Physical fitness was assessed by evaluating cardio-respiratory fitness, strength, and flexibility. The tests were preceded by two consecutive run-in sessions to become familiar with testing devices and protocols.
Cardio-respiratory fitness was assessed by a maximal treadmill exercise test using a Balke protocol and expressed as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), as previously detailed [28 (link)]. Isometric muscle strength was measured by means of a strain gauge tensiometer (Digimax, Mechatronic GmbH, Germany) [36 (link)]. Lower limb muscle strength was assessed by maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) performed at a costumed leg extension machine (Leg press, Easy Line, Technogym), with a 90° angle at the knee and the hip. Upper body muscle strength was assessed by MVCs performed at a shoulder press (Shoulder press/Lat pull, Easy Line, Technogym) along the sagittal plane, with a 90° and 45° angle at the elbow and between the upper arm and the trunk, respectively. For each exercise, three MVC were performed, with 3 min rest interval between contractions. For hip and trunk flexibility assessment, a standard bending test in the standing position was executed [28 (link)]. The test was performed three times and the distance between the finger and the ground was measured at the third attempt.
Cardio-respiratory fitness was assessed by a maximal treadmill exercise test using a Balke protocol and expressed as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), as previously detailed [28 (link)]. Isometric muscle strength was measured by means of a strain gauge tensiometer (Digimax, Mechatronic GmbH, Germany) [36 (link)]. Lower limb muscle strength was assessed by maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) performed at a costumed leg extension machine (Leg press, Easy Line, Technogym), with a 90° angle at the knee and the hip. Upper body muscle strength was assessed by MVCs performed at a shoulder press (Shoulder press/Lat pull, Easy Line, Technogym) along the sagittal plane, with a 90° and 45° angle at the elbow and between the upper arm and the trunk, respectively. For each exercise, three MVC were performed, with 3 min rest interval between contractions. For hip and trunk flexibility assessment, a standard bending test in the standing position was executed [28 (link)]. The test was performed three times and the distance between the finger and the ground was measured at the third attempt.