Competitive Success Research Articles

A detailed analysis of game statistics of professional tennis players: An inferential and machine learning approach.

Tennis, a widely enjoyed sport, motivates athletes and coaches to optimize training for competitive success. This retrospective predictive study examines anthropometric features and statistics of 1990 tennis players in the 2022 season, using 20,040 data points retrospectively obtained from the ATP official source after the end of the season. These data were cross-verified with information from other sources before categorisation to address any discrepancies. Employing various analytical methods, the results emphasize the strategic importance of tournament participation and gameplay for financial gains and higher rankings. Prize money analysis reveals a significant disparity favoring top players. Multivariate Analysis of Variance highlights the need to consider multiple variables for understanding ATP rankings. Multinomial Logistic Regression identifies age, height, and specific service-related metrics as key determinants, with older and taller players more likely to secure top positions. Neural Network models exhibit potential in predicting ATP Rank outcomes, particularly for ATP Rank (500). Our results argue for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically Neural Networks, in handling complex interactions and emphasize that AI is a supportive tool in decision-making, requiring careful consideration by experienced individuals. In summary, this study enhances our understanding of ATP ranking factors, providing actionable insights for coaches, players, and stakeholders in the tennis community.

Invasion alters plant and mycorrhizal communities in an alpine tussock grassland.

Plant invasions are impacting alpine zones, altering key mutualisms that affect ecosystem functions. Plant-mycorrhizal associations are sensitive to invasion, but previous studies have been limited in the types of mycorrhizas examined. Consequently, little is known about how invaders that host rarer types of mycorrhizas may affect community and ecosystem properties. We studied invasion by an ericoid mycorrhizal host plant (Calluna vulgaris L., heather) in alpine tussock grasslands in New Zealand. We investigate the effects of increasing C. vulgaris density on the plant and soil microbial community and on mycorrhization in the dominant native species (Chionochloa rubra Z., red tussock), an arbuscular mycorrhizal host. We show that variation in plant community composition was primarily driven by invader density. High invader densities were associated with reductions in C. rubra diameter and in the cover, richness and diversity of the subordinate plant community. Belowground, we show that higher invader densities were associated with lower rates of mycorrhization in C. rubra and higher proportional abundance of the fungal lipid biomarker 18:2ω6 but had little effect on total microbial biomass, which may suggest increased ericoid mycorrhizal and fine root biomass in high C. vulgaris density stands. Our data suggest that disruption of native plant-arbuscular mycorrhizal networks may contribute to the competitive success of C. vulgaris, and that the dramatic decline of C. rubra with invasion reflects its relatively high mycorrhizal dependence. By exploring invasion of a plant with a less common mycorrhizal type, our study expands knowledge of the ecosystem consequences of biological invasions.

Pengaruh Pemberdayaan Karyawan dan Lingkungan Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan dengan Produktivitas Kerja Sebagai Variabel Mediasi pada UMKM di Madura

This study aims to explore and analyze the influence of employee empowerment and work environment on employee performance in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with work productivity as a mediating variable. In the context of MSMEs, employee empowerment and work environment are considered important factors that can affect employee performance. Employee empowerment involves giving authority, autonomy, and opportunities to develop, while the work environment includes physical and psychological aspects that affect work comfort and effectiveness. This study uses a quantitative method with a survey on MSMEs in Madura Island, and involves data collection through questionnaires filled out by employees and managers. Data collected as many as 103 samples will be analyzed using the smartPLS 4.0 technique to test the relationship between employee empowerment, work environment, work productivity, and employee performance. The results of the study indicate that employee empowerment does not significantly affect employee performance, employee empowerment significantly affects work productivity, work environment significantly affects employee performance, work environment significantly does not affect work productivity, work productivity significantly does not affect employee performance in MSMEs in Madura Island. These findings provide important insights for MSME owners and managers in designing empowerment strategies and creating a supportive work environment. By increasing employee empowerment and creating a conducive work environment, MSMEs can improve overall employee productivity and performance. This study suggests that MSMEs should pay more attention to these factors in an effort to improve their competitiveness and business success.

ANALYSIS OF MARKETING CAPABILITIES, COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE AND ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE IN IMPROVING SME PERFORMANCE(SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES)

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges in maintaining performance amidst increasingly tight market competition, especially in utilizing marketing capabilities, competitive advantages, and organizational culture. This study aims to explore the impact of investment in training and technology, participation in industry conferences, and collaboration with technology partners on SME performance. Qualitative research methods were used, including in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, to identify key factors influencing the success of these strategies. The results show that investments in training and technology significantly increase employee competency and technology adoption, while participation in technology conferences and collaborations expands innovation opportunities and market access. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of an integrative approach that combines training, technology and strategic partnerships to enhance the competitiveness and long-term success of SMEs. This research provides new contributions to the SME management literature as well as practical recommendations for industry players and policy makers.

L’Oréal’s Market Strategy: How Business Activities Shape Brand Performance

This paper examines the market strategy of L’Oréal, one of the world’s leading cosmetics groups, and the impact of its business activities on brand performance. The research focuses on the multifaceted approach of L’Oréal in leveraging its global presence and diverse brand portfolio to enhance market performance. By analyzing L’Oréal’s strategic initiatives, including product innovation, digital marketing, sustainability efforts, and regional market adaptation, the study explores how these activities contribute to the company’s competitive advantage and financial success. The paper draws upon a comprehensive analysis of L’Oréal’s business activities review to understand the correlation between strategic and brand performance. It also considers the role of L’Oréal’s marketing mix and the application of SWOT analysis to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats faced by the company. The findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge on corporate strategy and brand management, offering valuable insights for both academicians and practitioners in the field of marketing and business management. The study concludes with recommendations for L’Oréal to sustain its market leadership and further enhance brand performance through strategic business activities.

The role of sport psychology in improving the performance of badminton athletes: a systematic review

Abstract. Sports psychology plays a vital role in improving the performance of badminton athletes. Psychological factors such as motivation, competitive anxiety, concentration, and mental resilience have been identified as critical influences on athlete performance. This study aims to systematically review the existing literature to identify and analyze the role of sports psychology in improving badminton athlete performance. The researcher searched for journal articles, books, and research reports relevant to sports psychology and badminton from various electronic databases through a systematic literature review approach. Specific inclusion criteria were applied to select studies that explicitly addressed the effect of psychological interventions on the performance of badminton athletes. Data analysis was conducted qualitatively to synthesize findings from the literature chosen. The literature review revealed that psychological techniques, including goal setting, relaxation techniques, visualization, and mental toughness coaching, positively impact the performance of badminton athletes. Findings suggest that psychological training integrated into athlete training programs can increase motivation, reduce competitive anxiety, strengthen concentration, and build mental resilience, all critical factors in athletic achievement. Sports psychology is a critical element in the training of badminton athletes, with significant potential to improve athlete performance. Psychological interventions tailored to the individual needs of athletes hold promise in optimizing athletic potential and achieving competitive success. Future research is needed to understand better how to best integrate these psychological techniques into the training of badminton athletes and to design more effective training programs that take full advantage of the role of sports psychology.

THE INFLUENCE OF QUALITY SERVICE FOR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION : CASE STUDY IN ZADJ PROSALON BALIKPAPAN

The objective of this research to determine the effect of Service Quality on customer satisfaction at Zadj Prosalon Balikpapan which is motivated by the phenomenon of more and more people who care about their appearance, namely beauty care and the emergence of various Beauty Salon Businesses in the Balikpapan community, therefore companies need to retain customers not only with good product quality but also through service quality that needs to be continuously monitored and improved in order to achieve optimal customer satisfaction because customer quality and satisfaction hold crucial stakes for success and survival in today's market competition. Customer quality and satisfaction are closely related to market share and customer retention. Increased customer retention implies greater positive word-of-mouth information distribution, reducing price sensitivity which ultimately results in better business performance. This study was conducted on customers who came and had treatments more than 2 times. The sampling technique was nonprobability sampling. The analysis method used in this study is multiple linear regression analysis and questionnaires as a means of collecting respondent data are then processed with the help of the SPSS Statistics program with a sample size of 295. Data analysis techniques used in this study are validity test, reliability test, multicollinearity test, heteroscedasticity, autocorrelation, F-test, t-test. Based on the results obtained from this study, service quality has a positive and significant effect on Customer Satisfaction at Zadj Prosalon Balikpapan. Quality has an effect of 75.2% on customer satisfaction, while the remaining 24.8% is influenced by service variables, other variables not examined in this study

Unlocking the Work–Life Equation: Critical Analysis of Telework Factors for Optimal Balance in the IT/ITES Sector

In the contemporary corporate landscape, the notions of telework, job engagement and work–life balance have emerged as the most compelling concepts. These concepts have been found to significantly enhance employee performance and provide organizations with a strategic competitive edge. Recognizing the relevance of these considerations to the working world, the current study addresses the gap in the literature on telework and work–life balance in the Indian context. The present study makes a valuable contribution to the existing literature on flexible work arrangements, including flexible scheduling, family obligations and job commitment. The study aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by exploring the relationship between telework and work–life balance in the Indian context. While some research is available on telework and work–life balance, there is a lack of specific studies focusing on the Indian context. This study recognizes the importance of understanding the unique cultural and organizational factors that may influence telework and work–life balance in India. Also, the information technology (IT) and IT-enabled services (ITES) industries are well-positioned to maintain their use of telework as a competitive advantage as the globe gets past the pandemic’s initial effects. These industries can strengthen their competitiveness, spur innovation and guarantee long-term success in a global economy driven by digitalization by incorporating remote labour into their fundamental operational plans. IT and ITES businesses have a chance to reimagine the future of work in the post-COVID age by establishing new benchmarks for adaptability, productivity and resilience. This analytical study adopts a cross-sectional time horizon and focuses on individual employees within the IT/ITES sector. The study employed a survey methodology, utilizing a questionnaire developed by the author to collect data. A total of 217 employees participated in the study, with a convenient sampling technique being utilized to ensure a representative sample. The data were then analyzed further with an exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The study identified telework, work facilitator, working situations and job engagement as significant constructs in predicting work–life balance. Implications for research and practice are discussed. This study provides academics with useful insights for theory formation and verification of telework, work–life balance and job engagement. Four key factors were identified through the utilization of EFA: Telework, work facilitators, working situations and job engagement. The aforementioned factors offer significant insights into the fundamental dimensions that influence the work–life balance within this industry. The present study incorporates diverse work arrangements, such as adaptable working hours and telecommuting alternatives, alongside conducive organizational cultures and policies that prioritize family support. The identification of work facilitators as a distinct factor underscores the significance of organizational support in establishing an environment that empowers workers to effectively harmonize their professional and personal obligations. The present study’s results indicate that gender may not be a decisive factor in shaping telework, work facilitators, working situations or job engagement in the IT/ITES industry, since there is no discernible connection between gender and these variables. Because the study was restricted to the IT/ITES industry, its conclusions might not be easily applied to other industries. Additionally, as the investigation relied on self-reported data, it may have been impacted by biases and a tendency to behave in a way that appears appealing to others. Prospective research endeavours could investigate the relationship between gender and work–life balance components in a variety of contexts and examine additional demographic characteristics that may influence these elements. The study’s findings could potentially provide valuable information for both employers and employees in the IT/ITES sector. Employers may gain insights into the factors that contribute to work–life balance disparities, enabling them to implement policies and practices that support healthier work–life integration for their employees. Employees, on the other hand, may benefit from a better understanding of how their demographic characteristics intersect with work–life balance factors, allowing them to make informed decisions about their career and personal life. This study captures the potential of telework in emerging economies for increasing job engagement. A unique and modern insight into how telework affects the technology space is what makes the work stand out from the static framework in the literature. How telework and its variables affect work–life balance and job engagement of the employees and how the organizations have a positive impact on productivity, is the novel factor in the study.

ESTRATÉGIAS DE CONFORTO AMBIENTAL PARA QUADRAS FECHADAS VOLTADAS A ESPORTES DE ALTO RENDIMENTO

Sports architecture, with its particularities, is essential to optimize the efficiency of environments, considering the specific needs of each sport. This article addresses environmental comfort strategies applied to indoor courts intended for high-performance sports, highlighting the importance of an architecturally planned environment to ensure the well-being of athletes and optimize their performance. The study focuses on thermal, visual, acoustic and ergonomic aspects, and analyzes how each of these factors influences sports performance. In addition, it explores the interaction between the body and the physical environment, proposing solutions that favor the creation of functional and comfortable spaces for sports practice and competitive events. The research, of a bibliographic and exploratory nature, brings together concepts of environmental psychology and athletic performance, in addition to highlighting the construction strategies of ventilation, lighting and acoustic control that can be applied to indoor courts with the aim of promoting human well-being. The work proposes solutions so that sports centers offer adequate conditions for sports practice, supporting the creation of environments that favor both the satisfaction and the enhancement of the performance of athletes. From this study, it is possible to define the importance of the preparation and competition environment in the performance of high-performance athletes, and architecture, linked to environmental comfort, is shown to be a tool for the development of these spaces, essential for success in national and international sports competitions.

Rapid Weight Changes and Competitive Outcomes in Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts: A 14-Month Study of 24 Combat Sports Events.

This study investigates the rapid weight loss (RWL) and rapid weight gain (RWG) of contest winners and losers from Muay Thai (MT) and mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The relationship between rapid weight change variables of males and females, and competitive success is also examined. Data from a weight management questionnaire was collected one day post-competition from 185 participants across 24 fight events, resulting in 263 responses (MMA: n = 78, MT: n = 185). Official and secondary weigh-in data were provided by the Combat Sports Commission. The results show that in MT, contest winners compared to losers had significantly greater RWL-7 days (5.9 ± 2.6% vs. 4.6 ± 2.7%, p = 0.01), RWG (6.2 ± 2.9% vs. 4.7 ± 2.8%, p = 0.003), and RWG/RWL ratio (108% [86-132%] vs. 86% [60-119%], p = 0.038), while no significant differences were observed for MMA. Mixed logistic regression models that controlled for age showed that a 1% increase in female RWL-24 h ([OR = 1.57, R2 = 0.105, p = 0.001]) was associated with a 1.6 times higher likelihood of winning compared to female athletes without this increase. We emphasise that associations do not imply causation, and it is possible that other factors which align with rapid weight change practices may impact the observed relationship. Nonetheless, MT contest winners show greater RWL, RWG, and RWG/RWL ratio than losers, and female rapid weight changes appear to be associated with competitive success in this cohort.

The influence of a coordination training model that uses various manipulative movements on futsal kick accuracy

Achieving precise kick accuracy and coordinated movements in futsal was essential for competitive success. This study aimed to evaluate the differences between various futsal training approaches that incorporated distinct coordination exercises involving manipulative movements, specifically assessing their impact on kick accuracy. A quasi-experimental design with a control group was employed, focusing on shooting skills within the futsal context. The population consisted of 70 members from the Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) futsal team, from which 40 players were purposively selected based on their participation duration of over six months and their tier status within the university's core teams. Participants were divided into two groups: one received static coordination training (control group), and the other underwent dynamic coordination training (experimental group), each comprising 20 players. The intervention spanned 18 sessions, including pre- and post-tests. Data were collected through a modified shooting kick test at the futsal goal, utilizing a point distribution system. Analysis revealed significant differences in kick performance between the two training methods, with dynamic coordination training yielding superior results (t-count = 3.010 t-table = 2.024). These findings indicated that dynamic coordination exercises were more effective than static ones in enhancing futsal kick accuracy. Future research should have considered expanding the population and sample size to include amateur players, introducing additional variables and diverse training methodologies, extending training duration and frequency, conducting long-term evaluations, measuring shooting technique quality, and employing quantitative research methods. By addressing these suggestions, subsequent studies could contribute more comprehensively to the understanding of effective training strategies in futsal.

A novel investigation of NCAA athletes’ psychological skill profiles through a person-centered approach

ABSTRACT Psychological skills provide useful information about athletes’ competitive levels and athletic successes. However, previous studies on NCAA athletes examined Division I, but not Divisions II and III. Using a person-centered approach, we explored the psychological skill profiles of Division I, II, and III athletes (N = 378; M age = 19.88), who completed an online survey assessing demographic backgrounds and the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28. Cluster analyses indicated three profiles – Low Psychological Skills, Moderate Psychological Skills, and High Psychological Skills. Comparison of the profile composition indicated a significantly (1) larger female-to-male athlete distribution in the Low Psychological Skills profile (19.0% to 81.0%) than in the Moderate Psychological Skills profiles (40.2% to 59.8%) and the High Psychological Skills profile (41.7% to 58.3%); (2) larger individual-to-team-sports distribution in the Low Psychological Skills profile (41.5% to 58.5%) than in the Moderate Psychological Skills profile (22.6% to 77.4%); and (3) larger nonstarter-to-starter distribution in the Moderate Psychological Skills profile (48.0% to 52.0%) than in the High Psychological Skills profile (27.2% to 72.8%). The profile composition was not significantly different across division. Additionally, the High Psychological Skills profile had a significantly higher average amount of psychological practices than the Low Psychological Skills profile.

Stages of development of a methodological approach for assessing the effectiveness of digital transformation projects of an industrial enterprise

The relevance of the study is determined by the fact that the digital transformation of the enterprise becomes the cornerstone of the organization's success: enterprises use digital technologies to optimize production processes, logistics operations, improve product quality, customer service and develop digital innovation.The purpose of the study is to develop key stages of the formation of a methodological approach to assess the effectiveness of digital transformation projects of an industrial enterprise based on the determination of the main aspects of digital transformation of enterprises in terms of the formation of a new business model of the enterprise in a single information (digital) space.The objectives of the study are to analyze publications in terms of clarifying the term "digital transformation project of an industrial enterprise" and formulating the author's definition of "digital transformation project of an industrial enterprise" from the standpoint of developing the production and economic system; identification of distinctive features of IT projects and projects of digital transformation of an industrial enterprise; analysis of the tools for assessing management digital decisions; development of stages of methodological approach formation for evaluation of efficiency of digital transformation projects.Methodology. The following methods were used during the study: comparative analysis, observations, generalization, abstraction, modeling. In the course of scientific research, methods of deduction and induction, systemic and critical analysis were used.Results. As a result of the study, the authors formulated the definition of the definition "project of digital transformation of an industrial enterprise" from the standpoint of developing the production and economic system. Distinctive features of IT projects and digital transformation projects of an industrial enterprise have been identified. Based on the proposed structure of the methodological approach and the analysis of tools for assessing management digital decisions, the stages of forming a methodological approach for assessing the effectiveness of digital transformation projects of an industrial enterprise were developed.Conclusion. The authors conclude that the developed stages of forming a methodological approach to assess the effectiveness of digital transformation projects of an industrial enterprise will be useful for enterprise managers to ensure strategic competitive success and increase operational efficiency.

Home-Field Advantage in Soccer: UEFA Champions League and Europa League Evaluation on the 2021-2022 Season

Competition analysis in football is an important method to evaluate the success and failure of teams. Home advantage is considered as an important factor in achieving success in competitions. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of home advantage on technical criteria in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, which are organised at club level, played in the 2021-2022 season. In the data collection phase, descriptive survey method was used. Within the scope of the research, a total of 262 football matches, excluding the final matches played at neutral grounds and total of 744 goals scored in these matches were analysed in terms of home and away teams in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. The goals scored were categorised as the goal minutes intervals, the goal scoring areas (Inside the Penalty Area: IPA; Outside the Penalty Area: OPA), the ways goals were scored (Head Kick; Foot Kick), the number of touches on the ball before the goal (1 Touch: 1T; 2 Touches: 2T; 3 Touches: 3T; 4 Touches + >4T), the direction of attack before the goal and the goals scored from set-pieces (Corner Kick; Penalty Kick and Free Kick) for the home and away teams. The images of the analysed goals were accessed on the UEFA official website with open access permission. Frequency (f) and percentage (%) were calculated for the evaluation of the data obtained, and since the data did not show normal distribution according to the Shapiro-Wilk test results, Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to look at the difference between the groups and the significance level was accepted as p

Comparative analysis of biomechanical patterns in sprinting: A machine learning approach to optimize running performance in track athletes

Athletes’ success in field and track competitions has been reported to be determined by their sprinting skills. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what biomechanical and physiological factors contribute to the most effective sprinting attributes. The scientific research on sprint evaluation has predominantly dealt with discrete metrics simultaneously, avoiding the interplay between multiple factors as the sprint progresses. Incorporating all the factors that could potentially influence the impact of excellent sprint ability is the primary objective of the present study. This research investigates the biomechanics of sprinting using a Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) hybrid approach, focusing mainly on factors like stride length, ground reaction forces, joint angles, and muscle activation patterns. The hybrid Machine Learning (ML) model accurately identifies between the two groups, and the results indicate that sprinters performing at the national level have more extended movements, higher reaction time to ground forces, and improved joint angles. The research project set up a 20-meter track for the race, and 30 participants, divided 50-50 between two distinct groups that included comparable college-level and national-level performers, participated. With a 92.4% accuracy, 90.2% precision, and 90.9% F1 score, the hybrid approach performed better than standard models in predicting optimum sprinting patterns. The higher efficiency is caused by phase-specific changes that the model unattended, such as enhanced knee angles and joint accelerated motion in the swing phase. In comparison, the SVM model, though respectable, lags behind with an accuracy of 85.7% and a lower precision and recall (82.4% and 80.9%, respectively). The RF model performed better than SVM with an accuracy of 88.1% and a balanced F1-score of 86.8% but still fell short of the CNN-LSTM hybrid. The standalone LSTM model performed relatively well, with an accuracy of 89.3% and an F1 score of 88.1%, showing its capability but still not matching the hybrid model’s performance.

The reputation capital of an individual in business environment and its impact on company’s reputation

In the modern world, the desire to be well perceived by the environment has become a duty, which is the only way to achieve a competitive advantage and success. Today, the reputation capital of an individual is of great importance, especially on the labor market. Everyone wants to be an important part of the team. To have respect and love in the workplace, it is necessary to develop and increase your reputation capital. In this article, the authors consider in detail the concept of «reputation», including the approaches of domestic and foreign authors, study the concept of «business reputation», its main characteristics, elements and advantages. The paper studies the ways to increase the reputation capital of an individual in business environment, as well as mistakes that should be avoided. It notes the actions that should be taken if someone wants to blacken business reputation for their own benefit. This article highlights and describes the impact of a person's reputation capital on the reputation of an enterprise based on the results of a Weber Shandwick survey, and also examines the company's impact on the reputation of employees: investigates key criteria of a future employer for most applicants, analyzes certain methods and tools for retaining valuable employees in the workplace in the long term. The article concludes with is formulating the concept of «reputation» as a social opinion, justified or not, about a certain object. A good reputation is synonymous with prestige, fame and a good name; a bad reputation is equated with dishonor or discredit.

Sports-Related Genomic Predictors Are Associated with Athlete Status in Chinese Sprint/Power Athletes.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between variant loci significantly associated with sports-related traits in the GWAS Catalog database and sprint/power athlete status, as well as to explore the polygenic profile of elite athletes. Methods: Next-generation sequencing and microarray technology were used to genotype samples from 211 elite athletes who had achieved success in national or international competitions in power-based sports and from 522 non-athletes, who were healthy university students with no history of professional sports training. Variant loci collected from databases were extracted after imputation. Subsequently, 80% of the samples were randomly selected as the training set, and the remaining 20% as the validation set. Results: Association analysis of variant loci was conducted in the training set, and individual Total Genotype Score (TGS) were calculated using genotype dosage and lnOR, followed by the establishment of a logistic model, with predictive performance evaluated in the validation set. Association analysis was performed on 2075 variant loci, and after removing linked loci (r2 > 0.2), 118 Tag SNPs (p ≤ 0.05) were identified. A logistic model built using 30 Tag SNPs (p ≤ 0.01) showed better performance in the validation set (AUC = 0.707). Conclusions: Our study identified 30 new genetic molecular markers and demonstrated that elite sprint/power athlete status is polygenic.

Gender-Specific Physiological Profiles and Performance Metrics in Young Elite Table Tennis Players

Table tennis requires a combination of anaerobic and aerobic energy systems, agility, short reaction times, and precise motor skills. The aim of this study is to investigate gender-specific physiological profiles and performance measures in young elite table tennis players. The objectives are to identify key physical and anthropometric attributes contributing to table tennis performance, compare these attributes between male and female athletes, and develop targeted training recommendations. The study involved sixteen players (8 males and 8 females) within the age range of 10 to 18 years who train regularly at Istanbul Pendik Sports Hall. Inclusion criteria required training at least three times per week and participating at championship levels. Anthropometric measurements were taken using a Seca 220R stadiometer and a Seca 710R weighing scale, with body fat percentage estimated via a Tanita scale. Performance tests included vertical jump height (Witty Microgate device), reaction times (custom device), and heart rates (Activio Sport System). Assessments were carried out between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Male athletes had higher mean values in height (159.00 ± 13.29 cm), weight (50.00 ± 12.06 kg), and vertical jump height, whereas female athletes had better reaction times (1.17 ± 0.14 seconds). No statistically significant differences were found in body fat percentage and mean heart rate. t-Tests revealed that gender differences in most performance metrics were not statistically significant, but correlation analysis showed statistically significant relationships between various physical characteristics and performance outcomes (p<0.05). As a result, physical fitness and reaction time are crucial for table tennis performance. Tailored training programs should focus on these attributes to enhance performance in young elite players. Future studies should follow these metrics longitudinally to understand their impact on competitive success.

Evaluation of the BJJFitness test: differences between competitors and non-competitors in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

This study introduces the BJJFitness Test, a novel tool designed to evaluate the physical and technical performance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners, distinguishing between competitors and non-competitors. The test demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.992) and strong test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.894). Key variables such as resting heart rate, heart rate during the test, number of takedowns, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were critical in differentiating the two groups. Competitors exhibited superior cardiovascular fitness, technical proficiency, and lower perceived exertion compared to non-competitors. The BJJFitness Test mimics real-match conditions, providing a practical and comprehensive assessment method that reflects the unique demands of BJJ. These findings underscore the importance of specific conditioning and technical skills for competitive success in BJJ. The study also highlights the potential of the BJJFitness Test as a valuable tool for coaches and athletes to identify strengths and areas for improvement, guiding targeted training interventions. Keywords: physiological assessment; anaerobic capacity; aerobic capacity; martial arts; performance metrics.

Interacting phenotypic plasticities: Do male and female responses to the sociosexual environment interact to determine fitness?

Socially induced plasticity in reproductive effort is a widely documented phenomenon. However, few empirical studies have examined how male and female plastic responses to the social environment might interact in determining fitness outcomes. In field crickets, Teleogryllus oceanicus, males respond to rival song by increasing expenditure on seminal fluid proteins that enhance competitive fertilization success at the cost of reduced embryo survival. It remains unknown whether plastic responses in females could moderate the effects of male competitiveness on offspring performance. Here we used a fully factorial design to explore the interacting effects on fitness of male and female plasticity to the sociosexual environment. We found that female crickets exposed to male song increased the number of eggs produced during early life reproduction, which came at a cost of reduced offspring size. There was evidence, albeit weak, that interacting effects of male and female sociosexual environment contributed to variation in the hatching success of eggs laid by females. Lifetime offspring production was unaffected by the sociosexual environments to which upstream male and female plastic responses were made. Our data offer a rare test of the theoretical expectation that male and female plasticities should interact in their effects on female fitness.