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Search Results (242)

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14 pages, 1173 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Alterations in the Unweight Phase of the Single-Leg Countermovement Jump After ACL Reconstruction
by Roberto Ricupito, Marco Bravi, Fabio Santacaterina, Giandomenico Campardo, Riccardo Guarise, Rosalba Castellucci, Ismail Bouzekraoui Alaoui and Florian Forelli
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030296 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 280
Abstract
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) often leads to asymmetries between limbs, with variable return-to-performance rates in athletes. The single-leg countermovement jump (SLCMJ) is commonly used to assess postoperative knee function. However, limited research has explored deficits specifically during the unweighting phase of [...] Read more.
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) often leads to asymmetries between limbs, with variable return-to-performance rates in athletes. The single-leg countermovement jump (SLCMJ) is commonly used to assess postoperative knee function. However, limited research has explored deficits specifically during the unweighting phase of the jump. Methods: This study assessed 53 recreational athletes (11 females, 42 males) between 6 and 9 months post-ACLr using a dual force plate system (1000 Hz). Each participant performed three maximal-effort SLCMJs per limb. Outcome measures included jump height, negative peak velocity, minimum force, and center of mass (COM) displacement. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare the ACLr limb with the contralateral limb. Results: Compared to the healthy limb, the ACLr limb showed significantly lower negative peak velocity (−0.80 ± 0.40 m/s vs. −0.94 ± 0.40 m/s, p < 0.001), higher minimum force (36.75 ± 17.88 kg vs. 32.05 ± 17.25 kg, p < 0.001), and reduced COM displacement (−17.62 ± 6.25 cm vs. −19.73 ± 5.34 cm, p = 0.014). Eccentric phase duration did not differ significantly. Conclusions: Athletes post-ACLr demonstrate altered neuromuscular control during the early SLCMJ phase. These findings highlight the importance of rehabilitation strategies targeting eccentric strength and symmetry restoration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Movement Analysis in Sports and Physical Therapy)
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13 pages, 732 KiB  
Article
A Preliminary Investigation of the Efficacy of Far-Infrared-Emitting Garments in Enhancing Objective and Subjective Recovery Following Resistance Exercise
by Jonathon R. Lever, Cara Ocobock, Valerie Smith-Hale, Casey J. Metoyer, Alan Huebner, John P. Wagle and Jonathan D. Hauenstein
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030280 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 426
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of far-infrared (FIR) garments in enhancing recovery following resistance exercise in recreationally active individuals. Methods: Ten recreationally active adults (six females, four males; aged 20.7 ± 3.2 years) completed a resistance exercise protocol and were [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of far-infrared (FIR) garments in enhancing recovery following resistance exercise in recreationally active individuals. Methods: Ten recreationally active adults (six females, four males; aged 20.7 ± 3.2 years) completed a resistance exercise protocol and were randomly selected to wear either FIR (n = 5) or placebo (n = 5) tights post-exercise. The FIR garments incorporated Celliant-based fibers emitting wavelengths in the 2.5–20 µm range. The participants’ recovery was assessed using countermovement jump (CMJ) metrics, including their jump height, takeoff velocity, and modified reactive strength index (mRSI), along with their fatigue biomarkers and subjective recovery perceptions. The CMJ performance was tested immediately post-exercise and at 24 and 48 h. Results: The FIR garments led to significant improvements in neuromuscular recovery, with greater increases in the jump height, takeoff velocity, and mRSI observed at 48 h post-exercise (p < 0.05). Notably, the mRSI showed earlier improvements at 24 h. The fatigue biomarkers did not differ between the groups (p > 0.05), suggesting localized rather than systemic recovery effects. The participants in the FIR group reported faster subjective recovery, with a readiness to resume activity perceived within 48 h, compared to slower recovery in the placebo group. Conclusions: FIR garments may enhance neuromuscular recovery and subjective recovery perceptions following resistance exercise, likely by improving the peripheral blood flow, metabolic clearance, and tissue oxygenation. These findings suggest that FIR garments may be effective in enhancing both neuromuscular and perceived recovery following resistance exercise, supporting their potential use as a post-exercise recovery tool. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Athletic Training and Human Performance)
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16 pages, 1361 KiB  
Review
Cardiovascular Remodeling and Potential Controversies in Master Endurance Athletes—A Narrative Review
by Othmar Moser, Stefan J. Schunk, Volker Schöffl, Janis Schierbauer and Paul Zimmermann
Life 2025, 15(7), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15071095 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 567
Abstract
While the interest and participation in general endurance training and recreational sports competitions have continuously increased in recent decades, the number of recreational master-level endurance athletes has additionally multiplied. Athletes, active men and women older than 40 years of age, who participate in [...] Read more.
While the interest and participation in general endurance training and recreational sports competitions have continuously increased in recent decades, the number of recreational master-level endurance athletes has additionally multiplied. Athletes, active men and women older than 40 years of age, who participate in competitive athletics are usually referred to by the term master athletes (MAs). Previous research revealed the significant benefits of regular moderate physical activity, i.e., its positive influence on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular health; however, recent data have raised concerns that long-term endurance exercise participation is associated with cardiac remodeling and potential adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Previous research also indicated potential structural, functional, and electrical remodeling in MAs due to prolonged and repeated exposure to high-intensity endurance exercise—a condition known as athlete’s heart. In this review, we focus on the association between extreme levels of endurance exercise and potential cardiovascular controversies, such as arrhythmogenesis due to new-onset atrial fibrillation, accelerated coronary artery atherosclerosis, and exercise-induced cardiac remodeling. Additionally, the exercise-dependent modulation of immunological response, such as proteomic response and cytokine alterations, is discussed. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of nutritional supplements in MAs and their potential benefits and harmful interactions. We aim to provide sports medicine practitioners with knowledge of these contemporary longevity controversies in sports cardiology and to highlight the importance of shared decision making in situations of clinical uncertainty. Full article
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14 pages, 879 KiB  
Review
Implications for the Ergogenic Benefits of Self-Selected Music in Neurological Conditions: A Theoretical Review
by Christopher G. Ballmann, Rebecca R. Rogers, Sophia L. Porrill and Nicholas B. Washmuth
Neurol. Int. 2025, 17(7), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint17070106 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 290
Abstract
The ergogenic effects of music have been well described across various modes of exercise with widespread use across competitive athletes and recreational exercisers alike. Underlying the acute beneficial effects of music during exercise are profound physiological and psychological changes which involve an array [...] Read more.
The ergogenic effects of music have been well described across various modes of exercise with widespread use across competitive athletes and recreational exercisers alike. Underlying the acute beneficial effects of music during exercise are profound physiological and psychological changes which involve an array of different organ systems, including but not limited to cardiovascular, endocrine, skeletal muscle, and nervous systems. While the use of music to enhance physical performance and improve associated mechanisms has been largely optimized in healthy individuals, the investigations of the translation to individuals with neurological conditions are still ongoing. Recently, it has been established that the personalization of music interventions greatly influences performance-enhancing benefits and aids in physical performance optimization in healthy individuals. Self-selected music (SSM) has been documented to impart ergogenic advantages over pre-determined or non-preferred music, including improved cardiorespiratory endurance, power development, and velocity of movement which are characterized by adaptative physiological and psychological changes. Evidence of the benefits of SSM has progressed to the degree to which the overlap of possible benefits between healthy and clinical populations is becoming more apparent. This aim of this theoretical review is to discuss how personalized music influences psychophysiological determinants of exercise ability in healthy individuals and consider how these findings may be applicable to neurological conditions to enhance exercise capacity. The current knowledge on the role of SSM in augmenting physiological and psychological responses to exercise in healthy individuals is presented along with how these mechanisms might be leveraged to overcome exercise limitations in neurological conditions. Overall, SSM appears to have theoretical support to be a promising therapeutic approach to improving exercise ability in neurological conditions through similar ergogenic mechanisms documented in healthy individuals, but further investigation is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Movement Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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21 pages, 518 KiB  
Study Protocol
Development and Implementation of a Core Training Protocol: Effects on Muscle Activation, Hypertrophy, Balance, and Quality of Life in Recreationally Active Adults
by Ioannis Tsartsapakis, Aglaia Zafeiroudi, Ioannis Trigonis, Christos Lyrtzis and Konstantinos Astrapellos
Methods Protoc. 2025, 8(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps8040077 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 849
Abstract
Core stability is fundamental to posture, balance, and force transmission throughout the kinetic chain. Although traditionally associated with athletic performance, emerging research highlights its broader applicability to recreational fitness. This study investigates the effects of an eight-week core training program on muscle hypertrophy, [...] Read more.
Core stability is fundamental to posture, balance, and force transmission throughout the kinetic chain. Although traditionally associated with athletic performance, emerging research highlights its broader applicability to recreational fitness. This study investigates the effects of an eight-week core training program on muscle hypertrophy, static balance, and neuromuscular control in recreationally active, non-athletic adults. Participants will undertake a structured intervention comprising progressive triads targeting core stability, strength, and power. Assessment methods include surface electromyography (EMG), ultrasound imaging, three-dimensional force plates, Kinovea motion analysis, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) questionnaire. Expected outcomes include enhanced core muscle activation, improved static balance, and increased core-generated force during overhead medicine ball slam trials. Additionally, the intervention aims to facilitate hypertrophy of the transverse abdominis, internal oblique, and lumbar multifidus muscles, contributing to spinal resilience and motor control. This protocol bridges gaps in core training methodologies and advances their scalability for recreational populations. The proposed model offers a structured, evidence-informed framework for improving core activation, postural stability, muscle adaptation, movement efficiency, and perceived quality of life in recreationally active individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Sciences and Physiology)
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21 pages, 325 KiB  
Review
Exercise-Induced Angioedema, Urticaria, and Anaphylaxis—A Narrative Review
by Waleed Aman Ur Rahman, Mohamad Mahdi Mortada, Paulina Ślimok, Alaa Sherri, Katarzyna Poznańska-Kurowska, Anna Zalewska-Janowska and Marcin Kurowski
Sports 2025, 13(7), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070215 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1409
Abstract
The benefits of regular physical exercise, primarily moderate-intensity exercise, are widely known, recognized, and acclaimed. As an important lifestyle modification, regular training activities are gaining increasing popularity in the general population. Apart from the obvious benefits, physical exercise may carry the risk of [...] Read more.
The benefits of regular physical exercise, primarily moderate-intensity exercise, are widely known, recognized, and acclaimed. As an important lifestyle modification, regular training activities are gaining increasing popularity in the general population. Apart from the obvious benefits, physical exercise may carry the risk of trauma, cardiovascular events, and exercise-induced asthma and bronchoconstriction, to name just a few well-known clinical situations reported in athletes, both recreational and competitive. In susceptible individuals, acute bouts of exercise may lead to the appearance of urticaria, angioedema, and anaphylaxis. Among these three clinical phenomena, angioedema is the least addressed and recognized, often being considered an accompanying clinical feature of urticaria or a hallmark of imminent anaphylactic reaction. To fill this knowledge gap, in this review, we focus on exercise-associated angioedema symptoms and highlight their most important features, both as isolated phenomena and in association with urticaria or anaphylaxis. Full article
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14 pages, 684 KiB  
Article
Correlation Between Core Stability and Plantar Pressure Distribution During Double-Leg Stance, Single-Leg Stance, and Squat Positions in Healthy Male Athletes
by Reem Abdullah Babkair, Shibili Nuhmani, Turki Abualait and Qassim Muaidi
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1188; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071188 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Background: Core stability is a cornerstone of optimum athletic performance, and its reduction is a risk factor for athletic injuries. Evidence has shown that core impairments can alter lower-limb mechanics through the kinetic chains. Additionally, plantar pressure can be influenced by proximal [...] Read more.
Background: Core stability is a cornerstone of optimum athletic performance, and its reduction is a risk factor for athletic injuries. Evidence has shown that core impairments can alter lower-limb mechanics through the kinetic chains. Additionally, plantar pressure can be influenced by proximal conditions, such as core muscle fatigue. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between core endurance and plantar pressure distribution (PPD) during double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat positions in healthy male athletes. Methods: A total of 21 healthy male recreational athletes between 19 and 26 years of age volunteered to participate in this correlational study. The McGill core endurance test was used to measure the endurance of their core flexors, extensors, and lateral flexors. The participants’ PPD was evaluated using the Tekscan Mobile Mat pressure measurement system in three positions (double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat) for both the dominant and non-dominant feet. Results: There was a poor and insignificant correlation (p > 0.05) between the core flexors’, extensors’, and side flexors’ endurance and the peak and total PPD in all the tested positions for both the dominant and non-dominant feet. Conclusions: Core muscle endurance is neither a component that affects nor is affected by the PPD in this study population. Thus, the endurance of core flexors, extensors, and side flexors may not be considered in screening, examination, or intervention for the total and peak pressure during double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat positions for both the dominant and non-dominant feet in the study population. Further similar studies are warranted in various sports and during dynamic tasks to better understand the different dimensions of the studied relationship in athletes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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12 pages, 823 KiB  
Review
Do Non-Circular Chainrings Enhance Cycling Performance? A Systematic Review of Randomized Crossover Trials
by Filipe Maia, Henrique Sousa, Oscar Garcia-Garcia, Ricardo Pimenta, Paulo Santiago, Pedro Castro Vigário, Gonçalo Torres and Fábio Yuzo Nakamura
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030233 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1007
Abstract
Background: Athletes commonly use innovative strategies that aim to enhance their cycling performance. Among them, the effectiveness of non-circular chainrings has been a frequent topic of discussion. This systematic review aims to analyze the physiological and performance effects of using non-circular chainrings [...] Read more.
Background: Athletes commonly use innovative strategies that aim to enhance their cycling performance. Among them, the effectiveness of non-circular chainrings has been a frequent topic of discussion. This systematic review aims to analyze the physiological and performance effects of using non-circular chainrings in cyclists. Methods: A literature search was conducted on populations ranging from recreational to elite-level athletes, following the PRISMA guidelines. The electronic databases searched were PubMed, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, Scopus, and SportDiscus, using the search terms (“oval chainring*” OR “non-circular chainring*” OR “elliptical chainring*” OR “asymmetric chainring*” OR “Q-Ring*” OR “eccentric chainring*” OR “chainring*”) AND (cycl*), on 11 May 2025. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool with an extension for crossover studies, indicating some concerns regarding the included studies. Results: The initial search identified 291 research articles, which, after applying the screening criteria, resulted in the inclusion of 18 manuscripts. The results suggest that non-circular chainrings do not appear to improve cycling performance metrics or physiological variables during prolonged efforts; however, it is possible that they enhance the sprinting capacity. Conclusions: While the research remains inconclusive, future studies should further explore the effects of non-circular chainrings on sprinting performance. Full article
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30 pages, 4666 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Protein and Amino Acid Supplementation on Muscular Strength and Endurance in Recreational Gym-Goers During 8-Week Resistance Training
by Sandor-Richard Nagy, Magdalena Mititelu, Ruxandra-Cristina Marin, Violeta Popovici, Annamaria Pallag and Tünde Jurca
Sports 2025, 13(6), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13060182 - 11 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3832
Abstract
Objective: Most recreational gym-goers independently consume nutritional supplements (NSs) without physician advice and a personalized diet. The present study examines the preference for nutritional supplements (NSs) based on protein and amino acids of 218 recreational gym-goers (males and females aged 18–60). It also [...] Read more.
Objective: Most recreational gym-goers independently consume nutritional supplements (NSs) without physician advice and a personalized diet. The present study examines the preference for nutritional supplements (NSs) based on protein and amino acids of 218 recreational gym-goers (males and females aged 18–60). It also investigates the NS’s impact on resistance training (RT) performance. Methods: All participants (n = 218) were regular members of two gym centers in Oradea. Baseline data and information about daily diet and supplement preferences were obtained through face-to-face interviews. At the same time, RT performance was assessed by measuring 1RM in six exercises three times (W0, W4, and W8). Results: Our findings reveal that 24.3% of participants did not consume NSs, while the majority (75.6%, p < 0.05) used them to improve their physical condition; men were more likely to consume NSs than women (83.3% vs. 63.9%, p < 0.05). Gym-goers were grouped based on their NS consumption: L-carnitine, creatine, whey protein (WP), and triple combination; the non-supplemented group was the control. The combination substantially correlated with a balanced diet, 3001–3500 and >3500 calories/day; creatine was appreciably associated with 2001–2500 calories/day; L-carnitine was associated with 151–200 g protein/day, while control was considerably linked with a vegetarian diet and <1000 calorie/day (r > 0.900, p < 0.05). The results showed that almost all participants exhibited progressive muscle strength improvements. As an overview, 1RM substantially varied with NS consumed, body weight status, and gender (p < 0.0001), except for the pull-up count, which varied with NS and gender (p < 0.0001). Additionally, 1RM significantly varied with age (deadlift and pull-ups), daily protein consumption (back squats, biceps, and triceps), daily calories (back squats), and diet type (biceps, triceps, and pull-up exercises), p < 0.05. On the other hand, most NSs associated with RT exercises led to a general increase in body weight. Only L-carnitine decreased it. Conclusions: Resistance training records of recreational athletes are significantly influenced by age, gender, body weight status, NS type, and daily diet features (p < 0.05). Our findings highlight the essential role of professional guidance in nutritional supplementation associated with a suitable diet for optimal RT performance of recreational athletes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Performance and Promoting Health Through Nutrition)
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26 pages, 3832 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of the Sport of Squash (1973–2024): Progress, Collaboration, Findings, and Thematic Evolution
by Ruizhi Liu, Miran Kondrič and Jihong Wang
Sports 2025, 13(6), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13060157 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 716
Abstract
Squash, which originated in the early 19th century, was officially incorporated into the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games by the International Olympic Committee in 2023. This inclusion marks a significant milestone, highlighting its growing international recognition and potential for global development. However, squash [...] Read more.
Squash, which originated in the early 19th century, was officially incorporated into the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games by the International Olympic Committee in 2023. This inclusion marks a significant milestone, highlighting its growing international recognition and potential for global development. However, squash has historically been underrepresented in academic research compared to other popular sports, with studies being scattered and relatively underdeveloped. To systematically evaluate the current state of squash research and foster academic development in the field, this study employs a combination of bibliometric and qualitative analyses, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of squash research in terms of research progress, collaboration networks, key findings, and thematic evolution. Drawing on Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed data, the analysis covers 206 publications from 36 countries spanning from 1973 to 2024. Network analysis based on co-authorship frequency and geographic clustering identifies the UK and Australia as leading contributors, with extensive collaboration among institutions and authors. Performance analysis (tactical and technical modeling), physiological profiling (energy demands), and medical studies (injury epidemiology) emerged as the three core research areas. The study reveals a shift in research focus from safety and physiological characteristics to performance enhancement, which is driven by technological innovation. Future research should prioritize underdeveloped areas such as youth development, psychology, and nutrition while integrating diverse participant groups (e.g., female athletes, recreational players) and advanced technologies. Full article
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12 pages, 411 KiB  
Article
Identifying Cervical Predictors of Recreational Mixed Martial Arts Participation: A Case-Control Study
by Leia Holland, Eleuterio A. Sánchez Romero, Juan Nicolás Cuenca-Zaldívar and Rob Sillevis
Sports 2025, 13(5), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13050155 - 20 May 2025
Viewed by 825
Abstract
Background: Recreational participation in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has rapidly increased. Despite consistent evidence of a high injury prevalence in MMA athletes, the neuromuscular implications of regular MMA training remain underexplored. The cervical spine is particularly vulnerable to trauma due to repetitive [...] Read more.
Background: Recreational participation in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has rapidly increased. Despite consistent evidence of a high injury prevalence in MMA athletes, the neuromuscular implications of regular MMA training remain underexplored. The cervical spine is particularly vulnerable to trauma due to repetitive impacts and high mechanical demands in combat sports. Methods: This case-control study compared cervical spine function and self-reported symptoms between 25 recreational MMA athletes and 25 matched individuals who engaged in general fitness training. Outcome measures included Neck Disability Index (NDI), Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), pain and headache reports, cervical range of motion (ROM), proprioception, isometric strength, and endurance. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictors of group classification. Results: The MMA group exhibited significantly higher values for post-concussion symptoms (p = 0.012), cervical flexor endurance (p = 0.031), and the number of concussions (p = 0.001) but lower flexion ROM (p = 0.031). No significant differences were observed in strength, proprioception, or NDI scores. Logistic regression identified the number of concussions, age, total cervical ROM, and average rotation strength as significant predictors of group membership (model AUC = 0.96; Nagelkerke R2 = 0.797). Conclusions: Recreational MMA athletes demonstrated higher rates of concussion-related symptoms and reduced cervical flexion ROM than noncontact exercisers despite no statistically significant differences in strength and proprioception. These findings suggest that cumulative exposure to amateur MMA is associated with alterations in cervical neuromuscular characteristics. These results support the implementation of targeted mobility, endurance, and injury prevention programs in recreational MMA training. Full article
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12 pages, 633 KiB  
Article
Eating Disorder Symptoms and Energy Deficiency Awareness in Adolescent Artistic Gymnasts: Evidence of a Knowledge Gap
by Anastasia Donti, Maria I. Maraki, Maria Psychountaki and Olyvia Donti
Nutrients 2025, 17(10), 1699; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17101699 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 1351
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pressure to stay lean may lead adolescent athletes to dietary restraint and disordered eating. Lack of nutrition awareness can also contribute to suboptimal dietary habits, increasing the risk of eating disorders and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport [RED-S], though evidence in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pressure to stay lean may lead adolescent athletes to dietary restraint and disordered eating. Lack of nutrition awareness can also contribute to suboptimal dietary habits, increasing the risk of eating disorders and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport [RED-S], though evidence in competitive athletes is limited. This study explored eating disorder symptoms and RED-S knowledge in adolescent artistic gymnasts. Methods: Eighty-four female artistic gymnasts, thirty-nine international and national level gymnasts [high-level; 14 [14, 15] y] and forty-five recreational and club level gymnasts [low-level; 14 [13, 15] y] completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire [EDE-Q 6.0], the RED-S knowledge Questionnaire and provided training details. Results: Seventeen gymnasts (20.2%) scored above the cutoff point on the EDE-Q. In addition, high-level gymnasts scored higher than low-level on EDE-Q [2.21 ± 1.37 (35.9%) vs. 1.19 ± 0.79 (6.7%), respectively; p < 0.001] and on its subscales: Restraint, Eating Concerns, Weight Concerns, and Shape Concerns [p < 0.001 to 0.009], thus indicating more severe disordered eating symptoms. No group differences were found in binge eating and compensatory behaviors. An important percentage of gymnasts reported at least one episode of binge eating and excessive training [39.3–58.3%], while four gymnasts reported self-induced vomiting. RED-S knowledge did not differ between groups. On average, gymnasts were unaware of correct answers related to RED-S [51.5%], its definitions [79.8–92.9%], and its association with menstrual disturbances and bone health [54.8–86.9%]. However, gymnasts reported better awareness of the impact of food restriction on illness and performance [47.6–84.5%]. Conclusions: Elite artistic gymnasts exhibited a higher prevalence of eating disorder symptoms than lower-level peers. Gymnasts at all levels demonstrated limited knowledge of the effects of RED-S on menstrual and bone health. Failure to recognize these risks may influence gymnasts’ eating behaviors and delay RED-S detection and management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Body Image and Nutritional Status Among Adolescents and Adults)
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17 pages, 733 KiB  
Article
Swearing in Sport and Exercise: Development and Validation of a New Questionnaire
by Noam Manor and Gershon Tenenbaum
Psychol. Int. 2025, 7(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/psycholint7020037 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 1006
Abstract
Swearing, a highly emotive form of expression, has recently attracted growing interest from researchers. Yet, swearing is still largely unexamined as a form of self-talk among professional athletes, coaches, and casual exercisers. This study aims to fill that gap by creating and validating [...] Read more.
Swearing, a highly emotive form of expression, has recently attracted growing interest from researchers. Yet, swearing is still largely unexamined as a form of self-talk among professional athletes, coaches, and casual exercisers. This study aims to fill that gap by creating and validating the Use of Swear Words in Sport and Exercise Questionnaire (USWSEQ), an innovative instrument intended to assess how often athletes, coaches, and recreational exercisers utilize common swear words. The questionnaire was administered to 513 participants and underwent exploratory (n = 333) and confirmatory (n = 180) factor analyses to evaluate its content structure, reliability, and validity. Results confirmed a robust two-factor model: (1) Self/Other Degradation, and (2) Situational Swearing. Notably, the study emphasizes the complexity involved in researching language, because swear words can be semantically ambiguous, pragmatically flexible, and deeply embedded in culture. These attributes present challenges for conventional psychometric methods and highlight the importance of function-based and context-aware frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychology of Peak Performance in Sport)
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14 pages, 1540 KiB  
Article
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Modified Transtibial Technique: Outcomes and Return to Sport in Athletes
by Arcangelo Russo, Giuseppe Gianluca Costa, Maria Agata Musumeci, Michele Giancani, Calogero Di Naro, Francesco Pegreffi, Gianluca Testa, Marco Sapienza and Vito Pavone
Healthcare 2025, 13(9), 1056; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13091056 - 4 May 2025
Viewed by 544
Abstract
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common among athletes and significantly impact their knee stability and performance. Surgical reconstruction is the standard treatment. The modified transtibial technique has emerged as a promising surgical approach for optimal graft positioning and complication reduction. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common among athletes and significantly impact their knee stability and performance. Surgical reconstruction is the standard treatment. The modified transtibial technique has emerged as a promising surgical approach for optimal graft positioning and complication reduction. Methods: A retrospective study of athletes who underwent primary ACL reconstruction with the modified transtibial technique was conducted. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores and objective knee stability assessments. Return-to-sport rates and associated factors were analyzed. Results: Forty-four athletes were included (thirty-seven males, seven females; mean age 21.2 ± 5.0 years). At mean follow-up of 27.0 ± 12.2 months, significant improvements in the Lysholm and IKDC subjective scores were observed. Overall, 88.2% of athletes returned to sports, and 65.9% achieved their pre-injury levels. Return to pre-injury level was defined as regaining the same type, intensity, and frequency of sport participation as before the injury occurred. Professional athletes showed significantly higher return-to-pre-injury-sport rates (79.3%) than recreational athletes (40.0%, p = 0.0091). Concomitant meniscus injuries negatively impacted return-to-sport rates (92.9% versus 66.7%, p = 0.0397). The overall failure rate was 4.6% (2/44; 95% confidence level [CI]: 0.6–15.5%) with two cases of graft insufficiency or re-rupture. Conclusions: ACL reconstruction with the modified transtibial technique provides favorable clinical outcomes, high return-to-sport rates, and low failure rates, particularly among professional athletes. Meniscus preservation is crucial for optimizing post-operative recovery. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes and comparative studies with other ACL reconstruction techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Trauma: From Prevention to Surgery and Return to Sport)
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20 pages, 1005 KiB  
Article
Reasons for Swearing as a Form of Self-Talk in Sport and Exercise: Development and Validation of a New Questionnaire
by Noam Manor and Gershon Tenenbaum
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050593 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 929
Abstract
Swearing is a powerful and emotionally charged form of language that has recently gained increased scholarly attention. While commonly used for emotional release, its role in sport and exercise ‘self-talk’ remains understudied. Prior evidence suggests that swearing may aid in pain management, emotion [...] Read more.
Swearing is a powerful and emotionally charged form of language that has recently gained increased scholarly attention. While commonly used for emotional release, its role in sport and exercise ‘self-talk’ remains understudied. Prior evidence suggests that swearing may aid in pain management, emotion regulation, and performance enhancement, yet research in athletic contexts has largely focused on conventional self-talk. To address this gap, the present study developed and validated the Reasons for Swearing in Sport and Exercise Questionnaire (RSSEQ), a novel tool assessing reasons motivating swearing among competitive athletes, coaches, and recreational exercisers. A total of 513 participants completed the RSSEQ. Exploratory (n = 333) and confirmatory (n = 180) factor analyses supported a three-factor structure: Stress and Emotional Catharsis, Mental Strength Enhancement, and Coping with Physical Discomfort and Pain. Males reported greater use of swearing for mental strength and pain-related coping, while no gender differences were observed for emotional catharsis. Athletes reported more swearing for emotional catharsis than did coaches, but no differences emerged in motivational or pain-related use. No significant differences were found between competitive and recreational athletes or between team and individual sport participants. These findings establish a foundation for future research on the psychological functions of swearing in sport and exercise, encouraging further exploration of its effectiveness and potential integration into mental training strategies, alongside more traditional self-talk approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behavioral and Psychosocial Dynamics of Sports and Exercise)
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