Sports Health Research Articles

Self-assessed health of adult Australian sport club participants during and after COVID-19 restrictions: a longitudinal study

BackgroundInternationally, COVID-19 restrictions impacted negatively on participation in sport and physical activity. Participation in community club sport was particularly disrupted with cancelled training and competitions, and this has been shown to impact the health of individuals. We now need to investigate the effects of the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.AimThe aim of this study was to longitudinally investigate the health of Australian adult sports club participants, during and post-COVID-19 restrictions.MethodsTwo waves of an online survey were conducted in mid-2020 and mid-2021. The first wave also captured retrospective pre-COVID19 (2019) data. For each year 2019–2021 each survey respondent was categorized as participating (Yes/No) in club sport. Respondents also assessed their current health (overall, physical and mental) in both 2020 and 2021. The six health assessments were cross-tabulated against three patterns of participation (dropout, dropout and return, continuation), for the survey sample overall and for six demographic subsamples: 42 crosstabulations in all.ResultsA total of 1,037 Australians aged 18 years and above completed both survey waves. Those who continued playing club sport throughout, and to a lesser degree those who returned to club sport in 2021, reported better physical and general health than those who dropped out. This pattern was consistent, for the overall survey sample and for the sub-samples based on gender, age and region of residence, with statistically significantly associations (p < 0.05) in 24 of 28 analyses. The pattern of club sport participation was only weakly associated with reported mental health, with only one of 14 associations being statistically significant.ConclusionChanges in club sport participation impact general and physical health of adults; continuation or return were associated with better physical and general health than drop-out. There was little evidence of an association between participation in sport and mental health, which is inconsistent with previously reported cross-sectional results; this may be due to a combination of factors, including confounding with the broader effects of the pandemic. In conclusion, it is clear that retention in participation in sport is not just important for sports management policy and strategies; it is also important for the health of individuals.

Equitable Access to Sports: Youth Gymnastics Coaches’ Perceptions on Promoting Inclusivity for Athletes with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Aims The purpose of the study was to explore youth gymnastics coaches’ perceptions on inclusive sports participation following an educational module. The study aims to explore implications for occupational therapy professionals’ role in inclusive sports. Methods A qualitative descriptive approach was utilized with convenience sampling occurring through online platforms. Nine participants completed an educational module on autism spectrum disorder including strategies to promote inclusion in sports and address sensory and motor issues, prior to completing a semi-structured interview. Interviews were transcribed and coded prior to the determination of themes with triangulation and member checking employed. Results Thematic analysis resulted in the following themes: (1) occupational engagement in sports benefits both neurodiverse and neurotypical children; (2) sociocultural and physical environments create barriers to autistic youth’s participation in sports; and (3) grace and knowledge enhance coaches’ ability to promote inclusive occupational participation in sports for autistic youth. Themes were representative of the interconnected occupational components impacting inclusive sports of which occupational therapists are poised to address. Conclusion Lack of participation in sports for all children and children with disabilities is a complex system of physical, social, psychological, cultural, and environmental elements. Occupational therapists are equipped to educate youth sports providers and demonstrate leadership in advocating for inclusive sports programs to facilitate equitable sports participation, health, and wellness for children.

Sports and Bone Health: The Impact of Physical Activity on Bone Mineral Density

Sports and Bone Health: The Impact of Physical Activity on Bone Mineral Density

Adolescent Sports Participation and Health in Early Adulthood: An Observational Study

We study the impact of teenage sports participation on early-adulthood health using data from the National Study of Youth and Religion. We focus on two primary outcomes measured at ages 23 to 28 (self-rated health and PHQ9 Patient Depression Questionnaire score) and control for several demographic and socioeconomic confounders. To probe the possibility that certain types of sports participation may have larger effects on health than others, we conduct matched observational studies at each level within a hierarchy of exposures. Our hierarchy ranges from broadly defined exposures (e.g., participation in any organized after-school activity) to narrow (e.g., participation in collision sports). We maintained a fixed family-wise error rate using an ordered testing approach that exploits the hierarchical relationships between our exposure definitions. Compared to teenagers who did not participate in any after-school activities, those who participated in sports had statistically significantly better self-rated and mental health outcomes in early adulthood.

Educational Needs of the Esports Industry: A Delphi Study

Although esports has grown significantly over the past decades with educational programs expanding globally, there is a lack of understanding of the specific areas where students in esports require development, including technical and interpersonal skills essential for success in emerging disciplines. To identify these educational needs in esports and thereby inform future research and educational programs, a Delphi study including global experts was conducted. Using an online survey, 25 experts prioritized educational needs for esports based on existing programs and suggest missing elements. Following this survey, 20 experts joined panel discussions to discuss the survey ranking and reach consensus. The study highlighted “Entrepreneurship and Innovation,” “Sport Science and Health,” and “Esports Management and Business” as the top three educational needs. Although aspects such as “Technology and IT Skills,” “Broadcasting and Journalism,” and “Game Design and Development” were ranked lower, the panels stressed the role of every educational need identified within this study and the constant-changing environment, including short- and long-term needs. The findings underline the necessity for evidence-based educational programs to support the esports industry and facilitate the transition from education to employment. Further research is needed to adjust educational pathways to keep up with the evolving esports industry.

Improving Graduate Competence in Physical Training and Sports Student Training Programs at Surabaya State University

Community empowerment is an essential effort focused on fostering change in different areas, including athletics, social sciences, arts, and local culture. In the realm of sports, community empowerment aims to improve the quality of human resources, athleticism, and performance at provincial, national, and even global levels. It acts as a tool for molding community identity and is vital for the advancement of sports. A goal of this Community Empowerment Program (PKM) is to provide certified training for physical trainers to students in the Vocational Faculty and the Sports Science and Health Sports Study Programs within the Health Faculty. This initiative seeks to promote sports accomplishments at both student and wider levels, encompassing regional, provincial, national, and international tiers. Developing sports success through a systematic, enduring, and sustainable approach is crucial for creating sports excellence as a regional trait and national identity. Community engagement plays a vital role in influencing national sports policies and programs. The enhancement of sports via the Sports Study Program at FV and FIKK is crucial for achieving both community involvement in sports and sports success. The techniques used consist of training physical trainers and the creation of programs. Physical trainer training emphasizes creating physical conditioning that meets the requirements of particular energy systems, sport traits, and periodization to improve athletes' biomotor abilities. Moreover, attendees are taught how to create physical training plans to enhance athlete performance and achieve established goals. This program aims to prepare FV and FIKK sports students to create training plans that improve athlete performance and lead to success. The aim is to develop proficient coaches and top-performing athletes capable of representing East Java and Indonesia in various competitive arenas.

Changes in Tendon Thickness After Chondrovita FIT® Supplementation in Elite Skaters: Findings from a Quasi-Experimental Study.

The use of dietary supplements is widespread in sports and fitness, with many products containing multiple ingredients. Among supplements often consumed to support musculotendinous health, collagen hydrolysate (CH) has gained popularity for its potential in improving joint comfort and function. This single-blind quasi-experimental study investigated the effects of a three-month oral supplementation with a specific CH-based product, Chondrovita FIT® (Bone Srl, Rome, Italy), on tendon structure in elite Italian skaters. Eighteen male and female elite skaters (mean age: 21 ± 3 years) participated, receiving daily pre-workout (4500 mg CH) and post-workout (2500 mg CH) doses. Tendon structure in the patellar and peroneal tendons was assessed using ultrasound imaging at baseline and post-supplementation. Results showed a significant increase in tendon thickness in both the patellar and peroneal tendons after supplementation, although no changes were observed in the tendon cross-sectional area. These findings suggest that Chondrovita FIT® supplementation may induce beneficial structural changes in tendons, potentially supporting tendon health and performance in high-load sports. However, further research is needed to confirm long-term effects and functional outcomes.

Experience of Orofacial Injuries and Use of Mouthguards - A Survey in German Elite Sport.

This study aimed to assess the experience of orofacial injuries and sports mouthguard use in German elite athletes. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted. The data were collected at the Institute of Applied Training Science (IAT, Leipzig, Germany) that provides regular primary care for elite athletes. German elite athletes (18-35 years) from different disciplines with completed questionnaire on oral health in sports between May 2020 and April 2021 were included. N/A. Number of dental, oral, and facial injuries during sports career and mouthguard use (received information, ownership, frequency) were assessed and compared between disciplines with different risks for orofacial trauma. In total, questionnaires of 337 athletes (23 ± 4 years, 50% female) were included. Disciplines were classified into high (HT, n = 20), medium (MT, n = 48), and low (LT, n = 269) risk for orofacial trauma. Substantial rates of injuries were identified; especially a lot of HT athletes reported orofacial injuries (HT: 55%, MT: 31%, LT: 17%; P ≤ 0.076) and dental injuries (HT: 30%, MT: 10%, LT: 7%; P ≤ 0.028). Mouthguards were rare (HT: 25%, MT: 0%, LT: 3%). There is a need for more prevention of orofacial injuries in German elite sports for both HT and MT.

Youth Perceptions of Participation in Organized Sports and Mental Health.

Organized sports are among one of the most widespread activities in youth. The purpose of this study was to assess the associations between youth perceptions of their participation in organized sports and mental health from the perspective of youth and their parents. Participants were 208 children ages 5 to 12 years. Children who endorsed elevated depressive symptoms scored significantly higher on the YES-S Negative Experiences Scale (mean = 19.00) compared to children who did not endorse elevated depressive symptoms (mean = 14.94; P < 0.01; d = 0.63). After controlling for the number of mental health diagnoses, there was a significant positive association between the YES-S Negative Experiences Scale and child self-reported depressive symptoms (standardized beta coefficient = 0.40; P < 0.001). Our findings underscore the importance of creating positive environments for organized youth sports and highlight the value of assessing both child and parent perspectives of child depressive symptoms in the context of organized sports participation.

The Relationship Between Sports Club Participation, Physical Activity, and Health Behaviors Among Older Korean Adults.

Participation in physical activity can improve the physical, mental, and social health of older adults, with greater benefits observed when they join sports clubs or groups rather than exercising alone. Despite the numerous advantages of older adults' participation in sports clubs, research on this topic remains scarce. This study investigated the association between participation in sports clubs and weekly physical activity, perceived health status, and health behaviors (adequate rest and sleep and regular meals and nutritional supplementation) among Korean older adults. Data on 5146 individuals aged 60 years or older, collected from the 2022-2023 Korea National Lifestyle and Sports Survey, were analyzed using frequency, chi-square, and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Significant differences were found in sex, age, weekly physical activity, perceived health status, adequate rest and sleep, regular meals and nutritional supplementation, use of exercise prescription and consultation services, participation in lifestyle physical education classes, and cessation of drinking and smoking based on participation in sports clubs. Sports club participation increased the frequency of weekly physical activity and improved perceptions of health status in older adults. The average odds ratios (ORs) for weekly physical activity were 6.667 (95% confidence interval CI = 4.316-10.297; p < 0.001), 5.237 (95% CI = 3.372-8.133; p < 0.001), and 3.042 (95% CI = 1.864-4.966; p < 0.001) for 1-2, 3-4, and 5 or more days of participation, respectively. The average ORs were 0.559 (95% CI = 0.264-1.183; p = 0.128) for inadequate rest and sleep, and 1.272 (95% CI = 0.555-1.694; p = 0.100) for adequate rest and sleep. Average ORs were 0.976 (95% CI = 0.497-1.915; p = 0.943) for irregular meals and nutritional supplementation, and 1.028 (95% CI 0.770-1.373; p = 0.851) for regular meals and nutritional supplementation. However, sports club participation was not significantly associated with sufficient rest and sleep or regular meals and nutritional supplementation. Older adults need support to join sports clubs, which can promote their physical activity and health.

Mental health perspectives on nonsuicidal self-injury and suicidality among intramural, club, and varsity women college athletes

Objective: This study explores rates and correlates of NSSI and suicidality of women college athletes, taking into consideration sport competition level (i.e., intramural, club, varsity). Participants: Data were drawn from self-identified women college athletes (n = 8,842) who participated in the Healthy Minds Study. Methods: Mental health correlates of NSSI and suicidality were assessed with logistic regression. Results: Approximately 19%–24% of the women college athlete sample reported past-year engagement in NSSI; 8%–10% reported suicidal ideation; 3%–4% reported suicidal planning; and 0.8%–1% reported attempted suicide. Rates of NSSI and suicidal ideation were relatively higher for club sports women college athletes. Clinical mental health concerns, substance use concerns, positive mental health, and interpersonal concerns were correlates of NSSI and suicidality, with variations observed across competition level. Conclusions: Findings spotlight the urgency to intervene in NSSI and suicidality among women college athletes while being informed of demographic, sport, and mental health risk factors.

Development of Textile-Based Strain Sensors for Compression Measurements in Sportswear (Sports Bra).

Women sports wearer's comfort and health are greatly impacted by the breast movements and resultant sports bra compression to prevent excessive movement. However, as sports bras are only made in universal sizes, they do not offer the right kind of support that is required for a certain activity. To prevent this issue, textile-based strain sensors may be utilized to track compression throughout various activities to create activity-specific designed sports bras. Textile-based strain sensors are prepared in this study using various conductive yarns, including steel, Ag-coated polyamide, and polypropylene/steel-blended threads. Various embroidery designs, including straight, zigzag, and square-wave embroidery patterns, etc., were created on knitted fabric and characterized for strain sensing efficiencies. The experiments concluded that strain sensors prepared from polypropylene/steel thread using a 2-thread square-wave design were best performed in terms of linear conductivity, sensitivity of mechanical impact, and wide working range. This best-performed sample was also tested by integrating it into the sportswear for proposed compression measurements in different body movements.

Study on the Development of Explosive Force in Athletic Jumping through Plyometrics Exercises at the Level of Junior Athletes

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the importance of implementing plyometric exercises especially in the case of students in vocational mainstream education for improving relaxation and implicitly sports performance. The present paper highlights a study based on a theoretical and practical approach to the notion of plyometrics by applying a specific program based on plyometric exercises for the development of explosive force in advanced groups, compared to subjects carrying out a regular training program. By implementing this type of exercise at the level of all students, regardless of the way in which they practice athletics, benefits are brought both in terms of sports performance and health.

The Effectivity of the PBL Model in Learning Outcomes Analyzing Variations Basketball Playing Skills for Class X SMAN 7 in Central Maluku Regency

This study aims to analyze the ability of Physical Education and Sports Health teachers using the Problem-based learning model to improve basketball playing skills of class X-IPA1 High School 7, Central Maluku. This research is descriptive with a qualitative approach. The research participants were Physical Education and Sports Health teachers at class X. The data collection techniques used were; (1) observation; uses innovative learning assessment format of 19 assessment indicators, (2) interviews, (3) documentation, and (4) triangulation. To analyze data, use the model qualitative analysis technique from Milles and Huberman. This research produces several points: (1) The average ability of subjects to utilize problem-based learning in Physical Education, Sports, and Health, especially the material analyzing variations in basketball playing skills, is 69,47%, so it is in the “Good” category. (2) Based on 19 innovative learning assessment indicators, the results were as follows: (a) The best category had 5% or only 1 indicator, (b) the “Good” category had 42% or 8 indicators, (c) the “Sufficient” category had 48% or 9 indicators, (d) “Poor” category of 5% or 1 indicator. Even though the subject’s ability is in the average category, there is 1 indicator in the “poor” category. In conclusion, (1) the research subjects were not optimal in implementing the problem-based learning model in learning Physical Education, Sports, and Health, especially the material analyzing variations in Basketball Playing Skills. (2) Subjects have not activated the ability to analyze variations in students’ skills in practical activities in the field. (3) Participants had not carried out assessments of learning processes. Keywords: effectivity, PBL, learning outcomes

Enhancing inertial sensor-based sports activity recognition through reduction of the signals and deep learning

The increasing demand for sport training and health monitoring aligns with contemporary lifestyle trends. Developing a system to support sport training and verify exercise correctness can significantly enhance the acquisition of detailed, subject-specific data. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of sport exercise recognition while minimizing the number of sensors required. The dataset includes 8,968 samples of exercises such as bar dips, squats, dips, lunges, pull-ups, sit-ups, and push-ups. Data were collected from 60 signals using mobile sensors positioned at the chest, right hand, and right foot of 21 subjects. The objective is to identify the most efficient method for recognizing these activities. Our methodology involved experiments with 21 participants in a custom-built setup and the application of deep learning techniques. Initially, a novel algorithm identified the optimal set of signals. We then tested two scenarios: training a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) on raw signals and on pre-processed signals to reduce noise. The findings indicate that the magnetic field (MF) signal is crucial for recognizing exercises in both filtered and unfiltered data sets. The CNN’s accuracy was 2–3% higher with unfiltered data and remained robust at 93.7% for training and 90.0% for testing, despite a reduction in model complexity. This method’s practical implications are significant, enhancing sports training systems by reducing the number of sensors needed, thereby improving user comfort. Additionally, it contributes valuable insights to the field of Human Activity Recognition.

3D Wetting Gradient Janus Sports Bras for Efficient Sweat Removal: A Strategy to Improve Women's Sports Comfort and Health.

Developing Janus fabrics with excellent one-way sweat transport capacity is an attractive way for providing comfort sensation and protecting the health during exercise. In this work, a 3D wetting gradient Janus fabric (3DWGJF) is first proposed to address the issue of excessive sweat accumulation in women's breasts, followed by integration with a sponge pad to form a 3D wetting gradient Janus sports bra (3DWGJSB). The 3D wetting gradient enables the prepared fabric to control the horizontal migration of sweat in one-way mode (x/y directions) and then unidirectionally penetrate downward (z direction), finally keeping the water content on the inner side of 3DWGJF (skin side) at ≈0%. In addition, the prepared 3DWGJF has good water vapor transmittance rate (WVTR: 0.0409gcm-2h-1) and an excellent water evaporation rate (0.4704gh-1). Due to the high adhesion of transfer prints to the fabrics and their excellent mechanical properties, the 3DWGJF is remarkably durable and capable of withstanding over 500 laundering cycles and 400 abrasion cycles. This work may inspire the design and fabrication of next-generation moisture management fabrics with an effective sweat-removal function for women's health.

The Impact of Adhering to a Mediterranean Diet on the Severity of Overuse Tendinopathy Symptoms

Aim: The Mediterranean diet’s high carbohydrate content and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it appealing to athletes. Tendinopathy etiology is influenced by nutrition. Athletes with high adherence to the Mediterranean diet may have a lower severity of tendinopathy. This study aimed to investigate the effect of adherence to the Mediterranean diet on tendinopathy severity. Material and Methods: Exercise habits, physical activity level, body region, stage of the injury, age, body mass index, gender, smoking status, and presence of chronic diseases of individuals older than 18 years of age and who were diagnosed with tendinopathy in the sports medicine clinic were recorded in this cross-sectional study. The Revised Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Overuse Injury and Health Problems Questionnaires and the Mediterranean diet adherence screener were applied to participants. Results: A total of 152 participants, 52% (n=79) of whom were female, with lateral epicondylopathy (n=71), Achilles tendinopathy (n=25), plantar fasciitis (n=23), patellar tendinopathy (n=13), and other tendinopathies were included in the study. Upon examination of the relationship between the level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the severity of complaints due to overuse, no significant differences were found between groups (p=0.935, and p=0.927, respectively). A weak negative correlation was found between weekly exercise duration and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (rs=-0.237; p=0.016). Conclusion: No evidence was found that adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with differences in the severity of tendinopathy complaints. Athletes with high weekly exercise durations do not adopt the Mediterranean diet as an optimal dietary approach.

ATUAÇÃO DA ENFERMAGEM EM SAÚDE ESPORTIVA: CUIDADOS ESSENCIAIS PARA ATLETAS PARALÍMPICOS COM LESÃO MEDULAR E PARALISIA CEREBRAL

This article explores the role of nursing in the external sports health of Paralympic athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI) and cerebral palsy (CP), emphasizing the importance of specific care for their well-being and performance. Through a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals and athletes, along with a literature review to identify nursing practices that meet the unique needs of these athletes. Findings reveal that nursing plays an essential role in supporting both the physical and emotional health of athletes, with guidelines encompassing medication administration, chronic condition management, and complication prevention. Likewise, nursing professionals face unique challenges, such as monitoring and adapting health practices according to the demands of Paralympic competitions. The study indicates the need for continuous development in training and personalized resources to enable nursing to effectively contribute to comprehensive and humane care for athletes, enhancing interdisciplinary as essential to improving sports care.

Advancing athlete safety through real-time ECG monitoring for enhanced cardiovascular health in sports performance

This research paper explores the implementation and efficacy of real-time electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring systems for athletes, emphasizing their potential to significantly enhance safety and performance in sports settings. By utilizing advanced ECG technology, the study investigates how continuous, real-time heart rate and rhythm monitoring can aid in the immediate detection of cardiovascular anomalies during high-intensity activities. The research methodology incorporates the deployment of portable ECG devices in a controlled experimental setup, analyzing data from athletes during training sessions and competitive events. Results from the study highlight the system's ability to provide swift and accurate cardiac assessments, thereby enabling timely medical interventions. Moreover, the paper discusses the technical challenges associated with real-time ECG monitoring, such as signal interference and data accuracy, and addresses privacy and ethical considerations concerning the continuous collection of health data. The discussion extends to the implications of integrating such technology within sports medicine, suggesting that while the systems offer substantial benefits in monitoring and preventing cardiac issues, they also necessitate rigorous standards for data security and ethical oversight. The conclusion advocates for a balanced approach to the adoption of these technologies, proposing future research directions that focus on enhancing system reliability and integrating artificial intelligence to predict potential health risks proactively. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse in sports health technology by providing a comprehensive analysis of real-time ECG monitoring as a transformative tool for athlete healthcare management.

Finding a way in and making it stick: an exploration of chiropractor experiences working in team-oriented elite sport practice settings

Interprofessional healthcare teams have become the benchmark for optimising athlete health and performance in high-stakes sports. Despite a history of utility as provider partners, chiropractors are currently a relatively underutilised...