Sports

14 pages, 1401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Characteristics of the Brazil Mood Scale among Youth and Elite Athletes Using Two Response Time Frames

by Izabel Cristina Provenza de Miranda Rohlfs, Franco Noce, Tim J. Gabbett, Carolina Wilke, Marcelo Vido, Victoria R. Terry and Peter C. Terry

Sports 2023, 11(12), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120244 - 14 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2208

Abstract

Regular assessment of the mood construct as an indicator of psychological wellbeing is used in Brazil to screen athletes for risk of mental health issues. The present study tested the psychometric characteristics of the Brazil Mood Scale (BRAMS) using both “right now” and [...] Read more.

Regular assessment of the mood construct as an indicator of psychological wellbeing is used in Brazil to screen athletes for risk of mental health issues. The present study tested the psychometric characteristics of the Brazil Mood Scale (BRAMS) using both “right now” and “past week” response time frames and investigated between-group differences in mood based on athletes’ sex, age, and social vulnerability. Participants were 898 athletes (511 male, 387 female, age range: 12–44 years) from eight sports. The factorial validity of the BRAMS was supported using both response time frames independently and in a multi-sample analysis. Subscale reliability was supported for both time frames. Fatigue, depression, and tension scores were higher using the “past week” time frame than the “right now” time frame. Males reported higher vigor scores than females, and younger participants (<18 years) reported lower scores for anger and depression than older participants (18+ years). No significant differences in mood (p > 0.05) were found between participants identified as socially vulnerable and those who were not socially vulnerable. Findings supported the psychometric integrity of the BRAMS and its use as a screening measure for psychological wellbeing among youth and elite athletes in Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Sports: Feature Papers in the Interdisciplinary Papers of Sport Sciences and Public Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association of Serum Calprotectin with Fitness Indicators and Biochemical Markers in High-Level Athletes: A Continuous Dynamic Monitoring during One Competitive Season

by Frane Bukvić, Alan Ivković, Helena Čičak, Lora Dukić, Ana-Maria Šimundić, Domagoj Marijančević and Daria Pašalić

Sports 2023, 11(12), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120243 - 14 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1796

Abstract

The objective was to determine the associations between several biochemical indicators and the dynamics of concentration change across four physical fitness phases over the period of a competitive season. Furthermore, associations between serum calprotectin and biomarkers of inflammation or muscle injury and physical [...] Read more.

The objective was to determine the associations between several biochemical indicators and the dynamics of concentration change across four physical fitness phases over the period of a competitive season. Furthermore, associations between serum calprotectin and biomarkers of inflammation or muscle injury and physical indicators were examined. Subjects and methods: Twenty professional male water polo players (median age: 28 (22–42)) were included in this study. Serum creatine kinase activity was determined by the automated photometric UV method. The concentrations of calprotectin, C-reactive protein, and myoglobin were measured using an automated immunoturbidimetric method, while an automated immunochemistry method was employed for interleukin-6, troponin I, and cortisol determination. Tests of repeated strength, maximal strength, and static strength were used to evaluate physical activity. Results: Serum calprotectin concentrations expressed in median and IQR were significantly different: T1: 2.92 g/mL (2.47; 3.86); T2: 2.35 g/mL (1.26; 2.87); T3: 2.27 g/mL (1.60; 3.27); and T4: 1.47 g/mL (1.04; 2.85) (p = 0.004). Cortisol concentration and CK activity showed significant changes among phases (p = 0.049 and p = 0.014, respectively). Each physical activity examined showed a significant seasonal decrease (all p values were 0.001). Calprotectin serum concentration and indicators of muscular injury, inflammation, and physical activity were found to be correlated during particular stages of the seasonal examination. Conclusions: Calprotectin values determined throughout one competitive season decreased as training intensity among water polo players increased. Serum calprotectin concentrations and indicators were related to biochemical markers of inflammation and muscle damage. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Responses of Youth Elite Players to a Football Match in Terms of Blood Markers

by André Montanholi Fornaziero, Luiz Fernando Novack, Vitor Bertoli Nascimento and Raul Osiecki

Sports 2023, 11(12), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120242 - 11 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2403

Abstract

The current study verified the acute responses of participants to a football match in terms of blood markers. Sixteen elite U-18 male football players were divided into two groups: experimental (EG, n = 10), who played a friendly football match; and control (CG), [...] Read more.

The current study verified the acute responses of participants to a football match in terms of blood markers. Sixteen elite U-18 male football players were divided into two groups: experimental (EG, n = 10), who played a friendly football match; and control (CG), who were not exposed to any physical exertion. Intravenous blood samples were collected from both groups at baseline, pre-match, half-time, and post-match. The blood analysis consisted of four groups: immunological (leukocytes, platelets, and cortisol), muscle damage (creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase), metabolic (lactate, glucose, erythrocytes, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and urea), and electrolytic (sodium, calcium, and potassium). Edwards’ training impulse demonstrated that the first half was more demanding than the second half (p = 0.020). Significant changes between time points and groups were observed for leukocytes (pre-match: 6920 ± 1949; post-match: 13,890 ± 3292; p ≤ 0.05) and cortisol (pre-match: 10.78 ± 3.63; post-match: 19.15 ± 7.40; p ≤ 0.05). CK (pre-match: 516.50 ± 248.38; post-match: 713.70 ± 308.20; p ≤ 0.05) and LDH (pre-match: 348.80 ± 36.49; post-match: 414.80 ± 26.55; p ≤ 0.05) increased significantly across the time points for the EG, with no difference between the groups, however. Raised lactate (pre-match: 1.05 ± 0.32; post-match: 3.24 ± 1.60; p ≤ 0.05) and glucose (pre-match: 72.54 ± 9.76; post-match: 101.42 ± 19.87; p ≤ 0.05) differences between the groups at half-time were also observed. These current findings provide helpful information to better understand football match demands regarding physiological effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physical Fitness Profile in Soccer Players)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 7413 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Influence of General and Local Muscle Fatigue on Kinematics and Plantar Pressure Distribution during Running: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Walaaeldin Aly Hazzaa, Laura Hottenrott, Manar Ahmed Kamal and Klaus Mattes

Sports 2023, 11(12), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120241 - 6 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2858

Abstract

Fatigue has the potential to alter how impact forces are absorbed during running, heightening the risk of injury. Conflicting findings exist regarding alterations in both kinematics and plantar pressure. Thus, this systematic review and subsequent meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the impact of [...] Read more.

Fatigue has the potential to alter how impact forces are absorbed during running, heightening the risk of injury. Conflicting findings exist regarding alterations in both kinematics and plantar pressure. Thus, this systematic review and subsequent meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the impact of general and localized muscle fatigue on kinematics and plantar pressure distribution during running. Initial searches were executed on 30 November 2021 and updated on 29 April 2023, encompassing PubMed, The Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science without imposing any restrictions on publication dates or employing additional filters. Our PECOS criteria included cross-sectional studies on healthy adults during their treadmill running to mainly evaluate local muscle fatigue, plantar pressure distribution, biomechanics of running (kinematics, kinetics, and EMG results), and temporospatial parameters. The literature search identified 6626 records, with 4626 studies removed for titles and abstract screening. Two hundred and one articles were selected for full-text screening, and 20 studies were included in qualitative data synthesis. The pooled analysis showed a non-significant decrease in maximum pressure under the right forefoot’s metatarsus, which was more than the left rearfoot after local muscle fatigue at a velocity of 15 km/h (p-values = 0.48 and 0.62). The results were homogeneous and showed that local muscle fatigue did not significantly affect the right forefoot’s stride frequency and length (p-values = 0.75 and 0.38). Strength training for the foot muscles, mainly focusing on the dorsiflexors, is recommended to prevent running-related injuries. Utilizing a standardized knee and ankle joint muscle fatigue assessment protocol is advised. Future experiments should focus on various shoes for running and varying foot strike patterns for injury prevention. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Training Sets Sequence on Swimming Performance, Training Load and Physiological Responses

by Ioannis S. Nikitakis, Gregory C. Bogdanis, Giorgos P. Paradisis and Argyris G. Toubekis

Sports 2023, 11(12), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120240 - 4 Dec 2023

Viewed by 2131

Abstract

The study examined the effect of set sequence on performance and physiological responses in a training session and in each set separately. Twelve male swimmers performed four sessions in a randomized order, including a combination of two training sets: (i) set A-set C, [...] Read more.

The study examined the effect of set sequence on performance and physiological responses in a training session and in each set separately. Twelve male swimmers performed four sessions in a randomized order, including a combination of two training sets: (i) set A-set C, (ii) set C-set A, (iii) set B-set C, (iv) set C-set B. Set A consisted of 8 × 200 m at a speed corresponding to lactate threshold (30 s recovery), set B included 8 × 100 m at the maximal aerobic speed (30 s recovery), set C included 8 × 50 m sprints at 95% of the maximum 50 m speed (30 s recovery). Speed, blood lactate, pH, base excess, bicarbonate and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured. Speed in each set was similar between sessions irrespective of set sequence (p > 0.05). Physiological responses during sets A and C were similar in all sessions (p > 0.05). In set B, when applied after set C, the metabolic response increased, and HRV decreased (p < 0.05). Overall, session biochemical disturbance was higher when set C was applied before sets A and B (p < 0.05). The magnitude of metabolic and HRV responses in a set conducted at maximal aerobic speed, but not at lactate threshold intensity, is increased when applied after sprint intervals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Performance of Water Based Exercise and Sports)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1991 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Jump Neuromuscular Performance Characteristics Determining On-Court Contribution in Male and Female NCAA Division 1 Basketball Players

by Nicolas M. Philipp, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Ramsey M. Nijem, Stryder D. Blackburn and Andrew C. Fry

Sports 2023, 11(12), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120239 - 4 Dec 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3167

Abstract

While various quantifiable physical attributes have been found to contribute to athletes’ performance, there is a lack of scientific literature focused on examining how they relate to success during competition performance. The aim of this study was to investigate different countermovement jump (CMJ)-derived [...] Read more.

While various quantifiable physical attributes have been found to contribute to athletes’ performance, there is a lack of scientific literature focused on examining how they relate to success during competition performance. The aim of this study was to investigate different countermovement jump (CMJ)-derived force–time characteristics and their utility in distinguishing high from low performers within a measure of on-court contribution (i.e., minutes per game played). Twenty-nine collegiate athletes (n = 15 males and n = 14 females) volunteered to participate in this investigation and performed CMJs on dual force plates sampling at 1000 Hz, weekly over the course of their basketball season. The athletes’ average of their three best test-days across the season was used for further analysis. To identify their on-court contribution, athletes were divided into groups with high and low minutes per game, based on a median-split analysis. The findings suggest that at the overall group level (i.e., both genders), the modified reactive strength index (mRSI) and braking rate of force development (RFD) revealed the greatest between-group magnitudes of difference, with athletes playing more minutes per game showing greater performance. At the team-specific level, the braking RFD, average braking velocity, and mRSI were shown to be the greatest differentiators between groups for the men’s team. The women’s high-minutes group displayed greater magnitudes of mRSI and jump height. By identifying the neuromuscular qualities seen in top performers within their respective populations, the attributed physical performance underpinning these qualities may be identified, providing practitioners with insights into physical performance qualities and training methodologies that have the potential to influence basketball performance. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Oxygen Consumption Response to Fast Start High-Intensity Intermittent Exercise

by Payton Miller, Noah Perez and John W. Farrell III

Sports 2023, 11(12), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120238 - 1 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2079

Abstract

The current investigation compared the acute oxygen consumption (VO₂) response of two high-intensity interval exercises (HIIE), fast start (FSHIIE), and steady power (SPHIIE), which matched w prime (W’) depletion. Eight cyclists completed an incremental max test and a three-minute all-out test [...] Read more.

The current investigation compared the acute oxygen consumption (VO₂) response of two high-intensity interval exercises (HIIE), fast start (FSHIIE), and steady power (SPHIIE), which matched w prime (W’) depletion. Eight cyclists completed an incremental max test and a three-minute all-out test (3MT) to determine maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max), critical power (CP), and W’. HIIE sessions consisted of 3 X 4 min intervals interspersed by 3 min of active recovery, with W’ depleted by 60% (W’target) within each working interval. SPHIIE depleted the W’target consistently throughout the 3 min intervals, while FSHIIE depleted the W’target by 50% within the first minute, with the remaining 50% depleted evenly across the remainder of the interval. The paired samples t-test revealed no differences in the percentage of training time spent above 90% of VO_2max (PT ≥ 90% VO_2max) between SPHIIE and FSHIIE with an average of 25.20% and 26.07%, respectively. Pairwise comparisons indicated a difference between minute 1 peak VO₂, minute 2, and minute 3, while no differences were present between minutes 2 and 3. The results suggest that when HIIE formats are matched based on W’ expenditure, there are no differences in PT ≥ 90% VO_2max or peak VO₂ during each interval. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimising Interval Training Prescription (Volume II))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Not All Injuries Are the Same: Different Patterns in Sports Injuries and Their Psychosocial Correlates

by Tabea Werner, Alena Michel-Kröhler, Stefan Berti and Michèle Wessa

Sports 2023, 11(12), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120237 - 1 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2868

Abstract

Sports injuries are ubiquitous and can have far-reaching consequences for athletes (e.g., health, performance). Previous studies have examined various psychosocial influencing factors (e.g., stress), but have mostly focused on only one or two injury characteristics (e.g., frequency), neglecting the broader injury pattern. Thus, [...] Read more.

Sports injuries are ubiquitous and can have far-reaching consequences for athletes (e.g., health, performance). Previous studies have examined various psychosocial influencing factors (e.g., stress), but have mostly focused on only one or two injury characteristics (e.g., frequency), neglecting the broader injury pattern. Thus, the present study aimed to obtain a more differentiated picture of potentially different injury patterns and related profiles of psychosocial factors. We investigated a sample of 213 athletes from a cross-sectional online study. Current injury status, frequency, severity, chronicity, medical treatment, and rehabilitation measures were subjected to cluster analysis indicating a 3-cluster solution with predominantly chronically injured athletes (n = 54), athletes not seeking treatment (n = 62), and athletes utilizing medical treatment and rehabilitation (n = 97). Building on the Model of Stress and Athletic Injury, we subsequently conducted three multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs) to examine whether the obtained clusters differed in terms of personality factors (e.g., athletic identity), history of stressors (e.g., life events), and coping resources (e.g., self-compassion). We observed significant differences in all three categories of psychosocial variables implying different intervention possibilities for different injury patterns in the future. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Significance of Maximal Squat Strength for Neuromuscular Knee Control in Elite Handball Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Sofia Ryman Augustsson and Erik Gannby

Sports 2023, 11(12), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120236 - 27 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3613

Abstract

Both weak muscle strength and impaired neuromuscular control has previous been suggested as risk factors for future traumatic knee injury. However, data on the relationship between these two factors are scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship and [...] Read more.

Both weak muscle strength and impaired neuromuscular control has previous been suggested as risk factors for future traumatic knee injury. However, data on the relationship between these two factors are scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship and influence of the one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell squat strength on dynamic knee valgus in elite female and male handball players. In this cross-sectional study 22 elite handball players (7 females) were included. A unilateral drop jump (VDJ) test was used for the assessment of frontal plane dynamic knee valgus. Players also performed a one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell squat test, expressed relative to bodyweight (r1RM), to assess maximal strength, which were dichotomized to analyze ‘weak’ versus ‘strong’ players according to median. Correlations were noted between r1RM in squat and knee valgus angle for both the non-dominant (r = −0.54; p = 0.009) and dominant leg (r = −0.46, p = 0.03). The odds of knee valgus were eight times higher, for the dominant leg, in the weak group compared to the strong group (p = 0.03) and 27 times higher, for the non-dominant leg (p = 0.002). The outcome of the present study suggests that maximum squat strength plays an important role when it comes to neuromuscular control of the knee, and that weak handball players are at higher risk of knee valgus compared to strong players during jumping activity. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1751 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of VO₂max Estimations for Maximal and Submaximal Exercise Tests in Apparently Healthy Adults

by Marc-Olivier Dugas, Pénélope Paradis-Deschênes, Laurie Simard, Tommy Chevrette, Patricia Blackburn and Martin Lavallière

Sports 2023, 11(12), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120235 - 27 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5586

Abstract

Due to limited accessibility, direct measurement of VO₂max is rarely performed in clinical settings or sports centers. As a result, regression equations have been developed and are currently used during exercise tests to provide an indirect estimation. The American College of [...] Read more.

Due to limited accessibility, direct measurement of VO₂max is rarely performed in clinical settings or sports centers. As a result, regression equations have been developed and are currently used during exercise tests to provide an indirect estimation. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has recommended a regression equation for running to provide an indirect estimation of VO₂. However, significant differences have been observed between these estimations and directly measured VO₂max. Additionally, since submaximal assessments may be more convenient for both athletes and sedentary/diseased individuals, they were included in the analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of VO₂max estimations provided using the ACSM running equation when used during both maximal and submaximal exercise tests among adult runners. A total of 99 apparently healthy and active adults (age: 39.9 ± 12.2 years; VO₂max: 47.4 ± 6.0 mL O₂/kg∙min⁻¹) participated in this study. Two types of submaximal estimations were performed to predict VO₂max: one based on age-predicted maximal heart rate (HRmax) (ACSM_submax,Fox), and the second using the actual HRmax measured during the exercise test (ACSM_{submax,measured}). The measured VO₂max was compared to these estimations obtained from a single exercise test. Both maximal and submaximal exercise tests significantly overestimated VO₂max (ACSM_max: +9.8, p < 0.001; ACSM_submax,Fox: +3.4, p < 0.001; ACSM_{submax,measured}: +3.8 mL O₂/kg∙min⁻¹, p < 0.001). However, the submaximal estimations were closer to the measured VO₂max (p < 0.001). This analysis demonstrated that the included methods overestimated the true VO₂max. Nonetheless, the submaximal exercise tests provided a more accurate prediction of VO₂max compared to the maximal exercise tests when using the ACSM running equation. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Greek Translation of the Brunel Mood Scale: Initial Validation among Exercise Participants and Inactive Adults

by Symeon P. Vlachopoulos, Andrew M. Lane and Peter C. Terry

Sports 2023, 11(12), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120234 - 27 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2591

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to provide initial validity evidence of a Greek translation of the 24-item Brunel Mood Scale, referred to as the BRUMS-Greek, a measure of anger, confusion, depression, fatigue, tension, and vigour. Data were collected from 1417 Greek [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to provide initial validity evidence of a Greek translation of the 24-item Brunel Mood Scale, referred to as the BRUMS-Greek, a measure of anger, confusion, depression, fatigue, tension, and vigour. Data were collected from 1417 Greek adult exercise participants and 369 physically inactive adults, totaling 1786 adults (male = 578, female = 1208) aged 18–64 years (M = 34.73 ± 11.81 years). Given the large univariate and multivariate non-normality, a confirmatory factor analyses treating responses as ordered categorical variables was conducted which supported the hypothesised six-correlated factor measurement model. The internal consistency reliability of the BRUMS-Greek subscales was supported via Cronbach alpha coefficients. The construct validity of the scales was supported (a) via correlations in the hypothesised direction with trait positive and negative affect, (b) with more positive and less negative moods reported immediately after participation in a single exercise class compared to pre-exercise mood, and (c) with exercise participants reporting more positive and less negative mood states compared to physically inactive adults. Women reported higher tension and lower vigour scores than men. Tension scores were higher and confusion scores lower among younger participants (≤35 years) than older participants (≥36 years). Participants with obesity reported higher negative mood scores than those who were underweight or normal weight. In sum, the BRUMS-Greek demonstrated acceptable psychometric characteristics, and is proposed to be a suitable measure for use with exercise participants, physically inactive adults, and other Greek populations to explore research questions related to mood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Sports: Feature Papers in the Interdisciplinary Papers of Sport Sciences and Public Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 1469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work, Training and Life Stress in ITU World Olympic Distance Age-Group Championship Triathletes

by Veronica Vleck, Luís Miguel Massuça, Rodrigo de Moraes, João Henrique Falk Neto, Claudio Quagliarotti and Maria Francesca Piacentini

Sports 2023, 11(12), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120233 - 24 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2131

Abstract

We assessed the training, work and Life Stress demands of a mixed gender group of 48 top amateur short-distance triathletes using an online retrospective epidemiological survey and the Life Events Survey for Collegiate Athletes. On superficial inspection, these mainly masters athletes appeared to [...] Read more.

We assessed the training, work and Life Stress demands of a mixed gender group of 48 top amateur short-distance triathletes using an online retrospective epidemiological survey and the Life Events Survey for Collegiate Athletes. On superficial inspection, these mainly masters athletes appeared to undergo all the types of training that are recommended for the aging athlete. However, there were significant scheduling differences between their weekday vs. their weekend training, suggesting that age-groupers’ outside sports commitments may affect their training efficacy. The triathletes claimed to periodize, to obtain feedback on and to modify their training plans when appropriate—and some evidence of this was obtained. Over the year preceding the ITU World Age-Group Championships, they averaged 53%, 33% and 14% of their combined swim, cycle and run training time, respectively, within intensity zones 1, 2 and 3. Although the triathletes specifically stated that their training was focused on preparation for the ITU World Age-Group Championships, the way that they modified their training in the month before the event suggested that this aim was not necessarily achieved. Sports-related stress accounted for most—42.0 ± 26.7%—of their total Life Stress over the preceding year (vs. 12.7 ± 18.6% for Relationship-, 31.3 ± 25.9% for Personal- and 14.0 ± 21.1% for Career-related Stress). It affected most athletes, and was overwhelmingly negative, when it related to failure to attain athletic goal(s), to injury and/or to illness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maximising Triathlon Health and Performance: the State of the Art)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Contrast Water Therapy on Dehydration during Endurance Training Camps in Moderate-Altitude Environments

by Takayuki Inami, Shota Yamaguchi, Takuya Nishioka, Kenta Chida, Kosaku Hoshina, Osamu Ito, Takeshi Hashimoto and Mitsuyoshi Murayama

Sports 2023, 11(12), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120232 - 22 Nov 2023

Viewed by 2013

Abstract

The effects of contrast water therapy (CWT) on dehydration at moderate altitudes during training camps remain unknown. We hypothesized that CWT reduces dehydration resulting from training at moderate altitudes and improves performance, akin to conditions at sea level. A 13-day endurance training camp [...] Read more.

The effects of contrast water therapy (CWT) on dehydration at moderate altitudes during training camps remain unknown. We hypothesized that CWT reduces dehydration resulting from training at moderate altitudes and improves performance, akin to conditions at sea level. A 13-day endurance training camp was held at a moderate altitude of 1100 m and included 22 university athletes, who were divided into two groups (CWT group, n = 12; control (CON) group, n = 10). The sample size was calculated based on an α level of 0.05, power (1 β) of 0.8, and effect size of 0.25 based on two-way ANOVA. Longitudinal changes over 13 days were compared using a two-group comparison model. Additionally, 16 athletes participated in an additional performance verification analysis. Subjective fatigue, body mass, and water content (total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), and intracellular water) were measured using bioimpedance analysis every morning, and the titin N-terminal fragment in urine (UTF) was measured as an index of muscle damage. For performance verification, 10 consecutive jump performances (with the reactive strength index (RSI) as an indicator) were evaluated as neuromuscular function indices. The results indicated that the UTF did not significantly differ between the two groups. Moreover, the ECW/TBW values, indicative of dehydration, on days 4 and 5 in the CWT group were significantly lower than those in the CON group. However, there was no significant difference in RSI between the two groups. Therefore, although CWT reduces dehydration in the early stages of the training camp, it may not affect performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports Medicine: Exercise and Training for Injury Prevention)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessReview

Conceptualisation and Measurement of Social Cohesion within the Sport and Physical Activity Context: A Scoping Review

by Louis Moustakas and Jule Wagner

Sports 2023, 11(12), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11120231 - 22 Nov 2023

Viewed by 3022

Abstract

Sport, physical activity and social cohesion are increasingly linked within the academic literature. Indeed, studies recognise both the importance of social cohesion for promoting physical activity and the potential of sport to support social cohesion. Up until now, however, the ways in which [...] Read more.

Sport, physical activity and social cohesion are increasingly linked within the academic literature. Indeed, studies recognise both the importance of social cohesion for promoting physical activity and the potential of sport to support social cohesion. Up until now, however, the ways in which social cohesion has been defined and measured in the context of sport and physical activity have not been the subject of much academic attention. Through a scoping review of studies measuring social cohesion in the sport and physical activity context, we aim to uncover how social cohesion is defined and measured, thus allowing us to better grasp how the concept is understood and operationalised in this field. As such, full-text inclusion occurred when studies quantitatively measured social cohesion through a questionnaire/survey instrument in connection with sport or physical activity participation or within programmes using sport to foster social cohesion. A total of 40 papers were included in the review, showing broad support for the argument that social cohesion is positively related to sport or physical activity participation. However, the retained texts engage on only a surface level with the concept of social cohesion, with around half not defining the term and the associated measurement tools using only a fraction of the dimensions typically associated with social cohesion. To conclude, we propose future directions to enhance conceptual engagement with and measurement of social cohesion. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sports, Volume 11, Issue 12 (December 2023) – 14 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI