Fitness Professionals Research Articles

Fitness and Sports Academy Integration Web Application

In the modern health and fitness landscape, gyms and athletes face unique challenges in managing schedules, tracking workouts, and fostering engagement. Existing systems often lack comprehensive tools to connect gym owners and customers effectively, impeding workout management and client retention. This paper presents a gym management and athlete engagement web application, developed with the MERN stack and leveraging Firebase for real-time data updates. By incorporating features such as personalized workout tracking, feedback systems, and integrated payment processing, this application aims to enhance gym operations and user experience. The research also explores the application of machine learning algorithms for injury prevention and personalized recommendations. Evaluation of the platform demonstrates significant improvements in user engagement, workout tracking, and gym management. This study highlights the potential of technology-driven solutions to address fitness industry challenges, creating scalable systems for gym management, athlete engagement, and personalized fitness plans. In the era of digital fitness, gym users, trainers, and gym owners increasingly rely on technology to track progress, foster community, and manage services. FitConnect aims to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive fitness networking platform with real-time workout tracking, role-based functionalities, and payment integration. Unlike conventional fitness apps, FitConnect introduces a collaborative ecosystem where users can connect with trainers, join gym sessions, and manage subscriptions efficiently. Leveraging scalable architecture and user-friendly interfaces, this project combines essential fitness tracking with networking capabilities to create an integrated solution for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike. This paper explores the design, development, and deployment strategies used to create this platform and assesses its impact on improving user engagement, goal tracking, and service management..

Enhancing Untrained Football Referees’ Strength, Speed, and Endurance through A Mix-training Programme

Given the distance, energy consumption and football referees’ physical challenge during matches, it is crucial that their speed, endurance, and strength should be enhanced. It is in this perspective that this One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design quasi-experimental research, aims to (a) validate a mixed-training program to enhance Primus League football referees’ speed, endurance, and strength. The research also aims to (b) gather evidence on the program reliability and effectiveness. The sample consisted of 15 Primus League football referees (n=15) who attended a five-week training program with sessions held 3 times per week. During an expert panel, eight Fitness and Vitality Enhancement (FVE) professionals validated the program and later the replicability estimation indicated the training program related tests’ high reliability (ICC=0.77). The normality assumption was verified, and the results obtained through paired-sample t test, with related sig.<0.025, indicated that the intervention program effectiveness, except the speed component for which there was not enough evidence of the referees’ improvement. With bigger sample sizes, it is recommended that the relation between the referees’ age, body mass, and speed be established to shed light on the reason of speed component statistical insignificance.

An Evaluation of the Mindless to Mindful (M2M) Intervention on Exercise Self-Regulation and Fat Mass Loss: A Case Study.

To evaluate the impact of the Mindless to Mindful intervention on fat mass loss in adults. This was a single-group case study. A fitness center delivered by certified fitness professionals. 222 adults who participated in M2M as a team or as individuals, and 195 completed the entire intervention (attrition rate = 12.16%). M2M was an 8-week behavior change intervention with tailored coaching, group moderate-to-vigorous exercise (MVE) and self-regulation techniques. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Jackson-Pollock 4-site body fat measure, brief self-control scale, self-compassion scale, and a daily exercise log. Paired sample t-tests were used to determine differences within groups and a one-way ANOVA was used to determine the differences between groups (P-value <.05). Participants engaged in an average of 4.88h (SD = 2.04) of MVE per week. There was a significant decrease in fat mass (M = £7.65; P < .001) and increase in self-control (t = 6.248, P < .001, d = .300) and self-compassion (t = 4.314, P < .001, d = .165). Self-monitoring, group exercise, and individualized coaching can promote self-regulation and fat mass loss.

A Systematic Review of Interventions That Aim to Reduce Implicit and Explicit Weight Biases among Fitness Professionals

Despite the high prevalence of weight bias among fitness professionals, few resources are currently available to educate fitness professionals about weight bias and no systematic review of weight bias interventions has been conducted among this population. This paper therefore reviewed extant weight bias interventions for fitness professionals to inform future weight bias-reduction initiatives. Seven reports comprising six studies were identified from inception until April 2024. Findings showed small to large improvements in explicit weight bias, particularly on the weight control/blame component. No improvements were observed in implicit weight bias. The results show an urgent need to bridge the gap between the resources currently available in the fitness industry and those developed by the scientific community and to develop novel multifaceted interventions that draw from multiple theories of attitude and behavior change to effectively tackle weight bias among fitness professionals.

Effect of strength training in young people with Down Syndrome: a systematic review

Background: Down syndrome is a condition caused by a genetic anomaly that impacts the physical and intellectual development of individuals. A significant number adopt a sedentary lifestyle, potentially due to such health conditions or the lack of guidance and support from healthcare and fitness professionals. Objective: To analyze the effects of strength training in young individuals with Down Syndrome. Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the recommendations outlined by PRISMA and registered on the PROSPERO platform (xxxxxxxxxxxxxx). The PICOS acronym was used to define eligibility criteria. The databases searched included MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science using the following phrase: (((resistance training[Title/Abstract]) OR (strength training[Title/Abstract])) AND (down syndrome[Title/Abstract])) OR (Trisomy 21[Title/Abstract]). Results: 911 articles were retrieved. Following screening, three randomized clinical trials meeting the specified criteria were included for analysis, comprising a total of 114 participants, with 57 in each group. The included articles were deemed to have low risk of bias according to the RoB 2.0 tools and achieved a minimum score of 12 points on the TESTEX tool. Conclusions: Strength training can significantly improve muscle strength in children and young individuals with Down syndrome, promoting functional independence and social integration.

Exercise With Unstable Objects: A Descriptive Survey Among Health Care and Fitness Professionals

Exercise with unstable objects is a popular intervention used by health care and fitness professionals. Understanding different professional beliefs and usage patterns might provide insight for future research and development of evidence-based guidelines. The purpose of this survey study was to document the perceptions, beliefs, and the use of exercise with unstable objects among health care and fitness professionals in the United States. Six hundred and sixteen respondents completed the survey. Most respondents used unstable objects for musculoskeletal postinjury fitness/return to performance (72%). Most believed the main therapeutic effects were enhanced motor control (88%), balance (86%), and somatosensory (85%) function. Most reported using the foam pad (80%) and BOSU (84%). The most used subjective measure was the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. Most respondents used single limb stance (85%) to measure static motor control and the single leg squat assessment (51%) for dynamic motor control. Respondents used variables such as dynamic movement, repetition and sets, and time during training. Respondents considered recent injury or surgery and neurological or vestibular conditions as the top precautions. Respondents considered acute injury or surgery and neurological or vestibular conditions as the top contraindications. This survey provides insight into health care and fitness professionals perceptions, beliefs, and use of exercise with unstable objects.

Rebel Patients and Caregivers Podcast – Part II

Inspiring patients are creating solutions and setting new standards for what’s possible in health and outcomes. In Part II of THMT’s Rebel Health podcast, anyone working inside healthcare who is fed up with the status quo, and ready to create change, should listen. The discussion is raw, bold and honest – all to improve health outcomes, keep people safe, find effective treatments. If you need an ally and strategies, Rebels are standing by to help including Telehealth and Medicine Today. Discussion Topics Outlining steps for patients, caregivers, and survivors to tap into the innovative ecosystem outside of traditional healthcare. How healthcare has fallen short in addressing the needs of patients with rare conditions? What are some of the challenges that clinicians are facing when they come across patients who have rare or unexplained conditions? Has mainstream healthcare abandoned its workforce? The evolution successful early grassroots groups and how they became part of mainstream medicine? Has a lack of transformation in healthcare (clipboards, fax machines, and retro software) influenced the patient-led revolution and helped expedite progress in this space? Where do healthcare professionals fit in this revolution? Thoughts on actions listeners can take? Where will this revolution take us in the next 5-10 years? Begin the learning journey in Part 1 of this podcast series on Telehealth and Medicine Today open access peer reviewed journal here.

Understanding fitness professionals’ weight biases and uptake of weight-inclusive practices: Findings from a mixed-methods survey.

Understanding fitness professionals’ weight biases and uptake of weight-inclusive practices: Findings from a mixed-methods survey.

What is the physical condition profile of elderly women? Research looking at the level of flexibility

Background and Study Aim. Age changes are believed to be one of the factors affecting a person's physical abilities. Decreased physical capacity will result in some direct interference in doing everyday activities. The research has made important contributions to the field of health and fitness of the elderly by providing empirical data on the physical condition and flexibility abilities of older women. Material and Methods. The research uses observational and cross-sectional designs. The sample in this study was 17 elderly women aged over 60. Data collection techniques use body height measurements using stadium meters, weight using digital scales and sit and reach to measure flexibility capabilities. Data analysis using the SPSS 22 application. Results. The results showed that the Body Time Index value of 21.6 was in the ideal category and flexibility ability had a value of 11.4 Cm which was in the good category. The findings of this study suggest that despite their old age, most subjects of the study have an ideal IMT and good flexibility, which is a positive indicator of their physical health. Conclusion. This data can be used by health professionals and fitness professionals to create more effective and targeted support programmes, as well as as an initial evaluation of the ability to monitor the progress of a fitness program.

Expert recommendations for an online, fall-prevention exercise program for older adults

ABSTRACT Introduction Uptake of fall-prevention programs by older adults prior to the COVID-19 pandemic was low. We identified a pre-pandemic need to develop an online, fall-prevention exercise program for community-dwelling older adults. Purpose The purpose of this qualitative study was to obtain recommendations from experts on exercise for fall prevention, fall prevention, and online education to inform the development of an online, fall-prevention exercise program for community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older. Methods Three virtual focus groups were held to obtain recommendations from: 1) exercise experts (n = 4) on design of an exercise program intended to reduce falls among community-dwelling older adults, 2) fall-prevention experts (n = 6) on key considerations for fall prevention and transitioning to an online fall-prevention program, and 3) online education experts (n = 5) on online technical/design considerations. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Results Collectively, the experts recommended designing an online program that: 1) contained strengthening, balance, and stretching exercises; 2) was beta tested in older adults; 3) replicated a group dynamic; 4) included an instructional designer; 5) provided tailored feedback to participants; 6) made exercises portable/accessible across devices; 7) offered computer training; 8) monitored safety and exercise performance; 9) included strategies to sustain participant behavior; and 10) was delivered by health or fitness professionals. Conclusion This study generated expert recommendations to inform the development of an online, fall-prevention exercise program. Implementation of these recommendations has the potential to expand the reach of fall-prevention programs and protect the health and safety of older adults in a post-COVID-19 world.

Physical Fitness Test Data Analysis and Training Program Recommendation Based on Machine Learning

Physical fitness is the state of being physically healthy and capable of performing daily tasks with vigor and resilience. Physical fitness and machine learning intersect in various ways, primarily through the use of wearable devices, fitness apps, and data analysis. Wearable fitness trackers equipped with sensors, such as heart rate monitors, accelerometers, and GPS trackers, collect vast amounts of data on individuals' physical activity, sleep patterns, and vital signs. The paper presents an innovative approach to physical fitness assessment and training program recommendation using the Gradient Probabilistic Automated Recommender System with Machine Learning (GPA-RS-ML). This system utilizes machine learning techniques to assess fitness data from individuals and then suggests training programs that are customized to their specific goals and needs. By incorporating gradient values and probabilistic predictions, the GPA-RS-ML algorithm offers a comprehensive and individualized approach to fitness training, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of training interventions. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the GPA-RS-ML system in accurately predicting suitable training programs for participants, considering their unique fitness profiles and preferences. This research contributes to the advancement of automated fitness assessment and recommendation systems, providing a valuable tool for fitness professionals and enthusiasts to optimize fitness outcomes and improve adherence to training regimens.

Psychotherapists' outcome expectations: How are they established?

Therapists' outcome expectations influence the psychotherapy process and outcomes, but little is known about the factors influencing their development. This study explored therapists' experiences with establishing outcome expectations for their patients. The participants were 35 therapists from a public mental health setting, who were interviewed in five different focus groups. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Three themes and 10 subthemes were identified. In Theme 1 (understanding the problem), participants' expectations were influenced by (a) their patients' diagnoses and the diagnostic process, (b) their perceptions of the complexity of the presenting problem, (c) how stable the patients' symptoms and situations were, and (d) whether they experienced familiarity with the patient or the patients' situation. In Theme 2 (the patient's openness to change), participants' expectations were influenced by (a) the patient's stated reason for seeking treatment, (b) the patient's conceptualization of their problem/situation, and (c) their perception of the patient's willingness to invest in the treatment. In Theme 3 (the fit between the therapist and patient), the participants discussed the factors that influenced whether they felt they were a good fit for working with an individual patient and how this perception of personal and professional fit influenced their expectations. We identify several ways that therapists' situational factors and their recognition of the patient through their own past experiences can influence their expectations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Perceptions and beliefs of community-based fitness professionals working with people with disability: a qualitative study

Purpose There are many benefits of sport and exercise however people with disability experience barriers to participation including negative interactions with fitness professionals. To understand this barrier further, this study explored the perceptions of community-based fitness professionals working with people with disability. Materials and methods Thirteen fitness professionals took part in one semi-structured interview. Data were analysed inductively using an interpretive description approach. Results Theme 1, “Understanding your client’s individual needs” highlighted the requirement for fitness professionals to be flexible to the needs of their clients. Theme 2 “You have to have a little bit of the knack” discussed the importance of maintaining a mutually respectful relationship, and the skills required to achieve this. Theme 3 “It needs to be a team approach” called for greater interprofessional collaboration with health professionals. Theme 4 “The barriers of gym culture” explored the negative stigma placed on people with disability in relation to sport and exercise. Theme 5 “Change is needed” highlighted changes required within the fitness industry to better support people with disability. Conclusion To facilitate inclusive service delivery, changes are required within the supports and resources available to fitness professionals thereby allowing them to cater to their diversifying client population.

Progressive Muscular Relaxation Versus Breathing Excercise Techniques to Control Blood Pressure among Mild Preeclamptic Pregnant Women.

Hypertensive disturbances during pregnancy are the leading cause of maternal and fetal death; unfortunately, no effective treatment exists. Therefore, interventions that reduce the likelihood of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy are required. This study aimed to see how Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) compared to breathing exercise techniques affected Blood Pressure (BP) levels among mildly preeclamptic pregnant women. A convenience sample was used in a quasi-experimental study of 75 mild preeclamptic pregnant women in the Obstetrical Outpatient Clinics at the Suez Canal University Hospital in Ismailia, Egypt. They were divided into three groups: study group [I]: the deep breathing exercise group; study group [II]: the PMR group; and study group [III]: the control group. Data were collected using two methods: an interviewing information collection tool and a physiological measurement tool. There was a statistical significant difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after six weeks of training among intervention groups (PMR and breathing excercise technique with p value 0.001 for both groups) compered to contol group. However, there was no statistical difference in BP (systolic or diastolic) after two weeks of intervention among the three groups. PMR and breathing techniques could effectively control BP in pregnancy complicated by mild preeclampsia. Both techniques could be introduced in routine antenatal care for women diagnosed with mild preeclampsia. Health and fitness professionals should focus more on preparing and delivering various sports programs incorporating various muscle relaxations and breathing techniques.

Analysis of the Effectiveness of High-Intensity Interval Training Methods in Improving Basketball Players Fitness

This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in improving the fitness of basketball players. Employing a literature review methodology, this study explores recent findings related to the application of HIIT in the context of basketball sports. The literature analysis involves searching and screening various scientific articles covering aspects such as improved cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, time efficiency, and safety considerations. The results indicate that HIIT holds significant potential in enhancing the cardiorespiratory fitness of basketball players, with positive effects on aerobic capacity and cardiorespiratory endurance. Furthermore, HIIT has also shown a positive impact on increasing muscle strength and endurance. The effectiveness of HIIT can be observed in its time efficiency, as this high-intensity training program can deliver significant results in a shorter time compared to conventional training methods. However, the study also highlights the importance of considering the risks and safety considerations in implementing HIIT, emphasizing the need for an individualized approach and careful monitoring. Thus, this research provides a solid foundation for the development of more focused and effective training programs to enhance the performance of basketball players. The practical implications of these findings can assist coaches and fitness professionals in designing exercise programs tailored to the specific needs of basketball players, taking into account cardiorespiratory aspects, muscle strength, time efficiency, and safety.

The effect of the conventional deadlift and Romanian deadlift on muscle activation and joint angles at submaximal intensity

For fitness professionals delivering strength and conditioning programmes and recreational athletes designing their own programmes, exercise selection and an appropriate loading stimulus over time are the cornerstones of an effective resistance training programme. The conventional deadlift (CD), a compound, closed-chain movement, is prescribed to increase the strength of the posterior chain and the quadriceps. The Romanian Deadlift (RDL) is an isolated knee variation of the CD, whereby the knee angle is stable throughout the movement (Lee et al., 2018, J Exer Sci Fit, 16, 87-93). The RDL is a key movement in weightlifting training and is a commonly used developer of posterior chain muscles (Weaver and Kerksick, 2017, Strength Cond J, 39, 85-90). Studies comparing the CD and RDL are limited. Using surface EMG 2D motion analysis of the lower limb, we aim to determine if (i) biceps femoris activation is greater than the vastus lateralis during the RDL, (ii) there is a higher activation of both vastus lateralis and biceps femoris during the CD, and (ii) whether an injury is more likely to occur during a CD or RDL using the angles and range of motion (ROM) of the hip, knee, and ankle. 15 recreationally active adults with experience with the CD and RDL were recruited. Surface EMG sensors were placed on the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris, and markers were placed for 2D motion analysis in the sagittal plane. MVC data were collected for three repetitions of both lifts at 70% RDL 1RM. Five repetitions at 50% RDL 1RM were used for analysis. Statistical analysis was conducted using a paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results show greater activation of the vastus lateralis in the CD than the RDL (P &lt; 0.05) but no difference in the biceps femoris. No differences were found in hip angles during ascent or descent at mid-thigh and knee height (P = 0.343), but there were differences at the bottom position. Knee angles during ascent and descent at the mid-thigh were different (P = 0.027) but not at knee height. No differences at the ankle joint were found at the mid-thigh (P = 0.12), but differences were found at knee height and bottom position. Finally, ROM at the hip, knee, and ankle during ascent and descent were significantly different (P = 0.002). The findings may help fitness professionals and recreational athletes make decisions such as exercise selection, load management, and injury prevention strategies based on the comparative effectiveness and risks of the CD and RDL.

Up for the tackle? The pelvic floor and rugby. A review

AbstractThe pelvic floor and its associated disorders are a unique and often overlooked aspect of women's rugby. This review discusses relevant biopsychosocial considerations specific to the pelvic floor and rugby. Pelvic floor disorders can present at any time across the female lifespan but are more prevalent during pregnancy and postpartum. This is due to the substantial physiological and anatomical changes experienced during pregnancy and vaginal childbirth. Consequently, pelvic floor disorders can impact a player's ability to perform, maintain engagement with, or return to, rugby due to symptoms. Players need to be informed, supported, and guided through focused pelvic floor muscle training to condition the muscles and ‘ready’ them for the varied demands of rugby. Health and fitness professionals should understand the risk of pelvic floor disorders across the female lifespan and screen players for symptoms when supporting them to maintain or return to rugby. Rugby players who are symptomatic of pelvic floor disorders should be signposted to specialist services and/or resources to manage their symptoms. Once engaging in rugby training, ongoing evaluation of player load tolerance and implementation of individualized strategies to support managing rugby‐related loads to the pelvic floor should be considered. Finally, surveillance and research focusing specifically on rugby players and pelvic floor function are needed.

A Strong Approach for Overcoming the FoRE: Fear of Resistance Exercise

Apply It!• A vast majority of adults do not engage in sufficient resistance exercise to achieve health, fitness, and functional benefits.• The Fear of Resistance Exercise, or FoRE, is a unique term that describes a phenomenon observed in individuals who develop an avoidance behavior to resistance exercise due to persistent feelings of worry, apprehension, or misunderstanding.• Leadership from health and fitness professionals can help adults set clear objectives, challenge irrational thoughts, deal with barriers, and adhere to resistance exercises.

EXERCISE &amp; CANCER PROGRAM: A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO PROVIDE PRESCRIPTIVE EXERCISE OUTSIDE OF THE CLINICAL HEALTHCARE SETTING

CASE SETTING This study implemented a standardized exercise program for oncology patients in the Latrobe Valley region of Gippsland, Australia, aiming to assess its potential transferability to other regions. This was undertaken due to a lack of structured services available in Gippsland, limiting patient access to these programs, in which patients having to travel up to 2 hours for treatment in Melbourne. TREATMENT Implementation of a standardized exercise program for oncology patients, developed by a multidisciplinary team of exercise physiologists, oncology health professionals, and leisure centre fitness professionals. Exercise Physiologists conducted initial assessments and patients were placed in either individual, group exercise sessions and/or home-based programs. RESULTS The program demonstrated significant improvements in both physical and psychological well-being. The program has received 73 referrals, of which 48 participants completed initial assessments with an Exercise Physiologist. Of the remaining 25 participants, 2 were discharged to other services due to their location outside the program’s jurisdiction, 18 withdrew or did not attend their appointments, and 5 are currently on the waitlist for assessment. At the time of data collection, 17 participants had completed their reassessments.100% of participants improved on at least one physical test, and all participants improved on one of their subjective measures (fatigue, depression, anxiety, self-worth). Additionally, participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the program’s psycho-social support and the benefits of exercising outside a healthcare setting. REFLECTIONS/LEARNINGS This program successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration between healthcare services and leisure centres in delivering sustainable exercise programs for oncology patients outside of the healthcare setting. It also highlighted the value of providing both physical and psycho-social support, with the inclusion of care coordinators significantly reducing burdens on health services. The program’s success suggests strong potential for transferability to other regions.

Effect of Service-Learning Physical Activity Programs on Kinesiology Students’ Attitudes Toward People With Disabilities

Background: Service-learning (SL) programs have been shown to be effective for college students in developing positive attitudes toward people with disabilities (PWDs). Such positive attitudes are particularly important for Kinesiology (KIN) students as they are trained to become future health and fitness professionals. Purpose: The present study investigated the effect of a 10-week in-person versus virtual SL program on KIN students’ attitudes toward PWD. Methodology/Approach: A pre- postintervention, three-way, analysis of variance was utilized. This 3 × 2 mixed model design was utilized to assess students’ attitudes toward PWD with three independent variables (in-person program, virtual program, and control) on two dependent variables (pre and post). Findings/Conclusions: There was significant Group × Time interaction. The between-group comparison showed a significant increase in Attitudes Toward Disabled Person scale score in the in-person SL group ( p &lt; .05) compared to non-SL group. There were no significant differences in the virtual SL group. Implications: These results indicate that in-person SL is effective for improving students’ attitudes toward PWD, whereas virtual programs may not be as effective as in-person. In-person SL programs for KIN students may positively improve their attitudes toward PWD thus ameliorating interpersonal skills and creating more inclusive health and fitness professionals. KIN programs should consider SL programs with an emphasis on PWDs.