[Purpose] The effects of using functional insoles with a structure supporting the cuboid bone in the sole on body weight and body composition were evaluated in healthy adults. [Participants and Methods] Thirty-six healthy adults used functional insoles for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes measured were body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and body fat mass. Secondary outcomes measured were leg muscle mass, waist circumference, and hip circumference. [Results] Twelve weeks of functional insole use resulted in statistically significant reductions in all primary endpoints (body weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and body fat mass). Among secondary endpoints, a significant increase in lower limb muscle mass was observed, along with significant reductions in other parameters. [Conclusion] The functional insoles evaluated in this study reduced body weight and body fat and had a morphological improvement effect on healthy adults.

[Purpose] To examine the effects of two different forced breathing patterns, thoracic and abdominal breathing, on ventilatory efficiency indices and their associations with individual dominance in breathing pattern. [Participants and Methods] We assessed 30 healthy adult men for tidal volume (VT), total respiratory time (Ttot), and oxygen uptake (VO₂), and compared these indices between thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns. We further divided participants into thoracic- and abdominal-dominant groups, and compared the dominant and non-dominant breathing patterns. [Results] During thoracic breathing, VT and Ttot were higher. In the thoracic-dominant group, VT and Ttot were higher under the same breathing pattern, whereas no differences were observed in the abdominal-dominant group. [Conclusion] Ventilatory characteristics during forced breathing may be influenced by breathing pattern and individual dominance, highlighting the importance of considering individual characteristics in interventions.

[Purpose] To clarify the proportion and characteristics of day care rehabilitation service users whose muscle mass may be overestimated. [Participants and Methods] Participants were 206 older adults (102 men and 104 women) using day care rehabilitation services in northern Tochigi Prefecture. With individuals meeting the criterion of “edema without a decrease in intracellular water (ICW)” defined as having potentially overestimated muscle mass, we calculated the proportion of such individuals, and examined associations with complications and effects on physical function. [Results] The proportion of participants with potentially overestimated muscle mass was 18.9% (11.8% in men and 26.0% in women). No significant associations with complications were observed in either sex. However, those with potentially overestimated muscle mass had a significantly higher appendicular skeletal muscle index in both sexes and significantly lower handgrip strength in men. [Conclusion] Older adults using day care rehabilitation services require muscle mass assessment that accounts for body water.