Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo
@uemc.es
Department of Health Sciences, European University Miguel de Cervantes
Lecturer and Researcher
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Resistance training, exercise physiology, eccentric exercise, neuromuscular performance.
Scopus Publications
Scopus Publications
Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Patricia Mulero, Héctor Menéndez, José Pinto-Fraga, Simone Lista, Alejandro Santos-Lozano, and Nieves Téllez
MDPI AG
Background: Resistance training (RT) has been recognized as a beneficial non-pharmacological intervention for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, but its impact on neurodegeneration is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of high-intensity RT on muscle mass, strength, functional capacity, and axonal damage in MS patients. Methods: Eleven relapsing–remitting MS patients volunteered in this within-subject counterbalanced intervention study. Serum neurofilament light-chain (NfL) concentration, vastus lateralis thickness (VL), timed up-and-go test (TUG), sit-to-stand test (60STS), and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) were measured before and after intervention. Participants performed 18 sessions of high-intensity RT (70–80% 1-RM) over 6 weeks. Results: Significant (p < 0.05) differences were observed post-intervention for VL (ES = 2.15), TUG (ES = 1.98), 60STS (ES = 1.70), MVIC (ES = 1.78), and NfL (ES = 1.43). Although moderate correlations between changes in VL (R = 0.434), TUG (R = −0.536), and MVIC (R = 0.477) and changes in NfL were observed, only the correlation between VL and MVIC changes was significant (R = 0.684, p = 0.029). Conclusions: A 6-week RT program significantly increased muscle mass, functional capacity, and neuromuscular function while also decreasing serum NfL in MS patients. These results suggest the effectiveness of RT as a non-pharmacological approach to mitigate neurodegeneration while improving functional capacity in MS patients.
Oliver Gonzalo-Skok, Julio Tous-Fajardo, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Javier Raya-González, and Javier Sánchez-Sánchez
Human Kinetics
Purpose: To compare the effects of unilateral flywheel training (FT), using a rotational conical pulley, including multidirectional movements with either preplanned or random unanticipated/unexpected executions on functional performance in football players. Methods: A total of 32 young male football players were randomly assigned to an FT program including preplanned unilateral multidirectional movements (PTG, n = 11), an FT executing the same unilateral movements through random (ie, right or left leg) unanticipated (ie, verbal or visual cue) or unexpected (ie, moment where the cue was provided) situations (UTG, n = 11), or a control group (n = 10) that followed their football training routine. FT consisted of 1 set × 5–12 repetitions of 4 exercises performed once a week for 10 weeks. Intermittent endurance performance, repeated unilateral and bilateral jumping ability, change-of-direction (COD) ability, linear sprint velocity, preplanned repeated-sprint ability (RSA), and uncertainty RSA (RSA-RANDOM) were assessed preintervention and postintervention. Results: Significant improvements were found in RSA-RANDOM performance (P < .05, effect size [ES] range: UTG [1.83–2.16], PTG [0.69–0.73]) and COD (P < .05, ES: UTG = 1.34, PTG = 0.98]) in both training groups. Furthermore, significant improvements were also found in intermittent endurance performance (P = .016, ES = 0.37) and sprinting (P = .006, ES = 0.45) in UTG. No changes in any variable were found in the control group. No significant between-groups differences (P > .05) were reported between UTG and PTG, while differences were observed to the control group in unilateral jumping ability, COD, and RSA-RANDOM for UTG, and in RSA-RANDOM for PTG. Conclusions: A 10-week unilateral FT improved RSA-RANDOM and COD ability in youth football players, so both preplanned and unexpected situations should be included on strength training.
Saúl Peñín-Grandes, Susana López-Ortiz, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Héctor Menéndez, José Pinto-Fraga, Juan Martín-Hernández, Simone Lista, Alejandro Lucia, and Alejandro Santos-Lozano
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Abstract Aims This systematic review aims to evaluate and summarize findings from published meta-analyses on the effects of regular exercise in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The review will assess the impact of exercise on functional parameters, health-related quality of life, haemodynamic parameters, physical activity levels, adverse events, and mortality. Methods and results A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases (up to May 2023) to identify meta-analyses including randomized controlled trials that examined the effects of regular exercise in patients with PAD. Sixteen studies, with a total of 198 meta-analyses, were identified. Results revealed with strong evidence that patients with PAD who exercised improved functional and health-related quality of life parameters. Specifically, supervised aerobic exercise (i.e. walking to moderate–maximum claudication pain) improves maximum walking distance [mean difference (MD): 177.94 m, 95% confidence interval (CI) 142.29–213.60; P &lt; 0.00001; I2: 65%], pain-free walking distance (fixed MD: 68.78 m, 95% CI 54.35–83.21; P &lt; 0.00001; I2: 67%), self-reported walking ability [i.e. distance score (MD: 9.22 points, 95% CI 5.74–12.70; P &lt; 0.00001; I2: 0%), speed score (MD: 8.71 points, 95% CI 5.64–11.77; P &lt; 0.00001, I2: 0%), stair-climbing score (MD: 8.02 points, 95% CI 4.84–11.21; P &lt; 0.00001, I2: 0%), and combined score (MD: 8.76 points, 95% CI 2.78–14.74; P &lt; 0.0001, I2: 0%)], aerobic capacity (fixed MD: 0.62 mL/kg/min, 95% CI 0.47–0.77, P &lt; 0.00001, I2: 64%), and pain score (MD: 7.65, 95% CI 3.15–12.15; P = 0.0009; I2: 0%), while resistance exercise improves lower limb strength (standardized mean difference: 0.71, 95% CI 0.29–1.13, P = 0.0009; I2: 0%]. Regarding other outcomes, such as haemodynamic parameters, no significant evidence was found, while physical activity levels, adverse events, and mortality require further investigation. Conclusion Synthesis of the currently available meta-analyses suggests that regular exercise may be beneficial for a broad range of functional tasks improving health-related quality of life in patients with PAD. Supervised aerobic exercise is the best type of exercise to improve walking-related outcomes and pain, while resistance exercise is more effective to improve lower limb strength.
Marco Beato, Kevin L. de Keijzer, Alejandro Muñoz-Lopez, Javier Raya-González, Marco Pozzo, Björn A. Alkner, Antonio Dello Iacono, Jordi Vicens-Bordas, Giuseppe Coratella, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo,et al.
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Background Flywheel resistance training has become more integrated within resistance training programs in a variety of sports due to the neuromuscular, strength, and task-specific enhancements reported with this training. Objective This paper aimed to present the consensus reached by internationally recognized experts during a meeting on current definitions and guidelines for the implementation of flywheel resistance training technology in sports. Methods Nineteen experts from different countries took part in the consensus process; 16 of them were present at the consensus meeting (18 May 2023) while three submitted their recommendations by e-mail. Prior to the meeting, evidence summaries were developed relating to areas of priority. This paper discusses the available evidence and consensus process from which recommendations were made regarding the appropriate use of flywheel resistance training technology in sports. The process to gain consensus had five steps: (1) performing a systematic review of systematic reviews, (2) updating the most recent umbrella review published on this topic, (3) first round discussion among a sample of the research group included in this consensus statement, (4) selection of research group members—process of the consensus meeting and formulation of the recommendations, and (5) the consensus process. The systematic analysis of the literature was performed to select the most up-to-date review papers available on the topic, which resulted in nine articles; their methodological quality was assessed according to AMSTAR 2 (Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Review 2) and GRADE (Grading Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation). Statements and recommendations scoring 7–9 were considered appropriate. Results The recommendations were based on the evidence summary and researchers’ expertise; the consensus statement included three statements and seven recommendations for the use of flywheel resistance training technology. These statements and recommendations were anonymously voted on and qualitatively analyzed. The three statements reported a score ranging from 8.1 to 8.8, and therefore, all statements included in this consensus were considered appropriate. The recommendations (1–7) had a score ranging from 7.7 to 8.6, and therefore, all recommendations were considered appropriate. Conclusions Because of the consensus achieved among the experts in this project, it is suggested that practitioners and researchers should adopt the guidelines reported in this consensus statement regarding the use of flywheel resistance technology in sports.
Alfonso de la Rubia, Adam Leight Kelly, Jorge García-González, Jorge Lorenzo, Daniel Mon-López, and Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo
Termedia Sp. z.o.o.
Sandra Antón San Atanasio, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, and Silvia Sedano
Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Due to the increasing level of professionalism, the high frequency of competitions, and the alarming injury rate observed in elite female soccer players, multidisciplinary strategies, including nutritional monitoring, need to be implemented. This study aimed to quantify energy, macronutrient and micronutrient intakes during the competitive period and to analyze the effects of two different nutritional interventions on nutritional knowledge, anthropometric data, biochemical values and physical performance. 19 elite female soccer players were randomly divided into two groups: the controlled-diet group (CG, n = 10), that followed a diet based on pre-established menus, and the exchange-diet group (EG, n = 9), that designed their own menus with an exchanged list. A cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate the dietary intake, while an experimental randomized controlled trial was designed to compare the effects of both 12-week nutritional interventions. Total energy, CHO, PROT, fibre and micronutrients intakes were below the general recommendations for athletes while, total and saturated fat intakes were above these. Moreover, there were no differences in diet during weekdays, pre-competition and competition days. The study also revealed a low nutritional knowledge and exchanged diet has demonstrated to be a better strategy to improve this. Biochemical monitoring showed that participants presented decreased concentration of haemoglobin and controlled diet may lead to greater effects on haemoglobin concentration and in anemia prevention. Both EG and CG showed significant reduction on skinfolds sum after intervention, but no significant differences were observed in thigh and calf indices. However, no significant changes were observed in soccer-related skills for any group.
Patricia Mulero, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Natán Redondo, Hugo Gonzalo-Benito, Alba Chavarría-Miranda, Hugo Calvo, María I. Cabero, Marita Hernandez, María Luisa Nieto, and Nieves Tellez
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Manuel García-Sillero, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, María Galván-García, Javier Benitez-Porres, Salvador Vargas-Molina, and Jose Manuel Jurado-Castro
MDPI AG
The aim of this study was to verify the effects of blood flow restriction on movement velocity and muscle activity during the back squat exercise. Methods: Twenty-four university students participated in this study. In two randomized sessions 72 h apart, participants performed a 4-set protocol consisting of 30-15-15-15 repetitions performed at 30% of their one-repetition maximum in the back squat exercise. In both sessions, neuromuscular function was monitored by surface electromyography (EMG) and movement velocity (mean propulsive velocity (MPV), peak concentric velocity (Vmax), and the effort index (EI)). Blood flow restriction (BFR) was applied during exercise in one of the experimental sessions with 80% of full arterial occlusion pressure over lower limbs. Results: The BFR condition showed higher (p < 0.05) EI, peak, and rooted mean square normalized EMG in Set 1 compared to Set 2. Similar MPV and Vmax were observed in each set for both the BFR and control conditions. No significant differences were observed between conditions in any set. Conclusions: BFR did not imply changes in neuromuscular performance during low-intensity resistance training, but it might induce greater intra-series velocity loss and less excitation of the muscles involved.
Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Kazunori Nosaka, Jesús Alarcón-Gómez, and Fernando Martín-Rivera
MDPI AG
The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of an Inertial Measurement System integrated into a secondary pulley (IMS) for determining linear velocity during flywheel squat exercises. Thirty-one male participants who were highly experienced in a flywheel resistance exercise training performed flywheel squat exercises with three incremental loads, and mean velocity (MV), mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and max velocity (Vmax) of the exercises were simultaneously recorded with a validated linear encoder and the IMS, in two different sessions. Validity was analyzed using ordinary least products regression (OLP), Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), and Hedge’s g for the values from the linear encoder and the IMS. Test-retest reliability was determined by coefficient of variation (CV), Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and standard error of measurement (SEM). Results showed a high degree of validity (OLP intercept = −0.09–0.00, OLP slope = 0.95–1.04, CCC = 0.96–0.99, Hedge’s g < 0.192, SEM = 0.04–0.08) and reliability (CV < 0.21%, ICC > 0.88, SEM < 0.08). These results confirm that the IMS provides valid and reliable measures of movement velocity during flywheel squat exercises.
Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Fernando Martín-Rivera, Kazunori Nosaka, Marco Beato, Javier González-Gallego, and José A. de Paz
Frontiers Media SA
Introduction: Eccentric-overload (EO) resistance training emerges as an alternative to more optimally prescribe intensity relative to the force generation capabilities of the eccentric muscle contraction. Given the difficulties to individually prescribe absolute eccentric loads relative to each person’s eccentric ability, setting the load relative to the concentric one-repetition maximum (1-RM) is the most used EO training approach. Therefore, we investigated the effects of submaximal and supramaximal (i.e., eccentric loads above 100% of 1-RM) accentuated eccentric training on changes in lean mass, anabolic hormonal responses and muscle function.Methods: Physically active university students (n = 27) were randomly assigned to two training groups. Participants in the training groups performed dominant leg isotonic training twice a week for 10 weeks (four sets of eight repetitions). Isotonic resistance was generated by an electric-motor device at two different percentages of 1-RM for the eccentric phase; 90% submaximal load, SUB group) and 120% (supramaximal load, SUPRA group). Concentric load was the same for both groups (30% of 1-RM). Changes in total thigh lean mass (TTLM), anabolic hormonal responses (growth hormone, IGF-1, IL-6, and total testosterone), unilateral leg-press 1-RM, maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC), local muscle endurance (XRM), muscle power at 40 (PP40), 60 (PP60) and 80% (PP80) of the 1-RM, and unilateral vertical jump height before and after training were compared between groups.Results: After training, both SUB and SUPRA groups showed similar increases (p &lt; 0.05) in MVIC (19.2% and 19.6%), XRM (53.8% and 23.8%), PP40 (16.2% and 15.7%), TTLM (2.5% and 4.2%), IGF-1 (10.0% and 14.1%) and IL-6 (58.6% and 28.6%). However, increases in 1-RM strength (16.3%) and unilateral vertical jump height (10.0%–13.4%) were observed for SUPRA only. Indeed, SUPRA was shown to be more favorable than SUB training for increasing 1-RM [ES = 0.77 (1.49–0.05)]. Unilateral muscle power at medium and high intensity (10.2% and 10.5%) also increased in SUB but without significant differences between groups.Discussion: Similar functional and structural effects were demonstrated after 10 weeks EO training with submaximal and supramaximal eccentric loads. Although supramaximal loading might be superior for increasing 1-RM, the use of this approach does not appear to be necessary in healthy, active individuals.
Marco Beato, Javier Raya-González, Jose’ Luis Hernandez-Davo, and Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo
Frontiers Media SA
Flywheel resistance training was initially designed and implemented to mitigate the negative effects in the absence of gravity on astronauts during space travels (Alkner and Tesch, 2004; Norrbrand et al., 2008). Later on, sport scientists and practitioners understood the advantages offered by this methodology and they started to use flywheel resistance training for several purposes, such as performance development of athletes, injury prevention and clinical rehabilitation (Tesch et al., 2017; Beato and Dello Iacono, 2020; Beato et al., 2021a). Flywheel resistance training offers some specific and unique advantages compared to traditional resistance training, which has increased the popularity of this training methodology. In detail, flywheel training is characterized by the use of rotational inertia to generate resistance throughout the entire range of motion. During the concentric phase, the force applied causes the connected cord/strap to unwind, resulting in the rotation and energy storage of the flywheel–the kinetic energy increases with rotational speed. Upon completing the concentric phase, the cord/strap rewinds, and the user must resist the pull of the flywheel through a braking eccentric phase. By employing the appropriate technique, selecting the right exercise, and using an adequate momentum of inertia, users can achieve an eccentric overload in terms of force and power values (Maroto-Izquierdo et al., 2017; Maroto-Izquierdo et al., 2022). It is important to highlight that the mechanical load performed during both concentric and eccentric phases is the mechanism by which neural and morphological adaptations happen (de Hoyo et al., 2015; Maroto-Izquierdo et al., 2017; De Keijzer et al., 2022). This statement is supported by recent research which reports that flywheel training is a valid method leading to positive morphological changes of muscle structure and architecture, hypertrophy, and strength gains (Maroto-Izquierdo et al., 2017; Allen et al., 2021). Although in the last decade, several researchers have studied the physiological effects of flywheel training and the related acute and chronic adaptations, much OPEN ACCESS
Manuel Garcia-Sillero, Iván Chulvi-Medrano, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Diego A. Bonilla, Salvador Vargas-Molina, and Javier Benítez-Porres
MDPI AG
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of preceding anodal transcranial direct stimulation (a-tDCS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during the back squat exercise on movement velocity and surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity. Thirteen healthy, well-trained, male firefighters (34.72 ± 3.33 years; 178 ± 7.61 cm; 76.85 ± 11.21 kg; 26.8 ± 4.2 kg·m−2; back squat 1-repetition maximum 141.5 ± 16.3 kg) completed this randomised double-blinded sham-controlled crossover study. After familiarisation and basal measurements, participants attended the laboratory on two occasions separated by 72 h to receive either Sham or a-tDCS (current intensity of 2 mA for 20 min). Immediately after stimulation, participants completed three sets of 12 repetitions (70% of 1-RM) with three minutes of recovery between sets monitored with a linear position transducer. The sEMG of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) of both legs were recorded. No significant differences were observed between a-tDCS and Sham interventions on mean concentric velocity at any set (p > 0.05). Velocity loss and effort index were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in set 3 compared to set 1 only in the a-tDCS group. The right-leg RM and right-leg VL elicited the greatest muscle activation during set 1 after a-tDCS and Sham, respectively (p < 0.05). Our results revealed that a-tDCS over the DLPFC might impact movement velocity or fatigue tolerance in well-trained individuals. Notwithstanding, significant differences in dominant-leg muscle activity were found both in a-tDCS and Sham.
Fernando Martín-Rivera, Marco Beato, Vicente Alepuz-Moner, and Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo
Frontiers Media SA
Purpose: To propose the concentric linear velocity measurement as a valid method to quantify load and individualise the prescription of flywheel training, we investigated the relationship between inertial load and mean concentric linear velocity (MCLV) during the flywheel squat exercise in a wide spectrum of intensities. In addition, we compared MCLV and subjective rating of perceived exertion (RPE) after each load.Methods: Twenty-five physically active men volunteered for this study (26.5 ± 2.9 years, 179.5 ± 4.2 cm, 81.6 ± 8.6 kg). After familiarization, all participants performed two inertial progressive load tests on separated days to determine the flywheel load-velocity profile and its reliability. Each participant performed 5 set of 6 repetitions of the flywheel squat exercise with different inertial loads (0.047, 0.104, 0.161, 0.245, 0.321 kg m2) selected in a counterbalanced and randomized order for each testing day. Average MCLV and RPE for each load were compared.Results: The inter-session intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) showed values above 0.9 in all the included outcomes (MCLV: ICC = 0.91; RPE: ICC = 0.93). A significant correlation (p &lt; 0.01, R2 = 0.80) between inertial load and MCLV was found. Similarly, significant correlation models (p &lt; 0.01) were observed between RPE and load (R2 = 0.87) and (R2 = 0.71) between RPE and MCLV.Conclusion: The control of MCLV during flywheel exercise can be proposed as a valid method to quantify load and to individualize the prescription of flywheel training. In addition, RPE responses have demonstrated significant correlations with load and velocity. Therefore, RPE has been proposed as a valid and reliable alternative to control flywheel training.
Iker J Bautista, Fernando Martín-Rivera, Isidoro Martínez, Gregory G Haff, and Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo
SAGE Publications
Purpose The objective of this study was: (1) to compare the effect of the calculation method using average (Avalue), and best value (Bvalue) of Mean Propulsive Velocity (MPV) on the Load Velocity Profile (LVprofile) during the barbell bench press exercise in elite handball players. In addition, (2) to analyze the relationship between the individual coefficient of variation (CVind) of an incremental load protocol in the bench press exercise with relative strength (Frel) in professional handball players. Methods Nineteen elite international handball players (age 18 [±1] y; body mass 93 [±14] kg; height 191 [±6] cm) performed an incremental test during the barbell bench press exercise. General and individual LVprofile, Frel, and CVind were modelled through MPV and two calculation models (Avalue, vs Bvalue). Results There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between both conditions (Bvalue vs. Avalue). There was an inverse relationship between the Frel and the CVind (r = −0.66, p < 0.001). When CVind was >10% significant differences were found between the two calculations method (Avalue, vs Bvalue). However, no significant differences were found between Avalue, vs Bvalue when the CVind was <10%. Conclusions The calculation method used to assess the barbell bench press LVprofile impacts the nature of the relationship. Regardless CVind values, Avalue is a good choice to determine the LVprofile when the CVind is >10%, if the CVind is <10%, Bvalue will be the better option to determine the LVprofile.
Sergio Maroto‐Izquierdo, Kazunori Nosaka, Anthony J. Blazevich, Javier González‐Gallego, and José A. Paz
Wiley
PURPOSE
We investigated the effects of three different unilateral isoinertial resistance training protocols with eccentric-overload on changes in lean mass and muscle function of trained (TL) and contralateral non-trained (NTL) legs.
METHODS
Physically-active university students were randomly assigned to one of three training groups or a control group (n=10/group). Participants in the training groups performed dominant-leg isoinertial squat training twice a week for 6 weeks (4 sets of 7 repetitions) using either an electric-motor device with an eccentric phase velocity of 100% (EM100) or 150% (EM150) of concentric phase velocity or a conventional flywheel device (FW) with the same relative inertial load. Changes in thigh lean mass, unilateral leg-press one-repetition maximum (1-RM), muscle power at 40-80% 1-RM, and unilateral vertical jump height before and after training were compared between the groups and between TL and NTL.
RESULTS
No changes in any variable were found for the control group. In TL, all training groups showed similar increases (P<0.05) in 1-RM strength (22.4-30.2%), lean tissue mass (2.5-5.8%), muscle power (8.8-21.7%) and vertical jump height (9.1-32.9%). In NTL, 1-RM strength increased 22.0-27.8% without significant differences between groups, however increases in lean mass (P<0.001) were observed for EM150 (3.5%) and FW (3.8%) only. Unilateral vertical jump height (6.0-32.9%) and muscle power (6.8-17.5%) also increased in NTL without significant differences between training groups.
CONCLUSION
The three eccentric-overload resistance training modalities produced similar neuromuscular changes in both the trained and non-trained legs, suggesting that strong cross-education effects were induced by the eccentric-overload training.
Juan Vicente-Mampel, Iker J. Bautista, Fernando Martín, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Bas Van Hooren, and Luis Baraja-Vegas
Informa UK Limited
One of the main benefits of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) is that it can be performed without the need of any extra material. However, numerous technical execution variables such as the ankle and pelvis position can influence the performance. The primary aims of this study were to investigate the effects of ankle position (i.e., plantar or dorsal flexion) on Nordic Hamstring Break Point (NHBP), repetition time and heel contact force. A secondary aim was to investigate differences in biceps femoris long head and semitendinosus muscle activation. Male professional field hockey players (n = 12) volunteered for the study. Paired t-tests were used to analyse the effect of ankle position on muscle NHBP, eccentric peak torque and repetition time. Ankle dorsal flexion resulted in a higher NHBP (p = 0.002, effect size [ES] = 1.48 [0.57 to 2.38]), repetition time (p = 0.004, ES = 0.98 [0.24 to 1.72]) and both absolute and relative heel contact force (p = 0.028, ES = 0.67 [0.01 to 1.34], p = 0.017, ES = 0.76 [0.07 to 1.44], respectively) compared to plantar flexion. Muscle activation was not significant different. This study showed a higher NHBP, absolute and relative heel contact force and repetition time with a dorsal flexed ankle vs. a plantar flexed ankle in the NHE, without changes in hamstrings muscle activation.
Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Jeffrey M. McBride, Nacho Gonzalez-Diez, David García-López, Javier González-Gallego, and José Antonio de Paz
Informa UK Limited
Purpose: The mechanical properties of resistance-training machines are a variable that may help to optimize sports performance and injury prevention protocols. The purpose of this study was to examine two non-gravity-dependent training modalities on muscle structure and function. Methods: Eighteen professional handball players were randomly divided into two experimental groups: 1) iso-inertial flywheel training (FW) and 2) pneumatic resistance training (PN). Participants in both groups completed twelve training sessions in six weeks consisting of three movements (lateral raise, internal and external rotation). Four sets of seven repetitions for each movement were performed during each session. Before and after training subscapularis and deltoid (anterior, middle, posterior) muscle thickness was measured. Isokinetic torque and power during internal and external rotation at 60, 180, and 240 deg·s-1 was measured as well. Throwing speed was assessed before and after training while both sitting and standing situations. Results: Both groups showed similar significant increases in throwing speed and internal and external rotation peak torque, average and peak power at all angular velocities. Anterior and middle deltoid muscle thickness changes were greater after training in FW (20 and 22%) in comparison to PN (14 and 7%, respectively). Conclusions: In summary, both flywheel and pneumatic training resulted in similar increases in shoulder strength and power and throwing speed. However, flywheel training appeared to possibly result in a slightly greater level of muscle hypertrophy of the anterior and middle deltoid. Non-gravity dependent training appears to induce changes that would be beneficial to sports performance and perhaps injury prevention.
Salvador Vargas-Molina, Ulises Salgado-Ramírez, Iván Chulvi-Medrano, Leandro Carbone, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, and Javier Benítez-Porres
Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Purpose This study aimed to compare the post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) induced by isometric and isotonic exercise on vertical jump performance. Methods 18 healthy trained men (25.8±2.7 years; 78.4±8.2 kg; 175.7±6.1 cm; 25.4±1.8 BMI; 126.72±10.8 kg squat 1-RM) volunteered for this study. They randomly performed two different PAPE protocols: Isotonic squats (ISOTS), which consisted of 2 sets of 3 repetitions at 75% of one-maximum repetition (1-RM); and isometric squats (ISOMS), which consisted of 2 sets of 4 seconds of submaximal (75% of 1-RM) isometric contraction at 90°-knee flexion. Countermovement jump (CMJ) height was tested at baseline and 4 minutes after each conditioning set. Results CMJ height significantly increased after set 1 in both PAPE protocols (ISOMS: p <0.001; ES = 0.34; ISOTS: p <0.001; ES = 0.24), with respect to the baseline jump. However, after set 2 no significant changes in CMJ height were observed for any protocol (ISOMS: p = 0.162; ES = 0.11; ISOTS: p = 0.976; ES = 0.06). No significant differences (p>0.05) were found between both isometric and isotonic exercise conditions. Conclusions Despite both protocols showed similar PAPE effects on CMJ height after set 1, none of the protocols demonstrated greater efficacy in increasing subsequent performance in healthy trained men.
Marco Beato, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, José L. Hernández-Davó, and Javier Raya-González
Frontiers Media SA
Strength training has a key role for performance and injury prevention purposes in team sports (Suchomel et al., 2016; Beato et al., 2021). Resistance training using isotonic exercises is the most popular methodology, however, this training method is concentric dominant, while the eccentric phase is generally underloaded. Because of the importance of eccentric contractions, one of the most commonly used methods in team sports to stimulate such a contraction is flywheel exercise (Maroto-Izquierdo et al., 2017b; Suchomel et al., 2019a; Beato and Dello Iacono, 2020). By means of a flywheel-rotating device, this training method allows for significantly increased eccentric force demands compared to traditional resistance training (Tesch et al., 2017; Beato and Dello Iacono, 2020). Further, when performing flywheel training with high inertial loads and following some instructions (e.g., to delay the braking action to the last third of the eccentric phase), greater eccentric than concentric force production can be achieved, which is known as eccentric overload (Norrbrand et al., 2010; Martinez-Aranda and Fernandez-Gonzalo, 2017; Piqueras-Sanchiz et al., 2020). This overloaded eccentric action has been suggested to have a major impact on acute responses and chronic adaptations and to be a key characteristic of flywheel training (de Hoyo et al., 2015; Beato et al., 2020; de Keijzer et al., 2020). Although the implementation of flywheel training in sports is supported by the scientific evidence (discussed in the following sections), limited information is currently available about its periodization. Therefore, the aim of this article is to provide methodological bases for the periodization in team sports to practitioners. This paper is structured into four sections: (1) Rationale and benefits of flywheel exercise; (2) Strength training periodization in team sports; (3) Flywheel training periodization in team sports; and (4) Limitations and future directions of flywheel training periodization.
Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Javier Raya-González, José L. Hernández-Davó, and Marco Beato
Frontiers Media SA
Matthew J. Handford, Fernando Martín Rivera, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, and Jonathan D. Hughes
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) can be combined with lower body power-based movements to acutely enhance them, however, currently there are limited recommendations for this training method. AEL can enhance force and power metrics during its utilization with lower body power-based exercises. When employing AEL, exercises should consist of jump squats and countermovement jumps with loading methods consisting of weight releasors or dumbbell hand release. Elastic bands can be utilized, however, more research is needed in this area. External loads ranging from 10 – 30% of body mass can be utilized. Future research needs to investigate increased eccentric and concentric loads when employing AEL with power-based movements.
Marco Beato, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Anthony N. Turner, and Chris Bishop
Human Kinetics
Due to the negative effects that injuries have on performance, club finances, and long-term player health (permanent disability after a severe injury), prevention strategies are an essential part of both sports medicine and performance. Purpose: To summarize the current evidence regarding strength training for injury prevention in soccer and to inform its evidence-based implementation in research and applied settings. Conclusions: The contemporary literature suggests that strength training, proposed as traditional resistance, eccentric, and flywheel training, may be a valid method to reduce injury risk in soccer players. Training strategies involving multiple components (eg, a combination of strength, balance, plyometrics) that include strength exercises are effective at reducing noncontact injuries in female soccer players. In addition, the body of research currently published supports the use of eccentric training in sports, which offers unique physiological responses compared with other resistance exercise modalities. It seems that the Nordic hamstring exercise, in particular, is a viable option for the reduction of hamstring injuries in soccer players. Moreover, flywheel training has specific training peculiarities and advantages that are related to the combination of both concentric and eccentric contraction, which may play an important role in injury prevention. It is the authors’ opinion that strength and conditioning coaches should integrate the strength training methods proposed here in their weekly training routine to reduce the likelihood of injuries in their players; however, further research is needed to verify the advantages and disadvantages of these training methods to injury prevention using specific cohorts of soccer players.
Hashish R. Magdi, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, and José Antonio de Paz
MDPI AG
Background and Objectives: To investigate the effects of unilateral accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) on changes in lean mass and function of leg trained (TL) and ipsilateral non-trained arm (NTA) in young men and women. Materials and Methods: In a prospective trial, 69 Physically active university students (20.2 ± 2.2 years) were randomly placed into a training group (n = 46; 27 men, 19 women) or a control group without training (n = 23; 13 men, 10 women). Participants in the training group performed unilateral AEL in the leg press exercise of the dominant leg twice a week for 10 weeks. An electric motor device-generated isotonic resistance at different intensities for both concentric (30% of 1-RM) and eccentric contractions (105% of 1-RM). Changes in thigh and arm lean tissue mass, unilateral leg press and unilateral elbow flexion maximal concentric (1-RM) and isometric strength (MVIC), and unilateral muscle power at 40, 60, and 80% 1-RM for both leg press and elbow flexion exercises before and after intervention were compared between groups, between sexes and between TL and NTA. Results: Both men and women in the training group showed increases (p < 0.05) in lean tissue mass, 1-RM, MVIC, and muscle power for TL. In NTA, 1-RM, MVIC, and muscle power increased without significant differences between sexes, but neither in men nor women changes in lean tissue mass were observed. In addition, men showed greater changes in TL, but changes in NTA were similar between sexes. No gains in any variable were found for the control group. Conclusions: AEL protocol produced similar neuromuscular changes in TL and ipsilateral NTA, which suggests that strong ipsilateral lower-to-upper limb cross-transfer effects were induced by the eccentric-overload training. However, early ipsilateral increases in muscle force and power were not associated with lean mass gains. Both men and women experienced similar changes in NTA; however, men showed greater changes in TL.
David García-López, Sergio Maroto-Izquierdo, Raúl Zarzuela, Esperanza Martín-santana, Sandra Antón, and Silvia Sedano
Informa UK Limited
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the influence of unknown additional eccentric loading on bench-press kinematics (peak velocity, peak acceleration and accelerative percentage of the concentric phase) and muscle activation (pectoralis major and anterior deltoid) in professional rugby and handball players. Seventeen professional athletes were randomly assigned to complete three separate bench-press repetitions with different AEL schemes (100/40%, 100/60% and 100/80% of 1RM eccentric/concentric loading, respectively) under two conditions: known- and unknown-concentric load (KL and UL, respectively). Results indicate that the lack of knowledge regarding the additional eccentric load induced a significant increase in peak acceleration and agonist-muscles electromyographic activity, with no changes regarding peak velocity or accelerative percentage during the concentric phase. These results support the use of unknown loads as a practical strategy in eliciting rapid muscle activation and force production, which is critical in many sports, such as handball or rugby.
GRANT DETAILS
FPU014/05732
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
Director of research area at Proporción A · Applied Sports Science Center (Valladolid, Spain)