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Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports
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Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 January 2025 | Viewed by 9438

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Łukasz Rydzik

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Sports Science, University of Physical Education, 31-571 Cracow, Poland
Interests: kickboxing; training effects; training performance; sports physiology; brain activity; brain injury; brain punch
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Tadeusz Ambrozy

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Sports Sciences, University of Physical Education, 31-571 Krakow, Poland
Interests: physical fitness; training; training strain; training control individual sports; martial arts combat sports; performance analysis technical and tactical preparation; trainer control
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Tomasz Palka

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, University of Physical Education, 31-571 Krakow, Poland
Interests: sports physiology; sports biochemistry; different temperatures; hormonal profiles
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We cordially invite you to submit articles for publication in our Applied Sciences Special Issue entitled "Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sport". This is a unique opportunity for researchers and experts in the field of sports to share their latest research and scientific achievements.

Our Special Issue aims to delve into topics related to the analysis of sports performance and the utilization of technology in the realm of sports. We welcome articles that present innovative methods of performance analysis, state-of-the-art measurement tools, and research on the impact of technology on athletes' achievements. Your contributions will help expand scientific knowledge in this field and contribute to the refinement of training strategies and sporting outcomes.

Do not miss this chance to contribute to the advancement of our scientific understanding of sports. We encourage you to submit articles that will undoubtedly enrich our Special Issue with valuable information and scientific research.

Dr. Łukasz Rydzik
Prof. Dr. Tadeusz Ambrozy
Prof. Dr. Tomasz Palka
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • performance analysis
  • sport technology
  • sports analytics
  • data-driven coaching
  • athlete performance
  • sports biomechanics
  • wearable technology
  • video analysis
  • sports science
  • training optimization

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 476 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Coordination Training on Psychomotor Abilities in Adolescent Handball Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Michał Spieszny, Zygmunt Kamys, Krzysztof Kasicki, Wojciech Wąsacz, Tadeusz Ambroży, Jarosław Jaszczur-Nowicki and Łukasz Rydzik
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7974; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177974 - 6 Sep 2024
Viewed by 583
Abstract
Background: Handball requires significant psychomotor skills, especially in young athletes, to enhance performance. Coordination training is crucial but under-researched in this context. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an experimental coordination training program on the psychomotor abilities of [...] Read more.
Background: Handball requires significant psychomotor skills, especially in young athletes, to enhance performance. Coordination training is crucial but under-researched in this context. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an experimental coordination training program on the psychomotor abilities of young handball players. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 27 young handball players. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 15) receiving additional coordination training and a control group (n = 12) following standard training. Psychomotor skills were assessed before, during, and after the intervention by PNTR (Computer Tests of Coordination Abilities) tests. Statistical analysis included the Mann–Whitney U test for between-group differences and the Wilcoxon test for within-group comparisons, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in psychomotor performance, including reaction time and visual–motor coordination, compared to the control group. Specifically, there were statistically significant improvements in simple reaction time, visual–motor coordination, spatial orientation, attention distribution, and perception orientation. Conclusions: Coordination training effectively enhances the psychomotor abilities of young handball players, suggesting that its integration into regular training sessions can optimize performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
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16 pages, 1794 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Energy System Demands and Performance Metrics in Professional Soccer Players: Running vs. Cycling Repeated Sprint Tests
by Erkan Tortu and Gökhan Deliceoglu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6518; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156518 - 26 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1047
Abstract
Background: Repeated sprint ability (RSA) is defined as the ability to recover and maintain maximal effort during repeated sprints, recognised as a crucial performance component in team sports. The exercise mode used to test RSA may influence performance and the contributions of different [...] Read more.
Background: Repeated sprint ability (RSA) is defined as the ability to recover and maintain maximal effort during repeated sprints, recognised as a crucial performance component in team sports. The exercise mode used to test RSA may influence performance and the contributions of different energy systems. The primary aim of this study is to address the critical gap between traditional cycling-based anaerobic tests, such as the Wingate test, and the practical, sport-specific demands of running in field-based team sports. Methods: This study involved 32 professional soccer players (age: 21.2 ± 1.3 years; height: 177.8 ± 4.3 cm; and mass: 71.3 ± 6.4 kg). They performed cycling- and running-based repeated sprint tests, with similar total sprint numbers, durations, and recovery times, on different days. Contributions from adenosine triphosphate-phosphocreatine (ATP-PCr), glycolytic, and oxidative systems were estimated through body weight, oxygen uptake (VO2), blood lactate (BLa), and the fast component of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). The VO2 levels and heart rate (HR) were monitored during the rest (10 min), exercise, and recovery (15 min) phases in a breath-by-breath mode using a portable gas exchange system. BLa was measured before (at rest) and 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 min after the running and cycling tests using a handheld portable analyser. A mono-exponential model estimated the ATP-PCr system contribution, calculated using the fast component of EPOC following the final sprint and the sum of the VO2-time integral during rest intervals. Results: The cycling tests demonstrated significantly higher values for the peak power (PP), mean power (MP), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) (p < 0.05), while the heart rate peak and blood lactate responses were similar across all modalities. The fatigue index was notably higher in the running tests (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the running tests showed greater contributions in both the percentage and absolute terms from the adenosine triphosphate-phosphocreatine (ATP-PCr) system (p < 0.01), total energy demand (p < 0.05), and total energy expenditure (TEE) (p < 0.01). Notably, the running tests resulted in an increased phosphocreatine breakdown (p < 0.05) and rapid phosphocreatine replenishment (p < 0.01). A simple linear regression analysis highlighted a significant determination coefficient between these performance variables and the contributions of the energy systems, affirming the robustness of the results. The correlation heatmaps further illustrated these relationships, with higher correlations for the PP and MP across modalities (0.41), emphasising the moderate association between cycling and running tests in these metrics. Conclusions: This study elucidated the similarities and differences in energy system contributions and performance outcomes between a cycling and a running repeated sprint protocol, with a comparable total sprint time and work–rest ratio. The findings reveal that a running repeated sprint test elicits a higher energy demand and a higher contribution from the PCr energy system compared to cycling. Performance variables were not associated between running and cycling tests, suggesting those tests cannot be used interchangeably. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
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15 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Effects of Short-Rest Interval Time on Resisted Sprint Performance and Sprint Mechanical Variables in Elite Youth Soccer Players
by Daum Jung and Junggi Hong
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5082; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125082 - 11 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1196
Abstract
This study explored the impact of short rest intervals on resisted sprint training in elite youth soccer players, specifically targeting enhanced initial-phase explosive acceleration without altering sprint mechanics. Fifteen U19 soccer players participated in a randomized crossover design trial, executing two sprint conditions: [...] Read more.
This study explored the impact of short rest intervals on resisted sprint training in elite youth soccer players, specifically targeting enhanced initial-phase explosive acceleration without altering sprint mechanics. Fifteen U19 soccer players participated in a randomized crossover design trial, executing two sprint conditions: RST2M (6 sprints of 20 m resisted sprints with 2 min rest intervals) and RST40S (6 sprints of 20 m resisted sprints with 40 s rest intervals), both under a load equivalent to 30% of sprint velocity decrement using a resistance device. To gauge neuromuscular fatigue, countermovement jumps were performed before and after each session, and the fatigue index along with sprint decrement percentage were calculated. Interestingly, the results indicated no significant differences in sprint performance or mechanical variables between RST2M and RST40S, suggesting that the duration of rest intervals did not affect the outcomes. Horizontal resistance appeared to mitigate compensatory patterns typically induced by fatigue in short rest periods, maintaining effective joint movement and hip extensor recruitment necessary for producing horizontal ground forces. These findings propose a novel training strategy that could simultaneously enhance sprint mechanics during initial accelerations and repeated sprint abilities for elite youth soccer players—a methodology not previously employed Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
11 pages, 326 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Situational Variables on Women’s Rink Hockey Match Outcomes
by Jordi Arboix-Alió, Guillem Trabal, Dani Moreno-Galcerán, Bernat Buscà, Adrià Arboix, Vasco Vaz, Hugo Sarmento and Raúl Hileno
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3627; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093627 - 25 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1348
Abstract
The main objective of the present study was to develop a concise predictive model to determine the likelihood of winning in female rink hockey based on various situational variables. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the individual impact of each predictor on match [...] Read more.
The main objective of the present study was to develop a concise predictive model to determine the likelihood of winning in female rink hockey based on various situational variables. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the individual impact of each predictor on match outcomes. The analysis encompassed a dataset of 840 matches during five consecutive seasons (from 2018–2019 to 2022–2023) in the Spanish first division (OkLiga). Employing the comprehensive method of all possible regressions, the most effective predictive logistic model for match outcomes was identified. This entire model featured five categorical predictor variables (match location, team level, opponent level, scoring first, and match status at halftime) and one binary outcome variable (match outcome). Subsequently, the final model, which exhibited a sensitivity and specificity surpassing 80% for a cut-off point of 0.439, emerged. This model was applied to predict winning a match in 18 frequent situations determined from a two-step cluster analysis. Within this predictive framework, match status at halftime emerged as the most influential predictor impacting the match outcome, followed by opponent level, team level, and match location. The implications of our findings extend to rink hockey coaches and practitioners. Recognizing the significant impact of situational variables on match outcomes empowers them to customize game plans and design more specific strategies, thereby enhancing game understanding and elevating the overall performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
18 pages, 1408 KiB  
Article
Improving Agility and Reactive Agility in Basketball Players U14 and U16 by Implementing Fitlight Technology in the Sports Training Process
by Norbert Steff, Dana Badau and Adela Badau
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3597; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093597 - 24 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1385
Abstract
The main aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of the implementation of Fitlight technology in the process of sports training and motor assessment on the improvement in agility and reactive agility of junior basketball players. The age groups studied were [...] Read more.
The main aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of the implementation of Fitlight technology in the process of sports training and motor assessment on the improvement in agility and reactive agility of junior basketball players. The age groups studied were under-14 (U14) and under-16 (U16). This study included 70 male basketball athletes, structured in two experimental groups: U14 (18 subjects) and U16 (17 subjects); two control groups: U14 (18 subjects) and U16 (17 subjects). Arithmetic averages of the anthropometric characteristics of the subject groups: experimental group U14: height 172.89 cm, weight 58.22 kg, BMI 19.56; control group U14: height 165.44 cm, weight 50.17 kg, BMI 18.53; experimental group U16: height 179.94 cm, weight 70.82 kg, BMI 20.35; control group U16: height 183.88 cm, weight 73.41 kg, BMI 20.83. An 18-week experimental program that integrates Fitlight technology in order to develop coordination and agility skills and corrective agility was implemented in the experimental groups. This study included six tests: T agility test, T agility test with ball, reactive T agility test, reactive T agility test with ball, Illinois agility test, and Illinois agility test with ball. The results of this study showed statistically significant progress between the initial and final testing for the experimental group, p < 0.05. The Cohen’s values of the experimental groups were above 0.8, which denotes a large effect size; for the control group, these sizes were small and medium. The comparative analysis of the experimental and control groups, U14 and U16, highlights significant statistical differences in favor of the experimental groups, for all the agility tests of this study. This study highlights the effectiveness of incorporating advanced training tools like Fitlight in sports training, particularly for young basketball players. This approach surpasses traditional methods in enhancing agility, suggesting a paradigm shift towards technology-integrated training in sports. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
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25 pages, 5363 KiB  
Article
RunsGuard Framework: Context Aware Cricket Game Strategy for Field Placement and Score Containment
by Aatif Hussain, Shazia Arshad and Awais Hassan
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 2500; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14062500 - 15 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1704
Abstract
Sports analytics utilizes data analysis techniques and computational methods to gain insights, make informed decisions, and facilitate improvements in the performance of individuals and teams. Cricket is one of the most popular games and continues to evolve worldwide. The availability of ball-by-ball data [...] Read more.
Sports analytics utilizes data analysis techniques and computational methods to gain insights, make informed decisions, and facilitate improvements in the performance of individuals and teams. Cricket is one of the most popular games and continues to evolve worldwide. The availability of ball-by-ball data demands in-depth investigation of player strategies, team dynamics, and the impact of contextual variables. Existing studies explored various aspects of cricket analytics, including detecting key events, predicting outcomes, and ranking teams. However, the literature lacks a comprehensive integrated framework that processes unstructured sports commentary, extracts actionable insights, conducts a thorough player analysis, and develops strategic plans while considering contextual factors. This work aims to propose a bowling and fielding strategy to contain a batsman. For this purpose, we developed a comprehensive context-aware framework that collects data, extracts insights from commentary, identifies player strengths and weaknesses, and proposes cricket bowling and fielding strategies according to the given context. To evaluate this work, we implemented a case study that simulated different scenarios, and our framework suggested bowling and fielding strategies. In these simulations, the proposed strategies consistently demonstrated a substantial reduction in the number of runs that were scored. On average, the framework reduces the batsman’s score rate by 33%. These findings underscore the practical effectiveness of research in optimizing field placement and effectively reducing scoring opportunities. Finally, by bridging the gap between data analytics and cricket game strategy, this methodology provides a competitive advantage to coaches, captains, and players. In the future, we aim to involve temporal patterns to understand the evolving behavior of players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
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14 pages, 304 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Relationship between Anaerobic and Morphological Characteristics and Competition Success in Young Male Slovenian Judo Athletes
by Jožef Šimenko, Nik Mahnič, David Kukovica, Hrvoje Sertić, Ivan Segedi, Radoje Milić, Damir Karpljuk, Bayram Ceylan and Samo Rauter
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14031235 - 1 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1163
Abstract
Judo elements rely on lower and upper body muscle power, supported by the ATP-PCr energy system, which is crucial in high-intensity tasks. This study aims to assess the anaerobic status of young male competitive judokas using the upper body Wingate test and explore [...] Read more.
Judo elements rely on lower and upper body muscle power, supported by the ATP-PCr energy system, which is crucial in high-intensity tasks. This study aims to assess the anaerobic status of young male competitive judokas using the upper body Wingate test and explore associations with competition performance and individual morphological characteristics. A total of 29 male judokas from the U18 and U20 age categories were tested, all actively participating in top-tier national and international competitions. Anthropometric characteristics and body composition measurements were obtained for all participants through bioelectrical impedance analysis. Anaerobic testing was conducted using the upper body Wingate test with a hand ergometer. Competition performance was recorded from the final national cup ranking list. The results presented no statistically significant correlations between morphological and anaerobic variables and competitive performance among selected participants. This highlights the importance of the necessity of updated training programs to increase the anaerobic performance of young Slovenian judokas. Additionally, it shows that in these age groups, anaerobic performance is not the crucial factor but just one piece of the puzzle in young judokas’ successful competition performance; therefore other variables should be further researched. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Performance Analysis and Technology in Sports)
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