Field Hockey Players Research Articles

Genotypic and Allelic Distribution of the CD36 rs1761667 Polymorphism in High-Level Moroccan Athletes: A Pilot Study.

Previous studies have shown that variations in the CD36 gene may affect phenotypes associated with fat metabolism as the CD36 protein facilitates the transport of fatty acids to the mitochondria for oxidation. However, no previous study has tested whether variations in the CD36 gene are associated with sports performance. We investigated the genotypic and allelic distribution of the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1761667 in the CD36 gene in elite Moroccan athletes (cyclists and hockey players) in comparison with healthy non-athletes of the same ethnic origin. Forty-three Moroccan elite male athletes (nineteen cyclists and twenty-four field hockey players) belonging to the national teams of their respective sports (athlete group) were compared to twenty-eight healthy, active, male university students (control group). Genotyping of the CD36 rs1761667 (G>A) SNP was performed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing. A chi-square (χ2) test was used to assess the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) and to compare allele and genotype frequencies in the "athlete" and "control" groups. The genotypic distribution of the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism was similar in elite athletes (AA: 23.81, AG: 59.52, and GG: 16.67%) and controls (AA: 19.23, AG: 69.23, and GG: 11.54%; χ2 = 0.67, p = 0.71). However, the genotypic distribution of the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism was different between cyclists (AA: 0.00, AG: 72.22, and GG: 27.78%) and hockey players (AA: 41.67, AG: 50.00, and GG: 8.33%; χ2 = 10.69, p = 0.004). Specifically, the frequency of the AA genotype was significantly lower in cyclists than in hockey players (p = 0.02). In terms of allele frequency, a significant difference was found between cyclists versus field hockey players (χ2 = 7.72, p = 0.005). Additionally, there was a predominance of the recessive model in cyclists over field hockey players (OR: 0.00, 95% CI: 0.00-0.35, p = 0.002). Our study shows a significant difference between cyclists and field hockey players in terms of the genotypic and allelic frequency of the SNP rs1761667 of the CD36 gene. This divergence suggests a probable association between genetic variations in the CD36 gene and the type of sport in elite Moroccan athletes.

The influence of substitution strategies on the physical match performance of elite female field hockey players

ABSTRACT The study aims were to i) compare movement demands of different substitution strategies for each position in elite female field hockey and ii) compare the effect substitutions had on match intensities post-substitution. During 19 international matches, movement data from 26 international players were collected. Substitution strategies were categorised into 5-min, 7.5-min, 10-min, at random intervals and full quarter play. Small reductions in work-rate were found from quarter 1 to 4 across positions despite running intensities not differing between quarters. Work-rate was greater for starting players during the opening minute and was also higher when compared to players coming off the bench. However, players coming off the bench had higher running intensities during this first minute with higher work-rates after minute two compared to the quarter average. Small differences in work-rate were found between substitution strategies for strikers and midfielders, with no differences in intensity for any position. In conclusion, a decrease in work-rate during the match suggests fatigue, but because intensity was maintained throughout, pacing strategies could be present. Although the substitution strategy utilised did not produce substantial results, the “first-minute-rush-effect” was confirmed as players coming off the bench were able to match and, in some cases, increase the work-rate.

Sweat Characteristics and Fluid Balance Responses During Two Heat Training Camps in Elite Female Field Hockey Players.

We examined the sweat characteristics and fluid balance of elite female field hockey players during two heat training camps. Fourteen elite female field hockey players from the Australian national squad participated in two heat training camps held ∼6months apart, following winter- (Camp 1) and summer-based training (Camp 2). Daily waking body mass (BM) and urine specific gravity (USG) were collected, along with several markers of sweat and fluid balance across two matches per camp. There was a 19% mean reduction in estimated whole-body sweat sodium concentration from Camp 1 (45.8 ± 6.5mmol/L) to Camp 2 (37.0 ± 5.0mmol/L; p < .001). Waking urine specific gravity ≥ 1.020 was observed in 31% of samples, with no significant differences in mean urine specific gravity or BM between camps (p > .05), but with substantial interindividual variation. Intramatch sweat rates were high (1.2-1.8L/hr), with greater BM losses in Camp 1 (p = .030), resulting in fewer players losing ≥2% BM in Camp 2 (0%-8%), as compared with Camp 1 (36%-43%; p = .017). Our field data suggest that elite female field hockey players experience substantial sweat losses during competition in the heat regardless of the season. In agreement with previous findings, we observed substantial interindividual variation in sweat and hydration indices, supporting the use of individualized athlete hydration strategies.

Physical fitness metrics and their relationship to locomotor activity profiles among female international field hockey players across an Olympic cycle

ObjectivesThe study explored the correlations between physical fitness metrics and match locomotor activity profiles. Furthermore exploring the transformations of both fitness tests as well as match locomotor activities over an Olympic cycle. DesignObservational descriptive study. MethodsFitness testing (n = 24) and match locomotor activity (n = 102) profiles were collected. A Pearson's product-moment correlation and 95 % confidence intervals were calculated to determine relationships between metrics for each year. A mixed-effects model was used for repeated measures to identify differences in the physical fitness tests and match locomotor activity profiles between years. ResultsThe YoYo intermittent reocvery testest level 1 changed significantly (p < 0.0001) and accounted for 29 % of the variance in average speed (p < 0.001, rrm (59) = 0.54) Upper and lower body muscular strength, also improved, evidenced by the 3RM bench press (p < 0.0001), and a 28 % (2017–2019) increase in 3RM squat (p < 0.0001). Also pull-ups increased from 4.2 ± 2.8 pull-ups (2017) to 10.0 ± 3.1 pull-ups (2020) (p < 0.0001) and. countermovement jump height increased over the study duration (p < 0.0001). Match total distances remained unchanged, while average speed increased significantly (p < 0.0001). High-speed running distance (p < 0.0003) and sprint counts (p < 0.0001), showed significant improvements over the study period. ConclusionsThe study underscores noteworthy improvements in physical attributes and performance metrics over an Olympic cycle. Contributing valuable insights for enhancing athletic performance in hockey players competing in the Olympics.

Monitoring modifiable injury risk factors over an in-season mesocycle in semi-professional female field hockey players

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine changes of modifiable injury risk factors and fatigue parameters during a mesocycle (4 months of the competitive season) in semi-professional female field hockey players (Spanish 2nd Division).MethodsFourteen female field hockey players (age: 22.6 ± 4.9 years) participated in the study over 4 months of the competitive season (September–December 2019). The players were tested each month for their: maximal isometric knee flexion, hip adduction, and abduction muscle strength; passive straight leg raise and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM); countermovement jump height; and perceptual fatigue (through a perceived well-being questionnaire).ResultsStatistical differences were reported in isometric knee flexion torque in the dominant and non-dominant limb (p = < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.629,0.786 respectively), non-dominant isometric hip abductors torque (p = 0.016, ηp2 = 0.266) and isometric hip adductors torque in dominant and non-dominant limbs (p = < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.441–546). Also, significant differences were reported in the straight leg raise test (p = < 0.001, ηp2 = 0–523, 0.556) and ankle dorsiflexion (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.376, 0.377) for the dominant and non-dominant limb respectively. Finally, the jump height measured showed significant differences (p = <.001, ηp2 = 0.490), while no differences were reported in perceived well-being parameters (p = 0.089–0.459).ConclusionIncrements in isometric muscle strength and fluctuations in ROM values and vertical jumping capacity are reported over an in-season mesocycle (i.e., 4 months of the competitive season). This information can be used to target recovery strategies to make them more efficient.

The mechanical response to hockey-specific running gait: implications for the objective monitoring of (p)rehabilitation

ABSTRACT Field hockey is characterized by a unique dribbling position which has been associated with a prevalence of low back pain and lumbar injury. To quantify the biomechanical response of the hockey-specific running gait, twelve field hockey players completed treadmill running at speeds of 6, 9 and 12 km·hr−1 with a normal running gait and whilst manipulating the hockey stick to replicate dribbling. Mechanical loading was quantified using tri-axial accelerometery at L4, and muscular activity was measured for biceps femoris (BF), gluteus medius (GM) and quadratus lumborum (QL) of each limb. Running with the stick elicited greater mechanical loading in the medio-lateral (p = 0.001) and antero-posterior (p = 0.003) planes, and increased peak (p = 0.004) and mean (p = 0.002) EMG response of QL (p = 0.004). The greater planar mechanical loading and QL activation in response to hockey-specific running technique support epidemiological observations of lower back pain prevalence. The sensitivity of uni-axial mechanical loading to the hockey-specific running posture provides an efficacious means of objectively monitoring mechanical loading in-vivo, whilst the QL activation response has implications for (p)rehabilitative interventions. Running posture and speed can be considered as discrete progressions when considering training load.

Effect of Hockey Specific Training Program on Strength, Speed and Agility in Collegiate Hockey Players

Background: Hockey is a fast-paced and high-intensity sport that requires players to possess various physicalattributes, including strength, power, agility, and endurance. It requires explosive movements, quick changes indirection, and constant upper and lower body coordinationPurpose: There are a number of training programs that are focused on improving strength, speed, and agility.There is less data available on hockey-specific training for field hockey players. Thus, the need for this study is toinvestigate the effect of a hockey-specific training program on strength, speed, and agility.Materials and Methods: Total of thirty collegiate hockey players who are continually playing hockey for morethan 3 to 4 years, the age between 18-25 were selected from SIMATS, Chennai. Strength, Speed and agility weremeasured using 1RM squat for lower limb, 1 RM bench press for upper limb, 10 meter DASH run test and Illinoisagility test respectively. The players were randomly allocated into two groups, one group received hockey specifictraining program 4 days per week for 8 weeks. Another group perform regular training program.Results: A t test analysis was used to compare the effectiveness of hockey specific training programme and regulartraining programme, which shows statistically significant improvement in hockey specific training programmegroup with a p value of&lt; 0.0001Conclusion: Here by we concluded that hockey specific training program will improve the strength, speed andagility in collegiate hockey players

Ab. No. 26 Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain in Field Hockey Players of Maharashtra – An Observational Study

Introduction: Field Hockey has a dynamic nature. A sudden change in directional movements may cause the player prone to musculoskeletal injury and pain. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to find the prevalence of pain among these players in Maharashtra state. Secondary objectives were to find the same concerning gender, type of players, and their playing positions. This would help to gain knowledge on the types of injuries caused, to take adequate and appropriate measures for the ultimate prevention, and help to prepare a guideline for injury prevention strategies. Methods: 363 field hockey players, with experience of more than a year, were recruited from various hockey clubs in various zones of Maharashtra. A Cross-sectional observational study was done. After obtaining Ethical approval, participants were recruited as per inclusion criteria. Informed consent was taken and a Nordic musculoskeletal pain questionnaire was administered to establish the pain prevalence via electronic medium. Descriptive statistical analysis was done by using MS EXCEL, to calculate the percentage/average and proportions of pain prevalence amongst – Males and Females; Elite and recreational players; and among various playing positions acquired. Result: It was found highest injury prevalence was in the lower back (34%) among field hockey players. It also showed differences in pain prevalence depending on gender (22%), type of players (42% in elite), and various playing positions (47% in goalkeepers and defenders). Conclusion: It was concluded to have maximum pain prevalence in the lower back region. Owing to the type of players and playing positions, the prevalence also varied. Physiotherapists can help to educate hockey players regarding the targeted prevalent joint areas and guide them to attain appropriate preventive strategies while training these players.

An investigation into evaluating motor fitness variables as indicators of performance in field hockey players

An investigation into evaluating motor fitness variables as indicators of performance in field hockey players

Biomechanical comparison of hip and ankle kinematics among national and university-level field hockey players: An observational study

Abstract Background: The penalty corner stands out as a crucial scoring method in field hockey, with the Drag flick (DF) being the most frequently employed shot during this situation. The DF is more effective than the hit or push techniques. Purpose: This study aimed to explore variations in hip and ankle kinematics during different stages of the DF among field hockey players at national and university levels. Materials and Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional design involving participation from professional male drag flickers, as well as national and university-level (UL) players, with reported mean ± SD values for height (172 ± 1.41 cm), weight (72.5 ± 2.12 kg), and BMI (24.4 ± 0.35 kg/m2). Following a specific warm-up, each player underwent the random recording of 10 trials on the hockey ground. XSENS inertial measuring unit was employed to acquire and analyze kinematics data. Thirty frames were extracted, spanning the DF technique’s initial phase to the final phase for subsequent analysis. Results: The findings revealed distinct variations in joint angle (XZY) range of motion (ROM) during different phases of the DF among national and UL players. Notably, significant (P &lt; 0.05) and diverse changes were identified in various parameters of lower limb kinematics when comparing DF shots. Conclusion: The study’s conclusion emphasizes that comprehending the ROM variations in hockey players is crucial for sports scientists and coaches. NL and UL players showed different movement patterns in the same DF technique but at different extents. This knowledge enables them to understand the biomechanical responses necessary to attain optimal movement, mainly when aiming for the goal. It allows for a focused analysis of individual player movement patterns.

Personality traits of Arjuna awardee Lalit Upadhyay Olympic medalist: Field hockey player

Personality traits of Arjuna awardee Lalit Upadhyay Olympic medalist: Field hockey player

Changes in the force-time curve during a repeat power ability assessment using loaded countermovement jumps.

Repeat power ability (RPA) assessments traditionally use discrete variables, such as peak power output, to quantify the change in performance across a series of jumps. Rather than using a discrete variable, the analysis of the entire force-time curve may provide additional insight into RPA performance. The aims of this study were to (1) analyse changes in the force-time curve recorded during an RPA assessment using statistical parametric mapping (SPM) and (2) compare the differences in the force-time curve between participants with low and high RPA scores, as quantified by traditional analysis. Eleven well-trained field hockey players performed an RPA assessment consisting of 20 loaded countermovement jumps with a 30% one repetition maximum half squat load (LCMJ20). Mean force-time series data was normalized to 100% of the movement duration and analysed using SPM. Peak power output for each jump was also derived from the force-time data and a percent decrement score calculated for jumps 2 to 19 (RPA%dec). An SPM one-way ANOVA with significance accepted at α=0.05, was used to identify the change in the force-time curve over three distinct series of jumps across the LCMJ20 (series 1 = jumps 2-5, series 2 = jumps 9-12 and series 3 = jumps 16-19). A secondary analysis, using an independent T-test with significance accepted at p<0.001, was also used to identify differences in the force-time curve between participants with low and high RPA%dec. Propulsive forces were significantly lower (p<0.001) between 74-98% of the movement compared to 0-73% for changes recorded during the LCMJ20. Post hoc analysis identified the greatest differences to occur between jump series 1 and jump series 2 (p<0.001) at 70-98% of the movement and between jump series 1 and jump series 3 (p<0.001) at 86-99% of the movement. No significant differences were found between jump series 2 and jump series 3. Significant differences (p<0.001) in both the braking phase at 44-48% of the jump and the propulsive phase at 74-94% of the jump were identified when participants were classified based on low or high RPA%dec scores (with low scores representing an enhanced ability to maintain peak power output than high scores). A reduction in force during the late propulsive phase is evident as the LCMJ20 progresses. SPM analysis provides refined insight into where changes in the force-time curve occur during performance of the LCMJ20. Participants with the lower RPA%dec scores displayed both larger braking and propulsive forces across the LCMJ20 assessment.

Does "Live High-Train Low and High" Hypoxic Training Alter Stride Mechanical Pattern During Repeated Sprints in Elite Team-Sport Players?

We examined changes in stride temporal parameters and spring-mass model characteristics during repeated sprints following a 3-week period of "live high-train low and high" (LHTLH)altitude training in team-sport players. While residing under normobaric hypoxia (≥14h/d; inspired oxygen fraction [FiO2] 14.5%-14.2%) for 14days, elite field hockey players performed, in addition to their regular field hockey practice in normoxia, 6 sessions (4 × 5 × 5-s maximal sprints; 25-s passive recovery; 5-min rest) under either normobaric hypoxia (LHTLH; FiO2 ∼14.5%, n = 11) or normoxia (live high-train low; FiO2 20.9%, n = 12). A control group (live low-train low; FiO2 ∼20.9%, n = 9) residing in normoxia without additional repeated-sprint training was included. Before (Pre)and a few days (Post-1) and 3weeks (Post-2) after the intervention, stride mechanics were assessed during an overground repeated-sprint test (8 × 20m, 20-s recovery). Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (time [Pre, Post-1, and Post-2] × condition [LHTLH, live high-train low, and live low-train low]) were conducted. Peak sprinting speed increased in LHTLH from Pre to Post-1 (+2.2% [2.0%]; P = .002) and Post-2 (+2.0% [2.4%]; P = .025), with no significant changes in live high-train low and live low-train low. There was no main effect of time (all P ≥ .062), condition (all P ≥ .771), or a significant time × condition interaction (all P ≥ .230) for any stride temporal variable (contact time, flight time, stride frequency, and stride length) or spring-mass model characteristics (vertical and leg stiffness). Peak sprinting speed improved in elite field hockey players following LHTLH altitude training, while stride mechanical adjustments to repeated overground sprints remained unchanged for at least 3weeks postintervention.

Achievements and contributions of Arjuna awardee Lalit Upadhyay eminent field hockey player: A case study

Achievements and contributions of Arjuna awardee Lalit Upadhyay eminent field hockey player: A case study

Match demands of female team sports: a scoping review.

This scoping review aimed to characterize and quantify the external load demands of professional female team sports, in terms of total distance [TD], moderate-speed [MSR] and high-speed running [HSR], sprint, accelerations [ACC], and decelerations [DEC]. A search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until 15/04/2023. The Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS) was used. Eighty-six articles were eligible for inclusion in this review, with 40 in soccer, 23 in rugby (6 rugby union, 3 rugby league, and 14 rugby sevens), 8 in field hockey, 8 in basketball, 6 in handball, and 1 in futsal. Soccer is the most investigated sport, and players perform ~9500 m TD, of which ~580 m is performed in HSR, and with a great number of ACC, DEC, and sprints. Rugby league and union players cover a greater distance (~5450 m) when compared to rugby sevens (~1550 m); however, rugby sevens is more demanding in terms of high-intensity actions. Field hockey players perform ~5400 m TD with high-intensity and sprint actions. Women's indoor sports are less studied, and basketball players cover ~5300 m TD, of which 7% is performed in MSR. Handball players perform ~3500 m TD and cover ~423 m in MSR and ~141 m in HSR, and futsal players perform ~5 m × min-1 in HSR and they do a great number of high-intensity activities (HSR, ACC, and DEC). Considering the high physical demands experienced by female athletes, professionals could use the present results for training and return to competition schedules.

Youth Female Field Hockey Players Physical Condition

Introduction: lower limb injuries and low back pain are common injuries in field hockey that have different risk factors. The aim of this study was to characterize youth field hockey players’ physical condition to determine their possible injury risk factors. Methods: youth field hockey players of the Club Deportivo Universidad Católica of Chile were assessed during April and May of the 2022 season. The test used were: Ely’s, Thomas, Ober and AKE for flexibility, Biering Sorensen, Plank Test, Sport Specific Endurance Plank Test, Single Leg Bridge Test, Lunge Test, Hop Test (single, triple and croo-over) and Y Balance Test. Statistical analyses were performed using R Statistical Software (2023.09.0+463; R Core Team 2023). Results: 87 youth field hockey players from the under 14, 16 and 19 were assess (age 15.1 ± 1.5). Poor core and back extensor endurance was found, along with poor hamstring strength and unipodal balance. Significant difference was found between categories in the plank test and sport specific endurance plank test (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: several impairments were found in chilean youth field hockey players that could pose a risk of injury, however, further research is needed in order to determine if these impairments really are risk factors in this sport and population.

A Comparative Study on the Dynamic Balance and Whole Body Muscle Function of Field Hockey Players and Soccer Players

A Comparative Study on the Dynamic Balance and Whole Body Muscle Function of Field Hockey Players and Soccer Players

A Pilot Study on the Physical Parameters and Skill Performance Analysis among Pakistani Elite Male Field Hockey Players

A Pilot Study on the Physical Parameters and Skill Performance Analysis among Pakistani Elite Male Field Hockey Players

Positional and between quarter differences in physical demands of elite female field hockey players during international matches.

The main aims of this study were to examine whether there are positional- and between-quarter differences in the physical load of elite female field hockey players during international matches. Twenty-three international female field hockey players were equipped with Global Positioning Systems devices, while competing over nine international matches. Players covered a mean relative distance, relative player load, and distance covered in the form of low-, moderate-, and high intensity activities of 107.5 m/min, 10.3 AU/min, 41.6%, 47.9%, and 9.9%, respectively. Defenders achieved the lowest relative Player load (ES: 0.8-1.1) and greatest distance covered in the form of low intensity activities compared to Midfielders and Forwards (ES: 0.8-0.9). Forwards and Midfielders covered significantly greater distance in the form of high intensity activity compared to Defenders (ES: 1.6-2.2). Significant reductions in relative distance, relative Player load, and moderate intensity activity are observed for all positions between Quarters 1-4 despite the availability of unlimited substitutions. However, players were able to maintain their high intensity activity throughout the match with no significant differences between Quarters 1-4. The majority of variables were higher (ES > 0.2) during Quarter 2 compared to Quarter 3, especially for Midfielders and Defenders. Current findings provide further evidence on the positional- and between-quarter external match load of international female field hockey players that coaches should consider when designing training programs and drills to better prepare players for match demands. The results also provide some insight into the fatigue experienced by players and the possible pacing strategies they employ during matches. These findings support the need for re-warm-ups and may further influence how coaches time their substitutions to enhance running performance in future.

The effect of 8-week warm-ups, static and dynamic stretching of hip flexors on flexibility, agility, and dynamic balance in junior field hockey players: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundHockey players mostly lack flexibility in the hips due to prolonged flexion during competition and overuse of hip extensors and external rotators. The lack of flexibility or dysfunction in the hips can negatively impact the dynamic balance and biomechanics of the lower extremities.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effect of adding dynamic stretching to the standard warm-ups and static stretching of hip flexors in junior field hockey players’ balance, flexibility, and agility.MethodsIn this randomized controlled trial, 30 junior field hockey players were randomly assigned into experimental (n = 15) and control groups (n = 15). The control group performed warm-ups, static stretching, and placebo-like stretching exercises. The experimental group performed the same warm-ups, static stretching exercises plus dynamic stretching to hip flexors. The exercise program was performed by alternating between the right and left lower limbs in both groups. The modified Thomas test, Illinois Agility Test, and modified star excursion balance test were used to measure hip muscle flexibility, agility, and dynamic balance after 8 weeks of interventions in both groups.ResultsIn comparison with the post-test score of both the groups, the experimental group shows a highly statistically significant value in all three measurements of the modified Thomas test (right limb: Cohen’s d = 2.1, P < 0.001, left limb: Cohen’s d = 1.5, P < 0.001) Illinois Agility Test (Cohen’s d = 2.3, P < 0.001) modified star excursion balance test (composite score: right limb Cohen’s d = 1.3, P < 0.001, left limb Cohen’s d = 1.53, P < 0.001) respectively.ConclusionThe findings of this study revealed that adding dynamic stretching of hip flexors in routine warm-ups and static stretching has significantly increased hip extension range of motion, agility, and dynamic balance in both the right and left limbs among junior field hockey players.