Kinesiology Commons^™

The Relationship Between Lower-Body Flexibility And Running Performance In A Half Marathon Downhill Running Event, Logan Petty, Marcus M. Lawrence

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(3): 1-12, 2025. Although previous studies examining treadmill or relatively flat overground running events have found relationships for running performance and flexibility, no study has examined these outcomes during downhill events, including between sexes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship exists between lower body flexibility and running performance in recreational adult male and female distance runners competing in a downhill half marathon race. Recreational (n=11 male, n=19 female) adult distance runners completed this study. On the day prior to the race, participants performed a standardized warm-up, …

Exploring Associations Between Health And Fitness Measures And Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors In Rural Firefighters, Isaiah Mews

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

This study investigates the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and muscular fitness measures in career rural firefighters. MetS is a cluster of conditions that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), a leading cause of death among firefighters. Previous research has shown that cardiorespiratory fitness is inversely related to MetS, but the role of muscular fitness variables remains unclear. This study aims to determine if fitness measures, such as cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and muscular power, can give insight into MetS in firefighters. Participants were recruited from a Southeastern rural fire department and underwent assessments of muscular fitness, …

Impacts Of Physical Inactivity Models On Endothelial Function: A Systematic Review, Joel E. Harden, J. David Branch, Leryn J. Reynolds

Exercise Science Faculty Publications

Background

Endothelial dysfunction is associated with cardiovascular disease and cardiac events. Numerous studies demonstrate that a reduction in physical activity/exercise levels are associated with poor endothelial function. Yet, these studies use a plethora of models to mimic reduced activity levels which may have widely different results on endothelial function. It is pertinent to collectively review these articles to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of reduced activity on vascular health, as endothelial function is one of many factors that influences vascular tone.

Objective

The purpose of this systematic review is to examine and synthesize the current literature regarding the …

Menstrual Cycle Phase Effects On Exercise Thermoregulation And Performance In The Heat, Kailei J. Eustis

All Master's Theses

Hormone fluctuations across the menstrual cycle (MC) may influence physiological responses. This study examined whether thermoregulatory measures differ across MC phases, and if these changes impact running performance in the heat. Ten eumenorrheic adults completed two treadmill runs in simulated conditions (wet bulb globe temperature 31.7 ± 1.4°C) during early follicular (EF) and midluteal (ML) phases. First 45min was a constant self-selected light pace followed by a 15min performance test for distance. Core temperature (Tc), mean skin temperature (Ts), heart rate (HR), perceived exertion (RPE), thermal perception (THERM), and comfort perception (COMF) were assessed every 5min. Sweat perception (SP), sweat …

Canine Agility On The A-Frame Obstacle, Derek Wheeler

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Agility dogs rely on speed, strength, and precision to safely complete obstacles, such as the A-frame. These athletes can experience injuries in training or competition and the variability in multiple repetitions is undocumented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether canine mass and trained contact behavior affected performance variables, including number of footfalls, obstacle completion time, and velocity between repetitions. Twenty-one actively competing dogs, at the masters level in American Kennel Club agility, were recorded completing two repetitions of the A-frame under standardized conditions. Paw placements were tracked manually frame by frame in XMALab and statistical analyses including …

Utilization Of Sprint Interval Training In Intermittent Sports, Marcus David Garcia

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

Sprint interval training (SIT) is a powerful training method that involves short, maximal sprint efforts followed by brief recovery periods. This modality shares similar physical demands of intermittent sports, where athletes repeatedly transition between maximal exertion and submaximal efforts or rest. The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of SIT on key performance metrics in intermittent sports, such as sprint speed, repeated sprint ability (RSA), aerobic capacity, and anaerobic power. SIT not only enhances anaerobic performance but also promotes adaptations like faster phosphocreatine resynthesis, increased glycolytic enzyme activity, and shifts in muscle fiber composition. These adaptations contribute …

Computational Approaches For Diagnosing Neurological Impairments And Restoring Functional Movement, Serhii Bahdasariants

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Movement is the primary means by which the nervous system converts intention into interaction with the environment. Voluntary limb motion enables standing, walking, reaching, and grasping—actions that underpin self‑care, communication, and economic participation. When diseases or injuries disrupt the pathways that couple neural commands to muscle forces—whether through cortical stroke, spinal cord injury, or peripheral nerve damage—mechanical outcomes such as weakness, loss of coordination, and ultimately reduced mobility emerge. These impairments cascade into secondary complications, increased dependence on caregivers, and diminished quality of life. Quantifying how the lesion alters the mechanics of movement is therefore essential for designing targeted interventions …

Fluid Intake And Hydration Responses To Mass Participation Gravel Cycling, Carly Schuerger, Brandon Raik, Francis Salmon, Kian Foote, Angelo Madlambayan, Maya Vega, Grace Handler, Matthew M. Schubert

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 1648-1662, 2024. Gravel cycling is a relatively new cycling discipline, with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) hosting their first World Championships in 2022. Gravel races combine features of road racing, cyclocross, and mountain biking, including terrain of varying technical difficulty, long distances, substantial elevation gain, obstacles, and limited opportunities to stop for in-race nutrition. This study assessed hydration responses to gravel races of three different distances. Data were collected on saliva osmolarity (SOsm), body mass (BM), fluid intake, and nutrition knowledge at a gravel cycling race in April 2023. A total of 121 participants …

Assessment Of The Accuracy Of A Deep Learning Algorithm- And Video-Based Motion Capture System In Estimating Snatch Kinematics, Federico Thiele, Florian K. Paternoster, Chris Hummel, Fabian Stöcker, Denis Holzer

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(1): 1629-1647, 2024. In weightlifting, quantitative kinematic analysis is essential for evaluating snatch performance. While marker-based (MB) approaches are commonly used, they are impractical for training or competitions. Markerless video-based (VB) systems utilizing deep learning-based pose estimation algorithms could address this issue. This study assessed the comparability and applicability of VB systems in obtaining snatch kinematics by comparing the outcomes to an MB reference system. 21 weightlifters (15 Male, 6 Female) performed 2–3 snatches at 65%, 75%, and 80% of their one-repetition maximum. Snatch kinematics were analyzed using an MB (Vicon Nexus) and VB (Contemplas …

Randomized Pilot Study Examining An Online Diet Intervention To Increase Intake Of Fruits And Vegetables Among Healthy Adults, Diana Kolb, Sarah Deemer, Eva Claire Synkowski, Stephanie Silveira

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 1618-1628, 2024. Intake of fruits and vegetables (F&V) is related to health outcomes. The purpose of the study was to test an online diet program promoting F&V intake among healthy adults. Twenty-three participants were randomly assigned to complete an 8-week intervention condition (#800gChallenge®) or wait-list control condition. In weeks 1-4, intervention participants were asked to interact with an application reporting (a) whether they met their daily 800g F&V goal, (b) if their 800g of F&V was from a variety of sources, and (c) reading of daily educational material. Weeks 1-4 included weekly Zoom check-in …

Differences In Physiological Responses Between Two Repeated Sprint Protocols In Female Soccer Players, Emma Hörnlund, Spyridon Hadjispyrou, Apostolos Theos

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(6): 1605-1617, 2024. Soccer is a team sport characterized by repeated high-intensity sprints followed by brief periods of recovery. Repeated sprints with (RCOD) and without (RSA) change-of-direction has therefore been recognized as an important fitness component. The purpose of the present study was to examine the differences in physiological responses between RSA and RCOD, and the relationship with Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (YYIR1), as an estimate of aerobic capacity, in female soccer players. Thirteen female soccer players (age: 20.8 ± 2.6 years) participated. All players performed an RSA and RCOD test, as well as a …

Distinct Visual Processing Patterns In Female Elite Athletes: A Comparative Study Of Gymnastics, Soccer, And Esports Using Visual P300 Event-Related Potentials, Papatsorn Ramyarangsi, Simon J. Bennett, Vorasith Siripornpanich, Ampika Nanbancha, Akachai Pokaisasawan, Prapan Noppongsakit, Amornpan Ajjimaporn

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(5): 1595-1604, 2024. Visual processing is crucial for sports performance, influencing athletes' ability to interpret and respond to visual stimuli. This study investigated distinct visual processing patterns among Thai elite athletes in gymnastics, soccer, and esports, utilizing visual P300 event-related potentials (P300 ERPs). Forty-two female athletes (14 gymnasts, 14 soccer players, and 14 esports athletes) participated. Visual P300 ERP responses were stimulated using the visual oddball paradigm. One-way ANOVA was employed to assess significant differences among the groups in P300 ERPs data, including amplitude and latency of waveforms, response time, and accuracy rate. Significant differences …

Can Lower-Body Strength And Power Alleviate Load Carriage Performance Decrements (Tactical Deficit) In Simulated Law Enforcement Job Tasks?, Ashley M. Bloodgood, Joseph Dulla, Megan Thompson, Matthew R. Moreno, Robin (Rob) Marc Orr, J. Jay Dawes, Robert G. Lockie

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 1577-1594, 2024. Law enforcement agencies typically have recruits complete fitness assessments without personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE negatively impacts performance. Greater strength and power could alleviate performance decrements due to the extra load, termed the tactical deficit (TD). The purpose of this study was to examine whether lower-body strength or power related to the TD in civilians performing police tasks. Twenty participants (12 men, 8 women) completed baseline tests, including: standing broad jump (SBJ); relative SBJ; absolute and relative isometric leg/back dynamometer (LBD) and one-repetition maximum hexagonal bar deadlift (HBD). In two other sessions, …

Heart Rate And Blood Pressure Responses Vary Between Blood Flow Restriction Cuff Type, Daniela Rincon Garcia, Abbey C. Hafler, Rebecca F. Rodriguez, Erica M. Marshall

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 1568-1576, 2024. The purpose of the study was to compare heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) following high load resistance exercise (HLRE) and blood flow restriction exercise (BFRE) with a knee wrap (kBFRE) and pneumatic cuff (pBFRE). Eleven men (N = 9) and women (N = 2) participated. HR, SBP, and DBP were collected at Rest, immediately post exercise (IP), 10-, 30-, and 45-minutes post exercise. Repeated measures ANOVAs assessed the effects of condition across time on all variables. Significant effects were examined with pairwise comparisons and a …

Relative Age Effect For Different Playing Positions In Adolescent Female Volleyball Players, Christos Ntozis, Karolina Barzouka, Apostolos Z. Skouras, Evgenia Cherouveim, Flora Papitsi, Nikolaos Apostolidis, Charilaos Tsolakis

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 1553-1567, 2024. Understanding the Relative Age Effect (RAE) in female volleyball can provide a deeper insight into potential developmental advantages and selection biases between playing positions and volleyball-related performance characteristics. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of the RAE in adolescent female volleyball players according to the playing position and the possible differences in anthropometric and performance characteristics between the relative age groups. The study involved 193 young female volleyball players from 12 different regions and 108 sports clubs from all over Greece, with an average age of 14.53 ± 0.31 years, height …

The Effects Of Mental Fatigue Induced By The Stroop Test On Muscular Endurance Performance And Neuromuscular Activation In Division Iii Female Athletes, Francesca Cuchna, Jeffrey Herrick, Price Blair, Sean Collins

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 1540-1552, 2024. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect that mental fatigue, as induced by a Stroop test, has on resistance training performance outcomes such as muscular endurance, power output, and neuromuscular activation. Seven female college-aged NCAA Division III student-athletes with at least one year of resistance training experience and were within the 50th percentile for maximal aerobic capacity provided informed consent for participation. During two separate visits, using a within-subject crossover experimental design, subjects completed either the experimental or control condition. Subjects then completed a to-failure leg press test at …

Effects Of Different Warm-Up Protocols On The Cardiopulmonary Responses To Exercise Testing In Youth, Avery D. Faigenbaum, Jie Kang, Jenna Ingui, Aidan Fish, Jessica Dimatteo, Izzy Leazier, Jill Bush, Nicholas Ratamess

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 1530-1539, 2024. The aim of this study was to compare the warm-up effects of a treadmill walking warm-up (TW) with a dynamic warm-up (DW) on the responses to cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in youth. A sample of 16 active youth (age 13.6 ± 1.8 yr) were tested for peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ peak) using the Fitkids treadmill test protocol on 2 nonconsecutive days following different 6-min warm-up procedures. The TW consisted of walking on a treadmill at 2.2 mph and 0% grade whereas the DW consisted of 12 bodyweight exercises with a 2 …

A Comparison Of Achilles Tendon Morphological Characteristics Based Upon Visa-A Score In Active Adults Over Age 50, Joshua Sponbeck, Brie Gisseman, Christian Lefevre, Emily Shuler, Ron Hager, A. Wayne Johnson

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(3): 1517-1529, 2024. Morphologic Achilles tendon properties obtained via diagnostic ultrasound imaging are valuable in understanding Achilles tendon health and injury. Currently, limited information exists regarding Achilles tendon morphological properties amongst active aging adults based upon Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment (VISA-A) scores. Achilles tendon morphologic properties defined by VISA-A score groupings allow clinicians and researchers to compare data values amongst current patients. Purpose: Comparison of physically active aging adults Achilles tendon morphological properties with various VISA-A scores or a previous Achilles tendon rupture. A convenience sample of 121 participants (71 females, 50 males) at …

Leisure-Time Physical Activity And Motivation In Police Cadets: A Self-Determination Study, Sébastien Poirier, François Trudeau, Julie Houle

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(5): 1504-1516, 2024. Several studies have highlighted the importance of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) for the health and performance of law enforcement officers. Nevertheless, a considerable proportion of officers still fail to engage in any LTPA. There is a clear need to identify correlates of physical activity among this specific occupational group to help the design of workplace physical activity interventions. Rooted in the self-determination theory, this study seeks to assess the LTPA level of police cadets and examine its relationship with the different regulatory forms of motivation. In this cross-sectional study, 188 police cadets …

High-Intensity Exercise In Community-Based Boxing Improves Functional Limitations In Individuals With Parkinson’S Disease, Linnette Ramos, Jessica Watson, Ryan Macalintal, Carrie Ellis

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(3): 1493-1503, 2024. Various exercise types may slow disease progression and improve physical function for people with Parkinson’s disease (PWP), including community-based boxing programs (CBP). Recent research suggests that high-intensity exercise may result in greater benefits for PWP. Participants in CBP, which are typically self-paced, may not be reaching this optimal intensity. This study examines if it is feasible and beneficial for PWP to perform high-intensity exercise in a CBP. Seven subjects diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease participated in a multimodal CBP twice a week for six weeks while wearing heart rate (HR) monitors to help …

The Interaction Of Treadmill Type And Incline Slope On Biomechanics And Muscle Activation During Human Locomotion, Rohit Kundu, Ricardo Sanchez, Taj Krieger, Eli Lankford

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(1): 1478-1492, 2024. To investigate the effects of differing treadmills on impact acceleration and muscle activation. Methods: 15 males and 7 females (27.8 ± 7.7yrs), engaged in two sessions of high-incline walking (HIW), and low-incline jogging (LIJ) on different deck systems (cushioned) treadmills (TM1 and TM2). Sessions lasted 5-minutes, and participants maintained a self-selected pace matched for each session. EMG markers were placed over the Tibialis Anterior (TA), Soleus (SOL), Lateral Gastrocnemius (LG), Biceps Femoris (BF), Gluteus Maximus (GM), Anterior Deltoid (AD), Vastus Lateralis (VL), and the Erector Spinae (ES). Trident Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) …

Effect Of Sex And Age On Knee Strength In Young Athletes: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Hui Gao, Xiaoquan Luo

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(6): 1461-1477, 2024. The purpose was to summarize the studies examining knee strength in young athletes and provide valuable insights into the magnitude of changes in knee flexion and extension strength during the transition from pre-puberty to puberty among male and female athletes. The literature search was conducted through Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science. Cohen’s effect size (ES) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using a random effects model. While comparing males and females, as well as pre-puberty and puberty stages, we conducted subgroup analyses for pre-puberty versus puberty and for males …

Acute Effects Of Serial And Integrated Concurrent Exercise On Circulating Micrornas -126 And -222 In Sedentary Adults, Matthew F. Brisebois, Ryan A. Gordon, Emily L. Zumbro, Matthew L. Sokoloski, Anthony A. Duplanty, Shanil Juma, Brandon R. Rigby

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 1444-1460, 2024. The purpose of this study was to compare changes in circulating microRNAs -126 (c-miR-126) and -222 (c-miR-222) following acute serial concurrent exercise (SCE) and integrated concurrent exercise (ICE) sessions among young, sedentary adults. Ten males and 9 females completed the study procedures. For SCE, participants performed resistance exercise (RE) followed by aerobic exercise (AE), without mixing the two. For ICE, participants performed a brief bout of AE before each set of RE. Blood was collected before, immediately after (IP), and 1 h (1HR) after each exercise session. Expression of c-miR-126 significantly increased …

Effects Of Lactate On Corticospinal Excitability: A Scoping Review, Jess T. Gibson, Hudson J. Barr, Shaun G. Boe

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 1429-1443, 2024. Aerobic exercise has been shown to impact corticospinal excitability (CSE), however the mechanism(s) by which this occurs is unclear. Some evidence suggests an increase in blood lactate concentration resulting from exercise may be what is driving these changes in corticospinal excitability. The extent of literature examining this effect and whether it is consistent across the literature is unknown. As such, the objective of this scoping review was to summarize the existing literature examining the effect of lactate on corticospinal excitability and to determine any trend(s) in the effect. Embase, CINAHL, Medline, SPORTDiscus, …

Effectiveness Of A Fast- Vs. Slow-Velocity Training On Load-Velocity Characteristics In Older Adults: A Pilot Study, Blake Murphy, Kelley Hammond, Leland Barker, Mae Grahek, Mikayla Grocki, Jake A. Siedlik, Mitchel Magrini

International Journal of Exercise Science

Resistance training at fast velocities is suggested to be more effective for improving muscular strength and movement speed compared slow, heavy training. This study aimed to examine the effects of a fast-velocity (FVRT) compared to a slow-velocity (SVRT) resistance training program on maximal strength, maximal movement speed, and load-velocity characteristics in older adults. Nineteen community-dwelling older adults were randomly assigned to either the FVRT or SVRT group and completed a twice weekly, progressive resistance training protocol for 8-weeks. Both groups were instructed to move the weight “as fast as possible” and received movement velocity biofeedback. Absolute (1RM_ABS) and …

Influence Of Fatigue On The Modification Of Biomechanical Parameters In Endurance Running: A Systematic Review, Javier Olaya-Cuartero, Berta Lopez-Arbues, Jose M. Jimenez-Olmedo, Lamberto Villalon-Gasch

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(1): 1377-1391, 2024. Fatigue accumulated during the practice of endurance running can be understood as the decrease in sports performance caused by physical exertion. Since fatigue can manifest itself in multiple ways, its influence is difficult to understand, and many authors propose different studies with the aim of obtaining firm conclusions. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to analyze the effect of fatigue on the modification of biomechanical parameters to mitigate adverse effects and optimize positive adaptations to training. A systematic review was carried out using scientific research papers from specific sport science …

Ankle Stability And Single-Leg Balance Control In Collegiate Female Soccer Players Versus Non-Soccer Players, Jesus Aguilar, Courtnie Cano, Matthew Cunningham, You-Jou Hung

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(6): 1406-1415, 2024. Ankle sprains are common in female soccer players. Ankle injuries have the potential to impact balance control, which can further contribute to recurrent injuries. This study aimed to examine if female collegiate soccer players exhibited worse ankle stability and single-leg balance than female non-soccer players, and whether there was a correlation between ankle stability and single-leg balance. Eighteen female collegiate soccer players and 22 female non-soccer players participated in the study. The Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) was used to evaluate ankle stability. The Athletic Single Leg Stability Test (ASLST) of the …

The Effects Of High-Intensity Functional Training On The Perceptions Of Exercise In Middle-Aged Females: A Pilot Study, Halle N. Brin, Baylie G. Sigmund, Nathan D. Dicks, Kathryn J. Deshaw, Tanis J. Walch, Michael J. Carper, Allison M. Barry

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(5): 1392-1405, 2024. The high prevalence of obesity and physical inactivity in the U.S. is a public health crisis. This study aims to examine the effects of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) on exercise perceptions and physiological changes in inactive females. A pre-test and post-test, quasi-experimental design was conducted with inactive, middle-aged females (n = 8) participating in an 8-week supervised and verified intervention (2-week High-Intensity Interval Training, 6-weeks HIFT). The Health Belief Model Scale for Exercise (HBMS-E) survey was completed pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up to assess exercise perceptions. Pre- and post-intervention physiological assessments …

Examining Changes In Pain Sensitivity Following 8 Minutes Of Cycling At Varying Exercise Intensities, Brandi B. Antonio, Jeffrey Stout, Danielle Sterner, Abigail Anderson, David Fukuda

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(7): 1337-1351, 2024. This study assessed the effect of an eight-minute cycling intervention using varying intensities on exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH). The main objective of this study was to examine the effect of varying intensities on pressure pain threshold (PPT) and heat pain threshold (HPT) at the thigh and forearm, tested pre- and post-cycling intervention. Healthy male participants (n = 16) performed a graded exercise test on a cycle ergometer to establish their peak power output (PPO). In subsequent visits, participants completed five different 8-minute cycling interventions, with intensities randomly assigned to one of three …

Perceptions Of Peer And Parental Support: Feasibility Of A Physical Activity Intervention For Adolescent Girls, Avery G. Douglas, Deirdre Dlugonski, Johanna M. Hoch

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(5): 1352-1360, 2024. Physical activity (PA) has a wide range of health benefits. Children with high levels of social support are more likely to achieve adequate levels of PA. The purposes of this pilot study were to examine the impact of an after-school intervention on perceived peer and parental support among adolescent girls and to identify correlates of support to explore in future studies to increase PA. Seventeen low-active girls in 6th–7th grade were recruited from a local middle school to participate in an 8-week intervention where they were exposed to various types of PA …