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Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research

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A special issue of Sports (ISSN 2075-4663).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 March 2026 | Viewed by 6000

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Cristina Ioana Alexe

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Guest Editor

Department of Physical Education and Sports Performance, “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacău, 600115 Bacău, Romania
Interests: sport science; physical activity public health; physical education and sport; sport injuries; human performance

Dr. Dan Iulian Alexe

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Guest Editor

Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacău, 600115 Bacău, Romania
Interests: health promotions; sports science; physical education; human balance; rehabilitation
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Dear Colleagues,

Physical activity and its role in overall health will always remain key topics in scientific fields. Sports science, as a multidisciplinary field, explores the physiological, biomechanical and psychological aspects of physical activity and sport. Promoting health and preventing diseases through regular physical activity, carried out on the basis of scientific rigor and recommendations, will always be important in maintaining the health of the global population.

Today, experts from entire sectors, from different interdisciplinary fields, argue for the well-documented health benefits of regular physical activity, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity and mental health disorders) or the prophylaxis of well-being, especially improving mobility, flexibility, strength and cognitive functions, particularly in certain categories of the population.

Wearable technology, biomechanics and motion capture, genetics and personalized training, etc., are all becoming increasingly used in the modern era to monitor physical activity and health metrics, to understand movement patterns and how they help with prevention, improve human performance and support rehabilitation, to uncover the mechanisms by which exercise affects cellular health, muscle growth, energy systems and much more.

How applied research informs public health campaigns aimed at increasing physical activity in different populations and community sports programs, school physical education and workplace health initiatives and how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are used to predict training outcomes, optimize physical performance and monitor health status all can represent benchmarks for those who wish to further their studies and research in this Special Issue.

This Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how advances and applied research in sports science improve health.

Dr. Cristina Ioana Alexe
Dr. Dan Iulian Alexe
Guest Editors

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. Sports 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 1800 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

health through physical activity
applied research
innovation for health
sports

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 244 KB

Open AccessArticle

Correlation Between Physical Activity and Psychological Problems in Secondary School Students in Spain

by Pablo Pueyo Gutiérrez-Rivas, Demetrio Lozano, Alberto Roso-Moliner, Rafael Albalad-Aiguabella, Oscar Villanueva-Guerrero and Elena Mainer-Pardos

Sports 2025, 13(10), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13100362 (registering DOI) - 11 Oct 2025

Viewed by 50

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) has been identified as a protective factor for adolescent mental health. This study analysed the association between PA and levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among adolescents, considering gender, educational stage, and type of sport. A cross-sectional design was conducted with 106 Spanish secondary school students aged 12–16 years. Data were collected through a self-reported questionnaire on PA participation and the validated DASS-21 scale. Descriptive statistics, chi-square (χ²) tests, and adjusted residual analyses were performed. The results showed a significant negative association between PA and anxiety (χ² = 303.34, p < 0.01), stress (χ² = 310.64, p < 0.01), and depression (χ² = 324.32, p < 0.01). Non-athletes presented higher levels of psychological problems compared with active peers, while girls and older students showed greater vulnerability. Adolescents involved in team sports exhibited lower anxiety and stress than those participating in individual sports. In conclusion, higher participation in physical activity, particularly team-based disciplines, is associated with better mental health in adolescents. These findings reinforce the importance of integrating regular physical activity into school contexts to support psychological well-being during adolescence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

18 pages, 1406 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Value of the First Repetition: Force, Impulse, and Linear Velocity in Flywheel Deadlifts and Their Link to Maximal Free-Weight Strength

by Athanasios Tsoukos and Gregory C. Bogdanis

Sports 2025, 13(10), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13100345 - 3 Oct 2025

Viewed by 942

Abstract

The purpose of this study was threefold: (a) to analyze differences in mean force, impulse, mean concentric and eccentric velocity, and peak concentric velocity across six repetitions of the flywheel deadlift exercise, with a particular focus on the first repetition initiated from zero momentum; (b) to explore relationships between these kinetic and kinematic variables and one-repetition maximum (1-RM) performance in the free-weight deadlift; (c) to examine the effects of different flywheel inertial loads on the relationships among mean force (MF), impulse, time under tension (TUT), and velocity, with the aim of identifying the most valid and reliable parameter for flywheel load prescription. Thirteen resistance-trained men (24.7 ± 5.0 y; 82.2 ± 11.7 kg; 1-RM deadlift: 174 ± 24 kg) performed six repetitions of the flywheel deadlift against six inertial loads (0.025 to 0.145 kg∙m²) on a kBox 5 device. Results showed that although the first repetition had 25–30% lower mean concentric velocity and 7–11% lower mean force compared to subsequent repetitions (p < 0.001), it exhibited 4–8% higher impulse due to the 14–20% longer time under tension. MF, velocity, and impulse in the first repetition showed moderate-to-strong correlations with 1-RM (r = 0.58 to 0.85, p < 0.05), particularly at the two higher inertia loads. MF plateaued at moderate inertia loads, while impulse and TUT increased linearly with increasing inertial load and demonstrated the strongest and most consistent relationships with inertial load (r = 0.99 ± 0.01 and 0.97 ± 0.02, p < 0.001), enabling individualized flywheel training prescription. This study highlights the distinct value of the first repetition in flywheel deadlifts and its practical value for both assessment and training. Also, it suggests that impulse and TUT may be used as simple and practical flywheel exercise prescription variables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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13 pages, 422 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ischemic Preconditioning Attenuates the Decline in Repeated Anaerobic Performance Under Simulated Altitude: A Randomized Crossover Study

by Miłosz Drozd, Jakub Chycki, Adam Maszczyk, Hiago L. R. Souza, Adam Zajac and Moacir Marocolo

Sports 2025, 13(9), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090313 - 8 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Background: This study examined the effects of repeated ischemic preconditioning (IPC) combined with normobaric hypoxia on anaerobic performance and physiological stress markers. Methods: Fourteen physically active males (22.3 ± 3.1 years) completed three randomized, single-blind crossover sessions under the following conditions: (1) normoxia (NOR), (2) normobaric hypoxia (HYP; FiO₂ = 14.7%), and (3) hypoxia with IPC (IPC-HYP). Each session included three 30 s cycling Wingate tests separated by four minutes of passive recovery. Blood samples were collected pre-exercise, immediately post-exercise, and 15 min post-exercise to assess lactate, pH, bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), and creatine kinase (CK) activity. Results: Peak power output was highest under NOR during Wingate II and III. IPC-HYP attenuated the decline in peak power compared to that under HYP (e.g., Wingate II: 15.56 vs. 12.52 W/kg). IPC-HYP induced greater lactate accumulation (peak: 15.45 mmol/L, p < 0.01), more pronounced acidosis (pH: 7.18 post-exercise), and lower bicarbonate (9.9 mmol/L, p < 0.01). CK activity, measured immediately and then 1 h and 24 h post-exercise, was highest under IPC-HYP at 24 h (568.5 U/L). Conclusions: IPC-HYP mitigates the decline in peak anaerobic power observed under hypoxia, despite eliciting greater metabolic and muscular stress. These findings suggest that IPC may enhance physiological adaptation to hypoxic training, potentially improving anaerobic performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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9 pages, 399 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Basketball Referee Decision-Making Using the DMQ-II Questionnaire

by Raúl Nieto-Acevedo, Carlos García-Sánchez, Moisés Marquina Nieto, Daniel Mon-Lopez, Andrea Hortiguela-Herradas and Jorge Lorenzo-Calvo

Sports 2025, 13(8), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080270 - 15 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Basketball is a sport whose regulations require quick and complex refereeing decisions. Since the inception of sports, research on sports judgment and refereeing has been consistently present in the scientific literature. However, decision-making and the psycho-emotional factors that influence it remain somewhat unexplored in studies. The decision-making of the basketball referee has been analyzed using the DMQ II questionnaire. To achieve this, 58 referees from the Spanish Basketball Federation collaborated, comprising 45 men and 13 women, all between the ages of 18 and 38 (M = 26.5, SD = 5.5). Participants completed the 31-question DMQ II questionnaire online, yielding results with significant differences based on age and gender about stress in decision-making. A modification of the referee’s teaching methodology that includes psychological strategies is proposed both in the initiation course and throughout the refereeing career. The findings highlight the need for mental health support systems for referees, particularly addressing stress management in young and female officials. This aligns with global efforts to safeguard psychological well-being in sports professionals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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13 pages, 827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cardiac Autonomic Function in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: The Impact of Exercise Training and Detraining

by Maria Anifanti, Andriana Teloudi, Alexandros Mitropoulos, Niki Syrakou, Eleni Pagkopoulou, Eva Triantafyllidou, Carina Boström, Louise Pyndt Diederichsen, Tiziana Nava, Theodoros Dimitroulas, Markos Klonizakis and Evangelia Kouidi

Sports 2025, 13(8), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080267 - 13 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Adverse cardiovascular events and increased mortality are associated with cardiac autonomic nervous system dysfunction in the early stages of the systemic sclerosis (SSc), even prior to the development of cardiac fibrosis. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of a three-month exercise training regimen and a subsequent comparable period of detraining on the activity of the cardiac autonomic nervous system in patients with SSc. A total of forty patients with SSc were randomized to either the control group (Group COΝ) or the exercise training group (Group ET). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing was performed at baseline, three months later, and six months later to assess peak oxygen uptake (VO₂peak). They also had 24 h electrocardiogram monitoring for heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence analysis. The following time-domain indices were evaluated in the context of HRV analysis: the standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN), the root mean square of successive RR interval differences (rMSSD), and the percentage of successive RR intervals that differ by more than 50 ms (pNN50). Additionally, regarding the frequency-domain indicators, the low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) components, as well as the LF/HF ratio, were evaluated. Independent t-tests and Chi-square tests were used for baseline comparisons, while two-way repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests assessed changes over time and between groups. Linear and multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore relationships among variables and identify predictors of HRV indices and VO₂peak. Group ET implemented a three-month mixed-type exercise training program, while Group COΝ received standard care. Group ET improved indices of vagal activity [rMSSD by 32.6% (p = 0.017), pNN50 by 57.1% (p = 0.01) and HF by 20.1% (p = 0.01)] and sympathovagal activity [SDNN by 15.5% (p = 0.002) and LF/HF by 12.03% (p = 0.004)] after three months. Exercising patients also increased their VO₂peak by 20.8% (p = 0.001). A robust positive correlation was observed between ΔVO₂peak and ΔSDNN (r = 0.754, p < 0.001). After three months, there was no statistically significant difference in the VO₂peak or any HRV index in the group COΝ. Compared to the baseline values, there was no statistically significant difference in group ET at 6 months, whereas the control group exhibited a decline. In summary, a three-month mixed-type exercise training program can enhance the cardiorespiratory efficiency and cardiac autonomic nervous system function of patients with SSc, as well as alleviate the deterioration that arises following the detraining period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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20 pages, 555 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Impact of Active Methodologies Involving Physical Activity on Primary School Students: A Systematic Review (2018–2024)

by Rafael Francisco Caracuel-Cáliz, José Luis Ubago-Jiménez, José Manuel Alonso-Vargas and Eduardo Melguizo-Ibáñez

Sports 2025, 13(10), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13100358 - 10 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Physical activity integration in elementary education seeks to promote academic performance and the physical, emotional and social health of students. This study aims to examine the effect of active methodologies involving physical activity in primary school students through a detailed review of the scientific literature. A systematic review was conducted regarding PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in Web of Science, Scopus and SPORTDiscus. Studies published between 2018 and April 2024 were selected. The studies focused on the application of active methodologies in primary school populations. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Articles from Various Fields. After screening and review, 22 articles were included. Most of the studies had longitudinal quasi-experimental or repeated measures designs with a randomized cluster-controlled pilot trial. Cross-sectional studies with descriptive data and mixed methods were also included. Cooperative learning and active breaks were found to improve engagement, classroom behavior, and academic outcomes. In addition, gamification and challenge-based learning also showed positive effects on motivation and engagement, although these were more context-dependent. Shorter or small-scale interventions produced promising but less robust results. Active methodologies improve primary education outcomes, but inconsistent designs limit generalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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16 pages, 1521 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Therapeutic Exercise for Hospitalized Sarcopenic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Olivier Chan-Fook, Javier Martin-Núñez, Julia Raya-Benítez, Alba Navas-Otero, Irene Cabrera-Martos, Marie Carmen Valenza and Alejandro Heredia-Ciuró

Sports 2025, 13(9), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090326 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 410

Abstract

Sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder associated with an impairment of functional status, increasing dependency and mortality. The high prevalence among hospitalized patients has increased interest in active interventions such as exercise; however, the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise in this population remains unclear. This systematic review with a meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic exercises in hospitalized patients diagnosed with or at risk of sarcopenia. A systematic search was conducted in Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus databases following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials assessing therapeutic exercises for sarcopenic or at-risk hospitalized patients were included. Methodological quality was evaluated using the TIDieR Checklist and the ROB2 tool. We performed a meta-analysis addressing muscle strength, physical performance and cognitive function. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 1468 participants. Similar interventions were observed, including mainly resistance and balance exercises. Therapeutic exercises demonstrated significant improvements in physical performance (2.98 (1.13–4.83); p = 0.002; I² = 99%), muscle strength (2.11 (0.20–4.01); p = 0.03; I² = 99%) and cognitive function (0.77 (0.25–1.29); p = 0.004; I² = 98%) across several studies. Therapeutic exercises appear to improve sarcopenic outcomes in hospitalized patients, supporting their role as a non-pharmacological intervention to mitigate sarcopenia-related complications. However, due to the lack of reported muscle mass outcomes, as well as the limited number and methodological quality of the included studies, further well-designed trials are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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12 pages, 302 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Impact of Exercise Therapy in ERAS Prehabilitation for Major Surgery: A Systematic Review

by Anna Antonia Valenzano, Paride Vasco, Gabriella D’Orsi, Tommaso Cassano, Raffaella Marzovillo, Antonio Di Stasi and Giuseppe Cibelli

Sports 2025, 13(9), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090315 - 10 Sep 2025

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Abstract

(1) This systematic review evaluates the role of structured exercise within the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, a multidisciplinary approach designed to reduce surgical stress and enhance recovery. Prehabilitation, primarily through controlled physical activity, is a fundamental component of ERAS, preparing patients, both physically and mentally, for major surgery. (2) A systematic search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Wiley databases to identify relevant studies published up to January 2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses reporting postoperative complications, length of hospital stay (LOS), and overall recovery. (3) A total of 64 studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings consistently demonstrate that structured exercise interventions—such as aerobic activities, resistance training, and flexibility routines—were associated with postoperative complications, shorten hospital stays, and enhance functional recovery. These interventions improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and psychological well-being. (4) Despite potential limitations in the systematic search, as heterogeneity of protocols, publication bias, language restrictions, the evidence supports the integration of structured exercise as a cornerstone of ERAS prehabilitation. Future research should focus on standardizing exercise protocols and exploring personalized strategies to optimize surgical outcomes across diverse patient populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Health Through Physical Activity and Sports Science: Innovations in Applied Research)

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