Sports

18 pages, 1400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“It’s Important, but It’s Not Everything”: Practitioners’ Use, Analysis and Perceptions of Fitness Testing in Academy Rugby League

by Sam McCormack, Ben Jones, Sean Scantlebury, Dave Rotheram and Kevin Till

Sports 2020, 8(9), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090130 - 18 Sep 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4018

Abstract

A plethora of research exists examining the physical qualities of rugby league players. However, no research has investigated practitioners’ insights into the use, analysis and perceptions of such fitness testing data that is vital for applying research into practice. Therefore, this study aimed [...] Read more.

A plethora of research exists examining the physical qualities of rugby league players. However, no research has investigated practitioners’ insights into the use, analysis and perceptions of such fitness testing data that is vital for applying research into practice. Therefore, this study aimed to examine practitioners’ (coaches and strength & conditioning [S&C] coaches) perceptions and challenges of using fitness testing and the development of physical qualities. Twenty-four rugby league practitioners were purposefully sampled and completed a semi-structured interview. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed identifying five themes (it’s important, but it’s not everything; monitoring; evaluation and decision making; motivation; and other external challenges). The theme of “it’s important, but it’s not everything” emerged as a fundamental issue with regard fitness testing and the use of such data and that physical data alone does not inform coaches decisions. There appears conflicts between coaches and S&C coaches’ perceptions and use of fitness data, identifying complexities of supporting players in multidisciplinary teams. Collectively, the findings highlight the multifaceted nature of academy rugby league and suggest that practitioners should utilise fitness testing to inform player evaluations, positively influence training and assist with decision making. Moreover, practitioners should understand the combination of factors that influence fitness testing and work collaboratively to enhance talent development strategies. Full article

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12 pages, 760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Velocity to Predict the Maximum Dynamic Strength in the Power Clean

by G. Gregory Haff, Amador Garcia-Ramos and Lachlan P. James

Sports 2020, 8(9), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090129 - 18 Sep 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3794

Abstract

The primary aim of the present study was to examine the commonly performed training exercise for athlete preparation. Twenty-two recreationally trained males (age: 26.3 ± 4.1 y, height: 1.80 ± 0.07 m; body mass (BM): 87.01 ± 13.75 kg, 1-repetitoon maximum(1-RM)/BM: 0.90 ± [...] Read more.

The primary aim of the present study was to examine the commonly performed training exercise for athlete preparation. Twenty-two recreationally trained males (age: 26.3 ± 4.1 y, height: 1.80 ± 0.07 m; body mass (BM): 87.01 ± 13.75 kg, 1-repetitoon maximum(1-RM)/BM: 0.90 ± 0.19 kg) participated in the present study. All subjects had their 1-RM power clean tested with standard procedures. On a separate testing day, subjects performed three repetitions at 30% and 45%, and two repetitions at 70% and 80% of their 1-RM power clean. During all trials during both sessions, peak velocity (PV) and mean velocity (MV) were measured with the use of a GymAware device. There were no significant differences between the actual and estimated 1-RM power clean (p = 0.37, ES = −0.11) when the load-PV profile was utilized. There was a large typical error (TE) present for the load-PV- and load-MV-estimated 1-RM values. Additionally, the raw TE exceeded the smallest worthwhile change for both load-PV and load-MV profile results. Based upon the results of this study, the load-velocity profile is not an acceptable tool for monitoring power clean strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Resistance Training)

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41 pages, 392 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

International Sport Forum of the Strength & Conditioning Society (SCS) and the European Sport Nutrition Society (ESNS)

by Pedro E. Alcaraz, Robert Csapo, Tomás T. Freitas, Elena Marín-Cascales, Anthony J. Blazevich and Antonio Paoli

Sports 2020, 8(9), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090128 - 16 Sep 2020

Viewed by 6032

Abstract

On behalf of the Strength & Conditioning Society (SCS) and the European Sport Nutrition Society (ESNS), we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 2019 International Sport Forum on Strength & Conditioning & Nutrition, which took place in Madrid, Spain from November [...] Read more.

On behalf of the Strength & Conditioning Society (SCS) and the European Sport Nutrition Society (ESNS), we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 2019 International Sport Forum on Strength & Conditioning & Nutrition, which took place in Madrid, Spain from November 15th–16th 2019. The meeting provided evidence-based education to advance the science and practice on the fields of sport nutrition, training, rehabilitation and performance. It also disseminated cutting-edge sport nutrition and strength and conditioning research, promoted the translation of basic science into the field and fostered the future of the field by providing young practitioners and researchers with the opportunity to present their findings through oral and poster communications, the abstracts of which can be found in this Special Issue of Sports. Renowned international and national speakers provided comprehensive updates, workshops and insights into novel scientific topics covering various areas of sport nutrition and strength and conditioning science. We were fortunate to have a wide range of speakers and presenters from all areas—strength training, conditioning to prevent injuries and improve performance, nutrition and supplementation for fitness and high-performance sports. A data-flash and poster session allowed for the presentation of the latest results of current research. Most importantly, the meeting provided ample opportunities to bring people together to discuss practical questions related to training and nutrition and plan scientific projects. With cutting-edge research and best practice in mind, this joint conference was an important means to pursue the missions of the SCS and ESNS. Rather than being a single event, the forum in Madrid was the starting point for a series of regular meetings on Strength & Conditioning & Nutrition to be held worldwide, so make sure to visit the websites of the SCS and ESNS and follow us on social media to receive updates and connect with our members. We proudly look back on an exciting, inspiring and informative meeting in Madrid! Full article

13 pages, 712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of an Initial Muscle Strength Level on Sports Performance Changes in Collegiate Soccer Players

by Ai Ishida, Kyle Rochau, Kyle P. Findlay, Brandon Devero, Marco Duca and Michael H. Stone

Sports 2020, 8(9), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090127 - 15 Sep 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3462

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to investigate effects of partial block periodized strength training on physical performance and to examine relationships between initial muscle strength measured with isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and performance changes after 7 weeks of strength training. Seventeen collegiate [...] Read more.

The purposes of this study were to investigate effects of partial block periodized strength training on physical performance and to examine relationships between initial muscle strength measured with isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and performance changes after 7 weeks of strength training. Seventeen collegiate male soccer players participated. Initial muscle strength was determined using IMTP while physical performance included 10 m and 20 m sprints and static vertical jump with a polyvinyl chloride pipe (SJ0), 20 kg barbell (SJ20), and barbell loaded to 40 kg bar (SJ40). Performance testing was performed at three points: before first week (baseline), fourth week (T1), and seventh week (T2). Statistically small to moderate changes were found from baseline to T2 in peak power (PP; p < 0.001, ES = 0.49), net impulse (NI; p < 0.001, ES = 0.49), peak velocity (PV; p < 0.001, ES = 0.62), allometrically scaled PP (PPa; p < 0.001, ES = 0.62) in SJ20 and jump height (JH) in SJ40 (p < 0.001, ES = 0.36). Moderate to large correlations were found between isometric peak force and the changes from baseline to T2 in SJ20 PP (p = 0.04, r = −0.49), SJ20 PF (p = 0.03, r = −0.52), PPa (p = 0.04, r = −0.50), and SJ20 allometrically scaled peak force (p = 0.04, r = −0.49). Properly structured strength training maximizes task-specific physical performance. Initial muscle strength negatively affects the magnitudes of adaptations to physical performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Performance of Collegiate or College-Aged Athletes)

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12 pages, 5599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Specificity of Motor Learning Tasks Determines the Kind of Skating Skill Development in Older School-Age Children

by Dominik Novak, Adam Tomasek, Patrycja Lipinska and Petr Stastny

Sports 2020, 8(9), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090126 - 14 Sep 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2945

Abstract

The specificity of motor learning tasks for skating development in older school-age children has not been sufficiently explored. The main objective was to compare the effects of training programs using change-of-direction (COD) speed exercises and partial skating task (SeqT) training on speed and [...] Read more.

The specificity of motor learning tasks for skating development in older school-age children has not been sufficiently explored. The main objective was to compare the effects of training programs using change-of-direction (COD) speed exercises and partial skating task (SeqT) training on speed and agility performance in U12 ice hockey players. Thirteen young ice hockey males (13 ± 0.35 years, 41.92 ± 9.76 kg, 152.23 ± 9.41 cm) underwent three straight speed (4 and 30 m with and without a puck) and agility testing sessions before and after six weeks of COD training and then after a six-week intervention involving partial skating task (SeqT) training. The statistics were performed using magnitude-based decision (MBD) analysis to calculate the probability of the performance change achieved by the interventions. The MBD analysis showed that COD training had a large effect (11.7 ± 2.4% time decrease) on skating start improvement (straight sprint 4 m) and a small effect (−2.2 ± 2.4%) on improvement in agility with a puck. Partial skating task (SeqT) training had a large effect (5.4 ± 2.5%) on the improvement of the 30-m sprint with a puck and moderate effect on agility without a puck (1.9 ± 0.9%) and likely improved the 30-m sprint without a puck (2.6 ± 1.3%). COD training on the ice improves short starts and agility with a puck, while partial skating tasks (SeqT) target longer 30-m sprints and agility without a puck. Therefore, both types of training should be applied in accordance with motor learning tasks specific to current training needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization of Human Performance and Health)

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17 pages, 432 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tapering and Peaking Maximal Strength for Powerlifting Performance: A Review

by S. Kyle Travis, Iñigo Mujika, Jeremy A. Gentles, Michael H. Stone and Caleb D. Bazyler

Sports 2020, 8(9), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090125 - 09 Sep 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 20561

Abstract

Prior to major competitions, athletes often use a peaking protocol such as tapering or training cessation to improve performance. The majority of the current literature has focused on endurance-based sports such as swimming, cycling, and running to better understand how and when to [...] Read more.

Prior to major competitions, athletes often use a peaking protocol such as tapering or training cessation to improve performance. The majority of the current literature has focused on endurance-based sports such as swimming, cycling, and running to better understand how and when to taper or use training cessation to achieve the desired performance outcome. However, evidence regarding peaking protocols for strength and power athletes is lacking. Current limitations for peaking maximal strength is that many studies do not provide sufficient details for practitioners to use. Thus, when working with athletes such as powerlifters, weightlifters, throwers, and strongman competitors, practitioners must use trial and error to determine the best means for peaking rather than using an evidence-based protocol. More specifically, determining how to peak maximal strength using data derived from strength and power athletes has not been established. While powerlifting training (i.e., back squat, bench press, deadlift) is used by strength and power athletes up until the final days prior to a competition, understanding how to peak maximal strength relative to powerlifting performance is still unclear. Thus, the purpose of this study was to review the literature on tapering and training cessation practices relative to peaking powerlifting performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Periodization and Programming in Sports)

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20 pages, 713 KiB

Open AccessReview

Isokinetic Dynamometry as a Tool to Predict Shoulder Injury in an Overhead Athlete Population: A Systematic Review

by Andrea Bagordo, Kimberly Ciletti, Kevin Kemp-Smith, Vini Simas, Mike Climstein and James Furness

Sports 2020, 8(9), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090124 - 08 Sep 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5623

Abstract

Prospective and cross-sectional studies have used pre-season isokinetic dynamometry strength and endurance measurements of shoulder internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) to determine if they can be correlated to injury. However, to date, no review has provided a synthesis of all available [...] Read more.

Prospective and cross-sectional studies have used pre-season isokinetic dynamometry strength and endurance measurements of shoulder internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) to determine if they can be correlated to injury. However, to date, no review has provided a synthesis of all available literature on this topic. The aim of this systematic review was to identify isokinetic dynamometry studies that assess shoulder IR and ER strength and endurance in the overhead athletic population in relation to shoulder injury. Electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and SportDiscus) were searched through September 2019 using pre-determined search terms. Both prospective and cross-sectional studies were included in this review. Studies were assessed for quality using either Appraisal Tool for Cross-sectional Studies (AXIS) or Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Data on outcome measures of strength and endurance peak torque (PT) and ratios (ER:IR) were extracted and further analysed using a best evidence synthesis approach. A total of 13 articles met the inclusion criteria. Conflicting evidence was found when reviewing all studies without differentiating by study type. Prospective study designs revealed strong evidence that reduced IR endurance and reduced strength ratios are predictive of shoulder injury. Cross-sectional literature showed only conflicting and limited evidence for all outcome measures. At this stage, more research is needed in individual sporting populations using prospective cohort designs. Full article

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25 pages, 670 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Application of Critical Power, the Work Capacity above Critical Power (W′), and Its Reconstitution: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Implications for Cycling Training Prescription

by Alan Chorley and Kevin L. Lamb

Sports 2020, 8(9), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090123 - 04 Sep 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 10453

Abstract

The two-parameter critical power (CP) model is a robust mathematical interpretation of the power–duration relationship, with CP being the rate associated with the maximal aerobic steady state, and W′ the fixed amount of tolerable work above CP available without any recovery. The aim [...] Read more.

The two-parameter critical power (CP) model is a robust mathematical interpretation of the power–duration relationship, with CP being the rate associated with the maximal aerobic steady state, and W′ the fixed amount of tolerable work above CP available without any recovery. The aim of this narrative review is to describe the CP concept and the methodologies used to assess it, and to summarize the research applying it to intermittent cycle training techniques. CP and W′ are traditionally assessed using a number of constant work rate cycling tests spread over several days. Alternatively, both the 3-min all-out and ramp all-out protocols provide valid measurements of CP and W′ from a single test, thereby enhancing their suitability to athletes and likely reducing errors associated with the assumptions of the CP model. As CP represents the physiological landmark that is the boundary between heavy and severe intensity domains, it presents several advantages over the de facto arbitrarily defined functional threshold power as the basis for cycle training prescription at intensities up to CP. For intensities above CP, precise prescription is not possible based solely on aerobic measures; however, the addition of the W′ parameter does facilitate the prescription of individualized training intensities and durations within the severe intensity domain. Modelling of W′ reconstitution extends this application, although more research is needed to identify the individual parameters that govern W′ reconstitution rates and their kinetics. Full article

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1 pages, 153 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Kaiseler, M., et al. The Impact of an Outdoor and Adventure Sports Course on the Wellbeing of Recovering UK Military Personnel: An Exploratory Study. Sports 2019, 7(5), 112

by Mariana Kaiseler, Chris Kay and Jim McKenna

Sports 2020, 8(9), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090122 - 03 Sep 2020

Viewed by 1724

Abstract

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Wellbeing in an Outdoor and Adventure Sports Context)

11 pages, 825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Resistance Exercise Intensity on Acute Hyperglycemia in Young Adult Males

by Evan E. Schick, Luis E. Segura, Shayán Emamjomeh and Joshua A. Cotter

Sports 2020, 8(9), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090121 - 03 Sep 2020

Viewed by 2869

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of resistance exercise (RE) intensity on acute hyperglycemia, in young adult males. Thirteen males (age 23.43 ± 2.18 years, height 175.16 ± 10.44 cm, weight 77.02 ± 8.91 kg, body fat 20 ± [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of resistance exercise (RE) intensity on acute hyperglycemia, in young adult males. Thirteen males (age 23.43 ± 2.18 years, height 175.16 ± 10.44 cm, weight 77.02 ± 8.91 kg, body fat 20 ± 0.03%) participated in three randomized testing sessions, each separated by 96 h. The three testing conditions were: control (CON; induction of hyperglycemia with no-exercise), high (HI; induction of hyperglycemia followed by high-intensity RE: 5 × 4, 90% 1-repetition maximum (1-RM)), and moderate (MO; induction of hyperglycemia followed by low-intensity RE: 3 × 14, 65% 1-RM). In all three testing conditions, participants orally ingested a D100 (100 g/10 oz) glucose beverage at a dosage of 2 g glucose/kg body weight and capillary blood was obtained for plasma glucose and insulin analysis at 0 (fasting), 30, 60, 90 and 120 min, following glucose ingestion. At 30-min post-ingestion in the HI and MO conditions, participants began the respective RE protocols. Acute hyperglycemia was achieved throughout all three 2-h testing conditions; mean 2-h plasma glucose levels during CON (7.1 ± 1.3 mmol∙L⁻¹), MO (7.5 ± 0.6 mmol∙L⁻¹) and HI (8.2 ± 1.9 mmol∙L⁻¹) were all significantly (p < 0.05) greater than mean fasting plasma glucose (5.6 ± 0.46 mmol∙L⁻¹). Plasma glucose and insulin did not differ (p < 0.05) between treatment conditions at any times points over the 120 min, however, 2-h glucose area under the curve in the HI condition was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than CON and MO. In conclusion, this study indicates that hyperglycemia, induced prior to RE, may be exacerbated by high-intensity RE. Full article

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15 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Motor Competence, Physical Self-Perception and Autonomous Motivation for Physical Activity in Children

by Ole Kristian Ensrud-Skraastad and Monika Haga

Sports 2020, 8(9), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090120 - 01 Sep 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

Research indicates that children and adolescents gradually participate less in physical activity with age. Several factors are associated with children’s physical activity levels, such as motor performance, self-perception of athletic competence and motivation to physical activity. To gain a better understanding of the [...] Read more.

Research indicates that children and adolescents gradually participate less in physical activity with age. Several factors are associated with children’s physical activity levels, such as motor performance, self-perception of athletic competence and motivation to physical activity. To gain a better understanding of the factors of importance for behavior related to an active lifestyle, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association between motor competence, physical self-perception and autonomous motivation and to examine to what extent this association may vary by sex. The sample consisted of 101 children, whose average age was 11.7 years (SD = 0.57), 53 boys and 48 girls. All subjects were measured on motor competence, physical self-perception and autonomous motivation for physical activity. The results indicate a low positive relationship between motor competence and physical self-perception for the entire sample and among girls. There is also a significant correlation between autonomous motivation and physical self-perception. No significant correlations were found between autonomous motivation and motor competence. The association between physical self-perception and autonomous motivation suggests that psychological factors play an important role in children’s participation in physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motor Competence in a Life Span Perspective)

10 pages, 1086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Static Stretching Results in Muscle-Specific Alterations amongst the Hamstring Muscles

by Manon Riccetti, Jules Opplert, Joao L. Q. Durigan, Carole Cometti and Nicolas Babault

Sports 2020, 8(9), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090119 - 30 Aug 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3394

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the acute effects of static stretching on the musculotendinous properties of two hamstring muscles. Twelve male volunteers underwent two testing sessions. One session was dedicated to the evaluation of the semitendinosus muscle before (PRE) and after (POST) static [...] Read more.

This study aimed to explore the acute effects of static stretching on the musculotendinous properties of two hamstring muscles. Twelve male volunteers underwent two testing sessions. One session was dedicated to the evaluation of the semitendinosus muscle before (PRE) and after (POST) static stretching (five sets of 30-s stretching), and the other session similarly explored the long head of biceps femoris muscle. In addition to the displacement of the myotendinous junction (MTJ), passive torque and maximal voluntary isometric torque (MVIT) were evaluated. MVIT (−8.3 ± 10.2%, p = 0.0036, d = 0.497) and passive torque (−28.4 ± 16.9%, p = 0.0003, d = 1.017) were significantly decreased POST stretching. PRE stretching, MTJ displacement was significantly greater for semitendinosus muscle than biceps femoris muscle (27.0 ± 5.2 vs. 18.6 ± 3.6, p = 0.0011, d = 1.975). After the stretching procedure, greater MTJ displacement relative changes were observed for biceps femoris muscle as compared to semitendinosus muscle (22.4 ± 31.6 vs. −8.4 ± 17.9, p = 0.0167, d = 1.252). Because of the smaller MTJ displacement PRE stretching and greater alteration POST stretching in biceps femoris muscles, the present study demonstrated muscle-specific acute responses of hamstring muscles during stretching. Although stretching acutely impairs torque production, the passive torque reduction and alteration of MTJ displacement might impact hamstring injury prevention. Full article

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16 pages, 602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Survey of Barbell Trajectory and Kinematics of the Snatch Lift from the 2015 World and 2017 Pan-American Weightlifting Championships

by Aaron J. Cunanan, W. Guy Hornsby, Mark A. South, Kristina P. Ushakova, Satoshi Mizuguchi, Kimitake Sato, Kyle C. Pierce and Michael H. Stone

Sports 2020, 8(9), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090118 - 25 Aug 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6831

Abstract

Analysis of elite performances is important to elucidate the characteristics of effective weightlifting technique contributing to the highest level of achievement. The general technique of the weightlifting movements is well established. However, it is also apparent that weightlifting technique can differ based on [...] Read more.

Analysis of elite performances is important to elucidate the characteristics of effective weightlifting technique contributing to the highest level of achievement. The general technique of the weightlifting movements is well established. However, it is also apparent that weightlifting technique can differ based on athlete characteristics. Thus, existing technical models may not accurately reflect current technique of top performers or be applied generically to athletes of different skill, size, sex, or ability. Therefore, the purpose of this descriptive study was to update the scientific knowledge of snatch technique of top international weightlifters. This study used video analysis to determine barbell trajectory and kinematics of 319 successful snatch attempts from two major international competitions. Relative frequencies of barbell trajectory types differed based on competition, sex, category, and ranking. No statistical differences were observed among the top-three performers for either sex for most kinematic variables, and there were no overall discernible patterns of effect size differences for individual or clusters of kinematic variables. The results of this study indicate that weightlifting success can be achieved with a variety of technique profiles. Full article

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13 pages, 1985 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Reliability of the Polar Vantage M Sports Watch when Measuring Heart Rate at Different Treadmill Exercise Intensities

by Mike Climstein, Jessica L. Alder, Alyce M. Brooker, Elissa J. Cartwright, Kevin Kemp-Smith, Vini Simas and James Furness

Sports 2020, 8(9), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090117 - 23 Aug 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4100

Abstract

Background: Usage of wrist-worn activity monitors has rapidly increased in recent years, and these devices are being used by both fitness enthusiasts and in clinical populations. We, therefore, assessed the test–retest reliability of the Polar Vantage M (PVM) watch when measuring heart rate [...] Read more.

Background: Usage of wrist-worn activity monitors has rapidly increased in recent years, and these devices are being used by both fitness enthusiasts and in clinical populations. We, therefore, assessed the test–retest reliability of the Polar Vantage M (PVM) watch when measuring heart rate (HR) during various treadmill exercise intensities. Methods: HR was measured every 30 s (simultaneous electrocardiography (ECG) and PVM). Test–retest reliability was determined using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest real difference (SRD) were used to determine measurement variability. Results: A total of 29 participants completed the trials. ICC values for PVM during stages 1, 2 and 5 demonstrated good to excellent test–retest reliability (0.78, 0.78 and 0.92; 95% CI (0.54–0.90, 0.54–0.9, 0.79–0.97)). For PVM during stages 0 (rest), 3 and 4, the ICC values indicated poor to good reliability (0.42, 0.68 and 0.58; 95% CI (−0.27–0.73, 0.32–0.85, 0.14–0.80)). Conclusion: This study identified that the test–retest reliability of the PVM was comparable at low and high exercise intensities; however, it revealed a poor to good test–retest reliability at moderate intensities. The PVM should not be used in a clinical setting where monitoring of an accurate HR is crucial to the patients’ safety. Full article

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10 pages, 575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological and Race Pace Characteristics of Medium and Low-Level Athens Marathon Runners

by Aristides Myrkos, Ilias Smilios, Eleni Maria Kokkinou, Evangelos Rousopoulos and Helen Douda

Sports 2020, 8(9), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090116 - 21 Aug 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4520

Abstract

This study examined physiological and race pace characteristics of medium- (finish time < 240 min) and low-level (finish time > 240 min) recreational runners who participated in a challenging marathon route with rolling hills, the Athens Authentic Marathon. Fifteen athletes (age: 42 ± [...] Read more.

This study examined physiological and race pace characteristics of medium- (finish time < 240 min) and low-level (finish time > 240 min) recreational runners who participated in a challenging marathon route with rolling hills, the Athens Authentic Marathon. Fifteen athletes (age: 42 ± 7 years) performed an incremental test, three to nine days before the 2018 Athens Marathon, to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂ max), maximal aerobic velocity (MAV), energy cost of running (ECr) and lactate threshold velocity (vLTh), and were analyzed for their pacing during the race. Moderate- (n = 8) compared with low-level (n = 7) runners had higher (p < 0.05) VO₂ max (55.6 ± 3.6 vs. 48.9 ± 4.8 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹), MAV (16.5 ± 0.7 vs. 14.4 ± 1.2 km·h⁻¹) and vLTh (11.6 ± 0.8 vs. 9.2 ± 0.7 km·h⁻¹) and lower ECr at 10 km/h (1.137 ± 0.096 vs. 1.232 ± 0.068 kcal·kg⁻¹·km⁻¹). Medium-level runners ran the marathon at a higher percentage of vLTh (105.1 ± 4.7 vs. 93.8 ± 6.2%) and VO₂ max (79.7 ± 7.7 vs. 68.8 ± 5.7%). Low-level runners ran at a lower percentage (p < 0.05) of their vLTh in the 21.1–30 km (total ascent/decent: 122 m/5 m) and the 30–42.195 km (total ascent/decent: 32 m/155 m) splits. Moderate-level runners are less affected in their pacing than low-level runners during a marathon route with rolling hills. This could be due to superior physiological characteristics such as VO₂ max, ECr, vLTh and fractional utilization of VO₂ max. A marathon race pace strategy should be selected individually according to each athlete’s level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 9th Greek Conference of Biochemistry and Physiology of Exercise)

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10 pages, 1556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Body Composition and Its Relationship to Performance in Elite Female Track and Field Athletes Transitioning to the Senior Division

by Yuka Tsukahara, Suguru Torii, Fumihiro Yamasawa, Jun Iwamoto, Takanobu Otsuka, Hideyuki Goto, Torao Kusakabe, Hideo Matsumoto and Takao Akama

Sports 2020, 8(9), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports8090115 - 20 Aug 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3428

Abstract

Many elite female athletes struggle to maintain performance while transitioning from high school to university-level (senior) sports. This study explores factors of body composition that influenced performance in elite junior female track and field athletes transitioning to the senior division. Forty-two elite female [...] Read more.

Many elite female athletes struggle to maintain performance while transitioning from high school to university-level (senior) sports. This study explores factors of body composition that influenced performance in elite junior female track and field athletes transitioning to the senior division. Forty-two elite female track and field athletes, ranked among the top 100 in Japan, were enrolled in this study. Whole-body mode dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans were performed during the post-season of 2016 and 2017. Athletes’ performances were assessed using the International Association of Athletics Federation scoring system. Relationships between changes in performance and those in body composition were investigated. There were significant negative correlations between changes in performance and fat mass (FM), and percentage FM (FM%). This was seen in total body and lower extremities, and not in the trunk and upper extremities. In addition, there was a positive correlation between changes in performance and percentage lean mass (LM%). However, there were no correlations between changes in performance and LM and total mass. Elite female track and field athletes transitioning to senior division should decrease their FM and FM% and increase LM%, to sustain or improve performance. It is also more important to monitor changes in body composition than body mass. Full article

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