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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 October 2026 | Viewed by 10068

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Dr. Alejandro Sánchez-Pay

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Guest Editor

Performance Analysis and Biomechanics in Sport, Department of Physical Activity and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Murcia, C/Argentina, s/n, 30720 San Javier, Spain
Interests: performance analysis; training; racquet sports
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue, titled "Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports", provides a comprehensive review of the latest advancements in biomechanics and sports for high-performance athletes. Recent studies emphasize the importance of a balanced approach, combining strength, power, and endurance training across various sports and how these factors contribute to overall performance enhancement and injury prevention.

Additionally, new perspectives on the influence of factors such as nutrition and recovery on training efficacy can be explored. Personalized training strategies, taking into account individual variability in training response, will also be examined. Emerging technologies, such as wearables and data analytics, will be discussed as tools to maximize training outcomes. Collectively, this Special Issue offers a holistic view of current and emerging methods in biomechanics and sports, paving the way for future research and optimized practices for elite athletes and coaches.

Dr. Alejandro Sánchez-Pay
Guest Editor

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Keywords

biomechanics
sports
sport biomechanics
performance analysis
sport training
strength
new technologies

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 6038 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unilateral Flywheel Training Enhances Eccentric Braking Capacity, Change-of-Direction Performance, and Match Acceleration–Deceleration in Soccer Players

by Yue Dou, Wei Zhang, Hengquan Xu, Xinping Lyu, Yaqing Wang, Jiyao Zhang, Jiarong Lv, Yaotong Li, Yujie Hu, Bo Zhang and Dingmeng Ren

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(4), 2134; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16042134 - 22 Feb 2026

Viewed by 861

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined whether 8 weeks of unilateral flywheel resistance training (FRT) enhances eccentric neuromuscular characteristics and change-of-direction (COD) performance in male soccer players, and whether these adaptations transfer to sport-specific dribbling and match-play demands. Methods: Twenty-four male soccer players were randomized to a unilateral flywheel training group (EXT, n = 12) or a traditional resistance training control group (CON, n = 12). Both groups completed unilateral lower-limb strength training twice weekly for 8 weeks. Eccentric knee extensor and flexor peak torque (60°·s⁻¹), eccentric-to-concentric (E:C) ratio, and inter-limb asymmetry were assessed using isokinetic testing. Performance measures included a 10 m sprint, modified 505, COD deficit, a dribbling-based COD test (AFL), and GPS-derived high-intensity acceleration and deceleration metrics during matches. Results: Compared with CON, the EXT group showed greater increases in knee extensor (+0.54 Nm·kg⁻¹) and flexor (+0.46 Nm·kg⁻¹) eccentric peak torque, a higher E:C ratio, and reduced inter-limb asymmetry (all p < 0.05). While 10 m sprint performance remained unchanged, EXT improved modified 505 performance and reduced COD deficits (up to −0.06 s). In addition, AFL completion time decreased and match-play high-intensity acceleration and deceleration events increased in EXT compared with CON (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Unilateral FRT effectively enhances eccentric braking-related capacity and COD efficiency, with clear transfer to soccer-specific technical performance and high-intensity match-play demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports)

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17 pages, 1156 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sprint Cycling Interval Training Improves Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance—Comparison with Aerobic Interval Training in Physically Active Men

by Aleksander Drwal and Marcin Maciejczyk

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(3), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16031373 - 29 Jan 2026

Viewed by 918

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of sprint interval training (SIT) on anaerobic and aerobic performance in young physically active men, as assessed by maximal power (Pmax), maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), and the second ventilatory threshold (VT2). The data obtained were presented against the background of the effects of aerobic interval training. Participants (n = 45) aged 19–27 years were recruited into three groups of 15 participants each. The first group performed SIT, the second performed aerobic interval training (AIT), and the third group was without any intervention (control—CON). In each study group, participants performed somatic measurements twice (before and after the exercise intervention), the Wingate test (assessing peak anaerobic power (PP)), and a graded exercise test assessing aerobic performance. The training intervention in the SIT and AIT groups lasted 6 weeks, with three training sessions per week. The duration of a single session in AIT was constant throughout the intervention and lasted 60 min, while in SIT it lasted 17 min (first session), and the longest training session lasted 30 min. Training in the SIT group resulted in a significant increase in absolute anaerobic peak power (p < 0.001, ES = 0.36), while no significant change in PP was observed after AIT (p = 0.13, ES = 0.24). Both training protocols (SIT and AIT) significantly improved VO₂max (p = 0.03, ES = 0.39 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.55, respectively) and absolute Pmax (p < 0.001, ES = 0.68 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.36). Only in the AIT group were statistically significant changes related to VT2 observed: after training, oxygen uptake at VT2 increased significantly (p = 0.04, ES = 0.64). The SIT protocol improved both aerobic (VO₂max) and anaerobic (PP) performance, but did not affect the VT2 level. The data indicate that SIT can be used for training in sports disciplines requiring aerobic and anaerobic performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports)

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12 pages, 926 KB

Open AccessArticle

Are We Really Training at the Desired Intensity? Concurrent Validity of 16 Commercial Photoplethysmography-Based Heart Rate Monitors

by Pablo Oropesa, Alejandro Sánchez-Pay, Elena Conesa-Ros, Antonino Bianco, Jesús J. Ruiz-Navarro and Alejandro Martínez-Cava

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16010126 - 22 Dec 2025

Viewed by 1267

Abstract

The validity and accuracy of photoplethysmography (PPG)-based wearable heart rate (HR) monitors remain debatable. This study aimed to determine the concurrent validity of HR records from a wide range of contemporary PPG monitors across the full spectrum of exercise intensities and running conditions. Ten well-trained male endurance athletes performed several incremental maximal aerobic (IMA) tests and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions while wearing a Polar H9 chest strap, as the reference criterion; 16 PPG-based heart rate monitors were tested (Amazfit Fit5; Apple Ultra and SE; Garmin 35, 45, 235, and 935; Polar M200, M430, OH1, Vantage M, Vantage V, Vantage V3, and Verity Sense; Galaxy Watch 5, Suunto 3 Fitness). The results showed excellent ICC (>0.90) versus the reference device across IMA and HIIT tests. Overall, the ICC decreased, and magnitudes of error increased (BIAS, SEM, and CV) as the intensity increased. Moreover, lower ICC values and greater BIAS, SEM, and CV were observed during the HIIT compared to the IMA test. Nevertheless, notable differences between devices were observed in magnitude of errors, accuracy, data loss, and read failures. In conclusion, PPG-based HR monitor validity is device-dependent and therefore exercise data from running training and competitions should be interpreted with caution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports)

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17 pages, 1837 KB

Open AccessArticle

The (Rocky) Road to the Olympic Games: A Longitudinal Case Study on the Preparation, Monitoring, and Training of an Elite Weightlifter

by Shyam Chavda

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9373; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179373 - 26 Aug 2025

Viewed by 2283

Abstract

This case study provides a comprehensive, longitudinal analysis of an elite weightlifter’s performance, neuromuscular ability, and barbell kinematics over a 2.9-year period in preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Monitoring of training load, weightlifting performance, and measures of force production were conducted periodically throughout the lead up to the Olympic Games. Data were analyzed utilizing upper and lower tail standard deviations between time points. Key findings show performance improvements in 2019, with notable gains in the capacity to express higher forces, as measured by the isometric mid-thigh pull and countermovement jump. COVID-19 led to a decrease in training intensity (81 ± 6% to 75 ± 6% 1RM), which subsequently resulted in reduced performance (360 kg to 340 kg total). Following the pandemic, training intensity increased (75 ± 6% to 84 ± 4%), particularly during the taper phase, which positively impacted peak barbell vertical velocity (1.87 ± 0.01 vs. 1.94 ± 0.01 m.s⁻¹). COVID-19 necessitated a shift towards General Physical Preparedness, reflecting the challenge of limited training resources. The tapering strategies, involving volume reduction and increased intensity, were in line with established weightlifting practices. This study highlights the importance of adaptability in supporting elite athletes, emphasizing the need for flexible monitoring strategies during periods of disruption, whilst maintaining some ability to objectively identify meaningful changes in physical preparedness. Findings from this case study suggest that tailored adjustments to training load were critical in enhancing performance. Therefore, adopting pragmatic approaches, such as modifying training relative to external constraints and stressors with a holistic approach to monitoring, can help optimize performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports)

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16 pages, 667 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strength Training vs. Aerobic Interval Training: Effects on Anaerobic Capacity, Aerobic Power and Second Ventilatory Threshold in Men

by Aleksander Drwal and Marcin Maciejczyk

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7953; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147953 - 17 Jul 2025

Viewed by 4172

Abstract

The purpose of this non-randomized study was to determine the effect of strength training and aerobic interval training on the anaerobic and aerobic power and endurance of young men (assessed by determination of the second ventilatory threshold (VT2)) in non-trained men. Participants (n = 45) were recruited into three groups of 15 each. The first group performed strength training (ST), the second performed aerobic interval training (AIT), and the third group was the control group (CON). In each group, somatic measurements and tests of aerobic (graded test with VT2 determination) and anaerobic capacity (Wingate test) were performed twice (before and after the exercise intervention in the training groups). In the graded test, the level of maximal load (Pmax), maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) and intensity and oxygen uptake at VT2 were determined. In the Wingate test, peak power (PP) and mean power (MP) were determined. The exercise intervention in the ST and AIT groups lasted 6 weeks, with three workouts per week. Training in the ST and AIT groups resulted in significant increase in absolute Pmax (p < 0.001, ES = 0.52 and p < 0.05, ES = 0.36), VO₂max (p < 0.001, ES = 0.50 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.55) in the participants. Only AIT was significantly effective in improving oxygen uptake at VT2 (p < 0.04, ES = 0.64), and ST in improving PP. Strength training can be an effective training method in training aerobic and anaerobic capacity (significantly increases Pmax, VO₂max, and PP), while it does not significantly affect work intensity at VT2. Our results suggest that, particularly in anaerobic–aerobic sports, strength training may be a training method that can simultaneously improve both anaerobic power and maximal oxygen uptake. It can also complement endurance training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Biomechanics and Sports)

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