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Beyond The Scale: Exercise Frequency Reflects Metabolic Health Independent Of Adiposity, Macilynn E. Coles, Nicole Cipriano, Diana Kolb, Ross Moody, Martin R. Lindley, Sarah Deemer Feb 2026

Beyond The Scale: Exercise Frequency Reflects Metabolic Health Independent Of Adiposity, Macilynn E. Coles, Nicole Cipriano, Diana Kolb, Ross Moody, Martin R. Lindley, Sarah Deemer

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Physical activity (PA) is an important determinant of metabolic health, yet individuals with similar body mass can differ in metabolic function. Frequency of aerobic (AT) and/or strength training (ST) may differentiate metabolically healthy from unhealthy individuals, independent of body composition. PURPOSE: To compare AT and ST frequency among metabolically healthy lean (MHL), and metabolically healthy (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy (MUO) adults with obesity. METHODS: 59 men and women arrived at the Applied Physiology Lab following an overnight fast (0700h-0900h). Metabolic health (MH) status was assessed by cardiometabolic disease (CMD) history, resting blood pressure (BP), lipid profile, and fasting and 2h …

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Validity Of An Alternative Method For Estimating Anaerobic Contribution During Running In Normoxia And Hypoxia, Ethan J. Hein, Sarah E. Deemer, Lydia K. Caldwell, Austin B. Shaw, Brady C. Mclain, Jacob L. Mcnary, Claudio A. Gobatto, Marcelo Papoti, Fúlvia De Barros Machado-Gobatto, David W. Hill Feb 2026

Validity Of An Alternative Method For Estimating Anaerobic Contribution During Running In Normoxia And Hypoxia, Ethan J. Hein, Sarah E. Deemer, Lydia K. Caldwell, Austin B. Shaw, Brady C. Mclain, Jacob L. Mcnary, Claudio A. Gobatto, Marcelo Papoti, Fúlvia De Barros Machado-Gobatto, David W. Hill

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Anaerobic metabolism is vital for sustaining work rates during severe-intensity exercise, particularly under environmental conditions such as hypoxia where aerobic metabolism is constrained. Accumulated oxygen deficit (AOD) is the gold-standard method for quantifying anaerobic contribution, yet its implementation is limited by extensive laboratory testing. An alternative approach (AOD_alt) estimates anaerobic contribution from a single exercise bout and provides insight into the distinct contributions of phosphocreatine and glycolysis. However, its validity during running under conditions of reduced oxygen availability remains unexplored. PURPOSE: To determine the validity of AOD_alt during severe-intensity treadmill running in normoxia and hypoxia. METHODS: Twenty-three adults (10W/13M; age …

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Effect Of Maurten Sodium Bicarbonate System On 5k Running Performance, Suzanna Q. Navarro, Dustin P. Joubert Feb 2026

Effect Of Maurten Sodium Bicarbonate System On 5k Running Performance, Suzanna Q. Navarro, Dustin P. Joubert

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

During high intensity bouts of running, acidosis is a contributing factor in muscle fatigue, but sodium bicarbonate can be used to help the body’s natural buffering system by accepting excess hydrogen ions in the blood and muscles. However, gastrointestinal (GI) issues have been an issue with prior ingestion methods in previous studies. Even though past studies have shown a buffering capacity of ~1-5 minutes, the Maurten Sodium Bicarbonate System (MSBS) uses a carbohydrate hydrogel ingestion method that claims to decrease GI tract issues and can sustain the buffering capacity for hours instead of minutes. PURPOSE: Determine the ergogenic effects …

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Different Orders Of Upper- And Lower-Body Resistance Exercise On Heart Rate Variability In Women, Yu Lun Tai, Ryan D. Russell Feb 2026

Different Orders Of Upper- And Lower-Body Resistance Exercise On Heart Rate Variability In Women, Yu Lun Tai, Ryan D. Russell

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Acute upper- or lower-body resistance exercise (RE) has been shown to induce similar impacts on autonomic modulation (AM). However, the effect on AM after different orders of combined upper- and lower-body RE are unclear. PURPOSE: To compare the different orders of upper-and lower-body RE on AM in young women. METHODS: Twenty-three young women (22±2 years old) completed the study. The upper- and lower-body RE (UL) condition consisted of latissimus dorsi pulldown, incline chest press, knee extension and knee flexion while the lower- and upper-body RE (LU) condition consisted of knee extension, knee flexion, latissimus dorsi pulldown, and incline chest …

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Impact Of Priming Exercise Load In Vascular Occlusion Test Outcomes, Wonjae Lee, Elizabeth G. Knoll, Joshua L. Keller Feb 2026

Impact Of Priming Exercise Load In Vascular Occlusion Test Outcomes, Wonjae Lee, Elizabeth G. Knoll, Joshua L. Keller

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Near-infrared spectroscopy combined with a vascular occlusion test (NIRS-VOT) assesses microvascular function by analyzing tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). StO2-derived outcomes from the NIRS-VOT have been shown to differ across biological sex and fitness and are interpreted as reflecting differences in muscle oxidative capacity, microvascular function, and endothelial health. These differences may be influenced by the accumulation of metabolic byproducts that modulate local oxygen delivery. Exercise performed before a NIRS-VOT can alter metabolic rate, potentially influencing StO2 responses. However, it is unclear whether different submaximal priming exercise intensities affect NIRS-VOT outcomes, particularly when the magnitude of …

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Fatigue-Matched Three Different Squats Elicit Blood Lactate Responses In Young Adults, Jiwon Song, Kase Pennartz, Wonjae Lee, Sarah Deemer, Jakob Vingren, David Church, Joshua L. Keller Feb 2026

Fatigue-Matched Three Different Squats Elicit Blood Lactate Responses In Young Adults, Jiwon Song, Kase Pennartz, Wonjae Lee, Sarah Deemer, Jakob Vingren, David Church, Joshua L. Keller

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Resistance exercise (RE) with blood flow restriction (BFR) promotes muscle hypertrophy, using low external loads and may also improve cognitive function and neuroplasticity, possibly by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Lactate accumulation during exercise has been proposed as a potential mediator of exercise-induced increases in BDNF. However, it is unclear whether different RE loading strategies or BFR under fatigue-matched conditions produce distinct lactate responses that could differentially influence downstream neurotrophic mechanisms. PURPOSE: This study examined blood lactate responses for high-load (HL), low-load (LL), and LL-BFR RE in recreationally active young adults. METHODS: Sixteen healthy, recreationally active young adults …

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Sex Differences In The Perceptual Responses While Performing Intermittent Absolute Exercise In Warm And Hot Environments, Caitlin C. Sassetti, Mario I. Hernandez, Alexandra P. Brojanac, Tyler B. Mccollum, Rachel R. Roberts, Yasuki Sekiguchi Feb 2026

Sex Differences In The Perceptual Responses While Performing Intermittent Absolute Exercise In Warm And Hot Environments, Caitlin C. Sassetti, Mario I. Hernandez, Alexandra P. Brojanac, Tyler B. Mccollum, Rachel R. Roberts, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

With the recent increases in global temperatures and women working in tactical positions, understanding if sex-specific responses to hotter environments are present is crucial. However, it is currently unclear if females experience different perceptual responses to warm and hot environments compared to males while performing the same absolute exercise workload. PURPOSE: To investigate the sex differences in perceptual responses in warm and hot environments while performing the same absolute exercise workload. METHODS: Physically active eleven males (age: 23±5 yrs, body mass: 72±8 kg, height: 175±8 cm, estimated maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max]: 51.6±5.9 ml⋅kg-1⋅min-1) and …

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Physical Education As A Determinant Of Adolescents’ Weekday Activity Behaviors, Jessica Pegg, Grant Dunn, Kevin Dames, Samantha Moss Feb 2026

Physical Education As A Determinant Of Adolescents’ Weekday Activity Behaviors, Jessica Pegg, Grant Dunn, Kevin Dames, Samantha Moss

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Physical education is a structured setting that facilitates physical activity and helps establish healthy habits in youth. Despite the recognized role of physical education and benefits of physical activity, Texas mandates only 1 credit (i.e., two semesters) of physical education across 4 years of high school (19 Texas Administrative Code §74.12(b)(6)(F)). PURPOSE: 1) Identify the amount of time adolescents spend in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior during physical education and weekdays, and 2) examine the predictive utilities of MVPA during physical education toward adolescents’ weekday MVPA and sedentary behavior. METHODS: The study recruited 50 students (32 …

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Effects Of Progressive Overload Resistance Training On Lower-Limb Strength, Muscle Mass, And Mobility In Inclusion Body Myositis: An N-Of-1 Study, Cara F. Haynes, Emery Nuner, Ashley Dalby, Woohyoung Jeon Feb 2026

Effects Of Progressive Overload Resistance Training On Lower-Limb Strength, Muscle Mass, And Mobility In Inclusion Body Myositis: An N-Of-1 Study, Cara F. Haynes, Emery Nuner, Ashley Dalby, Woohyoung Jeon

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) is a rare, progressive inflammatory myopathy characterized by asymmetrical muscle atrophy of the quadriceps and finger flexors, resulting in impaired function and increased fall risk. Although supervised resistance exercise has been shown to be safe in inflammatory myopathies, most prior studies have emphasized low-resistance or non-weighted interventions, with limited focus on quadriceps function, which plays a critical role in sit-to-stand performance and fall prevention. PURPOSE: To determine whether a 12-week progressive overload resistance training program could improve or preserve lower-limb strength, muscle mass, and functional mobility in a patient with IBM. METHODS: One male …

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Sex Differences In Force Production During Static And Dynamic Round-Offs In Tumblers, Molly M. Scheidt, Autum Andrusick, Amy Fugiel, Megan Goodyear, Amber M. Chelette Feb 2026

Sex Differences In Force Production During Static And Dynamic Round-Offs In Tumblers, Molly M. Scheidt, Autum Andrusick, Amy Fugiel, Megan Goodyear, Amber M. Chelette

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

A roundoff is an acrobatic tumbling skill performed in gymnastics, dance, or cheer, consisting of a preparatory phase, an action phase, and a landing phase requiring coordinated movements between the major joints and muscles. A dynamic roundoff is expected to produce a greater force than a static roundoff, as the running start increases velocity and allows for greater momentum and power generation through the landing. Additionally, differences in force production between males and females may be present due to differences in body mass, body composition, and strength. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if gender played …

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Exercise-Induced Metabolic Demand Modifies Nirs-Based Assessments Of Reactive Hyperemia, Elizabeth G. Knoll, Wonjae Lee, Joshua L. Keller Feb 2026

Exercise-Induced Metabolic Demand Modifies Nirs-Based Assessments Of Reactive Hyperemia, Elizabeth G. Knoll, Wonjae Lee, Joshua L. Keller

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Combining near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) with a vascular occlusion test (VOT) is commonly used to assess the determinants of reactive hyperemia. However, the influence of exercise-induced metabolic demand on NIRS-derived outcomes remains unclear. Because reactive hyperemia is governed by redundant endothelial, myogenic, and metabolic factors, incorporating non-fatiguing exercise may provide an experimental approach to differentially emphasize their relative contributions. PURPOSE: Therefore, our purpose was to examine the effects of submaximal exercise on NIRS+VOT indices of skeletal muscle tissue oxygenation (StO2). METHOD: Twelve healthy adults ranging from 18 to 35 years old (6 males and 6 females; 25 ± 6 years; 72.7 …

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Agreement Of Skeletal Muscle Mass Estimates Between Professional And Consumer-Grade Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, Julia A. Whitson, Carina M. Velasquez, Christine M. Florez, Ainsley E. Way, Madison H. Sullivan, Reva Ann Rudolph, John Alexander, Adhirath Malladi, Grant M. Tinsley Feb 2026

Agreement Of Skeletal Muscle Mass Estimates Between Professional And Consumer-Grade Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, Julia A. Whitson, Carina M. Velasquez, Christine M. Florez, Ainsley E. Way, Madison H. Sullivan, Reva Ann Rudolph, John Alexander, Adhirath Malladi, Grant M. Tinsley

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Skeletal muscle mass (SMM) is a useful variable for evaluating overall fitness and detecting conditions like sarcopenia and cachexia. While several validated laboratory and clinical devices (including magnetic resonance imaging, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and laboratory-grade bioimpedance devices) are adept at SMM assessment, such measures may prove inaccessible or cost-prohibitive to the average person. Consumer-grade bioimpedance analyzers seek to bridge this gap and provide affordable, accurate body composition information. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the validity of skeletal muscle mass (SMM) assessment by a consumer-available hand-to-foot bioimpedance analyzer between females and males, using a professional-grade device as …

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Axe Throwing: Sex Differences In Upper Extremity Kinematics At Release, Olufunmilayo Arobadi, Iris-Sol Santana, Amber M. Chelette Feb 2026

Axe Throwing: Sex Differences In Upper Extremity Kinematics At Release, Olufunmilayo Arobadi, Iris-Sol Santana, Amber M. Chelette

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Axe throwing is a growing sport, yet few studies have examined upper body biomechanics during the throw. While trunk mechanics have been explored, limited data exist on shoulder, elbow, and wrist kinematics at release, key factors for accuracy and safety. It is also unknown whether male and female axe throwers adopt different strategies based on strength and size differences. PURPOSE: This study examined sex differences in shoulder, elbow and wrist angles at release during axe throwing among collegiate athletes. METHODS: Ten participants (5 females, 5 males) each completed four successful throws using a standardized double-bit axe (1.35 …

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Hand-To-Foot Consumer-Grade Bioelectrical Impedance Shows Better Accuracy Than A Foot-To-Foot Analyzer, Madison H. Sullivan, Ainsley Way, Carina M. Velasquez, Christine M. Florez, Julia Whitson, John Alexander, Adhirath Malladi, Grant M. Tinsley Feb 2026

Hand-To-Foot Consumer-Grade Bioelectrical Impedance Shows Better Accuracy Than A Foot-To-Foot Analyzer, Madison H. Sullivan, Ainsley Way, Carina M. Velasquez, Christine M. Florez, Julia Whitson, John Alexander, Adhirath Malladi, Grant M. Tinsley

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (MFBIA) is a widely available and noninvasive method used in body composition analysis. Tanita is a well-defined company that produces many MFBIA devices, ranging from consumer- to professional-grade. Tanita MFBIA devices use either hand-to-foot or foot-to-foot electrode arrangements, which may lead to different results for components such as body fat percentage (BFP). With MFBIA becoming more common and available, it is important to determine the accuracy of these different hardware configurations of MFBIA analyzers. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare two consumer-grade MFBIA devices differing in electrode arrangement to a laboratory-grade MFBIA …

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Influence Of Moderate-To-Vigorous Physical Activity During Physical Education For Fitness, Cognition, And School Day Activity In Adolescence, Grant Dunn, Jessica Pegg, Kevin Dames, Samantha Moss Feb 2026

Influence Of Moderate-To-Vigorous Physical Activity During Physical Education For Fitness, Cognition, And School Day Activity In Adolescence, Grant Dunn, Jessica Pegg, Kevin Dames, Samantha Moss

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

In Texas, students K-12 are required to engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) at least 50% of the time spent in physical education (Texas Education Code § 28.002, 2021). Engaging in MVPA advances developmental outcomes, including health-related fitness and cognition, to support long-term health behaviors. However, there is a lack of evidence examining if the MVPA requirement is being met and possible health impacts. PURPOSE: 1) Identify how many students adhere to the MVPA physical education requirement and 2) investigate differences in developmental outcomes (i.e., health-related fitness [upper and lower body strength], cognition), and school day MVPA and sedentary behavior …

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Analyzing Female Athlete Wellness And Performance Variables Over The Academic Calendar Year, Mackenzie Woodward, Kyndal Kutac, Paula Parker-Fordyce, Jennifer A. Bunn Feb 2026

Analyzing Female Athlete Wellness And Performance Variables Over The Academic Calendar Year, Mackenzie Woodward, Kyndal Kutac, Paula Parker-Fordyce, Jennifer A. Bunn

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The effects of the academic calendar on the wellness and performance of female student-athletes have yet to be clearly understood. PURPOSE: To assess the impact of academic calendar timing on wellness and performance in Division I female lacrosse athletes. We hypothesized that both wellness scores and performance metrics would progressively decrease throughout each semester. METHODS: Data collection was conducted on 34 female lacrosse student athletes. These athletes completed daily self-reporting surveys to analyze wellness scores and wore microtechnology during games and training sessions. Wellness variables included mood, sleep quality, sleep duration, stress, muscle readiness, energy, and yesterday’s nutrition. …

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Blood Flow Restriction Circuit Training Model Improves Gait Speed And Lower Limb Muscle In Adults Over 60, Pablo Cruz, Sten O. Stray-Gundersen, Regine Rossi, Teresa Gingles, Graham Trawick, Ronan Miller, Sameena Mathew, Ethan To, Savannah V. Rauschendorfer Feb 2026

Blood Flow Restriction Circuit Training Model Improves Gait Speed And Lower Limb Muscle In Adults Over 60, Pablo Cruz, Sten O. Stray-Gundersen, Regine Rossi, Teresa Gingles, Graham Trawick, Ronan Miller, Sameena Mathew, Ethan To, Savannah V. Rauschendorfer

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Blood flow restriction (BFR) training is a low intensity modality capable of inducing neuromuscular and functional adaptations. While BFR has been implemented using isolated resistance or walking protocols in older adults, less is known about the effect of BFR application to popular circuit-based training modalities that integrate multi- exercise strength training, cardiovascular, and muscular endurance. PURPOSE: This study evaluated the effects of a 6-week BFR circuit training (BFRT) program on functional performance and thigh muscle cross-sectional area in healthy adults over 60, compared to a health education control group. METHODS: 45 healthy adults ≥60 years were randomly assigned to either …

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Muscle Excitation And Prefrontal Cortex Oxygenation Responses During Resistance Exercise, Kase J. Pennartz, Jeremiah Blough, Wonjae Lee, Jiwon Song, Myungjin Jung, Joshua L. Keller Feb 2026

Muscle Excitation And Prefrontal Cortex Oxygenation Responses During Resistance Exercise, Kase J. Pennartz, Jeremiah Blough, Wonjae Lee, Jiwon Song, Myungjin Jung, Joshua L. Keller

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Resistance exercise (RE) enhances cognitive function potentially through increases in cerebral blood flow and oxygenation (O2Hb). These exercise-induced changes in cerebral blood flow and concomitant neural activity reflect the neurovascular coupling. Blood flow restriction (BFR) combined with low-load (LL) RE is an effective tool for increasing muscle excitation, size, and strength. However, the effects of BFR RE on cerebral oxygenation responses remain unknown. PURPOSE: Therefore, our purpose was to compare the effects of LL, LL + BFR, or (high-load) HL volume-equated squats on changes in prefrontal cortex (PFC) oxygenation and muscle excitation in adults. METHODS: Thirty healthy, young …

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Accumlated Thermal And Cardiovascular Load Are Unaffected By Sauna Bathing Timing Relative To Exercise, Isabel J. Richardson, Marcos S. Keefe, Tyler B. Mccollum, Alexandra P. Brojanac, Yasuki Sekiguchi Feb 2026

Accumlated Thermal And Cardiovascular Load Are Unaffected By Sauna Bathing Timing Relative To Exercise, Isabel J. Richardson, Marcos S. Keefe, Tyler B. Mccollum, Alexandra P. Brojanac, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sauna bathing is a recovery strategy driven by increased thermal load and can be used before or after exercise, highlighting the need to understand how thermal load relates to exercise timing. However, accompanyingcardiovascular load may compromise physiological benefits, warranting investigation into sauna timing to identify an optimal balance between thermal and cardiovascular load. PURPOSE: Examine differences in thermal and cardiovascular load across different timing strategies of sauna bathing relative to exercise. METHODS: 8 recreationally active participants (males: n = 7; females; n = 1; age: 29 ± 5 years; body mass: 72.5 ± 7.1 kg; height: 174.3 ± 7.7 cm) …

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Sex-Specific Responses In Sleep Metrics Throughout Heat Acclimation In Highly Trained Endurance Runners, Sophia Waller, Marcos S. Keefe, Tyler B. Mccollum, Ryan A. Dunn, Yasuki Sekiguchi Feb 2026

Sex-Specific Responses In Sleep Metrics Throughout Heat Acclimation In Highly Trained Endurance Runners, Sophia Waller, Marcos S. Keefe, Tyler B. Mccollum, Ryan A. Dunn, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Training in a hot environment (heat acclimation) elicits beneficial physiological and thermoregulatory adaptations that enhance subsequent exercise in the heat; however, additional strain from exertional heat stress may negatively influence sleep duration and quality. Although sex differences in sleep have been observed relative to exercise, it remains unclear if training in the heat exacerbates sex-specific responses. PURPOSE: Investigate the effect of heat acclimation on sleep in highly trained male and female endurance runners compared to training in a temperate environment. METHODS: 17 highly trained endurance runners (males: n = 8, age, 21 ± 3 years, maximal oxygen uptake …

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Thermography-Derived Skin Temperature Metrics Reflect Physiological And Perceptual Recovery, Tyler Mccollum, Marcos Keefe, Alexandra Brojanac, Isabel J. Richardson, Sophia J. Waller, Yasuki Sekiguchi Feb 2026

Thermography-Derived Skin Temperature Metrics Reflect Physiological And Perceptual Recovery, Tyler Mccollum, Marcos Keefe, Alexandra Brojanac, Isabel J. Richardson, Sophia J. Waller, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Monitoring recovery following fatiguing exercise requires tools that are sensitive to both physiological and perceptual stress while remaining practical for applied settings. Infrared thermography has emerged as a promising, non-invasive technique, yet its association with established recovery outcomes has not been fully elucidated. PURPOSE: To investigate the association between thermography-measured skin temperature with physiological and perceptual recovery metrics. METHODS: Eight recreationally active individuals (mean ± standard deviation; age: 29 ± 5yrs, height: 174.3 ± 7.7, weight: 72.5 ± 7.1kg) completed a whole-body fatiguing exercise protocol with either pre-exercise sauna, post-exercise sauna, or no sauna bathing in a randomized and counterbalanced …

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Effect Of Menstrual Cycle On Lower-Body Power Output In Active College-Aged Women, Peyton Schmidt, Taylor Vannett, Erika Short Feb 2026

Effect Of Menstrual Cycle On Lower-Body Power Output In Active College-Aged Women, Peyton Schmidt, Taylor Vannett, Erika Short

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The menstrual cycle is a normal physiological process that may influence physical and psychological performance in women. Many women report feeling less powerful during their menstrual cycle, which may affect athletic performance.  PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the menstrual cycle affects lower-body power output in active college-aged women.  METHODS: Twenty active women (18–25 years; M = 20.35 ± 1.98) participated in this study. All participants experienced regular menstrual cycles and were recreationally active or competitive athletes. Testing was conducted in the Texas Lutheran University Kinesiology Lab using a Biodex Dynamometer. After signing an informed consent, …

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Muscle Excitation During Volume-Equated Squats Performed With And Without Blood Flow Restriction, Danielle Hitchens, Joshua L. Keller, Kase Pennartz, Wonjae Lee, Jeremiah Blough, Myungjin Jung, Jiwon Song Feb 2026

Muscle Excitation During Volume-Equated Squats Performed With And Without Blood Flow Restriction, Danielle Hitchens, Joshua L. Keller, Kase Pennartz, Wonjae Lee, Jeremiah Blough, Myungjin Jung, Jiwon Song

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Blood flow restriction (BFR) resistance training has gained increasing attention in clinical, athletic, and recreational settings. It has been proposed that low-load resistance exercise combined with BFR can elicit significant muscle adaptations, potentially mimicking the effects of high-load training. Despite the growing use of this modality, the effects of BFR on muscle excitation remain incompletely understood., Surface electromyography (EMG) provides a useful approach for examining these responses. Additionally, volume-matched exercise conditions are needed to isolate the unique effects of load and BFR. PURPOSE: Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether muscle excitation differs across four sets of …

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Association Of Body Mass Index With Gait Dynamics And Fall Risk In College Students, Diego Diaz-Vega, Heontae Kim, Ho Han, Jungyu Lee Feb 2026

Association Of Body Mass Index With Gait Dynamics And Fall Risk In College Students, Diego Diaz-Vega, Heontae Kim, Ho Han, Jungyu Lee

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

PURPOSE: Although falls are typically associated with older adults, identifying early indicators of fall risk among young populations may help prevent future mobility decline. Because body mass index (BMI) is a modifiable factor that can influence balance and gait stability, understanding its role in early fall risk is important. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine differences in fall risk and gait characteristics across BMI categories in college students. METHODS: Fifteen college students participated in this study and were classified into normal, overweight, or obese groups according to BMI. Fall risk was assessed using the Fall Risk Assessment …

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Enhancing Dispositional Mindfulness And Emotion Regulation In Youth Athletes Via A Breathwork And Visualization Intervention, Imare Tasby, Louis Hein, Rene Barbier, Kenia Gonzalez, Mei-Jing Ang, Sven Hoekstra, Kelvin Wu Feb 2026

Enhancing Dispositional Mindfulness And Emotion Regulation In Youth Athletes Via A Breathwork And Visualization Intervention, Imare Tasby, Louis Hein, Rene Barbier, Kenia Gonzalez, Mei-Jing Ang, Sven Hoekstra, Kelvin Wu

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Competitive youth sports impose significant psychological demands, often leading to stress and maladaptive emotional regulation. Dispositional mindfulness protects against burnout, yet practical interventions for youth athletes are scarce. Breathwork and visualization offer a physiological gateway to emotional control, but their efficacy in this population is unclear. PURPOSE: This study examined the efficacy of a 12-week breathwork and visualization intervention on dispositional mindfulness and emotion regulation strategies (cognitive reappraisal vs. expressive suppression) in adolescent soccer players. METHODS: Twenty-seven athletes were initially recruited from Soccer Central San Antonio. Following 5 dropouts (1 intervention, 4 control), a final sample of 22 participants …

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The Effect Of A 12-Week Breathwork And Visualization Intervention On Inhibitory Control And Cognitive Flexibility In Adolescent Soccer Players, Louis Hein, Jace Nicolet, Tiffany Gomez, Mei-Jing Ang, Sven Hoekstra, Kelvin C. Wu Feb 2026

The Effect Of A 12-Week Breathwork And Visualization Intervention On Inhibitory Control And Cognitive Flexibility In Adolescent Soccer Players, Louis Hein, Jace Nicolet, Tiffany Gomez, Mei-Jing Ang, Sven Hoekstra, Kelvin C. Wu

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Cognitive inhibition and flexibility are essential for soccer performance, enabling players to adapt to dynamic environments. However, accumulated season fatigue often degrades these executive functions. The Neurovisceral Integration Model posits that prefrontal cognitive function is linked to cardiac vagal tone, suggesting that autonomic regulation may support inhibitory control. While breathwork is known to enhance autonomic regulation, its potential to preserve cognitive function in youth athletes is untested. PURPOSE: This study investigated the effects of a 12-week breathwork and visualization protocol on inhibitory control (Stroop) and cognitive flexibility (Task-Switching) in adolescent soccer players. METHODS: Athletes were recruited from Soccer Central San …

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Cross-Validating The Healthy Step Length Equation: Evaluating Prediction Accuracy In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Jungyu Lee, Ho Han, Heontae Kim, Diego Diaz-Vega Feb 2026

Cross-Validating The Healthy Step Length Equation: Evaluating Prediction Accuracy In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Jungyu Lee, Ho Han, Heontae Kim, Diego Diaz-Vega

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Step length is a key indicator of gait efficiency and mobility in older adults, closely associated with fall risk, frailty, and overall health. However, most available prediction equations are based solely on height or have not undergone empirical validation, which limits their precision and applicability in aging populations. PURPOSE: This study aimed to cross-validate the newly developed Healthy Step Length Equation, which incorporates age, sex, height, weight, and walking speed, by comparing it with three commonly used height-based models to evaluate its predictive accuracy, and clinical relevance in older adults. METHODS: A total of 174 healthy, community-dwelling adults …

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Do Cardiovascular Disease Risk Indices Differ Based On The Body Roundness Index Among First Responders?, Samantha Umfrid, Michael Conner, Steven E. Martin, Matthew J. Mcallister, Drew E. Gonzalez Feb 2026

Do Cardiovascular Disease Risk Indices Differ Based On The Body Roundness Index Among First Responders?, Samantha Umfrid, Michael Conner, Steven E. Martin, Matthew J. Mcallister, Drew E. Gonzalez

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

First responders need simple, cost-effective health assessments to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. The Body Roundness Index (BRI) has emerged as a potential tool for evaluating health over the past decade, but has not yet been used among first responder groups. PURPOSE: We compared CVD risk biomarkers across BRI quartile groups. METHODS: Archival data from annual clinical testing on 170 first responders were analyzed. The BRI was categorized into quartiles: Q1 (<3.1), Q2 (3.1-3.7), Q3 (3.7-4.6), and Q4 (>4.6). The 2013 Thomas et al. equation calculated BRI, using waist circumference (Wc) and height (Ht): BRI = 364.2 – 365.5 x √[1 – ((Wc/2π)² / …

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Effect Of Acute Sleep Fragmentation On Skeletal Muscle Blood Flow During Handgrip Exercise, Gabriel Narvaez, Joaquin Gonzales Feb 2026

Effect Of Acute Sleep Fragmentation On Skeletal Muscle Blood Flow During Handgrip Exercise, Gabriel Narvaez, Joaquin Gonzales

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sleep fragmentation (arousals from sleep) has been shown to impair vascular function due to elevated inflammation and oxidative stress. Previous research on this topic has focused on resting vascular function, with little information available about the effect of poor sleep on hyperemic responses to exercise. PURPOSE: To test the hypothesis that acute sleep fragmentation impairs skeletal muscle blood flow during exercise. METHODS: Fifteen adults (7F, 8M, age- 25 ± 5 y, BMI 23.5 ± 2.5 kg/m2) participated in a randomized crossover study that included one night of habitual sleep and one night of sleep fragmentation separated by at least 7 …

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The Effect Of Mental Imagery On Free Throw Shooting Percentage, Kaydon Jackson, Kadyn Hall, Casi Helbig Feb 2026

The Effect Of Mental Imagery On Free Throw Shooting Percentage, Kaydon Jackson, Kadyn Hall, Casi Helbig

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Mental imagery is a cognitive process involving the internal simulation of sensory experiences without external stimuli and is commonly used in sport performance preparation. When structured and deliberately practiced, mental imagery can enhance skill acquisition and performance outcomes PURPOSE: This study investigated whether PETTLEP-guided mental imagery (Physical, Environment, Task, Timing, Learning, Emotion, Perspective), performed without any physical practice, could enhance free-throw accuracy. METHODS: Twenty collegiate baseball players were randomly assigned to a PETTLEP imagery group (n=10) or a control group (n=10). Over two weeks, the experimental group participated in five guided mental imagery sessions, each lasting five minutes, while the …

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