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Special Issues
Physical Activity and Human Health
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Physical Activity and Human Health

A special issue of European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education (ISSN 2254-9625).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 38621

Special Issue Editor

Dr. José Carmelo Adsuar

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Promoting a Healthy Society (PHeSo) Research Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
Interests: global health; physical and sports activities as a strategy to promote a healthy society; physical activity interventions; exercise training physical exercise; physical health; assessment of physical capacity; health, quality of life in groups of subjects and active lifestyle (elderly; children, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson, etc.); balance and muscle strength; rehabilitation; osteoporosis; fall prevention; validity and reliability of physical fitness testing; active tourism; outdoor behavioral healthcare; wilderness therapy; forest bathing; shinrin-yoku; Buddhist walking
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Physical activity has been shown to contribute to the improvement and maintenance of human health. However, further research is needed to improve the level of evidence available and to make recommendations based on scientific evidence.

According to the WHO, one of the seven principles of “The Draft Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030 in Brief” (https://www.who.int/ncds/governance/who-discussion-paper-gappa-9april2018.pdf?ua=1) is evidence-based practice. For this it is essential to have studies of high methodological quality that are published in scientific journals. This Special Issue on physical activity and health will contribute to this purpose.

This Special Issue aims to present research findings from health, sport sciences, and other professionals in relation to physical activity and health.

This Special Issue welcomes manuscripts on the relationship between physical activity, exercise or sport and health, along with the underlying mechanisms. The following paper formats are accepted: study protocols, longitudinal studies, cross-sectional studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses.

Topics of interest include:

  • Physical activity, exercise or sport and health;
  • Active tourism or active recreation and health;
  • Wilderness therapy and health;
  • Outdoor exercise and health;
  • Blue gym or green gym and health
  • Forest bathing or shinrin-yoku and health.

Dr. José Carmelo Adsuar
Guest Editor

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. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 1400 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

  • physical activity
  • exercise
  • sport
  • active tourism
  • active recreation
  • outdoor behavioral healthcare
  • wilderness therapy
  • forest bathing
  • shinrin-yoku
  • health
  • health-related quality of life

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 339 KiB  
Article
Program Quality and Developmental Outcomes Related to Youth Volleyball in Ethiopia: Assessing Relationships and Variations
by Abdulaziz Mussema, Tefera Tadesse and Zelalem Melkamu
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2021, 11(4), 1388-1405; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe11040100 - 8 Nov 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3026
Abstract
This study aims to assess program quality and developmental outcomes of a youth volleyball project in one of the regional states in Ethiopia, and further examine variations between groups across gender and project site zones. We applied a cross-sectional survey design, collecting quantitative [...] Read more.
This study aims to assess program quality and developmental outcomes of a youth volleyball project in one of the regional states in Ethiopia, and further examine variations between groups across gender and project site zones. We applied a cross-sectional survey design, collecting quantitative data from youth volleyball players (n = 215) with a mean age of 16.18 years (SD = 0.69) through a self-reported questionnaire. The results indicated that young players’ perceptions did not vary significantly across gender, except for the mean score of the perceived experience variable for girls (M = 2.68, SD = 0.318) was significantly higher than the mean score of boys (M = 2.58, SD = 0.258). One-way (project site zone) analyses of variance (ANOVAs) identified that youth volleyball projects in the central zone were consistently rated higher than those in the western zone, except for the current practice rating. Moreover, correlation analysis results indicated the presence of a significant relationship, both within and between program quality and developmental outcome variables. Furthermore, the results of regression analysis indicated that the program quality variables together predicted each of the developmental outcomes, accounting for 18.9% to 31.7% of the variances. It is concluded that the quality of the youth volleyball program in Ethiopia varies considerably across the project site zones and the program quality variables significantly relate to the developmental outcomes measured with differential effects. The data from this study reveals several practical applications for Ethiopia and beyond in terms of guiding youth volleyball projects. Moreover, the findings of the study showed that youth sport and the manner in which it is structured and delivered to youth players influences the attainment of positive developmental outcomes. These results suggest that contextual differences really do have an effect on the quality of youth sport program processes and developmental outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
9 pages, 303 KiB  
Article
Associations between Personality Traits and Basal Cortisol Responses in Sailing Athletes
by Pierpaolo Limone, Maria Sinatra, Flavio Ceglie and Lucia Monacis
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2021, 11(3), 804-812; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe11030058 - 24 Jul 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2526
Abstract
There is a paucity of literature regarding the psycho-physiological profiles of sailors on board. This study aimed at providing empirical evidence on the individual differences between bowmen and helmsmen taking into account a biopsychological perspective. To this purpose, sailors’ profiles were examined by [...] Read more.
There is a paucity of literature regarding the psycho-physiological profiles of sailors on board. This study aimed at providing empirical evidence on the individual differences between bowmen and helmsmen taking into account a biopsychological perspective. To this purpose, sailors’ profiles were examined by focusing on the association between personality traits and basal cortisol. The sample was composed of 104 athletes (Mage = 21.32, SD = 0.098; F = 35%), who fulfilled a self-reported questionnaire including a socio-demographic section and the Big Five questionnaire. Cortisol samples were collected on the day before the competition, within 30 min after awakening. T-test analysis showed significant differences on cortisol levels: bowmen obtained higher levels on cortisol responses compared to helmsmen. No differences emerged on personality traits between athletes’ roles. Bivariate associations showed positive associations of cortisol responses with extraversion and conscientiousness in bowmen, whereas no significant associations of cortisol with personality traits were found in helmsmen. Regression analyses confirmed that sex and extraversion predicted higher level of cortisol responses. Results were discussed in terms of a bio-psychosocial theoretical approach and provided findings on the relationships between personality trait and the hypothalamus-pituitary adrenal (HPA) system in dinghy sailors. Suggestions for a more suitable selection of sailor roles were given to coaches in order to improve athletes’ performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
14 pages, 1952 KiB  
Article
Exploring Two Pandemics in Academic Arena: Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors Profile of University Students in Bangladesh
by Khalidur Rahman, Matteo Vandoni, Boris Cheval, Md Asaduzzaman, Mohammad Nayeem Hasan and Sabbir Tahmidur Rahman
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2021, 11(2), 358-371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe11020027 - 16 Apr 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4197
Abstract
The overlay of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pandemic of physical inactivity has become a great concern. Both types of pandemics can decrease the health protection capacity and consequently increase complexity in human lives. This cross-sectional study intended to examine changes in physical [...] Read more.
The overlay of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pandemic of physical inactivity has become a great concern. Both types of pandemics can decrease the health protection capacity and consequently increase complexity in human lives. This cross-sectional study intended to examine changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic among university students in a second-tier city of Bangladesh. Two hundred and nine students responded to an online questionnaire administered via Google Survey. In addition to descriptive statistics, parametric and non-parametric tests for comparing means, medians and distributions were used to assess differences in activity traits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results show that the occurrence of COVID-19 has significantly reduced the practice of walking and physical activities among the students. They are commonly motivated by introjected regulation. Father’s occupation and the type of family of a student have significant influences on the total physical activity in either situation. Bangladeshi university students have, particularly, been perceived as not generally used to vigorous physical activities. They are inactive compared to students from other countries. Thus, the public health policymakers and the corresponding authority should inspire the students to be more physically active by implementing different strategies such as increasing bicycling and walking facilities on the campus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
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Review

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14 pages, 719 KiB  
Review
A Systematic Review of the Sport Psychology Mixed Martial Arts Literature: Replication and Extension
by Sydney Cooper and Marc Lochbaum
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2022, 12(2), 77-90; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe12020007 - 19 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7184
Abstract
MMA is a global sport with a growing body of psychological literature. Our main objective was to replicate and extend a past review concerning the sport psychology literature with MMA participants. We conducted our electronic search in EBSCO with the following databases: SPORTDiscus, [...] Read more.
MMA is a global sport with a growing body of psychological literature. Our main objective was to replicate and extend a past review concerning the sport psychology literature with MMA participants. We conducted our electronic search in EBSCO with the following databases: SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection. Our eligibility criteria were research articles (a) found in academic journals, (b) with MMA participants, and (c) at least one topic found in sport psychology literature. After conducting a PRISMA-guided search, 16 studies met our inclusion criteria. The studies spanned from 2011 to 2021, with 795 MMA participants from the USA (n = 7), Brazil (n = 4), and one study each from Czechia, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. From studies reporting mean ages, MMA participants were in their mid-20s (M = 26.55 ± 2.38 years of age). The results section includes risk of bias ratings across five areas (i.e., subject selection, sample’s MMA background, participant anonymity, data collection procedures, and questionnaire or qualitative theme reporting). More risk of bias concerns resulted with the quantitative than qualitative articles. To best represent the studies, we presented separate results tables with many specifics for both the quantitative (i.e., topic, main analysis, time frame, summary of results, and meaningfulness) and qualitative studies (topic, main analysis, time frame, and main themes). The included studies covered a variety of historic and meta-analyzed topics such as confidence, mood, motivations, and social facilitation. Based on our review, we discussed the literature strengths and limitations, and suggested future research directions. Last, we provided practical points for both MMA participants and their trainers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
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16 pages, 428 KiB  
Review
Effects of Physical Activity, Exercise and Sport on Executive Function in Young People with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review
by Felipe Montalva-Valenzuela, Oscar Andrades-Ramírez and Antonio Castillo-Paredes
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2022, 12(1), 61-76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe12010006 - 14 Jan 2022
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 12548
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that negatively affects the inattention, disorganization, and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity in children and adolescents who suffer from it, included cases being reported that continue into adulthood. This disorder impairs social, academic, emotional, psychological, and health system [...] Read more.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that negatively affects the inattention, disorganization, and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity in children and adolescents who suffer from it, included cases being reported that continue into adulthood. This disorder impairs social, academic, emotional, psychological, and health system functioning due to its high cost of treatment. The present systematic review aims to analyze the effects of physical activity, exercise, and sports on the executive function in children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD through the scientific literature. The results show that the practice of physical activity, exercise, or sport produces improvements in executive function in children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD, mainly through aerobic exercise. A 20 min session of physical activity, sport, or exercise leads to improvements in executive functions in children and adolescents with ADHD. It can be concluded that the practice of physical activity, exercise, and sport generate improvements on executive functions in children and adolescents with ADHD, mainly through aerobic exercise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
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14 pages, 4234 KiB  
Review
Impact of Different Types of Physical Activity in Green Urban Space on Adult Health and Behaviors: A Systematic Review
by Alessia Grigoletto, Mario Mauro, Pasqualino Maietta Latessa, Vincenzo Iannuzzi, Davide Gori, Francesco Campa, Gianpiero Greco and Stefania Toselli
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2021, 11(1), 263-275; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe11010020 - 4 Mar 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7021
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to investigate the type of physical activity carried out in green urban spaces by the adult population and to value its impact on the population’s health. Additionally, another purpose was to examine if the presence of outdoor gyms in [...] Read more.
This systematic review aimed to investigate the type of physical activity carried out in green urban spaces by the adult population and to value its impact on the population’s health. Additionally, another purpose was to examine if the presence of outdoor gyms in green urban spaces can promote participation in physical activity among adults. Searches of electronic databases, with no time restrictions and up to June 2020, resulted in 10 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. A quantitative assessment is reported as effect size. Many people practiced walking activity as a workout, which showed improvements in health. Walking is the most popular type of training due to its easy accessibility and it not requiring equipment or special skills. Outdoor fitness equipment has been installed in an increasing number of parks and has become very popular worldwide. Further, outdoor fitness equipment provides free access to fitness training and seems to promote physical activity in healthy adults. However, other studies about outdoor fitness equipment efficiency are needed. People living near to equipped areas are more likely to perform outdoor fitness than those who live further away. The most common training programs performed in green urban spaces included exercises with free and easy access, able to promote physical health and perception. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Human Health)
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