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12 pages, 353 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pairwise Comparison of Effects of Linear vs. Change of Direction Short Bout Sprint Intervals on Physical Performance of Youth Male Soccer Players

by Peter Sagat

Sports 2026, 14(2), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14020044 - 26 Jan 2026

Viewed by 345

Abstract

Our study aimed to examine and compare the effects of 12-week repeated sprint intervals with change of direction and linear sprint intervals on physical performance in young soccer players. In this randomized, parallel three-group study, we included 60 male soccer players assigned to [...] Read more.

Our study aimed to examine and compare the effects of 12-week repeated sprint intervals with change of direction and linear sprint intervals on physical performance in young soccer players. In this randomized, parallel three-group study, we included 60 male soccer players assigned to (i) a sprint interval with change of direction group (RS–CoD; n = 20); (ii) a linear sprint interval group (RS–LiN; n = 20); and (iii) a soccer group (SOC; n = 20). Physical performance included explosive power (countermovement jump [CMJ] and squat jump [SJ]), agility (T505, 93,639, 20Y), speed (sprints over 5 m, 10 m and 20 m), anaerobic capacity (the Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test [RAST]) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Over the 12 weeks, the RS–CoD group displayed significantly beneficial effects in the 93639 test (effect size [ES] = 0.42), compared to the RS–LiN (ES = 0.18) and SOC (ES = 0.12) groups. The RS–CoD group also had larger improvements in their SJ (ES = 0.87; RS–LiN 0.37; SOC 0.18), CMJ (ES = 0.56; RS–LiN 0.39; SOC 0.43), 20Y test (ES = 1.05; RS–LiN 0.67; SOC 0.56) and sprints at 5 m (ES = 1.18; RS–LiN 0.50; SOC 0.21) and 20 m (ES = 1.43; RS–LiN 0.71; SOC 0.25). The RS–CoD group displayed more beneficial improvements, making the CoD interval sprints effective training stimuli. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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13 pages, 2216 KB

Open AccessArticle

Warming Up for Basketball: Comparing Traditional vs. Small-Sided Game Approaches in Youth Players

by Pierpaolo Sansone, Massimiliano Vanacore, Jorge Lorenzo-Calvo, Álvaro Bustamante-Sánchez, Alejandro Vaquera and Daniele Conte

Sports 2025, 13(12), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13120452 - 15 Dec 2025

Viewed by 725

Abstract

This study compared the external [movement load (ML)] and internal [rating of perceived exertion (RPE), mean and peak heart rate (HRmean, HRpeak)] loads, performance and enjoyment between time-matched (~12 min) traditional (TRAD) and small-sided game (SSG) warm-ups in youth basketball players. Using a [...] Read more.

This study compared the external [movement load (ML)] and internal [rating of perceived exertion (RPE), mean and peak heart rate (HRmean, HRpeak)] loads, performance and enjoyment between time-matched (~12 min) traditional (TRAD) and small-sided game (SSG) warm-ups in youth basketball players. Using a counterbalanced crossover design, 24 male players (16.0 ± 0.1 years) performed both warm-up types after reporting fatigue (ROF) and completing an 8 min standardized pre-warm-up. Before and after each warm-up, players completed 20 m sprint and countermovement jump (CMJ) tests; enjoyment (ENJ) was assessed post-warm-up. No significant differences were found between warm-ups for ROF (p = 0.053), RPE (p = 0.259), or HRmean (p = 0.053). However, SSG induced a higher HRpeak than TRAD (p = 0.001), while ML was greater in TRAD (p < 0.001). No interaction, time effect, or typology effect emerged for performance in sprinting and change of direction, although CMJ was higher after TRAD (p = 0.047). Enjoyment did not differ significantly (p = 0.066), although with a large effect size (r = 0.612). The greater ML in TRAD may reflect more dynamic basketball actions compared with SSG, which emphasized static tasks (e.g., screening, boxing out) yet produced higher HRpeak. Coaches may consider SSG warm-ups to replicate game-specific conditions while controlling the external load and maintaining adequate physiological preparation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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18 pages, 531 KB

Open AccessArticle

Applied Research on the Impact of a Neuromotor Development Program on the Lower Limb Strength of Junior Athletes in Greco-Roman Wrestling

by Florentin Vasilescu, Nicoleta Leonte, Cristiana Maria Porfireanu and Virgil Tudor

Sports 2025, 13(12), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13120428 - 3 Dec 2025

Viewed by 555

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of a structured motor intervention program on the development of lower limb strength in junior athletes practicing Greco-Roman wrestling. Recognizing the crucial role of explosive strength in performing technical and decisive actions during combat, the research introduces a [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of a structured motor intervention program on the development of lower limb strength in junior athletes practicing Greco-Roman wrestling. Recognizing the crucial role of explosive strength in performing technical and decisive actions during combat, the research introduces a progressive, applied training protocol tailored to the neuromotor development of children aged 10 to 12 years (control group: M = 11.14, SD = 1.10; experimental group: M = 11.07, SD = 0.83). Conducted over 17 months, the study involved two groups of 14 registered wrestlers each from School Sports Club No. 5 in Bucharest. The experimental group participated in a complementary motor training program emphasizing plyometric drills, bodyweight strength exercises, and wrestling-specific movements, while the control group continued with the standard training routine. The intervention’s impact was evaluated using the OptoJump Next system, a biomechanical analysis tool measuring key indicators of explosive strength—jump height, ground contact time, flight time, and reactive strength index (RSI)—through the single-leg counter-movement jump (CMJ) test. Comparative analysis of pre- and post-intervention results showed significant improvements in neuromotor performance among athletes in the experimental group, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. This research thus provides a reproducible, evidence-based intervention model with direct applicability in optimizing the training of young Greco-Roman wrestlers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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14 pages, 1408 KB

Open AccessArticle

Application of the Vienna Test System to Measure Training-Induced Changes in Choice Reaction Time in U20 Fencers: A 12-Week Training Program Pilot Study

by Lukass Edmunds Teteris, Sergejs Saulite, Renars Licis, Mara Greve and Behnam Boobani

Sports 2025, 13(11), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13110400 - 7 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1521

Abstract

This pilot study examined the effects of a 12-week reaction training program on physical and cognitive performance (choice reaction) in U20 Latvian fencers. Five qualified right-handed male fencers (aged 14.8–18.6 years) completed the Vienna Test System choice reaction task at baseline and after [...] Read more.

This pilot study examined the effects of a 12-week reaction training program on physical and cognitive performance (choice reaction) in U20 Latvian fencers. Five qualified right-handed male fencers (aged 14.8–18.6 years) completed the Vienna Test System choice reaction task at baseline and after 12 weeks while cycling through five heart rate zones (1–5). Reaction speed (RS), motor speed (MS), choice reaction time (CR), and heart rate (HR) were recorded. Paired-sample t-tests indicated no significant group-level changes: RS (t = 1.46, p = 0.21, d = 0.65, 95% CI [−36.92, 118.92]), MS (t = 2.37, p = 0.07, d = 1.06, 95% CI [−3.14, 40.34]), CR (t = 1.70, p = 0.16, d = 0.76, 95% CI [−37.30, 156.26]), and HR (t = −2.69, p = 0.054, d = −1.20, 95% CI [−12.53, 0.17]). Individual responses revealed that three athletes improved CR in low- to moderate-intensity zones (−12.66% to −27.18%), whereas heart rate increased modestly (1.35% to 9.60%). Given the critical age for developing choice reaction, these findings should be considered as preliminary and exploratory, offering initial insights into how training might influence cognitive performance in young fencers and demonstrating that responses can differ across heart rate zones and among individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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24 pages, 1820 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Core Training and Mobility Training Effects on Basketball Athletic Performance in Young Players: A Comparative Experimental Study

by Alessandra Amato, Cristina Cortis, Matteo Tropea, Marco Politi, Andrea Fusco and Giuseppe Musumeci

Sports 2025, 13(11), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13110398 - 6 Nov 2025

Viewed by 3804

Abstract

This study compared the effects of core (CTG) or mobility training (MTG) on basketball-specific skills in youth players, focusing on dynamic balance. Both training modalities have a recognized role in enhancing performance, but few studies have examined their impact on this population. Thirty-one [...] Read more.

This study compared the effects of core (CTG) or mobility training (MTG) on basketball-specific skills in youth players, focusing on dynamic balance. Both training modalities have a recognized role in enhancing performance, but few studies have examined their impact on this population. Thirty-one young (age 14.71 ± 2.27 years) males were assigned to an 8-week CTG or MTG. Overhead Squat, Y-Balance Test, Agility T-Test, Sit-and-Reach, Functional Hop Tests, and the Balance Error Scoring System were assessed before (pre) and after (post) the intervention for both dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) limbs. Both groups improved the postero-lateral direction of the Y-Balance Test for the D (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = −8.108 [−15.620, −0.595], p = 0.035; MTG, MD [95% CIs] = −15.234 [−23.512, −6.956], p = 0.024) and ND (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = −9.110 [−16.150, −2.070], p = 0.013; MTG MD [95% CIs] = −13.899 [−21.657, −6.141], p = 0.001) limb and the medial reach for D (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = −17.279 [−26.364, −8.194], p = 0.001; MTG, MD [95% CIs] = −22.050 [−32.061, −12.039], p = 0.03) and ND (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = −9.309 [−17.093, −1.526], p = 0.021; MTG, MD [95% CIs] = −13.614 [−22.190, −5.037], p = 0.003), the Overhead Squat Test (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = −3.059 [−3.797, −2.321], p = 0.001; MTG, MD [95% CIs] = −3.643 [−4.456, −2.830], p = 0.001), and Agility T-Test (CTG, MD [95% CIs] = 0.572 [0.072, 1.073], p = 0.026; MTG, MD [95% CIs] = 0.696 [0.145, 1.248], p = 0.024) skills. Only CTG showed a significant improvement (MD [95% CIs] = −8.294 [−16.162, −0.426], p = 0.04) in single-leg hop performance for the ND limb. No significant improvements were observed in static balance or flexibility. No time × group effect was found. Both interventions improved key basketball-specific motor abilities and could be added to the basketball training session without adverse effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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13 pages, 927 KB

Open AccessArticle

Does Birth Month Matter? Effects of Birth Subgroupings on Motor Performance and Ball-Involving Tests in a Youth Soccer Academy

by Lorenzo Marcelli, Fioretta Silvestri, Gianluca Di Pinto, Andrea Colombo, Federica Marzoli, Maria Chiara Gallotta, Laura Guidetti, Fabrizio Perroni and Davide Curzi

Sports 2025, 13(11), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13110382 - 4 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1118

Abstract

Youth motor performance changes are not strictly linear during their sports career, and within-year birth timing may introduce relative age differences, known as the relative-age effect. In a cross-sectional study of 170 male young soccer players (8–12 years old), field tests were compared [...] Read more.

Youth motor performance changes are not strictly linear during their sports career, and within-year birth timing may introduce relative age differences, known as the relative-age effect. In a cross-sectional study of 170 male young soccer players (8–12 years old), field tests were compared between adjacent age groups and within each of them: countermovement jump (with and without arm swing); 15 m linear sprint and agility test with and without the ball. Non-parametric tests with post hoc comparisons revealed significant differences between consecutive birth years in physical skills, particularly between the youngest and oldest groups. Specifically, differences were noted in the jumping test between U12 and U11, and between U10 and U9. Additionally, linear sprint and agility tests showed significance in U13 versus U12 and U10 versus U9. Finally, dribbling skills mature later (in both tests, U13 v U12, U12 v U11; with the ball, U10 v U9). Differences were found within the groups based on the semester, but not the trimester of birth, confirming a progressive yet non-linear pattern and semester-level within-year differences. These findings suggest the key role of motor skills development trajectories in creating individualized training programs tailored to the needs of individual young soccer players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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11 pages, 512 KB

Open AccessArticle

Run-Based Tests Performed on an Indoor and Outdoor Surface Are Comparable in Adolescent Rugby League Players

by Michael A. Carron and Vincent J. Dalbo

Sports 2025, 13(10), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13100351 - 4 Oct 2025

Viewed by 601

Abstract

At non-professional levels of rugby league, run-based tests are commonly performed on outdoor turfed fields and on indoor multipurpose sport surfaces, and results are monitored to gauge player performance and progression. However, test–retest reliability has not been conducted on indoor surfaces in adolescent [...] Read more.

At non-professional levels of rugby league, run-based tests are commonly performed on outdoor turfed fields and on indoor multipurpose sport surfaces, and results are monitored to gauge player performance and progression. However, test–retest reliability has not been conducted on indoor surfaces in adolescent rugby league players, and no research has examined if results obtained on outdoor and indoor surfaces are comparable for practitioners. Adolescent, male, rugby league players (N = 15; age = 17.1 ± 0.7 years) completed a 20 m linear sprint test (10- and 20 m splits), 505-Agility Test, and Multistage Fitness Test (MSFT) weekly for three consecutive weeks. Absolute (coefficient of variation (CV)) and relative (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)) reliability of each run-based test performed on the indoor surface was quantified. Dependent t-tests, Hedges g, and 95% confidence intervals were used to examine if differences in performance occurred between indoor and outdoor surfaces. Effect size magnitudes were determined as Trivial: <0.20, Small: 0.20–0.49, Medium: 0.50–0.79, and Large: ≥0.80. All tests were considered reliable on the indoor surface (CV < 5.0%; ICCs = moderate-good) except for the 505-Agility Test (CV = 4.6–5.1%; ICCs = poor). Non-significant (p > 0.05), trivial differences were revealed between surface types for 10 (g = 0.15, 95% CI = −0.41 to 0.70) and 20 m (g = 0.06, 95% CI = −0.49 to 0.61) sprint tests, the 505-Agility Test (Right: g = −0.53, 95% CI = −1.12 to 0.06; Left: g = −0.40, 95% CI = −0.97 to 0.17), and the MSFT (g = 0.25, 95% CI = −0.31 to 0.81). The 10 and 20 m linear sprint test and MSFT have acceptable test–retest reliability on an indoor multipurpose sport surface, and practitioners may compare results of run-based tests obtained on an outdoor and indoor surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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12 pages, 423 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Criterion Validity of a Newly Developed Ballroom Aerobic Test (BAT) Protocol Against Objective Methods

by Tamara Despot and Davor Plavec

Sports 2025, 13(10), 337; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13100337 - 1 Oct 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 579

Abstract

Although laboratory testing to assess aerobic capacity has been a ‘gold standard’ in sports science, its high costs and time-consuming protocols may not be feasible for monitoring and tracking progress in limited conditions. In dancesport athletes, several field-based aerobic tests have been proposed, [...] Read more.

Although laboratory testing to assess aerobic capacity has been a ‘gold standard’ in sports science, its high costs and time-consuming protocols may not be feasible for monitoring and tracking progress in limited conditions. In dancesport athletes, several field-based aerobic tests have been proposed, but the majority of them have been developed for ballet or contemporary dancers at the individual level, while the data among dance couples engaging in standard dance styles is lacking. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to validate a newly developed Ballroom Aerobic Test (BAT) protocol against objective methods. Twelve standard dancesport couples (age: 20.4 ± 3.9 years; height: 172.1 ± 8.7 cm; weight: 60.1 ± 9.4 kg) with 8.2 ± 3.4 years of training and competing experience participated in this study. Ventilatory and metabolic parameters were generated using the MetaMax^® 3B portable gas analyzer (the BAT), while the KF1 (an increase in speed by 0.5 km * h⁻¹ by every minute) and Bruce protocols were followed in laboratory-based settings on the running ergometer. Large to very large correlations were obtained between the BAT and KF1/Bruce protocols for the absolute maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max; r = 0.88 and 0.87) and relative VO₂max (r = 0.88 and 0.85), respiratory exchange ratio (RER; r = 0.78 and 0.76), expiratory ventilation (VE; r = 0.86 and 0.79), tidal volume (VT; r = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.57–0.87; p < 0.001), ventilatory equivalent for O₂ (VE/VO₂; r = 0.81 and 0.80) and CO₂ (VE/VCO₂; r = 0.78 and 0.82), and dead space (VD/VT; r = 0.70 and 0.74). The Bland–Altman plots indicated no systematic and proportional biases between the BAT and KF1 protocols (standard error of estimate; SEE = ± 3.36 mL * kg⁻¹ * min⁻¹) and the BAT and Bruce protocols (SEE = ± 3.75 mL * kg⁻¹ * min⁻¹). This study shows that the BAT exhibits satisfactory agreement properties against objective methods and is a valid dance protocol to accurately estimate aerobic capacity in dancesport athletes participating in standard dance styles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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14 pages, 782 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of After-School Basketball Program on Physical Fitness and Cardiometabolic Health in Prepubertal Boys

by Cristina Castro-Collado, Jose Manuel Jurado-Castro, Mercedes Gil-Campos, Belén Pastor-Villaescusa, Gracia María Quintana-Navarro and Francisco Jesús Llorente-Cantarero

Sports 2025, 13(9), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090291 - 28 Aug 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1961

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess changes in anthropometric measures, cardiometabolic markers, and physical fitness following a structured basketball training program in healthy prepubertal boys. Methods: The intervention consisted of a 6-week pre-season phase followed by a 32-week basketball training season conducted during [...] Read more.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess changes in anthropometric measures, cardiometabolic markers, and physical fitness following a structured basketball training program in healthy prepubertal boys. Methods: The intervention consisted of a 6-week pre-season phase followed by a 32-week basketball training season conducted during the academic year. Training sessions were held three times per week at moderate to vigorous intensity, along with a weekly match. The participants were assessed at baseline, 6, 9, and 12 months. A reference group was evaluated at baseline for comparison. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT07007624). Results: Seventeen boys completed the program. Anthropometric assessments revealed increases in fat-free mass in the trunk and lower limbs, along with maintenance of an adequate BMI. After nine months, participants in the intervention showed significant improvements in fitness tests, including a 45% increase in Course Navette performance (p < 0.001), a 21% increase in horizontal jump performance (p = 0.001), and a 13% increase in abdominal test performance (p < 0.001). Conclusion: These findings suggest that a structured, school-based basketball program may enhance physical fitness and support healthy body composition maintenance in healthy-weight prepubertal boys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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13 pages, 477 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of a Congested Match Schedule on Internal Load, Recovery, Well-Being, and Enjoyment in U16 Youth Water Polo Players

by Andrea Perazzetti, Arben Kaçurri, Masar Gjaka, Marco Pernigoni, Corrado Lupo and Antonio Tessitore

Sports 2025, 13(9), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090286 - 25 Aug 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1670

Abstract

This study aimed to monitor internal load, well-being, and recovery status in U16 male water polo players during a congested competitive period. Fourteen athletes from an Italian club played 12 matches (seven friendly, five official) over 7 days. The internal match load was [...] Read more.

This study aimed to monitor internal load, well-being, and recovery status in U16 male water polo players during a congested competitive period. Fourteen athletes from an Italian club played 12 matches (seven friendly, five official) over 7 days. The internal match load was measured using the session-RPE method (s-RPE). Perceived enjoyment was measured with the Enjoyment Likert Scale (ENJ), while recovery and well-being were evaluated using the Perceived Recovery Scale (PRS) and the Hooper Index (HI), respectively. No significant main effects were found on s-RPE, PRS, and HI considering friendly and official matches. However, ENJ was significantly higher during official matches (p < 0.005). PRS values were significantly affected by daytime matches (p < 0.005), with better perceived recovery reported for morning matches. Linear mixed model analysis revealed significant associations between s-RPE and HI (p = 0.001), the fatigue item (p = 0.001), and the PRS (p = 0.004). These results suggest that as internal load increases, players experience higher fatigue and report lower recovery and well-being scores. Employing simple, non-invasive tools like the RPE, PRS, and HI can help coaches and support staff to identify early signs of overtraining or insufficient recovery, allowing for more individualized load management and injury prevention in youth water polo athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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14 pages, 1466 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Specific Professional Training in Male Elite Adolescent Team Handball Players

by Wagner Herbert, Radic Vanja and Hinz Matthias

Sports 2025, 13(6), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13060193 - 19 Jun 2025

Viewed by 2459

Abstract

Professional training in elite team handball academies is key to developing top players, yet its direct impact on physical performance remains unclear. This study aimed to (1) provide professional training to elite adolescent players and (2) assess performance improvements using a team handball-specific [...] Read more.

Professional training in elite team handball academies is key to developing top players, yet its direct impact on physical performance remains unclear. This study aimed to (1) provide professional training to elite adolescent players and (2) assess performance improvements using a team handball-specific test. Thirty elite male players (six goalkeepers, 24 field players) participated in an 11-week program, with nine under-19 (17.2 ± 1.3 years) and nine under-17 (15.6 ± 0.9 years) field players completing at least 80% of sessions. All underwent pre- and post-testing using the game-based performance test. A two-way ANOVA analyzed differences between tests and age groups as well as playing positions. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) were found in defense and offense time and body weight for both groups. Under-17 players also showed a significant increase in peak oxygen uptake (+9%), ball velocity (+7%), and jump height (+20%). Agility in defense and offense improved in under-19 (+3%) and under-17 (+6%) players, aligning with training goals. Positional differences were observed between backcourt players and wings (p < 0.01) in the ball velocity, while all players showed improvements in both defense and offense performance. We suggest that professional and targeted specific training at this age has a significant impact on the long-term development of adolescent team handball players and is the basis for a professional handball career. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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14 pages, 2259 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological Correspondence Between Different Indexes of High-Intensity Endurance Exercise in Young Male Runners

by Danilo A. Massini, Renato A. C. Caritá, Tiago A. F. Almeida, Anderson G. Macedo, Víctor Hernández-Beltrán, José M. Gamonales, Mário C. Espada and Dalton M. Pessôa Filho

Sports 2025, 13(6), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13060167 - 29 May 2025

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Abstract

Critical speed (CS), the respiratory compensation point (RCP), and the midpoint between gas exchange threshold and maxial oxygen uptake (VO_2max) (i.e., 50%Δ) have been considered indexes able to demarcate the boundary between the heavy and severe exercise domains. However, the agreement [...] Read more.

Critical speed (CS), the respiratory compensation point (RCP), and the midpoint between gas exchange threshold and maxial oxygen uptake (VO_2max) (i.e., 50%Δ) have been considered indexes able to demarcate the boundary between the heavy and severe exercise domains. However, the agreement between these indexes—and therefore the validity of using them reciprocally—remains to be reported in running. The current study analyzed the agreement between RCP, 50%Δ, and CS. Twelve young runners performed an incremental test to assess VO_2max, RCP, and 50%Δ, with CS estimated by the linear model of time-limited trials at 90, 95, and 110% of the speed corresponding to VO₂max. One-way ANOVA showed no differences when comparing VO₂ and running speed at CS vs. 50%Δ vs. RCP (47.5 ± 4.4 vs. 46.6 ± 4.4 vs. 47.8 ± 4.5 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹; and 13.9 ± 1.3 vs. 13.7 ± 1.3 vs. 14.0 ± 1.4 km∙h⁻¹; p > 0.05 for all comparisons). The bias for 50%Δ vs. CS was −0.82 ± 1.55 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹ and −0.23 ± 0.55 km∙h⁻¹, and for RCP vs. CS, it was 0.36 ± 1.21 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹ and 0.05 ± 0.46 km∙h⁻¹. Therefore, the agreement between RCP, 50%Δ, and CS in estimating VO₂ responses and running speed did not preclude their reciprocal similarity in exercise intensity, although the observed individual variability in physiological variables is a constraint on considering these indexes interchangeable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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11 pages, 914 KB

Open AccessArticle

Relationships Between Sport-Specific Anaerobic Tests, Interlimb Asymmetry, and Bilateral Deficit as Measured from Vertical Jump Performances in Highly Trained Taekwondo Athletes

by Ibrahim Ouergui, Slaheddine Delleli, Gennaro Apollaro, Hamdi Messaoudi, Rafael Lima Kons, Craig Alan Bridge, Hamdi Chtourou, Emerson Franchini, Emanuela Faelli and Luca Paolo Ardigò

Sports 2025, 13(4), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13040103 - 28 Mar 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2882

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of inter-limb asymmetry and bilateral indexes (BLIs) in power performance, assessed by squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ), on sport-specific anaerobic performance. Forty-eight taekwondo athletes (24 males and 24 females; mean ± SD, age: 19.8 ± [...] Read more.

The present study investigated the effect of inter-limb asymmetry and bilateral indexes (BLIs) in power performance, assessed by squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ), on sport-specific anaerobic performance. Forty-eight taekwondo athletes (24 males and 24 females; mean ± SD, age: 19.8 ± 2.1 years) performed randomly, in separate sessions, SJ and CMJ tests using the right, left, and both legs to determine the asymmetry and BLI, the 10 s Frequency Speed of Kick Test (FSKT_10s), and its multiple version (FSKT_mult). FSKT_10s was positively correlated with CMJ asymmetry (ρ = 0.299, p = 0.039, low) and SJ BLI (r = 0.596, p < 0.001, large), and negatively correlated with CMJ BLI (r = −0.472, p = 0.001, moderate). Similarly, FSKT_mult was positively correlated with SJ BLI (ρ = 0.632, p < 0.001, large), and negatively correlated with CMJ BLI (ρ = −0.532, p < 0.001, large). CMJ and SJ BLI explained 45.9% of the variance of the FSKT_10s performance, whilst they explained 55.7% of the variance of FSKT_mult performance. These results highlight the importance of managing both interlimb asymmetry and bilateral deficit indexes to achieve better performance by improving the strength of the non-dominant leg and using exercises that are performed bilaterally despite unilateral movements being predominant in taekwondo, which can potentially enhance the effectiveness in sport-specific actions Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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Open AccessBrief Report

Power–Load Relationship of Bench Press, Ballistic Bench Press, and Prone Bench Pull in International Medal-Winning Canoeists and Kayakers

by Oscar Crisafulli, Matteo Fortunati, Tiziano Gemelli, Massimiliano Febbi, Patrik Drid, Stefano Ramat and Giuseppe D’Antona

Sports 2025, 13(6), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13060191 - 19 Jun 2025

Viewed by 1458

Abstract

Paddler athletes use resistance training (RT) to optimize power output (PO) during competitions. Understanding the power–load relationship (P–Lr) is essential for effective RT prescription. Moreover, the push-to-pull ratio (PU/PR)—the one-repetition maximum (1RM) of a pulling exercise divided by the one of a pushing [...] Read more.

Paddler athletes use resistance training (RT) to optimize power output (PO) during competitions. Understanding the power–load relationship (P–Lr) is essential for effective RT prescription. Moreover, the push-to-pull ratio (PU/PR)—the one-repetition maximum (1RM) of a pulling exercise divided by the one of a pushing exercise—has been suggested as a metric associated with sprint kayak performance. This study aimed to describe P–Lr in three guided exercises (bench press (BP), ballistic bench press (BBP), and prone bench pull (PBP)), along with PU/PR in international-level canoeing and kayaking athletes. Nine male athletes (21.0 ± 1.5 years) were monitored during two sessions of an incremental testing protocol. Load ranged from 30 to 100 kg in BP, 30 to 95 kg in PBP, and 20 to 60 kg in BBP. Instantaneous displacement was measured using a linear position transducer, and PO was computed for each repetition and exercise. PU/PR was calculated upon PBP and BP. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to explore differences among exercises and relative load from 20% to 90% 1RM. PBP displayed a higher PO between 40% and 90% 1RM compared to BP and BBP), while no statistical difference was found between BP and BBP at any relative load. Additionally, mean PU/PR resulted 0.96. This study provides preliminary values regarding P–Lr and PU/PR in elite paddlers, which may assist in designing training programs for those targeting major competitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth)

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