Search Results (119)

Background: Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) results in multiple, complex health-related risks and associated fear of movement (kinesiophobia). Therefore, the purpose of this research study was to examine how a holistic, embodied, and performative movement program (EDS-HEART) can affect body schema, physical and mental health, and lifestyle, which contribute to the joy of movement and physical activity participation among adult women with hEDS. Methods: This was a hermeneutic, phenomenological, quasi-experimental, and community-based research study among six women with hEDS, who participated in the EDS-HEART movement program at a local physical therapy clinic. The seven-week program incorporated stretching and strength training activities as well as performative-thematic movement sequences. Results: Based on the qualitative analysis, three themes emerged regarding reasons for the joy of the EDS-HEART program: (a) improved body schema: body awareness, confidence, posture, and proprioception; (b) highly motivating program: holistic, embodied, performative, pleasant, and safe; and (c) psychosocial reasons: supportive setting, sense of pleasure and euphoria, and freed from social comparisons and the fear of movement. Conclusions: Based on the study results, public health experts should develop and implement easily accessible and holistic movement programs among people with hEDS and similar conditions to improve physical health, psychosocial health, and the joy of movement. Full article

Background/Objectives: Physical inactivity is associated with increased cardiometabolic disease risk and poor cognition in children and their parents. Family-based physical activity offers an opportunity for children and their parents to engage in physical activity concurrently. The present study examined the effect of an acute bout of family-based tag rugby on risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and cognition in families. Additionally, this study qualitatively explored families’ perceptions of enjoyment and factors affecting implementation with considerations for socioeconomic status. Methods: Sixteen families (27 children, 20 parents) participated in an exercise (45 min family-based tag rugby) and resting control trial (45 min seated rest), separated by seven days. Postprandial gylcaemia, insulinaemia, lipaemia and cognitive function were measured following exercise/rest. Families also participated in whole-family focus groups and separate parent and child interviews. Results: In parents, postprandial plasma insulin concentrations were lower on the exercise trial than the rested control trial at 30 min (p = 0.004) and 120 min following the consumption of a standardised lunch (p = 0.011). In children, a significant trial*time interaction for inverse efficiency scores on the Sternberg paradigm (three-item) was exhibited (p = 0.016). In parents, a significant trial*time interaction for inverse efficiency score on the Stroop congruent test was exhibited (trial*time interaction; p = 0.012), whereby inverse efficiency scores improved immediately post-exercise, compared with the rested control trial (p = 0.016). Qualitatively, families from all socioeconomic backgrounds agreed that tag rugby is an inclusive, enjoyable mode of physical activity that families want to participate in together, which can be adapted to overcome the barriers associated with the cost of and access to local facilities. Conclusions: An acute bout of tag rugby improved postprandial insulin concentrations in parents and cognitive function in children and their parents. Tag rugby was deemed an appropriate exercise modality for families from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds. Full article

Most existing virtual reality exergames rely on generic VR devices, which can limit the physical exertion in VR-based exercises. In contrast, physical props can enhance exercise intensity, yet their impact on users’ performance and experience remains understudied, particularly in skill-based tasks. Meanwhile, physical props offer richer tactile and kinesthetic feedback, which, combined with the visual effects of head-mounted displays, presents a potential solution for improving user experience in VR. To explore this, this study developed a sensor-driven experimental framework for investigating high-skill VR tasks. By integrating vision sensors with standard VR devices, we constructed a VR archery system that enables objective quantification of motor performance. Leveraging the sensor-driven framework, we investigate the effects of physical props and physics-associated visual feedback on players’ performance and experience in VR tasks through an experiment involving 33 participants. By objectively quantifying performance, we reveal a dual-pathway mechanism: physical props significantly increased hand tremor, which in turn impaired aiming accuracy, but this negative effect was effectively moderated by time and physics-associated visual feedback that enabled real-time sensorimotor compensation. While complex physical props reduced task performance, they substantially enhanced enjoyment and presence, particularly demonstrating a synergistic effect on users’ flow experience when combined with physics-associated visual feedback. These findings elucidate the complex interplay between physical prop interfaces and visual feedback in high-skill VR tasks, providing valuable insights for designing VR experiences which balance performance requirements and engagement enhancement. Full article

Self Determination Theory posits that individuals may be more likely to initiate and maintain behaviors tied to intrinsic (vs. extrinsic) motivations and may provide a useful framework for understanding youth participation in novel sports. Using the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) and Patient-Centered Assessment and Counseling for Exercise Plus Nutrition (PACE+) surveys, motivation and physical activity habits were explored in 27 children/adolescents (ages 7–16) enrolled in Parkour, an individual, non-competitive youth sport. Fifteen Parkour participants were also interviewed to gain an understanding of their motivations for participating. Study participants had high median IMI subscale scores related to interest/enjoyment (6.71/7) and perceived choice (6.40/7) compared to the whole scale. Similarly median sub-scale Pros and Self-Efficacy scores for physical activity from the PACE+ were high (4.25/5 and 3.91/5, respectively). The themes of autonomy and enjoyment were consistently reported in the qualitative interviews, expanding on the quantitative results. Other themes included appreciation for camaraderie, creativity, and a drive for improvement. These results provide early evidence that Parkour, and similar lifestyle sports, may be tied more to intrinsic than extrinsic motivations and could have potential for adoption and maintenance by youth with low motivation to engage in physical activity to promote healthy behaviors. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the effects of mindfulness exercises on the disruptive behaviors of young learners in EFL classes, along with gathering students’ perceptions of their experiences and the perceived change in disruptive behaviors of themselves and their peers. Thirty-nine third-grade students participated in the study and were assigned to the experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG). The EG engaged in mindfulness exercises at the beginning of English lessons for eight weeks, while the CG followed the regular EFL curriculum. Disruptive behaviors were assessed using a Video-based Observation Chart. Interviews were conducted with students to explore their perceptions of the intervention and its impact on their behavior and the behavior of their peers. The results indicated a significant decrease in overall disruptive behaviors in the EG compared to the CG. Participants reported positive experiences and enjoyment as well as perceived increase in attention skills, improvement in emotion regulation and emotional well-being. A minority of the participants stated that they did not observe any difference in the behaviors of some of their disruptive peers. The results indicated that incorporating mindfulness exercises into EFL classes can lead to a reduction in disruptive behaviors, improve students’ experiences, and create a more positive classroom climate. Full article

Background: Despite the well-documented physical and psychological benefits of regular physical activity (PA) and exercise, participation remains insufficient in adults with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). In the general population, PA enjoyment is a key determinant of sustained engagement, yet its predictors in CF populations remain underexplored. Objective: We aimed to examine associations between clinical parameters, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), motivation and PA enjoyment in adult pwCF. We hypothesised that higher intrinsic motivation and better HRQoL would predict greater enjoyment, independent of clinical parameters. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 197 adult pwCF (mean age = 36.6 ± 11.9 years) from a single centre completed validated questionnaires assessing PA and exercise enjoyment (Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale, PACES), motivation (Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2, BREQ-2), and HRQoL (Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised, CFQ-R). Hierarchical regression was conducted in three steps: clinical variables (Model 1), added HRQoL domains (Model 2), and motivational variables (Model 3). Results: The complete model explained 68.4% of the variance in PA and exercise enjoyment (R² = 0.684, p < 0.001). Intrinsic motivation was the strongest positive predictor (β = 6.228, p < 0.001), while external regulation negatively predicted enjoyment (β = −1.932, p = 0.030). Among HRQoL domains, only health perception remained significant (β = 0.081, p = 0.038). Clinical variables alone accounted for minimal variance (R² = 0.023, p = 0.370). Conclusions: Intrinsic motivation was the most robust predictor of PA and exercise enjoyment, outweighing clinical and most HRQoL factors. These findings support autonomy-supportive strategies to foster internal motivation and enhance long-term PA and exercise participation in adult pwCF. Full article

Children’s physical and mental wellbeing is declining, partly due to reduced independent mobility and lack of engaging public environments. This study explores a co-design approach in which children actively participated in a series of design workshops focused on improving school routes through sensory engagement and imagination. Using sensory walks, students mapped positive and negative experiences in their everyday surroundings. Through hands-on creative exercises and the integration of AI and VR tools, they developed design proposals envisioning safer, more enjoyable, and inclusive mobility environments. The findings reveal that while children are highly capable of generating creative and context-sensitive ideas, they are less accustomed to reflecting on sensory input beyond vision. The results underscore the importance of designing urban spaces that prioritize safety, playfulness, and multisensory richness, with particular emphasis on nature and emotional connection. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with severe physical and communication disabilities face many challenges. They have very limited opportunities for upright, hands-free, self-initiated mobility. Current findings in neuroscience and theories on child development suggest that self-initiated mobility can have positive cascading effects on various developmental areas, including language and communication. This study was conducted to examine the current use of hands-free support walkers with children who have severe physical and communication disabilities and use augmentative and alternative communication and to identify the benefits and problems perceived by their parents and professionals from different disciplines. Methods: Online surveys were utilized to collect information from 127 participants, including 31 parents and 96 professionals or paraprofessionals. Results: The participants reported that these children could perform various motor activities in the hands-free support walkers to achieve different goals. Benefits identified by both parents and professionals included providing a way to exercise and stay active, improving motor control, enhancing independence, and bringing enjoyment. Professionals also observed positive impacts on communication, vocalization, use of eye contact, and problem solving. Conclusions: Results suggest that children with severe physical and communication disabilities can benefit from the upright, hands-free, self-initiated mobility provided by hands-free support walkers. Clinical implications and needs for future research are discussed. Full article

Exercise plays a key role in managing type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and virtual reality (VR)-based exercise offers an innovative solution to increase motivation and deliver meaningful health benefits to patients who are often hesitant to engage in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability, usability, intention for future use, and preference of a VR-based cycling application, as well as to investigate the effects of VR-based exercise on the physiological, biochemical, and psychological parameters of individuals with T1DM compared to conventional exercise. This study represents a preliminary investigation with a small sample size of 11 patients with T1DM. Each participant underwent two 20 min low-intensity exercise trials. One session involved conventional cycling on a stationary ergometer, while the other used a VR-based cycling application. The two exercise conditions were conducted 48 h apart, without a formal washout period. According to the results, high scores were observed for preference, acceptance, and usability of the VR-based cycling application, and statistically significant improvements in mood and enjoyment were observed following the VR-based cycling compared to conventional cycling. Additionally, while no statistically significant differences were found in physiological parameters (blood glucose, blood pressure, and heart rate) between the two conditions, the VR-based session showed a trend toward greater reductions. In conclusion, the use of VR technology in the field of cycling exercise has great significance in improving the mood and engagement of T1DM patients in exercise programs, providing a user-friendly and well-accepted VR cycling application; subsequently, it has also shown preliminary potential for the regulation of biological parameters. Healthcare professionals could easily expand exercise protocols with the strengths of the VR technologies along with other health-related programs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Healthcare professions impose high physical and mental demands, potentially affecting health. Despite advocating for active lifestyles, many physiotherapists do not meet recommended physical activity levels (PALs). This study explores physical activity patterns and recreational engagement among practicing physiotherapists. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design examined the relationship between physical activity and recreational participation among 60 physiotherapists (38 females, 22 males, mean age 38.62 ± 9.78 years). Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and the Pittsburgh Enjoyable Activities Test (PEAT). The analysis focused on bivariate correlations between PAL, energy expenditure (MET), recreational habits (PEAT score), and sociodemographic and anthropometric variables. Results: The IPAQ-SF results indicated that 38.3% of participants had a low PAL, 40.0% a moderate level, and 21.7% a high level. Average energy expenditure was 1927.62 ± 1479.73 MET-minutes/week. PEAT data indicated moderate engagement in recreational activities (mean score: 22.63 ± 7.76), with participants predominantly involved in low-intensity, passive leisure. Significant positive correlations were observed between PEAT scores and both MET values (Kendall’s tau-b = 0.669, p ≤ 0.01) and PALs (Kendall’s tau-b = 0.804, p ≤ 0.01), indicating that higher engagement in recreational activities is associated with greater energy expenditure and overall physical activity levels. Conclusions: Despite the physical demands of their profession, many physiotherapists report low activity levels. The positive correlations between physical activity, energy expenditure, and recreational engagement highlight the need for structured exercise to support both personal health and professional integrity. Future research should include larger samples and objective assessments. Full article

Objectives: Type 1 diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemic episodes influenced by diet, sleep quality, chronotype, and physical activity, among others. While aerobic exercise is known to improve glycemic control, its effect on blood glucose regulation remains underexplored. Thus, this case study aimed to evaluate the effects of a prolonged and differentiated indoor and outdoor exercise intervention on glycemic control in an individual with type 1 diabetes. Methods: The participant (age: 23 years; weight: 95 kg; height: 1.90 m; Body Mass Index: 26.3 kg/m²; waist to hip ratio: 0.98; basal metabolic rate: 2015 kcal; Heart Rate Maximum (HRmax): 197 beats·min⁻¹) completed two outdoor (~3800 m) and two indoor sessions with self-selected speed, in the initial 2 min stage, at a 0% grade slope. The grade increased by 2% at each stage during the uphill phase until reaching volitional fatigue, followed by a 2% decrease at each stage during the downhill phase until returning to a 0% grade. Blood pressure was assessed before and after each session. Daily nutrition intake, insulin intake, and blood glucose were continuously monitored. Dietary adherence (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), chronotype (Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire), and physical activity levels (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were assessed before each session. The Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale was used to measure enjoyment after each session. Results: The sessions were completed in ~44 and ~39 min with the participant achieving 84% (outdoor) and 96% (indoor) of their theoretical HRmax. The intervention resulted in glycemic improvements, with time spent in hyperglycemia (>250 mg/dL) decreasing from 56.46% to 0%, while time in the normal range (70–180 mg/dL) increased to 63.96%. A 47% reduction in insulin units showed that insulin sensitivity also improved. Conclusions: Despite differences in intensity, indoor and outdoor activities yielded comparable benefits, with outdoor activities being perceived as more enjoyable (outdoor: 28.5 ± 0.7; indoor: 24.0 ± 5.6) and positively impacting glycemic control, thus supporting the need for tailored strategies in diabetes management. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aquagym is a form of practicing aerobic gymnastics to stay fit, which is constantly progressing in line with the dynamics of market growth and the fitness industry, bringing benefits to physical and mental health. The purpose of the study was to identify the level of popularity of this sport among people aged 20–65 years and to highlight the benefits of practicing aquagym. Methods: This quantitative research study was designed to use a structured questionnaire to collect data from 150 participants. The sample was chosen to reflect various age groups and to ensure representativeness for the general population interested in physical activity. Participants were divided by gender into two age categories, under 45 and over 45, in order to examine differences in preferences and perceptions between these age segments. For the analysis of between-group differences, we used the Chi-Square and Cramer’s V tests, and for the profile of respondents, a Two-Step Cluster Analysis was applied. Results: Regarding knowledge of the aquagym concept, there is a notable discrepancy between females and males, with significantly more women (54%) than men (18%) stating that they are familiar with this concept. Among the perceived benefits of water gymnastics, most responses indicate maintaining muscle tone (25% women and 14% men) and a fun way to stay fit (20% women and 11% men). Young people under 45 years of age tend to attach more importance to the social and entertaining aspects of aquagym. As for the improvement in quality of life by practicing water gymnastics, a large number of respondents (82%) rated this contribution with a score of 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale, meaning that the positive impact of this activity was highly appreciated. Conclusions: Aquagym lessons are perceived as both an effective form of exercise for health improvement and a means of socialization. The outcomes of the study highlight the opportunity to continuously promote and develop gymnastics in the aquatic environment as an accessible and enjoyable form of physical activity for all ages. Full article

Military schools primarily aim to prepare young people for the admission procedures of military academies. In this specific environment, the high overall load can generate burnout in cadets and the consequent failure to achieve scholastic and military objectives. The present study investigated how a training protocol based entirely on internal load and a reflective approach in a military-type school context affects participants’ physical efficacy, efficiency, and psychological outcomes. For this study, 63 cadets who were 17 years old from an Italian military school were recruited. Twenty-two of them were allocated into a control group (CG), twenty-one were allocated into a group exercising based on external load (EG), and twenty we allocated into a group exercising based on internal load (IG). All groups performed tests of physical efficacy (maximal tests) and physical efficiency (self-perception-based submaximal test) and answered psychological questionnaires to assess motivation, self-efficacy, and enjoyment. Group participants attended eight weeks of interventions in which physical education lessons were led as follows: the EG performed a circuit training at 50% of maximal repetitions, the IG performed a circuit training at value six on Borg’s scale, and the CG attended curricular physical education lessons. Tests were then repeated. The IG increased physical efficacy more than the EG and CG, while only the IG increased physical efficiency. The IG and EG improved in psychological variables more than the CG. Education in self-perception and self-regulation could help cadets better manage their psychophysical status, allowing them to reach the physical demands for academic admission. Full article

Background: Hypertension, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle are interrelated, forming a vicious cycle that deteriorates cardiovascular health. In addition to being a pathology, hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Interventions that combine weight loss and physical activity (PA) reduce cardiovascular risk, but many people face barriers in adhering to regular PA regimens such as a lack of time or motivation. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) has emerged as an innovative alternative to promote PA. This study explored the perceptions of individuals with hypertension and cardiovascular risk regarding the use of IVR as a tool for PA. Methods: Fifteen hypertensive adults with cardiovascular risk completed twelve IVR exercise sessions over thirty days. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Results: The thematic analysis identified three main themes: (1) PA, sedentary lifestyle, and health; (2) experiences and perceptions of IVR and PA; and (3) IVR as a useful and safe tool. The participants found IVR engaging, motivating, and effective in overcoming barriers such as a lack of time and social anxiety. Gamification and immersion facilitated greater adherence and enjoyment. Conclusions: The participants of this study perceived IVR as an innovative, engaging, and motivating tool for promoting PA. The participants positively valued IVR’s ability to overcome common barriers such as lack of time, adverse weather conditions, and lack of motivation, as well as its immersive and gamified features, which enhanced the adherence to and enjoyment of PA. These results suggest that IVR could complement traditional exercise programs by facilitating the initiation of active routines in sedentary individuals. Full article

In response to the global trend of population aging, the issue of providing elderly individuals suitable leisure and entertainment has become increasingly important. In this study, it aims to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) technology to offer the elderly with a healthy and enjoyable exercise and leisure experience. A human–machine interactive system is designed using computer vision, a subfield of AI, to promote positive physical adaptation for the elderly. The relevant literature on the needs of the elderly, technology, exercise, leisure, and AI techniques is reviewed. Case studies of interactive devices for exercise and leisure for the elderly, both domestically and internationally, are summarized to establish the prototype concept for system design. The proposed interactive exercise and leisure system is developed by integrating motion-sensing interfaces and real-time object detection using the YOLO algorithm. The system’s effectiveness is evaluated through questionnaire surveys and participant interviews, with the collected survey data analyzed statistically using IBM SPSS 26 and AMOS 23. Findings indicate that (1) AI technology provides new and enjoyable interactive experiences for the elderly’s exercise and leisure; (2) positive impacts are made on the elderly’s health and well-being; and (3) the system’s acceptance and attractiveness increase when elements related to personal experiences are incorporated into the system. Full article