Cardiorespiratory fitness is a crucial component for health. However, measuring cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) in practice and in large-scale studies remains challenging. The Two-Minute Step Test (2MST) is a submaximal cardiorespiratory fitness test that is brief, relatively easy to perform, and does not require any expensive materials. However, the clinimetric properties of the 2MST for older adults with ID are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the feasibility, reliability and convergent validity of the 2MST in older adults with ID. This was a cross-sectional study within the 'Healthy Ageing and Intellectual Disabilities' (HA-ID) cohort study. Participants (n = 180, 70.6 [66-75] years) that participated in the physical fitness assessment were included in this study. Feasibility was defined as a successful completion according to protocol. Test-retest reliability was assessed over two measurements, on the same day, with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Convergent validity was assessed relative to other fitness components (static balance, muscular endurance, comfortable and fast gait speed), with Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficients. The 2MST showed moderate feasibility for the first (49.4%) and second (48.3%) measurement. Feasibility was good in participants with borderline, mild and moderate ID (57.1%-80%), but low in participants with severe (15.2%) and profound ID (7.7%). Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.88). The 2MST had a moderate correlation with static balance (r = 0.46) and comfortable (r = 0.42) and fast (r = 0.51) gait speed, and a good correlation with muscular endurance (r = 0.63). Based on predefined criteria, all correlations were at least moderate (r > 0.30), supporting good convergent validity (categorised as good if three or more out of four correlations were at least moderate). The 2MST is a feasible, reliable and valid test to use in older adults with ID. Feasibility was especially good in older adults with borderline to moderate ID; however, it was low in adults with more severe ID. The excellent test-retest reliability and good indications for convergent validity show this test is a suitable field test for cardiorespiratory fitness to use in older adults with ID.

This retrospective, non-interventional study investigated the impact of a forced training interruption, such as the COVID-19 nationwide lockdown, on the physical efficiency, performance, and technical-agility skills of prepubertal soccer players by comparing pre- and post-interruption cohorts within the same youth academy and at the same chronological age. Anonymised data collected across multiple competitive seasons included anthropometric measures and motor performance tests: Standing Long Jump, Shuttle Run, Shuttle Dribble, and Mini Cooper. Between-group differences were analysed using Mann–Whitney U tests, with p < 0.05 as the level of significance. The post-training interruption cohort showed significantly higher values in the Standing Long Jump (+11.2%, p < 0.001) and the Shuttle Run (+8.0%, p = 0.011), indicating improved explosive power and agility-speed. Conversely, performance on the Shuttle Dribble test declined by 13.4% (p < 0.001), while Mini Cooper results and BMI did not differ significantly. These findings suggest that modifications to compulsory training and children’s natural adaptability may have enhanced physical abilities, whereas the lack of contextual and interactive practice negatively affected technical-agility skills. Coaches should incorporate alternative workouts to maintain motor performance and emphasise ball-related and decision-making drills within ecological and dynamic environments to maximise developmental outcomes. This study offers new insights into the adaptive responses of young athletes and provides practical lessons for future youth soccer development, particularly during periods of forced training interruption.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer mortality among Latinos who remain underrepresented in screening and are more often diagnosed at later stages, leading to poorer outcomes. Barriers include low health literacy, lack of insurance, limited access to screening, and cultural mistrust of healthcare and research. To implement the Colorectal Health Research Champion (CHRC) Model to address CRC screening disparities among immigrant Latinos, primarily from Central and South America, residing in Richmond, VA's urban Latino community. The CHRC model integrates evidence-based strategies from Screen to Save (S2S), the National Outreach Network Community Health Educator (NON-CHE) program, and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center's Community Champion program. Five trained champions conducted peer-to-peer chats on CRC symptoms, risk factors, screening guidelines, healthy behaviors, and clinical trials. Pre and post-surveys were collected from 52 Latino participants. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test assessed changes in knowledge and screening intent. Baseline CRC awareness and screening rates were low. Post-intervention, participants showed notable improvements in recognizing CRC risk factors such as physical inactivity, family history, and the importance of early detection. Participants also demonstrated a better understanding of screening options like the FIT test and expressed willingness to adopt healthier behaviors and pursue screening. However, mistrust and limited understanding of research remained challenges. The CHRC model successfully enhanced CRC knowledge, screening, and early detection awareness among Latinos, while encouraging consideration of clinical trial participation. Success was driven by trusted community champions leveraging social networks, culturally tailored education, addressing research hesitancy, and using flexible outreach strategies.

BackgroundAdolescence is a critical developmental period marked by significant physical and psychosocial changes that shape adult behavior and personality. In Saudi Arabia, where female sports participation is newly encouraged, this study therefore aimed to explore how athletic participation influences body image perception, including potential discrepancies between self-perception and fitness outcomes, in a context where female participation in structured physical activity has historically been limited but is now being promoted under Vision 2030.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh province from October 2024 to February 2025, involving 439 female students aged 12–18. Participants were recruited from schools in Al Majma’ah city and were categorized as athletes (school sports participants, n = 252) or non-athletes (n = 241). Outcomes were assessed using the Physical Self-Inventory-Short (PSI-S) for self-perception, the Stunkard Scale for body image, and physical performance tests (Shuttle Run, V Sit-and-Reach, and Wall Sit Test).ResultsOur findings revealed that athletes reported significantly higher self-perception on the PSI-S compared to non-athletes (53.17% vs. 37.34% high self-perception; p = 0.002). After body mass index (BMI) adjustment, athletes scored higher on the Stunkard Scale (5.83 vs. 4.31; p < 0.001). Athletes demonstrated a tendency to perceive their bodies as moderately larger than their actual BMI-adjusted size, a disparity not observed in non-athletes. This self-perception coexisted with superior physical performance, suggesting that athletic training may decouple size perception from functional capability. Athletes outperformed non-athletes in cardiorespiratory fitness (Shuttle Run: 9.96 vs. 8.01; p < 0.001), flexibility (V Sit-and-Reach: 14.50 vs. 13.02; p = 0.012), and muscular endurance (Wall Sit Test: 63.17 vs. 58.30; p = 0.024). No significant differences in self-perception were observed across BMI categories, suggesting athletic participation’s benefits transcend weight status.ConclusionThe findings align with global research linking physical activity to enhanced body satisfaction and self-worth. However, athletes’ self-perception of larger body figures may reflect societal pressures toward thinness, highlighting the complex interplay of cultural ideals and body image. The study underscores the role of sports in promoting physical fitness and psychological well-being among Saudi adolescent females, supporting national efforts to encourage female athletic participation.

ABSTRACT Fitness testing has been identified as a contentious feature of Health and Physical Education (HPE) for over three decades, but little research has explored how this contention is navigated and responded to by teachers and students in schools. This paper draws on the concepts of expansive learning [Engeström, Y., & Sannino, A. (2010). Studies of expansive learning: Foundations, findings and future challenges. Educational Research Review, 5(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2009.12.002] and transformative agency [Haapasaari, A., Engeström, Y., & Kerosuo, H. (2016). The emergence of learner’s transformative agency in a change laboratory intervention. Journal of Education and Work, 29(2), 232–262. https://doi.org/10.1080/13639080.2014.900168] to examine how a process of transforming fitness testing pedagogies (FTPs) impacted students (n = 21) in one Australian Secondary school. Data from the final stage of a three-stage research project (2021–2023) are shared and analysed. The data consisted of interview transcripts, annotated self-portraits (drawings) produced by the students during the focus groups and field notes. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to guide the analysis. Findings suggest that the concepts of expansive learning and transformative agency can guide pedagogical transformation and, in turn, enhance specific forms of student agency in HPE. Whilst this research demonstrated some utility of transformative agency, it is important to acknowledge that current conceptualisations do not necessarily allow for a grappling of system-level complexities.

BackgroundSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a global impact, underscoring the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). Use of N95s reduces the risk of airborne infection; however, in the absence of equitable designs, health care workers (HCWs) who do not fit the average White male head and face are at an increased risk of airborne infectious diseases.ObjectivesPrimary: Feasibility of a mixed-method study, with a sample size of 100, 50% of participants self-identifying as non-White and having at least one characteristic of interest. Secondary: (1) Generate quantitative evidence on N95 fit using a PortaCount fit test, (2) describe participant-reported feelings on fit and breathability, and (3) evaluate the impacts of the pandemic on a HCW’s physical and mental well-being.MethodsThis was a mixed-method prospective pilot and feasibility study. Quantitative fit was assessed using a TSI PortaCount test and measurements of bizygomatic breadth and Menton-Sellion length. A survey was administered to collect sociodemographic information, HCWs’ assessment of N95 fit, comfort, and the impact of PPE-related challenges on well-being.ResultsThis study was limited by a small sample size, as COVID-19 pandemic restrictions prevented adequate recruitment to detect differences between groups. We describe key findings that should inform analyses of the impact of gender and ethnicity on N95 respirator fit. Following a study amendment to increase eligible sites, 37 of the 41 (90.2%) approached HCWs consented to participate. Compared to other HCWs, non-White females had the lowest mean fit factor. Differences in Menton-Sellion length and bizygomatic breadth were observed between males, females, and White and non-White HCWs. Most HCWs reported physical discomfort and negative impacts on their psychological well-being.ConclusionsWe identified gender and ethnicity as key factors in the fit of N95s. Differences in gender, ethnicity, and anthropometric measures must be considered in respirator designs.

Filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) manufactured in South Africa and elsewhere for use by South African workers are commonly tested against non-South African respirator fit test panels (RFTPs) such as those for the United States and the Chinese population, the 2009 Chinese RFTP. These RFTPs are based on facial measurements of their respective populations. Our study evaluated the applicability of these panels to Black South Africans and developed a representative panel for Black South African respirator users. Facial dimensions were collected from 693 Black South African respirator users using traditional anthropometric tools. Face width and Face length were overlaid on the NIOSH and Chinese bivariate RFTPs to determine their applicability by checking distribution within the panels and individual cells. We then developed a dedicated Black South African bivariate panel. This included adjustments of panel boundaries to contain 95% of the study population. Data were analysed using STATA version 17 (and graphed using Microsoft Excel). Panels developed for the United States and Chinese populations did not adequately represent Black South Africans. Most (96.5%) of Black South Africans fell within the NIOSH panel, however, there was no uniform distribution. The Chinese panel only contained 90.8% within the cell boundaries, which was less than the required 95% population within the panel boundaries. Thus, a new bivariate panel representative of Black South Africans was developed. The new panel boundary limits for the Black South African panel are 95 to 135 mm for face length and 123 and 154 mm for face width, which differ from those of the NIOSH and Chinese panels. The final Black South African bivariate panel contains more than 97% of the study population with a more even distribution of subjects within the cell and panel boundaries. The findings showed that the NIOSH and Chinese bivariate panels do not adequately represent the Black South African population. Respirators designed and tested using these panels or similar ones may negatively affect the desired fit of a Black South African population. The newly developed bivariate panel for Black South Africans should be validated in future studies. It is uncertain to what extent the findings are generalizable to the South and Southern African population external to the study area of Gauteng.

Annual Fitness Testing of Exercise Science Students: A Descriptive Study

Evaluating the efficacy of action-based instructions on the suitability of medical protective masks in healthcare settings.

Digit Ratio (2D:4D) and lactate response during a football-specific intermittent field fitness test in women.

A fast-start strategy, characterized by higher-intensity efforts during the initial work intervals, in high-intensity interval training (HIIT-FS) have been shown to optimize time spent at high oxygen uptake levels in endurance sports, but their effects in team sport athletes remain unexplored. This study aimed to compare the physiological (gas exchange, heart rate), perceptual responses (Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE), and external load responses (Global Positioning System (GPS) derived distance) between a high-intensity interval training protocol using a fast-start strategy high-intensity interval training (HIIT-FS) and a constant-intensity high-intensity interval training (HIIT-C) protocol in academy rugby union players. Eight male rugby players (19.9 ± 2.2 years) from two professional French teams performed three sessions: (1) a 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15 IFT) to determine velocity at intermittent fitness test (VIFT) and fitness assessment (V̇O2peak), (2) a HIIT-C session: 2 x 8 intervals of 30 s at 88% VIFT with 15 s rest between intervals and 3 minutes passive rest between sets, and (3) a HIIT-FS session: 2 x 8 intervals consisting of 4 x 30 s at 98% VIFT followed by 4 x 30 s at 78% VIFT, each separated by 15 s rest and 3 minutes rest between sets. Physiological measures included time spent at or above 90% of peak oxygen uptake (T ≥ 90% V̇O2peak) and peak heart rate (T ≥ 90% HRpeak), peak heart rate (HRpeak), mean oxygen uptake (V̇O2mean), mean percentage of peak oxygen uptake (mean %V̇O2peak) and peak heart rate (HRpeak), mean minute ventilation (V̇Emean), and mean respiratory frequency (f Rmean). External load variables were total distance, distance ≥ 7 km·h-1, distance ≥ 16 km·h-1, and mechanical work distance. Perceptual response was assessed using RPE. HIIT-FS significantly increased T ≥ 90% V̇O2peak (318.8 ± 138.9 s versus 230.6 ± 115.6 s; d=0.88; p < 0.05) and mean % V̇O2peak (86.1 ± 3% versus 82.1 ± 3.2%; d = 1.54; p < 0.05) compared to HIIT-C, primarily during the first four intervals of each set, where higher intensities (98% VIFT) were prescribed. No significant differences were observed in external load metrics between protocols. Regarding heart rate responses, only T ≥ 90% HRpeak during intervals 1-4 of set 2 was significantly greater in the HIIT-FS protocol (129.8 ± 24.0 s vs. 109.0 ± 34.0 s; d = 0.90; p < 0.05). Perceptual response (RPE) was also significantly higher following HIIT-FS (9.0 ± 0.5 vs. 7.8 ± 0.7; d = 1.80; p < 0.05). HIIT-FS increases time spent at high V̇O2 levels in rugby players without increasing external load, making it a promising training strategy to improve aerobic capacity. However, due to its higher perceived exertion, HIIT-FS may be more appropriate when only a limited number of sets can be performed (e.g., two), and should be balanced with classic HIIT protocols when session volume allows more time. Future research should investigate its long-term adaptations and applicability in different team-sport populations.

Caffeine is a well-known ergogenic aid that can enhance physical and cognitive performance. However, it often induces side effects, such as anxiety and overstimulation, which can be problematic in high-pressure sports like wrestling. L-theanine, a non-stimulant amino acid found in tea, may help mitigate these effects by promoting a calm yet focused mental state. This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of caffeine, L-theanine, and their combination on physical performance, cognitive function, and anxiety in elite male wrestlers. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design, 12 elite male wrestlers (21.8 ± 2.1 years) completed four test sessions under randomized conditions: placebo (PLA), caffeine (CAF; 3 mg/kg), L-theanine (THE; 3 mg/kg), and caffeine + L-theanine (CAF+THE; 3 mg/kg each). After 60 minutes, athletes performed the wall-squat test, vertical jump height (VJH), medicine ball throw (MBT), handgrip strength, and the Specific Wrestling Fitness Test (SWFT). Cognitive function was assessed pre- and post-SWFT using a computerized Stroop test. Anxiety was assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and side effects were recorded. CAF+THE outperformed PLA in wall-squat time (p = 0.001), MBT (p = 0.005), VJH (p = 0.011), and grip strength (p = 0.004). SWFT throw count was highest in CAF+THE versus all other conditions (p < 0.001). Post-SWFT Stroop reaction time was faster in CAF+THE than PLA (p = 0.004) and THE (p = 0.036), and accuracy was also higher (p = 0.009 vs PLA). CAF alone increased state anxiety compared to PLA (p = 0.021), while CAF+THE reduced anxiety to below placebo levels (8% incidence vs 33%). Trait anxiety was lower in CAF+THE compared to CAF (p = 0.018). The prevalence of caffeine-induced tachycardia (92%) was notably reduced under CAF+THE (17%). CAF+THE (3 mg/kg each) enhances elite wrestlers' strength, endurance, cognitive speed, and accuracy while reducing anxiety and physiological side effects commonly associated with caffeine alone. This combination represents a safe, practical supplement strategy for combat sports athletes who must maintain explosive performance and mental control under stress. Coaches are encouraged to trial CAF+THE protocols during training to personalize timing and dosage.

To explore the relationship between Physical Fitness Index and sleep quality in adolescents and to provide a theoretical basis for improving adolescent sleep quality. A total of 5018 adolescents aged 13-18years were selected by whole group stratified random sampling method from September to December 2024 in Changzhi, Taizhou, Jishou, Nanchang, Suzhou, Xianyang, and Yulin, China, for the physical fitness test and sleep quality survey. The correlation coefficients between Physical Fitness Index and sleep quality were analyzed using Pearson's correlation, and the effects of Physical Fitness Index on sleep quality were analyzed using linear regression. The total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score was 5.07 ± 3.03 for male adolescents and 5.79 ± 2.95 for female adolescents, with male adolescents significantly better than females (t = -8.61, p < 0.01). The mean value of Physical Fitness Index was -0.70 ± 3.89 for adolescents with poor sleep quality and 0.02 ± 3.70 for adolescents with good sleep quality in the junior high school level, which was statistically different between the two groups (t = -4.058, p < 0.01). Physical Fitness Index was negatively correlated with sleep quality index (r = -0.062, p < 0.01) and Physical Fitness Index significantly predicted sleep quality (β = -0.04, p < 0.01). There was a significant negative correlation between the Physical Fitness Index and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in Chinese adolescents.

Background: Conventional reverse-phase chromatography has difficulty effectively separating highly polar carbapenem antibiotics. Current HILIC methods offer improved retention, but are often limited by issues of reproducibility and selectivity. A significant gap remains in the optimal use of HILIC capillary columns in pharmaceutical analysis. Aim: This research aimed to develop and validate an HILIC) method by means of an Inertsil HILIC Capillary EX-Nano column for the determination and separation of four carbapenems (imipenem, doripenem, ertapenem, and meropenem) in pharmaceutical compounds. Methods: Chromatographic conditions were modified using an ammonium acetate/acetic acid buffer system and ACN, with changes in pH (3.0-5.5), buffer concentration (10-80 mM), and organic ratio (50-95%). The technique was authenticated in accordance with the ICH Q2(R1) guiding principle. Precision, accuracy, linearity, detection limits, reliability, specificity, and instrument suitability were evaluated. Forced lysis studies and filler interference tests were performed to determine specificity. Results: The method demonstrated excellent linearity (R² &gt; 0.999) across specific ranges for each compound. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values were experimentally verified using both a calibration curve and the signal-to-noise ratio. Recovery ranged from 98.3% to 101.8%, and inter-day and intra-day precision presented a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 2.0%. Chromatographic separations were achieved with ? 2.0, tail factors ? 1.8, and theoretical plates &gt; 2000 for all peaks. System fit tests confirmed the reliability of the method at all stages. Discussion: The Inertsil HILIC Capillary EX-Nano column demonstrated superior selectivity and reproducibility for separating carbapenems compared to previously reported HILIC methods. Mechanistic evaluation indicated strong hydrophilic interaction enhanced by zwitterionic retention mechanisms. Specificity was established through stress testing and matrix interference evaluation. The method remained robust under variations in mobile phase composition and flow rate. Conclusions: The published HILIC method provides a reliable, accurate, and selective approach. It offers a superior alternative to conventional HILIC and RPLC techniques, meeting certification and quality control requirements.

This non-experimental study examined the relationships among socioeconomic status (SES), body mass index (BMI), and physical fitness in senior secondary school students in Chandigarh. The sample consisted of 50 students (25 males and 25 females) selected from five government model senior secondary schools. Data were collected using the AAHPER Physical Fitness Test (1984), the Socio-Economic Status Scale (Aggarwal et al., 2005), and BMI measurements. Product-moment correlation analysis was employed to determine the associations among variables. Results indicated strong correlations between lower body strength and abdominal strength, and significant interrelations among endurance, speed, and agility. Upper body strength showed limited associations, while SES was positively correlated with agility and negatively with abdominal strength. BMI demonstrated a weak negative correlation with upper body strength. These findings underscore the influence of socioeconomic factors on adolescents’ physical fitness and health. The study contributes to evidence-based strategies aimed at improving physical fitness, reducing obesity, and promoting health equity among school-aged populations.

Background/Objectives: Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, particularly in older adults, pharmacological therapy is effective, but side effects and limited adherence highlight the need for non-pharmacological alternatives. This study investigated the effects of a structured Bodypump (BoP) programme, a choreographed group-based resistance training intervention, on blood pressure (BP) and functional fitness in sedentary older adults with hypertension. Methods: Thirty-two participants (65.4 ± 7.7 years) diagnosed with hypertension were randomly allocated to a BoP group (n = 16) or a control group (CG) (n = 16). The intervention lasted 8-week and consisted of 3 supervised sessions per week. Resting systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were measured using a validated automated device (Omron M3 Intellisense, HEM-7051-E), functional capacity was assessed with the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery. Results: After the intervention, BoP exhibited significant reductions in SBP (−24.4 ± 4.7 mmHg; p &lt; 0.001) and DBP (−6.4 ± 2.7 mmHg; p = 0.025) compared to CG. BoP improved functional fitness, lower- and upper-body strength, aerobic endurance and agility (p &lt; 0.05), with no changes in the CG. Conclusions: 8-week of BoP programme reduced BP and enhanced physical function in sedentary hypertensive older adults. Given its accessible, motivating and socially engaging format, BoP represents a promising non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management and functional fitness of healthy ageing.

Introduction. Regular assessment of anthropometric variables and motor fitness of young athletes is an integral part of the training process. However, the physiological effects of seasonal sport camps on youth athletes have not been investigated thoroughly. Objective. The aim of the current study is to assess the changes in strength and speed performance in youth swimmers resulting from a short-term preseason camp. Methods. Eleven swimmers aged 13-14 years participated in an 8-day camp. The camp programme included nine training sessions in the swimming pool, five general fitness training sessions in the athletics stadium, and two strength circuit training sessions. Participants were interviewed to determine the amount of physical activity undertaken in summer vacation. Fitness tests were conducted on the 1st day and were repeated on the 8th day of camp. Participants performed the following motor tests: a 50-m dash, bent-arm hang, a hand grip test, and a 100-m front crawl trial. Results. Participants improved their swimming speed (p&lt;0.001) but worsened their grip strength (p=0.04). No significant changes were noted in the results of the 50-m dash test (p=0.90) and the bent-arm hang test (p=0.30). Anthropometric variables were not correlated substantially with any result of motor performance. Participation in physical activity during summer break was negatively correlated with swimming performance (r=-0.66; p&lt;0.05) and positively correlated with grip strength (r=0.70; p&lt;0.05). Conclusions. Improvement in swimming speed was the most important outcome of the preseason camp for youth athletes. Endurance-oriented training loads may have caused the lack in improvement of muscular strength. The amount of physical activity undertaken during summer vacation had an impact on motor performance in youth swimmers.

Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) strategies have been investigated to acutely improve muscle power in combat sports. These strategies involve a conditioning activity followed by a power-related or sport-specific task. This narrative review synthesized studies on PAPE in unarmed combat sports, emphasizing performance outcomes relevant to striking and grappling disciplines, considering sport-specific tasks. In striking sports, effectiveness depends on the conditioning activity, recovery interval, and task specificity. In boxing, velocity-loss resistance protocols may enhance punching force and speed. For kicking actions, squats, plyometrics, and resisted kicking have produced acute benefits, especially with recovery intervals of 3–10 minutes. Research in taekwondo is extensive, indicating that both plyometric drills and repeated sport-specific techniques can acutely enhance repeated-effort and agility performance, with shorter intervals favoring plyometrics and longer intervals supporting high-intensity techniques. In grappling sports, research has primarily examined judo. Conditioning activities such as broad jumps, resistance band pulls, and contrast exercises consistently improved performance in the Special Judo Fitness Test, particularly in the first set, even with minimal recovery intervals. Overall, evidence suggests that coaches should prioritize conditioning activities that replicate the biomechanical and metabolic demands of the target task and carefully manipulate recovery intervals to optimize potentiation while minimizing fatigue.

Introduction In badminton, anthropometric characteristics and physical capacities are essential to meet playing demands across ages and sexes. The objective of this study was to investigate age- and sex-related differences in anthropometric characteristics and physical capacities among highly trained junior badminton players, focusing on differences between (i) under (U) 13, U15, and U17 age groups, and (ii) sexes within each age group. Materials and methods Sixty-two Indonesian highly trained junior badminton players were tested over two sessions for body height, weight, fat mass, and body mass index (BMI), as well as balance, reaction time, hand grip strength, counter movement jump (CMJ) height, linear and non-linear sprint times, and anaerobic sprint and multistage fitness test performances. Traditional (one-way ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis tests) and alternative statistical approaches (magnitude-based inferences) as well as effect size (ES) calculations were applied for statistical analysis. Results Regarding age-related differences, in males, U17 players had a statistically significant and most likely higher BMI ( p = 0.001; ES = very large), as well as statistically significant and most likely superior CMJ height, linear sprint performance, fatigue index, and relative peak power than the U13 players ( p ≤ 0.003; ES = large to very large). In females, U17 players had a statistically significant and most likely higher BMI and body fat mass ( p ≤ 0.002; ES = large to very large), as well as statistically significant and very likely inferior non-linear sprint performance and relative peak power than the U13 players ( p ≤ 0.005; ES = large). For sex-related differences, in U17 and U15 players, males had a statistically significant and most likely lower body fat mass ( p = 0.001; ES = very large), as well as statistically significant and most likely superior linear sprint performance and relative peak power than females ( p = 0.001; ES = large to extremely large). Conclusion This study shows that anthropometric characteristics and anaerobic capacities differ by age and sex, whereas aerobic capacity is similar among Indonesian highly trained junior badminton players. These findings can support training, testing, and talent identification to help develop highly trained juniors into world-class badminton players.

PurposeThis study aimed to analyze differences in anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness performance based on chronological age, maturation status, and competition level among youth breaking athletes.MethodsMorphological characteristics and selected physical fitness performances were assessed in 23 male youth breaking athletes (mean age: 14.47 ± 1.99 years). Biological maturity was estimated from anthropometric measures and expressed as age at peak height velocity (APHV) and maturity offset. All athletes were classified into two age groups (U14 and U18), three maturity groups (pre-peak height velocity (PHV), circum-PHV, and post-PHV) and two competition level groups (elite and sub-elite). Independent samples t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVAs) were employed to examine group differences, and Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to investigate intragroup relationships between morphological and physical fitness variables.ResultsThere was no difference in body fat percentage (P > 0.05) between U14 and U18 in terms of anthropometric measurement indicators. In contrast, significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in most physical fitness indicators (T-test, standing long jump, 30-m sprint, p ull up and 400-m run), with the U18 athletes showing superior performance. No significant differences were observed between elite and sub-elite youth breaking athletes, except in the one-minute sit-up test (P = 0.028). Significant differences among different maturity groups were found in age (P < 0.01), maturity offset (P < 0.001), height (P < 0.001), body mass (P < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.001), sitting height (P < 0.001), leg length (P = 0.016), T-test (P = 0.029), standing long jump (P = 0.019), 30-m sprint (P = 0.006), 30s bodyweight squat (P = 0.030), and 400-m (P = 0.021). While chronological age and maturity status correlated with multiple physical performance indicators, body fat percentage (P > 0.05) showed no such association.ConclusionsChronological age and maturity status play a crucial role in the physical performance of breaking athletes. However, the current physical fitness tests may not effectively distinguish the competitive levels of breaking athletes. Future studies are recommended to further develop and refine sport-specific test batteries.