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12 pages, 1934 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a Specific Trunk and Shoulder Strength Training Program on Throwing Velocity and Accuracy: A Study Among Hungarian First-League Female Handball Players

by Gréta Csilla Sinka, Ágnes Mayer, András Tállay, Miklós Tátrai, Lilla Tábori, Eszter Papp and Attila Pavlik

Sports 2024, 12(11), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12110296 - 31 Oct 2024

Viewed by 582

Abstract

The aim of the study was to record shoulder and trunk stability of elite female handball players and to investigate their effect on throwing velocity and accuracy. 151 female handball players (9 teams in total) from the Hungarian first league participated in a [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to record shoulder and trunk stability of elite female handball players and to investigate their effect on throwing velocity and accuracy. 151 female handball players (9 teams in total) from the Hungarian first league participated in a mid-season conditional survey. The study included tests of trunk and shoulder stability, and measurements of factors affecting shoulder stability, as well as throwing speed and throwing accuracy. After the conditional survey, 18 players were selected for the intervention group (IG) and 18 players for the control group (CG). Significant relationships were found between the medial stability of the shoulder joint (Y-balance) and throwing accuracy (upper right corner) (r = 0.766; p < 0.001), throwing accuracy (upper left corner) (r = 0.729; p < 0.001), total throwing accuracy (r = 0.907; p < 0.001). The IG showed significant improvement in trunk stability (p < 0.001), shoulder joint stability (p < 0.001), throwing velocity (p < 0.001), and throwing accuracy (p = 0.002), compared to the CG. These findings support the idea that trunk and shoulder stability are related to throwing performance of female handball players. Measuring and training these aforementioned factors, particularly medial shoulder stability, may be a valuable adjunct to improving throwing accuracy and throwing velocity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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16 pages, 4114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Weighted Vest at 0%, 5% and 10% of Body Mass on Gasometry Biomarkers and Performance during a Rectangular Test in Trained Trail Runners

by Francisco Javier Martínez-Noguera, Pedro E. Alcaraz and Cristian Marín-Pagán

Sports 2024, 12(9), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12090229 - 23 Aug 2024

Viewed by 816

Abstract

Trail runners (TRs) must carry an extra load of equipment, food (bars and gels) and liquids, to delay the anticipation of fatigue and dehydration during their competitions. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate how an extra load can influence the metabolic level. Thirteen well-trained [...] Read more.

Trail runners (TRs) must carry an extra load of equipment, food (bars and gels) and liquids, to delay the anticipation of fatigue and dehydration during their competitions. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate how an extra load can influence the metabolic level. Thirteen well-trained trail runners performed a randomized crossover study (total n = 39), completing three treadmill running sessions with a weighted vest of 0%, 5% and 10% of their body mass during a combined test (rectangular test + ramp test). In addition, biomarkers of oxygen metabolism, acid–base and electrolyte status pre-, during and post-test, as well as the rectangular from capillary blood of the finger and time to exhaustion, were analyzed. Repeated-measures ANOVA showed no significant difference between conditions for any of the analyzed biomarkers of blood gas. However, one-way ANOVA showed a significant difference in trial duration between conditions (p ≤ 0.001). Tukey’s post hoc analysis observed a significant decrease in time to exhaustion in the weighted vest of 10% compared to 0% (p ≤ 0.001) and 5% (p ≤ 0.01) and 5% compared to 0% (p = 0.030). In addition, repeated-measures ANOVA detected a significant difference in pH in the group x time interaction (p = 0.035). Our results show that increasing the weighted vest (5% and 10%) anticipates fatigue in runners trained in TR. In addition, increasing the load decreased pH by a smaller magnitude at 10% compared to 0% and 5% at the end of the exercise protocol. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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11 pages, 2214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Muscle Changes during Direct Attack under Different Conditions in Elite Wheelchair Fencing

by Julio Martín-Ruiz, Jorge Alarcón-Jiménez, Nieves de Bernardo, Ignacio Tamarit-Grancha, Xavier Iglesias and Laura Ruiz-Sanchis

Sports 2024, 12(7), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12070188 - 10 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1003

Abstract

Wheelchair fencing is a medium-distance combat sport in which the wheelchair is fixed to the floor. This requires a maximum concentration and gestational speed. Refined techniques and fatigue tolerance are essential to achieve competitive results. Aim: The main objective of this study was [...] Read more.

Wheelchair fencing is a medium-distance combat sport in which the wheelchair is fixed to the floor. This requires a maximum concentration and gestational speed. Refined techniques and fatigue tolerance are essential to achieve competitive results. Aim: The main objective of this study was to measure the speed and muscular participation of a direct attack gesture with and without fatigue in a sample of elite wheelchair fencers. Methods: The maximal isometric force, gestural speed, and resistance to gestural velocity were estimated in 10 elite performed direct fencers. Results: The results revealed that sitting height and wingspan were important factors in achieving the highest speed, especially in women (r = 0.9; p = 0.07). Other factors, such as the elbow angle where the closed position was better, affected muscle contraction in both categories of athletes (p = 0.01). The onset of fatigue was earlier in category B than in category A, with greater variation in direct attack movement. The results highlight the importance of analyzing direct attacks for the best application of quick force, speed, and muscle participation, as well as identifying the onset of technical deterioration to devise a competitive strategy. These parameters may allow for precise design of conditioning sessions for elite wheelchair shooters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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17 pages, 2932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning on Sport-Specific Performance in Highly Trained Taekwondo Athletes

by Maicon Rodrigues Albuquerque, Cristiano Arruda Gomes Flôr, Amanda Isadora Santos Ribeiro, Paulo Henrique Caldeira Mesquita, Emerson Franchini and Gilberto Candido Laurentino

Sports 2024, 12(7), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12070179 - 26 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1481

Abstract

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC), which involves episodes of blood flow restriction followed by reperfusion, has uncertain effects on athletes. Additionally, employing sports-specific tests that are highly familiar to athletes can enhance methodological rigor in determining IPC’s effects on taekwondo performance. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC), which involves episodes of blood flow restriction followed by reperfusion, has uncertain effects on athletes. Additionally, employing sports-specific tests that are highly familiar to athletes can enhance methodological rigor in determining IPC’s effects on taekwondo performance. This study aimed to investigate IPC’s influence on taekwondo athletes’ performance through two studies. To induce occlusion in both studies, the cuff was inflated to an individualized occlusion pressure established for each athlete’s lower limb, with four cycles of occlusion lasting five minutes each, alternated with five-minute reperfusion intervals. Both traditional frequentist statistics and Bayesian analysis were employed. In the first study, eleven high-level athletes were subjected to either IPC or a placebo (SHAM) procedure on both legs, followed by performing countermovement jumps (CMJs) and a specific taekwondo endurance test. However, no significant differences were observed in taekwondo endurance performance or CMJ between the IPC and SHAM conditions. The second study involved fourteen elite athletes who underwent the same IPC or SHAM conditions, performing CMJ and three bouts of the Multiple Frequency Speed of Kick test (FSKTmult) in three blocks, each separated by approximately thirty minutes. Again, the results indicated no significant differences in FSKTmult measures or CMJ performance between the two conditions. In conclusion, IPC did not significantly affect neuromuscular (in both studies), endurance (in the first study), or anaerobic (in the second study) performance in these taekwondo athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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16 pages, 19215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision-Making Time Analysis for Assessing Processing Speed in Athletes during Motor Reaction Tasks

by Leonardo Ariel Cano, Gonzalo Daniel Gerez, María Soledad García, Ana Lía Albarracín, Fernando Daniel Farfán and Eduardo Fernández-Jover

Sports 2024, 12(6), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12060151 - 29 May 2024

Viewed by 1724

Abstract

Reaction time (RT) is a widely used measure for testing physical performance in motor tasks. This study focused on assessing the processing speed in athletes. Twenty-five healthy volunteers were assigned to the control (n = 16) or athletes groups (n = 9). They [...] Read more.

Reaction time (RT) is a widely used measure for testing physical performance in motor tasks. This study focused on assessing the processing speed in athletes. Twenty-five healthy volunteers were assigned to the control (n = 16) or athletes groups (n = 9). They were evaluated during motor reaction tasks based on visual stimuli and three difficulty conditions. Physiological measures were obtained from motion capture and electromyography recordings of several muscles. Two RT phases, decision-making (DMK) and electromechanical delay (EMD), were used to analyze the processing speed. The results show significant RT differences between groups. The athletes were ~30% faster compared to the control group. Despite the fact that all participants were right-handed, RT did not show any differences between hands performances in any group. However, DMK time revealed significant differences between the hands. Controls showed a longer DMK time for the right-hand election, ~20% more than the left, while athletes showed no such disparity. These findings reveal that quantifying the decision-making component of reaction time is crucial to assessing processing speed in sport. This approach could facilitate the monitoring of adaptations in both motor–cognitive and neuromuscular processes. The theoretical implications presented in this study offer perspectives on handedness research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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10 pages, 807 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Static Apnea Diving Training on the Physiological Parameters of People with a Sports Orientation and Sedentary Participants: A Pilot Study

by Dmitriy Bezruk, Petr Bahenský, David Marko, Miroslav Krajcigr, Petr Bahenský, Jr., Eva Novák-Nowická and Tomáš Mrkvička

Sports 2024, 12(6), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12060140 - 22 May 2024

Viewed by 2280

Abstract

Diver training improves physical and mental fitness, which can also benefit other sports. This study investigates the effect of eight weeks of static apnea training on maximum apnea time, and on the physiological parameters of runners, swimmers, and sedentary participants, such as forced [...] Read more.

Diver training improves physical and mental fitness, which can also benefit other sports. This study investigates the effect of eight weeks of static apnea training on maximum apnea time, and on the physiological parameters of runners, swimmers, and sedentary participants, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), minimum heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO₂). The study followed 19 participants, including five runners, swimmers, sedentary participants, and four competitive divers for reference values. The minimum value of SpO₂, HR, maximum duration of apnea, and FVC were measured. Apnea training occurred four times weekly, consisting of six apneas with 60 s breathing pauses. Apnea duration was gradually increased by 30 s. The measurement started with a 30 s apnea and ended with maximal apnea. There was a change in SpO₂ decreased by 6.8%, maximum apnea length increased by 15.8%, HR decreased by 9.1%, and FVC increased by 12.4% for the groups (p < 0.05). There were intra-groups changes, but no significant inter-groups difference was observed. Eight weeks of apnea training improved the maximum duration of apnea, FVC values and reduced the minimum values of SpO₂ and HR in all groups. No differences were noted between groups after training. This training may benefit cardiorespiratory parameters in the population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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9 pages, 254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lower-Body Power, Body Composition, Speed, and Agility Performance among Youth Soccer Players

by Cíntia França, Élvio Rúbio Gouveia, Francisco Martins, Andreas Ihle, Ricardo Henriques, Adilson Marques, Hugo Sarmento, Krzysztof Przednowek and Helder Lopes

Sports 2024, 12(5), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12050135 - 16 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1784

Abstract

Speed and agility have been described as crucial abilities for soccer players. The purpose of this study was to analyze, in detail, the variance in speed and agility tasks explained by lower-body power after controlling for age and body composition. The participants were [...] Read more.

Speed and agility have been described as crucial abilities for soccer players. The purpose of this study was to analyze, in detail, the variance in speed and agility tasks explained by lower-body power after controlling for age and body composition. The participants were 96 male soccer players aged 16.1 ± 1.6 years. Body composition (stature, body fat percentage—BF%, body mass, and fat-free mass—FFM), lower-body power (countermovement jump—CMJ, and squat jump—SJ), speed (5-, 10-, and 35 m sprints), and agility (t-test) were assessed. Among body composition parameters, BF% presented the highest number of significant relationships with speed and agility, with the strength of correlations ranging from small (5 m sprint, r = 0.25) to large (35 m sprint, r = 0.52). The strongest correlation coefficient emerged between FFM and the 35 m sprint (r = −0.65). Significant correlations were found between vertical jump performance and the 35 m sprint (CMJ: r = −0.68; SJ: r = −0.69), followed by the t-test (CMJ: r = −0.35; SJ: r = −0.47). The hierarchical multiple regression model could explain 22% to 67% of the variance observed in agility scores and speed. BF% remained the most statistically significant negative predictor of all regression models. The CMJ remained a statistically significant positive predictor of the 35 m sprint (β = −0.581, p ≤ 0.01) after controlling for age and body composition. Integrating programs targeting lower-body power might be important to enhance speed and agility performance in youth soccer. On the other hand, future research based on multidisciplinary approaches to investigate the effects of nutritional strategies in reducing or preventing gains in BF% is still needed, which remained a significant predictor of sprint and agility performance in the final models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

15 pages, 2423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Training Characteristics, Performance, and Body Composition of Three U23 Elite Female Triathletes throughout a Season

by Sergio Sellés-Pérez, Hector Arévalo-Chico, José Fernández-Sáez and Roberto Cejuela

Sports 2024, 12(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12020053 - 7 Feb 2024

Viewed by 4989

Abstract

(1) Background: There is a lack of data on the long-term training characteristics and performance markers of elite young female endurance athletes. The aim of this study was to present the training load (ECOs), as well as the evolution of the anthropometric values [...] Read more.

(1) Background: There is a lack of data on the long-term training characteristics and performance markers of elite young female endurance athletes. The aim of this study was to present the training load (ECOs), as well as the evolution of the anthropometric values and performance of three elite U23 female triathletes over a season. (2) Methods: General training data and performance data relating to the swimming, cycling, and running legs of the 2021 season were described. The training intensity distribution (TID) was presented using the triphasic model, while the training load was based on the ECO model. An anthropometric analysis was also conducted in accordance with the ISAK standards. (3) Results: Triathletes increased their VO_2max in cycling (6.9–10%) and running (7.1–9.1%), as well as their power and speed associated with the VO_2max (7.7–8.6% in cycling and 5.1–5.3% in running) and their swimming speed associated with the lactate thresholds (2.6–4.0% in LT2 and 1.2–2.5% in LT1). The triathletes completed more than 10 h of weekly average training time, with peak weeks exceeding 15 h. The average TID of the three triathletes was 82% in phase 1, 6% in phase 2, and 12% in phase 3. A decrease in the sum of skinfolds and fat mass percentage was observed during the season in the three triathletes, although the last measurement revealed a stagnation or slight rise in these parameters. (4) Conclusions: The triathletes performed a combination of two training periodization models (traditional and block periodization) with a polarized TID in most of the weeks of the season. Improvements in performance and physiological parameters were observed after the general preparatory period as well as a positive body composition evolution throughout the season, except at the end, where the last measurement revealed stagnation or a slight decline. This study can be useful as a general guide for endurance coaches to organize a training season with female U23 triathletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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11 pages, 633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intensity Distribution of Collegiate Cross-Country Competitions

by Noah Perez, Payton Miller and John W. Farrell III

Sports 2024, 12(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12010018 - 5 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1951

Abstract

The primary purpose of the current investigation was to perform an intensity distribution analysis of a collegiate cross-country (CC) competition, with a secondary purpose to compare race times (RT) with modeled performance times (MPT). Participants completed an incremental treadmill test to determine gas [...] Read more.

The primary purpose of the current investigation was to perform an intensity distribution analysis of a collegiate cross-country (CC) competition, with a secondary purpose to compare race times (RT) with modeled performance times (MPT). Participants completed an incremental treadmill test to determine gas exchange threshold (GET), while the three-minute all-out test was conducted on a 400 m outdoor track to determine critical velocity (CV) and D prime (D′). GET and CV were used as physiological markers for the intensity zones based on heart rate (HR) and running velocity (RV), while CV and D′ were used to determine modeled performance times. Participants wore a Global Positioning System (GPS) watch and heart rate (HR) monitor during competition races. Statistically, less time was spent in HR Zone 1 (12.1% ± 13.7%) compared to Zones 2 (37.6% ± 30.2%) and 3 (50.3% ± 33.7%), while a statically greater amount of time was spent in RV Zone 2 (75.0% ± 20.7%) compared to Zones 1 (8.4% ± 14.0%) and 3 (16.7% ± 19.1%). RTs (1499.5 ± 248.5 seconds (s)) were statistically slower compared to MPTs (1359.6 ± 192.7 s). The observed differences in time spent in each zone are speculated to be related to the influence of environmental conditions on internal metrics and difference in the kinetics of HR and running velocity. Differences in RTs and MPTs are likely due to the MPT equation modeling all-out performance and not considering race strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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15 pages, 1811 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Training, Pharmacological Ergogenic Aids, Dehydration, and Nutrition Strategies during a Peak Week in Competitive Brazilian Bodybuilders: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study in a Non-World Anti-Doping Agency Competitive Environment

by Fernando Noronha de Almeida, Dahan da Cunha Nascimento, Ronaldo Ferreira Moura, Douglas Leão Peixoto, Wilson Max Almeida Monteiro de Moraes, Brad J. Schoenfeld, Ivo Vieira de Sousa Neto and Jonato Prestes

Sports 2024, 12(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12010011 - 29 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4512

Abstract

Background: this observational and cross-sectional study aimed to describe training, pharmacological ergogenic aids, dehydration, and nutrition strategies during a peak week in competitive bodybuilders and monitor changes that occurred across this period. Methods: Ten amateur bodybuilders were followed during a peak week phase [...] Read more.

Background: this observational and cross-sectional study aimed to describe training, pharmacological ergogenic aids, dehydration, and nutrition strategies during a peak week in competitive bodybuilders and monitor changes that occurred across this period. Methods: Ten amateur bodybuilders were followed during a peak week phase and one day post-contest. Training, diet, dehydration protocol, anabolic steroid use, and nonsteroidal agents were recorded, prescribed, and supervised by the same coach in charge. Body composition, resting metabolic rate, and circumferences were assessed by the research team. Results: Overall, during the peak week phase, the use of anabolic steroids, diuretics, and other pharmacological aids was high among athletes, and the dose and frequency were similar between competitors. Despite the use of supraphysiological doses of drugs, bodybuilders displayed a statistical reduction of lean mass markers, resting metabolic rate, and fat mass markers, possibly influenced by the performance of high volumes of aerobic exercise combined with dietary energy restriction. Conclusions: The main findings of this study display that the coach in charge of Brazilian bodybuilders applied the same anabolic steroid, diuretic, and other pharmacological protocols for all competitors. Moreover, the protocols employed by bodybuilders did not fully attenuate the loss of lean mass during the peak week period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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9 pages, 890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Intercostal Muscle Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Estimating Respiratory Compensation Point in Trained Endurance Athletes

by Salvador Romero-Arenas, Carmen Daniela Quero-Calero, Oriol Abellan-Aynes, Luis Andreu-Caravaca, Marta Fernandez-Calero, Pedro Manonelles and Daniel Lopez-Plaza

Sports 2023, 11(11), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11110212 - 1 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2144

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of estimating the respiratory compensation point (RCP) in trained endurance athletes by analyzing intercostal muscles’ NIRS-derived tissue oxygenation dynamics. Seventeen experienced trail runners underwent an incremental treadmill protocol on two separate occasions, with a [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of estimating the respiratory compensation point (RCP) in trained endurance athletes by analyzing intercostal muscles’ NIRS-derived tissue oxygenation dynamics. Seventeen experienced trail runners underwent an incremental treadmill protocol on two separate occasions, with a 7-day gap between assessments. Gas exchange and muscle oxygenation data were collected, and the oxygen saturation breakpoint (SmO₂BP) measured in the intercostal muscles was compared to the RCP, which was identified by the increase in the VE/

\dot{V}

CO₂ slope and the point at which the PetCO₂ started to decrease. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two methods for any of the variables analyzed. Bland–Altman analysis showed significant agreement between the NIRS and gas analyzer methods for speed (r = 0.96, p < 0.05), HR (r = 0.98, p < 0.05),

\dot{V}

O₂ relative to body mass (r = 0.99, p < 0.05), and %SmO₂ (r = 0.98, p < 0.05). The interclass correlation coefficient values showed moderate to good reliability (0.60 to 0.86), and test–retest analysis revealed mean differences within the confidence intervals for all variables. These findings suggest that the SmO₂BP measured using a portable NIRS device in the intercostal muscles is a reliable and valid tool for estimating the RCP for experienced trail runners and might be useful for coaches and athletes to monitor endurance training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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15 pages, 1246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beneficial Effects of Asparagus officinalis Extract Supplementation on Muscle Mass and Strength following Resistance Training and Detraining in Healthy Males

by Barakat Denben, Siriporn Sripinyowanich, Ratree Ruangthai and Jatuporn Phoemsapthawee

Sports 2023, 11(9), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11090175 - 5 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2089

Abstract

The phytoecdysteroid 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) is widely used for resistance training (RT). Little is known about its potential ergogenic value and detraining effects post-RT. This study aimed to examine the effects of 20E extracted from Asparagus officinalis (A. officinalis) on muscle strength [...] Read more.

The phytoecdysteroid 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) is widely used for resistance training (RT). Little is known about its potential ergogenic value and detraining effects post-RT. This study aimed to examine the effects of 20E extracted from Asparagus officinalis (A. officinalis) on muscle strength and mass, as well as anabolic and catabolic hormones following RT and detraining. Twenty males, aged 20.1 ± 1.1 years, were matched and randomly assigned to consume double-blind supplements containing either a placebo (PLA) or 30 mg/day of 20E for 12 weeks of RT and detraining. Before and after RT and detraining, muscle strength and mass and anabolic and catabolic hormones were measured. This study found that 20E reduced cortisol levels significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the PLA, yet no effect was observed on muscle mass, strength, or anabolic hormones after RT. Subsequent to 6 weeks of detraining, the 20E demonstrated a lower percentage change in 1RM bench press/FFM than the PLA (p < 0.05). Compared to the PLA, detraining throughout the 12 weeks resulted in a lower percentage change in thigh (p < 0.05) and chest (p < 0.01) circumferences, as well as reduced cortisol levels (p < 0.01), with 20E. Our findings demonstrate that 20E supplementation is a promising way to maintain muscle mass and strength during detraining. Accordingly, 20E may prevent muscle mass and strength loss due to detraining by lowering catabolic hormone levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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15 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Effect of Four Stretching Protocols on Change of Direction in U-17 Male Soccer Players

by Mohamed Amine Ltifi, Mohamed Chedly Jlid, Jérémy Coquart, Nicola Maffulli, Roland van den Tillaar and Ridha Aouadi

Sports 2023, 11(9), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11090165 - 1 Sep 2023

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Abstract

Background: The ability to rapidly change direction while sprinting is a desirable athletic skill in soccer. Enhancing change of direction (COD) performance depends almost exclusively on specific training, with stretching traditionally considered one such intervention. However, the comparative impact of diverse stretching methods [...] Read more.

Background: The ability to rapidly change direction while sprinting is a desirable athletic skill in soccer. Enhancing change of direction (COD) performance depends almost exclusively on specific training, with stretching traditionally considered one such intervention. However, the comparative impact of diverse stretching methods on COD in soccer players remains an area of interest. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of different stretching methods on COD ability in soccer players. Methods: Twelve male soccer players playing in the national championship football division II (age: 16.3 ± 0.3 years, height: 1.81 ± 0.10 m, body mass: 67.7 ± 7.2 kg) were tested for COD performance (i.e., Illinois agility test) after (1) control condition (20 min general warm-up without stretching), (2) static stretching, (3) dynamic stretching, (4) combined static-dynamic stretching, and (5) combined dynamic-static stretching. The duration of stretching intervention was approximately 6 min for static and dynamic stretching and 12 min for both the combined stretching conditions. The experimental sessions were separated by 72 h. Results: COD improved after dynamic stretching when compared to any other condition (p: 0.03–0.002; η_p²: 0.56–0.73), except for the control condition (p = 0.146; η_p² = 0.18). In contrast, static stretching induced a detrimental effect on COD when compared only to the dynamic stretching condition (p < 0.01; ES = 1.35). Conclusion: Dynamic stretching exercises used by male soccer players in the warm-up improved COD. Other forms of stretching exercises, particularly static stretching, negatively impacted the COD performance. Therefore, coaches can consider integrating dynamic stretching protocols tailored to the athletes’ specific needs. Moreover, extending the investigation to encompass a wider range of athletes, including different age groups and genders, would enhance the applicability and generalization of the findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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9 pages, 972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In-Season Longitudinal Hydration/Body Cell Mass Ratio Changes in Elite Rugby Players

by Álex Cebrián-Ponce, Cristian Petri, Pascal Izzicupo, Matteo Levi Micheli, Cristina Cortis, Andrea Fusco, Marta Carrasco-Marginet and Gabriele Mascherini

Sports 2023, 11(8), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11080142 - 28 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1735

Abstract

Background: Hydration status has a direct role in sports performance. Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) and Urine Specific Gravity (USG) are commonly used to assess hydration. The study aims to identify the sensitivity and relationship between BIVA and USG in a field sports [...] Read more.

Background: Hydration status has a direct role in sports performance. Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) and Urine Specific Gravity (USG) are commonly used to assess hydration. The study aims to identify the sensitivity and relationship between BIVA and USG in a field sports setting. Methods: BIVA and USG measurements were conducted five times throughout one rugby season. 34 elite male rugby players (25.1 ± 4.4 years; 184.0 ± 7.8 cm; 99.9 ± 13.4 kg) were enrolled. Differences over time were tested using one-way repeated measures ANOVA, and Bonferroni’s post-hoc test was applied in pairwise comparisons. Resistance-reactance graphs and Hotelling’s T2 test were used to characterize the sample and to identify bioelectrical changes. A repeated measures correlation test was conducted for BIVA-USG associations. Results: Two clear trends were seen: (1) from July to September, there was a vector shortening and an increase of the phase angle (p < 0.001); and (2) from December to April, there was a vector lengthening and a decrease of the phase angle (p < 0.001). USG reported neither changes nor correlation with BIVA longitudinally (p > 0.05). Vector variations indicated a body fluid gain (especially in the intracellular compartment) and a body cell mass increase during the preseason, suggesting a physical condition and performance improvement. During the last months of the season, the kinetic was the opposite (fluid loss and decreased body cell mass). Conclusions: Results suggested that BIVA is sensitive to physiological changes and a better option than USG for assessing hydration changes during a rugby sports season. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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11 pages, 901 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effect of Vitamin D Consumption on Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Athletes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Saber Saedmocheshi, Ehsan Amiri, Aref Mehdipour and Giuseppe Potrick Stefani

Sports 2024, 12(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12010032 - 13 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3168

Abstract

Vitamin D is essential for the optimal health of the skeletal system. However, this vitamin also plays a role in other functions of the human body, such as muscle, immune, and inflammatory functions. Some studies have reported that adequate levels of vitamin D [...] Read more.

Vitamin D is essential for the optimal health of the skeletal system. However, this vitamin also plays a role in other functions of the human body, such as muscle, immune, and inflammatory functions. Some studies have reported that adequate levels of vitamin D improve immune system function by reducing the levels of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can protect against the risk of post-exercise illness. This systematic review aims to investigate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on pro-inflammatory cytokines in athletes. This study was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search was conducted in SPORTDiscus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar up to 1 October 2023. The quality of the articles was evaluated using the Risk of Bias 2 Tool. After searching the databases, a total of 7417 studies were identified, 6 of which met the eligibility criteria, and their outcomes were presented. The six studies included 176 participants. All six studies are randomized control trials, including a total of 176 subjects, primarily men (81%). Regarding the types of athletes, most participants were endurance athletes. Our investigation in this systematic review demonstrated that out of the six studies, only two of them reported significant changes in IL-6 and TNF-α levels after taking high-dose vitamin D. Other studies did not present any significant changes after vitamin D supplementation in athletes with respect to IL-6 and TNF-α levels. Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation for athletes as a disease-prone community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)

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