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Aerobic Exercise And Sauna Recovery On Heart Rate Variability, Karla Pegueros, Michael D. Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Ouays Bakcha, Dylan Sabo, Nikita Strogalev, Veronika Kramarenko Feb 2026

Aerobic Exercise And Sauna Recovery On Heart Rate Variability, Karla Pegueros, Michael D. Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Ouays Bakcha, Dylan Sabo, Nikita Strogalev, Veronika Kramarenko

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sauna bathing is a commonly used tool that induces thermoregulatory physiological responses for recovery and cardiovascular health. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure to determine the body’s autonomic nervous system state and is used to assess recovery status. Although sauna exposure has been associated with a favorable HRV response, the effects of sauna bathing following aerobic exercise on post-exercise HRV remains unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of far infrared sauna bathing after aerobic exercise, compared to seated euthermic recovery, on HRV during post-exercise recovery. METHODS: Twenty college students (18-35 yrs) …


Delay In Increased Muscle Cross Sectional Area After Muscle Damage While Dehydrated, Sarah Walper, Casey Appell, Trinity Domonkos, Karina Olvera, Seth Bernardino, Jalyn Dunlap, Larry Munger, Hui-Ying Luk Feb 2026

Delay In Increased Muscle Cross Sectional Area After Muscle Damage While Dehydrated, Sarah Walper, Casey Appell, Trinity Domonkos, Karina Olvera, Seth Bernardino, Jalyn Dunlap, Larry Munger, Hui-Ying Luk

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

When muscles are damaged, the tears in the muscle fibers triggers an immune response and muscles experience inflammation. Inflammation increases WBC in the muscles to repair the micro tears. Muscle inflammation can be assessed by measuring the cross-sectional area (CSA) via ultrasound images. PURPOSE: To examine the effect of hydration status during recovery on muscle swelling after muscle damaging exercise. METHODS: Six recreationally active men (19 ± 1yr, 169.8 ± 8.3cm, 79.5 ± 11.7kg, Lean mass 58.6 ± 13.0kg, %body fat 28.3 ± 6.5%) completed two bouts of an identical muscle damaging exercise (DAM-EX) under a hydrated state and underwent …


Lower-Limb Lean Mass Asymmetry Ranges And Their Association With Jump Performance In Collegiate Athletes, Veronika Kramarenko, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Nikita Strogalev, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Karla Pegueros, Ouays Bakcha, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa Feb 2026

Lower-Limb Lean Mass Asymmetry Ranges And Their Association With Jump Performance In Collegiate Athletes, Veronika Kramarenko, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Nikita Strogalev, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Karla Pegueros, Ouays Bakcha, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

INTRODUCTION: Lower-limb asymmetries have gained increasing attention due to their potential influence on athlete health and performance. Previous research provides mixed findings on the impact of asymmetries on jump performance. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore lower-limb asymmetry ranges associated with changes in jump performance in a large, multi-sport cohort of athletes. METHODS:  A total of 721 NCAA Division I athletes (483 males, 239 females) from seven sports were included. Lower-limb asymmetries were calculated as the absolute difference between right and left limb values divided by the larger value and multiplied by 100. Asymmetries …


Relationship Between Overhead Squat Depth And Vertical Jump Height In Ncaa Division I Athletes, Ouays Bakcha, Brian Jones, Karla Pegueros, Veronika Kramarenko, Nikita Strogalev, Fatima Alonso, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Joshua Nate, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt Feb 2026

Relationship Between Overhead Squat Depth And Vertical Jump Height In Ncaa Division I Athletes, Ouays Bakcha, Brian Jones, Karla Pegueros, Veronika Kramarenko, Nikita Strogalev, Fatima Alonso, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Joshua Nate, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

INTRODUCTION: Movement screening and performance testing are commonly used in collegiate athletics to monitor readiness, guide training decisions, and reduce injury risk. The overhead squat (OHS) is frequently employed as a global assessment of lower-extremity mobility and movement capability, while vertical jump (VJ) height is a well-established indicator of explosive lower-body power. Although improved mobility is often assumed to support power development, the relationship between these measures across repeated testing sessions remains unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between overhead squat depth and vertical jump height across multiple testing timepoints in NCAA Division I …


Predicting Injury Risk In Ncaa Division I Athletes Using Biomechanical And Body Composition Screening Data, Nikita Strogalev, Vipa Bernhardt, Michael Oldham, Veronika Kramarenko, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Karla Pegueros, Ouays Bakcha, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa Feb 2026

Predicting Injury Risk In Ncaa Division I Athletes Using Biomechanical And Body Composition Screening Data, Nikita Strogalev, Vipa Bernhardt, Michael Oldham, Veronika Kramarenko, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Dylan Sabo, Fatima Alonso, Joshua Nate, Karla Pegueros, Ouays Bakcha, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

INTRODUCTION: Injuries are a significant concern in athletic populations, limiting performance, shortening careers, and negative impact on health. There is growing evidence that intrinsic factors such as body composition and biomechanical characteristics are associated with injury risk, with metrics like fat and muscle distribution linked to injury likelihood across multiple sports. Moreover, recent research has demonstrated that predictive models incorporating physiological and biomechanical variables can effectively estimate injury risk, supporting the feasibility of data-driven injury risk prediction in sport science. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess whether body composition and biomechanical measurements can be used …


Effects Of A Standardized Warm-Up On Dari Motion Analysis, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Karla Pegueros, Fatima Alonso, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Joshua Nate, Nikita Strogalev, Veronika Kramarenko, Dylan Sabo, Ouays Bakcha Feb 2026

Effects Of A Standardized Warm-Up On Dari Motion Analysis, Stephanie Tapia Ochoa, Michael Oldham, Vipa Bernhardt, Karla Pegueros, Fatima Alonso, Brian Jones, Bronwyn Banks, Joshua Nate, Nikita Strogalev, Veronika Kramarenko, Dylan Sabo, Ouays Bakcha

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Markerless motion capture systems, such as DARI ®, are commonly used to assess movement quality and performance in athletic and return-to-play settings. These assessments are often conducted without a standardized warm-up, potentially influencing neuromuscular readiness and performance outcomes. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a standardized dynamic warm-up on DARI ® performance scores and variables compared to a no warm-up condition. METHODS: Twenty-nine college students (18-35 years) completed two DARI motion analysis sessions using randomized crossover design: one session without a warm-up (CON) and one session following a 9 min standardized dynamic …


Physical And Psychological Changes In U.S. Air Force Rotc Cadets Throughout The Star Training Program, Sarah Parnell, Hunter Haynes, Sheena Puleali'i, Molly F. Johnson, Maria G. Kaylor, Andrew Addison, Austin J. Graybeal Feb 2026

Physical And Psychological Changes In U.S. Air Force Rotc Cadets Throughout The Star Training Program, Sarah Parnell, Hunter Haynes, Sheena Puleali'i, Molly F. Johnson, Maria G. Kaylor, Andrew Addison, Austin J. Graybeal

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

PURPOSE: U.S. Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) cadets face unique military preparedness pressures that may heighten risk for negative body image and maladaptive eating behaviors. Such behavioral and body image concerns can meaningfully undermine health, performance, and readiness, yet remain underexplored relative to physical outcomes in pre-military populations. This study examined longitudinal changes in body composition and physical fitness assessment (PFA) scores alongside various psychosocial factors across a 12-week S&C program in AFROTC cadets. METHODS: Forty-six AFROTC cadets (21 F, 25 M; age: 20±3y; BMI: 24.0±3.9kg/m²; BF%: 26.1±8.2%) completed the Supporting Tactical Athletes for Readiness (STAR) …


Exercise Training Attenuates Cd8 T Cell Exhaustion, But Not Glucose Intolerance, Following Weight Cycling, Okechukwu K. Oforka, Emily C. Lavoy, Heather L. Caslin Feb 2026

Exercise Training Attenuates Cd8 T Cell Exhaustion, But Not Glucose Intolerance, Following Weight Cycling, Okechukwu K. Oforka, Emily C. Lavoy, Heather L. Caslin

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Obesity increases the risk of glucose intolerance and CD8 T cell exhaustion, which indicates an impaired immune function. While weight loss mitigates these risks, most individuals regain weight (weight cycling), which worsens both conditions. Exercise training protects against glucose intolerance and attenuates T cell exhaustion, but its protective role during weight cycling remains unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether exercise training can prevent glucose intolerance and attenuate CD8 T cell exhaustion following weight cycling in mice. METHODS: Forty-eight C57Bl/6 mice were used for the study. Lean and obese groups were elicited using diet. …


Effects Of Passive Heating And Treadmill Walking On Core Body Temperature, Protein Expression, And Nonmotor Symptoms In Women With Parkinson’S Disease: A Preliminary Analysis, Cayla E. Clark, Tatiana Gaibor Verdezoto, Starr I. Davis, Garin Varjian, Candela Fidalgo Garcia, Savannah Innes, Kyle Biggerstaff, George A. King, Brandon R. Rigby Feb 2026

Effects Of Passive Heating And Treadmill Walking On Core Body Temperature, Protein Expression, And Nonmotor Symptoms In Women With Parkinson’S Disease: A Preliminary Analysis, Cayla E. Clark, Tatiana Gaibor Verdezoto, Starr I. Davis, Garin Varjian, Candela Fidalgo Garcia, Savannah Innes, Kyle Biggerstaff, George A. King, Brandon R. Rigby

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an idiopathic, neurological disorder with impairments in motor and nonmotor physiological functions. Although heat shock proteins (HSPs) may reduce α-synuclein aggregation, central to PD pathology, HSP responses to elevated core temperature and heat-based interventions in PD remain unexplored. PURPOSE: To observe HSP expression, α-synuclein concentration, core body temperature (TC), and nonmotor symptoms of PD following acute aerobic exercise and passive heating in older women with PD. METHODS: Nine women (67.1±4.7 yrs, 27.5±9.4 kg/m2), clinically diagnosed with PD prior to the start of the study, completed a randomized, crossover design including one …


Comparison Between Actual And Predicted Sweat Rates In Burn Survivors Using A Predictive Model For Fluid Replacement, Timothy P. Schaefer, Elizabeth A. Gideon, Erin M. Harper, Zachary J. Mckenna, Rachel M. Cottle, Ollie Jay, Craig G. Crandall Feb 2026

Comparison Between Actual And Predicted Sweat Rates In Burn Survivors Using A Predictive Model For Fluid Replacement, Timothy P. Schaefer, Elizabeth A. Gideon, Erin M. Harper, Zachary J. Mckenna, Rachel M. Cottle, Ollie Jay, Craig G. Crandall

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sweating is a primary physiological response necessary to regulate body temperature in hot environments. Recent literature identifies a correlation between multiple variables (i.e., height and weight, environmental temperature, humidity, intensity and duration of exercise, and venue of exercise) and the rate of sweat loss during physical activity in healthy participants. These findings were then used to create a model to predict fluid loss via sweat, and thus the fluid replacement necessary to rehydrate during and following exercise (sweatratecalculator.com). Importantly, this calculator was modeled with data from uninjured, healthy individuals and therefore may not be accurate for burn survivors. Grafted skin …


Habitual Physical Activity Moderates The Association Between Psychological Stress And Nocturnal Heart Rate In Young Adults, Joelle Becker, Jeremy A. Bigalke, Jason R. Carter Feb 2026

Habitual Physical Activity Moderates The Association Between Psychological Stress And Nocturnal Heart Rate In Young Adults, Joelle Becker, Jeremy A. Bigalke, Jason R. Carter

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Psychological stress can lead to nocturnal hyperarousal and sleep disruption. However, the extent to which habitual physical activity buffers stress-related effects on sleep and hyperarousal remains unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether habitual physical activity moderates the relationship between habitual stress, sleep duration, and nocturnal heart rate (HR). We hypothesized that habitual physical activity would moderate the relationship between stress, sleep, and HR. Specifically, higher stress would be associated with shorter total sleep time and elevated HR primarily among individuals with lower physical activity, whereas more physically active individuals would experience smaller stress-related reductions in …


Boxing For Fitness And Parkinson's Disease, Kaitlyn E. Rzasnicki, Elaina M. Seeley, Vanessa Mikan Phd Feb 2026

Boxing For Fitness And Parkinson's Disease, Kaitlyn E. Rzasnicki, Elaina M. Seeley, Vanessa Mikan Phd

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects over 6 million people every year and has diverse cognitive and physical symptoms, such as tremors, postural instability, depression, etc. Exercise is known as a valuable intervention for maintaining and alleviating some motor symptoms in PD. Specifically, boxing classes are becoming an increasingly popular treatment for PD due to its ability to combine aerobic training, coordination, strength training, and cognitive engagement. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a 4-week boxing program on balance, gait, and quality of life in individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. METHODS: This study consisted of two components. …


Chronic Exercise And Its Effect On Happiness And Anxiety, Daylah Vega, London K. Suarez, Adriana N. Guerrero, Michael V. Maspero, Daiana M. Jones, Emily J. Sauers Feb 2026

Chronic Exercise And Its Effect On Happiness And Anxiety, Daylah Vega, London K. Suarez, Adriana N. Guerrero, Michael V. Maspero, Daiana M. Jones, Emily J. Sauers

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Physical activity has been widely researched and demonstrated to play a crucial role in benefiting individuals' mental health.  As sedentary behaviors begin to rise with upcoming generations, it is important to understand the effects chronic exercise has on an individual's physiological process in order to enhance overall wellbeing.  PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a 6-week Exercise is Medicine on Campus program on happiness and anxiety. METHODS: Sixty-seven participants from OLLU agreed to participate in this endeavor; all participants were placed in 18 fitness teams for the duration of the challenge. Thirty …


Efficacy Of A Health Coaching Intervention, Hannah K. Hutson, Alison Phillips Reichter, Katherine E. Riley Feb 2026

Efficacy Of A Health Coaching Intervention, Hannah K. Hutson, Alison Phillips Reichter, Katherine E. Riley

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Health coaching is an evidence-based, humanistic intervention that involves individualized goal setting and accountability to improve a client’s lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity (PA). Health coaching integrates tenets of Self-Determination Theory, a commonly utilized theory to support behavior change interventions; it posits that humans have three basic psychological needs – competence, autonomy, and relatedness – which facilitate self-determined motivation and positive health and well-being outcomes. In particular, perceived competence indicates the need to feel skilled and develop mastery over tasks. This influences overall motivation, well-being outcomes, and health behaviors. Low levels of perceived competence may undermine health behaviors and …


Reliability, Variability And Reproducibility Of Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Measurements In Rats, Paulo Engelke, Milena Samora Feb 2026

Reliability, Variability And Reproducibility Of Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Measurements In Rats, Paulo Engelke, Milena Samora

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Accurate blood pressure measurement is essential for advancing research in cardiovascular and exercise physiology. The most commonly used indirect method to measure blood pressure in animals is the tail-cuff system. In addition to requiring less expensive equipment and offering a non-invasive alternative to surgical blood pressure measurements, this technique allows for repeated assessments in conscious animals during both short- and long-term studies. Despite prior validation against the gold-standard methods (i.e., radiotelemetry and arterial catheterization), the reliability, variability and reproducibility of this technique have not been fully established. PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the intra- and …


Kicking And Pulling: Are Propulsive Forces The Secret To Peak Swimming Performance?, Parker A. Hughes, Peter G. Weyand Dr. Feb 2026

Kicking And Pulling: Are Propulsive Forces The Secret To Peak Swimming Performance?, Parker A. Hughes, Peter G. Weyand Dr.

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Although swimming is a widely popular, well-researched global sport, the determinates of maximum sprint swimming forces across the four competitive strokes, and their relation to maximal sprint velocity are not known.  PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to establish the relationship between short duration sprint velocity and maximal force production across the four competitive swimming strokes in elite athletes.  Further, this study will also assess relative lower body kicking contributions to total stroke propulsion forces in each of the four strokes.  METHODS: This study was conducted with 65 NCAA Division 1 caliber swimmers across two universities and …


What Are Active People Made Of? Identifying Key Biological Correlates Of Physical Activity In Nationally Representative Databases, Isaac R. Ramos, Pratik Patil, Ayland C. Letsinger Feb 2026

What Are Active People Made Of? Identifying Key Biological Correlates Of Physical Activity In Nationally Representative Databases, Isaac R. Ramos, Pratik Patil, Ayland C. Letsinger

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Despite widespread awareness of the health benefits of physical activity, more than three-quarters of U.S. adults fail to meet national physical activity guidelines. Biological correlates may contribute to persistent differences in physical activity engagement beyond sociodemographic factors. PURPOSE: To identify biological correlates of physical activity levels in nationally representative U.S. adults. METHODS: Data were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2021-2023 cycle. Physical activity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire and was expressed as minutes per week of leisure time moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), with vigorous activity weighted by a …


The Relationship Between Physical Activity And Quality Of Life, Body Mass Index, And Muscular Strength In Patients Following Sleeve Gastrectomy, Kim Ngan Phung, Brett W. Crossland, Michael Olson Feb 2026

The Relationship Between Physical Activity And Quality Of Life, Body Mass Index, And Muscular Strength In Patients Following Sleeve Gastrectomy, Kim Ngan Phung, Brett W. Crossland, Michael Olson

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Obesity is a major public health issue in the United States. Sleeve gastrectomy has become one of the most frequently performed bariatric procedures due to its effectiveness in achieving substantial and sustained weight loss in patients with severe obesity. Despite these benefits, postoperative outcomes, such as quality of life, body mass index maintenance, and muscular strength, are significantly influenced by lifestyle factors, especially physical activity. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between physical activity and quality of life, body mass index, and muscular strength in patients following sleeve gastrectomy. METHODS: This cross-sectional study …


Adipose Tissue Dysfunction As A Novel Contributor To Heart Failure Following Recovery From Doxorubicin Treatment, Quinten W. Pigg, Dillon Harris, Daniela Sayuri Inoue, Mariana Janini Gomes Feb 2026

Adipose Tissue Dysfunction As A Novel Contributor To Heart Failure Following Recovery From Doxorubicin Treatment, Quinten W. Pigg, Dillon Harris, Daniela Sayuri Inoue, Mariana Janini Gomes

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Doxorubicin (DOX) remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment but is limited by its dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, and clinical care for cancer survivors has not yet overcome the poor prognosis of DOX-induced heart failure (HF). PURPOSE: To identify early events that are associated with HF development in rats treated with DOX. METHODS: 42 Male Wistar rats received either DOX (4 weekly I.P. injections of 2.5mg/Kg; D, n=24) or equal volume of saline solution (C, n=18). Rats were evaluated after DOX treatment – baseline timepoint (CB or DB) and following 6 weeks of recovery – final timepoint (CF or DF). RESULTS …


Cardiovascular Reactivity To A Psychosocial Stress In Individuals Who Use E-Cigarettes And Healthy Controls, Kaeda B. Reamer, Kimberly M. Jacob, Summer R. Franklin, Erika M. Filep Dr., Amiee M. Griffis, Joshua E. Gonzalez Dr. Feb 2026

Cardiovascular Reactivity To A Psychosocial Stress In Individuals Who Use E-Cigarettes And Healthy Controls, Kaeda B. Reamer, Kimberly M. Jacob, Summer R. Franklin, Erika M. Filep Dr., Amiee M. Griffis, Joshua E. Gonzalez Dr.

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

E-cigarette use has increased, especially among young adults. It is known that smoking cigarettes can impact stress reactivity. Cardiovascular reactivity to stress is an independent predictor of hypertension development. However, the effects of regular e-cigarette use on cardiovascular reactivity to stress are unclear. PURPOSE: Investigate cardiovascular reactivity to psychosocial stress in individuals who use e-cigarettes. METHODS: 29 healthy adult participants (8 individuals who use e-cigarettes and 21 healthy controls) were instrumented with an ECG vest and an automated brachial blood pressure cuff. Our protocol consisted of a 5-min baseline, followed by Trier social stress test (TSST) (5-min speech preparation, followed …


The Effect Of Stress On Skin Temperature In Individuals Who Regularly Use E-Cigarettes Compared To Healthy Controls, Kimberly M. Jacob, Kaeda B. Reamer, Summer R. Franklin, Erica M. Filep Dr., Amiee M. Griffis, Joshua E. Gonzalez Dr. Feb 2026

The Effect Of Stress On Skin Temperature In Individuals Who Regularly Use E-Cigarettes Compared To Healthy Controls, Kimberly M. Jacob, Kaeda B. Reamer, Summer R. Franklin, Erica M. Filep Dr., Amiee M. Griffis, Joshua E. Gonzalez Dr.

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Stress influences thermoeffector responses through neuroendocrine and autonomic pathways in humans. Previous studies have reported that regular nicotine use increases thermal strain during exercise by reducing skin blood flow. However, regular e-cigarette use, stress, and their impacts on thermoeffector responses are unclear. PURPOSE: Investigate the effect of a psychosocial stress on skin temperature in individuals who use e-cigarettes: 29 participants (8 individuals who use e-cigarettes, 21 healthy controls) were exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Skin temperature data was collected using a 9-site thermocouple configuration using iButtons. Skin Temperature was recorded every minute throughout the protocol. iButtons were …


Differences In Sport Performance Anxiety Between Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders, Christian O. Quintero, Samantha S. Dardaman, Stephen E. Rowden, Rafael E. Cachutt, Scott B. Martin Feb 2026

Differences In Sport Performance Anxiety Between Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders, Christian O. Quintero, Samantha S. Dardaman, Stephen E. Rowden, Rafael E. Cachutt, Scott B. Martin

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

In the sport of bodybuilding, high pressures for perfect performances cultivate extreme levels of restriction and discipline in the domains of eating behaviors, physical training, and aesthetic presentation. These pressures potentially put competitive bodybuilders at risk for anxiety. However, research regarding performance anxiety remains limited in bodybuilding literature. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to examine the differences in sport performance anxiety between male and female bodybuilders. METHODS: Competitive bodybuilders (N = 283; 106 females, 176 males) between the ages of 19 and 68 years old (M = 34.75, SD = 9.83) were recruited to …


The Posterior Athletic Shoulder Test: A Valid, Reliable Tool For Evaluating Posterior Shoulder Performance, Joshua A. Brunson, Benjamin P. Doyle, Mattie Higgins, John D. Tebbetts, Austin J. Burmeier, Faith N. Gage, Edward J. Williams, Jennifer M. Yentes, Steven E. Riechman, J Bryan Mann Feb 2026

The Posterior Athletic Shoulder Test: A Valid, Reliable Tool For Evaluating Posterior Shoulder Performance, Joshua A. Brunson, Benjamin P. Doyle, Mattie Higgins, John D. Tebbetts, Austin J. Burmeier, Faith N. Gage, Edward J. Williams, Jennifer M. Yentes, Steven E. Riechman, J Bryan Mann

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The Athletic Shoulder (ASH) test is a valid and reliable isometric assessment of long-lever anterior shoulder strength across multiple arm positions. Overhead activities such as throwing and swimming place significant demands on the shoulder’s posterior stabilizers (rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers), identifying a need for a Posterior ASH (PASH) test to assess strength and fatigue of these muscles. PURPOSE: To determine the validity and reliability of the PASH test for evaluating posterior shoulder strength. METHODS: The PASH test was performed with identical abduction positions to the ASH test – T (90°), Y (135°), and I (~180°) – in a standing …


Influence Of Standing Versus Prone Posture On Strength And Stabilizing Activation During The Athletic Shoulder Test, Benjamin P. Doyle, Mattie Higgins, Austin J. Burmeier, John D. Tebbetts, Faith N. Gage, Jennifer M. Yentes, Steven E. Riechman, J Bryan Mann Feb 2026

Influence Of Standing Versus Prone Posture On Strength And Stabilizing Activation During The Athletic Shoulder Test, Benjamin P. Doyle, Mattie Higgins, Austin J. Burmeier, John D. Tebbetts, Faith N. Gage, Jennifer M. Yentes, Steven E. Riechman, J Bryan Mann

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The Athletic Shoulder (ASH) test is a well-established tool for assessing long-lever anterior shoulder strength in athletic populations to monitor strength imbalances, fatigue, and screen for injuries. A Standing ASH (STASH) test may be more ecologically valid for assessing full kinetic chain function under postural and joint stabilization demands not captured in the prone position. PURPOSE: To evaluate inter-test agreement and neuromuscular activation differences between the ASH and STASH tests to understand how different stabilization demands impact test performance. METHODS: Forty-two active adults (19M, 23F; 22 ± 2.5 years) performed two maximal repetitions of each abduction position (T=90°, Y=135°, I=~180°) …


Relationship Among Composite Physical Fitness, Motor Competence, And Perceived Motor Competence In College-Aged Students, Chukwuebuka Ebenezer Osuji, Larissa True Feb 2026

Relationship Among Composite Physical Fitness, Motor Competence, And Perceived Motor Competence In College-Aged Students, Chukwuebuka Ebenezer Osuji, Larissa True

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

BACKGROUND: Physical fitness (PF) is a multifaceted construct that contributes to overall health and wellbeing at all points in the lifespan. PF has been linked with motor skill competence (MSC), and perceived motor skill competence (PMC), with higher levels of MSC and PMC being associated with higher levels of PF in children, adolescents and young male adults. However, the relationship between MSC, PMC and PF has remained underexplored in both male and female young adults. PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship among composite PF, MSC and PMC of college-aged adults, while hypothesizing that MSC and PMC will positively predict …


Ready, Set, Stretch: Comparing Static And Dynamic Stretching Effects On Performance, Grace Findeisen, Jonathan Faxigue, Denise V. Gobert Feb 2026

Ready, Set, Stretch: Comparing Static And Dynamic Stretching Effects On Performance, Grace Findeisen, Jonathan Faxigue, Denise V. Gobert

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Many studies have been conducted on static and dynamic stretching effects on performance, analyzing factors such as strength and power, speed and agility, and endurance-dominant activities. However, the results have been inconclusive; some studies report significant effects from a stretching style while some reporting no noticeable differences. PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate both the physiological and performance-related effects of static versus dynamic stretching by monitoring participants' heart rates and physical performance across two stretching conditions. METHODS: 13 adult participants consisting of 5 females and 8 males in the experiment was conducted over 3 consecutive days, with the second day …


The Difference In Muscle Quality And Torque Production Between Sprinters And Jumpers In Ncaa Division I Track Athletes, Ciriany Arrazola, Alexandra Brojanac, Ryan Dunn, Marcos Keefe, Mario I. Hernandez, Ty Palmer, Yasuki Sekiguchi Feb 2026

The Difference In Muscle Quality And Torque Production Between Sprinters And Jumpers In Ncaa Division I Track Athletes, Ciriany Arrazola, Alexandra Brojanac, Ryan Dunn, Marcos Keefe, Mario I. Hernandez, Ty Palmer, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Jumping and sprinting events place mechanical demand on the neuromuscular system, which may result in event-specific differences in muscle quality and strength. Purpose: This study investigated differences in muscle quality, measured by echo intensity (EI), and strength, measured by peak torque (PT), between NCAA Division I jumpers and sprinters. Methods: Twenty-three NCAA Division I jumpers and short sprinters (15 females, 8 males; mean±SD, age: 20±1.5 years, body mass 64.3±10.4 kg, height 172.9±9.0 cm) completed the assessment of EI for the rectus femoris (RF) and hamstrings using ultrasound and isometric maximal voluntary contraction to measure PT for knee extensor and flexor. …


Gender And Geographic Differences In Grip Strength And Static Balance Among Special Olympics Athletes, Madeline Gose, Phil Esposito Feb 2026

Gender And Geographic Differences In Grip Strength And Static Balance Among Special Olympics Athletes, Madeline Gose, Phil Esposito

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities often experience deficits in muscular strength and balance, which can impact functional independence, injury risk, and sport participation. Grip strength and balance are core components of the Special Olympics FUNfitness screening program and serve as practical indicators of overall functional health. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine gender (male/female) and geographic region (Africa, Asia/Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America) based differences in grip strength and balance performance among Special Olympics Athletes. METHODS: A retrospective secondary data analysis was conducted using FUNfitness data collected between 2019-2024. Eyes-open balance performance and …


Evaluating Self-Reported Dietary Habits And Barriers Among Rotc Cadets Across Training Type And Frequency, Olivia J. Haskell, Sarah E. Johnson, Sheyla Leon, Michael Conner, Lisa C. Colvin, Steven E. Martin, Drew E. Gonzalez Feb 2026

Evaluating Self-Reported Dietary Habits And Barriers Among Rotc Cadets Across Training Type And Frequency, Olivia J. Haskell, Sarah E. Johnson, Sheyla Leon, Michael Conner, Lisa C. Colvin, Steven E. Martin, Drew E. Gonzalez

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets are emerging tactical athletes balancing academics and physical training. While physical readiness is emphasized, little is known about how cadets’ food-choice values and dietary habits vary across training modes and frequency. Understanding these patterns is vital, as diet influences body composition, performance, recovery, and long-term health in early military career development. PURPOSE: To investigate the dietary habits and food-choice values of ROTC cadets based on their weekly resistance, aerobic, and concurrent training frequency. METHODS: Cross-sectional data were obtained from 184 ROTC and Corps of Cadets regarding the following validated questionnaires: Food Choice …


Speg Activation To Regulate Sarcoplasmic Reticulum In Muscle Disease, Lauren Nguyen, Sara Kondamadugula, Ting Chang, Susan Hamilton Feb 2026

Speg Activation To Regulate Sarcoplasmic Reticulum In Muscle Disease, Lauren Nguyen, Sara Kondamadugula, Ting Chang, Susan Hamilton

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ leak contributes to many muscle diseases, including Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy (DMD) and Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) with enhanced sensitivity to heat stroke. Recently, we demonstrated that the striated muscle preferentially expressed protein kinase, SPEG, decreases SR Ca2+ leak by phosphorylating Ser2902 on the Ca2+ release channel (also known as the ryanodine receptor 1, RYR1). While SPEG is activated in response to increased leak, the mechanisms of this activation are unknown. In addition, this compensatory mechanism is overwhelmed in the disease states associated with excessive Ca2+ leak. Increasing SPEG activation could potentially be beneficial …