Ismael Martínez-Guardado

Background: Previous research suggests that resistance training in hypoxia can cause physiological and muscle adaptations. However, this method may not be efficient for individuals who are training to optimize maximal strength and power. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of high-intensity resistance circuit in normobaric hypoxic conditions on maximal and explosive measures of muscle strength in upper and lower limbs. Methods: A total of 28 subjects were randomly assigned to either hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen [F_IO₂] = 15%; HRC_hyp: n = 15; age: 24.6 ± 6.8 years; height: 177.4 ± 5.9 cm; weight: 74.9 ± 11.5 kg) or normoxia [F_IO₂] = 20.9%; HRC_norm: n = 13; age: 23.2 ± 5.2 years; height: 173.4 ± 6.2 cm; weight: 69.4 ± 7.4 kg) groups. Training sessions consisted of two blocks of three exercises and the training intensity was fixed performed at six repetition maximum. Participants exercised twice weekly for 8 weeks, and upper and lower body power tests were performed before and after the training program. The statistical analysis applied was a two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures and Bonferroni post hoc. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups. However, the hypoxia group showed higher intra-group differences in absolute (N) (F = 7.97; Δ7.3%; p < 0.05; ES = 0.49) and relative (N/Kg) (F = 8.34; Δ7.2%; p < 0.05; ES = 0.49) maximum push-up force after the training period. Conclusions: Hypoxic circuit training may improve a specific upper body performance outcome, but no clear advantage over normoxia was observed.

Purpose: Interset rest (ISR) is a variable of resistance training (RT) that has received limited attention and focused mainly on the length of the ISR rather than examining the effects of different stimuli when using the same ISR duration. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 2-minute passive (PAS) or active ISR (ACT) on intraset velocity loss, blood lactate concentrations, and rating of perceived exertion during bench press in resistance-trained men. Methods: Fourteen participants (23.64 [2.02] y, 82.79 [10.74] kg, 181.50 [7.02] m, maximal power in bench press 660 [113] W) completed 2 RT sessions of 5 × 8 repetitions at maximal velocity using individual optimal load for maximal power output with 2-minute PAS or ACT ISR. During the ACT, participants completed repetitions of vertical chest press at 5% to 10% 1-repetition maximum at a controlled velocity. The intraset velocity loss was measured using a lineal encoder, and blood lactate concentrations and rating of perceived exertion before and after each set were registered. Results: Intraset velocity loss was lower in ACT compared with the PAS protocol, without statistically significant differences (P = .571). Blood lactate concentrations increased across the session for both ISR protocols, but this increase was diminished in ACT compared with PAS, without statistical meaning (P > .05). Conclusions: Continuing to perform the same activation during rest intervals was well-tolerated and may reduce the loss of performance due to accumulated workload throughout an RT session, suggesting that ACT may trigger a metabolic advantage in exercise performance for consecutive sets during an RT bout.

Objective: This study examined the effects of a short-duration plyometric training program during physical education on neuromuscular ballistic performance in youth. Methods: Thirty-two students were assigned to a control group (CG; n = 16; age: 16.76 ± 0.72 years; height: 1.66 ± 0.09 m; body mass: 61.38 ± 6.07 kg) or an experimental group (EG; n = 16; age: 16.56 ± 0.62 years; height: 1.69 ± 0.09 m; body mass: 61.90 ± 7.83 kg). Both groups completed pre- and post-intervention Countermovement Jump (CMJ) tests using force plates. Over a four-week period, the EG completed eight sessions. Both the EG and the CG participated in 40 min sessions incorporating speed games, directional changes, and agility exercises. Paired t-tests and Cohen’s d were used for analysis. Results: The EG showed significant improvements in jump height (p = 0.006, ES = 0.83), jump momentum (p = 0.008, ES = 0.80), and take-off velocity (p = 0.003, ES = 0.93), with a decrease in peak propulsive power (p = 0.01, ES = 0.77). In contrast, the CG exhibited declines in multiple metrics, including jump height, jump momentum, and take-off velocity. Conclusions: These findings suggest that integrating plyometric training into physical education classes can effectively enhance neuromuscular performance in youth. Implementing structured training protocols within school programs may optimize strength, power, and movement efficiency, benefiting long-term athletic development.

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation, contributing to insulin resistance and long-term complications. Dietary antioxidants from plant sources, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids, have been increasingly studied for their potential to modulate these pathophysiological mechanisms. Objective: This review aims to summarize and critically analyze the current evidence on the biological effects, therapeutic potential, and translational challenges of plant-derived antioxidants in the prevention and management of T2DM. Methods: This narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Emphasis was placed on mechanistic studies, clinical trials, bioavailability data, and advances in formulation technologies related to antioxidant compounds in the context of T2DM. Results: Plant antioxidants exert beneficial effects by modulating oxidative stress, reducing systemic inflammation, and improving insulin signaling pathways. However, their clinical application is limited by low bioavailability, chemical instability, and high interindividual variability. Recent developments, such as nanoencapsulation, synergistic functional food formulations, and microbiome-targeted strategies, have shown promise in enhancing efficacy. Additionally, personalized nutrition approaches and regulatory advances are emerging to support the integration of antioxidant-based interventions into diabetes care. Conclusions: Plant-derived antioxidants represent a promising complementary tool for T2DM management. Nonetheless, their effective clinical use depends on overcoming pharmacokinetic limitations and validating their long-term efficacy in well-designed trials. Integrating food technology, microbiome science, and precision nutrition will be crucial to translate these compounds into safe, scalable, and personalized therapeutic options for individuals with or at risk of T2DM.

Background/Objectives: This longitudinal randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effects of an integrative neuromuscular training (INT) intervention on strength and speed measures in Spanish students across different age groups. Methods: A total of 121 students, aged 11–12 (G1) and 15–16 (G2), were randomly assigned to four groups: two experimental groups, G1exp (n = 30) and G2exp (n = 31), and two control groups, G1con (n = 30) and G2 (n = 30). Experimental groups participated in two 20 min INT sessions per week for four weeks, focusing on physical literacy (agility, coordination, balance, and speed) and a resistance training program, integrated into the first part of physical education classes (PEC). Results: Experimental groups showed significant improvements (p < 0.001) in lower-body power (G1exp: t = −7.04; d = −1.30; G2exp: t = −5.19; d = −0.91), upper-body power (G1exp: t = −5.94; d = −1.10; G2exp: t = −3.52; d = −0.62), abdominal endurance strength (G1exp: t = −9.72; d = −1.80; G2exp: t = −4.75; d = −0.84) and sprinting (G1exp: t = 5.22; d = 0.96; G2exp: t = 5.90; d = 1.04). A comparison by age groups revealed significantly greater improvements in upper-body power in G1 vs. G2 (t:−2.83; p = 0.02). Conclusions: A four-week INT program implemented at the start of PE classes can improve strength and sprint performance in youth across all ages. We recommend incorporating INT into the first part of physical education sessions to contribute to meeting the physical activity, well-being and conditioning needs of young people.

Background: The Mediterranean diet (MD) and physical activity (PA) are inversely associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Objectives: We aimed to determine the correlation between MD, PA, and MetS variables among Iranian adults. Methods: A random sampling method was used across five cities in Iran, with participants selected from healthcare centers. A total of 284 individuals diagnosed with MetS, aged 30 to 59 and over 60 years, participated. The MD and PA were assessed using the MD and Short International PA Questionnaires (Ipaq). The MetS was defined based on international criteria. Results: Men had significantly higher MetS risk scores than women (P ≤ 0.05, effect size: d = 0.37). Overall, PA was significantly higher in individuals aged 30 - 60 years compared to those over 60 years old (P ≤ 0.001, effect size: d = 0.64), while those over 60 years showed a higher MD score than individuals aged 30 - 60 years (P ≤ 0.001, effect size: d = 0.49). The MetS did not correlate with MD and PA (P > 0.05). However, there was an inverse correlation between MD and light PA (P < 0.05). Finally, our dependent variables were influenced by the city of residence (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Central obesity and a history of metabolic disorders are the main reasons for the prevalence of MetS in our study. The lower PA levels in older adults, along with the early onset of MetS, highlight the need for social policies that promote a Mediterranean lifestyle. These findings are consistent with existing literature, which suggests that environmental and cultural factors play a role in health outcomes. Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of this issue. Central obesity and a history of metabolic disorders are the main reasons for the prevalence of MetS in our study. The lower PA levels in older adults, along with the early onset of MetS, highlight the need for social policies that promote a Mediterranean lifestyle. These findings are consistent with existing literature, which suggests that environmental and cultural factors play a role in health outcomes. Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of this issue.

The increasing ubiquity of digital devices in childhood had outpaced the understanding of their effects on cognitive development, creating a significant research gap regarding their long-term impact. Objective: The present narrative overview explored the complex relationship between digital device usage and cognitive development in childhood. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, to critically assess cognitive domains such as attention, memory, executive functions, problem-solving skills, and social cognition. Incorporating over 157 peer-reviewed studies published between 2001 and 2024, we used strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure scientific rigor. Results: The review integrated empirical findings with established theoretical frameworks, particularly from cognitive development and media psychology, to highlight both the advantages and risks of early, frequent exposure to technology. The potential for digital devices to enhance cognitive skills, such as multitasking and information processing, was weighed against risks such as cognitive overload, diminished attention spans, and impaired social skills. We also examined psychological and behavioral outcomes, including identity formation, emotional regulation, and maladaptive behaviors associated with excessive screen time. Additionally, we identified strategies to mitigate negative effects, emphasizing structured digital engagement and parental involvement to support healthy cognitive and psychological growth. Our findings provided actionable recommendations for parents, educators, and policymakers, promoting optimal digital practices that enhanced cognitive development while safeguarding against potential harms. Conclusions: The review offered essential insights for stakeholders in child development, education, and policy-making, highlighting the need for balanced integration of digital tools in childhood learning environments.

Background: Although the comparison between self-managed rest and fixed rest periods in subjects experienced in lower-limb strength training has been investigated, the results remain unclear due to controversies among some studies. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the role of self-managed rest versus fixed rest in athletic performance, mean propulsive velocity, velocity loss, muscle oxygen saturation, and rest time in trained subjects; Methods: Thirteen subjects with a minimum of one year of training experience (age (years): 26.31 ± 3.84; height (cm): 175.46 ± 5.61; weight (kg): 79.24 ± 6.83) were randomly assigned to two groups (self-selected rest group [SR] = 7 and fixed rest group [FR] = 6). The subjects underwent a session for evaluation (one maximum repetition (1RM) estimation, familiarization, and data collection) and another day for a traditional strength training session for the back squat, consisting of five sets of four repetitions at 80% of 1RM. One group took a fixed 2 min break, while the other group managed their breaks autonomously (resuming when they felt ready to perform the next set at maximum velocity). Mean propulsive velocity (MPV) was monitored using a linear position transducer, and muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) was measured with a near-infrared spectroscopy device; Results: Significant differences between the groups were found for the rest time between the first and second sets (SR 97.29 ± 23.70 seg vs. FR 120 ± 0.00 seg). However, no differences were found for MPV, velocity loss, or SmO2; Conclusions: Given the similarities in performance and physiological outcomes between fixed and self-selected rest conditions, both can be used equally depending on the preferences and training goals of coaches and athletes.

Mental health is an increasing topic of focus since more than 500 million people in the world suffer from depression and anxiety. In this multifactorial disorder, parameters such as inflammation, the state of the microbiota and, therefore, the patient’s nutrition are receiving more attention. In addition, food products are the source of many essential ingredients involved in the regulation of mental processes, including amino acids, neurotransmitters, vitamins, and others. For this reason, this narrative review was carried out with the aim of analyzing the role of nutrition in depression and anxiety disorders. To reach the review aim, a critical review was conducted utilizing both primary sources, such as scientific publications and secondary sources, such as bibliographic indexes, web pages, and databases. The search was conducted in PsychINFO, MedLine (Pubmed), Cochrane (Wiley), Embase, and CinAhl. The results show a direct relationship between what we eat and the state of our nervous system. The gut–brain axis is a complex system in which the intestinal microbiota communicates directly with our nervous system and provides it with neurotransmitters for its proper functioning. An imbalance in our microbiota due to poor nutrition will cause an inflammatory response that, if sustained over time and together with other factors, can lead to disorders such as anxiety and depression. Changes in the functions of the microbiota–gut–brain axis have been linked to several mental disorders. It is believed that the modulation of the microbiome composition may be an effective strategy for a new treatment of these disorders. Modifications in nutritional behaviors and the use of ergogenic components are presented as important non-pharmacological interventions in anxiety and depression prevention and treatment. It is desirable that the choice of nutritional and probiotic treatment in individual patients be based on the results of appropriate biochemical and microbiological tests.