Search Results (80)

Background: The study evaluated the acute effect of dryland maximum strength (MS) training on water polo performance. Methods: Twelve female players (20.3 ± 1.4 years) underwent initial assessments, including a head-out 20 m swim and a one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength test in three exercises: bench press, seated pull row, and half squat. These exercises were used as the experimental (EXP) condition. During the main testing sessions, participants completed the EXP and a control (CON) condition. In the EXP, players completed MS training (three sets of six repetitions at 80% 1RM), followed 15 min later by in-water testing. In the CON, only the in-water tests were performed. These included a 10 s tethered swim to measure force, a 20 m head-out swim at maximum intensity to measure performance time, ten goal-targeted throws to reach the highest accuracy and throwing velocity, and three in-water vertical jumps as high as possible. Results: The performance time in the head-out 20 m swim (EXP: 14.21 ± 0.4, CON: 14.18 ± 0.5 s), tethered swimming force (EXP: 86.85 ± 14.82, CON: 89.58 ± 15.92 N), shooting velocity (EXP: 14.67 ± 1.19, CON: 14.91 ± 0.32 m·s⁻¹), shooting accuracy (EXP: 16.5 ± 5.4, CON: 19.0 ± 5.1 points), and in-water vertical jump height (EXP: 51.7 ± 5.6, CON: 52.9 ± 4.2 cm) were no different between conditions (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Dryland maximum strength training performed with high loads (80% 1RM) does not impair subsequent performance during sport-specific testing in female water polo players. These findings suggest that such MS training can be safely implemented 15 min prior to in-water training sessions. Full article

This study presents a model-driven approach to the design, calibration, and application of frequency-output pressure sensors integrated within an intelligent system for real-time monitoring of rowing performance. The proposed system captures biomechanical parameters of the “boat–rower” complex across 50 parallel channels with a temporal resolution of 8–12 ms. At the core of the sensing architecture are parametric pressure transducers incorporating strain-gauge primary elements and microelectronic auto-generator circuits featuring negative differential resistance (NDR). These oscillating circuits convert mechanical stress into high-frequency output signals in the 1749.9–1751.9 MHz range, with pressure sensitivities from 0.365 kHz/kPa to 1.370 kHz/kPa. The sensor models are derived using physical energy conversion principles, enabling the formulation of analytical expressions for transformation and sensitivity functions. These models simplify sensitivity tuning and allow clear interpretation of how structural and electronic parameters influence output frequency. The system architecture eliminates the need for analog-to-digital converters and signal amplifiers, reducing cost and power consumption, while enabling wireless ultra high frequency (UHF) transmission of sensor data. Integrated algorithms analyze the influence of biomechanical variables on athlete performance, enabling real-time diagnostics. The proposed model-based methodology offers a scalable and accurate solution for intelligent sports instrumentation and beyond. Full article

Background: Rowing is a highly demanding endurance sport, requiring simultaneous work of approximately 70% of the body’s muscle mass and the combined contribution of aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the cardiorespiratory responses and performance characteristics of elite junior male and female rowers during maximal effort over 2000 m on a rowing ergometer. Methods: Fifteen junior rowers (six males aged 15–17 and nine females aged 15–18) participated in the study. Anthropometric data (body height, weight, and body surface area) were recorded. All participants performed a maximal 2000 m test on a Concept2 D-model ergometer. Throughout the test, oxygen uptake (VO₂), carbon dioxide production (VCO₂), heart rate, and ventilation parameters were continuously measured. Performance and physiological data were analyzed in three intensity zones, defined by ventilatory thresholds (VT1–VT3), as well as at peak exercise. Results: Significant anthropometric differences were observed between genders. In terms of performance, males completed the 2000 m test significantly faster than females (208.83 ± 87.66 s vs. 333.78 ± 97.51 s, p = 0.0253). Relative VO₂ at peak exercise was higher in males (58.73 ± 5.25 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) than females (48.32 ± 6.09 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹, p = 0.0046). In most cardiorespiratory parameters, males outperformed females significantly, except for heart rate and ventilatory equivalents. Ranking analysis revealed that higher VO₂max values were generally associated with a better placement in both genders, though this relationship was not perfectly linear. Performance time was negatively correlated with VO₂Peak (r = −0.8286; p < 0.001), rVO₂Peak (r = −0.6781; p < 0.01), and O₂P_Peak (r = −0.7729; p < 0.01). Conclusions: The findings confirm significant gender differences in anthropometric and cardiorespiratory characteristics of elite junior rowers and reinforce VO₂max as a key determinant of performance. Yet, deviations from a direct VO₂max–rank correlation highlight the influence of tactical, psychological, and biomechanical factors. Future research should provide practical recommendations for monitoring performance and tailoring training to optimize adaptation and long-term athlete development. Full article

This study presents a low-cost wearable system for monitoring and classifying paddle strokes in open-water environments. Building upon our previous work in controlled aquatic and dryland settings, the proposed system consists of ESP32-based embedded nodes equipped with MPU6050 accelerometer–gyroscope sensors. These nodes communicate via the ESP-NOW protocol in a master–slave architecture. With minimal hardware modifications, the system implements gesture classification using Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) to distinguish between left and right paddle strokes. The collected data, including stroke type, count, and motion similarity, are transmitted in real time to a local interface for visualization. Field experiments were conducted on a calm lake using a paddleboard, where users performed a series of alternating strokes. In addition to gesture recognition, the study includes empirical testing of ESP-NOW communication range in the open lake environment. The results demonstrate reliable wireless communication over distances exceeding 100 m with minimal packet loss, confirming the suitability of ESP-NOW for low-latency data transfer in open-water conditions. The system achieved over 80% accuracy in stroke classification and sustained more than 3 h of operational battery life. This approach demonstrates the feasibility of real-time, wearable-based motion tracking for water sports in natural environments, with potential applications in kayaking, rowing, and aquatic training systems. Full article

(1) Background: Fatigue impacts neuromuscular performance, especially in endurance sports like rowing. The aim is to explore how continuous workload affects explosiveness and fatigue progression. This study examines acute fatigue during repeated race events by assessing vertical jump height, force output, and subjective fatigue over three consecutive days at the 2024 Hungarian National Rowing Championships. (2) Methods: Nine rowers (five women, four men; mean age 20.17 ± 1.73 years) competed in multiple 2000 m races over three days. Lower limb explosiveness was measured via countermovement jump (CMJ) using a Kistler force plate, pre- and post-race. Heart rate data were recorded with Polar Team Pro^®. Subjective fatigue was assessed using the ‘Daily Wellness Questionnaire’. (3) Results: We found a significant difference in the pattern of the medians of the force exerted by males during the jump between the results of the Thursday preliminaries (ThuQ_Me = 13.3) and the second final (ThuF2_Me = −75.5). Women showed no notable changes. (4) Conclusion: Repeated high-intensity races induce neuromuscular fatigue in men, reflected in reduced explosiveness and increased subjective fatigue. Future research should incorporate biochemical markers to deepen the understanding of fatigue mechanisms. 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

Maximal and explosive strength—defined as the ability to rapidly generate high levels of force—are widely recognized as critical for performance in strength–power sports such as track and field throwing. However, their interrelationship remains insufficiently examined, particularly in the upper body of elite athletes. This study examined the relationship between early force production (≤250 ms, subdivided into early phase: 0–100 ms; late phase: 100–250 ms) and peak isometric upper-body push and pull force in elite Swedish track and field throwers. A total of 30 athletes (17 females, 13 males; aged 18–34 years), all competing nationally or internationally in discus, hammer, shot put, or javelin, participated in a cross-sectional assessment. Isometric force was measured during bench press (push) and supine bench row (pull) using a custom-built device. Force output was recorded at 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 ms, along with peak force. The results showed a progressive increase in the correlation between force at early time points and peak force. Associations were weak to moderate at 50–100 ms (r = 0.07–0.55) and became strong to very strong at 150–250 ms (r = 0.64–0.92). These patterns were consistent across sexes and test types. The findings suggest that maximal strength becomes increasingly important as force production time extends beyond 100 ms. Coaches may benefit from assessing both early and peak force characteristics to inform strength profiling and guide training focus, though further research is needed to determine their impact on performance. Full article

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the potential for microgeneration of electrical energy from human physical activity and reviews current commercial and research solutions, including stationary bicycles, treadmills, rowing ergometers, strength equipment, and kinetic floor systems. The physiological foundations of human energy generation are examined, with attention to key factors such as age, gender, fitness level, maximum oxygen uptake, heart rate, and hydration. The study includes mathematical models of energy conversion from metabolic to electrical output, incorporating fatigue as a limiting factor in long-duration performance. Available energy storage technologies (e.g., lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and flywheels) and intelligent energy management systems (EMS) for use in sports facilities and net-zero energy buildings are also reviewed. As part of the study, a conceptual design of a multifunctional training and diagnostic device is proposed to illustrate potential technological directions. This device integrates microgeneration with dynamic physiological monitoring and adaptive load control through power electronic conversion. The paper highlights both the opportunities and limitations of harvesting human-generated energy and outlines future directions for sustainable energy applications in fitness environments. A preliminary economic analysis is also included, showing that while the energy payback alone is limited, the device offers commercial potential when combined with diagnostic and smart fitness services and may contribute to broader building energy efficiency strategies through integration with intelligent energy systems. Full article

Background: To achieve victory, kayaking and rowing athletes must develop optimal aerobic conditioning and the capacity to sustain anaerobic work production. To assess these characteristics, power output (PO), lactatemia response, and maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max) are usually measured. The goal of this research is to report the values of PO, lactatemia, and VO₂max—expressed in relative, absolute, and body size-scaled values—in successful international-level athletes to provide reference values for those striving to compete at the highest level. Methods: A total of 15 international-level medallist boat sports athletes were recruited: 8 male kayakers (age 21 ± 3 years, height 181.7 ± 5.3 cm, body mass 78.7 ± 5.6 kg), 2 female kayakers (age 22 ± 2 years, height 168.0 ± 2.8 cm, body mass 64.9 ± 2.7 kg), and 5 male rowers (age 20 ± 1 years, height 181.9 ± 4.7 cm, body mass 83.9 ± 7.3 kg). The athletes’ PO, lactatemia, and VO₂max were assessed using an off-water, sport-specific cardiopulmonary test on a paddle and rowing ergometer. Results: Respectively, in male and female kayakers and male rowers, maximum lactatemia was 11.9 ± 2.2 mmol/L, 9.3 ± 3.6 mmol/L, and 13.2 ± 3.7 mmol/L; maximum PO was 225.0 ± 13.4 W, 162.5 ± 31.8 W and 432.0 ± 33.5 W; and VO₂max was 57.6 ± 5.4 mL/min/kg, 52.2 ± 1.0 mL/min/kg, and 63.7 ± 11.7 mL/min/kg. VO₂max scaled by body size was, respectively, 311 ± 39 mL/kg^0.67/min, 319 ± 15 mL/kg^0.67/min, and 330 ± 72 mL/kg^0.67/min. Conclusions: This study is the first to report the values of PO, lactatemia, and VO₂max—expressed in relative, absolute, and body size-scaled values—assessed during a sport-specific cardiopulmonary test in international-level boat sports athletes. These values could be a preliminary reference guideline for optimal cardiorespiratory conditioning in athletes aiming at international-level competitions. Full article

The objective of this study was to characterize bone, muscle, and fat measurements in early adulthood by youth sport participation. The study sample included 328 Iowa Bone Development Study participants (184 females). Organized sport participation was longitudinally assessed (14 times on average) using a physical activity questionnaire from age 6 to 17 years. At age 23 years, bone, lean mass (a proxy measure of muscle mass), and fat mass were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Tibial bone stiffness, a bone strength indicator, was determined using high-resolution multi-row detector computed tomography (CT) and Finite Element Analysis. Longitudinal youth sport participation patterns were categorized into consistent participation, drop-out, and no participation. Sex-specific multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between youth sport participation patterns and bone mineral content (BMC), lean mass index (LMI), fat mass index (FMI), BMC-to-lean ratio, lean-to-fat ratio, and tibial bone stiffness at age 23 years. After adjusting for covariates, males in the consistent youth sport participation and drop-out groups had 377 g and 192 g higher BMC, 1.6 kg/m² and 1.5 kg/m² higher LMI, and 112 kN/mm and 76 kN/mm higher bone stiffness at age 23, compared to males in the no-participation group (p < 0.01). Females in the consistent youth sport participation group had 1.4 kg/m² lower FMI at age 23, compared to females in the no-participation group (p = 0.04). The BMC-to-lean ratio was higher among males (p = 0.02) and females (p < 0.01) in the consistent participation group, compared to their counterparts in the no-participation group; the lean-to-fat ratio also tended to be higher in males (p = 0.06) and females (p = 0.11). This study suggests sex differences in the benefits of youth sport participation on adulthood body compartments: healthier bone and muscle for males and healthier body fat for females. This study provides evidence to support the promotion of youth sport participation for healthy body composition later in life. Full article

Introduction: Arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) is associated with an increased failure rate over time. The Recenter implant, a metal block, is designed to reinforce capsulolabral repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of the Recenter implant to ABR reduces the rate of recurrence in patients with glenohumeral anterior instability. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, multicentric case–control study focusing on patients surgically treated for anterior shoulder instability from February 2012 to November 2019. This study compared patients undergoing ABR augmented with the “Recenter” implant (augmented ABR group) against those receiving traditional ABR. Primary outcomes measured included recurrence rates. Secondary outcome measures included functional scores (Walch–Duplay and the subjective shoulder test [SST], the auto Rowe score, satisfaction, pain, and the presence or absence of subjective subluxation and apprehension), return to sports, the range of motion, as well as other complications. Results: Thirty-two patients with augmented ABR were compared to forty-eight patients in the traditional ABR group, with mean follow-up periods of 5.2 ± 1.3 years and 6.1 ± 1.5 years, respectively. Three patients (9.4%) experienced recurrence in the “Recenter” group, versus eight (16.7%) in the other group (p > 0.05). The Walch–Duplay score was 70.2 ± 8.2 in the “Recenter” group and 64.2 ± 8 in the control group (p > 0.05). The SST score out of 100 was, respectively, 84.6 ± 6 and 81.5 ± 5.5 (p = 0.05). There were no early complications in the implant group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups for the other outcomes. Conclusions: ABR safely restores shoulder stability in selected patients with subcritical glenoid bone deficiency. However, the addition of the Recenter metal implant did not improve outcomes compared to traditional Bankart repair and introduced presumed significant surgical time, technical challenges, and additional costs. Full article

Sprint performance plays a crucial role in various sports. Short sprints vary depending on the size of the court/playing field and on competitive characteristics, but are common in many sports. Although the relationship between age and muscle strength has been explored in short sprints, there is limited understanding of how various physical factors interact, particularly concerning differences in the acceleration phase. This study examined the relationship between sprint times at 0–2.5 m, 2.5–5 m, and 5–10 m intervals and various factors (body composition, flexibility, muscle strength, physical fitness) in junior athletes (13 boys; 13 girls; average age 11.37 ± 1.30 years; 7 in badminton, 8 in fencing, 5 in rowing, and 6 in climbing). The sprint time was measured using four timing lights at 0 m (start point), 2.5 m, 5 m, and 10 m (finish point). The results indicated that sprint times increased with age, and is correlated with muscle strength and flexibility. A partial correlation analysis showed that faster times in the 0–2.5 m interval were associated with higher hip flexibility (right: r = −0.42, p = 0.035; left: r = −0.60, p = 0.001); in the 2.5–5 m interval, faster times were associated with higher core flexibility (right: r = −0.34, p = 0.091; left: r = −0.40, p = 0.046); and in the 5–10 m interval, a relationship with standing long jump performance was confirmed (r = −0.56, p = 0.003). Furthermore, a lower fat-free body weight translated to higher performance (0–2.5 m: r = 0.40, p = 0.047; 2.5 m: r = 0.37, p = 0.071; 5–10 m: r = 0.55, p = 0.004). In the acceleration phase of 10 m, flexibility immediately after the start and the subsequent horizontal propulsive force are important factors that are strongly related to performance change in each interval. These results emphasize that even over a short distance such as 10 m, the factors influencing performance can change significantly. This highlights the importance of overall flexibility, propulsive power and body fat regulation in junior short sprinters, as well as the need for daily training carefully tailored to the specific sprint distances required in each sport. Full article

This study was conducted to allow us to understand the subjective experiences of medical students participating in rowing exercise classes at a medical school in South Korea and to derive implications for medical education. Accordingly, we analyzed their reflective journals, focusing on leadership and teamwork development. The study involved 40 second-year premedical students, and Colaizzi’s analysis was employed to understand and structure their experiences. The comprehensive analysis revealed 149 meaningful statements expressing students’ thoughts and experiences regarding the rowing exercise. From these statements, 13 meanings were synthesized, resulting in nine themes and four overarching categories, which provided a multilayered understanding of students’ experiences. The factors that enhanced teamwork included communication, trust, respect among team members, and a sense of responsibility. By contrast, the hindering factors were competitiveness, impatience, and avoidance of responsibility. Before the class, a mix of anticipation, excitement, and dissatisfaction regarding the rowing exercise course was observed. However, after the class, students realized that the role of the entire team, rather than individual ability, is crucial, and collaboration with peers is key—the concept of shared leadership. This study is significant in that it demonstrates rowing’s potential as a team sport to serve as an effective program for fostering collaboration and leadership within the medical school curriculum. Full article

Rowing is a complex sport where technique can significantly impact performance. A better understanding of the rowers’ technique and neuromuscular activations during scull rowing, along with their impact on rowing performance, could greatly help trainers and athletes. Twelve male rowers were asked to row at their competitive stroke rate, and we collected data describing neuromuscular activations, trunk and arm kinematics, as well as technical determinants such as oar angles and angle asymmetries. We fitted linear mixed-effect models to investigate the effects of these variables on power production and boat speed. A larger effective angle had the greatest positive effect on power output, and slip angles had the largest negative effects. Increased elbow flexion at catch had the greatest negative effect on speed. Angle asymmetries affected neither power nor speed. Increased upper limb neuromuscular activity during the first and third quarters of the drive phase helped reduce slip angles, thus increasing performance. Power and speed were influenced similarly by the predictor variables. Still, they showed subtle differences, indicating that the strategies to maximize power production might not be the best ones to also achieve the maximum speed. Full article

Internationally, few studies have been written on the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers, and there is no research on the subject in Hungary. This is particularly important in weight-related sports such as rowing. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in the summer of 2023. In a non-random convenience sampling, our target population consisted of certified competitive rowers (n = 222). In addition to socio-demographic, performance-related questions, the anonymous, self-completed questionnaire used the validated The Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI). Results were considered significant when p < 0.05. A total of 57 lightweight (25.67%) and 165 openweight (74.33%) rowers participated in the study. On the perfectionism subscale and the interoceptive awareness subscale, rowers competing in the lightweight category scored significantly higher (p = 0.03; p = 0.05). Scores on the EDI subscales, gender and BMI data did not show significant relationships. Overall, rowers in the openweight group scored higher on the bulimia subscale, but no rowers who met all criteria and could be identified as having eating disorders. Rowers who have only competed in national championships and not in international competitions were more likely to reduce stress levels by eating. The study showed that the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers is no higher than in the general population. However, continued assessment, further extensive research and education of rowers is essential in this area, as weight-related sports will always be a risk group for eating disorders. Full article