance functional fitness in older adults. However, most of these studies exclusively focused on short-term intervention outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of VR-based exercise on older adults’ retention of functional fitness after intervention and at follow-up.This study was a randomized controlled trial wherein older adults (mean age: 72.16 ± 4.9 years) were assigned to experimental ( n = 48) and control ( n = 50) groups. Experimental group participants engaged in VR exercise sessions for 75 to 90 minutes biweekly over 12 weeks. Control group participants did not participate in the intervention. Functional fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test. Functional fitness changes were compared using a generalized estimating equation. Pre-, post-, and follow-up tests were conducted at weeks 1, 13, and 24, respectively. After VR-based training, the experimental group performed better in functional fitness tests, including upper body flexibility, lower body flexibility, upper body strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, balance, and agility, than the control group immediately after the intervention. Improvements in lower body flexibility, upper body strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, balance, and agility persisted in the experimental group for up to 12 weeks. This study demonstrates that VR-based training potentially improves community-dwelling older adults’ functional fitness. Its findings may support the future development of novel exercise technologies and serve as a reference for the implementation of physical health promotion strategies for older adults.

Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage after a High-Intensity Interval Exercise Session: Systematic Review

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2023
Int J Environ Res Publ Health

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is considered an effective method to improve fitness and health indicators, but its high-intensity exercises and the mechanical and metabolic stress generated during the session can lead to the occurrence of exercise-induced muscle damage. Therefore, this study aimed to describe, by means of a systematic review, the effects of a single HIIT session on exercise-induced muscle damage. A total of 43 studies were found in the Medline/PubMed Science Direct/Embase/Scielo/CINAHL/LILACS databases; however, after applying the exclusion criteria, only 15 articles were considered eligible for this review. The total sample was 315 participants. Among them, 77.2% were men, 13.3% were women and 9.5 uninformed. Their age ranged from 20.1 ± 2 to 47.8 ± 7.5 years. HIIT protocols included running with ergometers (n = 6), CrossFit-specific exercises (n = 2), running without ergometers (n = 3), swimming (n = 1), the Wingate test on stationary bicycles (n = 2), and cycling (n = 1). The most applied intensity controls were %vVO2max, “all out”, MV, MAV, Vmax, and HRreserve%. The most used markers to evaluate muscle damage were creatine kinase, myoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase. The time for muscle damage assessment ranged from immediately post exercise to seven days. HIIT protocols were able to promote changes in markers of exercise-induced muscle damage, evidenced by increases in CK, Mb, LDH, AST, ALT, pain, and muscle circumference observed mainly immediately and 24 h after the HIIT session.

Assessing the Validity of Several Heart Rate Monitors in Wearable Technology While Mountain Biking

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2023

International Journal of Exercise Science 16(7): 1440-1450, 2023. Purpose: This study sought to assess the validity of several heart rate (HR) monitors in wearable technology during mountain biking (MTB), compared to the Polar H7® HR monitor, used as the criterion device. Methods: A total of 20 participants completed two MTB trials while wearing six HR monitors (5 test devices, 1 criterion). HR was recorded on a second-by-second basis for all devices analyzed. After data processing, validity measures were calculated, including 1. error analysis: mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean error (ME), and 2. Correlation analysis: Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). Thresholds for validity were set at MAPE < 10% and CCC > 0.7. Results: The only device that was found to be valid during mountain biking was the Suunto Spartan Sport watch with accompanying HR monitor, with a MAPE of 0.66% and a CCC of 0.99 for the overall, combined data. Conclusion: If a person would like to track their HR during mountain biking, for pacing, training, or other reasons, the devices best able to produce valid results are chest-based, wireless electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors, secured by elastic straps to minimize the movement of the device, such as the Suunto chest-based HR monitor.

El recurso humano como factor elemental de la competitividad del sector fitness en Puerto Vallarta

Thesis

Full-text available

Jul 2023

En un mercado altamente competitivo, el factor humano se erige como un elemento fundamental para potenciar y mejorar la posición competitiva de las empresas, favoreciendo así su crecimiento a largo plazo. Por lo que, en los últimos años, el sector de la actividad física y la salud en Puerto Vallarta ha experimentado un notable crecimiento, convirtiéndose en un componente relevante de la economía local. Este crecimiento ha generado múltiples oportunidades de empleo y ha fomentado el espíritu emprendedor en este ámbito. Además, se ha integrado como un servicio complementario, destacando la importancia de estos servicios con relación con la promoción y mejora tanto de la salud, como de la imagen corporal (Gómez, 2019). El desarrollo local se presenta como un elemento fundamental para el impulso del crecimiento económico y el fortalecimiento empresarial en el sector fitness. En este contexto, la importancia de los profesionales cualificados cobra especial relevancia, ya que su formación, conocimientos y habilidades fungen como un componente indispensable en la calidad y seguridad en los servicios ofrecidos, así como en la mejora continua de las organizaciones del sector.

Reliability of the mobile App to measure aerobic training parameters during maximum incremental treadmill test

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2023
Sport Sci Health

Background Mobile Applications (App) have reshaped approaches to the intervention and monitoring of physical training. The Safe Runner App is an example. However, evidence of the reliability of the Safe Runner App to obtain aerobic parameters still needs to be investigated. Aims The present study aimed to analyze the accuracy and reproducibility of power parameters and aerobic capacity derived from incremental testing on a treadmill using an application for mobile devices. Methods Twenty participants performed a maximum incremental test and retest. Maximum oxygen consumption (VO2MAX), maximum heart rate (HRMAX), maximum velocity (VMAX), anaerobic threshold heart rate (HRAT), and anaerobic threshold velocity (VAT) were estimated. A two-way ANOVA was used for dependent samples or the Friedman test for non-parametric data, and effect size (Cohens-d), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Bland–Altman were used to verify reliability. Results No differences between the test and retest (p > 0.05) were observed for all variables assessed. The variables VO2MAX (d = 0.05), HRMAX (d = 0.01), and VMAX (d = 0.05) showed a trivial effect size, while HRAT (d = 0.11) and VAT (d = 0.16) showed to be trivial/low. The ICC values for VO2MAX (0.996), HRMAX (0.955), HRAT (0.939), VMAX (0.996), and VAT (0.913) demonstrated reliability. The Bland–Altman plots demonstrated an agreement of the variables. The variables VO2MAX, HRAT, and VAT were identical when comparing the Safe Runner App and Excel software. Conclusion The Safe Runner App is reliable in identifying aerobic training parameters.

The effects of a constant vs. varying high- intensity interval protocol on physiological parameters connected to aerobic capacity

Thesis

Full-text available

Jun 2023

Massimo Köstl

Background: Time spent above 90% of maximal oxygen uptake (V̇ O2max) has been shown to be a valuable indicator of high-intensity interval training (HI[I]T) effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate whether variations in exercise intensity during an interval could lead to increased responses of the physiological systems associated with aerobic exercise performance. We hypothesized that a varied intensity protocol (VAR), vs. a work-matched constant intensity protocol (CON), would elicit a higher time spent above 90% V̇ O2max and evoke a higher skeletal muscle fractional O2 utilization/extraction, as measured by the drop in tissue saturation index (ΔTSI) with the NIRS technology. Materials & Methods: Nineteen participants (177.2 ± 8.9 cm, 71.7 ± 9.6 kg, 34 ± 12 years, 3687 ± 665 mL.min-1 absolute V̇ O2max, 51.9 ± 6.1 mL.min-1.kg-1 relative V̇ O2max) completed two HI[I]T protocols of 4 x 5 minutes with 3 minutes rest in between intervals: one constant-power (CON) and one varying-power (VAR) protocol. The VAR protocol consisted of two surges at 100% of maximum aerobic power (MAP) at the beginning and the middle of the interval, interspersed with sections at 75% of MAP. The CON protocol was work-matched to the VAR protocol and ridden at a constant power output. V̇ O2max, MAP and the maximal drop in TSI (ΔTSImax) were assessed in an incremental exercise test to voluntary exhaustion. Time spent above 90%V̇ O2max (T>90%V̇ O2max) and 90% ΔTSImax (T>90%ΔTSImax) were the primary outcomes of interest. Results: For T>90%V̇ O2max, there was no significant difference between the VAR (437 ± 420 s) and CON (372 ± 375 s) protocols (t(19) = 1.02, p = 0.32). Similarly, there was no significant difference in T>90%ΔTSImax between the VAR (397 ± 402 s) and CON (394 ± 440 s) protocols (t(15) = 0.05, p = 0.96). Conclusions: Our results did not support the hypothesis that a varied intensity protocol (VAR) would elicit a higher time spent above 90% V̇ O2max or higher skeletal muscle fractional O2 utilization/extraction compared to a work-matched constant intensity protocol (CON). Further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of varied intensity HI[I]T protocols on aerobic capacity and other aspects of exercise performance.

Encuesta Nacional de Tendencias Fitness en Colombia, año 2024

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Se planteó como objetivo para la actual investigación, averiguar y comparar las principales tendencias del sector fitness en Colombia para el año 2024. Los resultados fueron obtenidos mediante la difusión y aplicación de un cuestionario en modalidad online, en personal del sector fitness, siendo la presente la sexta edición, tomando como referente la metodología empleada en la encuesta internacional sobre tendencias en el fitness ejecutada por el Colegio Americano de Medicina del Deporte (ACSM). Se remite el formulario del cuestionario a 2200 actores del sector en diferentes ciudades de Colombia, obtenido una participación del 47.72% equivalente a 1050 respuestas, total representado en (40.95% mujeres, 55.71% hombres, 3.33% intersexual). Se destaca el top 5 en los resultados, Regulación ejercicio de los profesionales del fitness, Programas de fitness para adultos mayores, Entrenamiento personal, Equipos multidisciplinares, Programas de ejercicio para niños/as y adolescentes. Encontrando similitud en 12 tendencias en relación con los resultados de la encuesta del año 2023 en Colombia, observando movimiento en la ubicación de algunas tendencias, de igual manera se incorporan 8 nuevas tendencias y salen 8 tendencias del top 20, para el presente año.

Using the ADDIE model to design and develop physical education lessons incorporated with a functional training component

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Introduction Good physical fitness is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. For students, the school becomes the main place to improve their physical fitness. The traditional physical education class places little emphasis on improving physical fitness and students’ physical fitness have continued to decline. To address these challenges, this study aimed to design and develop a functional training program that can be incorporated into existing physical education lessons to improve students’ physical fitness levels. Methods This study adopted the instructional design framework of the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation (ADDIE) model to guide the design and development of the functional training program. After development, the program was implemented and evaluated. Results The results showed the program aroused students’ interest and significantly improved students’ physical fitness. Conclusion This study showed the usefulness of functional training in improving the physical fitness of primary school students. In addition, it provided a reference for how to use functional training in conjunction with the physical education syllabus.

Exploring subjective responses in high-intensity multimodal training: an online cross-sectional survey

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate exercise enjoyment in high-intensity multimodal training (HIMT) in current and previous HIMT participants and identify factors associated with HIMT that mediate exercise enjoyment and motivation. Design and setting A 124-item web-based survey was distributed to a cross-sectional voluntary convenience sample from August to the end of September 2021. Participants Global current and previous HIMT participants. Results The final sample included 469 responses (completion rate: 61.6%). Among eligible respondents (n=434), 379 were current HIMT participants, 55 were previous HIMT participants. Current participants demonstrated high enjoyment (Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale). The most frequently reported reasons for increased enjoyment and motivation to continue HIMT in current participants included (1) it keeps me fit, (2) training in a group and (3) variety in a session . The most frequently reported reasons for reduced motivation to continue HIMT among previous HIMT participants included (1) other (injury, COVID-19 restrictions, low motivation, personal preferences) , (2) work commitments and (3) I started another type of sport, exercise or training . Conclusions These findings indicate that HIMT is an enjoyable training method among current participants. The most commonly reported reasons for increased enjoyment and motivation were associated with the combined training method and the group environment. Reasons for reduced motivation to continue HIMT among previous HIMT participants may be related to commonly reported barriers to exercise and personal factors.

Golf Club Management Challenges towards Sustainability: Opportunities and Innovations during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Perspective

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Golf is among the top five sports practiced in Spain because sport tourism is one of their main lines of income. During the COVID-19 pandemic, all golf clubs had to shut down and thus enter a situation of economic uncertainty. The main objective of this study was to assess the sport management challenges that general managers of golf clubs have had to face before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they dealt with these issues. In this qualitative case study, management challenges and strategies were explored by subjecting five golf club managers with at least 5 years of experience to semi-structured interviews. Managers described that they went from a pre-pandemic situation of economic growth to having to deal with different challenges such as a lack of tourism, increased costs, and a need to install new safety and maintenance protocols. All participants highlighted the importance of constant communication with and transparency among stakeholders (clubs, government bodies, federations) during and after the lockdown period. Management during the pandemic expedited the digitization of golf clubs, and this was considered one of the main upsides of this period. Exploring the strategies used could help managers of this and other sports facilities to design sustainable management protocols to deal with possible future health or economic crises.

HYPERCONNECTION IN THE AGE OF HEALTHY LIFESTYLE TECHNOLOGIES: RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN HEALTH, DATA PRIVACY, AND EDUCATION

Article

Full-text available

May 2025

Allyson Carvalho De Araújo

The objective of this essay is to problematize the healthy lifestyle technologies universe beyond the uses and implications at the individual level, revealing ethical-structural implications specific to the logic of platformization. The Actor-Network theory is used, in addition to concepts such as platformization and datafication to shed light on a specific case of application of digital technology as an illustration of a broader movement. In the end, four resistance strategies are suggested for the area of Physical Education in the face of the hyperexposure of subjects using such applications.

Integrating functional fitness into rehabilitation: The science of high-intensity functional training

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2025

Zara Khalid

Train Me: Exploring Mobile Sports Capture and Replay for Immersive Sports Coaching

Conference Paper

Sep 2024

Digital Technologies: Applications, Window of Opportunity and Challenges in Exercise, Health and Sports

Book

Full-text available

Aug 2024

This reprint represents the collaborative efforts of the Guest Editors to explore new and emerging methodologies for delivering innovative solutions in exercise, health, and sports. We are grateful to all the authors of the manuscripts published in this special edition. Without their contributions, this reprint would not have been possible. The communities of “Sport Sciences”, “Public, Environmental, and Occupational Health” and “Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy, and Rehabilitation” extend their thanks to the authors for their valuable input. We hope you enjoy reading this collection and that you find the insights within both enlightening and inspiring. Rodrigo Zacca, Flávio Antônio de Souza Castro, and Rui Miguel Simões de Azevedo Guest Editors

Investigating the role of social inhibition in enduring involvement in online synchronous exercise classes: A use and gratification perspective

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2024

With the advancement of communication technology, online synchronous exercise courses become more common in recent years due to their ability to transcend time and space. Based on uses and gratifications theory (U&G), this study proposes a conceptual model for online synchronized exercise classes and examines the relationships among social inhibition, motivation, satisfaction, and continued involvement. After 322 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed by partial least squares (PLS), this study confirmed the significant positive effects of hedonic, identified, and integrative motivation on online synchronous exercise satisfaction and the significant negative effect of social inhibition on online synchronous exercise satisfaction. Moreover, online synchronous exercise satisfaction has a positive effect on enduring involvement. This study not only contributes by extending the application of U&G theory to dynamic online synchronized exercise and addressing the interaction and pressure of online users in cyberspace but also provides novel marketing strategies for fitness and sports organizations.

At-home bodyweight interval exercise in the fed versus fasted state lowers postprandial glycemia and appetite perceptions in females

Article

Full-text available

May 2024

Limited research has characterized the metabolic health benefits of bodyweight interval exercise (BWE) performed outside of a laboratory setting. Metabolic responses to exercise can also be influenced by meal timing around exercise, but the interactive effects of BWE and nutrition are unknown. This study investigated the effects of BWE performed in the fasted or fed state on postprandial glycemia, post-exercise fat oxidation and appetite perceptions. Twelve females (23 ± 2 years; 22 ± 2 kg/m²) underwent two virtually-monitored trials that involved completing BWE (10 × 1 min, 1 min recovery) 5 min before (FastEX) or beginning BWE 10 min after (FedEX) a standardized breakfast. Heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured during exercise and capillary glucose concentrations were measured for 2 h postprandial. Following exercise, appetite perceptions were assessed and Lumen expired carbon dioxide percentage (L%CO2) was measured as an index of fat oxidation. Heart rate (85 ± 5%) and RPE (14 ± 2) did not differ between conditions (p > 0.05). Postprandial glucose mean (6.1 ± 0.6 vs. 6.8 ± 0.8 mmol/L, p = 0.03), peak (7.4 ± 1.2 vs. 8.5 ± 1.5 mmol/L, p = 0.01), and area under the curve (AUC) (758 ± 72 vs. 973 ± 82 mmol/L × 2 h, p = 0.004) were lower in FedEX versus FastEX. Appetite perceptions were lower in FedEX versus FastEX (−87.63 ± 58.51 vs. −42.06 ± 34.96 mm, p = 0.029). Post-exercise L%CO2 was transiently decreased 30 min post-exercise in both conditions (4.03 ± 0.38 vs. 4.29 ± 0.34%, p = 0.0023), reflective of increased fat oxidation following BWE. These findings demonstrate that BWE performed in the fed compared to the fasted state lowered postprandial glycemia and appetite perceptions in females.

A virtual gym in your pocket: the influence of augmented reality exercise app characteristics on user’s continuance intention

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2024

In recent years, with the development of augmented reality (AR) technology and the prevalence of COVID-19, augmented reality exercise applications (AREAs) have entered people’s lives and changed people’s exercise ways. However, there is still little research on how AREAs affect users’ continuance intention, which limits our deeper understanding of the further use of AREAs by users for the potential benefits they provide. This study investigates the role of AREAs by proposing the original proposition of AREAs characteristic classification based on previous AR literature and dividing their characteristics into two categories: service and system characteristics. Through an online empirical study, 398 valid questionnaires were collected to test the hypotheses using the structural equation model. The results showed that hedonic and utilitarian value and presence are vital inner states which mediate the influence of service and system characteristics on user’s satisfaction and continuance intention. The results further show that only hedonic value is found to have a positive and significant relationship with continuance intention. This study contributes to the literature in the AR field by examining how different AR application characteristics affect user continuance intention in the context of sports and fitness. It also suggests that practitioners should identify the impact of different characteristics on user value and focus on the hedonic aspects of the application.

Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Expand Accessibility and Improve Precision in Rehabilitation and Exercise for People with Disabilities

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2024
Int J Environ Res Publ Health

Physical rehabilitation and exercise training have emerged as promising solutions for improving health, restoring function, and preserving quality of life in populations that face disparate health challenges related to disability. Despite the immense potential for rehabilitation and exercise to help people with disabilities live longer, healthier, and more independent lives, people with disabilities can experience physical, psychosocial, environmental, and economic barriers that limit their ability to participate in rehabilitation, exercise, and other physical activities. Together, these barriers contribute to health inequities in people with disabilities, by disproportionately limiting their ability to participate in health-promoting physical activities, relative to people without disabilities. Therefore, there is great need for research and innovation focusing on the development of strategies to expand accessibility and promote participation in rehabilitation and exercise programs for people with disabilities. Here, we discuss how cutting-edge technologies related to telecommunications, wearables, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing are providing new opportunities to improve accessibility in rehabilitation and exercise for people with disabilities. In addition, we highlight new frontiers in digital health technology and emerging lines of scientific research that will shape the future of precision care strategies for people with disabilities.

Caracterización del ejercicio físico dirigido de manera virtual y percepción de sus beneficios en mujeres Chilenas (Characterization of physical exercise with virtual guidance and perception of its benefits in Chilean women)

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar las características del ejercicio físico dirigido de manera virtual y los beneficios percibidos por mujeres chilenas. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, mediante un cuestionario autoinformado sobre caracterización y percepción de sus beneficios. La muestra estuvo conformada por mujeres chilenas residentes en las regiones de Antofagasta, Valparaíso, Metropolitana y Bío-bío que practicaron ejercicio físico dirigido de manera virtual durante 2020 o 2021. Los principales resultados muestran que las mujeres practican ejercicio físico dirigido de manera virtual por conveniencia del horario (55.0%) y principalmente para mejorar su salud (47.7%). El entrenamiento con mayor aceptación es el entrenamiento interválico de alta intensidad (42.3%), realizado en su mayoría a través de la plataforma Zoom (64.9%). La mayoría de las mujeres encuestadas percibe una reducción en la circunferencia de la cintura (57.7%), beneficios en el estado de ánimo (72.1%), mejora en la calidad del sueño (59.5%) y en el funcionamiento general del cuerpo (64.0%). En conclusión, nuestros resultados muestran que el ejercicio físico dirigido de manera virtual es una alternativa efectiva para obtener beneficios para la salud e informan sobre las características del ejercicio físico preferido por las mujeres chilenas. Palabras Clave: Ejercicio, físico, virtual, percepción, beneficios, mujeres. Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics of physical exercise developed with virtual guidance and the benefits perceived by Chilean women. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out, using a self-reported questionnaire on the characterization and perception of its benefits. The sample consisted of Chilean women residing in the Antofagasta, Valparaíso, Metropolitan and Bío-bío regions who practiced physical exercise with virtual guidance during 2020 and 2021. The main results show that women practice physical exercise with virtual guidance due to the convenience of time (55.0%) and mainly to improve their health (47.7%). The training with the greatest acceptance is high-intensity interval training (42.3%), carried out mostly through the Zoom platform (64.9%). Most of the women surveyed perceive a reduction in waist circumference (57.7%), benefits in mood (72.1%), improvement in sleep quality (59.5%) and in the general functioning of the body (64.0%). In conclusion, our results show that physical exercise with virtual guidance is an effective alternative to obtain health benefits and inform about the characteristics of the physical exercise preferred by Chilean women. Keywords: Physical, exercise, virtual, perception, benefits, women.

Innovation in Training Service for the Sport Management Sector in Ecuador

Chapter

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Summar Alfredo Gómez Barrios

Innovation in Training Service for the Sport Management Sector in Ecuador

Chapter

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Summar Alfredo Gómez Barrios

Innovation in Training Service for the Sport Management Sector in Ecuador

Chapter

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Summar Alfredo Gómez Barrios

Effect of Tele-exercise to Promote Empowered Movement for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury (TEEMS) Program on Physical Activity Determinants and Behavior: A Mixed Methods Assessment

Article

Sep 2023

Objective: To assess the effects of group tele-exercise participation on physical activity (PA) determinants and behavior as identified by social cognitive theory (SCT) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Design: This clinically registered non-randomized trial [NCT05360719] used a single group parallel mixed methods design. Quantitative and qualitative primary measures were assessed at pre-program and following 8-week intervention completion (post-program), with an additional 8-week period retention to capture quantitative assessments only. Setting: Community. Participants: Individuals with chronic SCI (n=22, injury duration 2-50 years) aged 26-68 years (10 male/12 female). Intervention: An 8-week group tele-exercise program for individuals with SCI consisting of biweekly 60-minute classes delivered via live web-conferencing software. Main outcome measures: Exercise self-efficacy (Exercise Self-efficacy Scale for SCI: ESES), outcome expectations for exercise (Multidimensional Outcome Expectations for Exercise: MOEES), weekly PA minutes measured through quantitative assessments (Leisure Time PA Questionnaire for SCI: LTPAQ), and parallel qualitative thematic analysis of focus group interview transcripts. Results: Congruence between numeric and thematic findings was present for exercise self-efficacy and self-evaluative exercise outcome expectations. Improved exercise self-efficacy was influenced by exercise knowledge gained during program participation. Increased expectations of internal exercise outcomes, such as influence on psychological state and overall mood, occurred following program participation. Participant descriptions of the portability and sustainability of the program leading to added movement in everyday life were not reflected in the numeric scores of LTPAQ assessment. Conclusions: Participation in an 8-week group tele-exercise program positively impacted personal determinants of PA behavior immediately following participation. Future investigations should include a control group and biophysical PA measures such as wearable digital health devices.

Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2020

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Nov 2019

Walter R. Thompson

Apply It! From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • Articulate the differences between a fad and a trend • Use the worldwide trends in commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health fitness industry to further promote physical activity • Study expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2020

WORLDWIDE SURVEY of FITNESS TRENDS for 2019

Article

Nov 2018

Walter R. Thompson

Table of Contents Summary The annual ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal® worldwide survey to determine industry trends by health fitness professionals is now in its 13th consecutive year. Strength training (the #5 trend in 2018) was dropped from this year’s survey because it was determined to be too generic. In previous surveys, educated, certified, and experienced fitness professionals that was a top performing trend (#1 in 2008–2013 and in the top 10 in every survey) also was dropped from the survey because it was too broad and lacked the necessary specificity. Employing certified fitness professionals was added as a potential new trend for 2019 and was rated #6. Wearable technology regained the #1 trend after dropping to #3 in 2018. Group training (more than five participants) was rated #2, which is the spot it held in 2018. Last year’s #1 trend, high-intensity interval training, dropped to #3 for 2019. Regaining spots in the top 20 fitness trends include mobile exercise devices (#13), worksite health promotion and workplace well-being programs (#15), outcome measurements (#16), and postrehabilitation classes (#20). Dropping out of the top 20 fitness trends include circuit weight training, sport-specific training, and core training. Four international experts independently commented on the results. Apply It! From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts:

Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2018: The CREP Edition

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Nov 2017

Walter R. Thompson

Apply It: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: Tell the difference between a fad and a trend. Apply and use worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health fitness industry. Read expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2018.

Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2017

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Nov 2016

Walter R. Thompson

Learning Objectives From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • The difference between a fad and a trend. • Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health fitness industry. • Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2017.

Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2016: 10th Anniversary Edition

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Nov 2015

Walter R. Thompson

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Dec 2013

Walter R. Thompson

From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • the difference between a fad and a trend • worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health fitness industry • expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2014

Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2015 :What's driving the market

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Dec 2014

Walter R. Thompson

Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2012

Article

Nov 2011

Walter R. Thompson

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • The difference between a fad and a trend • Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (including medical fitness), and community health and fitness industry • Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2012

Worldwide Survey Reveals Fitness Trend for 2010

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Nov 2009

Walter R. Thompson

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • The difference between a fad and a trend • Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical, and community health and fitness industry • Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2010

Worldwide Survey Reveals Fitness Trends for 2008

Article

Nov 2007

Walter R. Thompson

LEARNING OBJECTIVE: • From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: 1. the difference between a fad and a trend, 2. worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical, and community health and fitness industry, and 3. expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2008.

Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2011

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Nov 2010

Walter R. Thompson

Learning Objectives: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • The difference between a fad and a trend • Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical (medical fitness), and community health and fitness industry • Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2011

Worldwide Survey Reveals Fitness Trends for 2007

Article

Nov 2006

Walter R. Thompson

Learning Objectives: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: 1. The difference between a fad and a trend 2. Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical, and community health and fitness industry 3. Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2007

Worldwide Survey Reveals Fitness Trends for 2009

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Nov 2008

Walter R. Thompson

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: From this article, the reader should understand the following concepts: • The difference between a fad and a trend. • Worldwide trends in the commercial, corporate, clinical, and community health and fitness industry. • Expert opinions about identified fitness trends for 2009.

Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2021

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