International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

2023

Jump to: 2022, 2021, 2020

13 pages, 594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Upper Secondary School Pupils’ Experience of a Lifestyle Plan Based on Physical Power, Mental Harmony, and Social Capacity

by Fredrik Lygnegård, Marie Alricsson and Anna Hafsteinsson Östenberg

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054532 - 03 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1167

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to illustrate upper secondary school pupils’ experience using a self-administered web-based health-promoting tool, the Swedish Physical Power, Mental Harmony, and Social Capacity (FMS) student profile. Method: Five upper secondary schools in Sweden were included. Focus group interviews with pupils [...] Read more.

Purpose: This study aimed to illustrate upper secondary school pupils’ experience using a self-administered web-based health-promoting tool, the Swedish Physical Power, Mental Harmony, and Social Capacity (FMS) student profile. Method: Five upper secondary schools in Sweden were included. Focus group interviews with pupils (10 girls, 5 boys, 15–19 years) were conducted, and data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Result: Two themes were generated from six categories: a sense of participation and self-control of health: everyday well-being, objective formulation, disappointment, health awareness, limitations, and health-promoting change. The participants experienced that using the FMS made them aware of factors that influence their health. They also reported that being given feedback visually from the FMS, peers, and staff involved in the school was beneficial in increasing their motivation to maintain a health-promoting change regarding physical activity and lifestyle factors. Conclusion: The use of a self-administered web-based health-promoting tool is viewed as beneficial for raising awareness and motivation to implement strategies that help attain a healthier lifestyle in upper secondary school students regarding factors affecting perceived health. Full article

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9 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Activity Patterns According to the Type of Physical Education Classes by Sex and Obesity among Korean Adolescents

by Gyuil Lee, Seyong Jang and Sunga Kong

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043151 - 10 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1380

Abstract

This study aimed to compare physical activity patterns according to the type of physical education by sex and body mass index categories among Korean adolescents. We analyzed physical activity using an accelerator in a physical education class among Korean middle school students (1305 [...] Read more.

This study aimed to compare physical activity patterns according to the type of physical education by sex and body mass index categories among Korean adolescents. We analyzed physical activity using an accelerator in a physical education class among Korean middle school students (1305 boys and 1328 girls). An independent t-test and regression analysis were conducted to compare differences between the obesity groups by sex. As game play time increased, light activity increased in boys in the normal group. Among the girls, sedentary time decreased in the normal, at-risk for obesity, and obese groups. Moderate activity increased in the underweight, normal, at-risk for obesity, and obese groups. Vigorous activity increased in the normal group. As free activity time increased, sedentary time also increased in the normal, at-risk for obesity, and obese groups. Vigorous activity decreased in the normal group. Among the girls, sedentary time increased in the underweight group. Light activity decreased in the underweight and normal groups. A strategy to increase physical activity during physical education class is to increase game play time for girls and decrease free activity time for boys. Full article

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13 pages, 664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Online-Delivered eHealth Literacy Intervention on eHealth Literacy and Health Behavior Outcomes among Female College Students during COVID-19

by Miyoung Roh and Yoonkyung Won

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 2044; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20032044 - 22 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1762

Abstract

This study examined the effects of a novel online-delivered eHealth literacy intervention to improve eHealth literacy and positive health behaviors among female college students during COVID-19. Female college students taking a physical education class were allocated to either an online-based eHealth literacy intervention [...] Read more.

This study examined the effects of a novel online-delivered eHealth literacy intervention to improve eHealth literacy and positive health behaviors among female college students during COVID-19. Female college students taking a physical education class were allocated to either an online-based eHealth literacy intervention group (n = 62) or a physical education class (n = 58). Weekly two-hour sessions were implemented through Zoom videoconferencing over six weeks. We measured eHealth literacy, exercise self-schemata, and health behavior outcomes (eating, sleep, and exercise) before and after the intervention. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to examine within- and between-group differences in all outcomes. The ANOVA (2 × 2) for the interaction effect of group and time showed a statistical significance in eHealth literacy and cognitive-emotional exercise self-schemata. There was a marginally significant interaction effect for exercise but none for eating and sleep. This was the first trial to examine the impact of the online eHealth literacy intervention on eHealth literacy and health behavior outcomes for college students during COVID-19. Preliminary findings indicated that the intervention showed promising effectiveness for improving eHealth literacy and promoting health behaviors among female college students. Full article

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11 pages, 1150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Incidence of Sport Injuries in the Manchester 2019 World Taekwondo Championships: A Prospective Study of 936 Athletes from 145 Countries

by Hee Seong Jeong, Dae Hyoun Jeong, David M. O’Sullivan, Hyung-Pil Jun, Min Jin Kim, Inje Lee, Hyung Gyu Jeon and Sae Yong Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20031978 - 20 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1748

Abstract

We aimed to describe injury incidence and patterns at the 2019 World Taekwondo Championships (WTC), and to compare them with those of previous WTCs, based on new World Taekwondo (WT) competition rules, medical codes, and the Protector and Scoring System (PSS). This prospective [...] Read more.

We aimed to describe injury incidence and patterns at the 2019 World Taekwondo Championships (WTC), and to compare them with those of previous WTCs, based on new World Taekwondo (WT) competition rules, medical codes, and the Protector and Scoring System (PSS). This prospective cohort study utilized data obtained through the WT Injury Surveillance System. All athletes with injuries were evaluated by on-site sports medicine specialists, and ultrasonography was used to assess all musculoskeletal injuries. Of 936 athletes, 60 injuries were recorded (6.4 injuries/100 athletes, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 4.8–8.0), and 4.5% (n = 42) sustained at least one injury. Males had a higher risk of sustaining injuries than females (incidence rate ratio: 1.57; 95% CI: 0.89–2.76). The most common sites, type, and mechanism were lower extremities (n = 26, 43.33%), contusion/hematoma/bruises (n = 33, 55.0%), and contact with another athlete (n = 50, 83.33%). Overall, the injury patterns associated with the mechanism of injury were similar in both the 2019 and 2017 WTCs. Refined WT competition rules and a re-established PSS at the 2019 WTC reduced the overall and severe injury incidence. Our findings can help revise Taekwondo competition rules, enhance protective equipment, optimize on-site venue medical systems, and develop injury prevention projects. Full article

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2022

Jump to: 2023, 2021, 2020

11 pages, 1454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Pilates Training on Body Composition and Isokinetic Muscular Strength in Adolescent Baseball Players

by Jang Soo Yook, Da Yoon Kim, Dong Hun Choi, Min-Seong Ha and Yoon Young Hwang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12085; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912085 - 24 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1554

Abstract

Body composition and muscular strength are important for baseball skills and successful performance. Conditioning training programs have the potential to enhance athletic performance via physiological changes. In this single-group interventional study, we investigated the effect of 8 weeks of Pilates training (PT) on [...] Read more.

Body composition and muscular strength are important for baseball skills and successful performance. Conditioning training programs have the potential to enhance athletic performance via physiological changes. In this single-group interventional study, we investigated the effect of 8 weeks of Pilates training (PT) on contralateral and regional body composition, and isokinetic muscular strength in knee and trunk flexion/extension in adolescent baseball players. In our results, PT increased both right- and left-sided lean mass in the trunk. Following PT, work per repetition and average power showed significant increases in the flexion and extension of the left knee only. PT significantly decreased the peak torque of the trunk flexor and increased the average power of the trunk extensor. In addition, the ratio of the trunk flexion/extension strength of peak torque showed a decreasing trend, whereas that of work and average power did not change significantly following PT. In conclusion, PT evenly improved lean mass on both the right and left sides of the body. Knee and trunk strength increased after PT. Our findings suggest that PT may be a useful strategy for enhancing athletic performance in regard to the muscular strength of adolescent baseball players. Full article

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16 pages, 382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Physical Fitness among Elementary and Middle School Students in Korea before and after COVID-19

by Eui-Jae Lee, Dong-il Seo, Seung-Man Lee and Jong-Hyuck Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11712; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811712 - 16 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1846

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze changes in health-related physical fitness among Korean elementary and middle school students before (2019) and after (2021) the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collection was completed by requesting the physical activity promotion system (PAPS) data from elementary and middle [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to analyze changes in health-related physical fitness among Korean elementary and middle school students before (2019) and after (2021) the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collection was completed by requesting the physical activity promotion system (PAPS) data from elementary and middle school students. This information is obtained annually by the Goyang Office of Education in Gyeonggi-do, Korea. The collected data were measured in 2019 and 2021. Data were collected from 17,000 children in the fifth and sixth grades of elementary school and about 24,000 boys and girls in the first, second, and third grades of middle school. Chi-square analyses were used to examine data from each school’s health-related physical fitness examinations. Our results indicated that physical fitness levels were significantly lower in 2021 than in 2019 across the following six areas: cardiorespiratory endurance, power, muscular strength, flexibility, obesity, and overall health-related physical fitness (p < 0.05). In addition, the ratio of students with excellent physical fitness (PAPS Grades 1 and 2) significantly decreased from 2019 to 2021, while the ratio of students with poor physical fitness (PAPS Grades 3, 4, and 5) increased (p < 0.05). In addition, there were some differences according to grade and gender. Discussions regarding the impact of decreases in physical activity on physical fitness, interpretations of physical fitness in the context of a pandemic, and practical measures that can be implemented to improve health and fitness among children and adolescents in such situations remain essential. Full article

10 pages, 1226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Attention Capacity and Hand–Eye Reaction Time in Adolescents between 15 and 18 Years of Age

by Álvaro Huerta Ojeda, Patricio Lizama Tapia, Jaime Pulgar Álvarez, Claudia González-Cruz, María-Mercedes Yeomans-Cabrera and Juan Contreras Vera

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10888; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710888 - 01 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1990

Abstract

Some experiences demonstrate a direct correlation between attention capacity and reaction capacity. However, the evidence from adolescents enrolled in the Chilean school system is scarce. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between attention capacity and hand–eye reaction time (RT) [...] Read more.

Some experiences demonstrate a direct correlation between attention capacity and reaction capacity. However, the evidence from adolescents enrolled in the Chilean school system is scarce. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between attention capacity and hand–eye reaction time (RT) in adolescents between 15 and 18 years of age. Thirty-one adolescents participated voluntarily in this study. The variables were: attention capacity, evaluated through the Evalúa-10 battery (item 1.1), and hand–eye RT, assessed through a simple RT test (SRT) and complex RT (CRT). The relationship between the variables was performed through Pearson’s correlation. Comparisons between males and females were performed with the t-test for independent samples (p ˂ 0.05). There was a moderate correlation between attention and CRT (r = −0.43), a very high correlation between attention and SRT in males (r = −0.73), and between attention and CRT in females (r = −0.73). Between males and females, there was no difference in attention (p ˃ 0.05), while males showed better RT in all tests (p ˂ 0.05). Attention positively influences hand–eye RT in both males and females. Likewise, male adolescents present better hand–eye RT than their female peers. Full article

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12 pages, 1015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Effect of Physical Fitness and Dietary Intake on the Relationship of Physical Activity with Body Composition in High School Students

by André Bento, Luis Carrasco and Armando Raimundo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7301; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127301 - 14 Jun 2022

Viewed by 1639

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity (PA) and health-related physical fitness (PF) in adolescents and analyze if the associations of PA with body composition (BC) in adolescents are mediated by physical fitness or energy intake (EI). The participants were 236 [...] Read more.

We aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity (PA) and health-related physical fitness (PF) in adolescents and analyze if the associations of PA with body composition (BC) in adolescents are mediated by physical fitness or energy intake (EI). The participants were 236 adolescents (140 girls 16.1 ± 0.92 years). Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) was assessed using the Yo-YoITL1, and the push-up test was used to evaluate strength. BCs were measured on an electrical weight scale. Triaxial accelerometers were used to determine PA levels and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) levels. EI was estimated with a validated questionnaire. Mediation effects were estimated using bootstrapped 95% confidence intervals and were deemed significant if zero was not included in the intervals. The mediation analysis revealed an indirect effect of MVPA only through PF on BC, specifically through CRF on body fat (B = −0.0146, 95% BootCI (−0.0219; −0.0076)) and on lean body mass (B = 0.0096, 95% BootCI (0.0049; 0.0152)), as well as through upper body strength on body fat (B = −0.012, 95% BootCI (−0.0171; −0.0072)) and on lean body mass (B = 0.0059, 95% BootCI (0.003; 0.0095)). These results suggest that PA of at least a moderate intensity is relevant to BC and health-related PF in adolescents, regardless of the EI. Full article

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13 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychosocial Characters and Their Behavioural Indexes for Evaluation in Secondary School Physical Education Classes and Sports Club Activities

by Namki Cho, Minhye Shin and Hyunkyun Ahn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6730; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116730 - 31 May 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1454

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore students’ psychosocial characteristics presumably nurtured in school physical education (PE) and school sports club activities in Korea. In addition, this study attempted to investigate what actual behaviours for each characteristic are observed and could be [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to explore students’ psychosocial characteristics presumably nurtured in school physical education (PE) and school sports club activities in Korea. In addition, this study attempted to investigate what actual behaviours for each characteristic are observed and could be evaluated. Previous studies related to secondary students’ character development in school sports clubs and school PE classes were investigated at the initial stage, and then a panel of 3 experts and 4 host researchers reviewed and selected 9 characteristics and 30 behaviours. Two replicates of a modified Delphi analysis and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with 25 and 50 PE teachers respectively were performed and reached 7 characteristics and 21 behavioural indexes and their hierarchy. The content validity ratio (CVR) for seven characteristics in two replicates of a modified Delphi analysis was 0.93. The highest CVR was 1.00 while the lowest was 0.68. The highest CVR among 21 behaviour indexes was 1.00 while the lowest was 0.52, which implied that all the characteristics and the behaviour indexes are valid. In the stage of AHP for each characteristic’s hierarchy, “Earnestness” was ranked highest with a weight of 0.215, while “Leadership” was ranked lowest at 0.044 (consistency index and consistency ratio < 0.1). ‘Disengaged observation/late in class,’ ‘helping peer,’ and ‘opinion coordination’ shared the highest score at 0.091 while ‘taking initiatives’ was placed lowest with 0.010 in the list of 21 behaviour indexes. The results helped infer that PE teachers consider development of interpersonal characteristics and the level of articulation for behaviour indexes important. Full article

11 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Diet and Exercise-Induced Weight Loss among Metabolically Healthy and Metabolically Unhealthy Obese Children and Adolescents

by Qin Yang, Kun Wang, Qianqian Tian, Jian Zhang, Linyu Qi and Tao Chen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 6120; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19106120 - 18 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2209

Abstract

Objective: To study the effect of diet- and exercise-based lifestyle intervention on weight loss (WL) and cardiovascular risk among metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) children and adolescents. Methods: The sample included 282 obese individuals (54% males, age (±SD) 12.9 [...] Read more.

Objective: To study the effect of diet- and exercise-based lifestyle intervention on weight loss (WL) and cardiovascular risk among metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) children and adolescents. Methods: The sample included 282 obese individuals (54% males, age (±SD) 12.9 (±2.3) years) who completed a 3- to 4-week WL camp program between 2017 and 2019. MUO was defined according to the consensus-based definition of pediatric MHO in 2018. Results: The intervention exhibited significantly benefits in improving body weight, body mass index, body fat ratio, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), resting heart rate (RHR), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein–cholesterol levels in both MHO and MUO groups (for all comparisons, p < 0.01). However, the beneficial high-density lipoprotein–cholesterol (HDL-C) level (both p < 0.01) decreased evidently in both groups after intervention. In addition, percent changes in SBP (p < 0.001), DBP (p < 0.001), RHR (p = 0.025), fasting blood glucose (p = 0.011), and TG (p < 0.001) were more profound in MUO group than that in MHO group. Conclusion: Metabolical health is a mutable and transient state during childhood. Although both groups gained comparable WL benefits from diet- and exercise-based lifestyle intervention, the MUO group may benefit more than the MHO group. Strategies aiming at lowering blood pressure and preventing the decrease of HDL-C level should be considered for the precise treatment of childhood obesity in clinical practice, with the goal of improving metabolically healthy state. Full article

19 pages, 2526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a 6-Month Aerobic Exercise Intervention on Mood and Amygdala Functional Plasticity in Young Untrained Subjects

by Angelika Maurer, Julian Klein, Jannik Claus, Neeraj Upadhyay, Leonie Henschel, Jason Anthony Martin, Lukas Scheef, Marcel Daamen, Theresa Schörkmaier, Rüdiger Stirnberg, Tony Stöcker, Alexander Radbruch, Ulrike I. Attenberger, Martin Reuter and Henning Boecker

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 6078; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19106078 - 17 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2242

Abstract

Acute exercise has beneficial effects on mood and is known to induce modulations in functional connectivity (FC) within the emotional network. However, the long-term effects of exercise on affective brain circuits remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of 6 months of [...] Read more.

Acute exercise has beneficial effects on mood and is known to induce modulations in functional connectivity (FC) within the emotional network. However, the long-term effects of exercise on affective brain circuits remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of 6 months of regular exercise on mood, amygdala structure, and functional connectivity. This study comprised N = 18 healthy sedentary subjects assigned to an intervention group (IG; 23.9 ± 3.9 years; 3 trainings/week) and N = 10 subjects assigned to a passive control group (CG; 23.7 ± 4.2 years). At baseline and every two months, performance diagnostics, mood questionnaires, and structural and resting-state-fMRI were conducted. Amygdala-nuclei segmentation and amygdala-to-whole-brain FC analysis were performed. Linear mixed effects models and correlation analyses were conducted between FC, relVO_2max, and mood scores. Data showed increases in relVO_2max exclusively in the IG. Stronger anticorrelation in amygdala-precuneus FC was found, along with a stronger positive correlation in the amygdala-temporal pole FC in the IG after 4 and 6 months, while mood and amygdala volume did not reveal significant interactions. The relVO_2max/amygdala-temporal pole FC correlated positively, and the amygdala-precuneus/amygdala-temporal pole FC correlated negatively. Findings suggest that exercise induced long-term modulations of the amygdala FC with the precuneus and temporal pole, shedding light on potential mechanisms by which exercise has positive influences on mood-related networks, typically altered in affective disorders. Full article

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19 pages, 1959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Body Composition and Physical Fitness and the Effect of Exercise According to the Level of Childhood Obesity Using the MGPA Model

by Chae Kwan Lee, Young Kyun Sim, Jae-Hoon Lee, Jang Soo Yook, Soo-Min Ha, Eun Chul Seo, Wi-Young So, Hyun Ryun Kim, Woo-Min Jeong, Bong Oh Goo, Jin-Wook Chung and Min-Seong Ha

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010487 - 02 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4053

Abstract

Childhood obesity can lead to adulthood obesity with adverse effects. Since body composition and physical fitness differ depending on the obesity degree, a systemic analysis could help classify that degree. We used three study designs based on the obesity degree (body mass index [...] Read more.

Childhood obesity can lead to adulthood obesity with adverse effects. Since body composition and physical fitness differ depending on the obesity degree, a systemic analysis could help classify that degree. We used three study designs based on the obesity degree (body mass index [BMI] as a reference) for our objectives. First, we identified the relationship between body composition and physical fitness. Second, we determined the effects of exercise on body composition and physical fitness. Third, we performed a path analysis of the impact of exercise on body composition and physical fitness, and verified those effects among the groups. In study 1, 164 10-year-old subjects were divided into four groups: 33 in the normal weight (NO), 34 in overweight (OV), 54 in obesity (OB), and 43 in the severe obesity (SOB) group. In study 2, 101 participants from study 1 who wished to participate in the exercise program were divided into four groups (same criteria). The exercise program (three times a week for 60 min, for 16 weeks) consisted of sports and reinforcement exercises of increasing intensity. Body composition was measured by body weight, percentage of body fat (%BF), muscle mass, skeletal muscle mass (SMM), and body mass index (BMI). In contrast, physical fitness was measured by muscular strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, agility, and balance. As a result, all body composition variables were higher in the SOB group than in the other groups. Physical fitness, muscular strength and balance, and agility were highest in the SOB, NO, and OV groups, respectively. Pearson’s correlation revealed that muscular strength was associated with height and body weight across all groups. Agility showed a negative correlation with %BF in the NO, OB, and SOB groups. SMM was positively correlated in the OB and SOB groups. After the exercise intervention, BMI and the %BF of the SOB group were significantly reduced (p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively), while SMM presented a significant increase (p < 0.001). Height also showed a significant increase in all groups (p < 0.001). Among physical fitness variables, muscular strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, and balance showed a significant increase in all groups, while a significant increase in power was observed in only the OB and SOB groups. As for the effects of the body composition on physical fitness after exercise intervention, the greatest impact was observed for balance, muscular strength and agility, and muscular endurance in NO, OV, and OB groups, respectively. In conclusion, the body composition, physical fitness relationship, and the effects of exercise intervention on them differed depending on the obesity degree. Furthermore, the results varied according to the obesity degree. Thus, our study highlights the importance of creating particular exercise programs for the effective prevention and treatment of childhood obesity considering the obesity degree. Full article

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2021

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2020

15 pages, 683 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Relationship between Korean Adolescent’s Sports Participation, Optimism, Pessimism, Self-Regulation, and Coronavirus-Related Stress in the Pandemic Situation

by Ho-Hyun Song and Dae-Jung Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10645; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010645 - 11 Oct 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1860

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationships between sports participation, optimism/pessimism, self-regulation, and coronavirus-related stress in Korean adolescents during the pandemic situation. Specifically, we attempted to offer valuable information that could help to alleviate coronavirus-related stress in adolescents by promoting participation in sports [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine the relationships between sports participation, optimism/pessimism, self-regulation, and coronavirus-related stress in Korean adolescents during the pandemic situation. Specifically, we attempted to offer valuable information that could help to alleviate coronavirus-related stress in adolescents by promoting participation in sports and the development of optimism and self-regulation. To achieve this aim, we conducted an online survey of 836 Korean adolescents in the pilot and main studies. Confirmatory factor, frequency, path, reliability, descriptive statistical, and multimedia analyses were performed. Our findings indicated several differences for each variable according to demographic characteristics. Sports participation exerted a positive effect on optimism (p < 0.001) and self-regulation (p < 0.01) and negative effects on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.05) and pessimism (p < 0.001). In addition, optimism exerted a positive effect on self-regulation (p < 0.001) and a negative effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.001), while pessimism exerted a negative effect on self-regulation (p < 0.01) and a positive effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.001). Further analysis indicated that self-regulation had a negative effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the need for youth educational institutions to encourage adolescents to participate in sports and for organizing bodies to suggest various policies and provide education that can assist them in properly coping with and overcoming coronavirus-related stress by strengthening their optimistic attitude and self-regulation ability. Full article

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13 pages, 1158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Efficacy of Brief School-Based Exercise Programs in Improving Pubertal Bone Mass and Physical Fitness: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Xin Tian, Jian Fu, Jiaxue Tian, Yu Yang, Wenjie Liang, Wencui Fan and Renqing Zhao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(18), 9648; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18189648 - 13 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2047

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the effects of three types of school-based exercises on bone health and physical fitness function in Chinese boys and girls. Methods: One hundred and seventy-four Chinese boys and girls were randomly assigned into four groups: (1) sham exercise (ShEx); (2) [...] Read more.

Purpose: To examine the effects of three types of school-based exercises on bone health and physical fitness function in Chinese boys and girls. Methods: One hundred and seventy-four Chinese boys and girls were randomly assigned into four groups: (1) sham exercise (ShEx); (2) high-impact exercise (HiEx); (3) high-impact exercise with various directions (HiExVi); and (4) high-intensity interval exercise (HiInEx). Speed of sound (SOS) and physical fitness parameters were determined before and after six-month intervention. Results: At the end of six-month intervention, participants in all groups show an increment of SOS compared with the baseline (p < 0.05), and the changes were higher in HiEx (mean: 38.878 m/s, 95% CI: 32.885~44.872, p = 0.001) and HiExVi groups (49.317 m/s, 42.737~55.897, p < 0.001) compared with ShEx group (20.049 m/s, 13.751~26.346). Six-month exercise training generated a reduction of percent of body fat (PBF) and waist–hip ratio (WHR) (p < 0.05). The decrease of PBF was greater in HiExVi (−1.222%, −1.820~−0.624, p = 0.012) and HiInEx groups (−1.395%, −1.809~−0.982, p = 0.003), whereas the reduction of WHR was larger in HiEx (−0.026, −0.039~−0.014, p = 0.009), HiExVi (−0.024, −0.036~−0.012, p = 0.021), and HiInEx groups (−0.035, −0.046~−0.024, p < 0.001) compared with ShEx group. Balance function (BLF), vital capacity (VC), standing long jump (SLJ), and sit up (SU) increased in all intervention groups (p < 0.05). The BLF increased in HiEx (6.332 s, 4.136~8.528, p = 0.001), HiExVi (10.489 s, 8.934~12.045, p < 0.001), and HiInEx groups (9.103 s, 7.430~10.776, p < 0.001) showed a greater change than that of ShEx group (1.727 s, 0.684~2.770). The increment of VC (273.049 mL, 199.510~346.587, p < 0.001) and SU (2.537 times/min, 0.639~4.435, p = 0.017) was higher in HiInEx group, whereas the accrual in SLJ was larger in HiExVi (7.488 cm, 4.936~10.040, p = 0.007) compared with ShEx group (58.902 mL, 7.990~109.814; −0.463 times/min, −2.003~1.077; 1.488 cm, −0.654~3.630). Conclusion: The brief school-based exercises were effective in improving schoolchildren’s health, but they showed different effects, with HiEx mostly improving bone health, HiInEx largely benefiting physical fitness function, and HiExVi enhancing both bone and physical fitness. Full article

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10 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Physical Activity and Psychological Modification-Based Intervention on Physical Fitness, Physical Activity and Its Related Psychological Variables in Female Adolescents

by YoungHo Kim and InKyoung Park

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(18), 9510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18189510 - 09 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2065

Abstract

Background: The current study investigated the effects of an intervention incorporating physical activity and psychological modification strategy on physical fitness, physical activity levels, and psychological variables related to physical activity in female adolescents. Methods: Sixty female adolescents were recruited from H Middle [...] Read more.

Background: The current study investigated the effects of an intervention incorporating physical activity and psychological modification strategy on physical fitness, physical activity levels, and psychological variables related to physical activity in female adolescents. Methods: Sixty female adolescents were recruited from H Middle School. Among them, 30 females (Mage = 14.35 years) were randomly assigned to the experimental group and the rest of 30 to the control group (Mage = 14.47 years) and voluntarily participated in the 12-week intervention. Results: The results indicated that the physical activity stage of female adolescents in the experimental group significantly increased over the 12-week intervention. The results revealed that all of psychological variables in the experimental group significantly improved over the intervention, while participants in the experimental group showed significantly higher scores on most of psychological variables, except cons, than those in the control group after the intervention. Moreover, most of physical fitness components in the experimental group significantly increased over the intervention. Conclusions: The current study confirmed that the physical activity-related psychological intervention was feasible for improving physical and psychological health among female adolescents. Full article

20 pages, 658 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunological Effects of an Add-On Physical Exercise Therapy in Depressed Adolescents and Its Interplay with Depression Severity

by Heidrun Lioba Wunram, Max Oberste, Stefanie Hamacher, Susanne Neufang, Nils Grote, Maya Kristina Krischer, Wilhelm Bloch, Eckhard Schönau, Stephan Bender and Oliver Fricke

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126527 - 17 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3018

Abstract

Background: Pro-inflammatory cytokines (PICs) have gained attention in the pathophysiology and treatment of depressive disorders. At the same time, the therapeutic effect of physical activity seems to work via immunomodulatory pathways. The interventional study “Mood Vibes” analyzed the influence of exercise on depression [...] Read more.

Background: Pro-inflammatory cytokines (PICs) have gained attention in the pathophysiology and treatment of depressive disorders. At the same time, the therapeutic effect of physical activity seems to work via immunomodulatory pathways. The interventional study “Mood Vibes” analyzed the influence of exercise on depression severity (primary endpoint) in depressive adolescents; the influence of PICs on the clinical outcome was analyzed as a secondary endpoint. Methods: Clinically diagnosed depressed adolescents (N = 64; 28.1% male; mean age = 15.9; mean BMI = 24.6) were included and participated either in Whole Body Vibration (WBV) (n = 21) or bicycle ergometer training (n = 20) in addition to treatment-as-usual (TAU). Patients in the control treatment group received TAU only (n = 23). The PICs (interleukin-6—IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α—TNF-α) were analyzed before intervention, after 6 weeks of training (t1), and 8 weeks post-intervention (t2). The effects of the treatment on depression severity were rated by self-rating “Depression Inventory for Children and Adolescents” (DIKJ). Results: Basal IL-6 decreased in all groups from t0 to t1, but it increased again in WBV and controls at t2. TNF-α diminished in ergometer and controls from baseline to t1. PIC levels showed no correlation with depression severity at baseline. The influence on DIKJ scores over time was significant for IL-6 in the WBV group (p = 0.008). Sex had an impact on TNF-α (p < 0.001), with higher concentrations in male patients. Higher body mass index was associated with higher IL-6 concentrations over all measurement points (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The positive effects of an intensive add-on exercise therapy on adolescent depression seem to be partly influenced by immunomodulation. A small sample size and non-randomized controls are limitations of this study. Full article

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13 pages, 1228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Standing Breaks in Lectures Improve University Students’ Self-Perceived Physical, Mental, and Cognitive Condition

by Maike Paulus, Jule Kunkel, Steffen C. E. Schmidt, Philip Bachert, Hagen Wäsche, Rainer Neumann and Alexander Woll

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(8), 4204; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18084204 - 15 Apr 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5720

Abstract

While adolescents and adults should limit high levels of sedentary behavior, university students spend large amounts of time on sedentary activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this prolonged sitting on students’ self-perceived physical, mental, and cognitive condition [...] Read more.

While adolescents and adults should limit high levels of sedentary behavior, university students spend large amounts of time on sedentary activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this prolonged sitting on students’ self-perceived physical, mental, and cognitive condition and to answer the question of whether simple standing breaks in lectures can help students improve these conditions and for example feel more concentrated, motivated, or less tense in class. A five-minute standing break was introduced using a designed presentation slide for one semester in five different 90-min lectures. In addition, an active break as well as an open break with no trigger were implemented in two further lectures to explicitly investigate the effects of a standing break. Before, during, and after the semester, the students were surveyed about their physical, mental, and cognitive condition (836 respondents at start, 634 during semester, and 528 at the end). To evaluate the practicality and acceptance of the standing break, lecturers were interviewed about their experience. At all survey time points, the standing break was highly accepted by the university students. About three quarters of the students felt a relaxation of the muscles in the neck and shoulder as well as in the back and the legs. More than three quarters perceived an increase in concentration, receptiveness and retentiveness, motivation, and well-being. Results of the statistical analysis indicate that a standing break as well as an active break are more effective than an open break to improve the self-perceived physical and psychological well-being of the university students. The increase in cognitive skills is reported by all groups, including the group who were offered open breaks. Hence, standing breaks in university lectures receive a high level of acceptance and practicability and have the potential to increase students’ physical, mental, and cognitive condition and contribute to students’ physical activity and health. While field research provides opportunities such as the testing of measures in the natural environment and producing real-life results relevant to the students and lecturers, it also imposes limitations as lecture settings differed, not all disturbances could be controlled, and the participation in the study might have led to social-desirability bias. For a sustainable development of a standing-friendly teaching and learning culture at universities, further interventions as well as the consideration of the topic in all processes and decisions within the universities are necessary. Since this study has taken place, student-life has changed drastically with COVID-19 measures. While this current paper is based on research conducted in 2019 and has only tested live lectures on campus, the tools tested could also be used for online lectures. Full article

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15 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Maturity and Anthropometric and Morphological Characteristics among Young Male Basketball and Soccer Players and Non-Players

by Stefania Toselli, Francesco Campa, Pasqualino Maietta Latessa, Gianpiero Greco, Alberto Loi, Alessia Grigoletto and Luciana Zaccagni

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(8), 3902; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18083902 - 08 Apr 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3456

Abstract

Background: An aspect that influences sport performance is maturation status, since, within the same chronological age group, boys who have advanced maturation outperform their late maturing peers in tests of muscular strength, power, and endurance. Therefore, the aims of the present study [...] Read more.

Background: An aspect that influences sport performance is maturation status, since, within the same chronological age group, boys who have advanced maturation outperform their late maturing peers in tests of muscular strength, power, and endurance. Therefore, the aims of the present study were: (i) to investigate the differences in biological maturation and anthropometric and morphological characteristics among three groups of Italian adolescents, two of which were sportive (practicing basketball and football) and one non-sportive, and (ii) to identify the anthropometric and morphological predictors that best discriminate these three groups. Methods: Sixty-one basketball and 62 soccer players and 68 non-sportive youths were measured (mean age = 13.0 ± 1.1 y). Anthropometric characteristics were taken and body mass index, cormic index, body composition parameters, and somatotype were derived. An estimation of maturity status was carried out considering the years from peak height velocity (PHV). Two-way 3 × 3 ANOVAs was performed on all anthropometric characteristics to test the differences within sport groups and maturity status groups. Discriminant function analysis (stepwise criteria) was then applied to anthropometric and body composition variables to classify subjects into the three different sport categories. Results: Differences in anthropometric characteristics were detected among the three groups. For somatotype, differences among all of the considered groups were higher for endomorphy (p < 0.001; effect size = 0.13). Biological maturity influences the differences in the anthropometric characteristics and body composition among subjects of the same chronological age during adolescence. The variables that best discriminated the three groups were represented by body composition parameters, body proportions, and body build. Conclusions: This study confirms that boys who practice sport present healthier body composition parameters, with lower level of fat parameters. The assessment of maturity status is a fundamental factor in explaining anthropometric and body composition differences among peers in this period. Its comprehension may assist coaches and technical staff in optimizing competitive efficiency and monitoring the success of training regimes. Full article

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9 pages, 477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association between Vigorous Physical Activity and Stress in Adolescents with Asthma

by Sunga Kong, Wi-Young So and Seyong Jang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3467; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073467 - 26 Mar 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2517

Abstract

Asthma is a very common condition that affects 5–10% of the global population, and its prevalence is increasing. Vigorous physical activity (PA) is effective in improving cardiorespiratory fitness and managing stress. This study aimed to investigate the association between vigorous PA and stress [...] Read more.

Asthma is a very common condition that affects 5–10% of the global population, and its prevalence is increasing. Vigorous physical activity (PA) is effective in improving cardiorespiratory fitness and managing stress. This study aimed to investigate the association between vigorous PA and stress among Korean adolescents with asthma using large-scale survey data. The questionnaire data of 57,303 adolescents were analyzed using raw data from the 2019 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey. We performed logistic regression analysis to calculate the stress odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for asthma and non-asthma groups using models 1 and 2. We also performed logistic regression analysis to calculate the stress OR for the asthma group with vigorous PA and non-vigorous PA using models 1, 2, and 3. Model 1 was adjusted for age, sex, obesity, smoking, and alcohol status; model 2 was further adjusted for household income, academic achievement, and comorbidities. Model 3 was further adjusted for moderate activity and resistance exercise. The OR of stress was 20% higher in the asthma group than in the non-asthma group (p < 0.05). In the fully adjusted models, the OR for the non-asthma group with vigorous PA versus non-vigorous PA was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.84–0.94). However, the OR for the asthma group with vigorous PA versus non-vigorous PA was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.57–0.86), indicating that adolescents who engage in vigorous PA had lower stress in the asthma group (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that adolescents with asthma had higher stress levels than those without asthma; however, vigorous PA was associated with lower stress. These effects were more pronounced in adolescents with asthma. Full article

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10 pages, 318 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Temporomandibular Disorder Symptoms with Physical Fitness among Finnish Conscripts

by Ossi Miettinen, Antti Kämppi, Tarja Tanner, Vuokko Anttonen, Pertti Patinen, Jari Päkkilä, Leo Tjäderhane and Kirsi Sipilä

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 3032; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18063032 - 16 Mar 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2214

Abstract

Studies on the role of physical fitness, physical activity and obesity as risk factors for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are scarce. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of TMD symptoms with physical fitness, physical activity and body mass index [...] Read more.

Studies on the role of physical fitness, physical activity and obesity as risk factors for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are scarce. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of TMD symptoms with physical fitness, physical activity and body mass index (BMI) among Finnish conscripts. The study sample consisted of 8685 Finnish conscripts. Data on self-reported TMD symptoms were used as outcome variables. Physical activity (questionnaire), physical fitness (measured with physical tests: Cooper test, push-ups, sit-ups and standing long jump) and body mass index (BMI) were used as explanatory variables. The associations between TMD symptoms and explanatory variables were evaluated using Chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of all TMD symptoms was significantly higher among those who exercised more rarely than weekly. Pain-related TMD symptoms were also significantly more frequent among those who were overweight (BMI ≥ 25). Poor push-up results and overweight (BMI ≥ 25) were significantly associated with jaw pain and TMJ pain at jaw rest. The present study showed that good physical fitness may be a protective factor against TMD pain. Dentists should also be prepared to motivate TMD patients to physical activity and regular exercise as part of the treatment. Full article

8 pages, 322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of School-Based Physical Activity Programs on Health-Related Physical Fitness of Korean Adolescents: A Preliminary Study

by Eui-Jae Lee, Wi-Young So, Hyun-Su Youn and Jooyoung Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 2976; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18062976 - 14 Mar 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3063

Abstract

As adolescents spend the majority of their time focused on exams and assignments, they do not have sufficient time to engage in physical activity; this lack of physical activity is an important public health concern. This study aimed to investigate how school-based physical [...] Read more.

As adolescents spend the majority of their time focused on exams and assignments, they do not have sufficient time to engage in physical activity; this lack of physical activity is an important public health concern. This study aimed to investigate how school-based physical activity programs affect the health-related physical fitness of adolescents in the Republic of Korea. For this study, a total of 120 high school students participated in a school-based physical activity program that included badminton and table tennis for 15 weeks each (35 min/day, three times a week), with a total of 30 weeks for one academic year. The parameters for health-related physical fitness measured muscle strength (handgrip strength), power (standing long jump), cardiorespiratory fitness (shuttle run test), flexibility (sit and reach), body mass index (BMI), and the total score. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in muscle strength (p < 0.001), power (p < 0.001), cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.001), flexibility (p = 0.005), and the overall health-related physical fitness score (p = 0.001). However, students’ BMI showed no significant difference before and after participation (p = 0.825). The results of this study indicated that school-based physical activity programs can have a positive effect on the health-related physical fitness of adolescents. Full article

13 pages, 354 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Korean Adolescents’ Sports Participation, Internal Health Locus of Control, and Wellness during COVID-19

by Dae-Jung Lee, Wi-Young So and Seung-Man Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 2950; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18062950 - 13 Mar 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3312

Abstract

This study was aimed at providing practical information to improve Korean adolescents’ wellness by empirically identifying its correlation with sports participation and having an internal health locus of control (IHLC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study comprised both a pilot test and a [...] Read more.

This study was aimed at providing practical information to improve Korean adolescents’ wellness by empirically identifying its correlation with sports participation and having an internal health locus of control (IHLC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study comprised both a pilot test and a main study. We recruited 844 Korean adolescents as subjects in January 2021 to participate in an online self-reported survey. The reliability and validity of the scales used (sports participation, IHLC, and wellness) were verified through a pilot test. In the main study, we verified the differences between all variables according to adolescents’ demographic characteristics and the structural relationship of sports participation, IHLC, and wellness. Sports participation had a positive effect on IHLC (p < 0.001) and wellness (p < 0.001). Additionally, IHLC had a positive effect on wellness (p < 0.001). In juvenile educational institutions, there is a need to develop strategies to increase wellness, sports participation, and IHLC among adolescent students, which can improve their wellness in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

11 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cardiorespiratory Fitness: Reference on the Six-Minute Walk Test and Oxygen Consumption in Adolescents from South-Central Chile

by Jaime Vásquez-Gómez, Nelson Gatica Salas, Pedro Jiménez Villarroel, Luis Rojas-Araya, Cesar Faundez-Casanova and Marcelo Castillo-Retamal

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052474 - 03 Mar 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2224

Abstract

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) provides oxygen to the exercising muscles and is related to body adiposity, with cardiometabolic variables. The aim was to develop reference values and a predictive model of CRF in Chilean adolescents. A total of 741 adolescents of both genders (15.7 [...] Read more.

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) provides oxygen to the exercising muscles and is related to body adiposity, with cardiometabolic variables. The aim was to develop reference values and a predictive model of CRF in Chilean adolescents. A total of 741 adolescents of both genders (15.7 years old) participated in a basic anthropometry, performance in the six-minute walk test (SMWT), and in Course Navette was measured. Percentiles were determined for the SMWT, for the V̇O₂max, and an equation was developed to estimate it. The validity of the equation was checked using distribution assumptions and the Bland–Altman diagram. The STATA v.14 program was used (p < 0.05). The 50th percentile values for males and females in the SMWT and in the V̇O₂max of Course Navette were, respectively, from 607 to 690 and from 630 to 641 m, and from 43.9 to 45 and from 37.5 to 31.5 mlO₂·kg·min⁻¹, for the range of 13 to 17 years. For its part, the model to predict V̇O₂max incorporated gender, heart rate, height, waist-to-height ratio (WHR), and distance in the SMWT (R² = 0.62; estimation error = 0.38 LO₂·min⁻¹; p <0.001). Reference values can guide physical fitness in Chilean adolescents, and V̇O₂max was possible to predict from morphofunctional variables. Full article

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11 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Injury and Illness in World Taekwondo Junior Athletes: An Epidemiological Study

by Hee Seong Jeong, Sunghe Ha, Dae Hyoun Jeong, David Michael O’Sullivan and Sae Yong Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042134 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3158

Abstract

Taekwondo has been reported to be one of the most injurious sports in the summer Olympics, however, there is a dearth of data about injury profiles for junior athletes. Therefore, we aimed to identify the incidence and profiles of the injuries and illnesses [...] Read more.

Taekwondo has been reported to be one of the most injurious sports in the summer Olympics, however, there is a dearth of data about injury profiles for junior athletes. Therefore, we aimed to identify the incidence and profiles of the injuries and illnesses that occurred during the 2018 World Taekwondo Junior Championships and recorded using an online system. Among the 889 athletes, 67 injuries and four illnesses were reported, corresponding to an overall clinical incidence of 7.5 injuries (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.7–9.3) and 0.5 illnesses (0.1–0.9) per 100 athletes. The most frequent injuries were lower extremity injuries (n = 33, 3.71% of all athletes), mostly in the foot/toe (n = 11, 1.2% of athletes), followed by head and trunk injuries, mostly in the face (n = 14, 1.6% of athletes), and upper extremity injuries, mostly in the fingers (n = 6, 0.7% of athlete). Contusions (n = 37, 4.2% of athlete) were the most frequent injury type, followed by ligament ruptures/sprains and laceration. The most common injury mechanism was contact during an opponent attack (n = 51, 5.7% of athlete). Three mild concussions none resulted in time loss (none required hospital transfer or had prolonged recovery). The respiratory system was the most affected by illness, with pain and fever as symptoms. Environmental factors were the most common cause of illness. This study shows that 7.5 per 100 athletes (38.5/1000 athlete-exposures and 6.9/1000 min-exposures) had new or recurrent injuries, whereas 0.5 per 100 athletes experienced illness. In conclusion, the data shows male athletes reported more injuries than females and the most common cause of injury was due to contact between athletes. Contusions, ligament rupture/sprains, laceration and fractures to the lower extremities, head, and trunk were the most common injury. Knowing these injury profiles of junior taekwondo athletes can help taekwondo stakeholders, especially medical staff to prepare accordingly to ensure the safety of the athletes. Full article

14 pages, 1181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Motor Impact of the Static Balance in the Up Plank Position on Three Different Balls in Physical Activities of Physical Education Students

by Dana Badau, Adela Badau, Gabriel Manolache, Mircea Ion Ene, Adriana Neofit, Vlad Teodor Grosu, Virgil Tudor, Radu Sasu, Raluca Moraru and Liviu Moraru

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042043 - 19 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2738

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess the capacity of stability and motor impact in the development of the balance of student athletes by reducing the support surface on the ball in the up plank position, by using three categories of balls of equal [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to assess the capacity of stability and motor impact in the development of the balance of student athletes by reducing the support surface on the ball in the up plank position, by using three categories of balls of equal size, but with different elasticity and weight. In this study, the second aim was to investigate the differences in maintaining static balance, on different balls, between those who are practicing individual sports or team sports. The total study sample include 48 students, active athletes (45.8% of individual sports and 54.2% of team sports), age X ± SD 18.74 ± 1.94 years. The research included two test sessions (initial and final) applied in two stages. The static balance tests were performed by measuring the time maintaining the up plank position with two and three points of support on the three balls, with different characteristics of elasticity and ranges of deformation: medical ball, handball ball and fitness ball. The results of the study showed that the superior initial and final results were recorded on the fitness ball, and the inferior results on the medicine ball. The upper difference was recorded at the up plank position with two support points (arms, legs) on the fitness ball, at 4980 s, and the lowest in the same test on the medical ball, at 3420 s. The largest difference was recorded at the up plank position with three support points on the handball ball, at 7.082 s, and the lowest in the same test on the medical ball, at 3.093 s. The subjects of the study perceived that the most difficult position to execute was the up plank position on the medical ball with two support points, with 43.8%, and the easiest stability was registered in the up plank position on the fitness ball with three points of support, of 37.5%. The relevance of the research results from the possibility of using different balls in conditions of positioning and body posture with a diminished support base in order to improve physical fitness. Full article

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11 pages, 1312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Non-Sport-Specific Versus Sport-Specific Training on Physical Performance and Perceptual Response in Young Football Players

by Damiano Formenti, Alessio Rossi, Tindaro Bongiovanni, Francesco Campa, Luca Cavaggioni, Giampietro Alberti, Stefano Longo and Athos Trecroci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041962 - 18 Feb 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4346

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the effects of non-sport-specific and sport-specific training methods on physical performance and perceptual response in young football players. Seventy-nine under 11 participants were selected and assigned to non-sport-specific (NSSG), sport-specific (SSG), and control (CNTG) groups. The NSSG training [...] Read more.

This study aimed to compare the effects of non-sport-specific and sport-specific training methods on physical performance and perceptual response in young football players. Seventy-nine under 11 participants were selected and assigned to non-sport-specific (NSSG), sport-specific (SSG), and control (CNTG) groups. The NSSG training protocol consisted of combined stimuli based on balance, agility, and jump rope drills. The SSG training protocol included technical exercises, defensive and offensive game-based drills, and a small-sided game. The CNTG included the participants not taking part in any sport training. All participants were tested for general motor coordination (Harre test), dynamic balance (Lower Quarter Y-balance test), and dribbling before and after 10 weeks of training (NSSG and SSG) or habitual activity (CNTG). At post-intervention, perceived enjoyment was requested by the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). A two-way repeated measure analysis of covariance was used to detect interactions and main effects of time and groups controlling for baseline values. Whereas, a one-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate PACES-related differences between groups. NSSG gained greater improvements (p < 0.05) compared with SSG in the Harre and Lower Quarter Y-balance tests, while dribbling skills improved similarly in both groups. Regarding PACES, NSSG and SSG presented a comparable perceived enjoyment. These findings suggest that a 10-week non-sport-specific training is an enjoyable practice capable to promote greater improvements in general motor coordination and dynamic balance compared with sport-specific training in youth football players. This can occur without impairment of football-specific skills. Full article

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10 pages, 566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Importance-Performance Analysis of Health Perception among Korean Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Seung-Man Lee, Wi-Young So and Hyun-Su Youn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1280; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031280 - 31 Jan 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3895

Abstract

This study assessed the health perceptions of 333 Korean adolescents during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic via an online questionnaire administered in October 2020, which queried the perceived importance and actual performance of health behaviors. The health perception scales used in the survey [...] Read more.

This study assessed the health perceptions of 333 Korean adolescents during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic via an online questionnaire administered in October 2020, which queried the perceived importance and actual performance of health behaviors. The health perception scales used in the survey consists of the six dimensions of mental health, disease, physical activity, sleep, diet, and sanitary health. The data were primarily analyzed using paired sample t-test for analysis of difference and importance-performance analysis (IPA). The IPA results were presented in four quadrants—“keep up the good work,” “concentrate here,” “low priority,” and “possible overkill.” The results indicated that first, there was a positive relationship between the importance and performance of all the subdimensions of health perception. Second, sanitary healthcare was rated as being of the greatest importance and was performed most, while physical activity management was rated least important and performed least. Third, statistically significant differences were found between importance and performance for all items of mental health, disease, physical activity, sleep, and diet dimensions, and some differences were found for items assessing the hygiene control dimension. Fourth, in the two-dimensional IPA model, “sanitary health” and “disease” are in Quadrant I (keep up the good work); “mental health,” in Quadrant II (concentrate here); and “physical activity,” “sleep,” and “diet,” in Quadrant III (low priority). No components of healthcare were in Quadrant IV (possible overkill). Based on these results, we emphasize the importance of adolescent health education and discuss solutions to enhance the performance of healthcare activities. Full article

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15 pages, 335 KiB

Open AccessArticle

U.S. Children and Youth’s Physical Activities Inside and Outside of School PE: 1985 vs. 2012

by Xiaochen Zhao, Weimo Zhu, Zezhao Chen, Sicong Ren and Xiong Qin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020398 - 06 Jan 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2700

Abstract

The purpose of this study was, by taking advantage of the rich data from two U.S. national fitness surveys, to examine the physical activity (PA) students engaged in, both inside and outside school physical education (PE), determine if there are differences by grade, [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was, by taking advantage of the rich data from two U.S. national fitness surveys, to examine the physical activity (PA) students engaged in, both inside and outside school physical education (PE), determine if there are differences by grade, sex, and weight status, and if there was a change between 1985 and 2012. The data from the 1985 National Children and Youth Fitness Study (NCYFS) and the 2012 NHANES National Youth Fitness Survey (NNYFS) were matched, merged (N = 6178, 3107 boys and 3071 girls), and analyzed. It was found that basketball remained the most popular PA inside school PE across both surveys. Swimming was the most popular PA outside of school PE in 1985, but was replaced by running in 2012. Although PA taught and promoted inside of school PE and that such PA practiced outside were moderately correlated across the surveys, some disconnections were noticed. The impact of grade, sex, and weight status on PA preference and participation was also confirmed. What is needed is to the design and integration of more lifelong and individual PAs in future school PE curricula and school and community children and youth sport and PA programs. Full article

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11 pages, 1938 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Levels of Physical Fitness and Weight Status in Children and Adolescents: A Comparison between China and Japan

by Yuqiang Li, Feng Zhang, Qi Chen, Xiaojian Yin, Cunjian Bi, Xiaofang Yang, Yi Sun, Ming Li, Ting Zhang, Yuan Liu, Tao Chen, Akira Suzuki and Satoshi Haneda

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(24), 9569; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249569 - 21 Dec 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3174

Abstract

This study compared the physical fitness level and weight status of children and adolescents in China and Japan. Children and adolescents aged 7–18 years were recruited (China: n = 5660; Japan: n = 5660). Physical fitness was assessed using seven core items—grip strength, [...] Read more.

This study compared the physical fitness level and weight status of children and adolescents in China and Japan. Children and adolescents aged 7–18 years were recruited (China: n = 5660; Japan: n = 5660). Physical fitness was assessed using seven core items—grip strength, 30-s sit-ups, standing long jump, sit-and-reach, 20-s repeated straddling, 20-m shuttle run test, and 50-m dash. A physical fitness index (PFI) was calculated by adding all items’ Z-scores. We conducted comparisons of PFI and its distribution, each physical fitness item, and weight status for individuals from China and Japan across all ages. The PFI was lower in China than in Japan for all age groups, with an especially large difference at age 18 years for boys (a difference of 9.05) and girls (a difference of 9.10) (p < 0.001). The same result was seen for the seven items. The PFI distribution for children and adolescents was more disperse among those in Japan than among those in China. Obesity prevalence was 2.84 times higher in China than in Japan. An inverted U-shaped relationship was observed between physical fitness and nutritional status. Children and adolescents showed markedly lower physical fitness and higher obesity prevalence in China than in Japan. Full article

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8 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Stress and Physical Activity in Korean Adolescents with Atopic Dermatitis Based on the 2018–2019 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey

by Sunga Kong, Jaisun Koo and Seung Kil Lim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 8175; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17218175 - 05 Nov 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2296

Abstract

This study aimed to confirm the associations between stress and physical activity (PA) in Korean adolescents with atopic dermatitis (AD) based on data from the 2018–2019 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey. The AD groups were divided into adolescents who were not diagnosed [...] Read more.

This study aimed to confirm the associations between stress and physical activity (PA) in Korean adolescents with atopic dermatitis (AD) based on data from the 2018–2019 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey. The AD groups were divided into adolescents who were not diagnosed with AD, adolescents who were diagnosed with AD more than one year ago, and adolescents who were diagnosed with AD within one year. We defined the regular PA group and the non-PA group using the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines for children and adolescents: moderate to vigorous PA ≥5 times per week, including vigorous PA ≥3 days per week and muscle strengthening exercises ≥3 times per week. We performed logistic regression analysis to calculate the stress odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) by group using model 1, adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index, and model 2, additionally adjusted for drinking, smoking, economic statuses, academic achievement, asthma, and rhinitis. In the group diagnosed with AD within one year, stress was 41% and 32% higher according to models 1 (1.41 (1.31–1.52)) and 2 (1.34 (1.20–1.50)), respectively. However, the stress OR was 30% lower in adolescents who completed regular PA than in the non-PA group (model 1: 0.71 (0.58–0.87); model 2: 0.68 (0.57–0.84)), even if diagnosed with AD within one year. In conclusion, the stress of adolescents with AD was significantly higher than that of adolescents without AD. The stress was significantly lower in the group with regular PA, and it was more robust in adolescents diagnosed with AD within one year. Full article

12 pages, 1266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Italian Physical Fitness Decline: A True Fact or a Mindset? A 10-Year Observational Perspective Study

by Nicola Lovecchio, Matteo Giuriato, Vittoria Carnevale Pellino, Francesca Valarani, Roberto Codella and Matteo Vandoni

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 8008; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17218008 - 30 Oct 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2236

Abstract

Evidence regarding a putative physical fitness decline remains less well documented for Italian children and adolescents. An update review of data collection articles was undertaken concerning motor performances (power, strength, speed-agility and indirect cardiorespiratory fitness) of children and adolescents worldwide and compared with [...] Read more.

Evidence regarding a putative physical fitness decline remains less well documented for Italian children and adolescents. An update review of data collection articles was undertaken concerning motor performances (power, strength, speed-agility and indirect cardiorespiratory fitness) of children and adolescents worldwide and compared with 2859 11–12-year-old Italian students of both sexes, throughout a ten-year observational period. Lower limb explosive strength (standing broad jump), flexibility (sit-and-reach), endurance (Cooper) and speed (SP-30) performances of sixth grade Italian students showed nearly stable trends, with no differences during the observed decade, in both sexes. This 10-year perspective study confirmed that Italian physical fitness levels flatlined rather than actually declined. According to these study data, the decline in physical fitness of the Italian youth is ostensible and needs a further in-depth analysis. Full article

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10 pages, 1469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Inflammation, Oxidative/Antioxidant Balance, and Muscle Damage after Acute Exercise in Normobaric, Normoxic and Hypobaric, Hypoxic Environments: A Pilot Study

by Jinhee Woo, Jae-Hee Min, Yul-Hyo Lee and Hee-Tae Roh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(20), 7377; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207377 - 10 Oct 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4148

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on inflammation, the oxidative/antioxidant balance, and muscle damage after acute exercise in normobaric, normoxic (NN) and hypobaric, hypoxic (HH) environments. Eighteen healthy males were selected and randomly assigned [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on inflammation, the oxidative/antioxidant balance, and muscle damage after acute exercise in normobaric, normoxic (NN) and hypobaric, hypoxic (HH) environments. Eighteen healthy males were selected and randomly assigned to three groups: exercise in NN conditions (NN group, n = 6), HBOT treatment after exercise in NN conditions (HNN group, n = 6), and HBOT treatment after exercise in HH conditions (HHH group, n = 6). All subjects performed treadmill running for 60 min at 75–80% maximum heart rate (HRmax) exercise intensity under each condition. The HBOT treatments consisted of breathing 100% oxygen at 2.5 atmosphere absolute (ATA) for 60 min. Blood samples were collected before exercise (BE), after exercise (AE), and after HBOT (AH) to examine inflammation (fibrinogen, interleukin-6 [IL-6], and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), the oxidative/antioxidant balance (derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and the biological antioxidant potential (BAP)), and muscle damage (creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)). Plasma fibrinogen, serum IL-6, CK, and LDH levels were significantly increased AE compared to BE in all groups (p < 0.05). Plasma fibrinogen levels were significantly decreased AH compared to AE in all groups (p < 0.05), and the HNN group had a significantly lower AH compared to BE (p < 0.05). Serum IL-6 levels were significantly decreased AH compared to AE in the HNN and HHH groups (p < 0.05). Serum CK levels were significantly decreased AH compared to AE in the HHH group (p < 0.05). Serum LDH levels were significantly decreased AH compared to AE in the HNN and HHH groups (p < 0.05), and the NN and HNN groups had significantly higher AH serum LDH levels compared to BE (p < 0.05). These results suggest that acute exercise in both the NN and HH environments could induce temporary inflammatory responses and muscle damage, whereas HBOT treatment may be effective in alleviating exercise-induced inflammatory responses and muscle damage. Full article

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14 pages, 3255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Augmented Hemodynamic Responses in Obese Young Men during Dynamic Exercise: Role of the Muscle Metaboreflex

by Byung-Sun Lee, Kyung-Ae Kim, Jong-Kyung Kim and Hosung Nho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 7321; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197321 - 07 Oct 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2370

Abstract

Studies found that cardiovascular responses to exercise are enhanced in individuals with obesity and are associated with a greater cardiac output (CO) response compared to normal weight controls. However, the mechanisms underlying these altered responses during dynamic exercise are not clear. We investigated [...] Read more.

Studies found that cardiovascular responses to exercise are enhanced in individuals with obesity and are associated with a greater cardiac output (CO) response compared to normal weight controls. However, the mechanisms underlying these altered responses during dynamic exercise are not clear. We investigated whether the cardiovascular responses mediated by the muscle metaboreflex (MMR) activation are augmented in obese men during both static and dynamic exercise. Twenty males (10 obese (OG) and 10 non-obese (NOG)) were studied. Changes in CO, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and total vascular conductance (TVC) were compared between the two groups during dynamic handgrip exercise (DHE), post-exercise muscular ischemia (PEMI), and dynamic exercise corresponding to 40%, 60% and 80% workloads. Subjects completed 2 min of DHE at 30% of MVC, followed by 2 min of PEMI. MAP, CO, and TVC responses to DHE and dynamic exercise were significantly higher in OG, whereas there were no differences during PEMI. Increases in CO and MAP during mild to heavy dynamic exercise were seen in both groups, but the changes in these variables were greater in the OG. There were no significant differences in TVC between the two groups. Compared to NOG, the augmented blood pressure response to DHE and dynamic exercise in OG was associated with a greater increase in CO. Thus, the augmented CO and MAP responses were not associated with the activation of the MMR. Consequently, additional factors specific to obesity, such as the mechanoreflex, may have been involved. Full article

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11 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effectiveness of Trunk Stabilization Exercise Combined with Vibration for Adolescent Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain

by Kyoung-sim Jung, Jin-hwa Jung, Tae-sung In and Hwi-young Cho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 7024; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197024 - 25 Sep 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2818

Abstract

There are many adolescent patients complaining of low back pain, but research on it is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of trunk stabilization exercise combined with vibration on the pain, proprioception, and kinematics of the lumbar spine [...] Read more.

There are many adolescent patients complaining of low back pain, but research on it is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of trunk stabilization exercise combined with vibration on the pain, proprioception, and kinematics of the lumbar spine (LS) during sit to stand (STS) in adolescent patients with nonspecific low back pain (LBP). Fifty LBP patients were recruited and were randomly divided into two groups: Vibration group (n = 25) and placebo group (n = 25). All participants underwent 36-sessions of training consisting of six exercises. The Vibration group provided vibration stimulation during exercise, but the placebo group did not. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and digital dual inclinometer were used to measure pain intensity and proprioception. The kinematics of the lumbar spine during STS were measured by motion capture system. After training, the pain and proprioception in the vibration group improved significantly greater than the placebo group (p < 0.05). The mobility of LS (maximum range of motion, angular velocity, lumbar to hip movement ratios) and lumbar-hip coordination during STS in the vibration group were significantly improved compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). Thus, trunk stabilization exercise combined with vibration may be used to improve the pain, proprioception, and kinematic of the lumbar spine during sit to stand in adolescent patients with LBP. Full article

14 pages, 2321 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Image Relates to Exercise-Induced Antinociception and Mood Changes in Young Adults: A Randomized Longitudinal Exercise Intervention

by Angelika Maurer, Sebastian Deckert, Claudia Levenig, Theresa Schörkmaier, Carolin Stangier, Ulrike Attenberger, Monika Hasenbring and Henning Boecker

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186801 - 18 Sep 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2972

Abstract

Background: An important motivation for adolescents and young adults to engage in aerobic exercise (AE) is to improve fitness, body composition and physical appearance. These parameters have an impact on bodily perception as conceptualized by the ‘body image’ (BI) construct. AE is known [...] Read more.

Background: An important motivation for adolescents and young adults to engage in aerobic exercise (AE) is to improve fitness, body composition and physical appearance. These parameters have an impact on bodily perception as conceptualized by the ‘body image’ (BI) construct. AE is known to have positive effects on pain perception, mood, and body image (BI). However, no study has hitherto investigated their interrelationship within one study. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG, n = 16, 6 months of AE) or a passive control group (CG, n = 10). Frankfurt Body-Concept Scales (FKKS), Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), State and Trait Anxiety Inventory, warmth and heat pain thresholds (WPT, HPT), pain tolerance, and graded exercise test data from baseline (T0) and the end of the intervention (T6) were analyzed using a paired t-test (p < 0.05). Results: A significant increase in the BI dimension ‘physical efficacy’ was identified from T0 to T6, which correlated positively with PANAS Positive Affect Scale and HPT. Conclusion: Data in young adults undergoing AE indicate that changes in the BI sub-category ‘physical efficacy’ are closely linked with changes in positive affect and antinociception. These novel findings suggest that BI plays a role in antinociception and positive affect. Full article

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12 pages, 1002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mediating Effect of Sports Participation on the Relationship between Health Perceptions and Health Promoting Behavior in Adolescents

by Seung-Man Lee, Hyun-Chul Jeong, Wi-Young So and Hyun-Su Youn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6744; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186744 - 16 Sep 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2691

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify the structural relationship between health perceptions, sports participation, and health promoting behavior in adolescents. A total of 507 adolescents living in Seoul, Republic of Korea, in 2020, participated in this study. This study was conducted [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to verify the structural relationship between health perceptions, sports participation, and health promoting behavior in adolescents. A total of 507 adolescents living in Seoul, Republic of Korea, in 2020, participated in this study. This study was conducted using a preliminary survey and a main survey. In the preliminary survey, the reliability and validity of the scales used in this study were analyzed, and in the main survey, the relationships between individual variables were verified. Specifically, descriptive statistical analysis, path analysis, and mediating effect analysis were conducted in the main survey. The results of the study are as follows: first, health perceptions were found to have a positive effect on sports participation (p < 0.001). Furthermore, health perceptions were found to have no direct effect on health promoting behavior (p = 0.554), while sports participation was found to have a positive effect on health promoting behavior (p < 0.001). Additionally, sports participation completely mediated the relationship between health perceptions and health promoting behavior. Based on the results of this study, suggestions are presented on how to enhance health perceptions in adolescents who are in a critical period for forming healthy life habits, and to prepare measures to encourage sports participation. Full article

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12 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Implementation of a “Music Beeps” Program to Promote Physical Fitness in Adolescents

by Hyun-Chul Jeong, Eui-Jae Lee, Hyun-Su Youn and Wi-Young So

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(17), 6148; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176148 - 24 Aug 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2811

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a physical education fitness program for adolescents to counteract the declining physical activity levels caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to investigate the program’s effect. This mixed-methods study developed and implemented a five-component “Music Beeps” (MB) [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop a physical education fitness program for adolescents to counteract the declining physical activity levels caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to investigate the program’s effect. This mixed-methods study developed and implemented a five-component “Music Beeps” (MB) program to promote adolescents’ physical fitness. A total of 240 students from two high schools in South Korea—divided into experimental and control groups—participated in 32 sessions over 16 weeks. The changes in students’ fitness were analyzed, and the educational effects were examined via inductive analysis of the observation logs and group and in-depth interviews. The results demonstrated that, whereas the comparison group demonstrated no statistically significant changes in power, muscular strength and endurance, or cardiopulmonary endurance, the experimental group showed changes in all these variables, along with changes in flexibility. Further, the MB program had significant educational effects. First, students reported that musical cues enhanced their fitness motivation and sense of responsibility. Second, record-keeping and active participation contributed to self-led fitness management. Third, activity in a small space with few pieces of equipment led to the positive perception that the program was efficient and enabled regular exercise regardless of climate conditions. Full article

19 pages, 538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Achieving the Guidelines of Four Forms of Physical Activity Associated with Less Self-Reported Health Complaints? Cross-Sectional Study of Undergraduates at the University of Turku, Finland

by Walid El Ansari and Abdul Salam

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5595; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155595 - 03 Aug 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3035

Abstract

Very little research has assessed the physical activity (PA) of university students in in Finland, and their associations with self-reported health complaints (HCs), whilst simultaneously accounting for a range of other potential confounders. Students at the University of Turku (1177) completed an online [...] Read more.

Very little research has assessed the physical activity (PA) of university students in in Finland, and their associations with self-reported health complaints (HCs), whilst simultaneously accounting for a range of other potential confounders. Students at the University of Turku (1177) completed an online health and wellbeing questionnaire that assessed 22 physical and somatic HCs, and students’ achievement of the international guidelines of four forms of PA (moderate, vigorous, moderate-to-vigorous and muscle strengthening PA; MPA, VPA, MVPA, MSPA respectively). We also explored the associations between HCs and PA, controlling for sociodemographic and health confounders (age, sex, year of study, marital status, accommodation during semesters, health awareness). Factor analysis reduced the HCs into three factors (psychological, pains/aches, circulatory/breathing). Bivariate relationships (no controlling for confounders) between these 3 factors and four forms of PA guideline achievement showed significant effects of achieving the PA guidelines against various groups of HCs, where more strenuous PA was associated with significantly less HCs in a step-ladder pattern. Multiple regression analyses (controlling for confounders) showed that achievement of PA guidelines was significantly independently associated with self-reported HCs scores in most cases. Psychological HCs were negatively associated with achieving any type of PA; pains/aches were negatively associated with achieving two types of PA or with achieving MSPA guidelines; and circulatory/breathing HCs were negatively associated with achieving the VPA guidelines only. This is the first study in Finland to examine such relationships, and highlights the critical role of PA for the health of these young adults. Programs and policies to strengthen and improve the PA of university students would be beneficial, recognizing the benefits of instilling life-long PA habits among this group of young adults. Full article

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11 pages, 1311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Big Data Analysis of Sports and Physical Activities among Korean Adolescents

by Sung-Un Park, Hyunkyun Ahn, Dong-Kyu Kim and Wi-Young So

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155577 - 02 Aug 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4195

Abstract

The Korean government (Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and Ministry of Education) has framed policies and conducted many projects to encourage adolescents to be more physically active. Despite these efforts, the participation rate of physical activity in [...] Read more.

The Korean government (Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and Ministry of Education) has framed policies and conducted many projects to encourage adolescents to be more physically active. Despite these efforts, the participation rate of physical activity in Korean adolescents keeps decreasing. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the perception of sports and physical activity in Korean adolescents through big data analysis of the last 10 years and to provide research data and statistical direction with regard to sports and physical activity participation in Korean adolescents. For data collection, data from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2019 were collected from Naver (NAVER Corp., Seongnam, Korea), Daum (Kakao Corp., Jeju, Korea), and Google (Alphabet Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA), which are the most widely used search engines in Korea, using TEXTOM 4.0 (The Imc Inc., Daegu, Korea), a big data collection and analysis solution. Keywords such as “adolescent + sports + physical activity” were used. TEXTOM 4.0 can generate various collection lists at once using keywords. Collected data were processed through text mining (frequency analysis, term frequency–inverse document frequency analysis) and social network analysis (SNA) (degree centrality, convergence of iterated correlations analysis) by using TEXTOM 4.0 and UCINET 6 social network analysis software (Analytic Technologies Corp., Lexington, KY, USA). A total of 9278 big data (10.36 MB) were analyzed. Frequency analysis of the top 50 terms through text mining showed exercise (872), mind (851), health (824), program (782), and burden (744) in a descending order. Term frequency–inverse document frequency analysis revealed exercise (2108.070), health (1961.843), program (1928.765), mind (1861.837), and burden (1722.687) in a descending order. SNA showed that the terms with the greatest degree of centrality were exercise (0.02857), program (0.02406), mind (0.02079), health (0.02062), and activity (0.01872) in a descending order. Convergence of the iterated correlations analysis indicated five clusters: exercise and health, child to adult, sociocultural development, therapy, and program. However, female gender, sports for all, stress, and wholesome did not have a high enough correlation to form one cluster. Thus, this study provides basic data and statistical direction to increase the rate of physical activity participation in Korean adolescents by drawing significant implications based on terms and clusters through bid data analysis. Full article

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10 pages, 494 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Injuries in Korean Elite Taekwondo Athletes: A Prospective Study

by Boae Son, Young Jae Cho, Hee Seong Jeong and Sae Yong Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 5143; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145143 - 16 Jul 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3544

Abstract

This prospective cohort study aimed to identify the incidence and characteristics of Taekwondo-related injuries according to age, sex, and event type (i.e., practice or competition) based on a web-based injury surveillance system (ISS) with a follow-up period of 12 months. A total of [...] Read more.

This prospective cohort study aimed to identify the incidence and characteristics of Taekwondo-related injuries according to age, sex, and event type (i.e., practice or competition) based on a web-based injury surveillance system (ISS) with a follow-up period of 12 months. A total of 285 members of the Korea Taekwondo Association who competed in the 2016 season participated. Injury incidence rates (IRs) were calculated per 1000 athlete-exposures (AEs). Injury rate ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and compared regarding age, sex, and event type. During the season, 336 injuries were reported, resulting in a rate of 6.31/1000 AEs. The most common location, type, and mechanism of injury in Taekwondo athletes were the foot/ankle, ligament sprain, and contact with another player, respectively. The overall injury IRs associated with Taekwondo practicing and competition were 4.79/1000 AEs and 24.86/1000 AEs, respectively. The overall injury RR related to both practice and competition was higher in youth athletes than in adult athletes. However, adult athletes were more likely to sustain more severe injuries. Korean elite Taekwondo athletes were commonly exposed to injury, especially youth and female athletes. Therefore, continuation of the ISS suggests the development of interventions for preventing injuries sustained by Taekwondo athletes. Full article

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10 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Injury Profiles in Korean Youth Soccer

by Inje Lee, Hee Seong Jeong and Sae Yong Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 5125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145125 - 16 Jul 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2549

Abstract

We aimed to analyze injury profiles and injury severity in Korean youth soccer players. Data on all injuries that occurred in U-15 youth soccer players during the 2019 season were collected from 681 players of 22 teams through a medical questionnaire. The questionnaire [...] Read more.

We aimed to analyze injury profiles and injury severity in Korean youth soccer players. Data on all injuries that occurred in U-15 youth soccer players during the 2019 season were collected from 681 players of 22 teams through a medical questionnaire. The questionnaire was based on injury surveillance procedures of the Federation International de Football Association Medical and Research Centre and International Olympic Committee, and it comprised questions on demographic characteristics, training conditions, and injury information. Among all players, defenders accounted for 33.0%, followed by attackers (30.7%), midfielders (26.8%), and goalkeepers (7.9%). Most players played soccer on artificial grounds (97.4%). Injuries occurred more frequently during training (56.3%) than during matches (43.7%). Recurrent injury rate was 4.4% and average days to return to full activities were 22.58. The ankle (26.6%) and knee joints (14.1%) were the most common injury locations, and ligament sprains (21.0%), contusions (15.6%), and fractures (13.9%) were the most frequent injury types. In conclusion, Korean youth soccer players have a high injury risk. Therefore, researchers and coaching staff need to consider these results as a key to prevent injuries in youth soccer players and injury prevention programs may help decrease injury rate by providing injury management. Full article

12 pages, 531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sedentariness and Physical Activity during School Recess Are Associated with VO_2Peak

by Fernando Calahorro-Cañada, Gema Torres-Luque, Iván López-Fernández and Elvis A. Carnero

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(13), 4733; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17134733 - 01 Jul 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2643

Abstract

Recess time (RT) is a main component of school-based activities, and could contribute up to 40% of the physical activity (PA) recommended in the health guidelines. The main goal was to analyze the association between accelerometer-measured PA and sedentary time during RT with [...] Read more.

Recess time (RT) is a main component of school-based activities, and could contribute up to 40% of the physical activity (PA) recommended in the health guidelines. The main goal was to analyze the association between accelerometer-measured PA and sedentary time during RT with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). A total of 146 children and adolescents, aged 8–19 years, were recruited from six schools. PA levels were measured with GT3X accelerometers over 7 days. CRF was measured using a portable breath-by-breath gas analyzer. A general linear model (GML) was conducted to analyze the association between PA intensities and CRF during RT. Additionally, a logistic binary regression was used to evaluate the risk of unhealthy CRF among different categories of PA and sedentary time. Participants classified as healthy showed higher PA levels during RT than those classed as unhealthy. GML analysis showed that sedentary time during RT was significantly associated with VO_2Peak. Finally, compared to individuals accumulate less than 15-min of ST during recess, individuals who were sedentary for more than 15 min during RT presented 43.78 times of having unhealthy CRF (95% CI 3.873–494.824). Our data suggest an association between recess sedentary time and unhealthy CRF. Thus, school-aged children and adolescents must be empowered to perform PA during RT to prevent the deleterious effects of sedentary time on CRF. Full article

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11 pages, 364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Regular Taekwondo Intervention on Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Myokines in Overweight and Obese Adolescents

by Hee-Tae Roh, Su-Youn Cho and Wi-Young So

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2505; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072505 - 06 Apr 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4431

Abstract

Purpose: Regular exercise can alleviate oxidative stress related to obesity and can induce secretion of myokines that are involved in the regulation of metabolic homeostasis. There are no studies examining changes in these variables as a result of Taekwondo training intervention. We [...] Read more.

Purpose: Regular exercise can alleviate oxidative stress related to obesity and can induce secretion of myokines that are involved in the regulation of metabolic homeostasis. There are no studies examining changes in these variables as a result of Taekwondo training intervention. We aimed to investigate the effect of Taekwondo training on oxidative stress and myokine levels in overweight and obese adolescents. Methods: We randomly assigned 20 overweight and obese adolescents to control (control group; CG, n = 10) and experimental (experimental group; EG, n = 10) groups. The EG performed Taekwondo training five times a week for 16 weeks. Physical parameters (height, weight, body mass index (BMI)), physical fitness (maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) (cardiorespiratory endurance), grip and leg strength (muscular strength), sit-and-reach (flexibility), Sargent jump (power), and stork stand test (balance)) were measured before and after intervention. We measured levels of serum oxidative stress markers (plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and myokines (serum interleukin-15 (IL-15), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), irisin, and myostatin). Results: The weight and BMI in the EG after intervention were significantly lower and leg strength (muscular strength), sit-and-reach (flexibility), and Sargent jump (power) were significantly improved compared to those of the CG (p < 0.05). There were no significant interaction effects in terms of height, VO₂ max, grip strength, or stork stand test (p > 0.05). The SOD and BDNF level after intervention were significantly higher in the EG after the intervention, whereas MDA and irisin levels were significantly lower than those of the CG (p < 0.05). There were no significant interaction effects in terms of serum IL-15 and myostatin levels (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Taekwondo training can reduce obesity and increase physical fitness with respect to muscular strength, flexibility, and power as well as alleviate oxidative stress and modulate myokine secretion in adolescents. Full article

10 pages, 1764 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal Trends in the Association between Participation in Physical Education and Physical Activity among U.S. High School Students, 2011–2017

by Seungho Ryu, Paul Loprinzi, Heontae Kim and Minsoo Kang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072357 - 31 Mar 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2752

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess trends in physical education and physical activity among U.S. high school students from 2011 to 2017, respectively, and to evaluate temporal trends in the relationship between physical education class participation and physical activity levels. Data [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to assess trends in physical education and physical activity among U.S. high school students from 2011 to 2017, respectively, and to evaluate temporal trends in the relationship between physical education class participation and physical activity levels. Data from a total of 51,616 high school students who participated in the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) from 2011 to 2017 were analyzed for this study. Physical education was measured as follows: In an average week when you are in school, on how many days do you go to physical education classes? Physical activity was measured as follows: During the past 7 days, on how many days were you physically active for a total of at least 60 min per day? Meeting physical activity guideline was defined as engaging in 7 days per week of at least 60 min per day. Across the 2011–2017 YRBSS, there were no linear (p = 0.44)/quadratic trends (p = 0.37) in physical education and linear (p = 0.27)/quadratic trends (p = 0.25) in physical activity, respectively. Regarding the trends in the association between physical education and physical activity, there were no statistically significant linear (unstandardized regression coefficient (b) = 0.013, p = 0.43) or quadratic (p = 0.75) trends; however, at the sample level, there was a slight increase in the odds ratio effect sizes from 2011 to 2017 (ES = 1.80–1.98). The pooled association between physical education participation and physical activity was statistically significant, OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.75–2.03, p < 0.001. That is, on average across the four YRBSS cycles, students who participated in physical education had 1.88 times higher odds of meeting physical activity guideline when compared to students who did not participate in physical education. The trends of physical education and physical activity did not change between 2011 and 2017. Overall, we observed a significant relationship between participation in physical education and physical activity. There was a non-significant yet stable trend of association between participation in physical education and physical activity over time. Full article

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