Sport Modality Research Articles

Tenascin-C-Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 Phenotype and the Risk of Tendinopathy in High-Performance Athletes: A Case–Control Study

Background/Objectives: Tendon structure is predominantly composed of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and genetic variants in non-collagenous ECM components may influence susceptibility to tendinopathy. We investigated the potential influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in fibrillin-2 (FBN2), tenascin-C (TNC), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3) on the tendon regeneration failure phenotype and impact on the susceptibility to tendinopathy in Brazilian high-performance athletes. Methods: This case–control study was conducted with 397 high-performance athletes from different sports modalities (197 tendinopathy cases and 200 controls), and they were analyzed by validated TaqManTM SNP genotyping assays of the SNPs FBN2 (rs331079), TNC (rs2104772), and MMP3 (rs591058). Results: Out of the 197 tendinopathy cases, 63% suffered from chronic tendon pain and 22% experienced more than three episodes of disease manifestation. The TNC-rs2104772-A allele was significantly associated with tendinopathy (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.8), while athletes carrying the MMP3-rs591058-T allele were linked to an increased risk of more episodes of disease manifestation (OR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1–2.8). The TNC-MMP3 tendon regeneration failure phenotype (TNC-A/MMP3-T) was associated with an increased risk of tendinopathy (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–2.0) and episodes of disease manifestation (OR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.2–3.5). Athletes with tendinopathy who had the TNC-A/MMP3-T interaction were more prone to experiencing more than three disease exacerbations (OR: 4.3; 95% CI: 1.8–10.5) compared to TNC-A/TNC-C. Conclusions: This study suggests that rs2104772 and rs591058 SNPs could be involved in the tendon regeneration failure phenotype and may influence the molecular mechanism related to the regulation of the tendon ECM during training workload.

Role of the ACE I/D Polymorphism in Selected Public Health-Associated Sporting Modalities: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The ACE I/D polymorphism has been suggested to be associated with multiple chronic diseases and sports modalities, which has public health implications for global populations and sport performance. This updated review aims to strengthen the association and identify sporting disciplines that are most influenced by the ACE gene polymorphism using a meta-analysis approach. Methods: Published studies on the association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and elite endurance and power were collected until 15 June 2024. The studies on public health-associated sports like running, swimming, and cycling were systematically reviewed following pre-agreed criteria, and a meta-analysis was carried out using different genetic models. Results: A total of 137 studies were identified in the literature search and screened. There was a significant association between elite endurance and the ACE II genotype compared with healthy inactive controls (OR, 1.54; 95%CI, 1.24–1.91) and elite power athletes (OR = 1.56; 95%CI = 1.07–2.28). Specifically, runners and triathletes were associated with the II genotype compared with controls (OR = 1.76; 95%CI = 1.26–2.47; p-value = 0.001 and OR = 2.69; 95%CI = 1.15–6.32, p-value = 0.023, respectively). Additionally, endurance swimmers were associated with the II genotype compared with short-distance, power swimmers (OR = 2.27; 95%CI = 1.49–3.45; p-value < 0.001). Conclusion: The meta-analysis results confirm and strengthen the association between elite endurance and the ACE I/D polymorphism in different sporting modalities, which may have implications for public health and sports participation.

Values Scale for Positive Youth Development in Sport.

Adolescence is a period of special significance for the development of personal and social values. Positive adolescent development (PYD) can be an ideal perspective from which to promote values in young people through their sports practice. The aim of the study was to adapt and analyse the measurement properties of the Values Scale for Positive Youth Development for use in the context of sport in young athletes. A total of 599 adolescents, competitors of different sports modalities, participated in the study. Confirmatory factor analysis and reliability and invariance analyses were performed. The results confirmed a good model fit, with adjustment indexes (CFI, GFI and AGFI) above 0.90 and error (RMSEA and SRMR) below 0.08. The factor loadings above 0.50 were obtained for all items. Adequate reliability of the scales was also confirmed, between 0.72 and 0.89, and gender, age and sport invariance were confirmed. In conclusion, the analysed scale is a valid and reliable instrument with adequate psychometric properties, which makes it an appropriate assessment tool to be used in sports contexts, based on the positive adolescent development approach.

ENGLISH

Introduction: CrossFit® is an sport modality that involves high-impact and intense exercise, gymnastic movements and weightlifting, whose practice has achieved great popularity in recent years, despite the high prevalence of urinary or fecal incontinence (UI e FI) associated to this practice. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to understand the impact of CrossFit® on pelvic floor dysfunction compared to other exercise modalities. Material and method: Following PRISMA (Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines, a search was conducted in scientific databases. A total of 7 studies out of the 53 obtained were qualitatively evaluated and selected for the systematic review. Results: Stress UI seemed to be greater in female CrossFit® participants, than in female kickboxing, bootcamp, aerobic exercise and no CrossFit® practitioners, and also in comparison to sedentary women (P<0.05). Running was suggested to produced higher FI than CrossFit® (P<0.001), while no differences were observed in intra-abdominal pressure and pelvic floor contraction capacity through pelvic examination between female CrossFit® participants and women who practice light exercise, nonCrossFit® practitioners and sedentary women (P<0.05). Conclusion: CrossFit® practice appears to favor IU in a greater extent than other exercise modalities but not FI which seem to be more prevalent with running practice, although differences between exercise modalities were not observed through direct examination of pelvic floor contraction. Further studies are needed to clarify these findings, defining more accurately the assessment instruments, influencing factors and control groups.

Effect of Autoregulation resistance training on repetition maximum resistance training periodization: A mini review

Repetition maximum regimes, including the Delorme method, repetition maximum, strength zone, hypertrophy zone, local muscular endurance zone, and autoregulation progression resistance model training for the trained resistance population manipulate autoregulation. These are repetition maximum performance components; however, performance level determination of resistance training working has been cleared on autoregulation progression exercise condition. Auto-regulated repetition maximum strategies comprehensively strength-hypertrophy-endurance-power lower-upper compartment muscular synchronization method, for future research reported that repetition maximum ranges adjusted for resistance zone principal stages. This report's knowledge is that autoregulation resistance training is limited to repetition reserve periodization, multiple set and difference interval rests planning, velocity-based transition force detection, and one repetition maximum strength performance. In this methodology, experimental research included performing different autoregulation resistance training strategies, methodologic risk no, priority results obtained from the experimental trial, no limitation journal, and participation. Accordingly, this report concluded that one experimental strength performance, velocity-based randomization condition, and manipulated repetition working session increased the maximum strength periodization for time-dependent micro and maximal strength-force macro periodization. In conclusion, autoregulation resistance training periodization has not been clear on periodic resistance training setups that properly enhance strength and condition for sports performance and exercise selection non-linear and linear weekly periodization in different sport modalities and resistance training individuals.

Spielen für den Frieden: ein Scoping-Review über Sportprogramme als Botschafter des Friedensvermittler

AbstractThe quest for peace and stability in contemporary society, particularly in conflict-affected regions, is of vital importance. In the 21st century, sport has evolved beyond its traditional role of entertainment and competition to become a powerful force for change. Its ability to bring people together, overcome cultural barriers and promote universal values makes it an effective vehicle for promoting peace and coexistence. Despite the undeniable potential of sport as a social bridge between divided communities, previous studies have not specifically addressed the concept of peace. In addition, researchers may need information on existing programs for study, replication or improvement. This study aims to provide an overview of programs that use sport to promote peace. Following the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA, databases such as Scopus, PubMed, SciELO and EBSCO were searched. Two reviewers independently performed a thorough selection, including 17 manuscripts. The predominant methodology in these studies was qualitative. Within this context, most of the experiences recovered took place in Colombia, with soccer being the most used sport modality in such programs. These programs are presented as a tool to promote peace in diverse contexts of conflict, violence and community division, and their capacity to be instrumentalized for peaceful purposes is remarkable, even surpassing the capacity of States to regulate and resolve conflicts.

Sports Performance Analysis of Wheelchair Basketball Players Considering Functional Classification

Wheelchair basketball (WB) is a sport modality adapted for people with disabilities who present functional classification (FC) according to their mobility, from 1.0 for players with lesser functional capacity up to 4.5 for great mobility and trunk control players. This study aimed to analyze and compare the external load (EL) and the internal load (IL) of the WB players according to their FC in 5 × 5 simulation game tasks. The main objective of this task was to develop a simulated game in which two teams of five players faced each other to resemble the physical demands of an official match. The development of these tasks allowed for the players to learn the different systems of play, and to improve tactical skills. To conduct the study, 12 (male) national professional WB players (years: 30.7 ± 4.82 and WB experience: 5 ± 1.43) participated in the study and were grouped according to FC. WIMU PROTM devices monitored the EL manufactured by RealTrack Systems in Almería, Spain, and to measure the player’s IL, GarminTM Heart Rate (HR) bands were used (GarminTM in Olathe, KS, USA). The EL variables were divided as kinematic (distance, explosive distance, acc, dec, max. acc, max. dec, average speed, max. speed) and neuromuscular (player load, impact). The IL variables were average HR, max. HR and %max. HR. The main results show that players with greater functional capacity (FC = 4.0) developed higher values in the IL and neuromuscular variables analyzed (p < 0.05), as well as in some kinematic variables like distance, dec and average speed (p < 0.05). This information is relevant because it helps to personalize the training load based on competitive demands and create a gradual and adaptable training program. This information helps athletes to develop better performance during training and prevent injuries caused by overexertion.

Predictive approach of health indicators from the physical activity habits of active youth

The aim of this study is to analyse the relationship between sport modalities practiced, physical fitness, body composition, and healthy habits in an active young population, using a statistical model for prediction. A total of 2255 (1528 boys and 727 girls) children and adolescents aged 6–17 years old who were involved in extracurricular sports from rural areas of Spain participated. Physical fitness was assessed through validated field test and, body composition was determinated using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed by KIDMED questionnaire. The general sport variable was significant in VO2max when comparing the invasion and combat modalities to the reference level (court/net). The sex and age variables revealed significant differences in all physical fitness and body composition parameters. Health parameters, such as hours of additional practice, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and previous experience, showed significant differences. The study concludes that the sport modality variables of training, sex, age, and maturational period have an impact on body composition and fitness parameters in this population. Therefore, by focusing on factors associated with lower values in health indicators, we can prevent health problems during adulthood, such as cardiorespiratory deficits.

Wide Spectrum of Bradyarrhythmias and Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias in Sportsmen: Run Forrest, Run?!

The intricate relationship between sports participation and cardiac arrhythmias is a key focus of cardiovascular research. Physical activity, integral to preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, induces structural, functional, and electrical changes in the heart, potentially triggering arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite the cardiovascular benefits, the optimal exercise amount remains unclear, revealing a J-shaped association between AF and exercise. Endurance athletes, particularly males, face elevated AF risks, influenced by age. Risk factors vary among sports modalities, with unique physiological responses in swim training potentially elevating AF risk. Clinical management of AF in athletes necessitates a delicate balance between rhythm control, rate control, and anticoagulation therapy. Sport-induced bradyarrhythmias, including sinus bradycardia and conduction disturbances, are prevalent among athletes. Managing bradycardia in athletes proves challenging due to its complex and not fully understood pathophysiology. Careful consideration is required, particularly in symptomatic cases, where pacemaker implantation may be necessary for sinus node dysfunction. Although pacing is recommended for specific atrioventricular (AV) blocks, milder forms often prevail without restricting sports participation. This review explores the nuanced relationship between exercise and tachy- and bradyarrhythmia in athletes, addressing the challenges clinicians face when optimizing patient care in this distinctive population.

Exploring athletes’ gendered views of coaches and their impact of coach competency ratings

This study draws on social role theory, role congruity theory, and the black sheep effect to explore athletes’ gendered perceptions of coach competence. The study relied on a sample of 308 New Zealand athletes across sports levels and modalities who completed an online survey. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four vignettes, in which coach gender (female vs. male) and coaching style (communal vs. agentic) were manipulated, and athlete gender was considered. The results show that male and female coaches did not receive significantly different coach competency scores (relational and strategic competencies), that a communal coaching style was linked to higher ratings in both relational and strategic competencies, and that the interplay of athlete gender, coach gender, and gender conforming/non-conforming coaching style did not significantly affect coach competence scores. However, participants’ comments to the open-ended question presented at the end of the survey suggest that athletes still hold gendered views of coaching competence at the elite level. We discuss the research and practical implications of our findings.

Effects of bi-hemispheric anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on soccer player performance: a triple-blinded, controlled, and randomized study.

The search for increased performance and physical performance are linked to the use of ergogenic resources. The vertical jump is one of the measures commonly used to evaluate the performance of lower limbs in athletes. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive, safe, economically viable technique that can modulate cortical excitability, which can influence the increase in the performance of athletes in general. This study aimed to investigate whether the use of tDCS on the primary motor cortex (M1) improves the performance of soccer players. A cross-sectional study was conducted. Twenty-seven players were randomized into three groups: Active tDCS group (n = 9), Sham group (n = 9), and control group (n = 9). Stimulation was applied at 2 mA for 15 min using a cephalic mount. Visual Pain Scale (VAS) and Subjective Recovery Scale (SRS) were monitored before and after tDCS. In addition, the participants performed the Countermovement Jump (CMJ) before and after the stimulation intercalated with Heart Rate (HR) and Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE CR-10). No differences were found in any of the performance variables analyzed (p > 0.05) nor in the responses of HR (p > 0.05), RPE (p > 0.05), VAS (p > 0.05), and SRS (p > 0.05) between groups. The tDCS in M1 did not change the performance of the vertical jump, and there was no improvement in the subjective scales. New studies should also be developed with different stimulus intensities in different cortical areas and sports modalities.

Genetic Variations in Susceptibility to Traumatic Muscle Injuries and Muscle Pain among Brazilian High-Performance Athletes.

Traumatic muscle injuries (TMIs) and muscle pain (MP) negatively impact athletes' performance and quality of life. Both conditions have a complex pathophysiology involving the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Yet, the existing data are scarce and controversial. To provide more insights, this study aimed to investigate the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously linked to athletic status with TMI and MP after exercise among Brazilian high-performance athletes from different sports modalities (N = 345). The impact of important environmental determinants was also assessed. From the six evaluated SNPs (ACTN3 rs1815739, FAAH rs324420, PPARGC1A rs8192678, ADRB2 rs1042713, NOS3 rs1799983, and VDR rs731236), none was significantly associated with TMI. Regarding MP after exercise, ACTN3 rs1815739 (CC/CT vs. TT; adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.90; 95% confidence interval (95%Cl), 1.01-3.57) and FAAH rs324420 (AA vs. AC/CC; aOR = 2.30; 95%Cl, 1.08-4.91) were independent predictors according to multivariate binomial analyses adjusted for age (≥23 vs. <23 years), sex (male vs. female), and tobacco consumption (yes vs. no). External validation is warranted to assess the predictive value of ACTN3 rs1815739 and FAAH rs324420. This could have implications for prophylactic interventions to improve athletes' quality of life.

Analysis of Socio-Emotional Competencies as a Key Dimension for Sustainability in Colombian Elite Athletes

Socio-emotional, cognitive, and behavioral learning are emphasized by UNESCO as being essential to the advancement of sustainability. Sports are big events that have a big social, economic, and environmental impact. This study examined the socio-emotional competitiveness of elite Colombian Olympic and Paralympic athletes in relation to their academic background, gender, age, sport type, and modality. Methods: Colombian elite athletes who were members of the “Support to the Excellence Coldeportes Athlete” participated in the study. The total population studied included 334 Colombian elite athletes: mean age 27.10 ± 6.57 years old with 13.66 ± 6.37 years practicing his/her sports modality. The socio-emotional competencies of the participants were assessed using the Socio-emotional Competencies Scale (SECS). Results: In the areas of conflict resolution, emotional control, self-awareness, and interpersonal regulation, men performed better than women. Athletes under 25 years old showed more self-consciousness. Sports, whether individual or team, did not differ. Higher levels of drive, self-awareness, cooperation, and emotional control were displayed by Paralympians. Athletes with a university education demonstrated more drive, self-awareness, empathy, and collaboration. Every competency showed a favorable correlation. Conclusion: Tailored interventions aimed at enhancing socio-emotional functioning are essential for sustainability and should consider variations in gender, age, level of education, and handicap status. The article aims to facilitate and optimize the creation of specific programs to help Olympic and Paralympic athletes in their preparation through socio-emotional competences.

New hand dynamometer activforce isometric muscle activation on single joint muscle force of volleyball players

Isometric muscle activation of single joint to volleyball players is critic on sport performance to produce potential muscle force, however isometric measurement limited in isokinetic muscle activity measurement of volleyball players. Indeed, hand dynamometers commonly use in various body isometric force. Professional volleyball players age 16.23 ± 0.59 yr, body mass 60.22 ± 4.64 kg, hight 1.69 ± 0.04 m participated to peak and average isometric force measurement over 8 week pre and post test. Accordingly, single joint muscle force production measurement of volleyball players tested on isometric muscle activation using a new hand dynamometer activforce 2. Isometric muscle activation tests consisted of 24 body region from upper and lower compartment. For this isometric muscle action test detected on peak force outcomes (SEM: 37.90; CV: 1.79) and average force outcomes (SEM: 33.62; CV: 1.84). The high isometric muscle action joint loading performing mechanical test application recommended on athletic population to using isometric potential high contraction model by strength training performance separately in-season and off-season measurement modeling. Conclusion, peak and average force production progressive isometric modeling of volleyball athletes worked to current sport–health condition. As out, conclusion must be advanced isometric force measurement proper work in sport-specific tasks. The proper isometric force must be repeat sport performance outcome in different sport modalities.

Is menstrual cycle misunderstanding a bias for ergogenic aids use? A cross sectional study

The complex process of hormonal release and interaction of the Menstrual Cycle (MC) seems to impact the athlete's physical and psychological state. Objective: 1) investigate female athletes' understanding of MC, including its various phases and their potential effects on sports performance, 2) analyze the athletes' self-perception of sports performance during the different phases of MC and 3) identify possible ergogenic strategies (nutritional, mechanical, pharmacological, and/or psychological) adopted by athletes for alleviating premenstrual and menstrual symptoms in order to improve sports performance. Design: This exploratory cross-sectional study involved 105 competitive athletes, from 12 different sport modalities, from regional to international competitive level. Setting: Participants completed a survey assessing contraceptive use, knowledge regarding MC phases and perceptions of sports performance at different phases of MC as well as the adopted strategies to alleviate pre and menstrual symptoms to enhance sport performance. Results: Although 65.8% of the athletes reported knowing the MC phases, only 53.5% were able to identify them. Also, 60% of the athletes feel unmotivated or unwilling to exercise and 72.4% feel tired, indisposed, or self-reported worse sports performance during a certain phase of the MC, being follicular phase the most cited. Conclusions: The use of hormonal contraceptive methods, fatigue/discomfort and the number of weekly workouts seem to influence the use of nutritional aids. Competitive athletes have a limited understanding of MC, even considering that it has a detrimental effect on sports performance, especially during follicular phase. Feelings of tiredness, indisposition, or worse sports performance are the most common reasons for nutritional aids use.

Comparative analysis of patellar tendon, achilles tendon and plantar fascia structure in indoor and outdoor football players: a novel cross-sectional pilot study

Different sport modalities were associate with tendon adaptation or even tendon disturbances, such as volleyball, soccer or basketball. Purpose: the aim of the present study was to determine de difference between indoor and outdoor football players on patellar tendon (PT), Achilles tendon (AT), plantar fascia (FP) and Hoffa’s fat pad thickness assessed with ultrasound imaging (USI). A cross-sectional study was developed with a total sample of 30 soccer players divided in two groups: outdoor group (n = 15) and indoor group (n = 15). The thickness of PT, AT, PF and Hoffa’s fat pad has been assessed with USI. Hoffa’s fat pad reported significant differences for the left side between groups (P = 0.026). The rest of variables did not show any significant difference (P < 0.05). The ultrasonography assessment of the thickness of the PT, AT and PF did not show differences between outdoor and indoor football players. Hoffa’s fat pad resulted showed a significant decrease for outdoor soccer players with respect futsal players. Thus, it can be considered that the load stimuli received in both soccer players were not enough to produce structural adaptations in PT, AT and PF tissues.

Physical assessment for athletes with visual impairments: Perspectives based on sonorous and tactile stimuli

Visual impairment is one of the disabilities that is eligible within the Paralympic system to participate in competitions in specific sports modalities. Competitiveness has grown over the years and athletes are increasingly looking for strategies to maximize their performance, especially related to physical capabilities important for specific tasks in each competition sport. In the direction of this aspect, evaluation of the physical performance of athletes with visual impairment is a relevant factor, mainly because the lack of vision can cause some insecurities when carrying out tests involving high-intensity tasks, which are a part of sports for athletes with visual impairment. In this sense, the current article presents some strategies for adapting physical tests and their prospective applications in athletes with visual impairment, as well as some paths of investigation that can be followed by adaptations based on sound and tactile stimuli, or both together.

Study of the anthropometric indices of muscle mass in different sports modalities of all genders.

Muscle mass is one of the main components of an athlete's body weight. Its development is related to the biomechanical gesture and the strength required to physical activity. The aim of the study was to assess musculoskeletal development by means of anthropometric indices in sports with different demands. The sample comprised 780 subjects (58.2% male), age 23.8 ± 4.7 years. Six sports were included: olympic shooting, long-distance running, hockey, kayaking, artistic gymnastics, and weightlifting. Muscle mass (MM) was estimated by Lee's equation (Lee et al. 2000), in kg, as a % of weight, in kg in relation to height squared (MMI, kg/m2) and by allometric muscle mass index (AMMI, kg/mb, Canda 2022) relative to height (H), arm span (A-S), sitting height (S-T), biacromial breadth (BIAC) and tibial height (T-H). The mean, male vs. female, was: MM, 33.6 ± 4.4 kg vs. 23.1 ± 2.8 kg; 45.9 ± 3.7% vs. 39.7 ± 3.7%; MMI, 10.92 ± 1.35 vs. 8.63 ± 0.89; AMMIH 12.92 ± 1.57 vs. 11.04 ± 1.12; AMMIA-S, 14. 00 ± 1.61 vs. 12.10 ± 1.24; AMMIS-T, 38.69 ± 4.41 vs. 28.96 ± 2.88; AMMIBIAC, 154.76 ± 15.08 vs. 95.89 ± 9.23; AMMIT-H, 79.14 ± 9.93 vs. 54.65 ± 5.92. Males achieved higher values (p < 0.01) in all variables and modalities. ANOVA (p < 0.001) gave differences between modalities in all indices. Weightlifting had the highest mean in kg and indices, while the highest muscle percentage was found among artistic gymnastics. The lowest mean in kg and indices was in long distance races and in percentage in Olympic shooting. Allometric indices can be useful tools for the assessment and estimation of muscle mass regardless of the size of the athlete and in relation to the modality practiced.

FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism: Biological Pathways, Impact on Elite Athletic Performance and Insights for Sport Medicine.

Gene variation linked to physiological functions is recognised to affect elite athletic performance by modulating training and competition-enabling behaviour. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been investigated as a good candidate for drug targeting, and recently, its single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 was reported to be associated with athletic performance. Given the implications, the biological pathways of this genetic polymorphism linked to elite athletic performance, considering sport type, psychological traits and sports injuries, need to be dissected. Thus, a narrative review of the literature concerning the biological mechanisms of this SNP was undertaken. In addition to its role in athletic performance, FAAH rs324420 is also involved in important mechanisms underlying human psychopathologies, including substance abuse and neural dysfunctions. However, cumulative evidence concerning the C385A variant is inconsistent. Therefore, validation studies considering homogeneous sports modalities are required to better define the role of this SNP in elite athletic performance and its impact on stress coping, pain regulation and inflammation control.

The use of mobile solutions for biomechanical assessment in combat sports: A narrative review

New technologies have amplified the possibilities for processing and incorporating data and scientific methods in algorithms through the integration of the use of mobile technology and a wide range of wearables that allow acquisition metrics in real-time. These technologies arise as a possible alternative to supply market demand and to present practical solutions to problems that coaches and athletes face in their daily routines. Concerning biomechanical assessment in combat sports (i.e. reaction time, velocity, and force), the literature is scarce regarding studies that carried out surveys of new assessments and monitoring technologies, with solutions for coaches and athletes. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate, through a literature review, mobile technologies available on the market for biomechanical analyses in combat sports modalities. Significant growth has been observed in the number of studies involving mobile technologies with practical tools for biomechanical assessment in combat sports athletes. However, only seven technological proposals presented scientific reliability studies, and six assessed validity, showing the necessity of more original articles to investigate scientific validation. As a suggestion, a flowchart is presented with operational guidelines for the research and development of new technologies for biomechanical assessment and monitoring in combat sports in real-time.