Search Results (1,346)

Background: The relationship between sports participation and food preferences in adults, as well as the influence of gender, is still unclear. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between sports participation and individual food preferences and to explore potential gender differences among sports participants in a large group of Italian adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 2665 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) who lead normal lives and underwent a routine lifestyle and dietary assessment at a clinical centre specialising in nutrition, metabolic health, and lifestyle counselling in Rome. Participants completed an online questionnaire on food preferences (19 foods) and sports practice. Multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and smoking, were used to assess associations. Results: Sports participation was defined as engaging in structured physical activity at least once per week and was reported by 53.5% of subjects (men: 60.1%; women: 49.0%; p < 0.0001). After adjustment, active individuals were significantly more likely to prefer plant-based drinks, low-fat yoghurt, fish, cooked and raw vegetables, fruit, whole grains, tofu, and dark chocolate (all p < 0.05) and less likely to prefer cow’s milk (p = 0.018). Among sport participants, males were more likely to prefer meat (general, white, red, processed) and eggs, while females preferred plant-based drinks. No significant gender differences were observed for dairy products, legumes, or fish. Differences in food preferences were also observed according to the type of sport, with bodybuilders showing higher preference for tofu and dark chocolate. The strongest associations were found in the 25–44 age group. Conclusions: Sports participation is independently associated with specific food preferences, characterised by greater preference for plant-based and fibre-rich foods, and gender differences in food choices persist even among active adults. These findings highlight the need to consider both sports participation and gender when designing nutritional interventions. Full article

Objective: Considering the absence of research testing the entire sequence of passion, behavioral regulation, and subjective well-being (SWB), this study aimed to analyze the hypothetical causal relationships between the variables of a model that integrates the Dualistic Passion Model (DMP) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) in order to understand the impact of harmonious passion (HP) and obsessive passion (OP) and the regulation of motivation on the SWB of elite athletes with disability. Method: This study includes 143 elite athletes from national adapted sports (36 female; 107 male) aged between 15 and 59 (M = 29.21; SD = 10.45). Weekly training sessions ranged from 1 to 12 (M = 4.52; SD = 2.71), and the years of competitive practice ranged from 1 to 28 (M = 5.55; SD = 6.98). Data were collected using valid and reliable questionnaires for the study population and analyzed using structural equation analysis. The following results were identified: a positive and a significant effect between OP and self-determination motivation (SDM); a positive but not a significant effect between OP and non-self-determination motivation (NSDM); a significant effect between SDM and SWL and SDM and positive affect (PA); and, finally, a positive but non-significant effect between SDM and negative affect (NA). In contrast, there is a positive and significant effect between HP and SDM; a negative and significant effect between HP and NSDM; a positive but non-significant effect between NSDM and SWL; a negative and significant effect between NSDM and PA; and, finally, a positive and significant effect between NSDM and NA. Conclusions: The perception of passion regarding sport can be a positive predictor of SDM, which, in turn, can influence levels of SWB, both from a cognitive point of view (SWL) and from an emotional point of view (PA). This reinforces the positive effect of the self-determination behavior in adapted sport on SWB and its contribution to health and quality of life in people with disabilities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Studies have reported that female athletes often exhibit low levels of nutritional knowledge and inadequate dietary intake to meet their nutritional needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nutritional education intervention on nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, and body composition in female handball players (n = 45; age, 17.6 ± 2.1 years). Methods: A quasi-experimental intervention design was implemented, consisting of a 3-week educational program delivered through six in-person sessions led by a registered dietitian. Nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and anthropometric and body composition measurements were assessed. Results: Nutrition knowledge levels were significantly higher both immediately post-intervention and three months later compared to baseline (p < 0.05, ES > 0.8). A total of 36 participants completed a 3-day dietary record at baseline and at follow-up. Initial assessments revealed insufficient energy (31 kcal/kg/day) and carbohydrate intake (3.0 g/kg/day) and a high intake of total fats (1.4 g/kg/day). During follow-up, a significant decrease in the consumption of foods rich in sugar was observed (p = 0.0272). A total of 82.2% of the players needed to improve their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. No significant changes were found in Mediterranean diet adherence or body composition following the intervention. Conclusions: The nutritional education intervention significantly improved athletes’ nutritional knowledge and significantly decreased their consumption of sugary foods; however, further studies are needed to evaluate its impact on dietary intake and body composition, considering the study’s limitations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sprinting is a fundamental locomotor skill and a key indicator of lower limb strength and anaerobic power in early childhood. The aim of the study was to examine possible differences in the step kinematic parameters and their contribution to sprint speed between children with different patterns of speed development. Methods: 65 prepubescent male and female track athletes (33 males and 32 females; 6.9 ± 0.8 years old) were examined in a maximal 15 m short sprint running test, where photocells measured time for each 5 m segment. At the last 5 m segment, step length, frequency, and velocity were evaluated via a video analysis method. The symmetry angle was calculated for the examined step kinematic parameters. Results: Based on the speed at the final 5 m segment of the test, two groups were identified, the maximum sprint phase (MAX) and the acceleration phase (ACC) group. Speed was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in ACC in the final 5 m segment, while there was a significant (p < 0.05) interrelationship between step length and frequency in ACC but not in MAX. No other differences were observed. Conclusions: The difference observed in the interrelationship between speed and step kinematic parameters between ACC and MAX highlights the importance of identifying the speed development pattern to apply individualized training stimuli for the optimization of training that can lead to better conditioning and wellbeing of children involved in sports with requirements for short-sprint actions. Full article

Background: Midfacial fractures are common outcomes of facial trauma. While younger individuals typically sustain these injuries through high-energy events like assaults and traffic or sports accidents, elderly patients increasingly present with fractures from low-energy mechanisms, primarily falls. Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze age- and gender-specific patterns in midfacial fractures over a 10-year period, with emphasis on elderly individuals and low-energy trauma. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of proven midfacial fractures between 2013 and 2022 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (University of Pécs, Hungary). The patients were stratified by age (<65 vs. ≥65 years) and gender. The variables included the injury mechanism, fracture localization, the dental status, hospitalization, and the presence of associated injuries. Bivariate analyses were performed, and the significance level was set to p < 0.05. Results: A total of 957 radiologically confirmed midfacial fracture cases were evaluated, of whom 344 (35.9%) were ≥65 years old. In the elderly group, females had a 19-fold higher risk for midfacial trauma than younger females (OR: 19.1, 95%CI: 9.30–39.21). In the older group, a fall was significantly the most frequent injury mechanism (OR: 14.5; 95%CI: 9.9–21.3), responsible for 89.5% of the cases, while hospitalization (OR: 0.36; 95%CI: 0.23–0.56) was less characteristic. Most of the fractures occurred in the zygomatic bone, in the zygomaticomaxillary complex, or in the anterior wall of the maxilla. Associated injuries in the elderly group included mostly lower limb injuries—particularly pertrochanteric femoral fractures in females—and upper limb injuries, with a slight male dominance. Conclusions: Low-energy falls are the primary cause of midfacial fractures in elderly patients, particularly in women. Tailored prevention and management strategies are essential for improving the outcomes in this growing demographic group. Full article

Laboratory-based assessment of cardiorespiratory function is a widely applied method in sports science. Most performance evaluations focus on oxygen uptake parameters. Despite the well-established concept of oxygen deficit introduced by Hill in the 1920s, relatively few studies have examined its behavior during submaximal exercise, with limited exploration of deficit dynamics. The present study aimed to analyze the behavior of oxygen deficit in young female handball players (N = 42, age: 15.4 ± 1.3 years) during graded exercise. Oxygen deficit was estimated using the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) algorithm, restricted to subanaerobic threshold segments of a quasi-ramp exercise protocol. Cardiorespiratory parameters were measured with the spiroergometry test on treadmills, and body composition was assessed via Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). Cluster and principal component analyzes revealed two distinct athlete profiles with statistically significant differences in both morphological and physiological traits. Cluster 2 showed significantly higher relative VO₂ peak (51.43 ± 3.70 vs. 45.70 ± 2.87 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.76), yet also exhibited a greater oxygen deficit per kilogram (39.03 ± 16.71 vs. 32.56 ± 14.33 mL·kg⁻¹; p = 0.018; d = 0.80). Cluster 1 had higher absolute body mass (69.67 ± 8.13 vs. 59.66 ± 6.81 kg; p < 0.001), skeletal muscle mass (p < 0.001), and fat mass (p < 0.001), indicating that body composition strongly influenced oxygen deficit values. The observed differences in oxygen deficit profiles suggest a strong influence of genetic predispositions, particularly in cardiovascular and muscular oxygen utilization capacity. Age also emerged as a critical factor in determining the potential for adaptation. Oxygen deficit during submaximal exercise appears to be a multifactorial phenomenon shaped by structural and physiological traits. While certain influencing factors can be modified through training, others especially those of genetic origin pose inherent limitations. Early development of cardiorespiratory capacity may offer the most effective strategy for long-term optimization. Full article

This study aimed to compare isometric strength, range of motion (RoM), and strength ratios of shoulder internal and external rotators between female volleyball and hand ball players Twenty-five volleyball players (age = 21.8 ± 4.8 years, height = 178.5 ± 7.1 cm, mass = 69.3 ± 7.7 kg) and twenty-four handball players (age = 19.5 ± 2.9 years, height = 169.7 ± 6.4 cm, mass = 67.6 ± 8.4 kg), all competing in the Slovenian 1st national league, participated. Maximal isometric strength and passive RoM of internal and external rotation were measured bilaterally using a handheld dynamometer and goniometer, respectively. A significant group × side interaction was observed for internal rotation RoM (F = 5.41; p = 0.024; η² = 0.10), with volleyball players showing lower RoM on the dominant side (p = 0.001; d = 0.89), but this was not the case for handball players (p = 0.304). External rotation strength also showed a significant interaction (F = 9.34; p = 0.004; η² = 0.17); volleyball players were stronger in the non-dominant arm (p = 0.033), while handball players were stronger in the dominant arm (p = 0.041). The external-to-internal rotation strength ratio was significantly lower on the dominant side in volleyball players compared to handball players (p = 0.047; d = 0.59). Findings suggest sport-specific adaptations and asymmetries in shoulder function, emphasizing the need for sport-specific and individually tailored injury prevention strategies. Volleyball players, in particular, may benefit from targeted strengthening of external rotators and flexibility training to address imbalances. Full article

Rowing is a cyclic sport that consists of repetitive biomechanical actions, with performance being influenced by the balance between propulsive and resistive forces. The current study aimed to assess the relationships between intracycle velocity variation (IVV) and key biomechanical and performance variables in male and female single scullers. Twenty-three experienced rowers (10 females) completed a 2000 m rowing competition, during which boat position and velocity were measured using a 15 Hz GPS, while cycle rate was derived from the integrated triaxial accelerometer sampling at 100 Hz. From these data, it was possible to calculate distance per cycle, IVV, the coefficient of velocity variation (CVV), and technical index values. Males presented higher mean, maximum and minimum velocity, distance per cycle, CVV, and technical index values than females (15.40 ± 0.81 vs. 13.36 ± 0.88 km/h, d = 0.84; 21.39 ± 1.68 vs. 18.77 ± 1.52 km/h, d = 1.61; 11.15 ± 1.81 vs. 9.03 ± 0.85 km/h, d = 1.45; 7.68 ± 0.32 vs. 6.89 ± 0.97 m, d = 0.69; 14.13 ± 2.02 vs. 11.64 ± 1.93%, d = 2.06; and 34.25 ± 4.82 vs. 26.30 ± 4.23 (m²/s·cycle), d = 4.56, respectively). An association between mean velocity and intracycle IVV, CVV, and cycle rate (r = 0.68, 0.74 and 0.65, respectively) was observed in males but not in female single scullers (which may be attributed to anthropometric specificities). In female single scullers, mean velocity was related with distance per cycle and was associated with technical index in both males and females (r = 0.76 and 0.66, respectively). Despite these differences, male and female single scullers adopted similar pacing strategies and CVV remained constant throughout the 2000 m race (indicating that this variable might not be affected by fatigue). Differences were also observed in the velocity–time profile, with men reaching peak velocity first and having a faster propulsive phase. Data provided new information on how IVV and CVV relate to commonly used biomechanical variables in rowing. Technical index (r = 0.87): distance per cycle was associated with technical index in both males and females (r = 0.76 and 0.66, respectively). Future studies should include other boat classes and other performance variables such as the power output and arc length. Full article

The heart is innervated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which plays a role in regulating the heart rate. Cross-country mountain biking (MTBXC) is a sport with high physiological demands, where the autonomic nervous system plays a significant role. The main objective of this study was to analyze the asymmetry of heart rate in Colombian National Team mountain bikers, sub-23 category, during a 20 min cardiovascular autonomic profile test. Method: The cardiovascular autonomic profile was measured through heart rate variability during a 20 min test, divided into eight phases (supine, controlled ventilation at 10 cycles/min, controlled ventilation at 12 cycles/min, postural change, orthostasis, Ruffier test, 1 min recovery, and final recovery) in a group of n = 10 MTB cyclists from the National Sub-23 Team, including 5 males and 5 females. Results: The results for the male athletes were as follows: age: 19 ± 1 years; VO2max: 67.5 mL/kg/min; max power: 355 W; HRmax: 204 bpm. The results for the female athletes were as follows: age: 19 ± 1 years; VOmax: 58.5 mL/kg/min; max power: 265 W; HRmax: 194 bpm. Both genders showed the expected autonomic behavior in each phase. Asymmetrical propagation of heart rate was observed, with a greater deceleration pattern after postural changes and effort and a symmetrical acceleration pattern in these two phases. Discussion: Athletes exhibit increased vagal response compared to non-athletes. Mountain bikers show rapid heart rate reduction after exertion. Conclusion: This study demonstrates how mountain bikers exhibit increased heart rate deceleration following sympathetic stimuli. Full article

Background: Soccer is a physically demanding sport characterized by frequent high-intensity efforts, which are particularly relevant in women’s competitions. Improving high-speed running and aerobic capacity has been linked to better on-field performance. Strength training has shown promise in enhancing these physical attributes, but its application in young female soccer players remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 10-week in-season strength training program on physical performance and match running demands in young female soccer players. Methods: Thirty-two U18 Danish female professional soccer players from two comparable teams voluntarily participated in the study. Teams were allocated to either an experimental group, performing twice-weekly strength training (EG, n = 16) or a control group (CG, n = 16). Vertical jump performance and Yo-Yo IR2 performance as an estimation for maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) were assessed both pre and post intervention. Additionally, players’ match external demands (i.e., total distance, distance covered at speeds above 23 km·h⁻¹, and maximum velocity achieved) were monitored using Global Positioning System devices during four matches before and after the intervention. Results: Significant within-group differences were observed across all variables for the EG (p = 0.001; ES = 1.08 to 1.45, large), without differences in the CG (p > 0.01). Between-group analysis indicated significant differences favoring the EG in all variables (F = 27.40 to 47.17; p = 0.001). Conclusions: The application of a 10-week strength training program led to improvements in physical and match running performance among young female soccer players, underscoring the importance of incorporating strength training programs into female soccer periodization to enhance performance. Full article

Background: Sports performance indicators are mainly based on male athletes, highlighting the importance of portraying the female reality, particularly in rural contexts. This study aims to characterize sports performance indicators (body composition and physical fitness) of young Portuguese female athletes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 124 girls (13.66 ± 1.93 years) participating in federated team sports in a rural region of Portugal. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance, and physical fitness was evaluated through vertical jump tests (countermovement jump and squat jump), sprint (20 m), agility (T-test), handgrip strength, and cardiovascular endurance (Yo-Yo IR1). Results: Volleyball players are taller; football and basketball players are heavier; football and volleyball players have more fat-free mass than handball players (p < 0.05). Body mass index and % body fat did not differ between sports (p > 0.05). Volleyball players performed better in the countermovement jump (F = 4.146, p = 0.008) and squat jump (F = 7.686, p < 0.001) when compared to basketball, football, and handball players. No differences were observed in the speed or cardiorespiratory endurance tests (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The results revealed that, despite some specific differences between sports, most physical fitness indicators did not differ significantly between sports after controlling for age, menarche, and training experience. These findings suggest that shared contextual limitations in rural regions may take precedence over sport-specific adaptations in the early stages of sports participation. Full article

Rugby Union is a high-impact sport with considerable injury risk, especially in emerging rugby settings where structured physical preparation may be limited. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological profile and injury incidence among Rugby Union players in Brazil, providing insights to inform strength and conditioning strategies. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024 using a digital questionnaire that captured demographic data, sports participation history, and detailed information about injuries sustained in 2022 and 2023. A total of 236 players participated (58.9% male; mean age = 29.4 ± 7.5 years), with males averaging 29.6 ± 7.7 years and females 29.1 ± 7.5 years. Overall, 183 injuries were reported. Most injuries occurred during matches (73.3%) and were contact-related (82.1%), with the shoulder/clavicle and knee being the most affected regions. Ligament injuries (27.3%), dislocations (15.3%), and fractures (16.4%) were the most prevalent types. Female players had a distinct injury pattern, with a greater proportion of non-contact mechanisms. Significant associations were found between injury occurrence and sex (p = 0.012), playing modality (p < 0.001), injury type (p = 0.013), and recovery time (p = 0.006). These findings highlight the urgent need for tailored strength and conditioning interventions focused on injury prevention and athletic preparedness. Such programs should address sport-specific demands, promote neuromuscular resilience, and be accessible across competitive levels to improve performance and minimize injury-related setbacks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI), defined as the involuntary loss of urine, is common among female athletes. As more women engage in competitive sports, numerous studies have explored UI in young, nulliparous, and physically active women. The objectives of this study were (i) to analyze the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of UI in professional nulliparous female soccer players and (ii) to compare the status of the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) between professional soccer players and physically active young women. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included professional soccer players (n = 18) and physically active women (n = 14). UI was assessed using the ICIQ-SF questionnaire, and PFM function was evaluated through intracavitary examination using the PERFECT method. Additional data were collected on body composition and on urinary, bowel, and sexual health. Results: UI affected 35.7% of physically active women and 50% of professional soccer players. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) was the most common type, present in 100% of affected soccer players and 60% of affected active women. The severity of UI was mostly mild, with no significant differences between groups. PFM assessment revealed deficiencies in control, relaxation, endurance, and rapid contractions, as well as difficulties performing an effective perineal locking (PL) maneuver during increased intra-abdominal pressure. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for targeted programs focused on strengthening and educating athletes about their PFMs, aiming to prevent UI and improve both performance and quality of life. The study reinforces the importance of preventive strategies for pelvic floor health in sports. Full article

Background and Objectives: Although the use of allografts in revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is associated with theoretical advantages, it has historically led to poorer clinical results and lower survival rates. However, the heterogeneity of the available literature makes it difficult to elucidate the effectiveness of allographs, as most of the studies published do not make any reference to some of the key aspects related to the processing of the allograft employed. The present study analyzed the clinical results and the survival of allografts in patients undergoing revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with a well-characterized, single type of allograft. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study analyzing a series of patients undergoing revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with an Achilles tendon allograft with a bone block (FlexiGraft, LifeNet Health), subjected to low-dose irradiation at dry ice temperatures. Preoperative and follow-up clinical variables (IKDC, pain, hop test, and YBT scores) were recorded. Survival was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier methodology. Results: A total of 39 patients (34 male, 5 female) were included in the study. The mean patient age was 37.3 years and mean postoperative follow-up was 78.7 months. Forty-one percent of patients were competitive athletes, and all of the patients in the sample exhibited preoperative instability. The mean allograft thickness was 9.2 mm. During surgery, 51.3% of patients required meniscus repair and 20.5% had to be treated for chondral defects. At the last follow-up visit, 92.3% of the subjects presented with IKDC grade A and 7.7% with IKDC grade B. The mean subjective IKDC score was 0.79 and mean pain intensity was 1.15 according to the VAS scale. Limb symmetry, as measured by the various hop tests and the Y balance test, were within the safety range, with 74.4% of patients succeeding in returning to their previous level of sport. Ten-year survival was estimated at 97.4%. Conclusions: Allografts obtained and processed following the current regulations governing patient selection and graft harvesting, which are additionally processed without recourse to chemical procedures and sterilized at less than 2 MRad in dry ice conditions, represent an effective and safe alternative in revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Full article

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability face an increased risk of mental health issues compared to the general population. Despite the proven efficacy of physical activity (PA) in improving anxiety and depression in the general population, little is known about this relationship in adults with intellectual disability and the factors that influence it. The purpose of the study was to determine whether a correlation exists between PA and perceived levels of anxiety and depression, and assess gender disparities in PA and mental health. Method: People with intellectual disability were recruited from day centers and sports events. The amount of PA was evaluated through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Perceived mental health was assessed through the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety (ZAS) and Depression Scale (ZDS). Results: In total, 99 adults (34 females, aged 33 ± 12) participated in the study. A gender disparity was found in anxiety levels, while depression, PA, and type of sport participation did not differ between males and females. Multiple regression analysis highlights how the depression score was significantly predicted by gender (β = −3.57, p = 0.015), intellectual disability level (β =−3.08, p < 0.008), and PA (β =−0.10, p= 0.001), while anxiety was influenced by gender (β = −4.48, p = 0.003) and intellectual disability level (β = −3.23, p = 0.007). Conclusions: These findings underscore the relevance of physical activity as a factor associated with lower depressive symptoms in adults with intellectual disability, highlighting its potential role in mental health promotion within this population. Full article