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        <title>Frontiers in Physiology | Exercise Physiology section | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/sections/exercise-physiology</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Exercise Physiology section in the Frontiers in Physiology journal | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
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        <pubDate>2026-05-09T11:52:12.986+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796624</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796624</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Exercise evokes retained motor performance without neuroprotection in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Henry M. Skelton</author><author>Nathaniel Hyman</author><author>Alejandra M. Fernandez</author><author>Emma Acerbo</author><author>Madison Scott</author><author>Ken Berglund</author><author>Claire-Anne Gutekunst</author><author>Robert E. Gross</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Exercise has been extensively studied in Parkinson’s Disease, with a particular focus on the potential for neuroprotection that has been demonstrated in animal models. While this preclinical work has provided insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms, it has not addressed the neurophysiological changes during exercise. Here, first, we tested for neuroprotective effects of adaptive wheel running exercise in the 6-hydroxydopamine mouse model of Parkinson’s disease, assessing for dopamine cell preservation. Finding none, despite running performance that equaled the pre-parkinsonian state, we probed the neurophysiology of running exercise as a transient state of high motor function amidst an unameliorated Parkinsonian lesion. Exercise was associated with characteristic, excitatory changes in the dopamine-depleted substantia nigra, which could be suppressed along with running itself by dopamine receptor blockade. Going forward, the functional state evoked by exercise merits further study, as it has parallels in human disease and may represent an optimal physiologic target for neuromodulation.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1785061</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1785061</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A theoretic predictive model to simulate the interference effects of acute aerobic exercise on rate of force development in weightlifters]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Emidio E. Pistilli</author><author>Alan D. Mizener</author><author>Stuart A. Clayton</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionCompelling data supports the concept that concurrent strength and aerobic training can interfere with adaptations to strength training related to speed, power, and rate of force development (RFD). Studies on this topic have primarily utilized non-athlete participants, with data subsequently extrapolated to athlete populations. Since there may be hesitancy to have athletes involved in research on the interference effects of aerobic exercise on strength specific adaptations, we built a model to simulate these effects and developed an equation to predict interference. The hypothesis tested in this project was that aerobic exercise is the main driver of interference on weightlifting-associated RFD, and that this interference can be modeled to generate an equation to predict changes to RFD. MethodsPython software was used to generate the model, perform the simulation, and optimize variables that contribute to the interference effect. A theoretical nonlinear exponential interference model was created that simulates the changes in RFD from a force-time curve in response to acute aerobic exercise lasting from 2-minutes to 60-minutes in duration. ResultsRFD sensitivity to aerobic exercise was modeled such that maximal RFD values were predicted to be reduced by approximately 70% after aerobic exercise less than 10 minutes, with further predicted reductions of 80% with durations greater than 10-minutes.DiscussionThe prediction equation includes variables that can be adjusted by coaches, such as the rate of decay and the RFD scaling factor, to predict the interference of acute aerobic exercise on RFD in strength athletes. This would theoretically allow the coach to make informed decisions on training program design if there is a need to include aerobic exercise in a strength and/or power-based periodized plan. The simulation model described herein is theoretical and has not yet been empirically validated.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1793768</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1793768</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Anatomical spatial-temporal distribution and multivariate risk of acute injuries in elite rugby: a cohort based on prospective surveillance]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Zhuo Chen</author><author>Xue Wang</author><author>Xiaodong Mei</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundAcute injuries are common in rugby and threaten both player health and career longevity. Previous studies often focused on isolated risk factors, while limited research has comprehensively examined the interplay of physiological, environmental, and situational variables.MethodsStudy conducted A cohort study of 40 elite male players from the Tianjin Rugby Team was conducted, monitoring 575 match exposures across 2.5 consecutive seasons (2022–2025). Acute injuries were defined according to international consensus criteria and verified by medical staff. Spatiotemporal distributions (seasonal variation, match stage, playing position, and body site) were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression. Multivariate models were applied to identify independent risk factors, including demographic, training, and environmental variables.ResultsA total of 143 acute injury events were recorded, with bone and joint injuries most prevalent (48.2%), and the majority classified as moderate-to-severe (78.3%). Injury incidence rate rose significantly across seasons (127.9 per 1,000 player-hours in 2024/25 vs. 43.3 in 2022/23, representing a 1.83-fold increase), and advanced competition stages showed higher risks (OR for finals = 7.06 vs. group stage, p<0.001). GEE analysis demonstrated that the 2023/24 season, semi-finals and finals, forward position, no previous injury history, and higher training load were associated with elevated acute injury risk among rugby players (all P<0.05), while higher temperature served as a protective factor (P<0.001); age, BMI, exercise level, fatigue, and training years showed no significant effects.ConclusionsAcute injury risk in rugby demonstrates clear spatiotemporal patterns and is strongly influenced by both individual and environmental factors. The model developed provides a practical basis for targeted prevention strategies, including load management, environmental adaptation, and individualized recovery protocols. These findings can serve as a reference for coaches and medical teams at elite Chinese rugby clubs—particularly those adopting training-competition models—to optimize training and competition management.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1820135</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1820135</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Biomechanical effects of squatting movements in Tai Chi on the knee joint]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Haibin Liu</author><author>Wenxiao He</author><author>Guang Yang</author><author>Suheng Li</author><author>Liqing Liu</author><author>Fan Gao</author><author>Shudong Yan</author><author>Ziyang Wang</author><author>Fengjie Ran</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundSquatting is essential for daily activities but may risk knee injury due to excessive loads. Tai Chi squatting (TCS), characterized by slow, controlled movements, is hypothesized to reduce joint load compared to standard squatting (SS), though biomechanical comparisons remain scarce. This study aimed to biomechanically compare TCS and SS, with a focus on knee joint kinematics, kinetics, muscle activation, and internal stress distribution.MethodsTwelve experienced Tai Chi practitioners (6 males, 6 females) participated in this study. Participants performed TCS and SS in a controlled laboratory setting. Three-dimensional kinematics were captured with a VICON system, ground reaction forces were measured using AMTI force platforms, and muscle activation was recorded via surface electromyography (sEMG) using the Noraxon Ultium EMG system. The data were processed with an OpenSim musculoskeletal model, and finite element analysis was conducted using Ansys SpaceClaim and Ansys Workbench to evaluate internal knee joint stress distributions.Results(1) Kinematics and Kinetics: Compared with SS, TCS produced a markedly smoother knee flexion–extension angle time profile (p < 0.001). TCS elicited significantly greater peak knee extension moments compared with SS (p < 0.001), particularly in male participants, and was associated with significantly elevated activation of the biceps femoris and sartorius, reflecting a shift toward posterior chain co-activation, resulting in a more balanced quadriceps-to-hamstring co-activation pattern. This tendency was particularly pronounced in female participants (p < 0.05). (2) Finite Element Stress Analysis: While the absolute difference in peak Von Mises stress on the femoral cartilage between SS and TCS was modest, TCS produced a qualitatively more homogeneous stress distribution across the articular surface, with the focal high-stress concentration pattern observed under SS notably attenuated. This improvement in load distribution morphology may carry greater functional relevance for long-term cartilage health than peak stress magnitude alone.ConclusionTCS promotes more balanced muscle co-activation and a more homogeneous intra-articular stress distribution compared with SS, potentially reducing the risk of localized cartilage fatigue, particularly in female practitioners. These findings support the integration of TCS into rehabilitation and conditioning programs.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1789909</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1789909</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of long-term functional training combined with blood flow restriction training on athletic performance and body composition in basketball athletes]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Di Wang</author><author>Moran Lyu</author><author>Zhiheng Li</author><author>Ming Li</author><author>Yuliu Tao</author><author>Aisong Zhu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundThis study examined the effects of a 24-week functional training (FT) and blood flow restriction combined with FT (BFR-FT) on athletic performance and body composition in athletes.MethodsTwenty-six male basketball players were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EG) or the control group (CG). The CG performed FT, while the EG performed BFR-FT, both for 24 weeks. Assessments were conducted at seven time points, every 4 weeks, measuring 1RM half-squat, 1RM squat, vertical jump, 30m sprint, agility, 17-return shuttle run, body weight, and limb circumference and skinfold thickness.Results(1) Significant time × group interactions were observed for 1RM half−squat and speed (P < 0.01). The EG showed superior speed (weeks 12, 20, P < 0.01) and 1RM half−squat (week 8, P = 0.02; weeks 12–24, P < 0.01). For 1RM squat and endurance, both interaction and time effects were significant (P < 0.05). For explosive power and agility, only time effects were significant (P < 0.01). (2) Significant interactions were found for body weight (P = 0.04), thigh circumference (P < 0.01), and calf skinfold thickness (P = 0.02), and the main effects of time were also significant (P < 0.01). For calf circumference and thigh skinfold thickness, only time effects were significant (P < 0.01).]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1822610</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1822610</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of low-load blood flow restriction resistance training on lower limb morphology and functional performance in male college table tennis athletes: a three-arm randomized controlled trial]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Hongjian Qu</author><author>Hong Wang</author><author>Lei Zhao</author><author>Rui Sun</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundHigh-load resistance training (HL-RT) is commonly utilized to enhance performance in competitive table tennis athletes. Low-load blood flow restriction training (BFR-RT) has emerged as an alternative approach under lower mechanical loads. Considering the importance of explosive power and rapid movements in table tennis, it is essential to evaluate how BFR-RT compares with traditional HL-RT in terms of strength, muscle hypertrophy, jump, and sprint performance. This study aimed to directly compare the effects of HL-RT and BFR-RT in male college table tennis players.Methods24 male college table tennis players were randomly divided into a BFR-RT group (n=8), HL-RT group (n=8), or control group (CON, n=8). Both BFR-RT and HL-RT groups performed RT, including squats, leg presses, and leg extensions, twice weekly for eight weeks. The BFR-RT group performed training at 30% of one-repetition maximum (1RM) with blood flow restriction, while the HL-RT group trained at 80% 1RM. The CON group engaged solely in regular table tennis training. Outcome measures—1RM, quadriceps cross-sectional area (QCSA), countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and 10-meter sprint time (T10m)—were assessed at baseline and post-intervention.ResultsSignificant group × time interaction effects were observed for 1RM, QCSA, CMJ height, and T10m (all p < 0.01). The HL-RT group demonstrated a significantly greater increase in 1RM than the BFR-RT group (20.5% vs. 12.9%, p < 0.01). In contrast, improvements in QCSA (+10.1% vs. +9.5%), CMJ height (+11.2% vs. +10.5%), and T10m (−5.1% vs. −4.8%) did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). The CON group showed no significant changes in any variable.ConclusionHL-RT appears to be effective for promoting strength development, while low-load BFR-RT may serve as a potential alternative to traditional HL-RT for enhancing muscle hypertrophy, as well as jump and sprint performance in competitive table tennis athletes.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796957</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796957</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of energy drinks on repeated sprint performance and cognitive function in athletes]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Clinical Trial</category>
        <author>Li An Liao</author><author>Pin Chia Pan</author><author>Chi Hsiang Hung</author><author>Yu Jui Li</author><author>Kun Tien Wu</author><author>Jie Ping Wang</author><author>Chien Wen Hou</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveEnergy drinks are often used by athletes before competitions to enhance their performance. Resent research has pointed out that the performance effects of select ingredients have been studied in-dividually, but not in combination with caffeine. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of caffeine, anserine and elderberry on cognitive function and repeated sprint performance of athletes during a high-intensity exercise protocol.MethodsWe employed a double-blind, randomized, counter balanced, and crossover design. Three types of supplements were tested: placebo, caffeine (220mg), and energy drink (220mg caffeine, 288mg anserine, 400 mg of elderberry, and 660 mg vitamins-minerals mixed). Twelve college athletes were recruited to complete repeated sprint tests on a cycle ergometer until they reached exhaustion and undertook a series of cognitive tasks during running.ResultsResults showed that energy drink group significantly improved repeated sprint performance and showed a potential to attenuate certain aspects of cognitive fatigue.ConclusionThe multi-ingredient energy drink significantly elevated total power output and attenuated the exercise-induced decline in cognitive performance. It might be a better strategy for athletes to optimize physical performance and mitigate cognitive fatigue.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07104188?intr=NCT07104188%20&rank=1, identifier NCT07104188.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1791522</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1791522</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Clinical evidence of exercise intervention in improving adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and frailty: a narrative literature review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Xiuli Mo</author><author>Zhengyu Duan</author><author>Weihong Zhang</author><author>Yongliang Jia</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundThe global aging process is accelerating with the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the elderly population. Frailty, a clinical syndrome closely related to age, is particularly prevalent in elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Previous studies indicated that some common mechanisms and exercise interventions may be an effective intervention for T2DM and frailty management.ObjectiveThis narrative literature review aimed to provide evidence to explore possible common mechanisms and the role of exercise in management of T2DM combined with frailty.MethodsPubMed was searched for mechanistic studies. PubMed and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring exercise for T2DM and frailty.ResultsMechanistic analysis on 33 studies identified overlapping pathophysiological pathways between T2DM and frailty including encompassing inflammaging, insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, mitochondrial impairment, and gut dysbiosis. Evidence synthesized from 20 RCTs demonstrates that multicomponent exercise interventions could reduce frailty, lower blood glucose levels, and improve muscle strength for patients with T2DM and frailty, potentially by modulating these shared pathways, and resistance training enhances insulin sensitivity and muscle synthesis via GLUT-4 upregulation and Akt/mTOR activation.ConclusionMulticomponent exercise and resistance training would be efficacy for elderly patients with T2DM and frailty through modulating the overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1789933</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1789933</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Virtual sailing exercise enhances motor performance while maintaining stable mental and neurochemical profiles in healthy adults: a pilot study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Radietya Alvarabie</author><author>Elissa Burjawi</author><author>Gurdeep Sarai</author><author>Yang Yun</author><author>Oren Tirosh</author><author>Denny Meyer</author><author>Junhua Xiao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesWhile virtual exercise is emerging as a new approach for clinical application, little is known about its roles in mental health management and neuroplasticity. We conducted the first exploratory investigation evaluating the multimodal effects of a virtual sailing (VSail) program in healthy adults with the long-term goal of establishing its feasibility for mental health management.MethodsHere, we conducted a single-arm clinical trial in 24 healthy adults (18–64 years) who completed one 30-min VSail session weekly for 6 weeks using the VSail-Trainer® simulator. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included motor function (hand grip strength, balance, and inertia) and mental health and clinical functioning self-report questionnaires (Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Perceived Stress Scale, Flanagan Quality of Life, Global Assessment of Functioning, and Health of the Nation Outcome Scales). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis was performed in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex to evaluate the response of key neurometabolites [gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate] to the VSail exercise program.ResultsWe found that the VSail program significantly enhanced grip strength in both dominant and non-dominant hands, and body balance. Hand inertial measurements across three axes showed no significant changes, indicating stable motor control and complexity. Mental health, clinical functioning, and neurometabolite levels remained stable, reflecting ceiling effects typical of healthy populations. Together, the results demonstrate that VSail effectively enhances motor performance while maintaining psychological and neurometabolic stability in healthy adults.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that virtual reality (VR)-based exercise, such as VSail, possesses strong potential as a safe, engaging, and scalable digital exercise strategy for future clinical applications, paving the way for understanding the role of virtual exercise in the muscle–brain axis.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1827919</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1827919</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Exercise-induced modulation of astrocyte in Alzheimer’s disease: mechanisms and therapeutic implications]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Lei Shi</author><author>Jiding Xie</author><author>Tianjiao Dai</author><author>Mingzheng Zhang</author><author>Taoshuo Yang</author><author>Limei Sheng</author><author>Qiguan Jin</author><author>Jingang Dai</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, tau pathology, and chronic neuroinflammatory responses, although the relative contribution of these processes varies across disease stage and patient population. Current pharmacological therapies provide limited symptomatic benefit or modest disease-slowing effects in selected populations, underscoring the need for safe and sustainable adjunctive interventions. Astrocytes are central regulators of synaptic homeostasis, metabolic support, vascular coupling, and perivascular solute clearance, and these functions are profoundly altered in AD. For heuristic purposes, reactive astrocytes are often described along an A1-like to A2-like spectrum, with the former associated with pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic programs and the latter with reparative and neurotrophic functions; however, emerging single-cell and spatial transcriptomic data indicate that astrocyte states in AD are heterogeneous and context dependent rather than strictly binary. Growing evidence, predominantly from preclinical studies, suggests that exercise may remodel astrocyte-associated inflammatory, metabolic, and clearance pathways, with potential benefits for AD-related pathology and cognition. In several rodent models, exercise has been associated with reduced expression of A1-like reactive markers, enhanced protective astrocyte-associated programs, improved astrocyte–neuron metabolic coupling, and better perivascular localization of aquaporin-4 (AQP4). These changes may contribute to reduced inflammatory signaling and more efficient clearance of Aβ and tau, although the extent to which AQP4-dependent perivascular clearance mechanisms mediate exercise benefits in humans remains uncertain. Here, we review current evidence on how exercise influences astrocyte biology in AD, distinguish preclinical from clinical findings, and discuss key translational modifiers—including exercise modality, disease stage, sex, and APOE genotype—to inform glia-aware therapeutic strategies and future exercise prescriptions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1837615</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1837615</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of plyometric training on strength, explosive performance, and agility in female team-sport athletes: a systematic review and three-level meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Zhuo Zeng</author><author>Peng Zhang</author><author>Chengyu Zhou</author><author>Zixin Wang</author><author>Junhao Li</author><author>Qi Xie</author><author>Haoran Li</author><author>Dongxu Huang</author><author>Yongmin Xie</author><author>Aiguo Zhou</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionPlyometric training (PT) is widely used in team sports, but its outcome-specific effects in female team sport athletes and the influence of key programming variables remain unclear.MethodsThis systematic review and three-level meta-analysis examined the effects of PT on strength, jumping, sprinting, throwing, and agility in female team sport athletes and explored whether training frequency, intervention duration, and ground contacts per session moderated these effects. Randomized and non-randomized controlled trials were identified through database searches and manual screening. A three-level random-effects meta-analysis with cluster-robust variance estimation was performed. Subgroup analyses and meta-regressions examined potential moderators, and certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Thirty-six studies involving 921 participants were included.ResultsPT significantly improved vertical jump (SMD = 0.67), horizontal jump (SMD = 0.70), sprint (SMD = -0.85), throwing (SMD = 0.91), and agility (SMD = -1.09). Effects on strength were inconsistent (p = 0.0025), with improvements in upper-body (SMD = 1.09) but not lower-body strength (SMD = 0.08). Competitive level moderated agility outcomes, whereas age was not a consistent moderator. Meta-regression showed no clear associations of training frequency, intervention duration, or ground contacts per session with performance changes. Certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate.Discussion/conclusionPT can be an effective training strategy for improving multiple outcomes in female team sport athletes, particularly jumping, sprinting, throwing, and agility. However, adaptations appear outcome-specific, and evidence is insufficient to identify programming variables that consistently influence outcomes. Further studies with larger and more diverse samples are needed.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420261328856, identifier CRD420261328856.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1821632</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1821632</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects and adaptation of high-altitude hypoxia on lipid metabolism: mechanisms and health implications]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Yu Fan</author><author>WeiWei Guo</author><author>LiXin Yang</author><author>HaiQi Xu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[High-altitude environments impose substantial metabolic constraints on human physiology, with oxygen limitation driving profound alterations in lipid regulation. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the context-dependent effects of high-altitude hypoxia (HAH) on systemic lipid metabolism across high-altitude native populations and lowlanders exposed to altitude, with particular attention to Tibetan and Andean settings. Acute hypoxic exposure is characterized by rapid lipid mobilization, enhanced glycolytic flux, suppressed lipoprotein lipase activity, and dynamic fluctuations in circulating lipids. In contrast, acclimatization and long-term adaptation are associated with a shift toward more oxygen-efficient substrate utilization, often accompanied by reduced fatty-acid oxidation, improved insulin sensitivity, and population-specific changes in lipid profiles. However, in non-acclimatized or metabolically vulnerable individuals, sustained HAH exposure may also promote dyslipidemia, inflammation, and adverse cardiometabolic effects. By integrating evidence on HIF-mediated metabolic reprogramming, neuroendocrine regulation, genetic adaptation, and the microbiota–bile acid axis, this review highlights the heterogeneity of lipid responses to hypoxia and discusses their implications for cardiometabolic risk, preventive medicine, and future altitude-related metabolic research.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1793253</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1793253</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Integrated cardiovascular and respiratory training as a novel therapeutic approach in a case of painful left bundle branch block]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Oscar Crisafulli</author><author>Venere Quintiero</author><author>Caio V. Spaggiari</author><author>Anna Odone</author><author>Giuseppe D’Antona</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundLeft bundle branch block (LBBB) is a heart rate (HR)–dependent cardiac conduction disorder that may occur in the absence of structural heart disease and can be associated with painful episodes. Evidence supporting exercise-based interventions in this setting is limited. We report the case of a 41-year-old woman with paroxysmal, painful LBBB, with onset occurring marginally above resting HR.MethodsAfter a diagnostic evaluation demonstrating preserved biventricular function, absence of myocardial ischemia, and normal hemodynamic responses, a 10-month supervised training program was implemented in three sequential phases: (1) diaphragmatic breathing exercise; (2) aerobic exercise performed below the individual LBBB HR threshold; (3) interval and steady-state aerobic exercise prescribed according to individually determined ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2). Resting HR, HR at LBBB onset, maximal oxygen consumption (V˙O2max), ventilatory thresholds, and their associated HRs were longitudinally assessed.ResultsAfter training, resting HR decreased by 15 bpm, while HR at LBBB onset increased by 50 bpm, markedly expanding the safe exertional window. V˙O2max improved progressively, together with upward shifts in VT1 and VT2, and reductions in corresponding HRs. Importantly, the patient reported resolution of LBBB-related pain during daily activities and even when LBBB was occasionally elicited at higher exercise intensities.ConclusionsThis case suggests that a tailored respiratory and aerobic training program may safely improve cardiovascular efficiency, functional capacity, and symptom control in a patient with painful, HR-dependent LBBB. Individualized exercise training may represent a non-invasive adjunct or alternative to pharmacological or pacing strategies in selected patients.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1809614</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1809614</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of different exercises on motor and non-motor abilities in patients with Parkinson disease—a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Jianfeng Tang</author><author>Xinhong Liu</author><author>Jianqiang Guan</author><author>Sitao Li</author><author>Zenghui Xing</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveTo systematically investigate and evaluate the effects of different exercise (TT: treadmill training; ST: sensorimotor training; NW: Nordic walking; CT: cycling training; WT: walking training; DT: dance training; VRT: VR training; RT: resistance training; AQT: aquatic training; BOX: boxing training; Qigong and Yoga) modalities on both motor and non-motor abilities in patients with Parkinson’s disease.MethodsRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning the impact of various exercise modes on motor and non-motor abilities in Parkinson’s patients were identified by searching the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane library, CINAHL and CNKI databases. The search period spanned from the inception of each database to December 2025. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.ResultsA total of 67 RCTs involving 2642 patients were included. Network meta-analysis results indicated that WT most effectively improved UPDRS-III (SUCRA=92.5%); DT was most effective in improving TUG (SUCRA=89.9%) and 6MWT (SUCRA=73.3%); NW best improved BBS (SUCRA=91.1%) and MoCA (SUCRA=91.1%). AQT best improved PDQ-39 (SUCRA=88.5%).ConclusionCurrent evidence suggests that exercise involving walking and dance, which stimulates neural regulation, can help improve motor function and cognitive abilities in people with Parkinson’s disease. Patients can choose exercises based on their current fitness level.Systematic review registrationhttps://osf.io/7x5kc/.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1820693</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1820693</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Analysis of player heart rate and stroke success in tennis drill scenarios]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ibrahim Cem Balci</author><author>Buse Cicek</author><author>Irem Sayin</author><author>Serkan Salturk</author><author>Onur Sarialioglu</author><author>Deniz Ozel</author><author>Nika Kakulia</author><author>Ali Anil Demircali</author><author>Huseyin Uvet</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Heart rate (HR) is a practical indicator of physiological load and arousal, yet its shot by shot relationship with tennis performance remains insufficiently characterized. We quantified associations between HR and stroke outcome and spatial accuracy during a standardized target based drill. The dataset comprised 8,197 shots from 23 players across 93 training sessions. HR was sampled at 1 Hz and temporally aligned to each shot using a fixed ±5 s window around the shot reference time, enabling the extraction of absolute HR levels, short term HR changes and HR intensity zones. Shot outcomes (successful/unsuccessful) and distance to the nearest target area corner were obtained using a camera based tracking system. Successful strokes were generally associated with lower HR levels (p< 0.001; small effects, r ≈ 0.17). Short term HR dynamics provided limited additional discrimination, with only pre-shot change showing a small difference between outcomes. HR intensity zones were associated with success (p< 0.001), with a greater proportion of successful strokes occurring in lower zones (Zones 1-3). Accounting for repeated shots within sessions and players, mixed-effects models were additionally fitted. Higher HR remained associated with lower odds of shot success (OR per 10 bpm = 0.957, 95% CI 0.953-0.961) and a model using heart rate at the shot instant yielded very similar estimates. The continuous distance outcome showed weaker evidence after hierarchical adjustment. Overall, shot-aligned HR monitoring may provide useful contextual information for interpreting performance during precision-focused drills. However, the modest effect sizes suggest that HR should be considered alongside technical and task-related indicators rather than as a primary basis for training decisions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1809119</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1809119</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Validity and reliability of a wearable armband for continuous sweat conductivity monitoring during exercise]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Antoine Ferrari</author><author>Sébastien Ratel</author><author>Serge Berthoin</author><author>Jean-Philippe Garnier</author><author>Georges Baquet</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionSweating is essential for thermoregulation during exercise but causes variable losses of water and sodium chloride (NaCl). Field-based methods to assess these losses are limited by sampling errors and the lack of real-time feedback. This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the BeOne armband for continuous measurement of sweat conductivity, used to estimate sweat [NaCl] equivalent in real time.MethodsTen armbands were first tested against standard NaCl solutions (5–120 mmol·L−1) to assess the validity of the conductivity measurement. Reliability was then examined in sixteen men who completed two 60-min cycling sessions at 150 W in temperate condition (24 ± 1 °C; 50 ± 10% RH) while wearing armbands on both forearms. Outcomes included sweat onset (defined as the time from exercise onset to first detection of sweat conductivity), sweat [NaCl] equivalent drift, and time-normalized [NaCl] equivalent kinetics.ResultsMeasured values showed minimal bias (0.28 mmol·L−1, 95% LoA: –1.21 to 1.77), very low CVs (0.5–2.6%), and excellent inter-device agreement (ICC = 1.00) for conductivity measurements. During exercise, sweat onset did not differ between arms or sessions, but showed moderate within-session (ICC = 0.72) and low between-session reliability (ICC = 0.29), indicating substantial day-to-day variability of this specific index. Drift indices and time-normalized [NaCl] equivalent kinetics revealed a reproducible temporal profile, characterized by an initial peak, a rapid decline, a gradual increase, and a plateau toward the end of exercise.ConclusionThe BeOne armband demonstrated excellent analytical validity for sweat conductivity measurement and reliable within-session characterization of conductivity-derived sweat electrolyte dynamics. Although conductivity-based [NaCl] equivalents do not represent a laboratory gold standard and remain sensitive to matrix effects and non-specific ionic contributions, this approach appears sufficiently robust for applied sport-science contexts requiring continuous monitoring.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1794580</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1794580</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of 12 weeks resistance training  on muscle quality and physical performance in normal-weight and obese older women]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Nicolás Vidal-Seguel</author><author>Alexis Sepúlveda-Lara</author><author>Juan Carranza-Leiva</author><author>Carlos Márquez</author><author>Nolberto Huard</author><author>Jorge Sapunar</author><author>Luis A. Salazar</author><author>Estefanía Nova-Lamperti</author><author>Gabriel Nasri Marzuca-Nassr</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Ageing and obesity are major public health issues, both associated with reductions in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. Muscle quality, which integrates the morphological and functional characteristics of skeletal muscle, is a key predictor of independence and mortality in older adults. Obesity is linked to additional structural and functional alterations in muscle during ageing, alongside a potential anabolic resistance. Although resistance training (RT) has been shown to improve muscle mass and quality in older adults, evidence in older women with obesity remains limited. This study aimed to compare the effects of a 12-week progressive, whole-body RT programme on muscle quality parameters and physical performance in women aged 60–79 years with obesity (68 ± 4.21 years; body mass index [BMI] = 33.01 ± 2.62 kg/m²; body fat percentage= 42.23% ± 2.98%; n = 16) versus age-matched normal-weight women (66 ± 4.31 years; BMI = 22.60 ± 1.36 kg/m²; body fat percentage= 33.11% ± 3.61%; n = 14). RT was performed three times per week for 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention, morphological indicators of muscle quality (quadriceps muscle thickness and echointensity) and physical performance were assessed. Both groups showed significant post-training improvements in quadriceps thickness (time effect, p < 0.001); maximal strength in leg extension, leg flexion, leg press, chest press, and elbow extension (p < 0.001), lower-limb power, and muscle quality index (p < 0.001), as well as physical performance (p < 0.001); In conclusion, although the increase in muscle thickness and the reduction in body fat percentage were only significant in the normal-weight group, 12 weeks of RT are effective in improving functional parameters of muscle quality and physical performance in normal-weight and obese older women. This supports RT as an effective strategy to optimise musculoskeletal health in this population.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1853138</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1853138</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Correction: Effects of exercise regimens on balance ability in older patients with osteoporosis: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-29T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Correction</category>
        <author>Xiangyue Liu</author><author>Mengjing Chang</author><author>Huiyun Yuan</author><author>Xuemei Zheng</author><author>Wenling Tian</author><author>Dongwen Li</author><author>Dongfa Liao</author><author>Lin Cui</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1807399</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1807399</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Physiological associations with heart rate–speed decoupling during a half-marathon in adolescent endurance runners]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-29T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Weiyu Wang</author><author>Ruihang Zhou</author><author>Guangze He</author><author>Yumeng Si</author><author>Yongqin Cao</author><author>Pengxi Zheng</author><author>Wei Zi</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionFrom a process-oriented perspective of endurance durability, this exploratory study aimed to characterize the dynamic evolution of heart rate–running speed decoupling during a simulated half-marathon in adolescent endurance athletes and to examine phase-specific associations between decoupling characteristics and physiological regulation.MethodsThirteen adolescent endurance runners with systematic endurance training completed a 21.1-km simulated half-marathon under self-paced conditions. Heart rate and running speed were recorded continuously and aggregated into consecutive 2-km distance segments. Internal and external loads were normalized to individual maximal heart rate and running speed at VO2peak, respectively, and used to derive a relative heart rate–running speed decoupling index (DMi). Decoupling characteristics included the distance of decoupling onset (Onset), maximal decoupling magnitude (DMmax), and mean decoupling during the late phase of exercise (15–20 km). Core body temperature, interstitial glucose concentration, and sweat-derived estimates of fluid and sodium loss were monitored concurrently. Associations were examined using Spearman correlation analysis.ResultsHeart rate–running speed decoupling increased progressively throughout the run and showed substantial inter-individual variability. The median decoupling onset occurred at 10.0 km (interquartile range: 7.0–12.0 km). An earlier onset was associated with greater concurrent increases in core body temperature (ρ = −0.579, p = 0.038) and sodium loss per unit distance (ρ = −0.605, p = 0.037). The maximal decoupling magnitude (DMmax) was positively correlated with changes in core body temperature (ρ = 0.632, p = 0.021) and sodium loss per unit distance (ρ = 0.643, p = 0.024). In contrast, the change in decoupling during the final stage of the run (15–20 km) was not associated with thermoregulatory or fluid–electrolyte indices but was positively correlated with changes in glucose concentration (ρ = 0.599, p = 0.031).DiscussionDuring a simulated half-marathon, heart rate–running speed decoupling evolved progressively in adolescent endurance athletes and demonstrated marked inter-individual variability. Decoupling onset and maximal magnitude were primarily associated with thermoregulatory and electrolyte-related physiological loads during the early to middle stages of exercise, whereas decoupling dynamics in the latter stage were more closely aligned with physiological responses related to energy supply regulation. These findings support heart rate–running speed decoupling as a durability-related indicator with phase-specific physiological characteristics during prolonged endurance exercise.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1823162</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1823162</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The effects of kinesio taping on dynamic balance in patients with chronic ankle instability: a systematic review and meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Shilong Meng</author><author>Xinlei Fu</author><author>Yawei Xu</author><author>Xu Zhang</author><author>Zhiliang Peng</author><author>Yanguang Cao</author><author>Binbin Tang</author><author>Xiaolin Shi</author><author>Kang Liu</author><author>Jiepeng Zhu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundKinesio taping (KT) is commonly used as an adjunct in the rehabilitation of chronic ankle instability (CAI) and is proposed to enhance proprioception and dynamic stability. However, evidence regarding its clinical effectiveness remains inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the effects of KT on dynamic balance and related functional outcomes in individuals with CAI.MethodsWe systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and the VIP Database, covering the period from the inception of each database to 1 October 2025. Randomized controlled trials or randomized crossover trials involving KT intervention for CAI patients were included. Outcome measures included Y-balance test (YBT) scores (anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) scores (anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral), and Single Hop Distance Test (SHDT). The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess study quality, and the certainty of evidence for the outcomes was evaluated using the GRADE approach. Meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 18.0 software, with results presented as standardized mean differences (SMD) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).ResultsA total of 8 studies involving 190 participants from 4 countries/regions were included. Compared with the control group, the KT group showed a small but significant improvement in the YBT total score (SMD = 0.269, 95% CI: 0.031-0.508), YBT posterolateral score (SMD = 0.385, 95% CI: 0.106-0.664), and SEBT anterior score (SMD = 0.686, 95% CI: 0.083-1.289), suggesting that KT may exert a modest beneficial effect on dynamic balance in certain directions. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between groups for SEBT total score, posteromedial and posterolateral directions, or SHDT (P>0.05).ConclusionCurrent evidence suggests that KT may provide a modest, direction-specific improvement in dynamic balance in individuals with CAI, while additional benefits for functional performance remain uncertain. KT may be considered a simple and low-cost adjunct to comprehensive rehabilitation (e.g., strengthening, proprioceptive, and balance training), but should not replace conventional interventions. Further high-quality trials with standardized taping protocols and medium- to long-term follow-up are needed.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251165413.]]></description>
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