Volleyball Players Research Articles

Training Load and Injuries in Volleyball: An Approach Based on Different Methods of Calculating Acute to Chronic Workload Ratio.

Many questions persist regarding the relationship between training load and injuries in volleyball, as well as the best method for calculating acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR). This study aimed to investigate the relationship between different metrics of training load and risk of injury in male professional volleyball players. ACWR, as a training load measure, is useful for identifying injury risk in volleyball players, regardless of calculation method. Longitudinal, prospective, and observational design conducted over 3 seasons of professional male volleyball. Level 3. The study included 43 male volleyball players. Internal training load was quantified using the Session Rating of Perceived Exertion. From daily training load values, absolute measures and relative measures were computed. For relative measures, 7 days were employed for acute training load, and 21 and 28 days for chronic training load. A distinction was made between coupled calculation and uncoupled calculation. Injuries were documented using the Injury Surveillance Form proposed by the International Volleyball Federation. ACWR calculated in a coupled manner and by a rolling average demonstrated higher injury risks when analyzing the complete periods (odds ratio [OR] ACWR 7:28 = 2.040; ACWR 7:21 = 1.980) and competitive period (OR ACWR 7:28 = 2.044; ACWR 7:21 = 2.087). In contrast, during the preseason, the coupled exponential averages were more sensitive to the risk of injury (OR ACWR 7:28 = 4.370; ACWR 7.504). Both measures using rolling averages and those calculated from exponential averages can be employed to identify the risk of injuries in volleyball athletes. The findings of this study can be useful to coaching staff, fitness trainers, and healthcare professionals involved in the challenge of reducing the risk of injury in volleyball athletes. The need for continuous monitoring and real-time adjustments of training load is emphasized.

ANALYZING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PROGRAMS ON SHOULDER FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH KINESIOPHOBIA.

Background: Involvement of overhead activities is present in many of the games. In volleyball it’s very important. In a competitive atmosphere the collegiate players tend to get injuries, because of that they are developing apprehension. They are becoming kinesiophobia, there are very less studies are available related to this domain, Objective: This study analyzed the effectiveness of SINEX (Shoulder instability neuromuscular exercises) program on shoulder function in patients with kinesiophobia compared to HOMEX (Home based standard care exercise) program. Methods: This is an experimental study; participants were volleyball players who is kinesiophobic. Study setting was KG Campus, study duration is 6 months, and Treatment duration is 12 weeks. Total sample size was 22. By using random sampling method, the population divided into two groups. SINEX was given for Group A and HOMEX for Group B. The outcome measures were SPADI (shoulder pain and disability index) and Spiking velocity. Results: The study assessed the Shoulder function, after the training program, the player improved as well as the player was able to perform the game as well. Both SPADI and spiking velocity show positive improvement. T values of SPADI and Spiking velocity is 11.731 and 2.765 at p<0.05. Conclusion: SINEX (Shoulder instability neuromuscular exercises) program shows better improvement on shoulder function in patients with kinesiophobia compared to HOMEX (Home based standard care exercise) program.

Associations Between Sprint Mechanical Properties and Change of Direction Ability and Asymmetries in COD Speed Performance in Basketball and Volleyball Players

This study aimed to assess the associations between sprint force–velocity profile variables with change of direction (COD) performance and to investigate the impact of these variables on asymmetries in COD speed performance. Ninety-nine participants (volleyball players: n = 44, basketball players: n = 55) performed 40 m sprints for Fv relationship calculation, two COD tests (Modified Agility T-test and 505 test). A partial least squares (PLS) regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationships between the variables. The V0 was the most influential variable; it was negatively associated with COD performance variables (β = −0.260, −0.263 and −0.244 for MAT, 505-D and 505-ND, respectively), and F0 (β = 0.169, 0.163) was associated with the COD performance variables (COD deficit D and COD deficit ND, respectively), slightly larger than the effects of Fvslope (β = −0.162, −0.146), DRF (β = −0.159, −0.142) and Pmax (β = −0.162, −0.146). For COD deficit imbalance, the DRF (β = −0.070) was the most influential variable followed by Fvslope (β = −0.068), F0 (β = 0.046) and gender (β = 0.031). V0 and RFmax were the critical variables for improving COD performance that includes linear sprints, while DRF, Fvslope, F0 and Pmax collectively influence 180° COD performance. Meanwhile, DRF and Fvslope were important factors for asymmetries in COD speed performance. It is recommended to use the Fv profile to diagnose different COD movement patterns and then develop training plans accordingly for team sports played on smaller courts, such as basketball and volleyball.

Shape of the Sagittal Curvatures of the Spine in Young Female Volleyball Players

Background: The issue of the relation betweeen training loads on the shape of the spine of young players is of significant importance, as with the advancement of training seniority, unfavorable changes may be perpetuated resulting in possible consequences in the next stages of ontogenesis. The aim of this study was to assess the formation of the sagittal curvatures of the spine in girls practicing volleyball versus their nonpractising peers. Methods: We examined 60 girls aged 10–13 years, including 30 volleyball players and 30 untrained peers. The Baseline Bubble inclinometer was applied as a research. The data were analyzed based on Mann–Whitney U test and Pearson Chi-square test. Results. There were statistically significant intergroup differences in lumbar lordosis curvature values (Z = −2.67; p = 0.007). The prevalence of correctness values of the thoracic kyphosis curvature, was group-dependent (χ2(1) = 4.34; p = 0.037). Group also determined the prevalence of lumbar lordosis normalities (χ2(1) = 5.41; p = 0.020). Conclusions. Volleyball has a beneficial effect on the formation of the thoracic kyphosis, while the lumbar lordosis is shallowed under the influence of training. This indicates the need for a holistic approach to player training and the need to supplement the technique and tactics training with exercises to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the lumbar spine, improve spinal mobility, learn how to control the anterior tilt of the pelvis and train the fascia.

Evaluation of Lower Extremities Power, Movement, Position and Effectiveness in Volleyball

Background: This paper presents research on the comparison and evaluation of lower limb power, movement, position on the court, and effectiveness in the players of men’s volleyball. The study involved professional players in the first division of a men’s volleyball team. The main aim of this paper was to show the correlation between lower limb power, movement, position on the pitch, and volleyball efficiency. Methods: The authors presented basic somatic characteristics of anthropology metrics, advanced research results obtained with the Optojump measuring system, players’ results statistics obtained with the Data Volley software (v.4.2024.01), and by applying scientific statistical methods and graphics interpretation. Results: The analyses with the Kruskal-Wallis test showed statistically significant differences in all the variables studied. Flight time (TF, H = 122.967; p < 0.001.) was the shortest for the players in the libero position, then the setter, attacker, middle and longest flight time was shown by the receiving players. The height of the jumps (JH, H = 123.018; p < 0.001) was the highest for receiving and mid players, and then attackers and setters, and the lowest jumps were recorded by libero players. The highest power of lower limbs (P, H = 20.392; p < 0.001) was characteristic for receivers, setters, mid-players and, curiously, libero achieved a better result than attackers. Conclusions: The analysis shows that the power of the lower extremities in volleyball players is associated with the function they perform on the court.

Аналіз результатів анкетування волейболістів-аматорів та здобувачів освіти ЗВО фізичної культури і спорту щодо теоретичної підготовки в навчально-тренувальному процесі волейболістів

The aim of the study is to determine the opinions of amateur volleyball players and students of higher education institutions in the field of physical culture regarding theoretical preparation. Materials and Methods. During the research, the following methods were used: methods of theoretical level of research, methods of empirical level of research and mathematical statistical methods. Our survey aimed to identify the attitudes of amateur volleyball players and students of higher education institutions in physical culture regarding distance teaching of volleyball and theoretical preparation during both online and offline training processes. We proposed 8 specific questions in the survey about the respondents' awareness of theoretical preparation in volleyball, its significance, and the availability of modern forms and methods, as well as their self-assessment of theoretical preparedness, etc. A total of 70 respondents participated in the survey, including: 1 Master of Sports of International Class (1.4%); 1 Master of Sports (1.4%); 6 Candidates for Master of Sports (8.6%); 8 First-Class players (11.4%); 3 Second-Class players (4.3%); and 51 unclassified players (72.9%). Among all respondents, 49 were female (70%) and 21 were male (30%). By age: under 20 years – 17 individuals (24.2%); 20 to 25 years - 24 (34.3%); 25 to 30 years – 18 (25.8%); 30 to 35 years – 7 (10,0%); 35 to 40 years – 3 (4.3%); over 40 years – 1 (1.4%). Additionally, 65 volleyball players live in the city (92.85%), 1 in an urban-type settlement (1.43%), and 4 (5.72%) in rural areas. Among the respondents there were 24 students (34.3%), 40 (57.1%) working volleyball players, and 6 (8.6%) temporarily unemployed. The experience of volleyball training among the respondents varied from 1 to over 20 years: from 0 to 5 years – 19 (27.1%), from 5 to 10 years – 22 individuals (31.4%); from 10 to 15 years – 14 (20%); from 15 to 20 years – 9 (12.85%); over 20 years – 6 (8.6%). The survey was conducted during the "Fit-Mix" park volleyball tournament among amateur teams in Dnipro from March 9 to March 10, 2024, which involved 10 teams. Results. The analysis of the responses from amateur athletes and students of higher education institutions in physical culture to the question "Do you feel the need to acquire theoretical knowledge in volleyball?" indicates that 15 of them (21.4%) do not need theoretical knowledge at all, 14.3% rely on the coach's knowledge, only 8 (11.4%) have a constant need for knowledge about volleyball, and 37 (52.8%) feel the need for theoretical knowledge "from time to time." Conclusions. The research established that our assumption as to the necessity of scientific substantiating the structure and content of theoretical preparation in volleyball is confirmed by the majority of respondents expressing a need for theoretical knowledge. This is a relevant issue which solution will enhance the quality of training for higher education students in the field of physical culture and sports.

The Relationship between Beighton Score and Biomechanical Risk Factors among Adolescent, Female Volleyball Players

ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between Beighton score and biomechanical risk factors, such as knee valgus, in female, adolescent volleyball players. DesignCross-sectional study. SettingBiomechanics laboratory. Participants25 adolescent, club-level female volleyball athletes (14.5 ± 1.8 years) were tested between 9/2021 – 11/2021. Main outcome measuresParticipants were asked to perform a double-leg vertical jump (DLVJ), a single-leg squat (SLS), and a single-leg drop landing (SLDL). Peak coronal plane angles during the DLVJ, SLS, and SLDL were computed. Spearman correlations were performed to identify significant relationships between Beighton score and biomechanical variables. ResultsPeak knee valgus was found to be moderately correlated to Beighton score during the DLVJ-Land (r = 0.487, p = 0.014), SLDL (r = 0.478, p = 0.016), and SLS (r = 0.439, p = 0.028) tasks. ConclusionsOverall, adolescent volleyball players with higher Beighton scores tended to exhibit a greater peak knee valgus, suggesting that such athletes could benefit from a targeted neuromuscular training or injury prevention program.

Модель змагальної діяльності зв’язуючого гравця високої кваліфікації у волейболі

Increasing the competitive performance of Ukrainian volleyball players requires scientific support of the educational and training process and the use of modern methods of scientific research, one of which is modeling. Indicators of technical and tactical actions obtained by analyzing official competitions are the basis for creating models of competitive activity. The aim of the study is to develop a model of a high-skill link player on the basis of statistical data from the games of the Ukrainian Volleyball Championship among men's teams of the Super League. Material and Methods. The data of 18 qualified volleyball players who perform the function of a linking player in their teams were used for the study. We analyzed statistical data of link players of 8 teams participating in the Ukrainian Super League championship of the season 2023-24. To create a model of a linking player of Ukrainian Super League teams, 10 athletes were selected from the total sample, the main criterion was quantitative indicators of participation in the championship games (at least 80% of official matches). Research methods: analysis of literary sources and data in the Internet, pedagogical testing, analysis and generalization of statistical data of competitive activity, methods of mathematical statistics. Results. The analysis of game technical and tactical indicators of qualified volleyball players allows to understand more clearly the peculiarities of competitive activity of players of different roles. In accordance with the purpose of the study we analyzed the game activity indicators of linking players (number of matches and sets, total number of assists, effective assists, satisfactory assists, number of errors). It should be noted that all game indicators indicated the heterogeneity of the group of highly skilled binders, which is explained by different experience, players' participation in matches, and the variety of tactical actions of the teams. Conclusions. The developed model of competitive activity of highly skilled liaisons contains general data (height, age), indicators of physical abilities (height of block and attack), technical and tactical indicators (execution of passes, number of errors). In addition to the average data, the model presents a variation series from the lowest to the highest results.

Agility Ladder Training Combined With Plyometric or Multidirectional Speed Drills: Short-Term Adaptations on Jump, Speed, and Change of Direction Performance in Young Female Volleyball Players.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of agility ladder training combined with plyometric or multidirection speed drills, on performance in young female volleyball players. Seventy-six young female volleyball players were randomly distributed into 3 maturity-matched groups: (1) the agility ladder + plyometric drills group, (2) the agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group, and (3) the control group. Both experimental groups followed a 6-week training program, twice weekly, in addition to the regular volleyball training sessions, while the control group participated only in the regular volleyball training sessions. Assessments pretraining and posttraining included countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, and agility T test.Results: Both experimental groups improved T-test performance (P < .005) but only agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group outperformed the control group (P < .05). Agility ladder training programs combined with either plyometric or speed drills can improve change of direction performance in young female volleyball players but only the combination of agility ladder with multidirection speed drills is more effective than volleyball training per se. The small effectiveness of these protocols may be attributed to the short training period, or to the fact that training elements were combined in a single session. This hypothesis remains to be further investigated.

Relationship between training volume and overuse injuries in female volleyball players

Problems and Purpose. Overuse injuries are a result of repetitive stress without sufficient recovery, and female volleyball players are known to have high risk of overuse injuries due to the cumulative impact of these repetitive actions. Overuse injuries can occur due to high training volume, which is important for skill development. This raises the potential for overuse injuries. For this reason, the study was conducted to evaluate the correlation between training volume and the incidence of overuse injuries in female volleyball players. Materials and methods. This study used a cohort research design to evaluate the correlation between training volume and the incidence of overuse injuries in female volleyball players, using a questionnaire to collect demographic data such as age, weight, height, exercise history, and previous injury history and OSTRC to collect data regarding the incidence, severity, and impact of overuse injuries on sport participation and daily activities. The sample consisted of 48 female volleyball players of Yusso Yogyakarta club. Results. Out of 48 respondents, 42 athletes had experienced injuries. Based on the OSTRC measurement there were 22 athletes had no injuries on their knees, while 12 athletes had mild injuries to their knees, 8 athletes had moderate injuries to their knees, 6 people had severe injuries to their knees and none. For lower back injuries, 12 athletes did not suffer any, 30 experienced mild injuries, 6 experienced moderate injuries, 6 experienced severe injuries, and 2 experienced very severe injuries. And for the shoulder area, there were 18 athletes were not injuried, 12 athletes had mild injuries, 14 athletes had moderate injuries, 2 athletes had severe injuries, and 2 others had suffered very severe injuries. The correlation between training volume and the incidence of overuse injuries in female volleyball players was tested using the Spearman test. It was found that the amount of training per week influence knee overuse injury with a significant value of 0.001. The amount of exercise per week also correlates with the incidents of low back overuse injury (significance value of 0.043) and overuse injuries in the shoulder area (significance value of 0.034). Conclusion. This study found that high volume training increases the risk of injury excess in female volleyball players, such as shoulder, knee and wrist injuries. Therefore, It is important to develop a balanced excercise program that includes rest periods and recovery to prevent injury.

The effect of sports specific warm-up on lower and upper extremity visual response time in female athletes

Background and Study Aim. Response time is one of the important parameters affecting performance in sports. The aim of this study was to investigate the visual response time of the upper (hand) and lower (foot) extremities after a warm-up activity applied to female football and volleyball players. Material and Methods. Eleven female football players and eleven volleyball players, aged 19.27 ± 1.93 years, with a height of 164.90 ± 8.07 cm, body weight of 57.00 ± 6.01 kg, and 6.40 ± 2.36 years of sports experience, participated in the study as volunteers. Visual response times for the upper and lower extremities were measured before and after the warm-up protocol. The warm-up began with static stretching exercises for 2 minutes. This was followed by aerobic jogging for 2.5 minutes at a heart rate of approximately 140 beats per minute. After that, activities involving dynamic joint mobility were performed for 5 minutes. Finally, a 2.5-minute, three-stage sport-specific warm-up was completed. In total, the warm-up protocol lasted 17 minutes. Results. Volleyball players' upper extremity visual response time did not show significant differences before and after warm-up (Z = -1.561, p = 0.119). Significant differences were found in the upper extremity visual response time of football players before and after warm-up (t = 2.887, p = 0.016). No significant difference was found in the comparison of volleyball and football players' pre-warm-up (t = 1.905, p = 0.071) and post-warm-up (U = 43.000, p = 0.247) two-hand visual response times. A significant difference was found in the comparison of volleyball players' lower extremity visual response times before and after warm-up (Z = -2.674, p = 0.007). No significant difference was found in the comparison of lower extremity visual response times of football players before and after warm-up (t = 2.132, p = 0.059). A significant difference was determined in the comparison of lower extremity visual response times of volleyball and football players before warm-up (t = 3.307, p = 0.004) and after warm-up (U = 20.000, p = 0.008). Conclusions. The findings highlight the importance of sport-specific warm-up protocols in preparing athletes for optimal performance. Implementing appropriate warm-up strategies can therefore be a key factor in maximizing athletic performance and maintaining long-term physical health in female athletes.

Investigation of the playing digital games on shoulder flexibility, muscle strength and reaction speed in volleyball players

Esports is a natural extension of digital games. Digital games provide a platform for players to showcase their skills, thereby forming the foundation of e-sports. These two domains continuously support each other, demonstrating significant growth in popularity and establishing a solid presence in the competitive landscape. Digital games require high levels of attention, strategy, reflexes, and coordination, offering pathways to reach the pinnacle of competition. The benefits derived from digital games enhance the ability to perform effectively under stress, making them crucial for both physical and mental performance. This study investigates the effects of digital gaming on the physical performance, shoulder flexibility, muscle strength and reaction speed of female volleyball players. A total of 50 female volleyball players took part, who were divided into two groups based on their digital playing habits: Group 1 consisted of female players who played video games for at least 4 h per day in the last 6 months, while Group 2 included those who played &amp;lt;4 h per day. In the study, the Activ5© Handheld Digital Dynamometer was used to measure the strength of the shoulder muscles during various movements, including flexion, hyperextension, abduction, internal rotation and external rotation. In addition, the BlazePod™ trainer device was used to assess reaction times. The results showed that volleyball players who frequently played digitally showed significant improvements in shoulder flexibility, especially in flexion of the non-dominant side. In addition, these players showed faster reaction times than those who played less frequently. However, a significant decrease in hyperextension muscle strength was observed in the group that frequently played digital games. The study highlights that while digital games can improve certain physical skills such as reaction speed and shoulder flexibility, they can also contribute to muscular imbalances or a decrease in muscle strength in certain areas. These findings suggest potential benefits for volleyball players, particularly in movements that require quick reflexes and flexibility, such as serving and spiking. However, the results also raise concerns about potential negative effects on muscle strength and posture, highlighting the need for balanced training programs to mitigate these effects. Further research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of digital games on athletic performance and physical health.

The influence of sexual dimorphism on the manifestation of coordination abilities of volleyball players aged 15-17

Background and Study Aim. Sexual dimorphism plays a crucial role in the design of training programs for athletes. Therefore, understanding the influence of sexual dimorphism on various abilities is essential for optimizing training regimens. The aim of this study is to determine the influence of sexual dimorphism on the manifestation of coordination abilities in young volleyball players aged 15–17. Material and Methods. Volleyball players aged 15–17 years participated in the study (n=92, training experience – 5–7 years). Fifty of them were girls, and forty-two were boys. Motor tests were used to determine the level of coordination preparedness of the volleyball players. The study assessed kinesthetic differentiation, spatial orientation, reaction, coupling, binding of movements, and balance skills. Statistical data processing was carried out using Microsoft Excel and SPSS programs. Results. For most of the compared indicators of coordination abilities, there was no significant difference between male and female volleyball players aged 15–17 (p&gt;0.05). In the “Shuttle run with back forward” test, which determined the ability of volleyball players to quickly rebuild motor activity, boys outperformed girls by 5.6% (p&lt;0.05). In the “Sprint test with the given rhythm”, boys significantly outperformed girls by 16.6% (p&lt;0.001). However, control exercises that determined the relative indicators of the above qualities did not show a significant difference. No significant differences (p&gt;0.05) were found in the indicators that characterized the subjects' ability to demonstrate balance in both groups. Girls outperformed boys by 4.2% in terms of sagittal displacement of the center of mass. Comparison of the magnitude of latent periods of simple and complex visual-motor reaction by groups did not reveal significant differences among boys and girls. Conclusions. The results of the study indicate the need to implement targeted training programs to address and mitigate gender differences in coordination abilities among young volleyball players. These programs should focus on enhancing specific coordination skills. This approach ensures balanced development. Purposeful sports training can help overcome inherent physiological differences. By doing so, it leverages the benefits of tailored training to promote equality in athletic performance.

Effects of Mild Fatigue on Biomechanics of Single Leg Landing in Young Male Volleyball Players.

To investigate the effects of mild fatigue on the biomechanics of the lower limbs of young male volleyball players while performing single leg landing tasks. A total of ten young male volleyball players were recruited as participants in this study. After the single leg landing was performed, we compared the performance between those with and without fatigue (post- and non-fatigue, respectively). Kinematics and kinetics were collected using instruments, and related captured data were imported into OpenSim to analyze the hip, knee, and ankle joints. We found that the ankle dorsiflexion angle at initial contact was significantly decreased in the post-fatigue group compared to the non-fatigue one. Meanwhile, the peak gluteus maximus force, peak gluteus medius force, peak tibialis posterior force, and peak gastrocnemius force significantly increased. There were no significant differences in the hip and knee joint flexion angles as well as the quadriceps and biceps femoris long head forces between the two groups. Mild fatigue can affect the performance of single leg landing, and players need to control the lower limbs by generating a higher muscle force to cope with the instability induced by fatigue. In a fatigued state, following initial contact with the ground, a decreased ankle dorsiflexion angle necessitates an increase in gastrocnemius and tibialis posterior muscle force to maintain stance during landing.

Biomechanic Differences Between Anticipated and Unanticipated Volleyball Block Jump: Implications for Lower Limb Injury Risk

Volleyball is a high-intensity sport characterized by repetitive jumping, sudden directional changes, and overhead movements, all of which significantly increase the risk of injuries, particularly to the shoulders, knees, and ankles. Despite the frequency of injuries caused by actions like blocking and spiking, there has been limited research focused on the specific biomechanical risk factors unique to volleyball. This study aimed to investigate the lower limb biomechanics during block jumps in both the dominant and non-dominant directions, under both anticipated and unanticipated conditions, in fifteen elite male volleyball players. Kinematic and kinetic data from the ankle, knee, and hip joints were recorded. Our results revealed statistically significant differences between the dominant and non-dominant directions at the ankle, knee, and hip joints. The non-dominant direction exhibited a greater ankle dorsiflexion angle and velocity, as well as higher knee flexion angle, velocity, moment, power, and abduction moment, along with increased hip flexion angle and power. Additionally, unanticipated movements led to increases in vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), hip extension moment, and flexion power, while ankle dorsiflexion plantarflexion velocity and knee flexion power decreased. It appears that movements in the dominant direction were stiffer and less cushioned, potentially increasing the risk of injury. While the non-dominant direction provided better shock absorption, it also elevated the knee valgus moment, which could increase the load on the knee. Furthermore, in unanticipated situations, athletes with short reaction times, unable to quickly adjust their automated movement patterns, faced a higher risk of limb overuse, thereby increasing the likelihood of injury. In practice, coaches should consider differences in limb coordination and movement direction, incorporating unilateral preventive exercises to reduce the risk of injury.

Long-term Prognosis of Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee) in Young, Elite Volleyball Players: Tendon Changes 11 Years After Baseline

Background: The long-term prognosis of jumper's knee and whether structural changes in the patellar tendon persist is unknown. Purpose: To investigate whether limitations in knee function and structural changes persisted beyond the athletic career of young elite volleyball players. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Volleyball players (mean ± SD age, 18 ± 0.8 years) enrolled in 2006-2011 in a prospective cohort study were invited in 2020-2022 to a follow-up study. Participants rated their knee function with the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment–Patellar Tendon (VISA-P) score (baseline and follow-up) and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score (follow-up) and reported if jumper's knee had influenced their decision to retire from sport. Tendon thickness and structural changes were assessed with ultrasound (baseline) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (follow-up) of both patellar tendons. Results: We included 138 of 143 former athletes (97%) 11.4 ± 1.6 years after their baseline examination. At baseline, 37 persons (52 knees) had developed jumper's knee. At follow-up, participants reported lower knee function scores in knees diagnosed with jumper's knee at baseline than healthy knees (VISA-P scores: jumper's knee, 81 [95% CI, 70-92]; healthy, 90 [95% CI, 86-94]; P < .001; IKDC scores: jumper's knee, 82 [95% CI, 75-89]; healthy, 92 [95% CI, 91-95]; P < .001). Jumper's knee problems directly caused 7 of the 37 athletes (19%) with jumper's knee at baseline to retire from competitive volleyball. Of the 138 players included, 97 (70%) completed a bilateral MRI examination (194 knees). At follow-up, 38 of the 54 abnormal tendons (70%) had no structural changes (P < .001 vs baseline) while 22 of the 140 normal tendons (16%) had developed structural changes. Clinical symptoms were not correlated with tendon structure at follow-up (VISA-P scores for normal tendons: 85 [95% CI, 73-87]; abnormal: 89 [95% CI, 85-92]; P = .48). Conclusion: Jumper’s knee is not a self-limiting condition; volleyball players who had developed jumper's knee during adolescence reported persistent reductions in knee function 11 years later, leading one-fifth to retire from competitive volleyball. Although approximately 70% of tendons with structural changes at baseline were normal at follow-up, there was no clear relationship between structure and function.

The Effect of a Rehabilitation Program Accompanied by Karo-Proketic to Rehabilitate the Injury of Minor Rupture of The Rectus Muscles in The Lumbar Region for Sitting Volleyball Players

The aim of this study was to examine whether or not a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program is effective in treating rectus muscle injuries in the lumbar region among volleyball players who have a tendency to sit for extended periods of time due to their sport. Pre- and post-tests were administered to the same group of volunteers who participated in this research. The study was an experiment. An experimental approach was used in the design of the investigation. At the sports competition that took place in 2024-2025, the individuals who took part in this research were members of the disabled sitting volleyball team that participated for the Anbar governorate. This analysis was carried out with the help of the SPSS software. According to the findings, the player's ability to bend forward and backward was significantly improved as a consequence of the rehabilitation exercises that were carried out. In the lumbar region, those people who had partial rips in the rectus muscle improved greatly from this practice. As a result of this, the researchers came up with the recommendation that these exercises should be maintained in order to either prevent new injuries from occurring or to improve ailments that were already existing.

A comparative Study of Aggressive Behaviours in Handball and Volleyball Players

A comparative Study of Aggressive Behaviours in Handball and Volleyball Players

Is the Rate of Force Development Produced in the Squat Jump a Reliable Metric and is it Related to Jump Height?

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the intrasession reliability of the rate of force development (RFD) in different time windows in squat jumps (SJ) performed at different knee starting angles, and identify the relationship of RFD with vertical jump height (VJH). Twenty male volleyball and basketball players participated. Athletes randomly performed SJ from four different knee-flexion angles. The RFD was analyzed from six different windows, from force onset to instant peak force, in each position using the ground reaction forces. Reliability analysis was performed based on the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV%); Spearman’s rho was used to test the relationship between RFD and VJH. The results demonstrated that RFD0-PF was the only variable assumed to be reliable, demonstrating an ICC > 0.84 and CV < 8.5% in all positions, and significant correlations between RFD metrics and VJH were observed at SJ70 and SJPREF. Some variables were underpowered due to the small sample size, as a limitation of the study.

Post-Lunch Napping as a Strategy to Enhance Physiological Performance and Cognitive Function in Elite Volleyball Players

Background and Objectives: Volleyball demands high levels of anaerobic strength, flexibility, agility, and mental focus. Adequate sleep has been shown to enhance athletic performance and cognitive function. This study investigates the impact of post-lunch naps of varying durations (25 and 45 min) on the physiological performance and cognitive focus of elite volleyball players. Materials and Methods: Sixteen elite volleyball players (8 male, 8 female) with at least 7 years of competitive experience participated in a randomized crossover study. They underwent three experimental conditions: no nap (No-Nap), a 25-min nap (N25), and a 45-min nap (N45). Physical performance was measured through counter-movement jumps (CMJ) and volleyball agility tests, while cognitive function was assessed using the D2 attention test. Statistical analysis included repeated measures ANOVA to examine the differences between nap conditions and gender-specific responses. Results: Significant improvements in both physical performance and cognitive focus were observed in the N25 and N45 conditions compared to the No-Nap condition (indicating the effectiveness of short naps in enhancing both physical and mental performance). Males outperformed females in most physical metrics, while females scored higher on the D2 attention test (suggesting possible gender-specific responses to napping). The 25-min nap showed slightly better results in terms of sleep quality and subsequent performance (confirming that shorter naps may be more beneficial). Conclusions: Post-lunch naps, especially of 25 or 45 min, enhance both physiological and cognitive performance in elite volleyball players. These findings suggest that integrating short naps into athletes’ training regimens can improve performance and focus, with potential gender-specific benefits. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and variations across other sports.