Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Behavioral Sciences behavsci	2.5	2.6	2011	28.7 Days	CHF 2200	Submit
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology jfmk	2.6	4.2	2016	19.7 Days	CHF 1600	Submit
Sports sports	2.2	4.1	2013	19.1 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

11 pages, 210 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Neuropsychological Performance: How Mental Health Drives Attentional Function in University-Level Football Athletes

by Sacha Assadourian, Dima Daher, Catherine Leclerc, Antony Branco Lopes and Arnaud Saj

Sports 2025, 13(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13030061 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 518

This preliminary study investigates the potential relationship between electrophysiological profiles measured by quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) and attentional performance in 34 university American football players. QEEG data revealed patterns associated with burnout, chronic pain, and insomnia among the athletes. Attentional performance was generally average, [...] Read more.

This preliminary study investigates the potential relationship between electrophysiological profiles measured by quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) and attentional performance in 34 university American football players. QEEG data revealed patterns associated with burnout, chronic pain, and insomnia among the athletes. Attentional performance was generally average, but players exhibited faster reaction times in the alertness task without warning, fewer errors in the sustained attention task, and lower scores in the divided attention task, favoring visual information over auditory information. Significant negative correlations emerged between QEEG profiles associated with burnout, ADHD, depression, and anxiety and specific attentional subcomponents. These findings suggest a link between mental health-related brain activity and attentional performance. In a clinical context, they emphasize the need for early detection and intervention in mental health problems. This might improve cognitive performance and well-being in athletes. However, due to the small sample size and the lack of a control group, these results are considered preliminary, and further research is required to confirm and expand on these associations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

21 pages, 3873 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Perceptual-Cognitive Training on Anticipation and Decision-Making Skills in Team Sports: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Ruihan Zhu, Man Zheng, Shuang Liu, Jia Guo and Chunmei Cao

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100919 - 9 Oct 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3696

Abstract

Team sports require athletes’ exceptional perceptual-cognitive skills, such as anticipation and decision-making. Perceptual-cognitive training in laboratories aims to enhance these abilities. However, its effectiveness in real-game performance remains controversial, necessitating a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine optimal training methods. Following the PRISMA [...] Read more.

Team sports require athletes’ exceptional perceptual-cognitive skills, such as anticipation and decision-making. Perceptual-cognitive training in laboratories aims to enhance these abilities. However, its effectiveness in real-game performance remains controversial, necessitating a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine optimal training methods. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched databases (e.g., PubMed, WOS, Scopus, and EBSCO) for relevant studies published before November 2023, assessed study quality, extracted important characteristics, and conducted a meta-analysis using Stata 15.1. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023494324). A total of 22 quantitative studies involving 45 effect sizes were included. Perceptual-cognitive training positively influenced elite athletes’ anticipation and decision-making. However, its transfer effect on real-game performance improvement (ES = 0.65) was inferior to laboratory performance improvement (ES = 1.51). Sub-group analyses indicated that the effects of training interventions varied based on stimulus presentation and intervention duration. Based on our findings, we concluded that while perceptual-cognitive training improved on-court performance, its transfer effects were limited. To maximize effectiveness, future interventions should use virtual reality to present training stimuli and incorporate participants’ sport-specific responses to reflect real-game scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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21 pages, 1190 KiB

Open AccessReview

Photobiomodulation as Medicine: Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Acute Tissue Injury or Sport Performance Recovery

by Julia Lawrence and Karin Sorra

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040181 - 27 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6868

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has gained traction in sports and exercise medicine as a non-invasive therapeutic for preconditioning the body, exertion recovery, repair and injury rehabilitation. LLLT is hypothesized to modulate cellular metabolism, tissue microenvironment(s) and to decrease inflammation while posing [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has gained traction in sports and exercise medicine as a non-invasive therapeutic for preconditioning the body, exertion recovery, repair and injury rehabilitation. LLLT is hypothesized to modulate cellular metabolism, tissue microenvironment(s) and to decrease inflammation while posing few adverse risks. This review critically examines the evidence-base for LLLT effectiveness focusing on immediate care settings and acute/subacute applications (<6 months post-injury). Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted, prioritizing systematic reviews, meta-analyses and their primary research papers. Results: Findings are relevant to trainers and athletes as they manage a wide range of issues from superficial abrasions to deeper tissue concerns. LLLT parameters in the research literature include wide ranges. For body surface structures, studies show that LLLT holds promise in accelerating wound healing. In sport performance studies, LLLT is typically delivered pre-exercise and reveals beneficial effects on exertion recovery, improvements in muscle strength, endurance and reduced fatigue. Evidence is less convincing for acute, deep tissue injury models, where most studies do not report significant benefits for functional outcomes over conventional therapeutic modalities. Conclusions: Variability in LLLT delivery parameters and findings across studies underscores a need for clear treatment guidelines for the profession. Technical properties of laser light delivery to the body also differ materially from LED devices. Sport physiotherapists, team physicians, trainers and athletes should understand limitations in the current evidence-base informing photobiomodulation use in high-performance sport settings and weigh potential benefits versus shortcomings of LLLT use in the mentioned therapeutic contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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18 pages, 569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Motivations and Strategies of Sport-Based Corporate Social Responsibility: Multiple Case Studies of Taiwanese Enterprises

by Huei-Fu Lu

Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6027; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146027 - 15 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4261

Abstract

Since the United Nations announced the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) guiding global efforts from 2016 to 2030, corporate organizations have increasingly integrated SDGs into their cultures, adopting innovative strategies to practice sustainable development. [...] Read more.

Since the United Nations announced the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) guiding global efforts from 2016 to 2030, corporate organizations have increasingly integrated SDGs into their cultures, adopting innovative strategies to practice sustainable development. This integration has yielded numerous inspiring breakthroughs and success stories. Corporate organizations have found significant contemporary relevance in practicing corporate social responsibility (CSR) through sports. This study explores the motivations for and the scope of CSR activities undertaken by Taiwanese enterprises that use sports as a vehicle. Through in-depth interviews and multiple case studies, this study examines the commonalities and uniqueness of sport-based CSR, providing a detailed depiction of the current state and challenges faced by enterprises engaging in sport-based CSR and sustainable development. The findings will lead to new perspectives and feasible strategic directions for the advancement of sport-based CSR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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13 pages, 1233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tactical Situations and Playing Styles as Key Performance Indicators in Soccer

by Spyridon Plakias, Themistoklis Tsatalas, Vasileios Armatas, Dimitris Tsaopoulos and Giannis Giakas

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020088 - 21 May 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4720

Abstract

The game of soccer is complex and unpredictable, demanding multifaceted strategies for success. Performance analysis has evolved, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) to determine the factors that most significantly influence a team’s success or failure during matches. Traditional performance analysis methods have [...] Read more.

The game of soccer is complex and unpredictable, demanding multifaceted strategies for success. Performance analysis has evolved, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) to determine the factors that most significantly influence a team’s success or failure during matches. Traditional performance analysis methods have emphasized quantifiable data like physical exertion and basic play events but often neglected the subtler tactical dimensions that could significantly impact game outcomes. This study aimed to fill the gap in the current literature by creating a comprehensive framework that incorporates tactical situations as KPIs. The objective was to examine whether specific playing styles adopted by teams in various tactical situations and phases of the game could predict the outcome of matches. A dataset comprising all First Division Championship matches from 11 different European countries for the 2021–2022 season was analyzed. Variables representing tactical situations were correlated with match outcomes using a Generalized Estimating Equation framework. The model was specified with a binomial distribution and a logit link function. Statistical significance was determined using Wald χ² tests with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The study’s findings revealed that possession style, counterattacking during offensive transitions, and a balanced aggressive defensive strategy significantly increase a team’s chances of victory. It also showed that successful teams tend to focus on central attacks, minimize crossing, and execute strategic plays that lead to final attempts on goal with minimal ball possession. The above findings demonstrate that adopting certain tactical approaches significantly influences soccer match outcomes, highlighting the importance of considering tactical aspects as KPIs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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13 pages, 1617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Properties of the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS) for Brazilian Sports

by Renan Codonhato, Paulo Vitor Suto Aizava, Enzo Berbery and Lenamar Fiorese

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14060425 - 21 May 2024

Viewed by 1473

Abstract

Interest in psychosocial predictors of doping has been increasing as a way of finding new approaches to reduce the use of performance-enhancing drugs. This investigation aimed to test the psychometric properties of an instrument to assess doping attitudes in Brazilian athletes. The PEAS [...] Read more.

Interest in psychosocial predictors of doping has been increasing as a way of finding new approaches to reduce the use of performance-enhancing drugs. This investigation aimed to test the psychometric properties of an instrument to assess doping attitudes in Brazilian athletes. The PEAS was validated in Brazilian sports through a process of translation, back-translation and content validity assessment, presenting satisfactory evidence based on its content (CVC > 0.80). Then, 994 athletes from different sexes, types of sports and competitive levels answered the Brazilian version of the PEAS. The results showed satisfactory evidence of validity based on its response process, internal structure (X²/df = 2.04; RMSEA = 0.032 (0.026–0.038); CFI = 0.96; TLI = 0.95) and reliability (Cronbach’s α, McDonald’s ω and CR > 0.70). Network analysis was also used to further explore the PEAS’s internal structure. Overall, the results provide support for the adoption of the PEAS for Brazilian athletes and possibly other Portuguese-speaking countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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20 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Asymmetries: An Exploratory Study of Women’s Experiences in Portuguese Football Organizations

by Maria Helena Santos, António Manuel Marques and Joana Salvador

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1228-1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050081 - 4 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1935

Abstract

The main objective of this exploratory study is to analyze the negative effects associated with the phenomenon of tokenism for Portuguese women in non-playing football roles, as well as their strategies for integration into a context where they are a minority and the [...] Read more.

The main objective of this exploratory study is to analyze the negative effects associated with the phenomenon of tokenism for Portuguese women in non-playing football roles, as well as their strategies for integration into a context where they are a minority and the social functions are dominated by men. To this end, we carried out semi-structured individual interviews with eight men and eight women, undertaking functions in the fields of coaching, psychology, medical team, planning, refereeing, and management in football organizations, and with their contents then subject to thematic analysis. Our analysis confirms how the football context strongly demarcates gender differences with women being more visible and leads to the stereotypical roles being associated with traditional femininity. The findings also observe how, in order to integrate, women align with the norms imposed by the dominant group (men) and accept being circumscribed to the spaces that hegemonic gender ideologies and practices attribute to them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

17 pages, 858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change Awareness and Pro-Environmental Intentions in Sports Fans: Applying the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior Model for Sustainable Spectating

by Soowoong Hwang, Jiho Lee and Dojin Jang

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3246; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083246 - 12 Apr 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3281

Abstract

(1) Background: This study explores the intricate relationship between sports and the environment, underscoring the influence of individual awareness of climate change consequences on fostering eco-friendly behavior among sports spectators. (2) Methods: The research introduces an extended theory of planned behavior model, incorporating [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study explores the intricate relationship between sports and the environment, underscoring the influence of individual awareness of climate change consequences on fostering eco-friendly behavior among sports spectators. (2) Methods: The research introduces an extended theory of planned behavior model, incorporating climate change awareness. Analyzing data from 431 participants at US professional sports events, the study measured variables like climate change awareness and theory of planned behavior constructs. (3) Results: Sequential multiple mediation analysis validated the model, revealing that climate change awareness positively predicts the intention to reduce single-use plastics in the context of sport spectatorship. This relationship was partially mediated by theory of planned behavior variables, with subjective norms identified as a crucial explanatory factor. (4) Conclusions: The study’s originality lies in shedding light on pro-environmental intentions within sports spectatorship. Its insights provide foundational knowledge for researchers and organizations aiming to devise sustainability strategies in the realm of sports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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12 pages, 446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Audience Behavior between eSports and Authentic Sports Fans

by Taeyeon Oh, Joon-Ho Kang, Younghan Lee and Soyon Michelle Choi

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040313 - 11 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2761

Abstract

This study analyzed how the behavioral patterns of esports and authentic sports viewers differ, adopting user and gratification theory and media transportation theory. In particular, it was investigated whether there was a difference in behavioral patterns according to the experience of playing the [...] Read more.

This study analyzed how the behavioral patterns of esports and authentic sports viewers differ, adopting user and gratification theory and media transportation theory. In particular, it was investigated whether there was a difference in behavioral patterns according to the experience of playing the sport even among authentic sports viewers. As a result of analyzing the relationship between viewers’ motivation and media transportation outcomes through structural equation modeling and multigroup structural equation modeling, it was observed that cognitive motivation was more important for esports viewers than for authentic sports viewers. A second analysis of comparisons among fans of authentic sports showed that viewers with sports experience had greater cognitive needs. This result shows that there is a difference between the viewer behaviors of esports and traditional sports, but it is concluded that the presence or absence of sports participation experience rather than content is the factor that separates the difference. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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16 pages, 3338 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expert Performance in Action Anticipation: Visual Search Behavior in Volleyball Spiking Defense from Different Viewing Perspectives

by Ruihan Zhu, Deze Zou, Keji Wang and Chunmei Cao

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14030163 - 22 Feb 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2523

Abstract

Volleyball spiking requires defenders to possess exceptional anticipatory skills. However, most volleyball defense video eye-tracking studies have used fixed or off-court perspectives, failing to replicate real-world environments. This study explored different visual search behaviors between elite and novice volleyball players from various viewing [...] Read more.

Volleyball spiking requires defenders to possess exceptional anticipatory skills. However, most volleyball defense video eye-tracking studies have used fixed or off-court perspectives, failing to replicate real-world environments. This study explored different visual search behaviors between elite and novice volleyball players from various viewing perspectives using video eye tracking. We examined spiking anticipation in 14 competitive elite, 13 semi-elite, and 11 novice players. We captured spiking videos from three on-court perspectives using GoPro cameras mounted on the defenders’ heads, closely replicating real game scenarios. For comparison, we recorded baseline videos using a fixed camera. The present study revealed that competitive and semi-elite players demonstrated higher accuracy than novices. Competitive elite players used fewer fixations, indicating that their superior performance was related to stable visual search patterns. All participant groups, regardless of skill level, showed similar visual allocation among areas of interest (AOIs). However, notable differences in visual search patterns and AOI allocation were observed between baseline and on-court perspective videos. From the baseline perspective, the participants primarily utilized global perception and peripheral vision, focusing more on the setter zone or the spiker’s trunk. Conversely, from the on-court perspective, they employed more fixations, focusing more intensely on the spiker’s detailed movements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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