Physiology Commons^™

Effects Of Supramaximal Anderson Quarter-Squats As A Potentiating Stimulus On Discus Performance In Division I Throwers: A Pilot Study, Ogochukwu I. Nwachukwu, Mark Debeliso Phd, Marcus M. Lawrence Phd

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(6): 99-114, 2024. No study has assessed supramaximal (over 100% 1RM) back squat variations as a potentiating stimulus in collegiate throwers. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that a supramaximal Anderson (bottom-up) quarter squat potentiating stimulus would improve discus throw performance in Division I throwers compared to a dynamic warm-up alone. Nine NCAA division I thrower athletes (age: 20.1±1.4 years; 1RM back squat/body weight: 2.5±0.4 kg) randomly completed two sessions separated by at least 72 hours. One session involved a standardized dynamic warm-up alone (DyWU) followed by three trials of maximal …

The Effects Of Accessory Blood Flow Restriction Training On Muscle Size And Strength In Division Iii Soccer Athletes: A Preliminary Ecological Study, Kaitlyn Judd, Christian Morales, Megan White, Kate Wilkie, Justin Faller, Stephen Ives

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 16(6): 1244-1256, 2023. Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) uses occlusion during low-intensity resistance training (< 50% of 1-repetition maximum, 1RM) to reduce arterial blood flow and venous return, imposing greater metabolic stress but similar muscular hypertrophy and strength gains as high-intensity resistance training (HIRT). However, no study, to date, has incorporated BFRT in a collegiate strength and conditioning setting to assess ecological validity. We aimed to investigate the effects of adding 6-weeks of accessory BFRT or HIRT to NCAA Division III soccer players prescribed resistance training regimen on muscle strength and size. Male and female (n = 17) athletes were randomly assigned to complete biceps curls 2x/week under BFRT or control (HIRT), following regularly scheduled strength training. Bicep strength (1RM) and circumference (BC) were assessed at weeks 0, 3, and 6 (men only). In men, for BC no significant interaction of condition x time was observed (p = 0.861), though condition (BFRT vs Control, p = 0.025) and time (p = 0.024) were significant. For 1RM, there was no significant interaction of condition …

Muscle Architecture And Maximal Strength Between Male Practitioners Of Functional Fitness Training And Strength Training, Silas Nery De Oliveira, Grazieli Maria Biduski Zapello, Débora Aparecida Knihs, Gabriela Fischer, Antônio Renato Pereira Moro

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 16(7): 1142-1153, 2023. Functional Fitness Training (FFT) is a very popular training method in recent years. However, the combination of aerobic and strength components of this training method raised the hypothesis of impaired strength and muscle structure when compared to Strength Training (ST). Thus, the study aimed to compare muscle architecture and strength between FFT and ST, and the relationship between muscle architecture and maximum strength performance. Males (28.46 ± 6.03 years), nonathletes, and practitioners for two years in FFT (n = 8) and ST (n = 8), in addition to males classified as physically …

Does Beta-Alanine Supplementation Potentiate Muscle Performance Following 6 Weeks Of Blood Flow Restriction Or Traditional Resistance Training?, Kassiana De Araujo Pessoa, Jason Michael Cholewa, Rayssa Sousa-Silva, Xia Zhi, Alessandro M. Zagatto, Antonio Herbert Lancha-Jr, Jakob D. Lauver, Fabricio Eduardo Rossi, Nelo Zanchi

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 16(2): 999-1011, 2023. We aimed to compare the effects of beta-alanine on Traditional Resistance Training (TRAD) or Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR). Methods: 19 subjects were randomly allocated to a Placebo (n = 10) or beta-alanine (n = 9) group. Subjects from both groups were trained unilaterally (unilateral arm curl) for six weeks, and each arm was trained using a different paradigm (BFR or TRAD). One repetition maximum (1RM) test measurements were performed before and after the strength training program. Work output was accessed as the total weight lifted (repetitions × weight lifted …

Neuromuscular Responses To Failure Vs Non-Failure During Blood Flow Restriction Training In Untrained Females, Christopher E. Proppe, Taylor M. Aldeghi, Paola Rivera, David H. Gonzalez-Rojas, Ethan C. Hill Phd

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 16(1): 293-303, 2023. Applying blood flow restriction (BFR) during resistance exercise is a potent stimulus of muscular adaption, but there is little direct comparison of its effect on neuromuscular function. The purpose of this investigation was to compare surface electromyography amplitude and frequency responses during a 75 (1 × 30, 3 × 15) repetition bout (BFR-75) of BFR to 4 sets to failure (BFR-F). Twelve women (mean ± SD age = 22 ± 4 years; body mass = 72 ± 14.4 kg; height = 162.1 ± 4.0 cm) volunteered for the investigation. One leg was …

Effects Of Varying Load Intensity On Skeletal Muscle Damage Between Two Isovolumic Resistance Exercise Bouts, Lee J. Winchester, Cody E. Morris, Patton Allen, Teresa Wiczynski, Scott W. Arnett, T. Scott Lyons

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(4): 1212-1221, 2022. There are limited data comparing the efficacy of resistance loads within the hypertrophy range for promoting muscular growth, particularly when similar training volumes are utilized. The purpose of this study was to determine if two similar volume-loads, utilizing different intensities, would produce dissimilar muscular damage and inflammation. Eleven resistance-trained, college-aged males participated in this study. After testing 1RM barbell squats, participants completed two similar volume-load barbell squat sessions at two different resistance loads (67% and 85% of 1RM) on two separate visits. Venous blood samples were collected at baseline and one hour …

High And Low-Speed Resistance Training Induce Similar Physical And Functional Responses In Older Women, Ádria S. N. Noronha, Eduardo M. Penna, Rayra K. N. Dias, Antenor B. C. De Azevedo, Victor S. Coswig

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(4): 771-782, 2022. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-speed resistance training (HSRT) and low-speed resistance training (LSRT) in physical fitness, and functional performance in untrained older women. Twenty-four women (62.2 ± 2.7 years old) were allocated to the HSRT or LSRT groups. The HSRT and LSRT groups underwent a similar training program [3 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions at 90% of 10 maximum repetitions] for 14 weeks, twice a week. The LSRT group performed the exercises with 3 seconds in the concentric and eccentric phases, while the HSRT group performed with …

Effect Of Different Numbers Of Interset Antagonist Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching On The Total Number Of Repetitions For The Agonists, Humberto Miranda, Aline Aparecida De Oliveira, Juliana Soares Dos Santos Ribeiro, Fabio Henrique De Freitas, Juliana Brandão Pinto De Castro, Renato L. Alvarenga, Jeff Willardson

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(4): 498-506, 2022. Recent studies have observed that stretching applied to antagonist muscles can promote improvement in agonist muscle performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different numbers of interset proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching for the antagonists on the total number of repetitions completed for the agonists (quadriceps) in the leg extension exercise. Fourteen physically active individuals (age: 29.35 ± 10.5 years; body mass: 79.1 ± 11.34 kg; height: 170.4 ± 8.7 cm) participated in this study. The following experimental protocols were performed: 1) Traditional protocol (Traditional) …

Effect Of Different Training Programs At Self-Selected Intensity On Body Composition, Perceptual Responses And Fitness Outcomes In Obese Women, Ragami Chaves Alves, Alysson Enes, Lucio Follador, Jonato Prestes, Sérgio Gregório Da Silva

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(4): 373-385, 2022. Obesity induces several disorders, such as android obesity, insulin resistance, and coronary/peripheral artery disease, and obese individuals commonly have low adherence to training programs. Exercise at self-selected intensity is a feasible strategy to avoid dropouts of training routines. We aimed to assess the effects of different training programs at self-selected intensity on body composition, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), feelings of pleasure and displeasure (FPD) and fitness outcomes (maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximum dynamic strength (1RM)) in obese women. Forty obese women (n = 40; Body Mass Index: 33.2 ± …

Muscle Activity And User-Perceived Exertion During Immersive Virtual Reality Exergaming Incorporating An Adaptive Cable Resistance System, David Gomez, Jonathan D. Browne, Abdulrahman Almalouhi, Max Abundex, Jonathan Hu, Sally Nason, Nicholas Kull, Cade Mills, Quincy Harris, Richard Ku, Eric V. Neufeld, Brett A. Dolezal

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(7): 261-275, 2022. The purpose of this exploratory study was to characterize muscle activation via surface electromyography (sEMG), user-perceived exertion, and enjoyment during a 30-minute session of immersive virtual reality (IVR) cable resistance exergaming. Ten healthy, college-aged males completed a signature 30-minute exergaming session using an IVR adaptive cable resistance system that incorporated six traditional compound exercises. Muscle activation (sEMG) was captured during the session with a wearable sEMG system. Rated of Perceived Exertion (RPE) and Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) were recorded following the session. Pectoralis major showed the highest activation during chest press, …

Gut Microbiome And Metabolome Variations In Self-Identified Muscle Builders Who Report Using Protein Supplements, Lauri O. Byerley, Karyn M. Gallivan, Courtney J. Christopher, Christopher M. Taylor, Meng Luo, Scot E. Dowd, Gregory M. Davis, Hector F. Castro, Shawn R. Campagna, Kristin S. Ondrak

School of Graduate Studies Faculty Publications

Muscle builders frequently consume protein supplements, but little is known about their effect on the gut microbiota. This study compared the gut microbiome and metabolome of selfidentified muscle builders who did or did not report consuming a protein supplement. Twenty-two participants (14 males and 8 females) consumed a protein supplement (PS), and seventeen participants (12 males and 5 females) did not (No PS). Participants provided a fecal sample and completed a 24-h food recall (ASA24). The PS group consumed significantly more protein (118 ± 12 g No PS vs. 169 ± 18 g PS, p = 0.02). Fecal metabolome and …

Muscle Daily Undulating Periodization For Strength And Body Composition: The Proposal Of A New Model, Douglas Leão Peixoto, Bruno Magalhães De Castro, Anderson Geremias Macedo, Christiano Bertoldo Urtado, Paulo Soares Lima, Richard Leite, James W. Navalta, Jonato Prestes

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 15(4): 206-220, 2022. The traditional linear periodization model is designed for modifications to be performed over several weeks, whereas alterations in the undulating model are applied on a more frequent basis. The study investigated a novel periodization scheme, the muscle daily undulating periodization model (mDUP). Thirty-seven men were randomly assigned into 2 groups: (a) a group that performed 12 weeks of daily undulating periodization with fix overload (DUP-F) resistance training (n = 19) and (b) a group that performed 12-weeks of muscle daily undulating periodization with variation overload (mDUP) (n = 18). Body …

The Effect Of Rest Interval Length On Upper And Lower Body Exercises In Resistance-Trained Females, Desmond J. Millender, Zachary A. Mang, Jason R. Beam, Rogelio A. Realzola, Leonard Kravitz

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 14(7): 1178-1191, 2021. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of SHORT (1 min) and LONG (3 min) rest intervals (RI) on total volume lifted (TVL), repetition performance, fatigue index (FI), and blood lactate [La] during upper body (chest press) and lower body (leg press) exercise with low-intensity (75% of a 10-RM) in trained female lifters. Fourteen females (mean ± SD, age = 22.9 ± 5.4 years, training experience = 5.2 ± 2.5 years, height = 166.1 ± 6.9 cm, weight = 61.3 ± 5.1 kg, body fat % = 21.7 ± …

Effects Of Different Types Of Lower Body Resistance Exercise On Upper-Body Strength In Men And Women, With Special Reference To Anabolic Hormones, Johan Jakobsson, Apostolos Theos, Christer Malm

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 14(3): 1052-1069, 2021. Resistance exercise has been shown to induce an acute hormonal response. The purpose of this study was to examine upper-body adaptations and the endocrine response to strength training in men and women when subjected to two different types of lower-body resistance training protocols. Nine males and eight females were assigned to either a Heavy Load (HL) (N = 10) or Mixed Load (ML) (N = 7) training routine three times per week for ten weeks. The HL-group executed low-volume, high-load resistance exercise for both lower and upper-body (4-6 reps at …

Acute Effect Of Different Duration Of Foam Rolling Protocols On Muscle Thickness, Pain Pressure Threshold, And Volume Load On Multiple Sets Of Knee Extension, Felipe Alves Brigatto, Enrico Gori Soares, Tiago Volpi Braz, Júlio Benvenutti Bueno De Camargo, Charlini Simoni Hartz, Danilo Rodrigues Batista, Luan Oenning Col, Paulo Henrique Marchetti, Marcelo Saldanha Aoki, Charles Ricardo Lopes

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 14(3): 742-755, 2021. Previous studies investigated the effects of foam rolling (FR) on measurements of strength and power. However, the acute effect of FR on muscle thickness (MT) and pressure pain threshold (PPT) after multiple sets of resistance exercise remains to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of one and three minutes of quadriceps FR on muscle thickness (vastus lateralis [VL] and rectus femoris [RF]), pain threshold (VL and RF), and total load lifted (TLL) on multiple sets of knee extension. Nine resistance-trained men (age: 24.8 ± 5.2 …

Multi-Joint Vs Single-Joint Resistance Exercises Induce A Similar Strength Increase In Trained Men: A Randomized Longitudinal Crossover Study, Felipe Alves Brigatto, Júlio Benvenutti Bueno De Camargo, Witter Felipe De Ungaro, Moisés Diego Germano, Paulo Henrique Marchetti, Marcelo Saldanha Aoki, Tiago Volpi Braz, Charles Ricardo Lopes

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 13(4): 1677-1690, 2020. The type of exercise is a relevant resistance training-variable that might be manipulated in order to induce significant increases in muscle strength. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of multi-joint vs single-joint resistance exercises on maximal strength. Sixteen resistance-trained men (age: 23.1 ± 4.4 years; body mass: 86.0 ± 12.8; height: 177.9 ± 6.4 cm; training experience: 4.2 ± 3.4 years) performed one of the following training protocols for six weeks: MULTI, consisting of only multi-joint exercises or SINGLE, consisting of only single-joint exercises. Subjects were then submitted …

Donning A Novel Lower-Limb Restrictive Compression Garment During Training Augments Muscle Power And Strength, Jaxon T. Baum, Robert P. Carter, Eric V. Neufeld, Brett A. Dolezal

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 13(3): 890-899, 2020. The popularity of graduated compression garments (GCG) in sport and exercise is largely driven by the abundance of anecdotal claims suggesting their efficacy. A new line of compression apparel, restrictive compression garments (RCG), integrate novel resistance technology into lower-limb compression garments designed to provide variable resistance to movement. This study aimed to investigate the effect of donning an RCG during a 4-week training program on selected performance variables. Twelve college-aged males were recruited for four weeks of lower-body strength-power resistance training. Participants were randomized 1:1 and blinded to (i) an intervention group …

The Implementation Of Exercise For Chronic Kidney Disease And Dialysis Patients, Syed Ahmad Rizvi

Honors College Theses

While commonly known to be the organ that helps with urine production within the human body, the kidney plays one of the most crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis. When establishing all of the roles the kidney has on keeping humans healthy, there is the question of how does the body cope when a patient is diagnosed with kidney failure. One of the more common treatment options that allows the body to continue to function without a kidney is by beginning a patient on a form of dialysis. However, as with any treatment, there will always be a list of side …

Three Weeks Of Detraining Does Not Decrease Muscle Thickness, Strength Or Sport Performance In Adolescent Athletes, Simon Gavanda, Stephan Geisler, Oliver J. Quittmann, Helen Bauhaus, Thorsten Schiffer

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 13(6): 633-644, 2020. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of detraining following a block (BLOCK) or daily undulating periodized (DUP) resistance training (RT) on hypertrophy, strength, and athletic performance in adolescent athletes. Twenty-one males (age = 16 ± 0.7 years; range 15-18 years) were randomly assigned to one of two 12-week intervention groups (three full-body RT sessions per week): BLOCK (n = 9); DUP (n = 12). Subsequently a three-week detraining period was applied. Body mass, fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), muscle mass, muscle thickness (rectus femoris, vastus …

Is It Time To Rethink Our Weight Loss Paradigms?, Paulo Gentil, Ricardo Borges Viana, João Pedro Naves, Fabrício Boscolo Del Vecchio, Victor Coswig, Jeremy Loenneke, Claudio André Barbosa

Faculty and Student Publications

© 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. Strategies aiming to promote weight loss usually include anything that results in an increase in energy expenditure (exercise) or a decrease in energy intake (diet). However, the probability of losing weight is low and the probability of sustained weight loss is even lower. Herein, we bring some questions and suggestions about the topic, with a focus on exercise interventions. Based on the current evidence, we should look at how metabolism changes in response to interventions instead of counting calories, so we can choose more efficient models that can account for the …

In-Season Hip Thrust Vs. Back Squat Training In Female High School Soccer Players, Nicole A. Millar, Lauren M. Colenso-Semple, Robert G. Lockie, Risto H.J. Marttinen, Andrew J. Galpin

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 13(4): 49-61, 2020. The barbell back squat provides a highly effective training stimulus to improve lower body strength, speed, and power, which are considered key components of athletic performance in many sports. The barbell hip thrust exercise utilizes similar musculature, and is popular among practitioners, but has received far less scientific examination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of an in-season resistance training program with hip thrusts or back squats on physical performance in adolescent female soccer players. Fourteen players completed identical whole-body resistance training twice per week for 6 weeks, …

Post Exercise Hypotension Following Concurrent Exercise: Does Order Of Exercise Modality Matter?, Whitley J. Stone, Mark A. Schafer, Scott W. Arnett, Scott Lyons

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 13(2): 36-48, 2020. Cardiovascular (CV) and resistance training (RT) can moderate negative effects of aging, disease, and inactivity. Post-exercise hypotension (PEH) has been used as a non-pharmacological means to control and reduce BP. Few have evaluated PEH response following a bout of exercise combining CV and RT, whether or not there is an order effect, or if PEH continues when activities of daily living (ADLs) are resumed. Participants (N= 10) completed a non-exercise control, a graded exercise test (GXT), and two concurrent sessions (CVRT and RTCV). Each session was followed by a 60-minute …

Effects Of A Strength Training Intervention And Quality Of Life: Case Study On A Sedentary Adult Female, Lucas Frazier

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of the project is to evaluate physiological and quality of life changes in a

sedentary, senior-aged (55 or older) female using a six-week strength training

intervention. This case study will instruct how to perform a push-pull-legs split

routine by going to the gym three times per week. Prior to the six week intervention,

both quantitative and qualitative variables will be collected to assess baseline data,

including the subject’s resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, grip strength, one-

repetition maximum on seven whole body exercises (dumbbell bicep curl, tricep

pushdown, barbell bench press, wide-grip lat pull-down, seated dumbbell press, …

Comparison Of Single Leg Squat Variations On Lower Limb Muscle Activation And Center Of Pressure Alterations, Mary Grace Knoll, Mackenzie C. Davidge, Claire E. Wraspir, John A. Korak

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 12(1): 950-959, 2019. Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, individuals experience inadequate functioning of the quadriceps and decreased muscular strength. Decreased function delays return to physical activity and increases potential for re-injury. While several squat variations exist, a new variation has emerged in rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to compare muscle activation of the Vastus Lateralis (VL), Vastus Medialis (VM), Rectus Femoris (RF), Gluteus Maximus (GM), and anterior posterior center of pressure (AP displacement) alterations during a single leg squat variation (SLS variation) versus a traditional split squat using electromyography (EMG) in healthy active …

Effects Of Home-Based Exercise Training Systems, Combined With Diet, On Cardiometabolic Health, Christian K. Roberts, David E. Segovia, Eli Lankford

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 12(2): 871-885, 2019. The efficacy of exercise training systems designed to be used in the home on cardiometabolic outcomes remains largely unknown. This investigation included two studies. Study 1 tested the effects a multi-exercise pulley system(NordicTrack Fusion CST with video trainer) and Study 2 an incline trainer (NordicTrack X22i with video trainer), both combined with daily food provision, for 12-weeks on indices of cardiometabolic health. Study 1 enrolled 27 adults (11 men, 16 women, 33.8±4.4 years of age) and Study 2 enrolled 29 adults (11 men, 18 women, 40.8±12.5 years of age). Pre- and post-intervention …

Kinetic And Kinematic Characteristics Of Accentuated Eccentric Loading, John Wagle

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The current investigation was an examination of the kinetic and kinematic characteristics of the back squat using accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) and cluster set programming strategies. Trained male subjects (age = 26.1 ± 4.1 years, height = 183.5 ± 4.3 cm, body mass = 92.5 ± 10.5 kg, back squat to body mass ratio = 1.8 ± 0.3) volunteered to complete four different load condition sessions involving traditionally loaded straight sets (TL), traditionally loaded cluster sets (TLC), AEL cluster sets (AEC), and AEL straight sets where only the first repetition of each set used eccentric overload (AEL1). The use of …

The Impact Of Power Training On Balance And Visual Feedback Removal, Juliana Bouton

Juliana Bouton

Cell Free Dna As A Marker Of Training Status In Weightlifters, Jeremy A. Gentles, William G. Hornsby, Christine L. Coniglio, Andy R. Dotterweich, Jon A. Miller, Charles A. Stuart, Michael H. Stone

Jeremy A. Gentles

The purpose of this investigation was to elucidate the changes in cf-DNA as it relates to fluctuations in resistance training workloads and intensities. The relationship between cell free DNA (cf-DNA), C-reactive protein (CRP), creatine kinase (CK), testosterone (T), cortisol (C), testosterone-cortisol ratio (T:C), body mass and body composition were also examined. Eight weightlifters (5 males and 3 females, age = 25 ± 3.5 yr, body mass = 88.3 ± 22.7 kg, height = 173.8 ±8.4 cm) volunteered to participate in this study. Venous blood samples, body mass and body composition were taken six times, each corresponding to the end of …

Increases In Variation Of Barbell Kinematics Are Observed With Increasing Intensity In A Graded Back Squat Test, Kevin M. Carroll, Kimitake Sato, Caleb D. Bazyler, N. Travis Triplett, Michael H. Stone

Caleb D. Bazyler

The purpose of the current study was two-fold: (1) To examine the variation in velocity and power with increasing intensity in the back squat among subjects; and (2) To explore individual subject characteristics as possible explanations for variations of velocity in the back squat. Fourteen recreationally trained male subjects with experience in the back squat agreed to participate in the study (age = 25.0 ± 2.6 years, height = 178.9 ± 8.1 cm, body mass = 88.2 ± 15.8 kg). One-repetition maximums (1RM) were performed for each subject on force platforms with four linear position transducers attached to the barbell. …

Cell Free Dna As A Marker Of Training Status In Weightlifters, Jeremy A. Gentles, William G. Hornsby, Christine L. Coniglio, Andy R. Dotterweich, Jon A. Miller, Charles A. Stuart, Michael H. Stone

Andy R. Dotterweich

The purpose of this investigation was to elucidate the changes in cf-DNA as it relates to fluctuations in resistance training workloads and intensities. The relationship between cell free DNA (cf-DNA), C-reactive protein (CRP), creatine kinase (CK), testosterone (T), cortisol (C), testosterone-cortisol ratio (T:C), body mass and body composition were also examined. Eight weightlifters (5 males and 3 females, age = 25 ± 3.5 yr, body mass = 88.3 ± 22.7 kg, height = 173.8 ±8.4 cm) volunteered to participate in this study. Venous blood samples, body mass and body composition were taken six times, each corresponding to the end of …