International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Research

11 pages, 2484 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Origin of the Fastest 5 km, 10 km and 25 km Open-Water Swimmers—An Analysis from 20 Years and 9819 Swimmers

by Aldo Seffrin, Beat Knechtle, Rodrigo Luiz Vancini, Douglas de Assis Teles Santos, Claudio Andre Barbosa de Lira, Lee Hill, Thomas Rosemann and Marilia Santos Andrade

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11369; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111369 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1362

Abstract

In elite pool swimmers competing at world class level, mainly athletes from the United States of America and Australia are dominating. Little is known, however, for the nationality of dominating swimmers in elite open-water long-distance swimming races such as the official FINA races [...] Read more.

In elite pool swimmers competing at world class level, mainly athletes from the United States of America and Australia are dominating. Little is known, however, for the nationality of dominating swimmers in elite open-water long-distance swimming races such as the official FINA races over 5 km, 10 km and 25 km—held since 2000. The aim of this study was to investigate the participation and performance trends by nationality of these elite open-water swimmers. Race results from all female and male swimmers competing in 5 km, 10 km and 25 km FINA races between 2000 and 2020 were analyzed. A total of 9819 swimmers competed between 2000 and 2020 in these races. The five countries that figure most times among the top ten in 5 km, 10 km and 25 km races over the years were Italy, Germany, Russia, Brazil and the Netherlands. In 10 km races, considering the all the athletes from each country, male athletes from Germany, Italy, and France presented faster race times than the other countries. In 10 km, female athletes presented no significant difference among the countries. In 5 and 25 km races, there were no differences between countries, for male and female athletes. Moreover, comparing only the 10 best results (top 10) from each country, there were no differences between countries in 5 km, 10 km and 25 km, for male and female athletes. Men were faster than women for all three distances. In summary, male swimmers from Europe (i.e., Germany, Italy, France) are dominating the 10 km FINA races. In the 5 km and 25 km FINA races, there is no dominating nationality, but among the top five countries in the top 10 over the years, three are European countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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12 pages, 1590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Task Constraints Influence the Gaze and Motor Behaviours of Elite-Level Gymnasts

by Joana Barreto, Filipe Casanova, César Peixoto, Bradley Fawver and Andrew Mark Williams

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 6941; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18136941 - 29 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2403

Abstract

Perception-action coupling is fundamental to effective motor behaviour in complex sports such as gymnastics. We examined the gaze and motor behaviours of 10 international level gymnasts when performing two skills on the mini-trampoline that matched the performance demands of elite competition. The presence [...] Read more.

Perception-action coupling is fundamental to effective motor behaviour in complex sports such as gymnastics. We examined the gaze and motor behaviours of 10 international level gymnasts when performing two skills on the mini-trampoline that matched the performance demands of elite competition. The presence and absence of a vaulting table in each skill served as a task-constraint factor, while we compared super-elite and elite groups. We measured visual search behaviours and kinematic variables during the approach run phase. The presence of a vaulting table influenced gaze behaviour only in the elite gymnasts, who showed significant differences in the time spent fixating on the mini-trampoline, when compared to super-elite gymnasts. Moreover, different approach run characteristics were apparent across the two different gymnastic tasks, irrespective of the level of expertise, and take-off velocity was influenced by the skill being executed across all gymnasts. Task constraints and complexity influence gaze behaviours differed across varying levels of expertise in gymnastics, even within a sample of international level athletes. It appears that the time spent fixating their gazes on the right areas of interest during the approach run is crucial to higher-level performance and therefore higher scores in competition, particularly on the mini-trampoline with vaulting table. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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9 pages, 1040 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Running around the Country: An Analysis of the Running Phenomenon among Brazilian Runners

by Mabliny Thuany, Beat Knechtle, Thomas Rosemann, Marcos B. Almeida and Thayse Natacha Gomes

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6610; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126610 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1690

Abstract

Differences in economic and social aspects between Brazilian states/regions can determine participation in running. The purpose of this study was to identify the occurrence of the OUTrun (i.e., Out Running), mapping the main routes carried out by runners, as well as the factors [...] Read more.

Differences in economic and social aspects between Brazilian states/regions can determine participation in running. The purpose of this study was to identify the occurrence of the OUTrun (i.e., Out Running), mapping the main routes carried out by runners, as well as the factors associated with this behavior between different Brazilian regions. The sample comprised 1053 runners of both sexes (women: 426; men: 627) who answered an online questionnaire, providing information related to individual, socioeconomic (SES), and training characteristics. A logistic regression analysis was computed, considering the regions. South and Southeast regions received the largest number of runners; runners from the North and Northeast regions were those who left their states the most to compete. Factors related to the OUTrun were the preferred distance, SES, and age. The results provide information to facilitate access to running events and can provide benefits related to making the practice accessible to a larger number of people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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11 pages, 1003 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Padel Competition on Brain Health-Related Myokines

by Francisco Pradas, María Pía Cádiz, María Teresa Nestares, Inmaculada C. Martínez-Díaz and Luis Carrasco

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(11), 6042; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116042 - 04 Jun 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3630

Abstract

Padel is becoming one of the most widespread racket sports that may have potential health benefits. Considering that several myokines mediate the cross-talk between skeletal muscles and the brain, exerting positive effects on brain health status, this study was designed to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Padel is becoming one of the most widespread racket sports that may have potential health benefits. Considering that several myokines mediate the cross-talk between skeletal muscles and the brain, exerting positive effects on brain health status, this study was designed to evaluate the responses of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), and irisin (IR) to padel competition in trained players and to determine whether these responses were sex-dependent. Twenty-four trained padel players (14 women and 10 men with a mean age of 27.8 ± 6.3 years) participated voluntarily in this study. Circulating levels of BDNF, LIF, and IR were assessed before and after simulated padel competition (real playing time, 27.8 ± 8.49 min; relative intensity, 75.2 ± 7.9% maximum heart rate). Except for BDNF responses observed in female players (increasing from 1531.12 ± 269.09 to 1768.56 ± 410.75 ng/mL), no significant changes in LIF and IR concentrations were reported after padel competition. In addition, no sex-related differences were found. Moreover, significant associations between IR and BDNF were established at both pre- and post-competition. Our results suggest that while competitive padel practice stimulates BDNF response in female players, padel competition failed to boost the release of LIF and IR. Future studies are needed to further explore the role of these exercise-induced myokines in the regulation of brain functions and to identify the field sports that can contribute to myokine-mediated muscle–brain crosstalk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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9 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Social Media in Sports Vision

by Henrique Nascimento, Clara Martinez-Perez, Cristina Alvarez-Peregrina and Miguel Ángel Sánchez-Tena

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5354; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105354 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3031

Abstract

Background: Sports vision is a relatively new specialty. The objective is to provide ophthalmological and optometric care services for the care of vision in the sports field. An increasing number of athletes and coaches are trying to improve visual skills and they seek [...] Read more.

Background: Sports vision is a relatively new specialty. The objective is to provide ophthalmological and optometric care services for the care of vision in the sports field. An increasing number of athletes and coaches are trying to improve visual skills and they seek information on social media. The current excess of information has made it increasingly difficult to identify high quality articles. For this reason, alternative metrics are useful tools to identify publications that draw attention to society. This research aims to study the influence of social networks on the importance of vision in sport. Methods: Altmetric Explorer was used to perform a search using “sport”, “vision” and “eye” as keywords. The 100 outcomes with the most attention were analyzed and correlated with the number of citations in the Web of Science (WoS) using the Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: The 100 best Altmetric Attention Scores (AASs) were published in 67 journals and had a mean AAS value of 30.22 ± 62.37 The results were discussed mainly on Twitter, with a mean of 113.99 ± 43.86 tweets and retweets and a mean of 75.92 ± 79.92 readers in Mendeley. There was no correlation between AAS and WoS Cites for the top 100 outcomes and the correlation was low if we considered the total research results rather than the top 100. Conclusions: The citations are not related to the impact of scientific articles on social networks. Sports vision is a specialty with a growing interest in social media. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

14 pages, 1084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ultratrail Running on Neuromuscular Function, Muscle Damage and Hydration Status. Differences According to Training Level

by Francisco Pradas, David Falcón, Carlos Peñarrubia-Lozano, Víctor Toro-Román, Luis Carrasco and Carlos Castellar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105119 - 12 May 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2859

Abstract

The status of trail running races has exponentially grown in recent years. The present study aimed to: (a) evaluate the acute response of ultratrail racing in terms of neuromuscular function, muscle damage and hydration status; (b) analyze if responses could differ according to [...] Read more.

The status of trail running races has exponentially grown in recent years. The present study aimed to: (a) evaluate the acute response of ultratrail racing in terms of neuromuscular function, muscle damage and hydration status; (b) analyze if responses could differ according to training levels. Twenty runners participated in the present study. The participants were divided into amateur training level (n = 10; 43.30 ± 4.52 years) or high level competitors (n = 10; 41.40 ± 6.18). Neuromuscular response (squat jump, countermovement jump and Abalakov jump), muscle damage (alanine aminotransferase, bilirubin, creatine kinase and leukocytes) and hydration status (sodium and creatinine) were evaluated before and after the Guara Somontano Ultratrail Race (108 km distance, with an accumulated slope of 5800 m). The height and power achieved by vertical jumps were lower after the race (p < 0.001). The post-race muscle damage and creatinine parameters increased in both groups (p < 0.001). The high-level group obtained lower percentages of change in squat jump and countermovement jump than the amateur-level group (p < 0.05). However, the increase in creatinine was greater for the high-level group (p < 0.05). Ultratrail racing reduces neuromuscular function and increases muscle damage. High-level runners showed less neuromuscular fatigue compared to amateur ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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8 pages, 329 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Game Performance Indicators during 2015–2019 World Padel Tour Seasons and Their Influence on Match Outcome

by Adrián Escudero-Tena, Bernardino Javier Sánchez-Alcaraz, Javier García-Rubio and Sergio J. Ibáñez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4904; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094904 - 04 May 2021

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 3338

Abstract

A better understanding of the demands of in-game competition demands may improve coaching strategies, training designs, and injury prevention programs. However, there is limited information regarding performance analysis in professional padel. This study aimed to analyse performance indicators and their influence on match [...] Read more.

A better understanding of the demands of in-game competition demands may improve coaching strategies, training designs, and injury prevention programs. However, there is limited information regarding performance analysis in professional padel. This study aimed to analyse performance indicators and their influence on match outcomes regarding sex, tournament round, and set number. The sample contained 1070 sets from 532 matches of the 2016 to 2019 World Padel Tour seasons. Variables including sex, round, game result, stroke effectiveness, and break points were registered through systematic observation. A non-parametric approach was applied to evaluate differences between sex, match outcome, and tournament round. The results showed significant differences between winners and losers regarding sex in break points (male d = 2.13, p = 0.00; female d = 2.22, p = 0.00), smash winners (male d = 0.85, p = 0.00; female d = 0.69, p = 0.00), groundstroke winners (male d = 1.01, p = 0.00; female d = 1.18, p = 0.00), volley winners (male d = 1.08, p = 0.00; female d = 0.91, p = 0.00), and errors (male d = 0.76, p = 0.00; female d = 0.65, p = 0.00). Furthermore, differences in shot effectiveness between winners and errors increased in the last set of the match and in the last round of the tournament (p < 0.05). Therefore, shot effectiveness seems to be a key factor in professional padel that distinguishes between winning and losing players. Such knowledge may have implications in the design of appropriate game strategies and specific training sessions to improve performance and to prevent sport injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

14 pages, 1572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Muscle Oxygen Desaturation and Re-Saturation Capacity Limits in Repeated Sprint Ability Performance in Women Soccer Players: A New Physiological Interpretation

by Aldo A. Vasquez-Bonilla, Alba Camacho-Cardeñosa, Rafael Timón, Ismael Martínez-Guardado, Marta Camacho-Cardeñosa and Guillermo Olcina

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3484; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073484 - 27 Mar 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3129

Abstract

Muscle oxygen consumption could provide information on oxidative metabolism in women soccer players. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze muscle oxygenation dynamics during repeated sprint ability (RSA): (8 sprint × 20 s recovery) by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). The sample was [...] Read more.

Muscle oxygen consumption could provide information on oxidative metabolism in women soccer players. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze muscle oxygenation dynamics during repeated sprint ability (RSA): (8 sprint × 20 s recovery) by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). The sample was made up of 38 professional women soccer players. To measure the external load, the best time, worst time, average time, individual speed, sprint decrement, and power were assessed. In connection with the internal load, the desaturation (sprint) and re-saturation (recovery) rates, as well as the oxygen extraction (∇%SmO₂) in the gastrocnemius muscle and maximum heart rate (%HRmax) were measured. A repeated measures statistic was applied based on the inter-individual response of each subject from the baseline versus the other sprints, with linear regression and nonlinear regression analyses between variables. There was an increase in the SmO₂: desaturation rate after four sprints (Δ = 32%), in the re-saturation rate after six sprints (Δ = 89%), and in ∇%SmO₂ after four sprints (Δ = 72.1%). There was a linear association between the rates of desaturation and re-saturation relationships and the worst time (r = 0.85), and a non-linear association between ∇%SmO₂ and speed (r = 0.89) and between ∇%SmO2 and the sprint decrease (r = 0.93). The progressive increase in SmO₂ during RSA is a performance limitation to maintain a high speed; it depends on the capacity of fatigue resistance. Therefore, monitoring the muscle oxygenation dynamics could be a useful tool to evaluate the performance in women soccer players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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13 pages, 826 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Inter-Limb Asymmetries in Jump and Change of Direction Speed Tests and Physical Performance in Adolescent Female Soccer Players

by Elena Pardos-Mainer, Chris Bishop, Oliver Gonzalo-Skok, Hadi Nobari, Jorge Pérez-Gómez and Demetrio Lozano

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073474 - 27 Mar 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3274

Abstract

The association between asymmetries in jump and change of direction (COD) with physical performance in several sports show inconclusive results. The purposes of this study were to: (1) measure inter-limb asymmetries in three distinct groups in adolescent female soccer players and, (2) to [...] Read more.

The association between asymmetries in jump and change of direction (COD) with physical performance in several sports show inconclusive results. The purposes of this study were to: (1) measure inter-limb asymmetries in three distinct groups in adolescent female soccer players and, (2) to determine the association between inter-limb asymmetries and physical performance in different age groups. Fifty-four players were distributed in three age groups: U-18, U-16 and U-14. All of them performed a series of jumps, sprints and change of direction speed tests. Asymmetries were assessed as the percentage difference between limbs, with the equation: 100/Max value (right and left) * in value (right and left) * −1 + 100. Mean inter-limb asymmetries were 2.91%, 4.82% and 11.6% for 180° COD, single leg hop and single leg countermovement jump tests respectively, but higher percentages of asymmetries were observed in many players individually. U-18 and U-16 showed significant differences on 180° left COD compared to U-14. Effect size (ES): 0.80 and 0.74, respectively; U-18 presented differences on single left leg hop test compared to U-14, ES: −0.72; U-16 also showed differences on 40 m speed compared to U-14, ES 0.87 (All p < 0.05). Jumping and COD physical tests show asymmetries in adolescent female soccer players, but these asymmetries do not interfere with physical performance. The largest asymmetry was observed in the single leg countermovement jump, and no asymmetries between groups were found. Due to the high variability in the direction of asymmetries, it is recommended to consider players’ individual asymmetries for designing specific training programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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10 pages, 2063 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Key Physical Factors in the Serve Velocity of Male Professional Wheelchair Tennis Players

by Alejandro Sánchez-Pay, Rafael Martínez-Gallego, Miguel Crespo and David Sanz-Rivas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1944; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041944 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3390

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the physical factors related to serve speed in male professional wheelchair tennis players (WT). Nine best nationally-ranked Spanish male wheelchair tennis players (38.35 ± 11.28 years, 63.77 ± 7.01 kg) completed a neuromuscular test battery [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to identify the physical factors related to serve speed in male professional wheelchair tennis players (WT). Nine best nationally-ranked Spanish male wheelchair tennis players (38.35 ± 11.28 years, 63.77 ± 7.01 kg) completed a neuromuscular test battery consisting of: isometric handgrip strength; serve velocity; 5, 10 and 20 m sprint (with and without racket); agility (with and without racket); medicine ball throw (serve, forehand and backhand movements); and an incremental endurance test specific to WT. Significantly higher correlations were observed in serve (r = 0.921), forehand (r = 0.810) and backhand (r = 0.791) medicine ball throws showing a positive correlation with serve velocity. A regression analysis identified a single model with the medicine ball throw serve as the main predictor of serve velocity (r² = 0.847, p < 0.001). In conclusion, it is recommended that coaches and physical trainers include medicine ball throw workouts in the training programs of WT tennis players due to the transfer benefits to the serve speed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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12 pages, 1307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development Strategy of Home-Based Exercise in China Based on the SWOT-AHP Model

by Hanming Li, Xingquan Chen and Yiwei Fang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031224 - 29 Jan 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4029

Abstract

In view of the increasing importance of sports to people and the impact of COVID-19 on people’s lives, home-based exercise has become a popular choice for people to keep fit due to its unique advantages and its popularity is expected to keep growing [...] Read more.

In view of the increasing importance of sports to people and the impact of COVID-19 on people’s lives, home-based exercise has become a popular choice for people to keep fit due to its unique advantages and its popularity is expected to keep growing in the future. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the development direction of home-based exercise and put in the corresponding efforts. However, there is currently a lack of research on all aspects of home-based exercise. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effective sustainable development strategy of home-based exercise in China through a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) and AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) hybrid model. Thirteen factors corresponding to the SWOT analysis were identified through a literature review and expert opinions. The results show that in China the advantages and potential outweigh the weaknesses and threats of home-based exercise. Home-based exercise should grasp the external development opportunities and choose the SO development strategic type that combines internal strengths and external opportunities. As the core for the development of home-based exercise, this strategy should be given priority. To sum up, home-based exercise is believed to have a bright future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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9 pages, 1448 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ball Impact Position in Recreational Male Padel Players: Implications for Training and Injury Management

by Bernardino Javier Sánchez-Alcaraz, Rafael Martínez-Gallego, Salvador Llana, Goran Vučković, Diego Muñoz, Javier Courel-Ibáñez, Alejandro Sánchez-Pay and Jesús Ramón-Llin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020435 - 07 Jan 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4419

Abstract

Racket sports such as padel are characterized by the repetition of unilateral gestures, which can lead to negative adaptations like asymmetries or overuse musculoskeletal injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in ball impact positions (i.e., forward or backward [...] Read more.

Racket sports such as padel are characterized by the repetition of unilateral gestures, which can lead to negative adaptations like asymmetries or overuse musculoskeletal injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in ball impact positions (i.e., forward or backward of the center of gravity) in nine stroke types in a sample of forty-eight recreational male padel players. The sample included 14,478 shots corresponding to 18 matches from six tournaments. Forty-eight male padel players were classified into two groups according to their level: trained (n = 24) and novice (n = 24). Type of stroke and ball impact position were registered using a computerized motion tracking video system. The ball impact position was computed from the distance (cm) between the coordinates of the ball and the player’s center of gravity. Results show that trained players hit the ball in a more backward position (from 11 to 25 cm, compared to novice) in serve and offensive strokes (volleys, trays, and smashes) but used more forward strokes (from 7 to 32 cm, compared to novice) in defensive shots (groundstrokes, wall strokes, and lobs). Because the current differential variables are trainable and demonstrated to be of relevance for performance, the findings of this study may assist padel coaches in designing proper training plans to improve effectiveness and to prevent musculoskeletal injuries regarding the type of stroke and ball impact position. Such knowledge may constitute a very important factor affecting technique, biomechanics, and injury management in padel players of different competitive levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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12 pages, 383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Correlations between Basal Trace Minerals and Hormones in Middle and Long-Distance High-Level Male Runners

by Javier Alves, Gema Barrientos, Víctor Toro, Francisco Javier Grijota, Diego Muñoz and Marcos Maynar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(24), 9473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249473 - 17 Dec 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2076

Abstract

Several essential trace minerals play an important role in the endocrine system; however, toxic trace minerals have a disruptive effect. The aim of this research was to determine basal concentrations and the possible correlations between trace minerals in plasma and several plasma hormones [...] Read more.

Several essential trace minerals play an important role in the endocrine system; however, toxic trace minerals have a disruptive effect. The aim of this research was to determine basal concentrations and the possible correlations between trace minerals in plasma and several plasma hormones in runners. Sixty high-level male endurance runners (21 ± 3 years; 1.77 ± 0.05 m; 64.97 ± 7.36 kg) participated in the present study. Plasma hormones were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and plasma trace minerals were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Correlations and simple linear regression were used to assess the association between trace minerals and hormones. Plasma testosterone concentrations were inversely correlated with manganese (r = −0.543; β = −0.410; p < 0.01), selenium (r = −0.292; β = −0.024; p < 0.05), vanadium (r = −0.406; β = −1.278; p < 0.01), arsenic (r = −0.336; β = −0.142; p < 0.05), and lead (r = −0.385; β = −0.418; p < 0.01). Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were positively correlated with arsenic (r = 0.298; β = 0.327; p < 0.05) and cesium (r = 0.305; β = 2.272; p < 0.05), and negatively correlated with vanadium (r = −0.303; β = −2.467; p < 0.05). Moreover, cortisol concentrations showed significant positive correlations with cadmium (r = 0.291; β = 209.01; p < 0.05). Finally, insulin concentrations were inversely related to vanadium (r = −0.359; β = −3.982; p < 0.05). In conclusion, endurance runners living in areas with high environmental levels of toxic minerals should check their concentrations of anabolic hormones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

9 pages, 1418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stroke Analysis in Padel According to Match Outcome and Game Side on Court

by Jesús Ramón-Llin, José Guzmán, Rafael Martínez-Gallego, Diego Muñoz, Alejandro Sánchez-Pay and Bernardino J. Sánchez-Alcaraz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 7838; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17217838 - 26 Oct 2020

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 4930

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of padel strokes, their effectiveness, direction, and court zone, comparing between the winning and losing pairs in the match and the playing side of the players. The sample included 8441 strokes corresponding to [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of padel strokes, their effectiveness, direction, and court zone, comparing between the winning and losing pairs in the match and the playing side of the players. The sample included 8441 strokes corresponding to 1055 points out of a total of nine padel matches in the First National Category. The variables analyzed were type of stroke, court area, effectiveness and directions of the strokes, match outcome, and game side. Matches were analyzed through systematic observation. The results showed that the winning pair made a significantly higher percentage of winners, and cross-court smashes and volleys from the offensive zone. In addition, players on the left side executed a higher percentage of cross-court and winning shots than the players on the right side. Such knowledge may constitute a useful guide in the design of appropriate game strategies and specific training sessions based on the shots that will help players to win the match according to the role of the player and depending on their game side. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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22 pages, 6984 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Citations Network Analysis of Vision and Sport

by Henrique Nascimento, Clara Martinez-Perez, Cristina Alvarez-Peregrina and Miguel Ángel Sánchez-Tena

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(20), 7574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207574 - 18 Oct 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3465

Abstract

Background: Sports vision is a relatively new specialty, which has attracted particular interest in recent years from trainers and athletes, who are looking at ways of improving their visual skills to attain better performance on the field of play. The objective of [...] Read more.

Background: Sports vision is a relatively new specialty, which has attracted particular interest in recent years from trainers and athletes, who are looking at ways of improving their visual skills to attain better performance on the field of play. The objective of this study was to use citation networks to analyze the relationships between the different publications and authors, as well as to identify the different areas of research and determine the most cited publication. Methods: The search for publications was carried out in the Web of Science database, using the terms “sport”, “vision”, and “eye” for the period between 1911 and August 2020. The publication analysis was performed using the Citation Network Explorer and CiteSpace software. Results: In total, 635 publications and 801 citations were found across the network, with 2019 being the year with the highest number of publications. The most cited publication was published in 2002 by Williams et al. By using the clustering functionality, four groups covering the different research areas in this field were found: ocular lesion, visual training methods and efficiency, visual fixation training, and concussions. Conclusions: The citation network offers an objective and comprehensive analysis of the main papers on sports vision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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10 pages, 1104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Performance Parameters of the Smash in Male and Female Professional Padel

by Bernardino J. Sánchez-Alcaraz, Daniel T. Perez-Puche, Francisco Pradas, Jesús Ramón-Llín, Alejandro Sánchez-Pay and Diego Muñoz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 7027; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197027 - 25 Sep 2020

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 3447

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution and effectiveness of the different types of smash in professional padel according to the area and direction of the strokes and the gender. Through systematic observation, 1.015 smashes from eight finals (four men’s [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution and effectiveness of the different types of smash in professional padel according to the area and direction of the strokes and the gender. Through systematic observation, 1.015 smashes from eight finals (four men’s and four women’s) of the professional matches were analyzed. The smashes were categorized into four types of smash: tray, flat, topspin and off the wall. The results showed both men’s and women’s that the tray is the most used smash by padel players, presenting a percentage of point continuity of almost 90%. The flat and topspin smashes are the strokes that achieve the highest percentage of winning points (near 60%), although this efficiency decreases significantly when the players move away from the net area (p < 0.05), especially in the flat smash. Men perform a higher percentage of winning smashes than women, mainly in the flat smash (p = 0.02). Furthermore, with regards to direction, flat and off the wall smashes are predominantly down the line strokes and women perform significantly more cross court topspin smashes than men (p = 0.005). The results shown could be used to design tasks and exercises by padel coaches at professional players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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12 pages, 711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Tetraselmis chuii Microalgae Supplementation on Ergospirometric, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Amateur Soccer Players

by Víctor Toro, Jesús Siquier-Coll, Ignacio Bartolomé, María C. Robles-Gil, Javier Rodrigo and Marcos Maynar-Mariño

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6885; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186885 - 21 Sep 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3230

Abstract

This study aimed to analyse the effects of Tetraselmis chuii (TC) microalgae supplementation during thirty days on ergospirometric, haematological and biochemical parameters in amateur soccer players. Thirty-two amateur soccer players divided into a control group (CG; n = 16; 22.36 ± 1.36 years; [...] Read more.

This study aimed to analyse the effects of Tetraselmis chuii (TC) microalgae supplementation during thirty days on ergospirometric, haematological and biochemical parameters in amateur soccer players. Thirty-two amateur soccer players divided into a control group (CG; n = 16; 22.36 ± 1.36 years; 68.36 ± 3.53 kg) and a supplemented group (SG; n = 16; 22.23 ± 2.19 years; 69.30 ± 5.56 kg) participated in the double-blind study. SG ingested 25 mg of the TC per day, while CG ingested 200 mg per day of lactose powder. Supplementation was carried out for thirty days. The participants performed a maximal treadmill test until exhaustion. The ergospirometric values at different ventilatory thresholds and haematological values were obtained after the test. Heart rate decreased after supplementation with TC (p < 0.05). Oxygen pulse, relative and absolute maximum oxygen consumption increased in SG (pre vs. post; 19.04 ± 2.53 vs. 22.08 ± 2.25; 53.56 ± 3.26 vs. 56.74 ± 3.43; 3.72 ± 0.35 vs. 3.99 ± 0.25; p < 0.05). Haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin increased in SG (pre vs. post; 15.12 ± 0.87 vs. 16.58 ± 0.74 p < 0.01; 28.03 ± 1.57 vs. 30.82 ± 1.21; p < 0.05). On the other hand, haematocrit and mean platelet volume decreased in SG (p < 0.05). TC supplementation elicited improvements in ergospirometric and haematological values in amateur soccer players. TC supplementation could be valuable for improving performance in amateur athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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9 pages, 914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Wearing a Customized Mouthguard on Body Alignment and Balance Performance in Professional Basketball Players

by Hae Joo Nam, Joon-Hee Lee, Dae-Seok Hong and Hyun Chul Jung

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(17), 6431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176431 - 03 Sep 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2730

Abstract

The present study examined the influence of a customized mouthguard on body alignment and balance performance in professional basketball players. Twenty-three professional male basketball players, aged 25.8 ± 8.6 years old, were voluntarily assigned to participate in three treatments, including no treatment (no [...] Read more.

The present study examined the influence of a customized mouthguard on body alignment and balance performance in professional basketball players. Twenty-three professional male basketball players, aged 25.8 ± 8.6 years old, were voluntarily assigned to participate in three treatments, including no treatment (no mouthguard), acute treatment (wearing a mouthguard), and repeated treatments (8 weeks follow-up). Body alignment status, such as spinal and pelvic posture and balance performance, were measured at each time point using a 3D Formetric III (Germany) and a postural control device (Posturomed 202, Germany), respectively. A repeated MANOVA analysis with a Bonferroni post hoc test was applied, and the adjusted p-value was set at 0.02. No significant treatment effect was observed in body alignment (p = 0.302). However, univariate analysis showed a significant difference in pelvic torsion, where it was decreased after acute and repeated mouthguard treatments compared to no treatment (p < 0.001). Kyphotic angle also increased significantly following 8 weeks of treatment compared to no treatment (p < 0.001) and acute treatment (p < 0.002). There was a significant treatment effect on balance performance (p < 0.001). Both static and dynamic balance performance improved following 8 weeks of treatment (p < 0.001). Our study revealed that a customized mouthguard provides a benefit to balance performance. Notably, repeated treatment impacts on balance performance more than acute treatment. Although our findings did not show a significant effect on body alignment, some positive results, such as pelvic torsion and kyphotic angle, may provide substantial information for developing future longitudinal studies with large sample sizes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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12 pages, 740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hormonal Changes in High-Level Aerobic Male Athletes during a Sports Season

by Javier Alves, Víctor Toro, Gema Barrientos, Ignacio Bartolomé, Diego Muñoz and Marcos Maynar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5833; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165833 - 12 Aug 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3285

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the possible changes in plasma of several hormones such as Luteinizing Hormone, Testosterone, Cortisol and Insulin in endurance runners during the sports season. Twenty-one high-level male endurance runners (22 ± 3.2 years, 1.77 ± 0.05 [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the possible changes in plasma of several hormones such as Luteinizing Hormone, Testosterone, Cortisol and Insulin in endurance runners during the sports season. Twenty-one high-level male endurance runners (22 ± 3.2 years, 1.77 ± 0.05 m) participated in the study. Basal plasma hormones were measured at four moments during the season (initial, 3, 6 and 9 months), and were analyzed using ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Testosterone and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) suffered very significant decreases (p < 0.01) at 3 months compared with the beginning and an increase (p < 0.05) at 6 and 9 months compared with 3 months. Insulin level was significantly lower (p < 0.05) at 3, 6 and 9 months compared with the initial test. Insulin and cortisol were associated inversely (r = 0.363; β = −0.577; p = 0.017) and positively (r = 0.202; β = 0.310; p = 0.043), respectively, with the amount of km per week performed by the runners. There was a significant association between km covered at a higher intensity than the anaerobic threshold and I (r = 0.580; β = −0.442; p = 0.000). Our findings indicate that testosterone, LH and insulin were more sensitive to changes in training volume and intensity than cortisol in high-level endurance runners. Basal testosterone and LH concentrations decrease in athletes who perform a high volume of aerobic km in situations of low energy availability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

13 pages, 1467 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of Cycling Cadence on Neuromuscular Function: A Systematic Review of Acute and Chronic Alterations

by Adrien Mater, Pierre Clos and Romuald Lepers

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 7912; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157912 - 26 Jul 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2784

Abstract

There is a wide range of cadence available to cyclists to produce power, yet they choose to pedal across a narrow one. While neuromuscular alterations during a pedaling bout at non-preferred cadences were previously reviewed, modifications subsequent to one fatiguing session or training [...] Read more.

There is a wide range of cadence available to cyclists to produce power, yet they choose to pedal across a narrow one. While neuromuscular alterations during a pedaling bout at non-preferred cadences were previously reviewed, modifications subsequent to one fatiguing session or training intervention have not been focused on. We performed a systematic literature search of PubMed and Web of Science up to the end of 2020. Thirteen relevant articles were identified, among which eleven focused on fatigability and two on training intervention. Cadences were mainly defined as “low” and “high” compared with a range of freely chosen cadences for given power output. However, the heterogeneity of selected cadences, neuromuscular assessment methodology, and selected population makes the comparison between the studies complicated. Even though cycling at a high cadence and high intensity impaired more neuromuscular function and performance than low-cadence cycling, it remains unclear if cycling cadence plays a role in the onset of fatigue. Research concerning the effect of training at non-preferred cadences on neuromuscular adaptation allows us to encourage the use of various training stimuli but not to say whether a range of cadences favors subsequent neuromuscular performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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20 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Influence of Stretching the Hip Flexor Muscles on Performance Parameters. A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

by Andreas Konrad, Richard Močnik, Sylvia Titze, Masatoshi Nakamura and Markus Tilp

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1936; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041936 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 10230

Abstract

The hip flexor muscles are major contributors to lumbar spine stability. Tight hip flexors can lead to pain in the lumbar spine, and hence to an impairment in performance. Moreover, sedentary behavior is a common problem and a major contributor to restricted hip [...] Read more.

The hip flexor muscles are major contributors to lumbar spine stability. Tight hip flexors can lead to pain in the lumbar spine, and hence to an impairment in performance. Moreover, sedentary behavior is a common problem and a major contributor to restricted hip extension flexibility. Stretching can be a tool to reduce muscle tightness and to overcome the aforementioned problems. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to determine the effects of a single hip flexor stretching exercise on performance parameters. The online search was performed in the following three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eight studies were included in this review with a total of 165 subjects (male: 111; female 54). In contrast to other muscle groups (e.g., plantar flexors), where 120 s of stretching likely decreases force production, it seems that isolated hip flexor stretching of up to 120 s has no effect or even a positive impact on performance-related parameters. A comparison of the effects on performance between the three defined stretch durations (30–90 s; 120 s; 270–480 s) revealed a significantly different change in performance (p = 0.02) between the studies with the lowest hip flexor stretch duration (30–90 s; weighted mean performance change: −0.12%; CI (95%): −0.49 to 0.41) and the studies with the highest hip flexor stretch duration (270–480 s; performance change: −3.59%; CI (95%): −5.92 to −2.04). Meta-analysis revealed a significant (but trivial) impairment in the highest hip flexor stretch duration of 270–480 s (SMD effect size = −0.19; CI (95%) −0.379 to 0.000; Z = −1.959; p = 0.05; I² = 0.62%), but not in the lowest stretch duration (30–90 s). This indicates a dose-response relationship in the hip flexor muscles. Although the evidence is based on a small number of studies, this information will be of great importance for both athletes and coaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Modalities, Performance and Health)

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