Exercise Research Reviews
Research within the physical activity, health and exercise science fields
Fitness Australia and the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living (ISEAL) at Victoria University are working together to provide monthly research updates about the current research within the physical activity, health and exercise science fields.
Where do these articles come from?
We will only describe studies that have gone through an academic peer review process and are published within scientific journals. This means that academic experts have reviewed and judged the research to be scientifically sound.
A good way to determine the quality of research is to look at a journal’s impact factor (IF). An IF is a measure reflecting the average number of times papers from this journal have been cited in other research papers. The higher the IF, the better quality the journal. Journals in the area of physical activity, health and exercise science fields generally range from, IF =1-8. Click here or here for other descriptions of IFs.
What will be covered?
Each month we’ll provide reviews of studies from a wide range of modes and training methods, such as:
- moderate-intensity aerobic
- high/vigorous-intensity anaerobic
- resistance/strength
- balance/coordination and
- flexibility
Glossary of Terms
When possible we will use plain language. However, sometimes technical terms may arise. Therefore, a glossary of terms has been provided which can be used to understand the specific language used in physical activity and exercise research.
How will it be useful to me?
The aim is to provide a summary of research findings that may be useful in delivering evidence-based training. We’ll complete each review with a practical example of how the findings may related to your clients and/or training.
Don’t believe the hype…
When reading these reviews it’s important to keep an open mind. Just because something has been reviewed by academia, it doesn’t automatically mean that you should incorporate this into your training program. It’s up to you to apply professional judgement and decide whether or not such research is applicable to your training methods or clients programs.
Abdominal fat reduction in obese adolescents: the effects of exercise training
24-Sep-2015A recent U.S-based study showed that just under 20% of children and adolescents aged 2 to 18 years were classified as obese (1). That same study showed that between 2001-10 childhood obesity levels have been steadily increasing.
Muscle wasting and mental health outcomes – a review of the evidence
21-Sep-2015As we age our muscles become smaller and weaker, a condition known as sarcopenia. Research has shown that sarcopenia leads to an increased risk of poor functional status (i.e. a limited ability to perform activities of daily living) and poor musculoskeletal/cardiometabolic health.
Will high-intensity interval exercise training be a HIT for everyone?
21-Sep-2015Studies have shown that there are considerable health benefits associated with HIT participation, such as the prevention and treatment of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The effects of Pilates on balance levels among older adults – what’s the evidence?
21-Sep-2015In addition to regular aerobic and strength training, some leading public health authorities, such as the American College of Sports Medicine, recommend adults to do exercises to improve neuromotor fitness (e.g. balance, agility, and coordination).
Active heart attack survivors beat the blues
21-Sep-2015Each year around 54,000 Australians suffer a heart attack (1). Depending upon the severity and if detected early, current day advances in the treatment and management mean that survival from a heart attack maybe expected (1).
The hype about HIIT: high intensity interval training
14-Sep-2015Title: High-intensity interval exercise induces 24-h energy expenditure similar to traditional endurance exercise despite reduced time commitm...
Yoga is good for health – how many are doing it? UK Study
11-Sep-2015Title: Yoga practice in England 1997-2008: prevalence, temporal trends, and correlates of participationAuthors: Ding, D & Stamatakis, EJournal:...
Yoga and stress relief – is it all in the mind?
Title: Effect of 12 weeks of yoga training on the somatization, psychological symptoms, and stress-related biomarkers of healthy womenAuthors:...
Vigorous-intensity exercise and appetite suppression in obese adolescents
Title: Obese but not lean adolescents spontaneously decrease energy intake after intensive exerciseAuthors: D. Thivel, L. Metz, A. Julien, B. Morio...
Getting some balance into your training
03-Aug-2015Title: Changes in muscle activation following balance and technique training and a season of Australian footballAuthors: Donnelly, C.J. E...