Sports Engineering Aimed at Proposing Novel Sports Performance Techniques and Equipment

Underwater rugby is a contact sport played in deep pools, where fins are essential for effective locomotion. This study compared the effects of two fibreglass fin models, Rocket and Waterway, on nonlinear underwater displacement times in elite players. A crossover study was conducted with 61 elite adult athletes (31 females and 30 males), all with at least 2 years of experience using fibreglass fins. Participants completed the Change of Direction Submerged (CDS) test with both fin types, with a 1-week interval between sessions. Each condition was tested twice per session to reduce intraday variability. Measurement reliability was assessed using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and the Coefficient of Variation (CV). Among males, mean completion times were 6.89 ± 0.45 s (Rocket) and 6.86 ± 0.58 s (Waterway). Among females, times were 7.55 ± 0.73 s (Rocket) and 7.73 ± 0.74 s (Waterway), reflecting a small performance advantage for Rocket fins. Reliability was moderate in both sexes (ICC = 0.523 in males; ICC = 0.636 in females). CV analysis showed greater variability in females: 9.70% (Rocket) and 9.56% (Waterway), versus 6.56% (Rocket) and 8.47% (Waterway) in males. While performance differences were not statistically significant, Rocket fins showed a trend towards better consistency and slightly faster times, particularly in female athletes. These results highlight the potential of fin design to influence performance and support evidence-based selection of equipment in underwater sports. Further research is needed to explore underlying biomechanical and physiological mechanisms.

Ultra‑low loadings of metal-based hybrids enable exceptional fire safety, strength and toughness to epoxy resins for advanced sports equipment

Hand and wrist injuries place a large burden on US emergency departments, and the injury mechanism is often related to consumer products. The purpose of this study is to identify the consumer products most frequently associated with injuries of the hand and wrist that present to US emergency departments and analyze demographic variables and disposition status. The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database was queried for hand and wrist injuries in patients of all ages from 2018 to 2022. Consumer product codes, demographics, injury sustained, diagnosis, and disposition were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Knives accounted for 11% of all injuries, and doors were the next most common consumer product identified (n = 15 827; 5.8%). The highest proportion of injuries occurred in patients ages 15 through 24 (n = 51 900; 19%). The consumer product varied significantly by age group: doors were most common for ages 1 through 9, sports equipment for ages 10 through 14, knives for ages 15 through 80, and floors or stairs for patients older than 80. Discharge disposition was primarily outpatient (n = 257 895; 94%). Age, male sex, stairs, floors, and windows were associated with significantly higher odds of admission. The most common consumer product codes involved in injuries varied significantly between age groups, likely reflecting different common injury mechanisms. Knives were the most common consumer product identified. Patients were more likely to be admitted if older than 65, male, or injured with floor, stairs, or windows.

This paper analyzes the combined effects of acetone vapor treatment and 3D printing process parameters (layer thickness and infill rate) on the hardness and surface roughness of acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) components by using different machine learning and deep learning strategies for the first time in the technical literature. Considering the high-performance materials and aesthetic requirements of manufacturers, post-processing operations are highly critical for 3D-printed samples. ASA is a promising alternative, especially for the structural parts utilized in outdoor conditions like car outer components, electronic part housing, extreme sports equipment, and construction materials. However, it has to sustain hardness features against outer scratching, peeling, and indentations without losing its gloss. Together with the rising competitiveness in the search for a high-performance design with a perfect outer view, the combination of additive manufacturing and machine learning methods was implemented to enhance the hardness and surface quality properties for the first time in the literature. Concordantly, in this study, four different vaporizing durations (15, 45, 90, and 120 min.), three different layer thicknesses (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mm), and three different infill rates (25, 50, and 100%) were determined. According to both experimental and multi-way learning approaches, the results show that the support vector regressor (SVR) combined with one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D-CNNs) was the best approach for predictions. Gradient boosting (GB) and recurrent neural networks (RNNs) may also be preferable for low-error forecasting. Moreover, although there was a positive relationship between the layer thickness/infill rate and Shore D hardness outcomes, the highest levels were obtained at 45 min of vaporizing.

ObjectiveRecess duration and available space are limited. To promote unstructured recess activity in high school from the perspective of time and space utilization, this case study aimed to examine the effects of an unstructured recess intervention involving a combination of spatial planning and a behavioural guidance strategy based on geographic information systems (GIS) on adolescent moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in an urban high school.MethodsAn urban high school outdoor environment was used as a case study with 485 students (mean age: 16.96 ± 0.71 years; boys: 47.2%). The effect of the intervention was assessed by a self-controlled experiment. The intervention combined the relocation of sports equipment and student activity maps, both designed using GIS. The number of participants engaging in physical activity behaviours was obtained through direct observation. Physical activity time was measured with accelerometers. Focus group interviews with students and school staff were used to explain the effects of the intervention in a semistructured manner.ResultsThe number of students who participated in MVPA in school outdoor areas increased from 216 at baseline to 294 at follow-up; significant increases (p < 0.05) in the number of participants engaging in MVPA were observed in informal and formal sports areas. In terms of least-active students, posttest and follow-up assessments revealed significantly increased MVPA time (β = 0.90, p < 0.05); age and sex were not significant moderators in the intervention (Sex: β = -0.65, p > 0.05; Age: β = 0.16, p > 0.05); and recess duration was a significant moderator in the intervention (β = 1.84, p < 0.01).ConclusionsThe combined spatial planning and behavioural guidance intervention for unstructured recess demonstrated the potential to increase the number of students engaging in MVPA and to enhance MVPA time among the least-active students. This cost-effective intervention holds promise for integration into high school recess activity programs.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-24908-1.

ABSTRACT Microgrids have low energy input voltage and perform better in low-voltage scenarios, but wind and photovoltaic power generation are unstable, affecting continuous current output and power flow. While combining microgrids with bioelectric technologies is theoretically feasible, power generation stability must be addressed. Thus, this paper proposes a joint regression analysis method to integrate the two, collect voltage and current data to balance power flow in sports equipment, and enhance enterprise industrial application. First, microgrid data was standardized via a signal identification device, and a joint database with bioelectricity was built. Then, signals like power flow and voltage were analyzed to locate data anomalies. Finally, effects were judged based on microgrid power flow output, bioelectric identification accuracy, etc. Results show: the impact of power flow changes on energy consumption is 2.396, the proportion of new energy in energy consumption is 79.88%, their integration is good, and the power fusion coefficient is 0.42 (significantly higher than 0.22 for operation and maintenance). Conclusions indicate microgrids meet low-voltage bioelectric needs, bioelectricity promotes their energy structure adjustment, and expands their application in the sports industry under the joint regression algorithm.

The system of additional professional education (APE) in the field of physical culture and sports is currently undergoing active transformation, driven both by external challenges and widespread changes in the regulatory framework. The analytical materials presented in the article reveal the features of the formation of the current model of additional education in Russia, taking into account the specifics of specialized higher education institutions and other organizations engaged in additional education activities. The local geography of participants in professional development and retraining programs has been revealed, and trends in the thematic distribution of professional development programs in specialized higher education institutions have been partially determined in accordance with the number of participants as of the end of 2024. The purpose of the study is to identify and characterize key educational trends, the challenges of implementing educational services, and the prospects for their development within the system of additional professional education for specialists in the field of physical culture and sports in the Russian Federation. Research methods: analysis of scientific, methodological, and specialized literature, contemporary supplementary education programs, regulatory documents, as well as labor market data and the demands of the professional community; methods of systemic and comparative analysis. Research results and conclusions. Shifts in educational trends toward practice-oriented approaches and modularity have been identified. A significant portion of programs delivered in digital format has been noted, which increases the accessibility of professional development programs, but at the same time reduces in-person interaction with the bearer of professional knowledge. A significant growth in competition in the market for additional educational services has been observed, with other organizations (autonomous non-profit organizations, limited liability companies, etc.) becoming active participants, and in some cases, individual training centers are being established at existing fitness centers, sports associations, or manufacturers of various sports equipment. According to the authors, the further prospective development of the additional professional education system in the field of physical culture and sports is associated with enhancing the level of integration between specialized educational organizations, professional communities, and employers. Promising trajectories based on the formation of digital competencies have been identified. A pressing need has been noted to analyze the current state of additional professional education in order to determine the directions for its further development.

The purpose of the study is to characterize the conditions and organization of physical education for students with disabilities based on an analysis of the opinions of physical education teachers. Research methods and organization. In April 2025, an online survey of physical education teachers instructing children with disabilities was conducted to assess the conditions and organization of physical education. Research results and conclusions. Data are presented on the characteristics of teaching methods for children with disabilities, the conditions and organization of physical education lessons, the challenges of educating children with disabilities, and the main directions for improving the physical education of students with disabilities, including medical-psychological-pedagogical support, physical education and sports equipment, medical-pedagogical monitoring, interaction with parents, and staff training for teaching children with disabilities. The research results can be used to enhance the conditions and organization of physical education for children with disabilities.

This study aims to explore the perspectives of both the educational supervisor and the subject specialist regarding the reality of implementing school sports activities in Mosul schools. This is examined through three dimensions: The role of school administration in promoting school sports activities. The role of the physical education teacher in promoting school sports activities. The administrative and financial barriers preventing the start of school sports activities. Methodology: The researchers used the descriptive–analytical method. The study sample included 62 supervisors (educational and subject specialists) working in the Nineveh Directorate of Education. The researchers developed a questionnaire that covered three main areas: the role of school administration, the role of physical education teachers, and the administrative and financial obstacles to activating school sports activities. The questionnaire featured 23 items and was based on a four-point Likert scale. After confirming the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, it was distributed to the study participants. Findings: Through this analysis, the researchers concluded the following: The school administration's role in supporting the necessary requirements to activate school sports activities is weak. Physical education teachers are essential in promoting school sports activities. There is a shortage of sufficient financial and human resources needed to support school sports activities effectively. Many schools lack playgrounds for sports and sufficient sports equipment and tools.

BackgroundUnder the strategic framework of “Healthy China,” the issue of insufficient exercise adherence among college students has become increasingly prominent. As an emerging intervention tool, wearable sports equipment (WSE) holds potential in addressing this issue, yet its effectiveness may be influenced by exercise motivation and social support. Existing studies have primarily focused on the independent effects of technological interventions, with limited exploration of the psychosocial mechanisms involved.ObjectiveDrawing upon Self-Determination Theory and Social Support Theory, this study constructs a mediated model of exercise motivation to examine the mechanisms through which WSE influences exercise adherence among college students, with a particular focus on the mediating role of exercise motivation and the moderating effect of social support.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted using stratified cluster sampling among 1,286 students from six universities across China. Core variables were measured using the Perceived Use of Wearable Equipment Scale, Exercise Adherence Scale, Exercise Motivation Scale, and Social Support Scale. Model 59 of the SPSS PROCESS macro was employed for data analysis.ResultsWSE use significantly predicted exercise adherence (β = 0.143, p < 0.001), with exercise motivation partially mediating this relationship (accounting for 27.3% of the total effect). Social support exhibited a dual moderating effect: it strengthened the direct effect of WSE on exercise adherence (β = 0.204 under high support vs. β = 0.082 under low support), but weakened the effect of WSE on exercise motivation (non-significant under high support, β = 0.219 under low support), as well as the indirect effect of WSE on exercise adherence via motivation (β = 0.116 under high support vs. β = 0.463 under low support).ConclusionWSE impacts exercise behavior through the synergistic interplay of exercise motivation and social support. Intervention strategies should be tailored according to individuals’ levels of social support—those with low support should focus on strengthening motivational internalization, while those with high support may benefit more from the direct reinforcement of technological feedback. The findings provide a theoretical basis for optimizing health promotion strategies in higher education institutions.

A target is needed for kicks and attacks. Currently, these targets are always held by the lecturer, which, when used, significantly wastes time in learning sessions. With the funded Community Service Program (PKM) activity, the lecturer developed his creativity by creating a target stand, which was still incomplete at the time. The results of this community service implementation will impact students in the Physical Education Department at Lambung Mangkurat University. Lecturers teaching martial arts courses have greatly benefited from the presence of this target stand. Survey data analysis results are still in progress and will be attached to the final report. In this case, the partner is a colleague within the Physical Education Department, with whom he has a collaboration in the construction and welding fields. 80% of sports equipment is made from hard materials such as steel. Therefore, the Department has a long-standing partnership with DTK (Dita Teknik Kontruksi). Furthermore, metal sports equipment is regularly maintained, and if damaged, the partner is ready to repair it at a certain capacity.

Judo is a martial art that was established in Japan, and it is now famous around the world sports. Millions of people participate in sport, watch and hear about them and spend billions of dollars on sports related activities and equipment’s. Sports is also one of the factor solidifying national integration and developing national character, which are the most urgent needs of Competitive sports have a very high value in society. The purpose of present study was to find out the analysis of selected physical and Physiological variables in 52 kg weight category. The subjects for this study were selected from Different states of India. A total of 105 female judo players from different state of India were selected, 15 from each weight Category. The Physical and the Physiological variable were collected by the suitable test and under control laboratory. The regression analysis technique was used for analysis of data. The study finds out that the there is relationship between the physical and physiological to the performance.

This paper presents a nonlinear aero-thermo-elastic analysis for multi-directional functionally graded material (MD-FGM) with the effect of variable thickness in different directions, in addition to utilizing temperature dependence. The purpose of this exercise is to evaluate the structural stability and dynamic behavior of the blades, while also including a higher-order deformation theory, by means of hyperbolic function and Von-Karman nonlinearity. The MD-FGM sector plate model is based upon temperature-dependent materials and variable thickness distribution effects, which directly affect mechanical performance and reliability during dynamic conditions. The modeling is based on Hamilton’s principle, with Krumhaar’s adaptation of supersonic piston theory incorporated to adequately model the aerodynamic loads. Using the governing equations, including both structure and thermal growth, with the two-dimensional generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) method, and implementing the Gauss–Chebyshev–Lobatto function to improve numerical integration accuracy in the solution process. This process is relevant to sports equipment for the manufacture of golf clubs, additionally highlighting control over the material properties and the geometry of the blades. The results highlighted the significant effect of material grading and geometry of blades in determining dynamic stability and offered valuable observations into the design of high-performance sporting equipment when temperature and aerodynamic effects can compromise long-term reliability and efficiency.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of head injuries associated with consumer products presenting to emergency departments (EDs) in the United States.MethodsWe included ED visits for head injuries occurring in all ages from 2014 to 2024 from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a database of consumer product-related injuries occurring in the United States. National estimates were derived from the NEISS statistical weights associated with each ED visit. We calculated the annual national rate of ED visits for head injuries and examined the trends in the crude rates for head injury ED visits across age groups. Temporal analysis identified the dates of significantly more head injury visits than expected.ResultsThere were 571,438 ED visits for head injuries, representing 15.02% of all ED visits in the NEISS data set from 2014 to 2024. Nationally, injuries occurred most in men (51.11%), White identifying individuals (49.74%), and persons aged younger than 5 years (17.94%). Injuries occurred throughout the year, but April, May, June, and December had the most days where injuries significantly exceeded expectations. Most patients (84.04%) were treated and released from the ED. Internal organ injury was the most common diagnosis across age groups.ConclusionHead injury rates increased over the study period, with variation by age group. Involved products differed significantly by age group, with organized sports (football, basketball, soccer, and baseball) equipment being common in adolescents and floors/structural items (floors, beds, and stairs) being common in the elderly. These findings can inform public health policy and education.

Aquatic activities, particularly swimming, have been demonstrated to enhance physical conditioning and psychological well-being. However, the risk of water-induced otitis externa&amp;mdash;caused by microbial colonization in the external auditory canal&amp;mdash;often deters sustained participation in aquatic sports. Traditional swimming earplugs are typically limited in terms of comfort, water resistance, and antimicrobial protection, which can lead to potential ear canal infections and reduced effectiveness in preventing water ingress. In this study, we proposed using 3D scanning and printing technology to produce personally customized swimming earplugs to address these challenges. Embedded-suspension 3D printing technology was applied to fabricate structures using non-self-supporting Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) ink, printing hydrophobic ink in a hydrophilic system. The 3D-printed PDMS/Ag-3% composites exhibited an excellent inhibition rate (99.89%), good sound insulation performance (&gt;30 dB, 1000&amp;ndash;6300 Hz, 8 mm thickness), elasticity (elongation at break of 62.93%), and low modulus (0.85 MPa). We then recruited 60 beginner swimmers for a wear trial to demonstrate the effectiveness of personalized earplugs in preventing otitis externa and reducing ear canal irritation. This approach not only highlights the potential of 3D printing technology in sports equipment but also offers new insights for developing customized wearables.

This study aims to address prevalent challenges in university sports equipment management, such as inventory inaccuracy, high loss rates, operational inefficiency, and inadequate maintenance, by designing and implementing an automated management system based on UHF RFID technology. The system is built on a three-layer architecture (Perception, Network, Application) and utilizes customized durable RFID tags, fixed and handheld readers, and a comprehensive software platform integrating inventory management, transaction processing, and maintenance alerts. A three-month pilot study was conducted, tracking over 300 items to evaluate system performance. The results demonstrated a 99.8% inventory accuracy rate, a 60% reduction in audit time, a 60% decrease in equipment loss, and over 75% improvement in checkout/return efficiency. The system also enabled predictive maintenance alerts based on usage data. The RFID-based system proves to be a robust, scalable, and highly efficient solution, significantly enhancing management practices. This system modernizes asset tracking in educational institutions, leading to substantial cost savings, optimized staff allocation, extended equipment lifespan through proactive maintenance, and improved user satisfaction. The architecture also provides a scalable platform for managing other mobile university assets.

Government procurement of goods and services is a crucial instrument in achieving transparent, efficient, and accountable governance. One of the key innovations introduced is the e-Catalogue system, an electronic procurement platform provided by the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP). This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the e-Catalogue in sports equipment procurement at the Youth and Sports Office (Dispora) of Semarang City, focusing on its mechanisms, supporting and inhibiting factors, and its impact on procurement governance. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, involving eight informants consisting of structural officials and suppliers. The findings indicate that, in general, the implementation of the e-Catalogue has been effective, particularly in terms of time efficiency, price transparency, and accountability enhancement. However, several challenges remain, including the lack of formal policy dissemination, limited digital literacy among some staff, insufficient internet infrastructure, and unstructured inter-unit coordination. Based on these findings, the study recommends several strategic measures: (1) establishing a permanent inter-unit coordination team, (2) strengthening human resource capacity through continuous training, (3) developing a digital dashboard for real-time monitoring, (4) providing limited public access to procurement reports, and (5) fostering partnerships with suppliers through technical forums and routine evaluations. These measures are expected to optimize the implementation of the e-Catalogue and serve as a best practice model for other local government institutions.

Auxetic composite provides a suitable alternative to conventional composite, especially for high-energy absorption applications. Although auxetic reinforcements can absorb high energy due to their structural mobility, limited compatible resins are available for composite fabrication. This study explores the development of a novel epoxy-siloxane elastomer blend designed to enhance the mechanical properties of auxetic composites, which are known for their high-energy absorption capabilities. The conventional challenge in auxetic composite fabrication is the limited compatibility of auxetic reinforcements with resins like epoxy, which restricts structural mobility, and elastane, which compromises toughness. Addressing this, the research introduces a blend of epoxy resin and activated siloxane elastomer to improve material compatibility, toughness, and elongation without sacrificing the auxetic properties. Experimental findings show that the optimal blend, containing 25% activated siloxane elastomer, significantly increases the material’s toughness and elongation, up to ten times compared to pure epoxy. This enhancement in mechanical performance is attributed to improved interfacial adhesion and synergy between the auxetic reinforcements and the matrix, facilitating superior stress distribution and energy dissipation. The study underscores the blend’s potential in creating durable, high-performance auxetic composites for applications requiring exceptional energy absorption, such as protective gear and structural components in transportation and sports equipment.

Since entering the Indonesian market in 2017, Decathlon Indonesia—a subsidiary of the global sports equipment retailer from France—has faced challenges in enhancing customer satisfaction and engagement in the competitive sports retail industry. This study analyzes the impact of Chatbot and Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption and human resource readiness in the Industry 4.0 era on customer experience satisfaction. Employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates surveys, focus group discussions, and literature studies, the research applies the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), complemented by Industrial HR Mapping 4.0: Gap and Index. Findings reveal that Chatbots and AI solutions significantly improve customer satisfaction, yet human resource readiness remains a barrier, particularly in unstructured knowledge sharing. These results underscore the need for an integrated knowledge management (KM) system. Accordingly, the study recommends the SECI (Socialization, Externalization, Combination, Internalization) model to enhance cross-functional collaboration and customer service. Theoretically, this research extends TAM and UTAUT within sports retail in developing countries. Practically, it provides strategic insights for Decathlon and similar firms to leverage digital technologies while strengthening HR capacity to deliver superior customer experiences.