Group Of Athletes Research Articles

Fast rehab after midshaft clavicula fractures in elite cyclists and motocross riders.

Clavicle fractures are one of the most common injuries in cyclists and motocross riders. Although a fast return to sport is imperative for athletes, there is only limited literature on short-term functional outcomes after open reduction internal fixation of a clavicle fracture in a homogenous group of athletes. The aim of this study is to evaluate early (first 6 weeks) functional outcomes, return to sports and complications of elite or high-level recreational (± 8000 km per year) cyclists and motocross riders after surgical treatment of a midshaft clavicle fracture. The main study parameters were Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDash); QuickDash sports module, pain in rest and movement (Numeric Pain Rating Score) and time to return to sports (training indoor/outdoor and competition). All parameters were taken pre-operatively and at 2/4/6/12/24 weeks post-operative. A total of 34 cyclists (6 LTFU) and 9 motocross riders (2 LTFU) were included at baseline. A significant decrease in Quick dash scores between preoperative (33 ± 1.2) and 2 weeks PO (21.5 ± 1.2) and between 2 and 4 weeks PO (16.1 ± 1.3) was found for cyclists. The QuickDash scores of the motocross riders statistically improvement from preoperative (31.6 ± 3.3) to 6 weeks PO (14.1 ± 3.3). NRS score in rest for cyclists decreased significantly from 3.6 ± 0.2 to 1.0 ± 0.2 after two weeks. After 4 weeks, 93% of cyclists and 57% of motocross riders were training outside. After 6 weeks, 56% of cyclists and 57% of motocross riders had returned to competition. Our results show that early surgical treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures in elite cyclists and motocross riders is a safe method with few complications and good functional outcomes.

Handgrip Strength as a Distinguishing Factor of People Training Martial Arts

Jujutsu is a close-contact grappling combat sport. Karate is a long-distance combat sport, primarily using strikes and kicks. Well-designed strength characteristics should be capable of differentiating between participants of martial arts and combat sports, especially if, due to training preferences, they develop particular preferences for grappling or striking that differentiate them, as is the case in jujutsu and karate. One hundred and seventy-eight participants were tested for their age, weight, years of training, style (modern jujutsu, Polish and German groups, karate Kyokushin, karate Shotokan), skill level (Kyu or Dan grade), gender, and handgrip strength (HGS). An analysis of variance utilizing age, weight, years of training, martial art, gender, and skill in explaining HGS showed that variance in skill level and the interaction between skills and weight were significant. Furthermore, a post-hoc Tukey’s HSD test based on skills separated practitioners with the second Kyu from those with the sixth Dan grade. There were two groups identified when a similar analysis was conducted for the interaction between skill and weight. The first one encompassed all athletes below the fifth grade, whereas the second one comprised the remaining practitioners. Principal component analysis with gender as a grouping variable showed that women formed a partly separated group of athletes, with the most differentiating factors being age and years of training. When the grouping variable was skill level, the most influential variables were weight, HGS, and age. Finally, utilizing martial arts as a grouping variable showed that age, years of training, and skill were the essential variables. Our study has demonstrated that by utilizing HGS in combination with such characteristics as weight, age, years of training, gender, Dan grade, and martial arts, it is possible to identify differences between people training distinct martial styles, those with varying skills, and those representing opposite sexes. However, the differentiation is only sometimes apparent.

Towards an Evidence-Based Classification System for Para Dressage: Associations between Impairment and Performance Measures.

This study follows a previously defined framework to investigate the impact of impairment on performance in Para dressage athletes. Twenty-one elite Para dressage athletes (grades I to V) and eleven non-disabled dressage athletes (competing at Prix St. Georges or Grand Prix) participated. Data were collected in two phases: performing a two minute custom dressage test on a riding simulator while kinematic data were synchronously collected using inertial measurement units (2000 Hz) and optical motion capture (100 Hz), and clinically assessed using a battery of impairment assessment tools administered by qualified therapists. Impairment and performance measures were compared between Para and non-disabled athletes. Significant differences between athlete groups were found for all impairment measures and two performance measures: simulator trunk harmonics (p = 0.027) and athlete trunk dynamic symmetry (p < 0.001). Impairment assessments of sitting function and muscle tone could predict 19 to 35% of the impact of impairment on performance in Para athletes but not in non-disabled athletes. These findings provide the basis for a robust, scientific evidence base, which can be used to aid in the refinement of the current classification system for Para dressage, to ensure that it is in line with the International Paralympic Committee's mandate for evidence-based systems of classification.

Effectiveness of motor imagery on sports performance in football players: A randomised control trial.

Nowadays, the development of training programs for speed, agility and reaction time responses in football players is increasing widely. Motor imagery is a new method that uses collateral with physical training. However, there is still a scarcity of evidence concerning the addition of motor imagery protocol to routine training programs. The main objective was to compare speed, agility and reaction time after motor imagery training in university athletes and amateur athletes who received and did not receive motor imagery training for 2 weeks. Participants were divided into 4 subgroups as follows: university athlete group with motor imagery training and control group, amateur athlete group with motor imagery training and control group. This study collected the training effects of speed, agility and reaction time. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney U test were selected to analyse the differences within and between groups, respectively. The result presented positive changes in all variables after training sessions for 2 weeks in all groups. Speed at 20 m, agility, and reaction time were found to be significantly different after motor imagery training in both university athletes and amateur athletes. This finding demonstrated that the addition of the motor imagery training along with routine physical training promotes physical performance in athletes at all experience levels. In further studies, the retention effect after practice should be considered.

Plyometric Jump Training Exercise Optimization for Maximizing Human Performance: A Systematic Scoping Review and Identification of Gaps in the Existing Literature.

Plyometric jump training (PJT) encompasses a range of different exercises that may offer advantages over other training methods to improve human physical capabilities (HPC). However, no systematic scoping review has analyzed either the role of the type of PJT exercise as an independent prescription variable or the gaps in the literature regarding PJT exercises to maximize HPC. This systematic scoping review aims to summarize the published scientific literature and its gaps related to HPC adaptations (e.g., jumping) to PJT, focusing on the role of the type of PJT exercise as an independent prescription variable. Computerized literature searches were conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS electronic databases. Design (PICOS) framework: (P) Healthy participants of any age, sex, fitness level, or sports background; (I) Chronic interventions exclusively using any form of PJT exercise type (e.g., vertical, unilateral). Multimodal interventions (e.g., PJT + heavy load resistance training) will be considered only if studies included two experimental groups under the same multimodal intervention, with the only difference between groups being the type of PJT exercise. (C) Comparators include PJT exercises with different modes (e.g., vertical vs. horizontal; vertical vs. horizontal combined with vertical); (O) Considered outcomes (but not limited to): physiological, biomechanical, biochemical, psychological, performance-related outcomes/adaptations, or data on injury risk (from prevention-focused studies); (S) Single- or multi-arm, randomized (parallel, crossover, cluster, other) or non-randomized. Through database searching, 10,546 records were initially identified, and 69 studies (154 study groups) were included in the qualitative synthesis. The DJ (counter, bounce, weighted, and modified) was the most studied type of jump, included in 43 study groups, followed by the CMJ (standard CMJ or modified) in 19 study groups, and the SJ (standard SJ or modified) in 17 study groups. Strength and vertical jump were the most analyzed HPC outcomes in 38 and 54 studies, respectively. The effects of vertical PJT versus horizontal PJT on different HPC were compared in 21 studies. The effects of bounce DJ versus counter DJ (or DJ from different box heights) on different HPC were compared in 26 studies. Although 69 studies analyzed the effects of PJT exercise type on different HPC, several gaps were identified in the literature. Indeed, the potential effect of the PJT exercise type on a considerable number of HPC outcomes (e.g., aerobic capacity, flexibility, asymmetries) are virtually unexplored. Future studies are needed, including greater number of participants, particularly in groups of females, senior athletes, and youths according to maturity. Moreover, long-term (e.g., >12 weeks) PJT interventions are needed.

Examining polarizing and non-polarizing filters for road sports.

The use of sunglasses and polarized sunglasses is common in all aspects of life and is very popular in outdoor athletic activities. However, the choice of athletes regarding their sunglasses is often not dictated by the performance ensured by one model rather than another but by other factors such as look or wearability due also to the lack of technical data on cataloguess. A conscious choice of filters to use, also according to road and weather conditions, supported by quantitative data, would instead allow athletes to improve their visual comfort and sport experience. The transmission spectra of 10 pairs of sports sunglasses (five polarized and five not polarized) were measured and related to the road luminance for different sun positions in both horizontal and vertical polarizations. The luminous transmission factor was calculated, and the luminance quantities while wearing the glasses were defined and calculated for all cases. A survey was submitted to a group of athletes to collect their impressions and relate them to the measurement results. The pairs of polarized and non-polarized sports sunglasses showed similar transmission factors, so their ability to mitigate outdoor light is almost the same-the main difference lies in the polarized light transmitted. Outdoor measurements showed that the light reflected by the road has a substantial polarized horizontal component. Polarized sunglasses block much of the light reflected by the road, resulting in a darker appearance of the road and reducing the glare of the scene in bright sunlight. The decrease in road luminance increases the contrast discrimination of other objects in the scene, which reflect sunlight in a non-polarized way (e.g., non-flat surfaces). The survey demonstrates that interviewed athletes prefer polarized sunglasses for these aformentioned reasons. This study highlights the advantages of polarizing sunglasses for athletic activities on roads because the road surface often reflects polarized light depending on the position of the sun.

Metabolism of vitamin D is not affected by sport activity

BackgroundHigher levels of physical activity are related to higher 25-(OH)D levels. Total 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DT) are routinely used in clinical practice to assess vitamin D, however novel biomarkers are currently being investigated as free 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DF) or vitamin D metabolite ratios (VMRs). The primary aim of our study was to assess 25-(OH)DF, vitamin D metabolites and VMRs in inactive men and athletes. A secondary aim was to check whether regular physical activity influence on vitamin D metabolome. A tertiary aim was to determine the relationship between 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP), vitamin D metabolites and VMRs in this cohort. MethodsA total of 69 participants (27 inactive men, 18 indoor and 24 outdoor athletes) participated in the study. Vitamin D metabolites (25-(OH)DT, 24,25-(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25-(OH)D3, and 1,25-(OH)2D) were assessed using LC-MS/MS. The 25-(OH)DF concentration was calculated based on serum albumin and VDBP levels. ResultsThere were no differences in vitamin D metabolites and VMRs between inactive men and between the two groups of athletes. We showed a strong relationship between 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF and 24,25-(OH)D3, 3-epi-25(OH)D3, 24,25-(OH)2D3:25-(OH)D3 VMR in each group. Analysis showed that 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF inversely associated with 25-(OH)D3:24,25-(OH)2D3, 25-(OH)D3:3-epi-25-(OH)D3, 1,25-(OH)2D:24,25-(OH)2D3 ratios in inactive men and athletes (indoor and outdoor). ConclusionsOn the basis of our results, we concluded that regular long-term physical activity has no effect on the concentration of vitamin D metabolites at rest. Furthermore, free vitamin D does not correlate more strongly with vitamin D metabolites and VMRs compared to total.

Concomitant Injuries Associated With ACL Rupture in Elite Professional Alpine Ski Racers and Soccer Players: A Comparative Study With Propensity Score Matching Analysis.

For elite professional soccer players and alpine skiers, injuries associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, such as meniscal, cartilage, or collateral ligament lesions, could result in a delayed return to sport compared with isolated ACL injury. The purpose of the study was to provide a detailed description of associated injuries at the time of primary ACL reconstruction in elite soccer players and alpine skiers. It was hypothesized that soccer players and skiers would present different typical injury patterns due to different injury mechanisms. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Surgical reports and arthroscopic images of elite professional soccer players and alpine skiers who underwent primary ACL reconstruction at a single institution between January 2010 and June 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. The presence and location of multiligamentous injury, meniscal tears, and chondral lesions were compared between the athlete groups. A propensity score matching analysis with 1:1 ratio was performed between skiers and soccer players to limit the effect of selection bias. Included were ACL reconstruction data representative of 37 soccer players and 44 alpine skiers. Meniscal pathology was found in 32 (86%) soccer players and 30 (68%) skiers. Chondral injuries were reported in 11 (30%) soccer players and 15 (34%) skiers. Results of the propensity score matching analysis in 15 pairs of soccer players and skiers indicated that soccer players had a significantly higher rate of medial meniscal injuries (73% vs 27%; P = .03) and lateral posterior root tears (33% vs 0%; P = .04) compared with skiers. A higher prevalence of combined chondral and meniscal injuries versus isolated ACL injuries was observed in both groups of athletes. Professional soccer players were characterized by higher prevalence of medial meniscal tears and lateral posterior root lesions compared with professional alpine skiers.

«ЭФФЕКТ ЗДОРОВОГО РАБОТНИКА» ПО ПОКАЗАТЕЛЯМ ОБЩЕЙ СМЕРТНОСТИ И СМЕРТНОСТИ ОТ ЗЛОКАЧЕСТВЕННЫХ НОВООБРАЗОВАНИЙ У ПЕРСОНАЛА ПРЕДПРИЯТИЙ ЯДЕРНОЙ И ХИМИЧЕСКОЙ ИНДУСТРИИ: МЕТА-АНАЛИЗЫ

A meta-analysis of studies of the ‘Standardized mortality ratio’ (SMR, in % compared with the general population) indexes of overall mortality and mortality from all malignant neoplasms for nuclear workers (NW) from 15 countries (for 2007), as well as for workers dealing with the most toxic heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cu) and beta-naphthylamine (a carcinogenic antioxidant previously used in the manufacture of paints) was carried out. For NW, a ‘Healthy worker effect’ (HWE) was found for both indexes (SMR = 62 (95 % CI: 56; 69) and 74 (95 % CI: 69; 78), respectively). The obtained SMR values for NW were compared with data for other professional groups (the results of meta-analyses and individual studies with maximum and minimum SMR values: from cosmonauts/astronauts, pilots and athletes, to work with chemical compounds in general or with their individual types (solvents, heavy metals, beta-naphthylamine), as well as with asbestos. It was found that the level of HWE for NW is comparable to that for one group of athletes and is significantly (1.30–1.45 times) higher than for chemical production personnel, although the combined data for NW is not final. For workers in the chemical industry as a whole, according to published meta-analyses, HWE was also found in SMR, but weak: the value for total mortality was 90 (95 % CI: 87; 92). At the same time, mortality from all malignant neoplasms compared with the population did not reveal a clear HWE, but was not increased either. The most harmful types of employment are, on the rise, work with heavy metals, in coal mines, with beta-naphthylamine and with asbestos. The data obtained eliminates the prevailing stereotypes and can improve the image of employment in the nuclear and chemical industries in general.

General lifestyle factors explain young athletes’ mental health more than perceived coach autonomy support: a cross-sectional study on basketball players and gymnasts aged 10–22

ObjectivesThis study described differences in lifestyle factors (sleeping problems/fatigue, pressure/activation), perceived coach autonomy support and indicators of mental health (well-being and poor general mental health) across various age groups (children...

Rapid Functional Recovery After Thoracic Outlet Decompression in a Series of Adolescent Athletes With Chronic Atraumatic Shoulder-Girdle Pain, Scapular Winging/Dyskinesis, and Normal Electrodiagnostic Studies.

Spontaneous shoulder-girdle pain and scapular winging/dyskinesis can be caused by several neuromuscular disorders identifiable by electrodiagnostic studies (EDX). We describe a group of adolescent athletes with this clinical presentation but normal EDX, followed by later development of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS). We identified patients referred for evaluation of NTOS that had a history of chronic atraumatic shoulder-girdle pain, scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX. Each was refractory to conservative management and underwent supraclavicular decompression and brachial plexus neurolysis for NTOS. Functional disability was quantified by Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) scores. There were 5 female patients with a mean age at symptom onset of 14.2 ± 0.4 years, including spontaneous severe pain in the shoulder, scapula, and arm, along with prominent scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX. Symptoms had persisted for 18.9 ± 4.0 months prior to referral, with pronounced upper extremity disability (mean QuickDASH, 54.6 ± 6.9). By 3 months after surgical treatment for NTOS, all 5 patients experienced near-complete symptom resolution, including scapular winging/dyskinesis, with markedly improved function (mean QuickDASH, 2.2 ± 1.3) and a return to normal activity. A subset of patients with chronic atraumatic shoulder-girdle pain, scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX may develop dynamic brachial plexus compression characteristic of NTOS, exhibiting an ischemic "Sunderland-zero" nerve conduction block for which surgical decompression can result in rapid and substantial clinical improvement. The presence of surgically treatable NTOS should be considered for selected patients with long-standing scapular winging/dyskinesis who fail conservative management.

IS THE RACEWALKING BIOMECHANICS SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCED BY COACHING?

While there is a significant number of analyses of influence of coaching and training content on performance, detailed analyses linking teaching the technique and biomechanics indicators in literature are rather scarce. The purpose of the study was to determine the differences between two groups of racewalkers in the selected variables describing their gaits. The research method consisted of measuring ground reaction forces as well as kinematics of motion recorded by video cameras and the OptoJumpNext system of 14 athletes from two distinct training groups of athletes walking at individually determined speed. To identify the differences in 9 key variables between the two groups, a two-sample unpaired T-test was performed, which was also controlled by Cohens' effect size indicator. The main finding of the study is that 5 key variables unrelated to walking speed were statistically different between the two groups, with Group A (predominantly "M"-shaped) having a lower ratio of peak ground reaction force (GRF) to GRF at 70% of the contact phase (p=0.0000), lower ratio of total GRF at the end and beginning of the interval 70% - 80% (p=0.0006), greater pelvic rotation (p=0.0056) and a more upright posture with lower forward pelvic tilt (p=0.0001) and lower backward thoracic tilt (p=0.0000). There were no significant differences between the two groups in two variables describing upper body movement i.e. arm-swing angle and thoracic rotation. Another variable (peak GRF) was also statistically different between the two group (p=0.0000), but this variable is related to the walking speed, which was not identical for the two groups. In conclusion, differences in the selected biomechanical indicators, that are trainable according to literature, may have been influenced by apparently different training approaches applied within the two groups of athletes. We suggest that, although the gait in racewalking is rather strictly defined by the rules, the above variables can and should be controlled and influenced by training to develop a smooth racewalking technique with lower peak ground reaction forces.

Electrocardiographic findings and cardiovascular risk profile in paralympic athletes

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Paralympic athletes are a special group of elite athletes with unique cardiovascular issues. Recently, the term "Paralympic medicine" has been used to describe the specific medical conditions of athletes participating in the Paralympics. However, there are limited data regarding cardiovascular screening in Paralympic athletes. Purpose To assess the prevalence of normal and abnormal cardiac findings and cardiovascular risk factors in a subset of male Paralympic athletes. Methods From April 2019 to July 2021, male Paralympic athletes who were selected for participation in Paralympic Games in non-endurance sports disciplines, underwent cardiac screening including history, physical examination, 12-leads electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiography and blood test. Athletes were classified according to the sports disciplines into three groups: 1) skill (archery, shooting, taekwondo, judo); 2) power (weightlifting, discus throwing, shot putting, javelin throwing) and 3) mixed (sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball, rowing). As well as divided base on the type of disability into two groups: 1) athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI), and 2) athletes with non-spinal cord injuries (NSCI). All ECG were interpreted according to international recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes. Results Among 82 Paralympic athletes (mean age, 33.7 [21-49] years), there were 19 (23%) in skill, 25 (31%) in power, and 38 (46%) in mixed sports disciplines and 24 (30%) had SCI and 58 (70%) had NSCI. There were no abnormalities observed in two-dimensional echocardiography. Normal ECG findings were seen in 28 athletes (34.1%) with a higher prevalence in athletes with NSCI (41.3%) and participated in mixed (47.3%) sports discipline (p&amp;lt;0.001). Borderline ECG findings were detected in 6 (7.3%) with more frequent in athletes with SCI (12.5%) and participated in power (16%) sports disciplines (p&amp;lt;0.001). The prevalence of abnormal ECG findings were 3.6% and there was no significant difference regard to type of disability and sports disciplines. Cardiac risk factors including hypertension was detected in 8 (9.7%); triglycerides &amp;gt;200 mg/dl in 21 (25.6%), total cholesterol &amp;gt;200 mg/dl in 15 (18.2%), 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 &amp;lt;30 ng/ml in 35 (42.6%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol &amp;gt;130 mg/dl in 8 (9.7%), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥50 mg/dl in 15 (18.2%) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol &amp;lt;40 mg/dl in 7 (8.5%); that were significantly more frequent in athletes with SCI and athletes participated in power sports disciplines (p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions The overall prevalence of borderline ECG findings and cardiovascular risk factors are unexpectedly high in Paralympic athletes. This study emphasizes that Paralympic athletes especially those with SCI and participating in power sports disciplines are not immune from cardiovascular risk factors and requires more medical care attention through relevant cardiovascular screening strategies.

Effects of the Trp64Arg Polymorphism in the ADRB3 Gene on Body Composition, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Physical Activity in Healthy Adults.

The ADRB3 gene plays a role in energy expenditure by participating in lipolysis, which affects body composition and performance. The ADRB3 rs4994 polymorphism has been studied in groups of athletes, overweight individuals, and obese and diabetic patients, but it has not been studied in young and healthy adults so far. In the present study, we examined the association of ADRB3 rs4994 polymorphism with body composition, somatotype, cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity in young, healthy adults (N = 304). All subjects had anthropometric measurements, and somatotypes were assessed using the Heath-Carter method. In addition, cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity levels were assessed. Genotyping for the ADRB3 gene was performed using a PCR-RFLP method. In the male group, body components were associated with the Trp64Trp genotype (waist circumference (p = 0.035), hip circumference (p = 0.029), BF (%) (p = 0.008), and BF (kg) (p = 0.010), BMI (p = 0.005), WHtR (p = 0.021), and BAI (p = 0.006)). In addition, we observed that the Trp64Trp genotype was associated with somatotype components (p = 0.013). In contrast, the Arg allele was associated with the ectomorphic components (0.006). We also observed a positive impact of the Trp64Trp genotype with maximal oxygen uptake (p= 0.023) and oxygen pulse (p = 0.024). We observed a negative relationship of the Trp64Trp genotype in the female group with reported moderate-intensity exercise (p = 0.036). In conclusion, we found an association of the Trp64 allele with anthropometric traits, somatotype and parameters describing physical performance in the male group. In the female subpopulation, we only found an effect of the polymorphism Trp64Arg on the level of physical activity for moderate-intensity exercise.

Prevalence and incidence of health problems and their characteristics in Brazilian para athletes: A one-season single-center prospective pilot study

BackgroundPara athletes experience high prevalence and incidence of health problems related to sport. Despite this, there are few longitudinal studies. ObjectiveTo describe the characteristics, prevalence, incidence, and severity of health problems in para athletes from one of the Brazilian Paralympic Reference Centers during a sports season and to compare the prevalence of health problems between para athletics, para powerlifting, and para swimming. MethodsThis prospective pilot study was conducted from October 2019 to March 2020. The Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems was used to record injuries and illnesses every week for 24 weeks. The characteristics, prevalence, incidence, and severity of health problems were described for each modality. The prevalence of health problems was compared among the three sport modalities. ResultsThirty-five para athletes participated. Most of the injuries occurred in the shoulder, and most illnesses caused respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. The average weekly prevalence and the incidence rate of health problems were 40.6% (95% CI 17.0–64.4) and 12.7 (95% CI 9.6–15.9) per 1000 athlete hours, respectively. Para powerlifting had the highest prevalence of all and substantial health problems; para swimming had the lowest prevalence of injuries; and para athletics had the lowest prevalence of illnesses. ConclusionsThis group of Brazilian para athletes showed a high prevalence and incidence of health problems throughout the season. Para athletics, para powerlifting, and para swimming each had a different prevalence of injuries and illnesses.

Eating disorder risk in adolescent and adult female athletes: the role of body satisfaction, sport type, BMI, level of competition, and training background

BackgroundEating disorders negatively influence athletes’ health and performance. To achieve a high level of performance and conform to cultural expectations regarding an athletic body type, female athletes often restrict their diets, which can lead to eating disorders. In addition to factors related to the sports environment, adolescent athletes are subject to changes caused by the maturation process. Therefore, the same factors may have different effects on eating disorder risk among adolescent and adult athletes. This study examined the relationship between eating disorder risk, specific aspects of the sports environment (sport type, level of competition [national and international], and training background), and individual aspects (body satisfaction and body mass index) in two groups of athletes: adolescents and adults.MethodsThe sample included 241 highly trained female athletes aged 12–30 years (M = 20.68, SD = 4.45) recruited from different sports clubs in Poland. The subgroup of adolescents consisted of 82 athletes, while the number of adult athletes was 159. The Eating Attitudes Test questionnaire was used to assess the eating disorder risk among the athletes. Body satisfaction was measured using the Feelings and Attitudes Toward Body Scale incorporated into the Body Investment Scale.ResultsEating disorder risk was prevalent among 14.6% of the adolescent and 6.9% of the adult athletes. Significant associations between eating disorder risk and the studied variables were noted only among adolescent athletes. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the occurrence of eating disorder risk was associated with participation in lean non-aesthetic sports (OR = 11.50, 95% CI: 3.58–37.09). Moreover, eating disorder risk was associated with athletes’ lower body satisfaction (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.70–0.92). Body mass index was not included in the final regression model.ConclusionsThe study indicated that eating disorder risk in adolescent female athletes was related to sport type and body satisfaction. The findings showed that, in adolescent athletes, eating disorder risk was the most associated with practicing lean non-aesthetic sports. Coaches and athletes should be aware that eating disorder risk increases among individuals with a lower body image.

The Dutch language short Anterior Cruciate Ligament—Return to Sport after Injury scale has good to excellent construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability when assessing athletes undergoing rehabilitation after ACL injury or ACL reconstruction

ObjectivesTo examine the validity and reliability of the Dutch language short Anterior Cruciate Ligament—Return to Sport after Injury scale (short ACL-RSI-NL) in recreational athletes undergoing rehabilitation after ACL injury or ACL reconstruction (ACLR). MethodsThe original 12-item version of the ACL-RSI had been translated into Dutch. Short ACL-RSI-NL items were derived from this 12-item Dutch version. Content validity was evaluated by a team consisting of eight ACL experts and eight athletes. A cohort of 115 athletes with ACL injury or after ACLR completed the short ACL-RSI-NL and related questionnaires at various time points during their rehabilitation. Construct validity (hypothesis testing using Spearman correlations), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), floor and ceiling effects (percentage of athletes having the lowest or highest score possible), and structural validity (exploratory factor analysis) were evaluated in the entire ACL athlete group. Test-retest reliability (using intra-class correlation, ICC; standard error of measurement, SEM; smallest detectable change, SDC, at both group and individual levels) was investigated in a subgroup of athletes with a stable outcome on psychological readiness within a two-week interval (n ​= ​27). ResultsThe short ACL-RSI-NL demonstrated good construct validity (83% of hypotheses confirmed). Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha 0.84), and there were no floor and ceiling effects (≤13.9% lowest or highest score). Test-retest reliability was good (ICC 0.89 with 95% CI 0.77–0.95, SEM 6.93, SDC individual level 19.2, SDC group level 3.7). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed the presence of a single underlying factor (accounting for 56.4% of the total variance of the score). ConclusionThe short ACL-RSI-NL exhibited good to excellent construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. An averaged score ranging from 0 to 100 can be used to measure psychological readiness to return to sport. The short ACL-RSI-NL has potential for use in day-to-day practice to assess the psychological readiness of recreational athletes to return to sport after ACL injury or ACLR during their rehabilitation process. Level of evidenceLevel II.

Estimating marksmanship performance during walking while maintaining weapon aim

Marksmanship performance while moving is a critical skill among tactical athletes due to the high demands of their occupational duties. Qualifications for dynamic marksmanship performance are not standardized across tactical athlete groups, which may limit comprehensive assessment of tactical athlete performance for situational awareness and adaptability to an unpredictable environment. Although static marksmanship performance provides foundational information on skills and level of ability, research is lacking on factors that influence dynamic marksmanship performance to best prepare tactical athletes for duties. The purpose of this study was to identify whether static marksmanship performance, speed of movement, load carriage, and biomechanical factors while ‘shooting on the move’ influenced dynamic marksmanship performance. Twenty-four male tactical athletes (22 active-duty Army Soldiers, two civilian SWAT operators; age: 23.83 ± 5.47 years; height: 1.80 ± 0.08 m; weight: 81.04 ± 7.87 kg) participated; final analyses did not include data from the two civilian operators to maintain sample homogeneity. Tactical athletes completed static and dynamic (‘shoot on the move’) marksmanship tasks under three load conditions: (1) no load (NL), (2) half kit (HK) of 11.34 kg, and (3) full kit (KIT) of 22.68 kg. Dynamic marksmanship was completed under three speed conditions: (1) self-selected slow speed, (2) standard speed, and (3) self-selected fast speed. Hip, knee, and ankle kinematics were collected via wireless inertial measurement units. Spatiotemporal parameters were collected via optical detection system. Marksmanship performance (accuracy) was collected via open-air acoustic target scoring and mean radial error (MRE) was calculated for both static and dynamic marksmanship tasks. Linear mixed-effects models were fit with dynamic MRE as the outcome variable with fixed effects of static MRE, load condition, speed condition, kinematics, and spatiotemporal parameters, adjusting for body mass. Alpha level was set a priori at p ≤ 0.10. The final statistical model included fixed effects of static MRE, load condition, speed condition, and time spent in double limb support. Static MRE (p < 0.01) and time spent in double limb support (p = 0.01) were significant factors. For each 1 cm increase in static MRE there was a 0.66 cm increase in dynamic MRE. For every 1% increase in time spent in double limb support while ‘shooting on the move’ there was a 0.13 cm increase in dynamic MRE. Findings from this study highlight that tactical athletes who have larger static stance MRE and spend a longer time in double limb support during a gait cycle exhibit an increase in MRE during ‘shoot on the move’ trials. Overall, dynamic shooting accuracy is not affected by lower extremity joint angles, load carriage, or speed of movement. Although strong relationships are known between gait speed, load, and lower extremity kinematics, the differences in tactical gait compared to normal gait and multi-task paradigm that likely favors marksmanship accuracy seem to present novel movement characteristics unique to occupational gait. Further investigation is warranted to identify other potential factors that may improve or worsen dynamic marksmanship performance.

Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version of the Sports Anxiety Scale-2 (SAS-2).

The main aim of the study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Sports Anxiety scale-2 (SAS-2). The study covered 396 athletes, ages ranging from 18 years to 35 years. The task and ego orientation in sport questionnaire (TEOSQ) and State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used for validation of the scale. Cronbach's alpha for the somatic anxiety subscale was 0.88, for the worry subscale was 0.95, and for the concentration disruption was 0.86, respectively. The three-factor model and hierarchical model fits perfectly as CFI > 0.95, TLI > 0.95, and RMSEA < 0.08. Satisfactory results in measurement invariance show the use of the tool for any gender or athlete (high-performance, recreational) group. The internal consistency (α = 0.86-0.95) and the test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.87-0.90) were satisfactory. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between task orientation and total anxiety along with its three subscales, and a weak positive correlation between ego orientation and worry subscale. Meanwhile, a weak to moderate positive correlation was exhibited between total anxiety and its subscales with the STAI-T and STAI-S. Additionally, female, recreational, and female recreational athletes' groups had weak negative associations between worry and concentration disruption trait anxiety and task orientation, and a weak positive association between somatic anxiety and ego orientation.

Relationship of Testosterone, LH, Estradiol, IGF-1, and SHBG with Physical Performance of Master Athletes

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), estradiol (ES), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in master sprint (MS) and master endurance (ME) athletes. Additionally, the possible associations between these hormones, body composition, and lipid profile with athletic performance (% of performance in relation to the current world record) were analyzed. Materials and Methods: The participants were all men: (i) 34 MS (51.0 ± 6.8 years); and (ii) 32 ME (51.7 ± 9.4 years). Student’s t-tests for independent samples were performed to compare all variables between groups. Results: MS had a significantly higher (p = .008) average IGF-1 (154.78 ± 29.85 ng/mL) when compared to ME (129.92 ± 25.48 ng/mL). Performance was significantly correlated with IGF-1 (r = 0.424). The MS group had a moderately lower body fat than ME athletes (MS 12.54 ± 4.07 vs. ME 14.60 ± 4.12; p = .078; d = 0.503). Conclusions: Thus, strength/power training exercise/sport seems to be more beneficial for obtaining a higher IGF-1 compared to aerobic/distance exercise/sport. In addition, LH, T, ES, and SHBG were similar between the two groups of athletes and were comparable to the reference values of younger adults.