Female Gymnasts Research Articles

EFFECT OF DYNAMIC RANGE OF MOTION AND STATIC STRETCHING TECHNIQUES ON FLEXIBILITY, STRENGTH AND JUMP PERFORMANCE IN FEMALE GYMNASTS

The aim of this study was to determine the long term effect of dynamic range of motion (DROM) stretching technique and static stretching (SS) on hip range of motion (ROM), hip isometric strength and vertical jump performance in female gymnasts. In a randomized controlled trial eighteen gymnasts (age 13 ± 2 years) were assigned to a DROM group (n= 9) or SS group (n=9 ). Participants were assessed at baseline and again at completion of the intervention on: hip extensión (HE), hip flexion (HF), 1RM isometric HF strength, squat jump (SJ) and split leap (SL). Results: DROM group improved statistically from pre- to post-test in right leg HE ROM (13.67 ± 4.7 vs. 21.22 ± 5.2), right leg HF ROM (129.9 ± 9.9 vs. 139.0 ± 10.4), hip isometric strength for the right leg (2.0 ± 1.1 vs. 4.7 ± 1.6) and the left leg (1.7 ± 0.7 vs. 4.1 ± 1.6). Jump performance was not affected by type of stretching. Significance was set at 0.05 (2-tailed) for all analyses. DROM was more effective in improving gymnastic performance variables than SS. Such information may assist in determining the applications of various stretching techniques in flexibility-trained female athletes.

Does long-term recreational gymnastics prevent injurious falls in older women? A prospective 20-year follow-up

BackgroundExercise interventions focusing on balance and strength training have been shown to be effective for falls prevention. The aim of this 20-year register-based follow-up was to examine whether long-term participation in recreational female gymnastics is associated with a lower risk of medically-attended injurious falls.MethodsHealth care register data of 187 women (103 recreational gymnasts and 84 sedentary controls) from the original cohort of 243 women were assessed. The mean age (sd) at baseline was 62.8 (5.4) years and the mean follow-up time was 19.4 (2.7) years (range from 5.6 to 21.0 years).Injurious falls were scrutinized from medical records. An injurious fall was defined as an event in which falling was mentioned as a reason for making contact with health-care professionals. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) for injurious falls, and Cox-regression models for calculating hazard ratios (HR) for injured fallers with the control group as reference.ResultsRecreational gymnasts had about 30% less injurious falls compared to controls, the mean IRR (95% CI) being 0.71 (0.51 to 0.96). The HR for injured fallers was 0.73 (0.52 to 1.02) favoring the recreational gymnasts. There were no statistically significant between-group differences for fractures.ConclusionsLong-term recreational gymnastics appears to reduce the risk of injurious falls in old age.

Epidemiology of Foot Injuries Using National Collegiate Athletic Association Data From the 2009-2010 Through 2014-2015 Seasons.

Researchers analyzing data from the National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance Program have not considered the differences in foot injuries across specific sports and between males and females. To describe the epidemiologic differences in rates of overall foot injuries and common injuries among sports and between sexes. Descriptive epidemiology study. Online injury-surveillance data from 15 unique sports involving males and females that demonstrated 1967 injuries over 4 821 985 athlete-exposures. Male and female athletes competing in National Collegiate Athletic Association sports from the 2009-2010 through 2014-2015 seasons. Foot injury rates (per 10 000 athlete-exposures) and the proportion of foot injuries were calculated for each sport. The effect of sex was calculated using Poisson-derived confidence intervals for 8 paired sports. A risk analysis was performed using a 3 × 3 quantitative injury risk-assessment matrix based on both injury rate and mean days of time loss. Foot injury rates differed between sports, with the highest rates in female gymnastics, male and female cross-country, and male and female soccer athletes. Cross-country and track and field had the highest proportions of foot injuries for both female and male sports. The 5 most common injuries were foot/toe contusions, midfoot injuries, plantar fascia injuries, turf toe, and metatarsal fractures. Only track and field athletes demonstrated a significant sex difference in injury rates, with female athletes having the higher rate. The quantitative injury risk-assessment matrix identified the 4 highest-risk injuries, considering both rate and severity, as metatarsal fractures, plantar fascia and midfoot injuries, and foot/toe contusions. Important differences were present among sports in terms of injury rates, the most common foot injuries, and the risk (combination of frequency and severity) of injury. These differences warrant further study to determine the mechanisms of injury and target intervention efforts.

Assessment of nutritional-dietary status, body composition, eating behavior, and perceived image in rhythmic gymnastics athletes

Introduction: among adolescent gymnasts some concern for body weight has been observed, with diets inadequate in energy and some nutrients in the search for maximum performance. Objective: the aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary-nutritional status, body composition, eating behavior, and perceived body image concerns of female gymnasts at sub-national competition levels. In addition, to study the relationship between the prevalence of the risk of eating disorders and variables such as substance use, irregular menstruation, fatigue, and hours of sleep. Materials and method: a total of 33 female subelite gymnasts participated (age: M = 14.52, SD = 1.85), with age ranging from 11 to 18 years. Anthropometric evaluations (restricted profile) were made, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) were administered, and the subjects were then interviewed for collecting sociodemographic, socio-sports, health, and food intake data. Results: the results showed that their diet was deficient, among other micro- and macro-nutrients, in water, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins D and E, fiber, iron and calcium, whereas they ingested an excess of vitamin A and sodium. These athletes had normal weight, high muscle mass values, low fat mass levels, and intermediate somatotype components (balanced endomorph with a tendency to central). Two cases at risk for an eating disorder, and concerns related to perceived body image in a quarter of the sample were identified. Conclusion: the risk of having an eating disorder is related to the consumption of prohibited drugs or addictive substances, irregular menstruation, tiredness, and fewer hours of sleep.

ПСИХОЛОГІЧНА ПІДГОТОВКА СПОРТИВНОІ КОМАНДИ З ЧИРЛІДИНГУ ЯК НЕВІД 'ЄМНИЙ КОМПОНЕНТ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ ПІДГОТОВКИ МАЙБУТНІХ ФАХІВЦІВ

Introduction. Necessity of increase of sports teams results requires from the coach to concen-trate not only on physical training of athletes, but taking into account the impact of psychological factor in training and competitive process. Despite the fact the athlete's ability to maximize their physical abilities and achieve high results in team performance are defined the level of psychological training, there is still not received a full justification both in the methodical plan, and in the theory of sports. The least studied are mental states that arise under the influence of competitive activities and lead to reduced results. There is not developed the system of psychological training of sports teams, including cheer-leading, that’s why we decided to study this problem. The purpose of the article is to develop and experimen-tally substantiate the method of increasing the psycholog-ical training of cheerleading sports team, taking into ac-count the personal characteristics and features of mental states its members. The methods of analyses, synthesis, induction, deduc-tion, comparison, abstraction, experiment are used in the article. Results. Our study was devoted to research psycho-logical states of gymnasts in preparation for competitions and the development of their emotional stability, balance, ability to behave adequately in tense and complicated situations that often occur in sports. 40 female gymnasts of the student team 17-22 years old were involved in the empirical study. According to the method of S. Rosenzweig a study of frustration reactions showed that there is a self-protective type and extra punitive direction of the reaction occurs most often among the athletes. R. Cattell's 16PF questionnaire showed a high level of emotional instability and frustration among female ath-letes. By the results of R. Cattell and G. Eisenko testing methods, only 36% of students are characterized by the ability to correctly place emphasis in a frustrating situa-tion. The practical implementation of the idea of psychologi-cal support of gymnasts in the formation of personality was represented in the form of a practical training-seminar. There were 16 classes, 3 hours a class. The seminar included elements of socio-psychological training, counseling sessions, thematic classes and other forms of work, which were implemented on the basis of an inte-grated approach. The program of the seminar included the following blocks: the ideal image of a successful athlete, the formation of emotional - volitional regulation of gym-nasts, self-knowledge of athletes and skills of value choice. Retesting after working with athletes showed that the attitude of gymnasts to difficult and stressful situations of sports has changed. The number of decisive behavioral strategies in difficult situations has increased, the number of self-defense has decreased. There is a positive trend in the number of positive emotions and experiences. The analysis of self-reports of the experimental group showed that more than 85% of respondents noted an increase in self-confidence, desire for self-development, reduced internal tensions. Originality. The understanding of the psychological training role and importance in the whole system of com-petitive training raises the coaches’ professional compe-tence and improve sports results of both individual ath-letes and sports team. Conclusion. The hypothesis was fully verified and we can approve that the emotional balance of female gym-nasts directly affects the effectiveness of sports activities and represents the systemic quality of their individuality. It is characterized by possibility of diverse changes under the influence of training and correctional programs. As a result of psycho-correctional work athletes increased the level of emotional stability, self-confidence, psychological competence, increased positive emotions, decreased ten-sion, stress. Athletes-gymnasts have acquired the skills of comprehensive analysis of complex and stressful situa-tions that may arise both in the training process and during competitions, increased the number of dominant behavioral strategies aimed at finding a constructive solution to such situations

Ишиофеморальный синдром как маска апофизита малого вертела у юного спортсмена

Non-specific pelvic pain in young athletes can mask atypical disorders that are exceedingly rare among non-athletes. The diagnosis of this syndrome is very problematic, since it may concern different specialties, such as pediatric surgery, pediatrics, traumatology and orthopedics, neurology, gastroenterology, pediatric gynecology, etc. We report a case of lesser trochanter apophysitis in a 12-year-old female gymnast, who had been initially misdiagnosed and the disease had a mask of ischiofemoral syndrome. During the two-year diagnostic search, the athlete has undergone numerous instrumental examinations, some of them for several times (ultrasound, radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, helical computed tomography), as well as general clinical and laboratory examinations; however, many of them did not really narrow down, but expanded the range of diagnostic hypotheses. Treatment gave no positive dynamics. Laboratory and instrumental examinations performed within 2 years excluded a number of pathologies, but did not help to establish a correct diagnosis. Physical examination with the consideration of patient’s professional activity was a key method in the diagnosis of lesser trochanter apophysitis. The patient demonstrated positive dynamics in response to treatment, which confirmed the diagnosis. This case once again demonstrates possible atypical course of the diseases in young athletes and the importance of physical examination, which can significantly narrow down the diagnostic search. Key words: young athletes, pelvic pain syndrome, lesser trochanter apophysitis, ischiofemoral syndrome

Movement prototypes and their relationship in the performance of a gymnastics floor routine

For a better understanding of complex gymnastics performances, on the one hand, it is relevant to analyse isolated time discrete parameters, but on the other hand, it is also relevant to analyse the time-course of gymnastics skills and sequences holistically. Thus, the purpose of this study was to realize a holistic examination of a gymnastics floor routine (round off, back handspring, backward layout somersault) with an innovative approach of analysing time continuous data using a cluster analysis. Fifty-eight floor routine trials from ten female near-expert gymnasts were analysed on their movement kinematics. Time courses of six joint angles, together with the trunk orientation angle, were analysed by means of a hierarchical cluster analysis. In addition, the coefficients of variation were calculated. The results of this study revealed that for near-expert gymnasts, three to four prototypical movement patterns could be identified for each of the three skills (round off, back handspring, backward layout somersault). The different prototypical movement patterns can be differentiated by certain variant and invariant characteristics, such as the time courses of the different joint angles and their coefficients of variation. Statistically significant relationships were found between prototypes of the different gymnastics skills. In light of the training process in gymnastics, the study provides further evidence for strongly considering gymnasts’ movement pattern as well as for focusing on particular movement characteristics rather than on particular gymnastics skills in regard to motor skill acquisition and optimization.

Силовая подготовленность студенток-гимнасток

Силовая подготовленность студенток-гимнасток

Effectiveness of additional Mulligan taping over conventional therapy in young female gymnasts with lateral ankle sprain

BACKGROUND: Researchers found that ankle sprains accounted for sports-related injuries in twenty high school sports. Mulligan taping which is well known for ankle sprain and can be easily sustained by subjects. The study was conducted to determine the effect of Mulligan taping on the incidence and severity of ankle injury in women's gymnastics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study design: Experimental study. Sample size: Sixty. Study setting: Gymnastics sports complexes in and around the city area. Sample distribution: Alternate allocation method. Study sampling: Purposive sampling. Inclusion criteria: Gymnasts diagnosed/ Prediagnosed with lateral ankle sprain (LAS)grade 2(sub acute) more than 2 weeks, vault and rhythmic gymnastics player of10–20 years of female practicing gymnastics more than 2 months and reporting minimum two episodes of giving away. Exclusion criteria: Recent surgeries on lower limbs, male gymnasts, recent fracture of the ankle and chronic ankle sprains. Procedure: Total sixty gymnasts' satisfying the inclusion–exclusion criteria and were divided into two equal groups by alternate allocation method i.e. Group A who underwent additional Mulligan taping with glides and Group B who underwent only conventional therapy. Post treatment data was collected and statistically analysed. Outcome measures: Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). RESULTS: In Group A, t-value pre- and posttreatment for FAAM score was 48.346, which shows a significant change at P CONCLUSION: Additional Mulligan taping has shown significant effects over conventional therapy in young female gymnasts with LAS.

Upper respiratory tract symptoms and salivary immunoglobulin A of elite female gymnasts: a full year longitudinal field study

Upper respiratory tract symptoms and salivary immunoglobulin A of elite female gymnasts: a full year longitudinal field study

Upper respiratory tract symptoms and salivary immunoglobulin A of elite female gymnasts: a full year longitudinal field study.

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of upper respiratory tract symptoms (URS) in elite female gymnasts during a training season. In addition, we aimed to observe the extent to which salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA) is associated with URS in these athletes, including potential effects of the season and timing of sample collection. Over one year, 18 elite female gymnasts completed URS and fatigue questionnaires weekly and provided 1 mL of saliva after a minimum 36 h of rest (morning or afternoon) to measure relative sIgA concentration (= mean absolute sIgA value of the week divided by the mean absolute sIgA value of the weeks without URS). Mean weekly URS and mean relative sIgA values per gymnast correlated negatively (r = -0.606, P = 0.022). Most URS were noted in the most fatigued gymnasts (7.4 ± 10.1 vs. 2.5 ± 5.6 (P < 0.001) for ‘normal’ and 2.1 ± 3.7 (P = 0.001) for ‘better than normal’ rested). In spring, relative sIgA was higher compared to autumn (112 ± 55 vs. 89 ± 41%, P < 0.001) and winter (92 ± 35%, P = 0.001), while during summer, relative sIgA appeared higher compared to autumn (110 ± 55 vs. 89 ± 41%, P = 0.016). The interaction effect with timing of sample collection showed higher relative sIgA values in morning samples in spring and summer compared to afternoon samples, with the inverse observed in autumn and winter (F = 3.565, P = 0.014). During a gymnastics season, lower relative sIgA values were linked to higher susceptibility to URS in elite gymnasts. However, relative sIgA values were influenced by season and timing of sample collection and thus should be considered when interpreting sIgA data.

Nutrition and body composition of elite rhythmic gymnasts from Bulgaria

Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport in which special consideration is given to diet and body appearance. The purpose of this study was to assess the nutrient intake and body composition of elite rhythmic gymnasts in comparison with guidelines for female gymnasts. Twenty-one elite rhythmic gymnasts from Bulgaria were divided into three groups: First National Team, mean age 24.2; Second National Team, mean age 17.8; and Junior National Team, mean age 12.6. Body fat and muscle mass were estimated by skinfold methods, and a food frequency questionnaire was applied to assess the nutrient intake. The gymnasts showed low per cent of body fat (13.9% for the First National Team, 17.0% for the Second National Team, and 15.6% for the Junior National Team) and high per cent muscle mass (44.0, 40.5, and 37.6%, respectively). They kept their weight close to the ideal one, as recommended by the coaches, and the following equation best corresponded to the recommended ideal weight: height (cm) − 118. The energy intake was lower than the calculated energy requirements, in addition to low intake of fat and carbohydrates. The relative protein intake was 1.7 g/kg for the First National Team, 1.7 g/kg for the Second National Team, and 1.9 g/kg for Junior National Team, and the energy contribution of proteins was higher than the recommended 15%. Rhythmic gymnasts should be encouraged to maintain their ideal weight without great variance from the health-related guidelines, and coaches should consider not only the body image, but also the norms relating to body composition in women when determining ideal weight.

웨이트 트레이닝 프로그램이 여자기계체조선수들의 순발력 변인에 미치는 영향

이 연구는 8주간의 웨이트 트레이닝이 여자 기계체조 선수의 순발력 변화에 미치는 영향을 분석하여 기계체조선수의 경기력 향상 및 지도자들에게 보다 체계적이며 과학적인 훈련에 대한 기초 자료를 제공 하는데 그 목적이 있다. 연구대상자는 여자 기계체조 선수를 대상으로 연구의 목적과 내용을 설명 한 후, 자발적인 참여를 희망하는 대학 및 일반부 12명을 대상으로 실험집단 6명, 통제집단 6명으로 나누어 선정하였다. 자료처리는 SPSS 22.0 프로그램을 이용하여 웨이트 트레이닝 프로그램이 연구 참여자의 모든 측정결과는 기술통계분석을 통해, 평균(M), 표준편차(SD)를 산출하고, 훈련이 선수의 체력에 미치는 영향을 검증하기 위하여 반복측정 이원 변량 분산분석(Two-way repeated measures ANOVA)을 실시, 통계적으로 유의한 항목은 독립 t검정 (Independent sample t-test)과 일원변량분산분석 (One-way ANOVA)으로 분석하고 Tukey의 사후검정을 실시하였다. 모든 통계적 검증을 위해 유의도 수준은 α=.05로 설정하였다. 연구결과 첫째, 제자리 멀리뛰기에서 집단 간의 차이는 나타나지 않았으며, 측정 시기에 따른 변화에서 유의미한 차이가 나타났으나 집단 간과 측정시기의 상호작용 효과는 없는 것으로 나타났다. 둘째, 제자리 높이뛰기에서 집단 간의 차이가 나타나지 않았으며, 측정 시기에 따른 변화에서 유의미한 차이가 나타났지만 집단 간과 측정 시기의 상호작용 효과는 없는 것으로 나타났다. 셋째, 메디신볼 던지기에서는 집단 간 차이는 나타나지 않았으나, 측정 시기에 따른 변화 차이, 집단과 측정 시기의 상호작용에서 유의미한 차이가 나타났으나 사후검정 결과 유의미한 차이가 나타나지 않았다. 넷째, 수직 팔 뻗기에서는 집단 간의 차이가 나타나지 않았으며, 측정 시기에 따른 변화와 집단 간과 측정시기의 상호작용 효과가 있는 것으로 나타났으나 사후검정 결과 유의미한 차이가 나타나지 않았다. 추후 연구를 위해 제언하자면, 첫째, 본 연구는 8주간의 트레이닝에 대한 연구에 그쳤으나, 장기간 실시하면 더 좋은 결과를 얻을 수 있을 것으로 사료된다. 둘째, 체조선수들을 대상으로 토탈핏, BMS 등 현대적인 트레이닝기법을 연구하여 순발력에 미치는 영향을 규명할 필요성이 있다.

The Modeling method in the training process of the elite gymnasts

In this article are described some methodological approaches concerning the efficiency of the application of the modeling method in the process of training the elite gymnasts. (Female artistic gymnastics). The essence of using this method in the training process is highly appreciated, as it is particularly complex, and it involves some special examinations organized in special conditions.In the study it is also described the designing process of the model of the elite gymnast at different training stages, divided according to age and sportive categories. There are also defined some optimal physical parameters that are considered the most relevant to efficiently exteriorize all the moves during the gymnast's performance at each of the competition's events.

SOCIAL PHYSIQUE ANXIETY, DISTURBED EATING ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS, AND PERCEIVED PRESSURE FOR THIN BODY IN COMPETITIVE RHYTHMIC AND AEROBIC GYMNASTS

This study investigated social physique anxiety (SPA), disturbed eating attitudes and behaviors (DEAB), and perceived pressure for thin body by the “significant others” (coach, parents, peers, experts) in 41 female rhythmic gymnastics (RG) and 49 aerobic gymnastics (AG) athletes at competitive level. Moreover, the potential impact of gymnasts' BMI was examined and controlled. Results showed that BMI associated with gymnasts’ SPA, DEAB and perceived pressure, so its effect was controlled. There were no significant differences between RG and AG regarding SPA and DEAB, whereas AG athletes had higher parental pressure for thin body than RG athletes. When RG and AG data were merged, a high percentage (40%) of gymnasts presenting DEAB was revealed. Gymnasts with DEAB had significantly higher SPA and perceived pressure for thin body than those with normal eating attitudes and behaviors. These results underline the need for interventions involving “significant others” and aiming at DEAB prevention in female gymnasts.

Physiological Pattern Changes in Response to a Simulated Competition in Elite Women's Artistic Gymnasts.

Isacco, L, Ennequin, G, Cassirame, J, and Tordi, N. Physiological pattern changes in response to a simulated competition in elite women's artistic gymnasts. J Strength Cond Res 33(10): 2768-2777, 2019-The outstanding progress in women's artistic gymnastics in recent decades has led to increased technical and physiological demands. The aim of this study was to investigate (a) the physiological demands of elite French gymnasts and (b) the impact of a competitive routine on physiological pattern changes. Fourteen French elite female gymnasts performed anthropometric measurements, physical fitness tests, and a simulated 4-event competition. Heart rate (HR) was continuously recorded throughout the duration of the simulated competition. Blood lactate concentrations were assessed at rest, before the beginning and at 2, 4, and 10 minutes after completion of the routine on each apparatus. Isometric handgrip strength and anaerobic endurance and power were assessed during the simulated competition. The highest values of HR and blood lactate concentrations were reached during the floor and uneven bar exercises. Blood lactate concentrations and HR kinetics were apparatus dependent and values remained significantly increased at 10 minutes of recovery compared with resting data. Anaerobic endurance and power decreased significantly as the competition progressed (p < 0.001). The present results show specifically cardiorespiratory and anaerobic apparatus-dependent responses throughout a simulated competition. Recovery approaches seem relevant to prevent and minimize fatigue and optimize performance in these athletes.

Identification of Risk Factors for Injury in Women's Collegiate Gymnastics With the Gymnastics Functional Measurement Tool.

The Gymnastics Functional Measurement Tool (GFMT) is a series of 10 sport-specific tests that evaluates the physical fitness of female gymnasts. The standardized scoring system has been validated in a wide range of competitive levels. To date, there is no screening tool to identify risk factors for injury in female gymnasts. To determine if the total score on the GFMT or the individual test components can identify female collegiate gymnasts who are at risk of developing an injury. Prospective cohort study. Collegiate gymnastics training and competition facilities. One hundred female gymnasts from seven National Collegiate Athletic Association, Division I teams. Gymnasts were tested with the GFMT (vertical jump, hanging leg lifts, agility sprint, 20-meter sprint, pull-ups, push-ups, rope climb, handstand hold, lower extremity flexibility, and shoulder flexibility). Each team's certified athletic trainer recorded injuries over the course of one season. Logistic regression modeling was used to assess the relationship between each individual test and the development of upper extremity, lower extremity, or trunk injuries. Gymnastics-related injuries. A total of 160 injuries from 100 gymnasts were included in the analysis. No tests were significantly associated with developing of upper or lower extremity injuries. A higher score on the vertical jump test was associated with fewer trunk injuries (odds ratio [OR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.52-0.91; P = .01). This relationship existed even after adjusting for gymnast characteristics in a multivariable analysis. A one-unit increase in vertical jump score was associated with a 30% decrease in trunk injuries in collegiate-level female gymnasts. Future research to identify risk factors for gymnastics-related injury and methods for prevention are needed. II.

Association Between Flexibility and Low Back Pain in Female Adolescent Gymnasts.

To determine the relationship between low back pain (LBP), flexibility, and individual demographic characteristics in competitive adolescent female gymnasts. Cross-sectional observational study. Gymnastics facilities in Colorado. Six- to 18-year-old gymnasts who participate in the USA Gymnastics Women's Artistic Junior Olympic Program levels 3 to 10. Demographic data included height, weight, menstrual status, gymnastics level, and participation hours per week. Flexibility measurements were obtained on the gymnasts. Gymnasts also completed a questionnaire documenting LBP in the past 12 months. Univariable (t test and χ) analyses were used to assess between-group differences; multivariable logistic regression model was used to assess the association between LBP, flexibility, and demographics/injury history. Low back pain within the past 12 months. Thirty (45%) of 67 gymnasts reported LBP within the past year. Those who reported LBP were older (11.7 vs 13.7 years, P = 0.005), heavier (37.5 vs 43.4 kg, P = 0.049), and participated in gymnastics more often (19.1 vs 22.4 h/wk, P = 0.017). A greater proportion of gymnasts with LBP had experienced menarche compared with those without LBP (47% vs 16%; P = 0.008). On multivariable analysis, gymnasts with LBP were less likely to have left Iliotibial (IT) band tightness compared with those without LBP [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.186; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.04-0.82] and more likely to have experienced menarche (aOR = 8.0; 95% CI, 1.2-50.9). Low back pain is more common in gymnasts who experienced menarche, whereas limited joint flexibility does not seem to be associated with LBP in this population.

Mindfulness with Collegiate Gymnasts: Effects on Flow, Stress and Overall Mindfulness Levels

The physical and psychological demands of sports can place an athlete under a variety of stressors. Subsequently, the way in which athletes deal with such stressors can positively or negatively affect their performance. Flow is defined as a type of experience where one is completely engaged in an activity and optimally functioning. Recently, an increase in mindfulness and acceptance based approaches have been utilized as a means to augment negative emotions in sport and many have suggested a link between mindfulness and flow. Thus, if mindfulness can positively influence flow, perhaps performance can also be positively affected. There has also been a need to determine optimal intervention lengths to successfully teach mindfulness practices within sports teams. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of a mindfulness training program on mindfulness scores, dispositional flow scores, and perceived stress scores within a population of Division I female collegiate gymnasts. Results from a repeated measures ANOVA indicated that athletes who participated in the mindfulness training demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the dispositional flow dimensions of loss of self-consciousness and the autotelic experience. These results suggest that mindfulness may influence factors associated with athletic performance.

Epidemiology of Foot and Ankle Injuries in NCAA Jumping Athletes in the United States from 2009-2014

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of foot and ankle injuries in men’s and women’s NCAA basketball, women’s volleyball, and women’s gymnastics during the 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 seasons. Methods: Injury surveillance data was obtained from the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program (ISP) for the 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 seasons. Injuries were examined by mechanism, activity during injury, participation restriction time, and recurrence. Injury rates per 1000 athlete-exposures (AEs), injury rate ratios (IRRs), and risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Reported sex differences were calculated for men’s and women’s basketball. All 95% confidence intervals not containing 1.0 were considered statistically significant. Results: During the study period, 1136 players sustained foot and ankle injuries (483 male, 653 female) over 612,680 AEs. In total, these injuries resulted in a combined rate of 1.85/1000 athlete-exposures (AEs; 95% CI 1.75 -1.97). Ankle sprains were the most common injury overall (63.7%), with lateral ligamentous complex (LLC) injuries comprising 77.1% of all ankle sprains. The most common foot injury varied based on sport and sex. Ankle injury rates were higher in male vs female basketball players (IRR=1.33, 95% CI 1.13 -1.57), but foot injury rates did not differ. Foot injuries occurred at half the rate of ankle injuries, but were significantly more likely to be severe (time loss over 30+ days) (IRR=3.37, 95% CI 1.91-5.949). Among basketball and volleyball athletes, player contact was the most common mechanism of injury and occurred most often while engaging in team jumping activities (rebounding, shooting, blocking, spiking). Surface contact was the most common mechanism in gymnasts. Female gymnasts had higher chronic injury rates than all other sports examined (0.485/1000 AEs, 0.304-0.735, p&lt;0.002). Overall, female basketball players were 1.98 times more likely to suffer an overuse injury than male athletes (95% CI 1.14-3.45, p=0.005). Conclusion: Athletes participating in jumping sports have a higher rate of lateral ligamentous complex ankle sprains than other NCAA sports. Deterring player contact during jumping and landing by way of coaching and/or rule changes may reduce injury rates and improve player safety. The increased prevalence of chronic injuries in female collegiate athletes competing in jumping sports necessitates further investigation in order to identify opportunities to reduce injury rates through prevention and training programs. [Table: see text]