Abstract Fazio, C, Elder, CL, and Harris, MM. Efficacy of alternative forms of creatine supplementation on improving performance and body composition in healthy subjects: a systematic review. J Strength Cond Res 36(9): 2663–2670, 2022—Novel forms of creatine have appeared in the marketplace with substantial claims of improved efficacy compared to creatine monohydrate (CrM). The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review on alternative forms of creatine to determine (a) whether they are effective ergogenic aids and (b) whether they outperform CrM. A separate comparison was conducted to determine average cost of various forms of creatine. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar were systematically reviewed according to PRISMA guidelines. The design of the review was set to answer the PICOS model (subjects, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and study design). Seventeen randomized placebo controlled clinical trials examining exercise performance outcomes and body composition were included in the analysis. Magnesium-creatine chelate and creatine citrate, malate, ethyl ester, nitrate, and pyruvate were the only forms researched in the literature. Of these studies, only 3 studies compared the alternative creatine form to CrM, making it difficult to compare efficacy to CrM. There were no consistent findings of performance enhancement among alternative forms of creatine when compared to placebo. A review of the marketplace shows that CrM is the lowest cost form of creatine. Due to the paucity of studies on alternative forms of creatine as well as high prices on the market of these alternative forms, CrM remains as the most extensively studied form of creatine that shows efficacy, safety, and lowest cost to consumer.

OrtizJr, RO, Sinclair Elder, AJ, Elder, CL, and Dawes, JJ. A systematic review on the effectiveness of active recovery interventions on athletic performance of professional-, collegiate-, and competitive-level adult athletes. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2018-Active recovery (AR) is a popular approach to enhancing athlete recovery from participation through physical action, and it has a perceived benefit in the recovery of athletes' enhancement of postexertional physiological status; however, it is unclear whether these recovery techniques enhance athletic performance. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the effects of AR interventions conducted postexertion on athletic performance among professional, collegiate, and competitive adult athletes. Articles were collected via 4 online databases restricted to publication in English between 1998 and 2014. After the evaluation of overlap among the databases and abstract review, 150 potential eligible studies remained. Twenty-six articles involving 471 subjects remained after full analysis. The primary exclusion factor was absence of AR types of interest or measures of performance. The review resulted in a wide variety of findings indicating the vagueness in AR approach and outcome measures, making it difficult to draw specific conclusions. The review demonstrated that AR interventions lasting 6-10 minutes revealed consistently positive effects on performance. The appropriate intensity level of AR sessions was inconclusive in the literature; however, blood lactate clearance rate as a recovery marker appeared unreliable. The review suggests that there are positive psychological outcomes from AR sessions, a need to determine if AR should be individualized in its application, and weak evidence regarding the efficacy of postexercise AR, particularly relating to performance. Future research is needed for reliable and accurate markers for fatigue, physiological recovery, performance, and markers of intensity and duration for AR interventions.

OBJECTIVE:To analyze injury frequency, density, location, type, mechanism of injury (MOI), activity phase of injury, and injury risk in professional rodeo.DESIGN:Retrospective epidemiological review.SETTING:Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned rodeos from 2011 to 2014.PARTICIPANTS:Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitors competing in bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, tie-down roping, and steer wrestling.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Injury reports were documented by sports medicine personnel. Variables assessed include event, frequency, density, location, type, MOI, activity phase of injury, and injury density.RESULTS:A total of 2305 injuries from 139,098 competitor exposures (CEs) were reported, demonstrating overall injury density of 16.6 injuries per 1000 CEs (95% confidence interval, 0.016-0.017) and overall risk of injury of 1.69%. Rough stock riders accounted for 88.7% of all injuries. Bull riders, bareback riders, and saddle bronc riders demonstrated injury densities of 48.2, 41.1, and 23.2 injuries per 1000 CEs, respectively. Most injuries (62.9%) were sustained by collisions with the ground or animal, or being stomped on by the animal. Contusions, sprains, and concussions were the most frequent injury types (23.1%, 13.6%, and 11.6%, respectively). Neurological components, knees, and shoulders were the most injured body parts (13.4%, 11.1%, and 11.0%, respectively). Most injuries (36.8%) occurred during or immediately after the dismount.CONCLUSIONS:Rough stock events have the greatest risk of injury in professional rodeo, whereas steer wrestling has the greatest risk of injury for timed event athletes. Medical professionals should use these findings to implement prevention programming where possible.

BackgroundCompression garments (CGs) have increased in popularity within recreational and competitive athlete populations. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine the effect of CGs on physiological, performance, and perceptual measures while running on uneven terrain at higher altitude. MethodsNine recreationally active males participated in two trail running sessions (7 km: uphill section 3.5 km, and downhill section 3.5 km).In the first session, participants completed the 7 km trail while wearing regular athletic clothing.Seven days later, participants then completed the same 7 km trail wearing CGs.Physiological and performance measures were collected at the baseline, during the trail run, immediate post-run, and 24, 48, 72 hours after the trail run. ResultsResults showed no significant differences in time to completion (p=≥0.05).However, there were significant differences in physiological load (p=0.04),training load (p=0.01),average physiological intensity (p=0.05), and estimated caloric expenditure (p=0.02) between trials.Significant improvement in vertical jump height and peak anaerobic power in watts (p=0.04),isometric strength (p=0.03), and post-exercise pain ratings at 48 (p=0.01) and 72 (p=0.038)hours post exercise were found under the CG condition. ConclusionAlthough there were no differences in time to complete the runs in both conditions (with and without CGs), the significant differences in the physiological measures suggests that the CGs may have an ergogenic effect when participating in trail running activities at a higher altitude.Therefore, wearing CGs may increase exercise efficiency and capacity, leading to a possible increase in recovery from training and activity.

The purpose of this study was to examine satisfaction with and outcomes of a real-time Internet-based group exercise program for older adults. Men and women age 50 and older (mean = 66.5) were recruited to participate in a 10-week distance group exercise program. Paired sample t-tests revealed that Sit-To-Stand (STS) repetitions increased significantly (p = .009), while Timed Up-and-Go(TUG) time decreased significantly (p = .000). Connectivity, visibility, and communication emerged as themes related to the use of technology; but overall, real-time Internet-based technology was shown to be an effective way to present group exercise programs for older adults in this rural setting.

International Journal of Exercise Science 9(2): 175-186, 2016. Plyometric training has been implemented to increase jump height in a variety of sports, but its effects have not been researched in figure skating. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a plyometric training program on on-ice and off-ice jump performance. Six collegiate figure skaters (19.8±1.2 years; 164.7±4.9 cm; 60.3±11.6 kg) completed a six-week sport-specific plyometric training program, consisting of low to moderate intensity plyometric exercises, while eight collegiate figure skaters (21.1±3.9 years; 162.6±6.0 cm; 60.4±6.1 kg) served as the control group. Significant increases were found for vertical jump height, standing long jump distance, (F = 31.0, p < 0.001), and flight time (F = 11.6, p = 0.007). No significant differences were found for selfreported jump evaluation (p = 0.101). Six weeks of plyometric training improved both on-ice and off-ice jump performance in collegiate figure skaters, while short-term skating training alone resulted in decreases. These results indicate that figure skaters could participate in off-ice plyometric training.

In collegiate level soccer acceleration, maximal velocity and agility are essential for successful performance. Power production is believed to provide a foundation for these speed qualities. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of change of direction speed, acceleration, and maximal velocity to both the counter movement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) in collegiate soccer players. Thirty-six NCAA Division II soccer players (20 males and 16 females) were tested for speed over 10 and 30 m, CODS (T-test, pro agility) and power (CMJ, SJ). Independent t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) were used to derive gender differences, and Pearson’s correlations (p ≤ 0.05) calculated relationships between the different power and speed tests. Female subjects displayed moderate-to-strong correlations between 30 m, pro agility and T-test with the CMJ (r = −0.502 to −0.751), and SJ (r = −0.502 to −0.681). Moderate correlations between 10 and 30 m with CMJ (r = −0.476 and −0.570) and SJ (r = −0.443 and −0.553, respectively) were observed for males. Moderate to strong relationships exist between speed and power attributes in both male and female collegiate soccer players, especially between CMJ and maximal velocity. Improving stretch shortening cycle (SSC) utilization may contribute to enhanced sport-specific speed.

Background: Resistance training (RT) is a widely accepted component of a well-rounded exercise routine. Anecdotal information suggests that females typically view RT as a masculine activity. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine why females who are already engaged in an exercise routine are reluctant to embrace RT. Methods: Ninety-four (N=94) participants completed a 37-item questionnaire, developed to assess female perceptions of RT. The instrument was designed to gather information on demographics, the participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs towards RT. The questionnaire was administered at three fitness facilities. Analyses were conducted using descriptive frequencies, independent sample t-test, and chi square tests. Results: A significant difference (p ≤ 0.001) was found between the participants who met the American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) recommendations and those who did not. For moderate intensity aerobic exercise duration, 59.6% of participants did not meet the ACSM recommendation (mean = 83.62 min/week). For conventional strength training frequency, 75.6% of the participants met the ACSM recommendations for RT. For functional strength training frequency, 51.0% of participants did not meet the ACSM recommendations for RT. Conclusion: females, who met the ACSM’s recommendations for RT, did not for aerobic exercise. Females displayed knowledge of RT and did not report belief in the misconceptions of RT. Further research is needed to determine why females are participating in sufficient levels of RT, but not aerobic exercise. More detailed research should also be conducted to determine if females are participating in the adequate volume of RT.

The Åstrand-Ryhming Submaximal Bicycle Test is an accurate and widely used test to estimate maximal oxygen consumption. This test requires a participant to maintain a workload over a 6-min. period. The issue facing many employing this protocol is the identification of an appropriate workload for the cycling regimen. The present study is designed to identify a method for determining an appropriate workload for female participants. A prior study designed a workload selection procedure specifically for men; however, the selection procedure designed for women in this study was better able to elicit a final heart rate (average of minutes five and six) between 165–170 bpm compared to the original Åstrand-Ryhming procedure.

OBJECTIVE:To critically analyze published literature to determine the effectiveness of myofascial release therapy as a treatment for orthopaedic conditions. DATA SOURCES:We searched the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Search Premier, Cochrane Library, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), with key words myofascial release, myofascial release therapy, myofascial release treatment, musculoskeletal, and orthopedic. No date limitations were applied to the searches. STUDY SELECTION:Articles were selected based upon the use of the term myofascial release in the abstract or key words. Final selection was made by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria to the full text. Studies were included if they were English-language, peer-reviewed studies on myofascial release for an orthopaedic condition in adult patients. Ten studies were eligible. DATA EXTRACTION:Data collected were number of participants, condition being treated, treatment used, control group, outcome measures and results. Studies were analyzed using the PEDro scale and the Center for Evidence-Based Medicine's Levels of Evidence Scale. DATA SYNTHESIS:Study scores on the PEDro scale ranged from 6 of 10 to 8 of 10. Based on the Levels of Evidence Scale, the case studies (n = 6) were of lower quality, with a rank of 4. Three of the 4 remaining studies were rated at 2b, and the final study was rated at 1b. CONCLUSIONS:The quality of studies was mixed, ranging from higher-quality experimental to lower-quality case studies. Overall, the studies had positive outcomes with myofascial release, but because of the low quality, few conclusions could be drawn. The studies in this review may serve as a good foundation for future randomized controlled trials.

This study investigated societal attitudes toward non-medical anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use. One hundred and seventy-eight (n=178) health club patrons were presented two vignettes featuring an athlete or recreational weightlifter taking AAS to improve either performance or looks. After reading the vignette participants responded to 3 open-ended questions and a 10item questionnaire about the use of AAS. A cross-tabulation analysis using Cramer’s V and Multivariate Analysis of Variance were used to examine the extent to which the independent variable of “scenario” had an effect on each of the dependent variables. Analysis revealed more harsh feelings toward the athlete using AAS for performance versus the non-athlete using AAS for looks. Significant differences were found between the vignette scenarios regarding the two different types of AAS users. Based on the results of this research it appears that individuals that take AAS for the purpose of improving their appearance are viewed less harshly than athletes taking AAS to improve sports performance. Professionals in the field need to recognize that societal pressure may not be a good deterrent against AAS use and should instead encourage scientifically based nutrition, dietary supplement and strength training programs to help their clients or patients achieve their goals.

Low regional bone mineral density (BMD) has been correlated with increased fracture incidence in multiple body regions. Fracture of the distal radius of the forearm is prevalent in adults and has also been shown to be an early indicator of osteoporosis. Attainment of high peak bone mass in the forearm at a young age results in enhanced maintenance of bone density and reduced fracture later in life, and high bone mineral density of the forearm is inversely correlated with incidence of Colles' fracture. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare BMD of the total forearm, ultradistal radius, and 1/3 distal radius in female collegiate gymnasts to a group of athletic controls (collegiate distance runners) and a group of non-athletic controls (non-athletes). METHODS: Female collegiate artistic gymnasts (n = 11), female collegiate distance runners (n = 9), and female college-age non-athletes (n = 25) each underwent a whole-body dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan to determine total body BMD and body composition and a forearm DXA scan to determine site-specific BMD of the dominant forearm. Weight and height were assessed and body mass index was calculated. Data for athletes were collected after the midpoints of their competitive seasons. All subjects were apparently healthy and between 18 and 22 years of age. RESULTS: Significant differences were found in BMD of the total forearm, ultradistal radius, and 1/3 distal radius between gymnasts and distance runners (p < 0.001) and between gymnasts and non-athletes (p < 0.001), with gymnasts demonstrating greater BMD at the three forearm sites. Gymnasts also exhibited higher total body BMD than non-athletes (p < 0.01). Total body BMD in gymnasts was not significantly different than total body BMD in distance runners. Differences between runners and non-athletes were not significant. CONCLUSION: This population of gymnasts exhibited greater site-specific BMD at both cortical and trabecular forearm sites when compared to athletic and non-athletic controls. The loading impact and forearm site-specificity of gymnastics exercise likely caused the differences in BMD. Implications of this research suggest the exploration of training avenues to approximate gymnastics loading in the upper-body to improve forearm BMD and prevent forearm fracture in non-gymnast populations.

Alcohol has long been used in endurance sport as a presumed performance enhancer. Light beer supplies approximately the same amount of kcal as a sports beverage and includes a small amount of alcohol. In recent years, non-alcoholic beer has become widely available and may proffer the same response as light beer. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether light beer or non-alcoholic beer was either ergogenic or ergolytic for endurance performance lasting one hour. METHODS: Nine trained subjects (5 male, 4 female) completed the study. Subjects performed one-hour bicycle time trials in a laboratory setting on three occasions with different treatments: Light beer, Non-alcoholic beer, or Water. Beer was administered by weight-dependent dose in order to induce a low blood alcohol content while simultaneously providing kcal equivalent to a sports beverage. The volume of Non-alcoholic beer and Water was matched to the volume of Beer. Order of administration was randomized and blind. Subjects' bicycles were mounted on stationary trainers and all subjects performed the one-hour rides simultaneously to simulate race conditions. Calibrated bicycle computers were used to monitor and record distance traveled. Performance was assessed by distance completed during the trials. RESULTS: Completed mean distances in meters for females were: Water 24,211; Non-alcoholic beer 24,631; and Light beer 23,899. Total mean distances in meters for males were: Water 30,355; Non-alcoholic beer 30,983; and Light beer 31,224. Non-alcoholic beer significantly improved performance for females. Light beer significantly improved performance for males and significantly decreased performance for females. CONCLUSION: Non-alcoholic beer was observed to be ergogenic for female subjects whereas Light beer was observed to be ergogenic for males while being ergolytic for females.

The participant will differentiate methods to estimate energy expenditure for college athletes and as a result of assessment of the research, be able to contrast these methods based on the evidence provided.

PURPOSE: Fitness assessments of athletes usually include a measure of body composition. The purpose of this study was to examine whether five different Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) instruments varied in their estimates of body composition. The five instruments were the Tanita BF-350, Tanita BF-522, Omron HBF-500, Omron HBF-306, and Omron HBF-300. METHODS: Criterion body composition was measured using DEXA (Lunar Prodigy Advance). In addition, body composition was estimated using skinfolds (SKF). Subjects of the study were 35 college baseball players. Mean (+SD) subject characteristics were age 20.17 (+1.36) yrs, height 1.82 (+0.06) m, weight 88.45 (+9.50) kg, and body mass index (BMI) 26.69 (+2.20) Kg/m2. RESULTS: The percent body fat results were as follows: the Tanita BF-350 = 14.67 + 3.77, the Tanita BF-522 = 14.92 + 3.85, the Omron HBF-500 = 22.47 + 4.51, the Omron HBF-306 = 14.84 + 3.23, the Omron HBF-300 = 15.70 + 4.27, SKF = 18.74 + 6.45, and the DEXA = 20.31 + 7.28. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc paired sample t-tests. A significant F (F = 567.485, p <.001) was found for the 7 different measures of body composition. Post-hoc tests showed statistically significant differences between the DEXA and all the other estimates of body composition. CONCLUSIONS: Although the SKF underestimated body composition and the Omron HBF-500 overestimated body composition the results of this study suggest that for college baseball players the Omron HBF-500 and SKF may provide a valid assessment of body composition in non-laboratory settings. However, the other four BIA instruments all significantly underestimated percent body fat.

The participant will understand the limitations of using email as a method to support health intervention and will comprehend the application of Stages of Change Theory to development and assessment of program development.

During pregnancy there are a number of physiological adaptations that need to be considered when developing or adapting exercise programs. These considerations are discussed along with the impact of exercise on the developing fetus.