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Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects

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 August 2025 | Viewed by 12891

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Division of Health & Kinesiology, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
Interests: exercise science; exercise physiology; exercise performance; sports science; physical fitness strength and conditioning
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Division of Health & Kinesiology, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
Interests: athletic training; biomechanics; lower extremity musculoskeletal injury preventioan & rehabilitation; functional performance

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Regular exercise and physical conditioning are effective behavioral strategies to prevent musculoskeletal degeneration and chronic diseases and promote the overall health of individuals. Public health institutes in almost every country around the world have established and provided their own physical activity guidelines for disease prevention and health promotion, but these guidelines are somewhat generic. In this Special Issue, we aim to explore safe and effective exercise interventions to improve the function of human systems, including the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, to ameliorate related diseases, and to rehabilitate functional impairments. Experimental studies, reviews, and meta-analysis studies that examine the effectiveness of various exercise interventions in the prevention and management of disease, rehabilitation and improvement of human function; research studies on the development of strategies to promote physical activity using mobile platforms and virtual reality technology; innovative measurement technologies and biomarker exploration studies related to sports medicine and rehabilitation are all welcome in this Special Issue. When preparing to submit a structured review, please follow the PRISMA guidelines.

Dr. Moon-Hyon Hwang
Dr. Jupil Ko
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • exercise
  • sport medicine
  • physical activity
  • health
  • rehabilitation
  • conditioning
  • cardiovascular disease
  • injury
  • cancer

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 1010 KiB  
Article
Effect of Low-Intensity High-Repetition Versus High-Intensity Low-Repetition Elastic Band Resistance Training on Functional Physical Fitness and Myokine Levels in Older Adults
by Moon Jin Lee, Jun-Young Sung and Jiyoun Kim
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020757 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 558
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effects of low-intensity high-repetition (LI-HR) and high-intensity low-repetition (HI-LR) resistance training (RT) on functional fitness and myokines in older adults. A total of 30 participants (mean age ~76 years) were randomized into control (n = 10), LI-HR (n = 10), or HI-LR (n = 10) groups. Participants in LI-HR and HI-LR groups performed elastic band-based RT three times per week for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included functional fitness (relative grip strength, sit-to-stand, 4 m walk, timed up-and-go (TUG)), ankle muscle strength, lower extremity power, and myokine levels (IL-6, IGF-1, SPARC, BDNF). Both experimental groups showed significant IL-6 reduction (LI-HR: p = 0.033; HI-LR: p = 0.015) and IGF-1 increase (LI-HR: p = 0.003; HI-LR: p < 0.001). SPARC increased significantly only in the HI-LR group (p = 0.021). Functional improvements were noted in TUG for both groups, while the 4 m walk improved significantly in the HI-LR group (p < 0.001). Body fat percentage increased in both LI-HR (p = 0.003) and HI-LR (p = 0.047). In conclusion, both LI-HR and HI-LR RT effectively enhance functional fitness and key myokines, with LI-HR emerging as a promising, accessible option for older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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15 pages, 1042 KiB  
Article
Acute Effects of a Single-Bout Session of High-Intensity Functional Training and Moderate-Intensity Functional Training on Cognitive Functions, Anxiety, and Stress in Healthy Adults
by Francisco José Trujillo-Gutiérrez, José López-Aguilar, Francisco Álvarez-Salvago, Honorato Morente-Oria and José Daniel Jiménez-García
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010439 - 6 Jan 2025
Viewed by 759
Abstract
Background: Currently, it has been observed that a fast-paced lifestyle, along with factors such as work pressure and economic and political uncertainty, among others, negatively impacts cognitive functions and increases levels of anxiety and stress in the population. In this context, physical exercise [...] Read more.
Background: Currently, it has been observed that a fast-paced lifestyle, along with factors such as work pressure and economic and political uncertainty, among others, negatively impacts cognitive functions and increases levels of anxiety and stress in the population. In this context, physical exercise has been shown to be an effective means of alleviating these effects. The aim of this study is to analyze the acute effects of a single-bout session of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and a single-bout session of moderate-intensity functional training (MIFT) on cognitive functions and psychological responses such as anxiety and stress. Methods: The study presents an experimental design with an analytical approach, involving 57 healthy adults in a 30 min functional exercise circuit. The HIFT group, with 28 participants, performed a high-intensity exercise circuit (>85% HR max). The MIFT group, with 29 participants, performed a moderate-intensity exercise circuit (70–80% HR max). To evaluate the dependent variables of executive function, attention, memory, anxiety, and stress, the Stroop Test, d2 Test, Word-Recall Test, STAI, and PSS were used, respectively. These tests were administered, in the order mentioned, immediately before and immediately after the training session. Results: Both groups (HIFT and MIFT) showed significant improvements in executive function, attention, and memory, as well as significant reductions in anxiety and stress after the intervention (all p values ranged between p < 0.001 and p < 0.04). However, the HIFT group demonstrated greater improvements in cognitive function and more pronounced reductions in anxiety and stress when compared to the MIFT group. Conclusions: Both HIFT and MIFT can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety and stress, but high-intensity exercise appears to offer greater benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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9 pages, 623 KiB  
Article
Association between Resting Heart Rate and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance in South Korean Adults
by An-Sik Heo and Jung-Chul Lee
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7096; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167096 - 13 Aug 2024
Viewed by 981
Abstract
Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system’s status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and [...] Read more.
Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system’s status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Korean adults. Using data from the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2019), we analyzed 6118 adults and classified the participants into four groups based on their RHR (≤67, 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 beats/min [bpm]). Logistic regression analysis considering demographic, lifestyle, and biochemical factors revealed that the odds of having a HOMA-IR of 2.5 or higher were significantly increased in the higher RHR groups. Specifically, compared to the ≤67 bpm group, the 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 bpm groups had increased odds of 1.277, 1.599, and 1.919 times, respectively. These results are expected to contribute to the development of strategies for the early diagnosis and management of metabolic diseases through the RHR, and further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of this relationship, including the management of the RHR through lifestyle modification and regular exercise and the effect of reducing insulin resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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9 pages, 493 KiB  
Communication
Effects of Black Maca Supplementation on Isokinetic Muscle Function and Inflammation in Elite Athletes and Non-Athletes
by Eunjae Lee, Sunghwun Kang and Seung-Taek Lim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7005; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167005 - 9 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1838
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the effects of black maca supplementation on isokinetic muscle function and inflammatory markers in athletes and to extend these findings to non-athletes. The study involved 24 male participants, including 16 elite athletes (soft tennis and table tennis players) [...] Read more.
This study aimed to examine the effects of black maca supplementation on isokinetic muscle function and inflammatory markers in athletes and to extend these findings to non-athletes. The study involved 24 male participants, including 16 elite athletes (soft tennis and table tennis players) and 8 non-athletes (university students). Participants consumed capsules containing 2.5 g of 100% concentrated black maca extract over a 12-week period. Isokinetic muscle performance and physical fitness (strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, power, agility, cardiovascular endurance) assessments were conducted at baseline and after 12 weeks of supplementation. Two-way within-factor ANOVA showed a significant group × time interaction for 120°/s flexor movements (p < 0.05). Paired t-tests demonstrated significant improvements in 30°/s and 120°/s extensor and flexor movements in both athlete groups (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Similarly, significant enhancements were observed in the non-athletes for the 30°/s flexor and 120°/s extensor and flexor movements (p < 0.01). Furthermore, reductions in interleukin-6 (from 137.9 ± 8.8 to 132.7 ± 4.6, p < 0.05) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (from 274.1 ± 13.4 to 264.2 ± 3.2, p < 0.05) were noted in the soft tennis group. The table tennis group also showed significant decreases in interleukin-6 (from 135.9 ± 4.7 to 131.3 ± 2.5, p < 0.01) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (from 282.1 ± 19.2 to 267.0 ± 6.4, p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the non-athlete group. Black maca supplementation may enhance isokinetic muscle function in elite athletes by reducing muscle contraction fatigue and improving anti-inflammatory responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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9 pages, 214 KiB  
Communication
Designing and Conducting an Injury Study in Amateur Badminton Players
by Jin-Wook Jeon, Seung-Taek Lim and Ji-Hoon Cho
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5194; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125194 - 14 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1444
Abstract
This study aims to examine sports injuries among amateur badminton players engaged in recreational activities, establishing a foundation for developing effective injury prevention and training programs. We assessed 504 amateur badminton players (302 males, 202 females) competing in the 2023 National Badminton Tournament [...] Read more.
This study aims to examine sports injuries among amateur badminton players engaged in recreational activities, establishing a foundation for developing effective injury prevention and training programs. We assessed 504 amateur badminton players (302 males, 202 females) competing in the 2023 National Badminton Tournament in South Korea. This study focused on players involved in doubles matches, omitting singles competitors. Participants were divided into categories based on competitive and training sessions to document the location and type of injuries sustained. During competitions, the most frequently injured body parts were the waist (11.92%), ankle (11.66%), and knees and shoulders (11.53% each). In training sessions, injuries primarily affected the back and knees (12.43%) and shoulders (12.21%). The most common types of injuries during competitions were to muscles (35.60%), ligaments (29.32%), and tendons (12.04%), and during training to muscles (39.91%), ligaments (26.68%), and tendons (13.23%). Injuries resulting from player-to-player contact represented 19.44% of cases, while those involving non-player elements such as facility equipment accounted for 16.47%. There is a critical need to develop targeted injury prevention programs for amateur badminton players to mitigate injuries and enhance performance, thereby helping prevent the progression to chronic injury stages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
11 pages, 466 KiB  
Article
Arrangement Order Effects of Neuromuscular Training on the Physical Fitness of Youth Soccer Players
by Kwang-Jin Lee, Se-Young Seon and Keun-Ok An
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4748; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114748 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1157
Abstract
Knowledge is limited regarding how neuromuscular training, conducted before and after soccer training, affects the fitness levels of youth soccer players. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of an eight-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program implemented before or after a soccer [...] Read more.
Knowledge is limited regarding how neuromuscular training, conducted before and after soccer training, affects the fitness levels of youth soccer players. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of an eight-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program implemented before or after a soccer session on physical fitness in youth soccer players. Thirty-two youth soccer players were categorized into two groups—namely, NMT before soccer-specific training (NBS; n = 15) and NMT after soccer-specific training (NAS; n = 17). NMT comprised integrated resistance, dynamic stability, core, and plyometric training three times weekly and was conducted for 8 weeks. Before and after the exercise intervention, the counter-movement jump (CMJ) and 10 and 20 m sprint were analyzed, and the results of the T-agility test, Illinois change of direction test (ICDT), and Y-balance test were assessed for all participants. In terms of the interaction between the effects of the time of observation and group, both groups showed improvement in the results of the 10 m sprint and T-agility and Y-balance tests. Regarding the difference in the time of observation, the NBS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 and 20 m sprints, and T-agility test after the exercise intervention, and the NAS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 m sprint, T-agility test, and ICDT after the exercise intervention. These findings suggest that neuromuscular training has the potential to improve the 10 m sprint ability and T-agility test results of youth soccer players, regardless of the training sequence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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Review

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12 pages, 10817 KiB  
Review
Importance of Electrolytes in Exercise Performance and Assessment Methodology After Heat Training: A Narrative Review
by Marcos S. Keefe, Courteney L. Benjamin, Douglas J. Casa and Yasuki Sekiguchi
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10103; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210103 - 5 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1976
Abstract
Performing exercise in hot environmental conditions presents athletes with potential negative physiological and perceptual implications. Key constituents, such as fluid and electrolytes, are lost during sweating through the process of cooling the human body. The loss of electrolytes impairs exercise performance. Heat training [...] Read more.
Performing exercise in hot environmental conditions presents athletes with potential negative physiological and perceptual implications. Key constituents, such as fluid and electrolytes, are lost during sweating through the process of cooling the human body. The loss of electrolytes impairs exercise performance. Heat training is one strategy to combat sweat electrolyte loss, with decreased sweat electrolyte concentration being a main sudomotor adaptation. To measure sweat electrolyte concentration, two common assessment methods are typically utilized: whole-body washdown and regional sweat patch measurements. The effects of physiological adaptations and sweat electrolyte assessment methodology have been investigated; however, the importance of methodological differences between sweat electrolyte measurements following heat training has yet to be explored. This review explores the differences between sweat electrolyte measurement techniques following adaptations incurred with heat training. Future research directions are also provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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Other

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13 pages, 1758 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effect of Exercise Interventions on Sleep Quality and Weight Loss in Individuals with Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials
by Soonjo Ka, Yu Hyeon Choe, Young-Im Kim, Nahyun Kim, Minjae Seo, Youngju Choi and Jonghoon Park
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010467 - 6 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1038
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. The Risk of Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB 2) tool, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Data synthesis and meta-analysis were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 4 (CMA version 4) software, with outcomes expressed as pooled effect sizes, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Seven RCTs encompassing 908 participants were analyzed. The meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in sleep outcomes (OR = 3.93, 95% CI [2.04, 7.56], p < 0.001). The combined aerobic and resistance exercise regimen showed the most substantial effects on sleep quality. Additionally, four of the seven RCTs included in the weight loss analysis indicated a significant improvement in weight loss (OR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.79, 3.71], p < 0.001). Exercise interventions have a strong potential for improving sleep quality and weight loss in adults with obesity. Future studies should focus on developing optimized targeted strategies for sleep enhancement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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13 pages, 1495 KiB  
Case Report
Rehabilitation and Return to Play of an Ice Hockey Athlete after Lateral Meniscus Repair: A Case Report
by Hyung Gyu Jeon, Jong Hyeon Lee, Tae Kyu Kang, Dong Wook Lee, Kyoung Uk Oh, Sae Yong Lee and Byong Hun Kim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4084; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104084 - 11 May 2024
Viewed by 1609
Abstract
This report presents the case of an ice hockey player diagnosed with a tear in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus at 19 years of age. In addition, we suggest a rehabilitation exercise program that enabled an early return to play for [...] Read more.
This report presents the case of an ice hockey player diagnosed with a tear in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus at 19 years of age. In addition, we suggest a rehabilitation exercise program that enabled an early return to play for an ice hockey athlete in a university sports league. The patient underwent arthroscopic meniscal repair and was discharged one day after surgery. A three-stage rehabilitation program was developed, as follows: Phase I, the protective phase (reduce inflammation symptoms and restore range of motion to enable weight-bearing); Phase II, the restorative phase (improve the strength of the quadriceps muscle and recover cardiovascular endurance); Phase III, the return to full functional activity (familiarize the patient with sport-specific skills and recover a symmetric functional level on both sides). After completing the 10-week rehabilitation program, the patient returned to play and took part in games 71 and 84 days after surgery. The patient had no meniscus reinjury in the 10 years after surgery while playing in university and professional ice hockey leagues. The functional performance-focused rehabilitation program presented in this case report resulted in an early return to sport and good long-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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