Search Results (41)

Background/Objective: This study aims to evaluate the predictive performance of three supervised machine learning algorithms—decision tree (DT), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbors (KNN) in forecasting key visual skills relevant to rhythmic gymnastics. Methods: A total of 383 rhythmic gymnasts aged 4 to 27 years were evaluated in various sports centers across Madrid, Spain. Visual assessments included clinical tests (near convergence point accommodative facility, reaction time, and hand–eye coordination) and eye-tracking tasks (fixation stability, saccades, smooth pursuits, and visual acuity) using the DIVE (Devices for an Integral Visual Examination) system. The dataset was split into training (70%) and testing (30%) subsets. Each algorithm was trained to classify visual performance, and predictive performance was assessed using accuracy and macro F1-score metrics. Results: The decision tree model demonstrated the highest performance, achieving an average accuracy of 92.79% and a macro F1-score of 0.9276. In comparison, the SVM and KNN models showed lower accuracies (71.17% and 78.38%, respectively) and greater difficulty in correctly classifying positive cases. Notably, the DT model outperformed the others in predicting fixation stability and accommodative facility, particularly in short-duration fixation tasks. Conclusion: The decision tree algorithm achieved the highest performance in predicting short-term fixation stability, but its effectiveness was limited in tasks involving accommodative facility, where other models such as SVM and KNN outperformed it in specific metrics. These findings support the integration of machine learning in sports vision screening and suggest that predictive modeling can inform individualized training and performance optimization in visually demanding sports such as rhythmic gymnastics. Full article

The relative age effect (RAE) refers to the advantage often observed in sports selection processes, where athletes born earlier in the calendar year are favored over those born later. While the RAE has been widely studied in various sports, little is known about its presence in rhythmic gymnastics (RG), a female-dominated esthetic sport characterized by early specialization. This study investigated the presence of the RAE among elite rhythmic gymnasts (RGs) at the international level, focusing on differences in birth quarter distribution across age categories and performance levels. The sample included 578 RGs—356 juniors and 222 seniors—competing in individual and group events. Birthdates were categorized into four quartiles (Q1–Q4). Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests and standardized residuals as post hoc tests were used to analyze the RAE. No significant RAE was found in the overall sample or when analyzed by geographic region (p > 0.05). However, a significant under-representation in Q4 occurred for Group RGs (SR = −2.17), and among all juniors (SR = −2.54) (χ²[3, 356] = 9.833, p < 0.05, w = 0.17), particularly in the subgroup of 15-year-old gymnasts, who were over-represented in Q3 (SR = 2.55; χ²[3, 183] = 10.027, p < 0.05, w = 0.23). Finalists—especially those in group events—also showed a higher proportion of Q3 athletes and a lower proportion of those born in Q4. Among junior finalists, Q4 was significantly under-represented (p < 0.05). These novel sport-specific findings suggest the presence of an atypical RAE pattern in RG, particularly in younger age groups and among high-performing athletes. RG coaches and policymakers should consider alternative selection models and adapt training approaches for Q4-born gymnasts in order to prevent early deselection. Full article

Rhythmic and artistic gymnastics expose athletes to a high risk of musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain (LBP), often caused by repetitive and intensive training demands. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 12-week postural treatment using the Mézières method, focused on posture correction and vertebral movement assessed with the Spinal Mouse system, in elite rhythmic gymnasts with LBP. A randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups was conducted, comparing the Mézières method to an equivalent isostretching intervention under similar conditions. Seventeen elite gymnasts with LBP participated, receiving two weekly sessions for 12 weeks. Frontal stand posture (upright, left, and right) was measured at baseline, post-treatment, and at 2, 6, and 12 weeks using the Spinal Mouse system. The experimental group (n = 8) received Mézières therapy; the control group (n = 9) received isostretching. Significant differences in pain reduction were found between the groups (p = 0.000). In the frontal upright position, lumbar and sacral segmental angles (p = 0.021) and regional inclination (p = 0.000) also showed significant group differences. Similarly, in the frontal left position, all vertebral variables except LSpTH12 also demonstrated significant differences between the groups, with p-values ranging from 0.001 to 0.017. Both treatments reduced pain and improved flexibility, but the Mézières group showed significantly greater improvements than the isostretching group. Full article

This study investigates the kinematic characteristics of the free vertical split with 720° turn (C 807). C 807 is the international designation in rhythmic gymnastics for a free vertical split with a 720° turn. This research holds significant importance in enhancing the technical proficiency of gymnasts and reducing their risk of injury. Eight national-level female gymnasts (age = 20 ± 3 years) performed the C 807. Kinematic data were collected using a 3D motion capture system. The movement was divided into four phases, and Visual 3D (V6.0, CMotion, Germantown, MD, USA) software was used for data processing and analysis. The joint angles of the upper and lower limbs, as well as the torsion angles of the lower limb joints, were analyzed. Key findings included tibial torsion, knee hyperextension in the support leg, and changes in elbow flexion during each phase. The center of mass (COM) trajectory showed that, during the backward preparatory swing phase, COM height gradually decreased and slightly increased before the initiation phase. In the initiation phase, COM height initially decreased and then increased, while the rotation phase showed fluctuating but stable COM height. The results highlight the importance of joint angle control and COM fluctuations during movement. Training should focus on leg swing speed, lower limb strength, knee stability, and upper limb coordination to enhance balance, improve rotation speed, and prevent injuries. Full article

Background/Objectives: Postural therapies have emerged as effective non-invasive approaches to managing and preventing LBP in athletes. These therapies focus on correcting muscular imbalances, enhancing body awareness, and promoting proper alignment. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of implementing the Mézières method and isostretching postures in Spanish high-level national rhythmic gymnasts with low back pain (LBP). Specifically, the study aims to assess the impact of these postural therapies on functional limitations associated with LBP. Methods: This study was a parallel group, randomized controlled trial implemented in 17 rhythmic gymnastics athletes with low back pain conducted at baseline, at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, and upon completion of the 12-week intervention period. The outcome measures included pain measurement, the Borg effort scale, and trunk movement as flexion, extension, inclination, and rotation assessed using a wearable device sensor. Results: The trial included eight participants in the Mézières group and nine in the isostretching group, with no significant age difference between the groups (p = 0.589). Significant differences were found for time (p = 0.000) and group (p = 0.001), indicating variations in left trunk inclination performance over time and between the groups. Both groups showed increased trunk flexion, with the Mézières group demonstrating higher values at all time points. Right trunk rotation fluctuated, with a notable increase in the Mézières group at 6 weeks. The Mézières group also showed higher left trunk rotation values, peaking at 6 weeks. Conclusions: Although the Mézières method showed certain advantages in right trunk rotation and left tilt, the results overall suggest that both approaches are effective in the specific context of this population. Full article

This study aims to investigate the influence of the Mézières method and Isostretching postures on countermovement jump (CMJ) performance in rhythmic gymnasts with low back pain (LBP) by examining changes in jump height, movement efficiency, and pain perception. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a parallel-group design was conducted. Participants were randomly allocated into one of two intervention groups: the Mézières or the Isostretching group. Both groups underwent a total of 24 sessions. The Baiobit sensor was used as the primary assessment tool for measuring CMJ performance in elite rhythmic gymnasts with low back pain. A total of 17 rhythmic gymnastics athletes with LBP participated in the study. No differences were observed between groups in age, weight, or height; nevertheless, the Isostretching group had greater variability in age (SD = 4.82 vs. 0.91), while the Mézières group showed higher variability in height. As per maximal speed and height, the overall treatment effect was significant (p = 0.006, η² = 0.431), indicating long-term benefits for Mezieres training, which also had a significant impact on CMJ Maximal Force, particularly at four sessions (p = 0.036), with improvements continuing over time (p = 0.003, η² = 0.672). The Mezieres group showed higher force values compared to the Isostretching group at all time points. The results indicate that Mezieres training significantly improved CMJ Flight Time over time (p = 0.005, η² = 0.440), with notable increases at all time points compared to the Isostretching group. Improvements were particularly evident in the 12th and 24th sessions, confirming its sustained effectiveness. CMJ Contact Time also showed a significant overall effect (p = 0.027, η² = 0.521), with Mezieres training leading to greater reductions in contact time, particularly at 24 sessions (p = 0.003), highlighting improved efficiency in jump execution. Lastly, CMJ VAS (perceived exertion or discomfort) showed a significant overall effect (p < 0.001, η² = 0.896), with Mezieres training leading to a progressive reduction in perceived exertion, particularly from eight sessions onwards, and the most pronounced effect at 24 sessions. The Mézières method and Isostretching postures offer substantial benefits for gymnasts with low back pain, though their mechanisms of improvement differ. Full article

The aim of this study was to examine the perception and gender typing of sports among students at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Kinesiology. The study was conducted on a sample of 268 students, with respondents categorizing 19 sports as male, female, or equally male and female. Data processing included descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages and the chi-square test with Bonferroni correction to test differences between groups for categorical variables. Differences in gender typing (perception) between two groups of participants based on gender were tested using the t-test. Five sports (rugby, formula, boxing, water polo, and soccer) were predominantly categorized as “male”, three sports as “female” (rhythmic gymnastics, aerobics, and synchronized swimming), and as many as eleven as “neutral” (athletics, skiing, swimming, tennis, karate, beach volleyball, gymnastics, handball, volleyball, sailing, and basketball). Regardless of active participation in a particular sport, the perception of gender typing of sports remained constant. The results indicate that in Croatia there is still a separation in the perception of sports that are either suitable for men, for women, or for both genders. Full article

The gender perspective (GP) aims to generate social change by questioning the stereotypes and roles assigned to individuals and addressing biases and related issues. In Chile, it has been promoted through public policies (Law No.21.369). For this reason, the Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation Pedagogy program at a state university has adjusted its curricular activities. Rhythmic gymnastics (RG), a sport traditionally considered exclusive to women and previously taught only to “them”, must now be taken by all people, regardless of their gender. This research, project funded by the Metropolitan University of Chile DIUMCE01-2024-EFA, analyzes the opinions of 50 students about RG in their curriculum and its relationship with GP prior to taking the course. The study follows a qualitative case study approach, applying semantic content analysis with emergent categories to the responses. The student body presents a favorable attitude toward the curricular activity, expressing interest in applying it within their professional field. They state that sports should be practiced without gender differentiation. They recognize that there are social biases linked to gender stereotypes. On the other hand, the lack of knowledge of RG implies prejudices, such as feeling uncoordinated, inflexible, and uncomfortable when working on corporal expression. Full article

While moderate exercise supports regular menstrual cycle (MC) function, many female athletes experience MC symptoms that negatively influence their training and performance. Hereby, knowledge and communication about this topic are important to promote an athlete’s health and wellbeing. Hence, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and communication surrounding the MC among Norwegian rhythmic gymnasts, ballerinas, and dancers. In total, 116 rhythmic gymnasts, ballerinas, and dancers aged ≥ 16 years training ≥ 3 days per week completed an electronic questionnaire. Of these, 63% (n = 73) reported a lack of knowledge about the MC’s influence on physical fitness and performance, and 39% (n = 45) rated their coaches’ or pedagogues’ knowledge as low. With only 32% of participants discussing the MC with their coaches/pedagogues, communication was found to be limited. Seventy-three percent felt uncomfortable during training or competition due to their attire and recommended darker colors and more options in size and layering. The study highlights a significant gap in knowledge and communication about the MC among female athletes and coaches/pedagogues in aesthetic sports. It also recommends improving athletes’ choice of attire for greater comfort and confidence. Full article

Background/Objectives: There are strict demands on body weight and shape in highly trained adolescent female athletes, and they are in the highest risk group for the development of eating disorders. This study aims to compare the behavioural eating patterns between highly trained female adolescent athletes and untrained controls (UCs), and to describe the associations between behavioural eating patterns and different energy homeostasis hormones. Methods: A total of 33 rhythmic gymnasts (RGs), 20 swimmers (SWs), and 20 UCs (n = 20) that were 14 to 18 years old participated in this investigation. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, training volume, 3-consecutive-day energy intake, and different energy homeostasis hormones were measured. For the evaluation of the individual behavioural eating pattern, an eating disorders assessment scale (EDAS) questionnaire with different subscales was used. Results: The mean EDAS subscale of restrained eating score was significantly higher in the RG group compared to the UC group (17.2 ± 7.4 vs. 11.5 ± 5.8; p < 0.05). The EDAS total score (r = 0.380) and the subscale score of preoccupation with body image and body weight (r = 0.371) were both positively correlated (p < 0.05) with serum irisin concentrations in the RG group. Conclusions: In conclusion, female rhythmic gymnasts reported a more often restrained eating pattern than untrained controls, and their more disturbed behavioural eating pattern was associated with a higher serum irisin concentration. Full article

This scoping review presents an overview of physical fitness parameters in rhythmic gymnastics as well as the association of fitness with gymnasts’ performance, competitive level, and age. PubMed, Scopus, and Sport Discus databases were searched. Of the 586 records retrieved, 41 studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 1915 participants). The included studies examined flexibility, aerobic capacity, muscle power, muscle endurance, muscle strength, sprint speed, agility, balance, and coordination. Performance was associated with flexibility, aerobic capacity, lower-limb muscle power, agility, muscular endurance, balance, and coordination from a young age. Flexibility, aerobic capacity, and muscle power were, in general, higher in high-level gymnasts than in low-level gymnasts or controls. Older rhythmic gymnasts demonstrated higher scores than the younger ones in flexibility, aerobic capacity, balance, and sport-specific coordination but not in muscle endurance, while some studies reported a decline in muscle power with age. Supplementary physical fitness training improved all physical abilities irrespective of the gymnasts’ level. Rhythmic gymnastics training alone improved muscle power, agility, speed, muscular endurance, and balance to a lesser extent than targeted fitness training. Muscular strength, speed, and agility are largely under-researched in rhythmic gymnastics. Emphasis should be given to targeted strength and power training due to the high mechanical loads placed on skeletally immature athletes. Full article

This study aimed to clarify the differences between the previously reported mechanisms of sports-related concussion (SRC) injuries without a loss of consciousness in contact and collision sports and the mechanisms of SRC injuries in our cases. Based on two videos of SRC injuries occurring during a men’s rhythmic gymnastics competition (three people were injured), the risk of SRC occurrence was estimated from various parameters using a multibody analysis and eight brain injury evaluation criteria. In the present study, the three SRC impacts that occurred in men’s rhythmic gymnastics showed significant characteristics in duration compared to previously reported cases in the contact sports. This suggests that the occurrence of SRC may have been caused by a different type of impact from that which causes SRC in contact sports (e.g., tackling). In addition, calculation of the strain indicating the rate of brain deformation suggested a risk of nerve swelling in all cases involving type 2 axonal injuries. Therefore, when reexamining sports-related head injuries, it is important to recognize the characteristics and mechanisms of SRC that occur in each different sport, as well as the symptoms and course of SRC after injury. Full article

Facial expression recognition (FER) utilizes artificial intelligence for the detection and analysis of human faces, with significant applications across various scenarios. Our objective is to deploy the facial emotion recognition network on mobile devices and extend its application to diverse areas, including classroom effect monitoring, human–computer interaction, specialized training for athletes (such as in figure skating and rhythmic gymnastics), and actor emotion training. Recent studies have employed advanced deep learning models to address this task, though these models often encounter challenges like subpar performance and an excessive number of parameters that do not align with the requirements of FER for embedded devices. To tackle this issue, we have devised a lightweight network structure named RS-Xception, which is straightforward yet highly effective. Drawing on the strengths of ResNet and SENet, this network integrates elements from the Xception architecture. Our models have been trained on FER2013 datasets and demonstrate superior efficiency compared to conventional network models. Furthermore, we have assessed the model’s performance on the CK+, FER2013, and Bigfer2013 datasets, achieving accuracy rates of 97.13%, 69.02%, and 72.06%, respectively. Evaluation on the complex RAF-DB dataset yielded an accuracy rate of 82.98%. The incorporation of transfer learning notably enhanced the model’s accuracy, with a performance of 75.38% on the Bigfer2013 dataset, underscoring its significance in our research. In conclusion, our proposed model proves to be a viable solution for precise sentiment detection and estimation. In the future, our lightweight model may be deployed on embedded devices for research purposes. Full article

In the long-term performance development of rhythmic gymnasts aged 16–17, athletes enter a high-performance training phase, marked by increased training loads and preparation for international competitions. This study aimed to (1) provide an overview of methods used to capture external and internal training/competition loads in elite rhythmic gymnasts, and (2) identify measurements of external and internal training/competition loads and their responses during monitored periods. Conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, the systematic review included 6 studies out of the 815 initially identified. The most common methods for calculating external training load were hours or minutes per week. Internal measures varied and included objective methods such as heart rate monitoring and biochemical, hormonal, and hematological assessments from saliva and blood samples. Among subjective methods, session-RPE was most frequently used, along with other questionnaires examining recovery, well-being, sleep, and competition anxiety. The analyzed studies integrated diverse external and internal training load variables, delving into their impact on athlete’s biochemical parameters, recovery, and well-being. Pre-competitive and competitive training periods were the focal points of measuring loads. The complex training structure of rhythmic gymnastics can complicate the calculation of training loads. Therefore, more studies are needed to explore the dose-response relationships between training load and training adaptations, fatigue, and recovery. Full article

Body dissatisfaction is commonly associated with rhythmic gymnastics (RG) practice, but limited research exists on the prevalence of this issue among recreational level practitioners. This study examines body image dissatisfaction among young girls practicing RG recreationally. A total of 88 girls between six and eleven years of age, who participate in RG as an extracurricular activity, were measured and completed the Stunkard pictogram. To create a control group, 88 girls who did not practice RG were also recruited and matched to the gymnasts by age. Results revealed that the mean body mass index values in both groups were within the normal weight range. The mean score for body dissatisfaction was similar between the two groups, with slightly positive values (RG = 0.94; CG = 1.06). The Mann–Whitney U test showed that there was no significant difference in the ratings of actual body size, ideal body size, and body dissatisfaction between the RG and control groups. These findings suggest that practicing RG at a young age is not associated with body dissatisfaction among girls. Full article