Biomechanical, physiological and anthropometrical predictors of performance in recreational runners.

Background: The maximal running speed (V) determined on a graded treadmill test is well-recognized as a running performance predictor. However, few studies have assessed the variables that predict V in recreationally active runners.

Methods: We used a mathematical procedure combining Fick's law and metabolic cost analysis to verify the relation between (1) V versus anthropometric and physiological determinants of running performance and, (2) theoretical metabolic cost versus running biomechanical parameters.

Self-Massage Acute Effects on Pressure Pain Threshold, Muscular Electrical Activity, and Muscle Force Production: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Furlan, MR, Machado, E, Petter, GdN, Barbosa, IM, Geremia, JM, and Glänzel, MH. Self-massage acute effects on pressure pain threshold, muscular electrical activity, and muscle force production: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 620-635, 2024-Self-massage (SM) is often used in physiotherapy and sports training programs.

How do differences in Achilles' tendon moment arm lengths affect muscle-tendon dynamics and energy cost during running?

Introduction: The relationship between the Achilles tendon moment arm length (AT) and the energy cost of running (E) has been disputed. Some studies suggest a short AT reduces E while others claim a long AT reduces E. For a given ankle joint moment, a short AT permits a higher tendon strain energy storage, whereas a long AT reduces muscle fascicle force and muscle energy cost but shortening velocity is increased, elevating the metabolic cost.

Facial mask acute effects on affective/psychological and exercise performance responses during exercise: A meta-analytical review.

Face masks are widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic as one of the protective measures against the viral infection risk. Some evidence suggests that face mask prolonged use can be uncomfortable, and discomfort can be exacerbated during exercise. However, the acute responses of mask-wearing during exercise on affective/psychological and exercise performance responses is still a topic of debate.

Triceps Surae Muscle-Tendon Properties as Determinants of the Metabolic Cost in Trained Long-Distance Runners.

This study aimed to determine whether triceps surae's muscle architecture and Achilles tendon parameters are related to running metabolic cost (C) in trained long-distance runners. Seventeen trained male recreational long-distance runners (mean age = 34 years) participated in this study. C was measured during submaximal steady-state running (5 min) at 12 and 16 km h on a treadmill.

Physiological Predictors of Maximal Incremental Running Performance.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to verify whether physiological components [vertical jumps (Squat Jump - SJ and Countermovement Jump - CMJ), eccentric utilization ratio (EUR) of vertical jumps, running economy (RE), metabolic cost (C ), first and second ventilatory threshold (VT and VT) maximal oxygen uptake (VO)] can predict maximal endurance running performance.

Methods: Twenty male runners performed maximal vertical jumps, submaximal running at constant speeds, and maximal incremental running test. Before, we measured anthropometric parameters (body mass and height) and registered the training history and volume.