No abstract

A strong positive and linear relationship was observed between the rating of perceived exertion and both heart rate and applied force. The OMNI-RES scale with elastic bands demonstrated to be a valid method for assessing the perceived exertion during resistance exercises and consequently represent a useful tool for prescribing exercise intensity to the elderly.

Training with elastic devices at a moderate-high RPE produces short-term improvements in BC and PP in OOW.

The squat is one of the most commonly used resistance exercises for performance and health due to its biomechanical and neuromuscular similarities to a wide range of athletic and everyday activities. There is a large number of squat variations (based on the descent depth, width of the stance, bar placement) with significant biomechanical and neuromuscular differences between them. The aim of this study was to systematically review the scientific literature to gather data on the muscular activation of the lower limb during different variants of the squat exercise. High-bar squat (full range of motion, to parallel and partial range of motion), low-bar squat, front squat, overhead squat and guided squat on Smith machine were included in the analysis. 30 articles met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Quality of the included studies was analysed with the PEDro scale. Main findings were that in the squat exercise activation of the knee-extensors is predominant. However, different activation patterns were observed with different distances between the feet, different depths, hips rotation or flexion, intensities. For instance, low-bar squat involves a greater hip hinge and thus, provokes major activation on the hip-extensors than other squat variations. It is worth highlighting that similar activation patterns were observed between the front squat and the high-bar squat. The variation with least activation was the guided squat. The evidence presented in this study may help the strength and conditioning professionals and practitioners with the exercise selection depending on the muscular targets and the individual characteristics of the athlete.

To compare the effects of playing one or two games per week on subjective perceived exertion (RPE) and (RPE-based) training load, monotony index, sleep, stress, fatigue, and muscle soreness (Hooper index), total mood disturbance, and injury rate in elite soccer players. Fourteen males from a first-division soccer club (age: 24.42 ± 4.80 years) competed in two games per week for six weeks and one game per week for twelve weeks (a total of 24 games). Paired t-tests and non-parametric Wilcoxon signed ranks evaluated the significance of the differences (p < 0.05). The main findings were that RPE was significantly larger when playing two games per week compared with one game. However, subject total and mean training load, mood disturbance, monotony, and subjective perception of sleep, stress, fatigue, muscle soreness monitoring (Hooper index), and the number of injuries were not different. The findings suggested that competing in two matches per week does not negatively influence injury rate and players’ perceptions of training load or wellness, even though players perceive two games per week as more physically demanding compared with one game per week.