Search Results (243)

Background: Sport plays an important role in the health promotion of people with cerebral palsy (CP). However, risk factors may impair sport performance and health in non-ambulatory athletes. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore body composition and bone health in a group of world-class Boccia players with CP. Methods: Five BC2-class players with CP, aged 15–42 years old, were assessed using Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) for body composition and bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC). The fat mass index (kg/m²) was used to define obesity, and the BMD Z-score used to analyze bone health. A preliminary indicator of sarcopenia was considered using the appendicular lean mass index. Results: Players 1 and 3 exhibited similar body compositions (obesity class 1 and BMD Z-score are below the expected range for age). Player 5 exhibited multiple health-related risk factors. The results regarding youth players (Player 2 and Player 4) should be analyzed with caution. Conclusions: Overall, due to Boccia’s specific characteristics, players may benefit from close monitoring by multidisciplinary teams and supplementary strategies (e.g., strength training, individualized diet plans) to promote quality of life and performance. However, further research is needed to confirm the data, since these preliminary findings do not allow for broader generalizations. Full article

Background/Objectives: In powerlifting, velocity indicators and skin temperature have been utilized to control training loads for both conventional athletes and athletes with disabilities. Therefore, the present study evaluated maximum velocity (Vmax), mean propulsive velocity (MPV), power (POWER) output, and skin temperature (ST) following a 5 × 5 training session at 80% of one-repetition maximum (1RM) in conventional powerlifters (CP) and paralympic powerlifters (PP). Methods: A total of 24 male athletes (12 CP and 12 PP) underwent a 5 × 5 training session at 80% 1RM. Post-session, velocity indicators, power output, and ST were assessed at 45% 1RM. Results: Only the CP group exhibited significant differences in Vmax (p < 0.015), MPV (p < 0.007), and power output (p < 0.022) between time points. Regarding ST, only the PP group showed differences (p < 0.004) in the sternal portion of the pectoral major. For the long head of the triceps brachii, differences were observed between groups in the post-session measurement (p > 0.024) and for the PP group only in the post-session measurement (p < 0.002). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that in following a traditional training session (80% 1RM), assessments at 45% 1RM revealed different effects in velocity, power output, and ST measures between CP and PP groups. These findings suggest that within the same sport discipline, training variables may have distinct impacts across different categories of athletes, and further research is needed to evaluate these different responses. Full article

Wheelchair basketball (WB) grants important benefits for people with disabilities but also presents a relevant risk of injury. Wheelchair straps are restraint devices that can improve safety and performance, but limited research has explored their use in WB. This study aims to analyze the use of different types of straps among professional WB players, according to classification score. A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey. Participants were divided into two groups based on classification score: low-point players (LPPs; 1.0–2.5), who have greater physical impairment, and high-point players (HPPs; 3.0–4.5), who have lower physical impairment. A total of 82 WB players participated (43 LPPs; 39 HPPs). The Chi-squared test was used to compare variables between groups. Significant differences emerged: chest (p = 0.036), abdominal (p = 0.036), and foot (p = 0.016) straps were more frequently used by LPPs, while thigh (p = 0.020) and leg (p = 0.050) straps were more common among HPPs. No significant difference was found for pelvic strap. Straps used in WB vary with classification score, reflecting the influence of functional ability. These findings offer insights into individualized wheelchair setup and classification procedures. Further studies are needed to expand knowledge on this topic. Full article

Background: Sports scientists have increasingly used point-of-care methods for training load management, and blood gas analysis has shown promise in this area. However, the reproducibility of this method in high-performance athletes remains unproven. Objective: The aim of this study was to verify the reliability of acid-base variables at rest in high-performance Paralympic sprinters. Methods: Seven athletes participated, including four with visual impairments (class T12 and T13) and three with physical impairments. Approximately 500 µL of capillary blood was obtained from the fingertip and analyzed in triplicate (Samples 1, 2, and 3) using the Epoc System^® (Ottawa, ON, Canada) to measure pH, carbonic dioxide partial pressure (pCO₂), bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻), base excess (BE), hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), creatinine (CRE), and urea concentration (URE). Results: No differences were found for any parameter (p > 0.05). The imprecision of the method ranged from 0.1% for blood pH to 6.1% for BE. Pearson’s analysis showed strong and significant relationships between all variables analyzed (p < 0.05). The degree of consistency among samples also indicated excellent reliability of measurements, ranging from 0.88 for Hb to 1.00 for URE. Conclusions: These results indicate that acid-base status measurements using point-of-care demonstrated excellent reliability in high-level athletes, supporting sports scientists and coaches for athlete training and management. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cold-water immersion (CWI) on post-training recovery in Kung Fu athletes. Methods: In a 3-week crossover design, 16 Kung Fu athletes (22.00 ± 5.95 years, 76.90 ± 9.74 kg) were divided into two conditions: CWI and passive recovery as a control (CON) measure. Through the study, muscle damage markers (creatine kinase [CK], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and alanine aminotransferase [ALT]), physical performance tests (upper limbs power, SJ and CMJ), skin temperature (from lower and upper limbs), and skin temperature asymmetries were measured. Results: CWI resulted in a higher reduction of CK concentration than CON 24 h after the intervention (−21.32%; p < 0.001). The SJ height 24 h after the intervention was higher in the CWI than in the CON (p < 0.001). Both CWI and CON resulted in skin temperature returning to baseline levels 24 h after intervention. Conclusions: CWI was effective in restoring muscle power, reducing muscle damage and reducing body temperature (BT) in Kung Fu athletes. Cold water recovery showed better muscle power and strength 24 and 48 h after training when compared to the passive method. CK and skin temperature were better 24 h after cold water recovery. Full article

Wheelchair tennis (WT) is a Paralympic sport designed for athletes with physical impairments. Assessing physical fitness characteristics using appropriate field-based tests and standardized protocols is essential for individualized training, injury prevention, and performance monitoring. However, there is currently limited information on which field-based tests are most suitable and how they should be applied in WT athletes, resulting in inconsistency across studies and practical use. Establishing a standard operating procedure (SOP) enables replicable, cost-effective testing routines that improve data consistency and comparability. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize the existing evidence on field-based physical fitness assessment in WT athletes and to propose a structured SOP for these tests. A comprehensive search was conducted in three electronic databases—NLM PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus—using predefined keywords and Boolean operators. The inclusion criteria were limited to peer-reviewed, English-language original articles focusing exclusively on field tests in WT athletes. Studies with other populations, reviews, and abstracts were excluded. Eleven studies met the eligibility criteria. This scoping review identified various field tests assessing key fitness components, including cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength, agility, and body composition. The most frequently employed tests were the 20 m sprint test, isometric handgrip test, spider test, Illinois Agility Test, and skinfold thickness. These findings highlight the lack of standardized fitness assessments in WT. The proposed SOP offers a practical step toward consistent, replicable, and relevant evaluation in these athletes. Full article

This study explores the development of reflective thinking among Physical Education Teachers (PETs) through a professional development program grounded in Paralympic values and inclusive education. Employing a qualitative action research design, the study involved seven PETs teaching in Greek primary schools. The intervention lasted ten weeks and comprised 20 Physical Education lessons, during which data were collected via semi-structured interviews, reflective journals, and non-participatory observation. The findings indicate a progressive shift in the teachers’ reflective thinking—from Technical Reflection to Practical and Critical Reflection—as defined in van Manen’s theoretical model. Most participants initially demonstrated a practical orientation but gradually developed a critical stance, incorporating values such as fairness, inclusion, and respect for diversity into their pedagogical thinking. Furthermore, the results revealed increased student sensitivity toward inclusive practices and a more democratic classroom climate. These findings suggest that targeted professional development programs can foster deeper reflective engagement and promote inclusive practices within Physical Education. This study highlights the potential of Paralympic values as meaningful educational content and reinforces the role of Physical Education as a catalyst for social inclusion and teacher professional growth. Full article

Emotional processes and sleep quality have become fundamental aspects of performance in Paralympic sports among elite and youth athletes. The objective of this study was to compare levels of depression, stress, anxiety, and sleep quality among youth and adult athletes with cerebral palsy (CP) belonging to the national CP Football team in Chile. A total of 10 adult and 12 youth national team athletes participated, completing the DASS-21, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaires. The athletes were competing in their respective categories at the 2024 Parapan American Games. A cross-sectional design was used to compare the parameters of depression, stress, anxiety, and sleep quality of youth and adult male athletes with CP of a national team selected to compete in a regional event. Significant differences were found where young athletes had lower levels of depression (χ² = 4.77, p = 0.02, OR = 11.0) and anxiety (χ² = 6.71, p = 0.01, OR = 16.5). Similar differences could be observed in favor of young athletes in sleep latency (p = 0.04; d = 0.34), bedtime (p = 0.02; d = 0.20), total hours of sleep (p = 0.04; d = 0.10), subjective sleep quality (p = 0.002; d = 0.56), and objective sleep quality (p < 0.001; d = 0.65). This study suggests that adult para-athletes from a national CP Football team exhibit higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to their youth counterparts. Additionally, objective and subjective measures show that adults experience poorer sleep quality. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions by psychological support teams, aiming to enhance athlete performance by promoting healthy habits that address these mental health challenges. Full article

The aim of the study was to verify the relationship between musculoskeletal pain of elite Polish goalball players and selected physique and posture characteristics. We examined 12 players. The mean age was 21.8 ± 6.0 years, and a mean training experience of 6.3 ± 3.4 years. Physique (body mass, body height, waist circumference, fat tissue, fat-free soft tissue) and posture (thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis) and range of motion (in the thoracic and lumbar regions) were assessed. The incidences and locations of musculoskeletal pain were identified using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, covering the period from the last seven days (NMQ-7) and six months (NMQ-6). Due to the small group size, non-parametric tests (Spearman’s rank correlation) were used. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Players were more likely to report musculoskeletal pain in the last six months than in the previous week. Pain reported in both NMQ6 and NMQ7 was most common in the wrists/hands and lower back, and, in NMQ6, also in the shoulders and ankles/feet. There were significant negative correlations of total NMQ7 with lumbar lordosis angle in the habitual standing position (R = −0.6; p = 0.04), trunk flexion (R = −0.8, p = 0.002), and trunk extension (R = −0.6; p = 0.03), and a positive correlation with thoracic kyphosis angle in trunk flexion (R = 0.8, p = 0.005). There was a statistically significant, inversely proportional relationship of thoracic kyphosis angle values in the habitual position (R = −0.58; p = 0.049) and thoracic kyphosis angle THA in trunk flexion (R = −0.6; p = 0.038) with time of disability. Relationships between some body posture parameters and musculoskeletal pain in the studied athletes were also noted. Full article

Wearable technology can nowadays be used to improve para-swimming coaching; however, the extent to which individual anatomy affects features of swimming variability is unclear. Six paralympic swimmers were recruited, their upper-limb segment lengths were measured, and their absolute bilateral limb asymmetry indices (${AbsLAI}_{UL}$) were calculated. They were instrumented with a sacrum-worn inertial measurement unit and performed an in-water, fatiguing, freestyle aerobic test at incrementally faster paces. Stroke-to-stroke outcome and execution variability were calculated, respectively, using sample entropy (SampEn) and fractal dimension (FD) on forward and mediolateral linear acceleration signals. Significantly increased perceived exertion scores (F(4,28) = 154.1, p < 0.001) were observed. Execution and outcome variability increased in the forward (SampEn = F(4,25) = 11.86, p < 0.001; FD = F(4,24) = 6.17, p = 0.001) and mediolateral (SampEn = F(4,25) = 9.46, p < 0.001; FD = F(4,24) = 27.64, p < 0.001) directions. Modelling of FD (only) improved with ${AbsLAI}_{UL}$ as a covariate (forward = F(1,24) = 9.68, p = 0.005; mediolateral = F(1,24) = 8.57, p = 0.021), suggesting that ${AbsLAI}_{UL}$ affects only execution, but not outcome, variability. This information could help coaches determine which coordination indices should be personalized when monitoring variability during para-swimming training. Full article

Introduction: Para-cycling is a competitive sport governed by the World Body for Cycling, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), encompassing various cycling disciplines tailored to athletes with physical or visual impairments. This study aimed to prospectively monitor the incidence of injury and illness in Para cyclists during the 2024 Paralympic season. Methods: This prospective, observational study included ten professional Para cyclists (five male, five female) with impairments ranging from spinal cord-related, neuromuscular, and musculoskeletal conditions to vision impairment. The definitions of an ‘athlete health problem’, ‘injury’, and ‘illnesses’ followed the Para sport translation of the IOC consensus. Injury and illness data were collected weekly using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems V2 (OSTRC-H2), with the addition of subjective markers of well-being and training load, between February 2024 and October 2024. All medical contacts for any injury or illness were logged in line with consensus statement recommendations. Results: The OSTRC-H2 questionnaire had a response rate of 76.5% (±12.2%, range 55–88%) across the 35 weeks. Athletes reported 7.36 (95% CI: 5.41–9.46) health problems per 365 days, with a medical attention rate of 5.56 (95% CI: 3.91–7.36) per 365 days. The overall injury rate was 1.94 per 365 athlete days (95% CI: 1.23–2.93), with a higher incidence in males (2.44, 95% CI: 1.53–3.67) than in females (1.51, 95% CI: 0.68–2.95). Conversely, illness rates were higher in females (5.40, 95% CI: 3.00–8.11) than in males (1.80, 95% CI: 0.60–3.30), with an overall illness rate of 3.60 per 365 days (95% CI: 2.29–5.10). Conclusions: This is the first study to present prospective injury and illness epidemiology rates in Para cyclists in combination with subjective well-being markers. The findings underscore the importance and feasibility of longitudinal health monitoring in Para cyclists, ensuring that both physical and mental health concerns are systematically tracked and addressed. This enables a proactive, multidisciplinary support system to respond effectively to fluctuations in well-being, particularly during periods of injury or illness. Full article

This study aimed to analyze the in-match physical requirements of cerebral palsy football (CP football) players over an entire national league season (56 matches) and their relationship with team performance-related metrics. Key variables examined included total distance, distance at different intensities, acceleration/deceleration patterns, and ball contacts at various intensities. Statistical analyses (one-way ANOVA, t-tests, Pearson’s correlations, and multiple linear regressions) were conducted to identify differences and predictive relationships between these physical requirements and team success indicators (ranking position, points, and goal-related outcomes). Higher-ranked teams covered significantly greater total and walking distances (t = 2.73 and 3.09, p < 0.01). Total distance had the strongest relationship with team performance (r = 0.91–0.99, R² = 0.82–0.99), followed by walking and low-intensity distances (r = 0.71–0.92, R² = 0.66–0.88) and certain acceleration/deceleration actions. In contrast, no significant differences were found in high-intensity actions or ball contact patterns between teams with different performance-related outcomes. These findings suggest that success in CP football is closely related to total distance, particularly at low intensities, indicating a strong connection between physical requirements and tactical strategies. These insights are valuable for coaches and sports professionals, helping to optimize match strategies and training approaches to enhance team performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: International-level competition opportunities have recently been introduced for female footballers with cerebral palsy (CP), highlighting a gap in the research on their physical performance during matches. The objectives of this study were (I) to describe the physical responses during the 2022 Women’s World Cup of football players with cerebral palsy (CP) and (II) to analyze the differences in physical responses based on the players’ sport class (i.e., FT1, FT2, and FT3). Methods: Physical responses were recorded using global positioning devices (GPS) during four official international matches. Results: The results showed that FT2 players covered more explosive distances than FT1 players (p < 0.05; ES = −0.82), and FT2 and FT3 players achieved higher maximum velocities than FT1 players (p < 0.01; ES = −1.16 and p < 0.05; ES = −1.41, respectively). Furthermore, FT2 players performed more accelerations (p < 0.05; ES = −0.82 to −1.01) and decelerations (p < 0.01; ES = −1.00) in the mid–high intensity zones than FT1 players. Conclusions: While the greater impairment of FT1 players may have influenced their lower physical responses in competition compared to FT2 and FT3 players, the absence of differences between FT2 and FT3 classes is a novel aspect that requires further scientific investigation. Full article

The vertical profiles of PM_2.5 chemical components are crucial for tracing pollution development, determining causes, and improving air quality. Yet, previous studies only yielded transient and sparse results due to technological limitations. Comprehensive analysis of component vertical distribution across an entire boundary layer remains challenging. Here, we provided a first-ever vertical–temporal continuous dataset of aerosol component concentrations, including sulfate (SO₄²⁻), ammonium (NH₄⁺), nitrate (NO₃⁻), organic matter (OM), and black carbon (BC), using ground-based remote sensing retrieval. The retrieved dataset showed high correlations with in situ chemical observation, with all components exceeding 0.75 and some surpassing 0.90. Using the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics as an example, we observed distinct vertical patterns and responses to meteorology and emissions of different components under strictly controlled conditions. During the Paralympics, the emissions contribution (51.12%) surpassed meteorology (48.88%), except SO₄²⁻ and NO₃⁻. Inorganics showed high-altitude transport features, while organics were surface-concentrated, with high-altitude inorganic(organic) concentrations 1.19(0.56) times higher than those near the surface. SO₄²⁻ peaked at 919 m and 1516 m, NH₄⁺ and NO₃⁻ showed an additional peak near 300–500 m, influenced by surface sources and secondary generation. The inorganics exhibited a transport-holding–sinking–resurging process, with NO₃⁻ reaching higher and sinking more. By contrast, organic components massified near 200 m, with a slight increase in high-altitude transport by time. The dispersion of all components driven by a north-westerly wind started 5 h earlier at high altitudes than near the surface, marking the end of the process. The insights gleaned highlight regional inorganic impacts and local organic impacts under the coupling of emission control and meteorology, thus offering helpful guidance for source attribution and targeted control policies. Full article

Background: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an effective and efficient method for training Paralympic athletes with cerebral palsy, particularly in intermittent sports and those requiring aerobic and anaerobic capacity, speed, and strength to delay fatigue onset and optimize athletic performance. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the effects of four weeks of HIIT on the estimated VO₂max, anaerobic power, and athletic performance in cyclists with cerebral palsy. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study included three male athletes (Athletes A, B, and C) with cerebral palsy from the Paracycling Departmental Commission of Cauca, Colombia. The estimated VO₂max was assessed using an incremental test on a cycling ergometer. Anaerobic power was measured using the 30 s long Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT_30 s. Specific performance was evaluated with an individual time trial of 14 km for class T1 and 20 km for class T2. HIIT training was performed on a cycling ergometer over four weeks (two sessions per week). The training intensity was based on watts (W) measured in the incremental test for long HIIT sessions and in the WAnT_30 s test for short HIIT sessions. The training load was monitored through heart rate (HR) responses and the subjective perceived exertion (RPE) at the end of the training. Results: After the HIIT intervention, percentage changes in the estimated VO₂max were observed in Athlete A (+7%) and Athlete C (+9.4%). In the WAnT_30 s, there were increases in the maximal and mean power in Athlete A (>31%, 282.3 vs. 370.4 W), Athlete B (>15%, 272.5 vs. 312.6 W), and Athlete C (>9%, 473.7 vs. 516.2 W). Individual time trial performance improved, with reduced completion times for Athlete A (−6.7%, 2492 vs. 2325 s), Athlete B (−3.7%, 2486 vs. 2390 s), and Athlete C (−3.7%, 2775 vs. 2674 s). Conclusions: This study found that eight sessions of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) over a four-week period had a positive effect on the estimated VO₂max in Athletes A and C. Moreover, all three paracyclists demonstrated improvements in their maximal and average power output during the 30 s Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT_30 s), as well as enhanced performance in the time trial test. Full article