Yo-Yo Test Research Articles

Association between the attentional network efficiency and change of direction speed ability in young male Indian footballers

IntroductionInteractions between cognitive functions and sports-specific motor actions are crucial for strategic sports performance. Change of direction speed (CODS) is an essential motor ability required for rapid positional maneuvering in football. Although CODS lacks perceptual judgment and anticipatory elements of higher-level cognition, its connection with fundamental cognitive abilities cannot be undermined. The attentional networks is the basis of the fundamental cognitive abilities controlling complex behavior. The present study aimed to investigate the association between CODS ability and the efficiency of alerting, orienting, and executive components of the attentional networks, and decision-making in footballers.MethodsSeventy-eight male footballers (age: 15.4 ± 0.87 years, BMI: 19.4 ± 1.98 kg/m2) during pre-season completed a battery of field tests comprising Illinois agility test (IAT), 30 m sprint, standing broad jump, and Yo-Yo test. Attentional network components and decision-making ability were tested in the participants with computerized Attentional Network Test-Interactions (ANT-I) and choice reaction time (CRT) tasks in the laboratory set-up. A 2(alerting) ×3 (orienting) ×2 (executive) repeated measures ANOVA tested interactions between the attentional network components. Partial correlation was conducted between the physical (field tests) and cognitive test scores adjusted for age and BMI.ResultsCODS ability measured with IAT was significantly correlated [r = +0.507 (large), p < 0.05] with the executive control network only, nor with alerting [r = −0.039 (trivial), p > 0.05] and orienting [r = + 0.051 (trivial), p > 0.05] networks and neither the CRT task performance [r = −0.011 (trivial), p > 0.05].DiscussionA strong positive association between executive control and preplanned CODS indicates better interference control by the attentional network. The later may be a factor for faster CODS execution in young footballers. Hence, it may be concluded that better CODS ability is possibly an outcome of innate competence in executive control of the attentional network in young male footballers. These findings attempted to fill the knowledge gap by highlighting the importance of the attentional network functions in modulating CODS ability. The outcomes can benefit football training by implementing ANT-I test in sports-specific settings and for screening purposes. However in the future, a large-scale study including female footballers is required to strengthen this claim further.

INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS ON PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN PRE-SEASON PERIOD

Purpose. The pre-season period in football is of great importance in order to optimise the performance of athletes and minimise the risk of injury. The aim of this study was to follow the physiological parameters of the athletes in the first pre-season preparation phase and to determine their readiness levels. Material and Methods. Twenty-four professional licensed athletes aged between 18-35 (24.3±5.42) years participated in the study. The body weight and height of the athletes at the beginning of the season were 72.4±7.44 and 180.0±6.33, respectively. At the beginning and at the end of the first preparation phase, fat measurement, squat jump, overhead squat assessment and yo-yo endurance test were performed. Results. The fat percentage obtained as a result of the tests was 7.43±0.73 in the pretest and 6.99±0.65 in the post-test, 40.25±4.9 in the squat jump pre-test and 41.45±4.8 in the post-test, 17.33±3.5 in the overhead squat assessment pre-test and 19.50±2.1 in the post-test and 1723.3±307.6 in the squat jump pre-test and 1852.08±335.8 in the post-test. According to t-test data, statistically significant differences were found in fat percentage, squat jump, overhead squat evaluation and yoyo data (<.001). Conclusions. According to the results of the study, it can be said that the fat percentage, strength assessment, anaerobic power and endurance skills of the athletes improved in the first pre-season preparation phase

The effects of two different concurrent training programs on specific performance, physiological and biochemical parameters in soccer players

The study examined the effects of two concurrent training models, one being an eight-week High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and the other, High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) both with additional strength training (S), on physiological parameters (blood lactate concentration and heart rate), athlete's performance (maximal strength, explosive power, aerobic endurance, 20 m sprint), and biochemical outputs. The study involved a total of 21 young males playing with amateur soccer licenses for at least 2 years divided into three groups. One group received S + HIIT training, second group received S + HIFT training and the control group continued their soccer-specific training. Both the experimental and the control groups underwent pre- and post-tests and while only the experimental groups underwent an eight-week training program. Pre- and post-tests of the all the participants included measurements of body composition, adaptation studies, trial measurements, biochemical blood, aerobic endurance measurements, sprint tests, and strength measurements. The Mixed Design ANOVA analysis was utilized to examine the performance, physiological, and biochemical data of the participants before and after the experiment. Concurrent training models were effective in increasing athletic performance (VO2max, CMJ, 1RM bench press and Yo-Yo test) and physiological outcomes during recovery (HR, blood lactate, Borg Scale) compared to the control group with traditional training. There was no significant difference between the biochemical changes in the S + HIIT, S + HIFT and control groups during the trial period. In summary, both concurrent training (CT) models had positive effects on sports performance and physiological outcomes, but not on biochemical outcomes.

Reliability Of Maximum Heart Rate Estimation Equations In Athletes In The Field Football Base Category

The objective of this study was to verify the reliability of the HRmax prediction equations proposed by Fox, Tanaka and Nikolaidis in field football athletes who belong to the youth categories of a club in the first division of Brazilian league. One hundred and sixty-four players, aged between 14 and 20, took part in this study. In order to determine the athletes' HRmax (bpm), Yo-Yo Endurance Test Level 1 was used and defined as the highest value achieved during the test. Data were expressed as mean, standard deviation (SD) of the mean, minimum and maximum values.Independent Student's t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used in statistical analyses. The results showed that none of the three available equations (Fox, Tanaka and Nikolaidis) provide accurate HRmax values in a sample of youth football players, underestimating or overestimating HRmax values. The equation that provided the most accurate HRmax was the Nikolaidis equation. This result is probably due to the fact that this equation was developed based on an example of a football player.

Tracking Changes in Physical Performance and Match Outputs in Elite Female Field Hockey Players Over an Olympic Cycle: A Follow-Up Study

This research aimed to analyse the physical performance and game-related statistics of 17 international female hockey players across an Olympic cycle, exploring whether these metrics changed synchronously. Data from 24 physical performance tests and 102 matches, monitored with 10 Hz GPS units, were evaluated. Minimal variability was observed in the 30 m sprint performance (Coefficient of Variation, CV = 2.3 ± 0.8%), while the greatest variability was found in pull-up tests (CV = 35.8 ± 12.1%). Significant temporal improvements were noted in the YoYo test (p < 0.001), and sprint times for 10m and 30m distances (p < 0.001 for both). Strength, muscular endurance, and neuromuscular metrics also enhanced significantly over time (p < 0.008). Reactive Strength Index (RSI), improved over time (p < 0.008), but none of the values differed significantly from the first test. On average, players covered 5469 ± 1159 m per match, with no significant change in high-speed running distance (637 ± 246 m) across the five years. However, the average running speed did increase (114 ± 13 m.min−1 ;p< 0.001). The findings elucidate the performance benchmarks for elite female hockey players and suggest that advancements in individual performance tests do not necessarily correlate with match statistics, underscoring the complexity of athletic progression and its implications for player management.

Comparative Analysis of the Physical, Tactical, Emotional, and Mood Characteristics of Under-13 Soccer Players by Performance Level.

Background and Objectives: Soccer is a sport characterized by various unpredictable situations in which physical abilities are associated with athletic performance. There are several capabilities that young soccer players must develop to adapt to the needs of the competition. This study analyzes the physical characteristics, tactical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and mood states of youth soccer players at different competitive levels. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 36 male soccer players with an average age of 12.65 ± 0.48 years, weight of 44.92 ± 7.49 kg, and height of 157.2 ± 0.08 cm. A cross-sectional correlational study design was selected. Inferential analysis was conducted via the RV coefficient to assess relationships between groups. Two-sample tests (Student's t test or the Mann-Whitney U test) were used to assess the distribution of the samples. Standardized mean differences (i.e., Cohen's d) were calculated as effect sizes. Results: For the yo-yo intermittent endurance test level 1, the Premier category showed higher speed (p = 0.01, d = 0.40) and superior estimated VO2max (p = 0.01, d = -0.91). The statistically significant variables included the hamstring strength exercise of the hamstrings for the angle of rupture (p = 0.04, d = -0.04, d = -0.72), the COD-Timer 5-0-5 for contact time-5-0-5 (ms) (p = 0.04, d = 0.69) and 10 m-5-0-5 (s) (p = 0.02, d = 0.79), tactical knowledge of in-game performance (p = 0.01, d = -1.19), support level (p = 0.01, d = -1.27), decision-making ability (p = 0.01, d = 0.59), melancholy (p = 0.01, d = 0.59), confusion (p = 0.01, d = 0.56), and emotional intelligence (p = 0.04, d = 0.77). The Premier category presented slightly higher averages than did category A. In the assessment of running-based anaerobic sprint test power (p < 0.05, d = 0.83) and mood states (p < 0.05, d = 0.59), players in category A presented higher results. Conclusions: The performance capacity of youth soccer players encompasses a multidimensional complexity that includes physical, tactical, emotional, and psychological aspects, which vary among players of the same age.

Association between iron and vitamin intake and cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescents of both sexes

Abstract Cardiovascular parameters and cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescents may be influenced by eating habits. The aim was to evaluate the association between the levels of some nutrients and micronutrients with blood pressure and VO2max in adolescents. A total of 60 adolescents (15.77 ± 0.96 years old) participated in the study, of whom 35 were girls and 25 were boys. Eating habits were assessed frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Before and after a cardiorespiratory fitness test (YOYO TEST), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were collected. A backward elimination method of multiple regression was performed to analyse the data. A positive association was found between VO2max and the intake of iron (), vitamin D (), vitamin B6 () and vitamin B12 () for girls. Additionally, no significant associations were found between sugar, fibre and fat intake and VO2max. There was a positive association between SBP and sugar intake () for girls and negative association between DBP after exertion and fibre intake () and body mass index () for boys. There is a positive association between the intake of iron, vitamins and VO2max in girls and intake of sugar with SBP for girls and negative association between fibres and DBP after exertion for boys.

Performance variables and nutritional status analysis from Moroccan professional and adolescent football players during the competition period: a descriptive study.

Nutrition plays an integral role in optimizing football players' performance during training sessions and matches and maintaining their overall health throughout the season. This study aimed to evaluate how well the dietary practices of professional and adolescent football players in Morocco during the competitive period met international macronutrient recommendations, and to explore the relationship between their nutritional status and aerobic performance, as measured by the Yo-Yo IRL1 test. A total of 277 footballers from Morocco's professional league, "Botola-Pro", were monitored over a seven-day (training microcycle) during the competitive period. The dietary intake was assessed through self-reported methods and 24-hour recalls. Relevant body composition was measured with bioelectrical impedance (BI), and aerobic performance was evaluated using the Yo-Yo IR test. The results indicated significant variations in performance and nutritional status across different categories and age groups. The nutritional status of the players didn't match the UEFA recommendations (p < 0.001). We found that higher intake levels of carbohydrates and proteins were positively correlated with the total distance covered by the players (p < 0.001, r = 0.63, R2 = 0.4 for carbohydrates; p < 0.001, r = 0.59, R2 = 0.35 for proteins). Conversely, a higher proportion of energy derived from fats in the diet was negatively correlated with the distance covered (p < 0.001, r = -0.64, R2 = 0.41). These findings suggest that optimizing carbohydrates and protein intake while managing fat consumption is crucial for enhancing sporting performance. This information is essential for tailoring training programs and nutritional regimens based on the competition level.

An Effective Method of Aerobic Capacity Development: Combined Training with Maximal Aerobic Speed and Small-Sided Games for Amateur Football Players

This study aimed to investigate the effects of combined training with maximal aerobic speed and small-sided games on football players’ aerobic capacity development. Methods: The football players were divided into three groups as a combined training group (n = 20) (Mean ± SD age 23.40 ± 2.92 yrs, BMI was 23.67 ± 1.59 kg/m2, mass: 74.80 ± 5.46 kg, height: 177.73 ± 4.31 cm), maximal aerobic speed group (n = 20) (Mean ± SD age 23.93 ± 2.46 yrs, BMI was 23.32 ± 1.42 kg/m2, mass: 72.66 ± 5.38 kg, height: 176.46 ± 4.99 cm) and regular training group (n = 20) (Mean ± SD age 24.80 ± 5.84 yrs, BMI was 22.87 ± 1.67 kg/m2, mass: 73.06 ± 6.74 kg, height: 178.33 ± 7.98 cm). In addition to regular football training, maximal aerobic speed training with small-sided games was applied to the combined training group (CT) and only maximal aerobic speed training was applied to the maximal aerobic speed group (MAS) twice a week for 12 weeks. The normal training group (NT) continued their routine football training programme. All participants applied the Yo-Yo IR1 test in the pre-test and post-test of the study. As a result of normality tests, it was determined that the data showed normal distribution, and the ANOVA test and Tukey’s multiple comparison test were used in the intergroup evaluation. Results: When the Yo-Yo IR1 Test pre-test and post-test results were analysed, maximal aerobic speed training with small-sided games (CT) and maximal aerobic speed (MAS) groups were significantly higher compared to the normal training (NT) group regarding training load, running distance, and VO2max value among the football players (p = 0.001). There was no difference in the normal training group (p &gt; 0.05). As a result, it was determined that combined training with maximal aerobic speed, small-sided games, and only maximal aerobic speed effectively improved football players’ aerobic capacity and general performance.

Feature importance for estimating rating of perceived exertion from cardiorespiratory signals using machine learning.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the importance of respiratory features, relative to heart rate (HR), when estimating rating of perceived exertion (RPE) using machine learning models. A total of 20 participants aged 18 to 43 were recruited to carry out Yo-Yo level-1 intermittent recovery tests, while wearing a COSMED K5 portable metabolic machine. RPE information was collected throughout the Yo-Yo test for each participant. Three regression models (linear, random forest, and a multi-layer perceptron) were tested with 8 training features (HR, minute ventilation (VE), respiratory frequency (Rf), volume of oxygen consumed (VO2), age, gender, weight, and height). Using a leave-one-subject-out cross validation, the random forest model was found to be the most accurate, with a root mean square error of 1.849, and a mean absolute error of 1.461 ± 1.133. Feature importance was estimated via permutation feature importance, and VE was found to be the most important for all three models followed by HR. Future works that aim to estimate RPE using wearable sensors should therefore consider using a combination of cardiovascular and respiratory data.

Effects of Caffeinated Chewing Gum on Ice Hockey Performance after Jet Lag Intervention: Double-Blind Crossover Trial.

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of caffeinated chewing gum on the physical performance of elite ice hockey players after a jet lag intervention. Fourteen national-level (age: 25.2 ± 5.4; height: 176.5 ± 5.3; weight: 78.1 ± 13.4) ice hockey players were tested late at night after a full day awake schedule with jet lag. A randomised, double-blind experimental design was employed in which participants either chewed caffeinated gum (CAF) containing 3 mg/kg caffeine or a caffeine-free placebo gum (PLA) for 10 min prior to undertaking a series of on-ice and off-ice tests. The off-ice tests included grip force, the counter-movement jump (CMJ), and the squat jump (SJ). The on-ice tests included a 35 m sprint, the S-Shape agility test, and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (Yo-Yo IR1 test). The CMJ height (CAF: 47.2 ± 4.4; PL: 45.9 ± 3.5; p = 0.035; Cohen's d = 0.32) and SJ height (CAF: 46.7 ± 4.1; PL: 44.9 ± 3.8; p = 0.047; Cohen's d = 0.44) were found to be significantly higher in the CAF than in the PL trial. However, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in grip force, as well as in the 35 m sprint, the S-Shape agility test, and the Yo-Yo IR1 test. The present study found that, following a jet lag intervention, although the consumption of caffeinated gum resulted in an increase in vertical jump height, it had no impact on performance in the ice tests. The results of this study may help coaches and athletes consider the need for caffeine supplementation when experiencing jet lag.

Study of the Relationship Between Specialised Physical Fitness and Repeated Sprinting Ability in University Football Players

Objective: To explore the relationship between specialised physical quality and repeated sprinting ability of university football players, and to provide theoretical basis for improving repeated sprinting ability and sports level of university football players. Methods: 29 athletes from the Chizhou University varsity football team were selected as test subjects using the method of intentional sampling to measure their specialised physical fitness and repeated sprinting ability, and Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were used to explore the relationship between specialised physical fitness and repeated sprinting ability. Results: The YO-YO test, 5*25 m run, 30 m run and T-run had different degrees of positive or negative correlation with RSAbest and RSAmean in the specialised physical fitness. 67.4% of the maximal recurrent sprinting ability could be explained by the YO-YO test, 5*25 m run, 30 m run and T-run; 61.2% of the average recurrent sprinting ability could be explained by the YO-YO test, 5*25 m run and 30 m run. 61.2% of average repeated sprinting ability. Conclusion: Specialised physical fitness of university football players is related to repeated sprinting ability, and improving specialised physical fitness is conducive to enhancing repeated sprinting ability of football players.

Anaerobic and Aerobic Metabolic Capacities Contributing to Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 2 Test Performance in Australian Rules Footballers.

This study aimed to identify the aerobic and anaerobic metabolic performance capacities contributing to Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery level 2 (Yo-Yo IR2) test performance. Nineteen recreational Australian footballers completed a Yo-Yo IR2 test, and on another day a treadmill peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and maximal accumulated oxygen deficit test in a randomised counter-balanced order. The maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) procedures included 5 × 5 min sub-maximal continuous runs at progressively higher speeds whilst VO2 was recorded; thereafter, speed was incrementally increased to elicit VO2peak. After 35 min of rest, participants ran at a speed equivalent to 115% of VO2peak until exhaustion, at which point expired air was collected to determine maximal accumulated oxygen deficit. Relationships between variables were assessed using Pearson's correlation and partial correlations. Maximum aerobic speed, relative intensity, and VO2peak were significantly correlated with Yo-Yo IR2 performance. High Yo-Yo IR2 performers also had higher MAS, relative intensity, and VO2peak levels. However, when higher maximum aerobic speed, relative intensity, and VO2peak were controlled for each other and analysed independently, neither maximal aerobic speed nor VO2peak correlated with Yo-Yo IR2 performance. Yo-Yo IR2 performance is the result of a complex interaction between several variables. Training programs should primarily focus on improving VO2peak, maximal aerobic speed, and relative intensity to optimize Yo-Yo IR2 test performance.

Examining the Relationship Between Yo-Yo Intermittent Rest Test Results and Performance in Football Players

The purpose of your study; The aim is to determine the relationship between aerobic endurance and the performance of football players. 30 licensed football players (age 18,33±0,47 years, height 179,5±10,6 cm, body weight 76,6±11,5 kg) playing in the Turkish Football Federation U-19 Development League voluntarily participated in the research. Football players' Yo-Yo IRT1 test was measured twice at eight-week intervals on an artificial football field. During the test, Heart rate (HR) (beats/min) and afterwards Maximal Aerobic Power (VO2max) values were measured and calculated. Paried T-test, one of the parametric tests, was used to determine whether there was a difference in terms of Yo-Yo IRT 1 test, VO2max values and pulse values. All analyzes were processed at the 0.05 significance level. In conclusion; There is no statistically significant difference p&amp;gt;0.005 between the first and last values of the distances traveled by the football players who were subjected to the Yo-Yo IR1 test first and last measurement test, their HR and their measured VO2max values.

Adaptive cognitive tasks for mental fatigue: An innovative paradigm for cognitive loading in human performance

Mental fatigue (MF) can impair cognitive and physical performance in sport. We tested the hypothesis that a shorter adaptive Time Load Dual Back (TLDB) task induces MF faster than a longer Stroop; and subsequently impairs cognitive and intermittent running performance. This study employed a randomized within-participant design. 25 trained individuals performed a Yo-Yo test after one of four experimental conditions (30-min Stroop, 20-min and 10-min TLDB tasks, and active control). Cognitive performance was assessed using the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) before and after the experimental conditions. Measures of mood, workload, MF, RPE, heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV) and blood lactate were collected. ANOVAs determined the effect of the 4 conditions. Stroop and 20-min TLDB conditions impaired running performance similarly (p = .015), while no differences are reported for 10-min TLDB and Control. No significant differences in physiological parameters were reported during the Yo-Yo test although RPE was significantly higher in the Stroop and 20-min TLDB conditions (p = .014). Stroop and both TLDBs conditions impaired PVT's cognitive performance (p = .029), MF (p = .012), mental demand (p < .001), HR (p = .021) and HRV (p = .033); with 20-min TLDB task having the higher significant impact. Mood alterations were similar between Stroop and TLDB conditions. Intermittent running (Yo-Yo) and cognitive (PVT) performances, and subjective ratings were impaired by 30-min Stroop and 20-min TLDB tasks; while 10-min TLDB did not to impair performance. Shorter adaptive modes seem to be more effective in inducing MF and could have relevant clinical applications to assess conditions such as traumatic brain injury and concussion.

Interactions between Stress Levels and Hormonal Responses Related to Sports Performance in Pro Women's Basketball Team.

The testosterone to cortisol ratio (T:C ratio) is a measure of whether elite athletes are recovering from their training. This study described this hormone balance stress in elite women's basketball. (1) Objectives: to analyse the fluctuation of T:C ratio over a 16-week period and explore itis relation to their athletic performance. The participants characteristics were: (height: 177.6 ± 6.4 cm; body mass: 77.808 ± 12.396 kg age: 26.0 ± 5.9 years; and a playing experience of 14.7 ± 2.9 years with 5.0 ± 1.2 years at the elite level. The T:C ratio at Time 1 is: 4.0 ± 2.4 (n = 12); and at Time 2 is: 5.1 ± 4.3 (n = 12). (2) Methods: during 16 weeks of competition, participants underwent analysis of blood samples to assess various biochemical parameters including hormone levels. In addition, their athletic performance was assessed with the following tests: jumping (SJ, CMJ, ABK, DJ); throwing test with a medicine ball (3 kg); Illinois COD agility test; sprint repeatability with change of direction; 20-m speed test without change of direction; and Yo-yo intermittent endurance test IET (II). (3) Results: The main alterations observed were an increase in T levels (1.687%) and a decrease in C levels (-7.634%) between moments, with an improvement (26.366%) in the T:C ratio. Improvements were also observed in some of the tests developed, such as jumping (SJ: 11.5%, p = 0.029; CMJ: 10.5%, p = 0.03; DJ: 13.0%, p = 0.01), upper body strength (MBT: 5.4%, p = 0.03), translation ability (20 m: -1.7%), repeated sprint ability (RSA: -2.2%), as well as intermittent endurance test (Yy (IET): 63.5%, p = 0.01), with significant changes in some of the performance tests. (4) Conclusions: T:C ratio may differ in a manner unrelated to training volume, showing some variation. These results may be attributed to the accumulation of psychophysiological stress during the season.

A 10-week implementation of the FIT FIRST FOR ALL school-based physical activity concept effectively improves cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in 7-16-year-old schoolchildren.

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of the FIT FIRST FOR ALL school-based physical activity program on health-related physical fitness in Faroese schoolchildren. The program aimed to add three weekly sessions of organized high-intensity physical activity to the standard weekly physical education sessions for all pupils across the entire school. A non-randomized controlled design was used to evaluate the effects of the program. Two schools participated, including one intervention school (INT; n =179) and one control school (CON; n =181), with pupils aged 7-16 years (grades 1-9). The FIT FIRST FOR ALL program consisted of three weekly 40-minute sessions of age-adjusted high-intensity physical activity over 10 weeks for the INT school, while the CON school continued their normal school program. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included cardiorespiratory fitness (Yo-Yo IR1C test), agility (Arrowhead Agility test), postural balance (Stork Stand), standing long jump performance, body composition, blood pressure, and resting heart rate. A significant time × group effect (p < 0.001) was observed for cardiorespiratory fitness, which increased by 31% [23;39] in INT (p < 0.001) and remained unaltered in CON (7% [-2;16], p = 0.13). In addition, a time × group effect (p < 0.001) was observed for agility, which improved by 2.1% [1.0;3.2] in INT (p < 0.001) and regressed by 3.3% [2.3;4.4] in CON (p < 0.001). No significant between-group effects were found for standing long jump and balance. A time × group effect (p < 0.001) was observed for changes in total muscle mass, which increased by 1.4 kg [1.2;1.5] in INT (p < 0.001) and by 0.4 kg [0.3;0.6] in CON (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a time × group effect (p < 0.001) was observed for total fat percentage, which decreased by -2.3% [-2.8;-1.9] in INT (p < 0.001) and remained unchanged in CON (-0.3% [-0.7;0.1], p = 0.16). No significant time × group effects were found for blood pressure and resting heart rate. The FIT FIRST FOR ALL program significantly improved cardiorespiratory fitness and agility, and it led to favorable changes in body composition in the intervention school. These findings suggest that the program is highly effective in enhancing physical fitness and health status across all investigated age groups when implemented at a school-wide level.

Effects of a circuit training program in improving cardiorespiratory fitness, upper extremity strength, and agility in paraplegic subjects

Exercise and sports may play a crucial role for individuals with disabilities due to their restricted levels of physical activity. Among people with disabilities, engaging in sports and exercise has the potential to notably enhance their physical and physiological functioning. Consequently, the aim of this research was to investigate the effects of a circuit training program on the cardiorespiratory fitness, musculoskeletal strength, and agility of wheelchair users. The study involved 28 participants with paraplegia as a result of spinal cord injury, aged between 19 and 40 years, who were divided into two groups: an experimental group (EG, n = 14) participating in circuit training, and a control group (CG, n = 14) undergoing aerobic upper-body exercise exclusively. All subjects took part in the wheelchair yo-yo test and hand grip test, both conducted at the commencement and conclusion of the training period. The results displayed a significant Time x Group interaction for both variables, indicating a substantial improvement in the intervention group (p &lt; 0.001), while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Therefore, the findings suggest that incorporating circuit training into the daily routine of wheelchair users has a positive impact on their overall well-being, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. Key words: physiology; exercise; sport; spinal cord injuries; cardiorespiratory fitness.

High-Intensity Interval Training and Physiological Demands in Wheelchair Tennis Players: A Pilot Study

Wheelchair Tennis is a dynamic sport that necessitates a blend of speed, agility, quickness, strength, power, and endurance. An athlete not only requires these attributes but also must maintain a high-performance level throughout an extended season. Consequently, adjustments in programming are essential to enhance cardiorespiratory capacity, upper-body strength, and agility proficiency in a manner that incorporates intermittent features. One viable approach is the utilization of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) methodology. Consequently, the aim of this research was to evaluate the alterations in cardiorespiratory fitness, musculoskeletal strength, and agility proficiency among wheelchair tennis athletes following a HIIT regimen. The study involved 30 wheelchair tennis players with spinal cord injuries aged between 19 and 28 years. They were divided into an experimental group, which participated in a HIIT program [EG, n = 15], and a control group, which adhered to a standard training regimen [CG, n = 15]. All participants underwent anthropometric assessments, the wheelchair yo-yo test, and hand grip evaluation. The results displayed a significant Time x Group interaction for the yo-yo test and hand grip evaluation, indicating a marked improvement in the intervention group (p &lt; 0.001). Conversely, no substantial changes were observed in the control group. Therefore, it could be claimed that that the inclusion of a HIIT protocol in the daily training regime leads to a significant positive influence on the cardiorespiratory fitness, musculoskeletal strength, and agility capabilities of wheelchair tennis players. Key words: physiology; exercise; sport; spinal cord injuries; cardiorespiratory fitness

Symmetric analysis in a wheelchair basketball player during an incremental intermittent test: a case study

BACKGROUND: Wheelchair basketball (WB) is a sport aimed at people with permanent disabilities in the lower limbs, with a functional classification system that allows the inclusion of various levels of injury from 1 to 4.5. Thus, it is natural that there is an increase in the search for greater sports performance which is related to physiological and kinematic analyses. AIM: The present study aimed to compare the symmetry of temporal kinematic variables in the different zones of effort intensity during an incremental intermittent field test. METHOD: The sample consisted of 1 male player aged (27 years), with spinal cord injury, with more than 5 years of gaming experience. The player performed the incremental field Yo-Yo Test - IR1 and the linear kinematics of the propulsive cycle was estimated. RESULTS: The results indicated that wheelchair propulsion is a symmetrical movement, although some asymmetries seem to be perceived qualitatively, but without a statistically significant difference. CONCLUSION: It was found that despite the injury to the right shoulder, there is symmetry in terms of wheelchair propulsion.