Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the effects of varying antagonist volume in upper-body supersets on mechanical (lifting velocity), metabolic (blood lactate), and perceptual (perceived exertion) variables. Methods: A randomized crossover study was conducted in which 14 resistance-trained men performed three strength training conditions. In the control condition (CTR), participants performed four sets of bench press with 8 repetitions at their 12-repetition maximum load, whereas in the experimental conditions, a prone bench pull was performed immediately after the bench press using 33% (SS1) or 66% (SS2) of the individual’s maximum possible repetitions. Lifting velocity, lactate concentration, and perceived exertion were measured. Repeated-measures ANOVA or Friedman test was applied to compare conditions, with Bonferroni-corrected post hoc tests and effect sizes reported. Results: Despite a progressive decrease in mean set velocity (p < 0.001) and fastest set velocity across sets (p = 0.014) in the agonist exercise (i.e., bench press), these variables did not significantly differ between conditions. The only difference observed was a lower mean set velocity during the prone bench pull in the SS2 condition compared to the SS1 condition (p = 0.011). Perceived exertion also increased across sets (p < 0.001), with no differences between protocols. Blood lactate concentration, measured before the final set, was significantly higher in SS2 compared to CTR (p = 0.003) and SS1 (p < 0.001), indicating a greater metabolic load during training. Conclusions: Agonist–antagonist supersets allow for reduced training time without negatively impacting acute mechanical performance in the agonist exercise. Low-fatigue configurations (SS1) in the secondary exercise do not significantly increase lactate levels, while moderate-fatigue configurations (SS2) in the secondary exercise increase metabolic load. Full article

Background: The use of knee taping is widely used to enhance stability and landing performance. However, its impact on jumping performance, a key sports performance determinant, remains unknown. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of knee taping on continuous biomechanics during the countermovement jump (CMJ). Methods: Nineteen recreational female netball players (age 22 ± 2.69 years; height 167.76 ± 7.47 cm; mass 63.32 ± 10.57 kg) performed CMJs under four taping conditions—no tape (NT), rigid tape (RT), dynamic tape (DT), and kinesio tape (KT). All participants completed all four conditions. Continuous biomechanical data were analysed using one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (SPM1d) with repeated measures ANOVA (p < 0.05). Results: KT significantly reduced time to take-off (from 2.01 ± 0.67 s with NT to 1.26 ± 0.61 s with KT, p < 0.001) and increased modified reactive strength index (from 0.12 ± 0.05 with NT to 0.21 ± 0.06 with KT, p < 0.001). RT increased braking phase velocity compared to NT (−1.53 ± 0.57 m/s vs. −1.69 ± 0.62 m/s, p = 0.01). SPM1d revealed significant kinematic changes across conditions, including reduced ankle flexion and hip flexion with KT, and increased knee rotation with RT and DT. Conclusions: Knee taping modified joint kinematics without enhancing maximal outputs such as power or jump height. KT improved reactive strength indices, suggesting potential benefits for rapid jump performance, while RT and DT mainly altered joint coordination. Full article

Background: Change-of-direction (CoD) ability is critical in karate, yet sport-specific assessment tools are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of a newly developed karate-specific CoD test for male and female athletes and to examine its relationships with other motor performance measures. Methods: Thirty-six experienced karatekas (20 men: age 20.8 ± 1.8 years, height 1.79 ± 0.05 m, body mass 73.1 ± 10.6 kg; 16 women: age 21.2 ± 1.7 years, height 1.67 ± 0.04 m, body mass 63.5 ± 8.9 kg), all national squad members, participated. Athletes performed the karate CoD test twice to assess test–retest reliability, and completed additional CoD tests (Y CoD, T-half), linear sprint tests, standing long jump, and Y-balance tests to evaluate criterion validity and associations with other motor abilities. Results: The karate CoD test demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC = 0.996), with similar consistency in men and women. Criterion validity was supported by a meaningful correlation with the Y CoD test, but not with the T-half test. Associations with linear sprinting and lower-limb power (standing long jump) were weak or inconsistent, indicating that karate-specific CoD performance is distinct from general physical capacities. Conclusions: The karate CoD test shows good reliability and validity for assessing planned change-of-direction ability in elite karate athletes. Its use should be limited to pre-planned movements and complemented with other tests (e.g., reactive agility, sprinting, jumping, strength) for a fuller performance assessment. Full article

Background: Joint position sense (JPS) is a critical component of proprioception and postural control, especially in older adults, where deficits are associated with increased risk of falls and functional decline. Recent studies have explored smartphone-based digital inclinometers as accessible tools for clinical proprioceptive assessment, but their participant-level reproducibility in institutionalized elderly populations remains unexplored. Objective: We aimed to examine the reproducibility of joint position sense performance in institutionalized older adults, using a smartphone-based inclinometer that has been applied in other populations. Assessing joint position sense with accessible smartphone-based tools may provide practical insights for rehabilitation and functional assessment in older adults. Methods: Thirty-five-year-old or older adults (mean age 85.9 ± 8.19 years) participated in this test–retest study. JPS was assessed using the iPhone^® inclinometer. Participants memorized and attempted to reproduce a 30° forward trunk flexion while standing. The absolute angular error was measured across two sessions, one week apart. Relative and absolute reproducibility were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 2,1), standard error of measurement (SEM), Smallest Real Difference (SRD), and Bland–Altman analysis. Results: The ICC for the whole sample was 0.839 (95% CI: 0.72–0.91), indicating good reproducibility of participants’ proprioceptive performance. SEM and SRD were 3.65° (33.3%) and 10.1° (92.3%), respectively. Bland–Altman plots showed minimal bias (0.23°) and only 5.71% of values fell outside the 95% limits of agreement. Conclusions: Participants demonstrated moderate-to-good reproducibility in replicating joint position sense, reflecting consistent proprioceptive performance across sessions. This approach demonstrates feasibility for repeated proprioceptive assessment in this population. These findings have potential applications for functional monitoring and fall-prevention programs in institutionalized older adults. Full article

Background: Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) is a qualitative method that standardizes resistance and reactance relative to stature (R/H and Xc/H) and plots them as vectors on an R-Xc graph. This equation-free approach assesses body composition, allowing for the evaluation of hydration status and cellular integrity through tolerance ellipses. This study aimed to systematically map BIVA reference ellipses across general, pediatric, pathological, and athletic populations. Methods: A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Five databases were searched. Extracted data included (a) sample characteristics (sample size, age, sex, BMI, country, ethnicity), (b) population type, (c) analyzer specifications, and (d) R/H and Xc/H means, standard deviations, and correlation values. Results: A total of 53 studies published between 1994 and July 2025 were included. From these, 508 tolerance ellipses were identified: 281 for the general population (18–92 years), 133 for children/adolescents (0–18 years), 49 for athletes, and 45 for pathological groups. Studies were primarily conducted in Europe and the Americas, using 11 analyzers with variations in measurement protocols, including body side, posture, and electrode placement. Conclusions: This scoping review categorizes the existing BIVA tolerance ellipses by population type, sex, age, BMI, device used, and measurement protocol. The structured presentation is intended to guide researchers, clinicians, nutritionists, and sports professionals in selecting appropriate reference ellipses tailored to specific populations and contexts. Full article

Objectives: Sports-related concussion (SRC) is mostly associated with contact and combat sports. However, emerging evidence suggest that cyclists are also at risk of repeated concussion injury. Moreover, long-term neurophysiological outcomes in cycling cohorts remain underexplored. This novel study investigated the long-term effect of repetitive concussions in cyclists. Road, mountain biking (MTB), and BMX riders with a history of concussions and self-reported persistent symptoms were assess for neurophysiology and cognitive–motor performance compared to previously concussed cyclists with no ongoing symptoms. Both groups were compared to age-matched with controls. Methods: Using a cross-sectional between-group design, 25 cyclists with a history of concussions (15 symptomatic, 10 asymptomatic) and 20 controls completed symptom reporting, cognitive and balance assessments (SCAT5), sensorimotor testing using vibrotactile stimulation, and neurophysiological assessments via transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Results: Symptomatic cyclists reported a higher number of concussions compared to asymptomatic cyclists (p = 0.041). Cognitive testing revealed large effects (d > 1.0), with impaired concentration in symptomatic cyclists compared to controls (p = 0.005). Motor assessments demonstrated large effects (d > 1.0), with slower tandem gait times (p < 0.001) and greater errors (p = 0.02) in the symptomatic group. Sensorimotor testing indicated slowed simple reaction times (p = 0.001) and poorer temporal order judgement (p = 0.038). TMS showed large effects (d > 1.0) in increased cortical inhibition in the symptomatic group, with prolong cortical silent periods (p < 0.05) and large effects (d > 1.0), and reduced short interval intracortical inhibition (p = 0.001) compared to asymptomatic cyclists and controls. Conclusions: Cyclists reporting persistent symptoms showed greater cortical inhibition and impaired cognitive–motor performance, consistent with findings in contact sport athletes. These results suggest that repeated concussions in cycling carry risk of chronic neurophysiological alterations. Cycling disciplines should consider more rigorous concussion identification protocols and stricter management strategies to mitigate persistent and long-term consequences. Full article

Background: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, leading to low energy availability (LEA) and impairments of physiological and/or psychological functions in female and male athletes. While physical determinants of REDs are well documented, psychological factors such as body image (BI) have received comparatively little attention. The aim of this scoping review was to synthesize the current scientific evidence on the relationship between BI and REDs. Methods: A scoping review examined the current literature, including quantitative and qualitative studies. The scoping review was conducted in April 2025 in PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, APA PsycArticles, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL and OpenDissertations. Studies were included if they examined BI aspects in relation to LEA or REDs in a sporting context, regardless of participants’ gender, age, level or sport. Inclusion criteria were based on the Population—Context—Concept (PPC) framework. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, covering athletes from various ages, genders, sports, and performance levels. Findings indicate that BI dissatisfaction—manifesting, for example, as a drive for thinness or muscularity, exercise dependence, and disordered eating—represents a relevant psychological factor associated with LEA in both female and male athletes. Conclusions: The relationship between BI and REDs is complex and insufficiently explored. Future research should address this link systematically across sports, performance levels, genders, and age groups. In sports medicine practice, screening tools should systematically incorporate psychological risk factors such as BI disturbances to enable early detection, targeted intervention, and prevention of long-term health consequences. Full article

Background: Given the persistent sex-based disparities in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevalence and the heightened susceptibility observed during critical stages of development in female academy-level players, it is necessary to enhance the effectiveness of prevention programs, particularly during change of direction (COD). Objectives: This study aims to evaluate whether a multicomponent periodized program modifies three-dimensional knee angular velocity and hamstrings and quadriceps muscle activity during a COD task in under-16 female football players. A secondary objective was to determine whether adaptations differed based on lower limb dominance. Methods: A non-randomized, multicenter controlled trial with a pre–post design was conducted involving 35 players (age: 15.50 ± 1.22), allocated to either an intervention (n = 17) or control (n = 18) group. The intervention group undertook a 12-week multicomponent periodized program within their usual training program whilst the control group undertook their usual training program. The peak and range of thigh and shank angular velocity across three planes, along with the average rectified and peak envelope EMG signals of the Biceps Femoris (BF), Semitendinosus (ST), Vastus Medialis (VM) and Vastus Lateralis (VL), were recorded during the preparation and load phases, using the Change of Direction and Acceleration Test. Three-factor mixed model ANOVAs and non-parametric tests were applied, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements in sagittal and coronal planes shank angular velocities and thigh coronal and transverse plane angular velocities. Muscle activity patterns also improved, particularly in the ST and VM, suggesting enhanced medial stabilization and neuromuscular control. Functional improvements were most evident in the dominant limb. Conclusions: The 12-week multicomponent periodized program effectively modified three-dimensional knee kinematics and muscle activity during a COD task in under-16 female football players. Full article

Background: Only a limited number of studies have examined the effects of short-term, strength–speed-oriented velocity-based training (VBT) on lower-body power in female junior volleyball players and elite female artistic gymnasts. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of a four-week VBT intervention on jump performance and force–velocity characteristics in these athletes. Methods: Seven junior female volleyball players (age: 17.4 ± 0.9 years; height: 179.4 ± 6.5 cm; weight: 74.01 ± 3.5 kg) (top-league team members), and seven elite female artistic gymnasts (age: 17.6 ± 2.9 years; height: 159.6 ± 7.2 cm; weight: 59.3 ± 6.3 kg) (National Team members) completed two weekly training sessions for four weeks, each consisting of four sets of six repetitions of parallel back squats (PBSs) and hip thrusts (HTs). Training loads were regulated using barbell velocity targets (PBSs: 0.46–0.72 m/s; HTs: 0.36–0.60 m/s). Pre- and post-intervention assessments included loaded (15–60% body mass) and unloaded squat jumps (SJs) and countermovement jumps (CMJs) to determine peak power output, jump height, and force–velocity profiles. Results: Volleyball players showed significant improvements in peak power predominantly during loaded SJs (SJ45%: +5.5%, p < 0.01; SJ60%: +5.7%, p < 0.05), whereas gymnasts exhibited greater gains in loaded CMJs (CMJ60%: +7.7%, p < 0.01). In contrast, unloaded SJ and CMJ performances remained largely unchanged for all athletes. Both groups demonstrated a significantly steeper post-intervention force–velocity profile (p < 0.001), indicating an enhanced capacity to produce force at lower movement velocities under external loading. Conclusions: Strength–speed-oriented VBT was effective in improving power production under loaded conditions but had limited transfer to unloaded jump performance. These findings highlight the necessity of subsequent training blocks emphasizing high-velocity, sport-specific movements to optimize explosive performance. Future studies should further investigate low-velocity-loss training protocols as a potential means of enhancing unloaded jump outcomes. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to compare the external load demands of large-sided games, with and without regulatory interruptions, to the average (FOOTmatch) and most demanding scenarios (MDSmatch) observed in official football matches, taking into account players’ pitch positions. Methods: Large-sided training games were implemented with regulatory interruptions (FOOTtask) and without interruptions (MURDtask), during which a coach continuously introduced new balls to maximise effective playing time. GPS data were collected from eight official matches and six training sessions, involving a total of 30 young male football players. Results: MURDtask surpassed FOOTmatch, FOOTtask, and even MDSmatch in distance covered (Effect Size = 0.6–2.5), and equaled MDSmatch in the number of decelerations > 3 m·s⁻². Both FOOTtask and MURDtask exceeded the average match demands in most locomotor external load variables, except for sprinting efforts > 28 km·h⁻¹. However, none of the training games reached the peak values of MDSmatch in high-speed running or high-intensity accelerations and decelerations (>4 m·s⁻²). Positional analysis revealed significantly higher values in MDSmatch for most variables, except for decelerations <−3 m·s⁻². Conclusions: MURDtask is a useful strategy to overload players, but additional tasks are required to replicate high-speed and high-intensity accelerations and decelerations typical of MDSmatch. Full article

Background: As cardiovascular medicine advances rapidly, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has garnered increasing attention. Although AI has been widely adopted in diagnostics, risk prediction, and decision support, its application in exercise-based cardiovascular rehabilitation is still limited, representing a new and promising research frontier. Objective: This scoping review aimed to identify and analyze original studies that have applied AI to exercise-based interventions designed to improve cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: Following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and IEEE Xplore were searched for articles published between January 2015 and August 2025. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed by human research employing AI (machine learning or deep learning) to deliver, adapt, or monitor an exercise intervention with cardiovascular outcomes. Reviews, diagnostic-only studies, protocols without data, and animal studies were excluded. Non-original works (reviews, protocols), animal studies, and purely diagnostic applications were excluded, ensuring a strict focus on AI applied within exercise interventions. Data extraction focused on study design, AI method, exercise modality, outcomes, and findings. Results: From 2183 records, nine studies met the inclusion criteria (two RCTs, feasibility pilots, and validation studies). Designs included feasibility pilots, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and validation studies. AI applications encompassed adaptive step goals, reinforcement learning for engagement, coaching apps, machine learning–based exercise prescription, and continuous monitoring (e.g., VO₂ estimation). These AI methods, such as machine learning and reinforcement learning, were used to personalize exercise interventions and improve cardiovascular outcomes. Reported outcomes included blood pressure reduction, improved adherence, increased daily steps, improvement in VO₂max, continuous physiological monitoring, and enhanced diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions: Findings demonstrate that AI has the potential to significantly enhance cardiovascular rehabilitation. It can personalize exercise prescriptions, enhance adherence, and facilitate safe monitoring in home settings. However, the evidence base remains preliminary, with very few RCTs and substantial methodological heterogeneity. Future research must prioritize large-scale clinical trials, explainable AI, and equitable implementation strategies to ensure clinical translation. Full article

Purpose: The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the effects of commonly used dietary supplements on soccer performance and to bridge the gap between scientific evidence and their practical application by practitioners working with elite soccer players. Methods: Relevant literature involving dietary supplement use in soccer players was identified through searches of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Additionally, insights were gathered from a cross-sectional online questionnaire completed by practitioners (nutritionists, physicians, sport scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, and heads of performance) working with first-division men’s teams across five European leagues. Eligible respondents were over 18 years old with >2 years of experience in elite sport. The 20-question survey, designed on Qualtrics and pilot-tested for content validity, covered practitioner background, beliefs about supplementation, and real-world practices. The study was approved by the Ethical Independent Committee in Genoa, Italy (Ref. 2020/12). Results: Among performance-enhancing supplements, caffeine has been shown to improve endurance, sprint performance, power, and cognitive function, while creatine consistently enhances short-duration, high-intensity efforts. Beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate help reduce the buildup of acidity in muscles during repeated high-intensity exercise, supporting repeated sprint performance. For hydration and endurance support, dietary nitrates improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, and glycerol enhances fluid retention in hot environments and during compressed match schedules, where players compete in multiple matches within a short recovery window. Regarding recovery aids, protein and tart cherry supplementation have been shown to accelerate recovery, reduce muscle damage, and support training adaptations. Field insights revealed that creatine and caffeine were widely adopted by practitioners (>90%), with protein powders also commonly recommended (>80%). In contrast, beta-alanine, tart cherry, and dietary nitrates were only partially integrated into daily practice (30%, 32%, and 48.5%, respectively), while sodium bicarbonate (24%) and glycerol (10.5%) were used by a minority. Conclusions: Although scientific evidence provides a strong foundation for the efficacy of dietary supplements, their translation into elite soccer practice is shaped by a range of practical factors, including cultural resistance, taste preferences, gastrointestinal side effects, established team routines, and individual player preferences. These findings highlight the importance of targeted education for players and staff, individualized supplementation plans, and close collaboration between nutritionists, coaches, and medical teams. However, our survey did not directly assess reasons for non-implementation. In addition to practical barriers reported by practitioners, unfamiliarity with current evidence likely contributes to this evidence–practice gap. Full article

Background: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of a novel two-week dynamic high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol, characterized by fixed-load and variable-time intervals (“two times up to ten minutes”), on performance and metabolic adaptations in well-trained cross-country skiers. Methods: Ten qualified skiers (six males, four females) completed six interval training sessions over two weeks. Pre- and post-intervention tests were performed to assess maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max) and ski speed reached, blood lactate concentration, respiratory gas exchange data, and body weight. Results: Maximal speed at VO_2max increased significantly from 13.5 ± 2.16 to 14.8 ± 1.7 km/h (p = 0.0196; Cohen’s d = 1.06). VO_2max itself was retained (p > 0.05), equivalence testing confirmed stable values within a ±2.8 mL/kg/min margin. Time to reach RER = 1.0 improved significantly across sessions (p = 0.021), indicating enhanced metabolic efficiency. Body weight decreased modestly but statistically significantly by 0.54 kg (p = 0.016). Conclusions: The dynamic HIIT protocol improved maximal performance (speed at VO_2max by 32.9%) and metabolic efficiency in trained skiers without altering VO_2max. These findings support the usefulness of flexible, individualized HIIT models to enhance aerobic endurance, especially for athletes at risk of performance plateaus. Full article

Objectives: Ammonia inhalants (AIs) are commonly used in competition with the assumption that they will increase arousal and reduce the detrimental effects of mental fatigue on performance. However, as the effect of AIs on mental fatigue is unclear, this study investigated (1) whether mental-fatigue-related changes in mood states are associated with reductions in maximal lower-body force production and (2) whether AIs reduce any mental-fatigue-induced changes in performance. Methods: In a randomized, crossover designed study, nine resistance trained males completed two trials, with and without AIs. Profile of mood states, isometric midthigh pull force, and electromyography were measured before and after completion of a 75 min AX-continuous performance test (AX-CPT). For AI trials, AIs were used prior to post-AX-CPT IMTPs. Results: The AX-CPT significantly increased all negative mood subscales, while decreasing vigor (all p < 0.05), resulting in an increase in total mood disturbance (pre-AX-CPT: 27.1 ± 3.17 vs. post-AX-CPT: 64.49 ± 4.01; p = 0.005). Additionally, compared to baseline, force was reduced immediately (1699 ± 345 vs. 1521 ± 324 N; p = 0.009), but not five minutes post-AX-CPT (p = 0.328). Electromyography did not change over time, and no differences between treatments were evident for any of the measures. Conclusions: Mental fatigue, and related mood disturbance, has the potential to acutely reduce lower-body, maximal force. This finding may have implications for athletes competing in strength sports where mental focus, arousal and maximal force production determine optimal performance. However, AIs offer no benefit to alleviating the detrimental effects of mental fatigue. Full article

Background: Body surface area is a key determinant of cardiac morphology and function, but it is often underestimated in the interpretation of athlete’s cardiac phenotypes. Aims: This study aimed to assess the role of anthropometric characteristics and whether particularly high vs. low body surface area (BSA) is associated with distinct morpho-functional and cardiometabolic features in elite athletes. Methods: We retrospectively included 2518 Olympic athletes. All underwent a pre-participation screening, including physical examination, ECG, blood analysis, echocardiography, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Participants were grouped by sex-specific BSA percentiles: Group A (<5th percentile), Group B (25th–75th), and Group C (>95th percentile). Functional, echocardiographic, and cardio-metabolic parameters were compared among groups. Results: In male athletes, Group C showed higher resting systolic blood pressure (123.8 ± 10.4 mmHg) than Group B (117.4 ± 9.6, p < 0.0001) and Group A (110.4 ± 13, p < 0.0001), and a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia (31.7% vs. 11.1% in Group B and 4% in Group A, p = 0.031). Despite greater LVEDD (59 ± 3 mm in Group C vs. 55 ± 2.9 in B and 51.1 ± 3.1 in A, p < 0.0001) and LV mass (p < 0.0001), functional performance was lower in Group C, with VO₂ max/kg of 35.2 ± 13.2 mL/min/kg vs. 44 ± 7.1 in B, and 47.8 ± 7.3 in A (p < 0.0001). Similar trends were observed in females for morpho-functional parameters, though lipid profiles did not significantly differ among groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Anthropometric traits significantly influence the cardiovascular and metabolic phenotype of elite athletes. Our findings support the integration of anthropometric profiling into the routine cardiovascular assessment of athletes, especially those at the extremes of body size, to better interpret physiological adaptations and risk profiles. Full article

Background: Football performance depends on the integration of physical, technical, and cognitive abilities under constantly changing conditions. In this context, dual-task training combining physical and cognitive demands has emerged as a promising approach to enhance decision-making and game intelligence in youth football players. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of an eight-week dual-task training programme on physical (speed, strength, and agility), cognitive (working memory, planning, processing speed, and response time), technical (dribbling and short passing), and dual-task performance in U16 football players. Methods: Thirty-two players (age: 14.88 ± 0.65 years; BMI: 20.98 ± 1.79 kg/m²) were randomly assigned to a control group (n = 14) and an experimental group (n = 18). The experimental group completed a dual cognitive–motor training (CMT) programme consisting of 24 sessions (3 sessions/week, 10–15 min each), integrated into regular football practice. Pre-intervention and post-intervention assessments included football skills (dribbling and passing tests), cognitive tests (Wom-Rest and Vismem-Plan), physical tests (countermovement jump, 20 m sprint, and 505 change-of-direction), and a dual-task test (soccer skills and cognitive aptitude test). Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in all assessed variables, while the control group exhibited no changes or declines in performance. The most notable effects were observed in SoSCAT with visual interference, dual-task cost, and 505 change-of-direction. Conclusions: The findings suggest that integrating brief dual CMT programmes into regular football practice can simultaneously enhance physical, technical, and cognitive performance in youth players. This evidence supports the implementation of dual CMT as an effective and time-efficient tool in talent development programmes. Full article

Background: Previous studies have experimentally investigated and simulated the effects of dynamic hyperinflation on respiratory system resistance variables in populations with different respiratory diseases. However, the acute effects of exercise on these parameters in healthy young adults are unknown; therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a submaximal exercise test on the resistance of the respiratory system in healthy adult individuals. Methods: This is an observational study conducted with healthy adults. Fifty healthy volunteers were recruited, of both sexes, over the age of 18, with no previous uncontrolled respiratory diseases and normal spirometry, with an average age of 32.2 ± 11.6 years old and an average BMI of 24.3 ± 3.87 kg/m². The participants underwent an anamnesis, the Impulse Oscillometry Test (IOS) with the variables R5, R20, X5, Fres and AX, followed by the six-minute walk test (6MWT), another IOS measure, immediately after the 6MWT, finishing with a spirometry test. A paired t-test was used for the analyses. Results: Our results showed that the volunteers exhibited a decrease after the 6MWT in the oscillometry parameters R5 (0.35 to 0.32, p = 0.0001), R20 (0.33 to 0.30, p < 0.0001), X5 (−0.13 to −0.10, p < 0.0001), Fres (13.07 to 11.70, p = 0.0042) and AX (0.48 to 034, p = 0.01). In addition, the volunteers walked an average of 623.34 ± 42.6 m in the 6MWT, which represents around 96.6% of what was predicted for this group. Conclusions: Submaximal exercise, as assessed by the 6MWT, acutely reduces respiratory impedance in healthy individuals, which can facilitate moderate-intensity physical activity, preventing sedentary behavior. Full article

Objectives: Elastic band training is a popular alternative to traditional resistance methods, but its effects on sport-specific performance in team athletes remain inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the efficacy of elastic band training on muscular strength, linear sprint, change of direction (COD), and jump height in team sport athletes. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies. The quantitative synthesis included studies comparing elastic band training interventions with control groups receiving routine training, habitual physical activity, or no additional resistance training intervention. Data were extracted using a standardized form, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to determine the pooled effect of the intervention on key performance indicators. A total of 729 athletes were included. Results: The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant positive effect of elastic band training on lower limb explosive power (SMD = 1.43, p = 0.01), change of direction performance (SMD = −2.54, p = 0.01), and sprint performance (SMD = −1.64, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Elastic band training is a highly effective and practical method for significantly improving key physical performance indicators, including explosive power, COD, and sprint ability, in team sport athletes. Its portability and adaptability make it a valuable alternative or complement to conventional resistance training. Full article

Background: This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of a yearly Multi-Component Exercise Training (MCET) program performed within the hospital setting on the functional capacity and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of inpatients with psychotic disorders. Methods: Forty-eight inpatients of a public Psychiatric Hospital with a diagnosis of psychosis participated in the study and were randomly assigned to two groups: (i) the intervention group (mean age: 46.6 ± 13.2) and (ii) the control group (mean age: 47.7 ± 8.9). The MCET program consisted of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (AE), Pilates exercises, and strengthening, balance, corrective and flexibility exercises, using rubber bands, mobility sticks and balls. Sessions were implemented three times per week over a 12-month period and each group session lasted for 30–45 min. The primary outcomes of the study included functional capacity and HRQoL. Functional capacity was assessed through measurements of strength (using handgrip and leg dynamometer), balance, and body positioning, while HRQoL was evaluated using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Results: At the end of the treatment, participants in the intervention group demonstrated significantly increased lower and upper extremity muscle strength by 35.9% (p < 0.01) and 23.6% (p < 0.01), respectively, improved balance by 18.1% (p < 0.001), and enhanced sit-and-reach and sit-to-stand results by 47.6% (p < 0.001) and 18.2% (p < 0.001), respectively, as well as increased distance covered at 6MWT by 26.2% (p < 0.001). Regarding the HRQoL, all the parameters of the SF-36 were improved, including general and mental health (p < 0.05), physical (p < 0.001) and social function (p < 0.05), physical (p < 0.01) and emotional roles (p < 0.01) and vitality and bodily pain (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The Physical Component Summary score (PCS) was enhanced significantly (p < 0.001), while the Mental Component Summary score (MCS) remained unchanged. Compliance with the 1-year ET program was 80%. Conclusions: The findings of the study indicated that a 1-year moderate-intensity MCET performed three times per week was safe, well accepted and efficient in improving physical functioning and HRQoL among inpatients with psychotic disorders. These results suggest that structured exercise interventions could be prescribed as add-ons to the pharmacological treatment for psychotic disorders. Full article