Editorial

1 pages, 249 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

by Pantelis T. Nikolaidis and Beat Knechtle

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8435; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148435 - 10 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1450

The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH) has increased its publications of scientific papers related to exercise; a search of Pubmed (on 22 June 2022) using IJERPH and exercise as keywords showed 1788 entries for 2021 compared to [...] Read more.

The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH) has increased its publications of scientific papers related to exercise; a search of Pubmed (on 22 June 2022) using IJERPH and exercise as keywords showed 1788 entries for 2021 compared to 80 entries in 2016 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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17 pages, 1886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personality Traits Associated with the Risk of Exercise Dependence in Ultraendurance Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Marion Remilly, Benoit Mauvieux and Joffrey Drigny

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021042 - 06 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2253

Abstract

Exercise dependence (ED) is common in endurance athletes and can lead to physical and psychological distress with various health effects. We designed a prospective cross-sectional study to investigate the personality traits associated with ED among ultraendurance athletes. A total of 507 participants (41.6 [...] Read more.

Exercise dependence (ED) is common in endurance athletes and can lead to physical and psychological distress with various health effects. We designed a prospective cross-sectional study to investigate the personality traits associated with ED among ultraendurance athletes. A total of 507 participants (41.6 (9.8) years, men: 73.7%) completed (1) a screening questionnaire about sociodemographic data, sporting habits, and healthcare data, (2) the Exercise Dependence Scale-Revised (EDS-R, 21 items scored from 1 (never) to 6 (always), 7 subscales), (3) the Big Five Inventory (BFI), and (4) 2 items of the SCOFF (Sick-Control-One Stone-Fat-Food) questionnaire regarding possible eating disorders. Based on the EDS-R scores, 37 (7.3%) participants were at risk for ED (scores ≥ 5/6 on ≥3 subscales), 366 (72.2%) were nondependent but symptomatic (scores ≥ 3/6 on ≥3 subscales), and 104 (20.5%) were asymptomatic. Participants with ED had a greater training volume and a higher prevalence of possible eating disorders. A higher level of neuroticism was associated with increased EDS-R scores (r = 0.294; p < 0.001), with significantly higher scores in the ED group (F = 14.50, p < 0.001). The association between neuroticism and ED was not moderated by the presence of eating disorders. These findings will help to screen ultraendurance athletes at risk for ED and optimize their care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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15 pages, 880 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Contributes to Athlete Performance Health? A Concept Mapping Approach

by Erin A. Smyth, Alex Donaldson, Michael K. Drew, Miranda Menaspa, Jennifer Cooke, Sara A. Guevara, Craig Purdam, Craig Appaneal, Rebecca Wiasak and Liam Toohey

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(1), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010300 - 24 Dec 2022

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Abstract

Background: In high-performance sport, athlete performance health encompasses a state of optimal physical, mental, and social wellbeing related to an athlete’s sporting success. The aim of this study was to identify the priority areas for achieving athlete performance health in Australia’s high-performance sport [...] Read more.

Background: In high-performance sport, athlete performance health encompasses a state of optimal physical, mental, and social wellbeing related to an athlete’s sporting success. The aim of this study was to identify the priority areas for achieving athlete performance health in Australia’s high-performance sport system (HPSS). Methods: Participants across five socioecological levels of Australia’s HPSS were invited to contribute to this study. Concept mapping, a mixed-methods approach incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection, was used. Participants brainstormed ideas for what athlete performance health requires, sorted the ideas into groups based on similar meaning and rated the importance, and ease of achieving each idea on a scale from 1 (not important/easiest to overcome) to 5 (extremely important/hardest to overcome). Results: Forty-nine participants generated 97 unique statements that were grouped into 12 clusters following multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The three clusters with highest mean importance rating were (mean importance rating (1–5), mean ease of overcoming (1–5)): ‘Behavioral competency’ (4.37, 2.30); ‘Collaboration and teamwork’ (4.19, 2.65); ‘Valuing athlete wellbeing’ (4.17, 2.77). The 12 clusters were grouped into five overarching domains: Domain one—Performance health culture; Domain two—Integrated strategy; Domain three—Operational effectiveness; Domain four—Skilled people; Domain five—Leadership. Conclusion: A diverse sample of key stakeholders from Australia’s HPSS identified five overarching domains that contribute to athlete performance health. The themes that need to be addressed in a strategy to achieve athlete performance health in Australia’s HPSS are ‘Leadership’, ‘Skilled people’, ‘Performance health culture’, ‘Operational effectiveness’, and ‘Integrated strategy’. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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11 pages, 2401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Effects of the Interval and Duration of Intermittent Exercise on Arterial Stiffness in Young Men

by Jianchang Ren, Haili Xiao and Ping Wang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16847; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416847 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1033

Abstract

We proved the hypothesis that intermittent exercise would have a better effect on arterial stiffness by shortening the duration of intervals and increasing the number of bouts. Twenty healthy male college students (20.4 ± 0.4 years) were randomly assigned to a quiet control [...] Read more.

We proved the hypothesis that intermittent exercise would have a better effect on arterial stiffness by shortening the duration of intervals and increasing the number of bouts. Twenty healthy male college students (20.4 ± 0.4 years) were randomly assigned to a quiet control (CON), 30 min continuous exercise (CE), long-interval intermittent exercise with long intervals (IELL), long-interval intermittent exercise with short intervals (IELS), and short-interval intermittent exercise with short intervals (IESS). The intensity was set to 45% of the heart rate reserve. The brachial-ankle pulse wave (baPWV) was measured at baseline (BL), 0 min post-exercise, 20 min post-exercise, 40 min post-exercise, and 60 min post-exercise. BaPWV changes (⊿baPWV) from the BL in the same tests were used for the analysis. ⊿baPWV did not change significantly in the CON. ⊿baPWV decreased significantly at 0, 20, and 40 min in all exercise tests. ⊿baPWV decreased significantly at 60 min in IELS and IESS. At 60 min, the ⊿baPWV of IELS and IESS was still significantly lower than that of CON and CE, and the ⊿baPWV of IESS was still significantly lower than that of IELS. Hence, shortening the intervals of intermittent exercise and increasing the number of repetitions may enhance the effect of improving arterial stiffness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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12 pages, 3030 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of 13 Weeks Long-Distance Bicycle Riding on Inflammatory Response Indicators Related to Joint Cartilage and Muscle Damage

by Hyung-Jun Kim and Hyo-Cheol Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16314; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316314 - 06 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1226

Abstract

This study was to investigate the effects of 13 weeks of long-distance cycling on biomarkers of joint cartilage, muscle damage and inflammation. All subjects in this study were seven participants of the “One Korea New-Eurasia Peace Cycle Expedition”, in which they rode cycles [...] Read more.

This study was to investigate the effects of 13 weeks of long-distance cycling on biomarkers of joint cartilage, muscle damage and inflammation. All subjects in this study were seven participants of the “One Korea New-Eurasia Peace Cycle Expedition”, in which they rode cycles from Berlin, Germany to Seoul, Korea for thirteen weeks. The total course of the expedition was divided into three sub-courses: course 1 (from Berlin to Moscow), course 2 (from Moscow to Ulaanbaatar) and course 3 (from Ulaanbaatar to Seoul). All the selected participants rode 87.4 km/day (course 1), 70.4 km/day (course 2) and 57.6 km/day (course 3) on average, respectively. We collected their blood samples before the expedition in Seoul (S1), after course 1 in Moscow (M), after course 2 in Ulaanbaatar (U) and after the expedition in Seoul (S2), to analyze biomarkers of joint cartilage damage (Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein; COMP), muscle damage (Creatine Phosphokinase; CPK, Lactate Dehydrogenase; LDH, Myoglobin), inflammation (Interleukin-6; IL-6, Interleukin-1β; IL-1β, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α; TNF-α, C-Reactive Protein; CRP) and stress hormone (Cortisol). According to this result, COMP (S1; 188.37 ± 46.68 ng/mL) showed a significant increase after the expedition course 1 (M; 246.69 ± 51.69 ng/mL, p = 0.012) and course 2 (U; 237.09 ± 62.57 ng/mL, p = 0.047), and recovered to the stable state after expedition course 3 (S2; 218.46 ± 34.78. p = 0.047). Biomarkers of muscle damage (CPK, LDH and Myoglobin) and inflammation (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and CRP) were not significantly changed in all courses, but CRP (S1; 1.07 ± 0.76 ng/mL) showed a tendency to decrease after the expedition course 1 (M; 0.3 ± 0.1 mg/mL, p = 0.044). Lastly, the Cortisol level significantly increased in all courses (per p < 0.05), but the Cortisol level after expedition course 3 (S2; 21.00 ± 3.65 mg/mL) was lower than that of after the expedition course 1 (M; 24.23 ± 2.47 mg/mL, p = 0.028). In summary, it seems that repetitive and continuous 50–90 km/day of cycling can increase joint cartilage damage risk and stress hormone temporarily. However, this result suggests that the appropriate intensity of cycling for thirteen weeks does not increase physical damage, and rather enhances the human body to adapt to exercise training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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13 pages, 363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a 12-Week Pilates Program on Functional Physical Fitness and Basal Metabolic Rate in Community-Dwelling Middle-Aged Women: A Quasi-Experimental Study

by Chien-Hsiao Su, Hsuen-Ying Peng, Cheng-Wen Tien and Wen-Ching Huang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16157; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316157 - 02 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2120

Abstract

Background: The aging society worldwide carries public and inevitable issues. Aging is accompanied by multiple diseases, and the health impacts challenge healthcare and social systems. In addition to medical treatment, exercise has been recognized as an effective strategy not only for disease prevention [...] Read more.

Background: The aging society worldwide carries public and inevitable issues. Aging is accompanied by multiple diseases, and the health impacts challenge healthcare and social systems. In addition to medical treatment, exercise has been recognized as an effective strategy not only for disease prevention and alleviation, but also for multiple health benefits on health promotion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a suitable Pilates exercise intervention program on health maintenance and benefits in community-dwelling middle-aged women with a quasi-experimental design. Methods: We recruited healthy middle-aged community-dwelling women who had not regularly exercised in the previous three months. The participants were assigned to the experimental (n = 22) and control (n = 23) groups based on a quasi-experimental design. The experimental group participated in a mat-based Pilates exercise class twice a week (1 h/session) throughout the 12-week intervention, whereas there was no intervention for the control group. Body composition, basal metabolic rate, and functional physical fitness—comprising cardiovascular capacity, flexibility, muscular strength of upper limbs, muscular strength of lower limbs, core strength, agility, static balance, and dynamic balance—were assessed as primary outcomes in both groups before and after the intervention. Results: There were no significant differences in any of the dependent variables between the two groups before the exercise intervention. After the 12-week intervention, body composition, including body mass index, body fat (−1.5 to 3%), and basal metabolic rate (+10.6%), and functional fitness, including flexibility (+3.5%), core strength (+31.5%), lower-limb strength (+13.5%), agility (+7.3%), and balance (+4.2%), improved significantly in the experimental group relative to the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the improvement in physical fitness in lower-limb strength, agility, and balance for fall prevention also demonstrated higher clinical significance than the control. Conclusions: This 12-week mat-based Pilates exercise program significantly improved body composition, basal metabolic rate, and functional physical fitness in community-dwelling middle-aged women. The beneficial effects of Pilates exercise programs may thus promote improved health in the middle-aged female population, with practical implications for communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

9 pages, 1357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Mental Fatigue on Reaction Time in Sportsmen

by Gian Mario Migliaccio, Gloria Di Filippo, Luca Russo, Tania Orgiana, Luca Paolo Ardigò, Marcela Zimmermann Casal, Leonardo Alexandre Peyré-Tartaruga and Johnny Padulo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14360; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114360 - 02 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2638

Abstract

Aim: Mental fatigue (MF) has been defined as a psychobiological state commonly caused by prolonged periods of demanding cognitive activity. However, the differences between women and men in their reaction times (RTs) to visual stimuli due to mental fatigue remain largely unknown. We [...] Read more.

Aim: Mental fatigue (MF) has been defined as a psychobiological state commonly caused by prolonged periods of demanding cognitive activity. However, the differences between women and men in their reaction times (RTs) to visual stimuli due to mental fatigue remain largely unknown. We compare the differences in RT and heart rate after an acute intervention of mental fatigue between male and female athletes. Materials and methods: For this aim, 64 participants (age 31.7 ± 6.2 y) performed a routine of 15 min of the Stroop test (PsyTool), with 600 tasks and five different colors. Their heart rate (HR) was registered before, during, and one, three, and five minutes after the Stroop test. Meanwhile, the RT was evaluated before and after the Stroop test. A general linear mixed model (GLMM) and a Bonferroni post hoc test were used to compare the HR between the conditions and an ANOVA two-way analysis was used to compare the values pre-/post-Stroop test. (α = 0.05). Results: The GLMM for HR showed an effect on the time (p < 0.001) and the time × group interaction (p = 0.004). The RT was significantly increased pre- to post-Stroop test (p < 0.05); however, there was no difference between the pre- and post-HR measurements (p = 1.000) and the measurements one (p = 0.559), three (p = 1.000) and five (p = 1.000) min after the Stroop test. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that the parasympathetic branch of the autonomous nervous system which functions as a relaxation system tends to be activated under increasing mental fatigue, with a decreased performance (RT) similarly in men and women. Therefore, athletes could use MF induced during training to improve the time delay related to motor tasks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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10 pages, 1214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variables Influencing the Pressure and Volume of the Pulmonary Circulation as Risk Factors for Developing High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

by Nina Hundt, Christian Apel, Daniela Bertsch, Carina Cerfontaine, Michael van der Giet, Simone van der Giet, Maren Graß, Miriam Haunolder, Nikole M. Heussen, Julia Jäger, Christian Kühn, Audry Morrison, Sonja Museo, Lisa Timmermann, Knut Wernitz, Ulf Gieseler and Thomas Küpper

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 13887; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113887 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1845

Abstract

Background: At altitudes above 2500 m, the risk of developing high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) grows with the increases in pulmonary arterial pressure. HAPE is characterized by severe pulmonary hypertension, though the incidence and relevance of individual risk factors are not yet predictable. [...] Read more.

Background: At altitudes above 2500 m, the risk of developing high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) grows with the increases in pulmonary arterial pressure. HAPE is characterized by severe pulmonary hypertension, though the incidence and relevance of individual risk factors are not yet predictable. However, the systolic pulmonary pressure (SPAP) and peak in tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TVR) are crucial factors when diagnosing pulmonary hypertension by echocardiography. Methods: The SPAP and TVR of 27 trekkers aged 20–65 years en route to the Solu Khumbu region of Nepal were assessed. Echocardiograph measurements were performed at Lukla (2860 m), Gorak Shep (5170 m), and the summit of Kala Patthar (5675 m). The altitude profile and the participants’ characteristics were also compiled for correlation with the measured data. Results: The results showed a highly significant increase in SPAP and TVR after ascending Kala Patthar. The study revealed a lower increase of SPAP and TVR in the group of older participants, although the respective initial measurements at Gorak Shep were significantly higher for this group. A similar finding occurred in those using Diamox^® as prophylaxis. There was an inverse relationship between TVR and SPAP, the peripheral capillary oxygen saturation, and heart rate. Conclusions: The echocardiograph results indicated that older people are an at-risk group for developing HAPE. A conservative interpretation of the basic tactical rules for altitudes should be followed for older trekkers or trekkers with known problems of altitude acclimatization (“slow acclimatizer”) as SPAP elevates with age. The prophylactic use of Acetazolamide (Diamox^®) should be avoided where not necessary for acute medical reasons. Acetazolamide leads to an increase of SPAP, and this may potentially enhance the risk of developing HAPE. Arterial oxygen saturation measurements can provide an indicator for the self-assessment for the risk of developing HAPE and a rule of thumb for the altitude profile, but does not replace a HAPE diagnosis. Backpack weight, sex, workload (actual ascent speed), and pre-existing diseases were not statistically significant factors related to SPAP and TVR (p ≤ 0.05). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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14 pages, 1085 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knee Strength Assessment and Clinical Evaluation Could Predict Return to Running after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Patellar Tendon Procedure

by Marc Dauty, Pierre Menu, Pauline Daley, Jérôme Grondin, Yonis Quinette, Vincent Crenn and Alban Fouasson-Chailloux

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13396; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013396 - 17 Oct 2022

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Abstract

Background and objectives: Muscle knee strength is a major parameter that allows return to running. Isokinetic strength parameters may predict return to running 4 months after ACLR using the bone–patellar–tendon–bone procedure. Materials and methods: The isokinetic knee strength of 216 patients (24.5 ± [...] Read more.

Background and objectives: Muscle knee strength is a major parameter that allows return to running. Isokinetic strength parameters may predict return to running 4 months after ACLR using the bone–patellar–tendon–bone procedure. Materials and methods: The isokinetic knee strength of 216 patients (24.5 ± 5 years) was measured 4 months after surgery, and progressive return to running was allowed. The effectiveness of return to running was reported at 6 months. Return to running prediction was established using multivariate logistic regression. Predictive parameters were presented with a ROC curve area to define the best cut-off, with sensibility (Se) and specificity (Sp). Results: A model was established, including the limb symmetry index (LSI), and 103 patients (47.6%) were able to run between the fourth and the sixth month after surgery. These patients presented significantly fewer knee complications, a better Lysholm score, a better Quadriceps and Hamstring LSI and better quadriceps strength reported for body weight on the operated limb. The best model was established including the Quadriceps and Hamstring LSI at 60°/s and the Lysholm score. The cut-off for Quadriceps LSI was 60% (ROC curve area: 0.847; Se: 77.5%; Sp: 77%), for Hamstring LSI 90% (ROC curve area: 0.716; Se: 65.7%; Sp: 60.2%) and for Lyshom score 97 points (ROC curve area: 0.691; Se: 65%; Sp: 66%). Conclusion: Four months after ACLR using a bone–patellar–tendon–bone procedure, the Quadriceps and Hamstring LSI associated to the Lysholm score could help make the decision to allow return to running. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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15 pages, 1906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Single Dose of Beer after Moderate Aerobic Exercise Did Not Affect the Cardiorespiratory and Autonomic Recovery in Young Men and Women: A Crossover, Randomized and Controlled Trial

by Milana R. Drumond Santana, Yasmim M. de Moares Pontes, Cicero Jonas R. Benjamim, Guilherme da Silva Rodrigues, Gabriela A. Liberalino, Luana B. Mangueira, Maria E. Feitosa, Jessica Leal, Amanda Akimoto, David M. Garner and Vitor E. Valenti

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13330; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013330 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3263

Abstract

Background: Beer is a choice beverage worldwide and is often consumed after sports for social interaction. Beer has been suggested for hydration after exercise, but the effects on cardiovascular and autonomic systems in men and women after effort are unknown. Objectives: [...] Read more.

Background: Beer is a choice beverage worldwide and is often consumed after sports for social interaction. Beer has been suggested for hydration after exercise, but the effects on cardiovascular and autonomic systems in men and women after effort are unknown. Objectives: We assessed the effect of beer absorption immediately after moderate exercise on heart rate (HR) variability (HRV) and cardiovascular recovery after effort in women and men separately. Methods: This is a crossover, randomized and controlled trial performed on 15 healthy female and 17 male adults submitted to two protocols on two randomized days: (1) Water (350 mL) and (2) Beer (350 mL). The subjects underwent 15 minutes seated at rest, followed by aerobic exercise on a treadmill (five minutes at 50–55% of maximum HR and 25 min 60–65% of maximum HR) and then remained 3 min stood on treadmill and 57 min seated for recovery from the exercise. Water or beer was consumed between four and ten minutes after exercise cessation. Blood pressure, HR and HRV were evaluated before exercise, during exercise and during recovery from exercise. Results: Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HRV and HR changes during and following recovery from exercise were similar when women consumed beer or water. HR, systolic and diastolic blood pressures also returned to baseline levels in the beer and water protocols in males. Yet, parasympathetic indices of HRV recovery from exercise were comparable between protocols in males. Conclusions: Ingestion of 300 mL of beer did not significantly affect HRV and cardiovascular parameters following effort. Our data indicate that beer was safe for this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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13 pages, 1095 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heart Rate Does Not Reflect the %VO₂_max in Recreational Runners during the Marathon

by Véronique Billat, Florent Palacin, Luc Poinsard, Johnathan Edwards and Michael Maron

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12451; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912451 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3320

Abstract

Exercise physiologists and coaches prescribe heart rate zones (between 65 and 80% of maximal heart rate, HR_max) during a marathon because it supposedly represents specific metabolic zones and the percentage of

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O_2max below the lactate threshold. The present [...] Read more.

Exercise physiologists and coaches prescribe heart rate zones (between 65 and 80% of maximal heart rate, HR_max) during a marathon because it supposedly represents specific metabolic zones and the percentage of

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O_2max below the lactate threshold. The present study tested the hypothesis that the heart rate does not reflect the oxygen uptake of recreational runners during a marathon and that this dissociation would be more pronounced in the lower performers’ group (>4 h). While wearing a portable gas exchange system, ten male endurance runners performed an incremental test on the road to determine

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O_2max, HR_max, and anaerobic threshold. Two weeks later, the same subjects ran a marathon with the same device for measuring the gas exchanges and HR continuously. The %HR_max remained stable after the 5th km (between 88% and 91%, p = 0.27), which was not significantly different from the %HR_max at the ventilatory threshold (89 ± 4% vs. 93 ± 6%, p = 0.12). However, the %

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O_2max and percentage of the speed associated with

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O_2max decreased during the marathon (81 ± 5 to 74 ± 5 %

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O_2max and 72 ± 9 to 58 ± 14 %v

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O_2max, p < 0.0001). Hence, the ratio between %HR_max and %

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O_2max increased significantly between the 5th and the 42nd km (from 1.01 to 1.19, p = < 0.001). In conclusion, pacing during a marathon according to heart rate zones is not recommended. Rather, learning about the relationship between running sensations during training and racing using RPE is optimal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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12 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Public Risk Perception in China on the Intention to Use Sports APPs during COVID-19 Pandemic

by Peng Gu, Hao Zhang, Zeheng Liang and Dazhi Zhang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11915; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911915 - 21 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1665

Abstract

At the onset of the 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, China effectively reduced the risk of a major outbreak through measures such as lockdown, quarantine and closure, which also brought the country to a standstill with normal social operations largely becoming stagnant, including suspension [...] Read more.

At the onset of the 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, China effectively reduced the risk of a major outbreak through measures such as lockdown, quarantine and closure, which also brought the country to a standstill with normal social operations largely becoming stagnant, including suspension of production, schools and business. In active response to this non-normality, the nation has resorted to various apps to promptly restore social operations, forming a new norm of ‘offline life’ as supplementary to ‘online life’. Although a variety of increasingly sophisticated APPs have gradually restored the public’s life and work, the people’s emotions and psychology are still under influence from the risk environment of COVID-19 with high mortality and infection rates. Then, given that existing APPs have been proved effective in many areas in a risky society, is the Chinese public willing to use sports APPs to exercise as an active response to the pandemic? With risk perception theories as the foundation, this study explores the impact of risk perception on the intention to use sports apps among the Chinese public, and introduces ‘self-efficacy’ and ‘social norms’ as mediating and moderating variables, respectively; the two factors, deemed closely related to app use behaviours, have been customarily considered in previous studies. This study aims to fill the research gap in terms of the influence of risk perception on public behaviour in the context of emerging life states during global public health events, and to enrich the spectrum of risk perception theories. During the study, 1366 valid questionnaires were collected and analysed using hierarchical linear regression (HLR). The results show that risk perception, self-efficacy and social norms significantly influence the intention to use sports apps, and that the stronger the perception of the risk is, the higher the usage intention. Among the three factors, social norms during COVID-19 play a moderating role in the relationship between risk perception and the intention to use such apps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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12 pages, 930 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Medical Staff Alleviates Job Burnout through Sports Involvement: The Mediating Roles of Health Anxiety and Self-Efficacy

by Xiuyu Chen, Longjun Jing, Huilin Wang and Jingyu Yang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11181; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811181 - 06 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

In the current healthcare environment, job burnout among medical staff is increasingly evident. Burnout not only affects the mental and physical health and career development of individuals but also affects the quality of care and the doctor–patient relationship. This paper investigates the influence [...] Read more.

In the current healthcare environment, job burnout among medical staff is increasingly evident. Burnout not only affects the mental and physical health and career development of individuals but also affects the quality of care and the doctor–patient relationship. This paper investigates the influence of sports involvement on burnout in medical staff based on the job demands–resources theory, focusing on the mediating role of health anxiety and self-efficacy in the relationship between sports involvement and job burnout. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data from 444 medical staff in public hospitals in Wuhan, China. Structural equation modeling (SEM) with a bootstrapping approach was conducted to test the hypothesis and mediating effects. It was found that health anxiety and self-efficacy played a significant mediating role between sports involvement and job burnout. The results indicate the important role that sports involvement plays in addressing burnout, revealing that decreasing health anxiety and increasing self-efficacy attenuated job burnout. This finding suggests that hospital administrators should not only pay attention to medical staff’s health conditions and improve their enthusiasm for work but also encourage them to become more engaged in sports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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13 pages, 1119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relevant Strength Parameters to Allow Return to Running after Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Hamstring Tendon Autograft

by Jérôme Grondin, Vincent Crenn, Marie Gernigon, Yonis Quinette, Bastien Louguet, Pierre Menu, Alban Fouasson-Chailloux and Marc Dauty

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8245; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148245 - 06 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2340

Abstract

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), a progressive process is followed from rehabilitation to the return to sport including a crucial step known as the return to running. Return to running (RTR) can be predicted by an isokinetic knee strength assessment at 4 [...] Read more.

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), a progressive process is followed from rehabilitation to the return to sport including a crucial step known as the return to running. Return to running (RTR) can be predicted by an isokinetic knee strength assessment at 4 months post-surgery. All patients who had primarily undergone ACLR with a hamstring autograft procedure between 2010 and 2020 were included in this study. Four months after surgery, patients were evaluated using an isokinetic knee strength test. Patients were monitored until the 6th month post-surgery to see if they had returned to running. Comparisons were carried out between the two groups—the RTR and the no-RTR. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to predict the RTR status from explicative parameters. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were established to identify cutoffs with their characteristics. A total of 413 patients were included and 63.2% returned to running at 4 months post-surgery. The mean Lysholm score, knee complication rate, and isokinetic parameters were statistically different between both groups. Using a multivariate logistic regression model and ROC curves, the best isokinetic parameter to assist with the decision to allow an RTR was the quadriceps limb symmetry index at 60°/s with a cutoff of 65%. The hamstring LSI at 180°/s could be added (cutoff of 80%) to slightly increase the prediction of an RTR. Quadriceps strength normalized to body weight at 60°/s is a useful parameter (cutoff: 1.60 Nm/kg) but measurements on both sides are necessary. Isokinetic parameters are objective parameters to allow a return to running at 4 months after ACLR with a hamstring procedure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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14 pages, 2188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construct Validity and Reliability of a New Basketball Multidirectional Reactive Repeated Sprint Test

by Seifeddine Brini, Daniel Boullosa, Julio Calleja-González and Anne Delextrat

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10695; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010695 - 12 Oct 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2404

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the construct validity and reliability of a new reactive multidirectional repeated sprinting test (RRSA_5COD) in basketball players. Forty male basketball players were divided into two groups: Professional (PRO; n = 20) and Semi-professional [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to investigate the construct validity and reliability of a new reactive multidirectional repeated sprinting test (RRSA_5COD) in basketball players. Forty male basketball players were divided into two groups: Professional (PRO; n = 20) and Semi-professional (SEMI; n = 20). Participants completed the yo-yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (Yo-YoIR1), the squat jump (SJ), the counter movement jump (CMJ), the single leg drop jump (DJ), the 20-m sprint test, the planed multidirectional repeated sprinting test (PRSA_5COD), and the RRSA_5COD test. Reaction time (RT) and movement time (MT), total time (TT), best time (BT), and fatigue index (FI) were assessed. Heart rate (HR) was continuously recorded, while rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and blood lactate concentration (LA) were measured post-tests. The reliability of the RRSA_5COD test was also assessed between two attempts with one week between them. The RRSA_5COD results demonstrated to be reliable with most of the variables showing ICC > 0.80. BA Bonferroni post hoc revealed a significant better TT in favor of RRSA_5COD (p < 0.001; ES = 0.15; small), and in favor of PRO (p < 0.001; ES = 0.006; small). The result showed a significant better performance in favor of PRO in all physical fitness tests. In conclusion, it was found that the RRSA_5COD discriminates between professional and semi-professional male basketball players, and the results were demonstrated to be reliable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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8 pages, 998 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Shank Circumference by Stretching after Training among Volleyball Players

by Yi-Lang Chen, Fang-Min Tsai, Wei-Chen Hsu, Chun-Ju Yang and Ting-Yo Yei

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168849 - 22 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2032

Abstract

This preliminary study examined the effects of a stretching intervention after training and its duration (15 vs. 30 min) on participants’ shank circumference (SC) reduction and subjective discomfort score. Ten male volleyball players underwent a routine 3 h training. A two-way analysis of [...] Read more.

This preliminary study examined the effects of a stretching intervention after training and its duration (15 vs. 30 min) on participants’ shank circumference (SC) reduction and subjective discomfort score. Ten male volleyball players underwent a routine 3 h training. A two-way analysis of variance revealed that the stretching intervention had significant effects on SC reduction (p < 0.01) and subjective discomfort scores (p < 0.001). Stretching after training could help eliminate shank strain, and a slighter discomfort in shanks when stretching was also seen (score, 20.1/100). An independent-samples t test revealed a significantly higher SC reduction (p < 0.01) with 30 min of stretching (5.6 mm) than with 15 min of stretching (2.7 mm); both stretching durations reduced SC significantly more than the no-stretching condition did. The findings of this study can serve as a reference for volleyball players to alleviate shank strain after daily routine training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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14 pages, 904 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

How Anthropometrics of Young and Adolescent Swimmers Influence Stroking Parameters and Performance? A Systematic Review

by Miriam Alves, Diogo D. Carvalho, Ricardo J. Fernandes and João Paulo Vilas-Boas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 2543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052543 - 22 Feb 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2775

Abstract

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the relationship between anthropometric characteristics, biomechanical variables and performance in the conventional swimming techniques in young and adolescent swimmers. A database search from 1 January 2001 to 30 June 2021 was done according to [...] Read more.

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the relationship between anthropometric characteristics, biomechanical variables and performance in the conventional swimming techniques in young and adolescent swimmers. A database search from 1 January 2001 to 30 June 2021 was done according to the PRISMA statement, with 43 studies being selected for analysis. Those manuscripts were divided in butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and front crawl techniques as main categories. The results showed the importance of the anthropometric variables for the performance of the young swimmer, although there was a lack of variables common to the studies that analysed the butterfly, backstroke and breaststroke techniques. For the front crawl technique there is a consensus among studies on the advantage of having higher height and arm span values, variables that concurrently with high body mass and lean body mass values, contribute positively to better stroke length and stoke index values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Sports and Health)

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