Background: Understanding body composition variations among soccer players is crucial for optimizing performance and developing position-specific training programs, as different field positions require distinct physical demands and physiological adaptations that may vary across age groups. This study examined and compared body composition variables in soccer players based on their field positions and age groups. Methods: A total of 71 soccer players from a Turkish first league team, with an average age of 18.72.9 years, were categorized based on their field positions: goalkeepers (n=10), defenders (n=26), midfielders (n=26), and attackers (n=9), as well as their age groups: first team (n=25), U21 squad (n=22), and U19 squad (n=24). Whole-body and regional body composition assessments were conducted using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The following parameters were assessed: body mass, height, BMI, lean mass, fat mass, body fat, arm fat, arm lean mass, leg fat, leg lean mass, trunk fat, trunk lean mass. Results: The findings revealed statistical differences in anthropometric and body composition variables among different field positions (p<0.05). Additionally, the results demonstrated significant differences in anthropometric and body composition variables among the different age groups (p<0.05).Conclusion: This study indicates significant differences in specific anthropometric indicators and body composition parameters among soccer players based on their field positions and age groups. It is recommended for coaches and sports scientists to design training programs taking into account the variations among different field positions and age groups.
Background: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of proprioceptive training on functional movement screening(FMS), range of motion (ROM), ankle proprioception, and speed in recreational futsal players.Methods: The research sample group consisted of 24 male recreational futsal players who volunteered for the study. Twelveindividuals were randomly assigned to the experimental group (n = 12) or the control group (n = 12). The experimental participantsunderwent a 5-week proprioceptive training program with three sessions per week prior to futsal training sessions.Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in FMS (p = 0.016; d = 1.07), 5m sprint (p =0.005; d = -1.28), 10m sprint (p = 0.030; d = -0.94), 20m sprint (p = 0.020; d = -1.02), ankle proprioception left (p = 0.020;d = 1.02), hip flexion right (p = 0.025; d = 0.98), hip flexion left (p 0.001; d = 1.81), hip internal rotation right (p = 0.002; d= 1.47), hip internal rotation left (p = 0.007; d = 1.21) and hip external rotation right (p 0.001; d = 1.79) hip external rotationleft (p 0.001; d = 1.54). Ankle proprioception right was not significant (p 0.05).Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, proprioceptive training improved FMS, hip flexion (right-left), hip internal rotation(right-left), hip external rotation (right-left) ROM, ankle proprioception left, and speed parameters. These results suggest thatincorporating proprioceptive training in the program positively impacts FMS, ROM, ankle proprioception, and speed in recreationalfutsal players.
BackgroundIn the water rescue and academic community, more and more attention is being paid to optimizing rescue procedures. Research to date suggests that the lifeguard’s clothing can significantly affect the level of fatigue and the duration of the rescue operation. In water rescue operations, especially those performed by uniformed services, lifeguards are often required to act in their standard uniforms, which can exert a substantial influence on their ability to effectively carry out the evacuation and subsequent resuscitation. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of different types of lifeguard clothing on the level of fatigue as measured by heart rate (HR) and on the duration of direct water rescue operations.MethodsThe study involved 40 participants (14 women and 26 men), representing lifeguards and students of the University of Physical Education who had passed practical tests in water rescue. Each participant performed 3 rescue attempts over a distance of 30 m, including a rescue jump, front crawl swimming to a manikin, and towing the manikin back to the starting point. The trials differed in the clothing worn: swimsuit (SWIM), T-shirt and shorts (T-S), summer military uniform (UNI). The performance time of the entire trial and the maximum HR were measured. The study was performed on an open body of water. The statistical analysis involved Student’s t-test, ANOVA (both parametric and non-parametric), and post-hoc tests (Tukey’s or Dunn-Bonferroni); the significance level of p < 0.05 was assumed.ResultsStatistically significant differences were observed in the trial duration and the recorded HR depending on the type of clothing worn by the lifeguard. In both women and men, the trials carried out while wearing UNI were characterized by a significantly longer victim evacuation time and higher HR as compared with the trials performed while wearing SWIM or T-S. The comparison between SWIM and T-S did not reveal any significant differences in the operation time. Large effects (eta squared) were reported for both the time and HR variables.ConclusionsThe obtained results yield the following suggestions: (1) The choice of lifeguards’ clothing is of considerable importance for the effectiveness of rescue operations. (2) Clothing other than SWIM, especially a standard summer UNI, significantly increases the time of victim evacuation from the water and the rescuer’s fatigue (higher HR). (3) When making decisions about lifeguard’s clothing in rescue operations, one should consider both the specificity of the incident and the potential physiological strain, so as not to impair the effectiveness of further actions, such as continuing the rescue operation or performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
BACKGROUND: The level of explosive strength in the lower limbs is recognized as an effective diagnostic tool for assessing athletes' preparedness. Investigating the level of explosive strength thus provides a valuable contribution to the advancement of knowledge necessary for the effective development of training and educational programs. PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to expand knowledge regarding the level of lower limb explosive strength in primary school children. MATERIALS and METHODS: The research sample consisted of 96 participants with a mean age of 10.4 0.6 years, including 44 regularly physically active individuals and 52 non-active individuals. Lower limb explosive strength was assessed using the Chronojump diagnostic system. Specifically, the following vertical jump tests were analyzed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were identified between the regularly physically active and inactive groups of children in any of the analyzed performance parameters (CMJ: t = 1.297; p = 0.198; CMJ FA: t = 1.900; p = 0.061; SJ: t = 0.529; p = 0.407; standing long jump: t = 1.182; p = 0.240). The analysis of differences between active and non-active individuals of the same sex did not show statistically significant differences in any of the conducted tests. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend systematic support for regular physical activity already in the prepubescent age, with specific emphasis on applying appropriate training methods to enhance the development of lower limbs explosive strength.
Background: University ice hockey players in North America have five years of eligibility, during which they must show continuous physical and technical advancement. This setup requires deliberate, evidence-based development programs to maximize each athlete’s potential across their tenure. With annual roster turnover, coaches are expected to raise the team’s baseline performance each season, demanding systematic, longitudinal strategies that align individual growth with program-wide gains. This study aimed to examine within-season and between-season changes in body composition and athletic performance in Canadian university female ice hockey players over three consecutive seasons. Methods: A total of 45 athletes volunteered to participate across a three-year period. Body composition was examined during the pre-, mid-, and post-season periods of each year. Musculoskeletal function and anaerobic performa nce were measured in a laboratory setting during the pre- and post-season period of each year. Results: Body composition showed no significant within- or between-season changes, while musculoskeletal performance declined significantly in the post-season of 2023/24. Anaerobic performance (Wingate test) was significantly reduced post-season in 2023/24, whereas 2024/25 exhibited significant post-season alterations (both improvements and declines) and a significant difference in Wingate results between 2023/24 and 2024/25. Within- and between-season differences in 2024/25 may reflect a reduced sample size due to graduating players. Conclusion: Within-season declines in performance suggest cumulative fatigue and insufficient recovery, implying that current training and recovery protocols fail to maintain or restore physiological function over a season.
Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is increasingly used in sports science as a non-invasive marker of autonomic nervous system function and training adaptation. In soccer, where players engage in mixed high-intensity efforts, HRV may provide insight into both aerobic and anaerobic capacities. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between resting HRV and key physiological performance parameters in professional soccer players. Methods: Seventeen professional male soccer players (age: 24.554.71 years) from the Turkish second league participated. HRV data were collected using the Omegawave system alongside measures of aerobic and anaerobic power, sprinting, jumping, reaction time, lactate levels, and GPS-based match performance. Assessments were conducted over four visits, and standard time- and frequency-domain HRV indices were analyzed. Results: Velocity at anaerobic threshold was positively correlated with several time-domain and frequency-domain HRV parameters, and negatively with LF:HF and LFnu ratios. VO2max was positively associated with HFnu and negatively with LF-related parameters. GPS-derived performance metrics and lactate tolerance were also linked to HRV indicators, suggesting vagal activity reflects multiple aspects of performance. Conclusions: Resting HRV parameters, particularly those reflecting parasympathetic activity, are associated with both aerobic and anaerobic performance indicators in professional soccer players. Suggesting that HRV monitoring can serve as a practical, non-invasive tool for tracking aerobic power and for planning and adjusting daily training loads.
Background: Myofascial pain is a common component of musculoskeletal disorders and frequently radiates from the lumbar region to the lower limbs, leading to symptoms such as tingling and numbness. This study evaluates the effectiveness of selfadministered myofascial rolling in reducing lumbar pain and lower limb numbness and its potential to improve joint mobility and complement conventional rehabilitation. Materials and Methods: The study included fifty individuals with lumbar and hip pain accompanied by numbness in the lower limbs. Participants completed a 4-week intervention consisting of 12 sessions (three sessions per week) using a 90 cm smooth foam roller, alongside education on fascia, ergonomics, and proper rolling techniques. Assessments conducted before and after therapy included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Lasegue’s test, straight leg raise test, and a custom questionnaire. Results: Following the intervention, lumbar pain decreased (VAS score decreased from 6.02 to 4.86), as did hip and thigh pain (from 4.51 to 2.35). Eighty-three percent of participants reported reduced pain while sitting, and 89% noted a reduction in morning muscle stiffness. Limb numbness symptoms decreased in 56% of participants. In some cases, pain resolved completely, though improvement was minimal in certain movements (e.g., bending). Lasegue’s and straight leg raise tests indicated increased range of motion and pain-free leg lifting in 60%, contributing to better lower limb stability. Conclusions: Myofascial rolling effectively reduces lumbar pain, improves mobility, and can complement standard therapy.
Background: Plyometric training programs have been shown to be effective in improving lower and upper body strength in both male and female handball players. However, studies emphasize the need for more carefully controlled plyometric interventions for female athletes. This study aimed to examine the effects of a 6-week lower-body plyometric training program on explosive power and agility in early adolescent female handball players. Methods: Thirty-seven participants were randomly assigned to a plyometric training group (PG; n = 19, age = 12.1 0.36) and a handball training group (HG; n = 18, age = 12.8 0.44). The intervention lasted 6-week period, with two sessions per week. A 2 × 2 mixed-design ANOVA was conducted with group (PG vs. HG) as the between-subjects factor and time (pre vs. post) as the within-subject factor. Outcome measures included vertical jump, standing long jump (SLJ), triple jump (right and left), and T-Half agility. Results: Significant time × group interaction effects were observed for agility (T-Half) and the right-leg triple jump (p < 0.05), indicating greater improvements in the PG. A significant main effect of time was found for SLJ (p < 0.05), reflecting overall improvements in both groups. No significant main or interaction effects were detected for vertical jump. For left-leg triple jump, a significant main effect of group was observed without a significant interaction. Conclusion: These findings suggest that incorporating plyometric exercises into regular training may effectively improve sport-specific performance in this population.
Background: Doping in sport should be understood not only as a breach of fair play or a disciplinary offence, but also as an important problem of sports medicine. The use of prohibited substances and methods may interfere with physiological processes, affect treatment and recovery, increase health risks and create diagnostic, pharmacological and legal challenges for athletes and medical personnel. The aim of this narrative review was to present doping as a complex medical and regulatory phenomenon, with particular emphasis on its significance for sports medicine. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using selected scientific publications, legal acts, regulatory documents and official decisions concerning contemporary anti-doping cases. The analysis included the World Anti-Doping Code, WADA International Standards, the Prohibited List, the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport, Olympic anti-doping regulations and official documents concerning selected recent cases in professional sport. Results: Contemporary doping extends beyond the intentional use of prohibited substances. It also includes prohibited methods, masking practices, manipulation of biological samples, contamination of medicines or supplements, abnormalities in the Athlete Biological Passportand the conduct of athlete support personnel. The cases of Simona Halep, Iga Świątek and Jannik Sinner illustrate that anti-doping responsibility may arise even when the athlete does not intentionally seek to gain an unfair advantage. These examples demonstrate the importance of strict liability, biological monitoring, careful pharmacological decision-making, documentation of treatment and control over the actions of support personnel. Conclusions: Doping should be treated as a multidimensional problem situated at the intersection of sports medicine, law and ethics. Medical decisions concerning athletes should take into account not only clinical indications, but also current anti-doping regulations, the possibility of therapeutic use exemption and the risk of unintentional anti-doping rule violations. Effective prevention requires cooperation between athletes, physicians, physiotherapists, coaches and anti-doping organisations.
Background: Sedentary behavior among office workers is a major risk factor for cardiometabolic disorders, yet comparativeevidence on the most effective training modality for this specific population remains insufficient. This study investigated the comparativeeffects of 8-week aerobic training (AG) versus anaerobic training (NG) on physiological capacity, morphological variables,hematological profiles, and biochemical markers in sedentary adult office workers.Methods: Using a randomized two-group pre-post design, 42 sedentary office workers (ages 20–39) were randomly assignedto either the aerobic group (AG; n = 21) or the anaerobic group (NG; n = 21). The AG protocol consisted of continuousexercise at 60–75% of maximal heart rate (HRmax), while the NG protocol involved high-intensity intervals at 80–90% HRmax,both performed three days per week for eight weeks. Primary and secondary outcomes, including VO₂max, blood pressure (SBP/DBP), body fat percentage (%BF), lipid profiles, and hematological markers, were assessed at baseline and post-intervention.Independent sample t-tests (p < 0.05) were used to compare mean change scores (Δ) between groups.Results: Both interventions resulted in numerical improvements from baseline across most variables. However, betweengroupanalysis revealed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the magnitude of change between the AG and NGfor physiological (VO₂max, $p=0.481; SBP, p=0.949), morphological (BMI, p=0.579; %BF, p=0.763), or biochemical (LDL,p=0.693; BG, p=0.616) markers. Notably, a large effect size was observed for the change in hemoglobin (HGB) ηp = 0.116) infavor of the AG, though this did not reach statistical significance (p=0.057). Small to medium effect sizes were found for all otherhematological and metabolic parameters, suggesting comparable adaptations between modalities.Conclusion: For sedentary populations, the implementation of any structured exercise program is more critical than thespecific choice of training intensity or type. These results indicate that both aerobic and anaerobic training appear to be valid andeffective strategies for mitigating the cardiometabolic and hematological risks associated with prolonged sedentary behavior.Consequently, workplace wellness initiatives can offer either modality based on employee preference and time availability, as bothprovide robust health benefits for this population.
Background: An acute increase in maximum strength, power, or speed following a conditioning contraction, known as a postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE), has been previously determined to be better performed when the initial exercise is of the same movement pattern. The objective of this study was to examine the utilization of varying loads of a hex-bar farmer’s walk (HBFW) completed at 20 meters and its subsequent impact on 20-metre sprinting performance. Methods: In a randomized and counterbalanced design, 18 college-aged individuals with resistance and running experience completed five 20-meter sprints (with 10-meter splits) at baseline, 4, 8, 12, and 16 minutes after a control (no load), and a farmer’s walk utilizing 70% and 80% of their hex-bar deadlift one-repetition maximum (1-RM). Results: A significant condition x time interaction was observed at both 10-meter and 20-meter was found using a two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (alpha = 0.05). In both instances, there was an improvement from baseline in average speed for both the 70% and 80% conditions compared to the control. Conclusions: These findings suggest that 70% and, more noticeably, 80% 1-RM HBFW may result in PAPE following a predetermined rest interval. These outcomes suggest that using 80% 1-RM HBFW during the warm-up may enhance sprint velocity during training or pre-competition.
Background. Acute neuromuscular responses to training are key for optimizing performance and mitigating injury risk. This study evaluated immediate changes in muscle contractile properties after a sport-specific load in elite kickboxers. Methods. Six elite Slovak male kickboxers underwent tensiomyography (TMG) immediately before and after a standardized 75-minute session. TMG was recorded bilaterally in ten muscles: biceps brachii, triceps brachii, pectoralis major, rectus abdominis, rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius medialis, and gluteus maximus. Primary outcomes were contraction time (Tc), maximal radial displacement (Dm) and contraction velocity (Vc) were also derived. Pre- to post-differences were tested with Wilcoxon matched pairs. Results. After the 75-minute high-intensity kickboxing session, Tc increased significantly in both vastus medialis and rectus femoris (p = 0.046). Dm increased locally in the left biceps femoris and right gastrocnemius medialis (p = 0.028). Vc was largely unchanged overall but increased significantly in the left biceps femoris, right gastrocnemius medialis, right and left tibialis anterior, and right triceps brachii (p ≤ 0.046). Conclusion. A single high-intensity kickboxing session elicits clear, asymmetric, and muscle-specific changes in contractile behavior, reflecting the coexistence of transient fatigue and potentiation across the lower and upper limbs. These findings underscore the heterogeneous neuromuscular demands of kickboxing and support the use of TMG for individualized, post-session monitoring and recovery planning in high-intensity combat sports.
Background: This article assumes that junior football competitions are the most demanding for players, as they represent the final stage before moving up to the senior level. The aim of this article is therefore to gain insight into the internal motivation of junior football players aged 18–20. Methods: A total of 150 football players from Lower Silesia, Poland, were examined in three age groups: junior category A2 (aged 18, n = 50), junior category A1 (aged 19, n = 50) and under 21 U21 (aged 20, n = 50). The Intrinsic Drive Questionnaire was used. The level of significance was set at α = 0.05. Results: Junior A2 players (M = 73.70; SD = 7.82) demonstrated significantly greater intrinsic motivation than both junior A1 players (M = 68.12; SD = 10.19) and U21 players (M = 65.42; SD = 12.08). However, there was no significant difference between A1 juniors and U21 players. Conclusions: Eighteen-year-old football players have significantly higher intrinsic motivation than nineteen- and twenty-yearolds. Nineteen- and twenty-year-old football players have intrinsic motivation at a similar level. Nevertheless, all three groups demonstrated high levels of intrinsic motivation.
Background: Vertical jump performance is a key indicator of athletic ability, however, evidence on its relationship with body weight remains inconsistent. Since jump performance depends on strength, body composition, and neuromuscular factors, it was hypothesized that vertical jump performance would not be adversely affected by body weight in athletes with average BMI. This study examined the relationship between body weight, BMI, and vertical jump performance in young basketball players. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 29 male basketball players (mean body weight 77.27 9.20 kg; BMI 22.97 0.97) who volunteered to participate. Standardized biometric assessments and vertical jump tests were administered. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to assess associations between body weight, BMI, and jump performance. Results: Moderate positive correlations were identified between body weight and vertical jump performance (r = 0.392, p < 0.05) and between BMI and vertical jump performance (r = 0.394, p < 0.05). However, low explanatory power (R) indicates limited predictive value of body weight and BMI. A strong positive correlation between body weight and BMI (r = 0.550, p < 0.01) was also observed. Conclusion: Body weight and BMI showed limited predictive ability for vertical jump performance in young basketball players. Factors such as muscular strength, fat percentage, and neuromuscular efficiency may play a more significant role in jump ability. These findings highlight the necessity of comprehensive performance assessment and individualized training strategies in athletic populations.
Background: Modern society is struggling with increasing stress, educational and professional pressures, and lifestyle changes that negatively affect physical, mental, and cognitive health. Physical activity plays a key role in improving health by supporting cognitive function, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and enhancing mental well-being. Particularly among young people, physical activity fosters the development of cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, and planning, which translates into better educational outcomes. This article analyzes the correlation between somatic structure, physical fitness, and the cognitive abilities of students aged 13 to 18. The aim of the study is to assess the correlation between somatic structure, physical fitness level, and cognitive abilities in a group of secondary school students. Methods: The study involved 104 students (53 females and 51 males) aged 13–18 from a high school in Rzeszów, Poland. A personal questionnaire, the D-2r test, and the Alpha fitness test were used. Data analysis was based on the Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman’s rank correlation. Results: No significant correlations were found between components of physical fitness and cognitive abilities or grades in subjects such as Polish, Mathematics, and English. Conclusions: Despite the lack of correlation between physical fitness and cognitive abilities, including academic achievement in the studied group, it is worth expanding and exploring this area of research. Students with normal BMI, body fat percentage, and WHR and WHtR ratios exhibited lower body fat levels and a favorable somatic profile.
Background: Competition in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) includes two formats: NoGi (shorts and grappling shirt) and Gi (kimonos). Identifying key motor fitness components is essential due to the specific physical demands of each format. The aim of this study was to assess the differences in motor fitness among BJJ athletes based on their specialization in different fighting formats (Gi vs. NoGi). Methods: Twenty-four male BJJ athletes were divided into two groups by fighting style: NoGi (n=12; age 23.321.25 years; training experience 5.501.88 years) and Gi (n=12; age 23.001.72 years; training experience 5.832.33 years). Motor potential was assessed using non-specific tests (Eurofit battery, computer-based test) and BJJ-specific tests (hanging on a judogi). Relative strength (SW) and anaerobic power (MPA) indices were also calculated. Results: The analysis showed significant differences in motor fitness between Gi and NoGi athletes (p<0.05). The Gi group outperformed in grip strength and bent-arm hang (dc=0.95–1.04), while the NoGi group showed superior results in reaction time, explosive strength, and hybrid agility (dc=1.50–1.63). Other aspects were similar (p>0.05), except for moderate advantages in anaerobic power (dc=0.40) for NoGi and relative strength indices favoring the Gi group (dc=0.70–0.77). Conclusions: NoGi athletes showed a strength-speed motor profile, while Gi athletes exhibited an endurance-strength profile, emphasizing upper-limb isometric endurance for gripping the judogi. These differences reflect distinct motor demands and adaptive strategies in BJJ sub-disciplines, supporting targeted diagnosis, interpretation, and training optimization based on specific performance profiles and sport-specific requirements.
Background: Energy saving in race walking is an essential element of sports competition. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of increasing velocity in elite race walkers within the range of 8 to 15kmhr-1 on lateral, anterior-posterior, and vertical displacements of the center of mass (CoM), standardized for body height and stride length. Methods: The study involved 10 competitive race walkers of international champion level. They performed walking tests on a treadmill, with velocity increased by 1 kmhr-1 from 8 kmhr-1 to 15 kmhr-1. Movement was recorded using the Vicon system for motion spatial capture. Absolute, momentary lateral CoM_X(t), anterior-posterior CoM_Y(t), and vertical CoM_Z(t) changes in CoM placement in the gait cycle were calculated using a kinematic method and then standardized for body height (H) and stride length (STRL). Results: Increased gait velocity was associated with greater lateral CoM_X(t)std oscillations (by ca. 0.21% for H) and a decrease by 0.91% for STRL. These changes were statistically significantly different for technical and starting speeds, as well as between the lowest experimental speed and threshold/racing speeds. The anterior-posterior CoM_Y(t)std oscillations decreased by ca. 0.45% (H) and 1.79% (STRL), showing significant differences for technical, threshold, and racing speeds, as well as between the lowest experimental speed and technical, threshold, and racing speeds. The vertical component CoM_Z(t)std initially increased by 0.27% (STRL) up to 11 kmhr-1, and then decreased by 0.5% (STRL) to 15kmhr-1, whereas the variable standardized for body height increased by 0.56% (H), demonstrating significant contrasts between the lowest experimental speed and technical, threshold, and racing speeds. Conclusions: The highest decrease in oscillations (by 1.8% STRL) with increasing gait velocity was recorded for the anteriorposterior displacement of CoM standardized for stride length.
Background: Although sculling training is frequently used by artistic swimmers, its effects on performance enhancement in competitive swimmers are not yet known. This study aimed to (a) examine the effect of eight-week sculling training on stroke mechanics and handgrip strength in adolescent swimmers and (b) follow the changes in their anthropometric characteristics of adolescent swimmers after eight weeks of intervention. Methods: Twenty-eight adolescent swimmers were divided into sculling training group (SG, n=13) and control group (CG, n=15). While the SG performed the sculling training program three days a week in addition to their regular swimming training, the CG only continued their standard swimming training. During 15m front crawl swimming, stroke count (SC), swimming time (ST), swimming speed (SS), stroke rate (SR), and distance per stroke (DpS) measurements were taken pre-and post-trainings. In addition, upper-extremity and chest anthropometric characteristics and handgrip strength were assessed. Results: While a significant decrease in the SC (p=0.003, ES=0.79) and ST (p<0.001, ES=1.22) in sprint swimming performance, and a significant increase in SS (p<0.001, ES=1.24), SR (p=0.012, ES=.66) and DpS (p=0.003, ES=0.72) were observed in SG swimmers. In the CG, only a significant decrease was found in the SR (p=0.04, ES=0.46). Except for the upper arm length and biceps circumference (BC), significant differences were found in anthropometric characteristics (p<0.05). BC (right BC, p=0.04, ES=0.23), right (p<0.001, ES=0.58), and left handgrip strength (p<0.001, ES=0.42) were significantly increased only in the SG. Conclusion. Sculling training may provide a positive improvements in swimming performance with the increase in handgrip strength as well as the improvement in stroke mechanics.
Background: Athletics requires high physical, technical, and psychological preparation, with each discipline in combined events contributing uniquely to the final result. This study examines how individual events impact overall performance in the decathlon and heptathlon. Methods: The study includes an analysis of 570 decathlon results and 272 heptathlon results from the Olympic Games. The data were obtained from the official website of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and analyzed using multiple regression analysis to determine the contribution of each discipline to the overall score. Results: The analysis showed that in the decathlon, the pole vault has the highest contribution to the total score (ß = 0.212, B = 0.997, SE = 0.009), followed by the 110-m hurdles (ß = 0.150) and the javelin throw (ß = 0.127). These results highlight the importance of technical disciplines that require strength, explosiveness, and coordination. Sprint disciplines, such as the 100 m, 400 m, and 1500 m, showed a lower contribution due to the reduced variability of results among competitors. In the heptathlon, the long jump has the most significant impact on the overall score (ß = 0.338, B = 1.025, SE B = 0.089), followed by the javelin throw (ß = 0.235) and the high jump (ß = 0.240). Conclusion: The research results indicate that technical disciplines play a crucial role in achieving top performances in combined events, while sprint disciplines are less significant due to the limited range of results among competitors.
Background: Energy saving in race walking is an essential element of sports competition. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of increasing velocity in elite race walkers within the range of 8 to 15kmhr-1 on lateral, anterior-posterior, and vertical displacements of the center of mass (CoM), standardized for body height and stride length. Methods: The study involved 10 competitive race walkers of international champion level. They performed walking tests on a treadmill, with velocity increased by 1 kmhr-1 from 8 kmhr-1 to 15 kmhr-1. Movement was recorded using the Vicon system for motion spatial capture. Absolute, momentary lateral CoM_X(t), anterior-posterior CoM_Y(t), and vertical CoM_Z(t) changes in CoM placement in the gait cycle were calculated using a kinematic method and then standardized for body height (H) and stride length (STRL). Results: Increased gait velocity was associated with greater lateral CoM_X(t)std oscillations (by ca. 0.21% for H) and a decrease by 0.91% for STRL. These changes were statistically significantly different for technical and starting speeds, as well as between the lowest experimental speed and threshold/racing speeds. The anterior-posterior CoM_Y(t)std oscillations decreased by ca. 0.45% (H) and 1.79% (STRL), showing significant differences for technical, threshold, and racing speeds, as well as between the lowest experimental speed and technical, threshold, and racing speeds. The vertical component CoM_Z(t)std initially increased by 0.27% (STRL) up to 11 kmhr-1, and then decreased by 0.5% (STRL) to 15kmhr-1, whereas the variable standardized for body height increased by 0.56% (H), demonstrating significant contrasts between the lowest experimental speed and technical, threshold, and racing speeds. Conclusions: The highest decrease in oscillations (by 1.8% STRL) with increasing gait velocity was recorded for the anterior-posterior displacement of CoM standardized for stride length.
