Volleyball imposes substantial neuromuscular and biomechanical demands that vary by playing position, yet position-specific differences in movement quality remain underexplored. This cross-sectional study examined Functional Movement Screen scores in elite female volleyball players by playing position and interpreted findings in terms of movement quality, stability–mobility balance, and injury risk. Sixty-two elite junior (adolescent) female players (mean age 14.7 ± 1.5 years; libero n = 9; middle blocker n = 11; setter n = 14; opposite hitter n = 3; outside hitter n = 25) competing in top-tier national leagues participated voluntarily. The seven-subtest Functional Movement Screen was administered by a single Functional Movement Screen–certified evaluator under standardized conditions. Two missing subtest cells were imputed using a K-Nearest-Neighbors procedure (k = 5). Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Shapiro–Wilk normality tests, one-way analysis of variance, analysis of covariance controlling for age and body mass index, Mann–Whitney U pairwise comparisons with Hedges’ g effect sizes, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlations. Total Functional Movement Screen scores did not differ significantly across positions (F(4, 57) = 1.59, p = .19, η² = .10), but the moderate effect size and large pairwise contrasts (opposite vs. outside hedges’ g = −1.33) suggested potentially meaningful position differences. Outside hitters exhibited the highest mean (13.68 ± 1.75), and opposite hitters the lowest (11.33 ± 1.16). Using the Functional Movement Screen ≤ 14 threshold, 79.0% of athletes were classified as at-risk, peaking among opposite hitters (100%) and middle blockers (90.9%). Anthropometric correlations were weak (r ≤ .12). The findings support integrating position-tailored, movement-quality-based corrective training into volleyball performance and injury-prevention programs. Cite this article as: Tuna, G. (2026). Analysis of functional movement screen scores according to playing positions in elite junior female volleyball players. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0034, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.26034.
This study compares the disciplinary decisions of the Turkish Football Federation Professional Football Disciplinary Committee across the 2021–2022, 2022–2023, and 2023–2024 seasons. A total of 7603 decisions, announced on the Turkish Football Federation’s official website and deemed relevant by the researcher, were analyzed: 2159 from 2021 to 2022, 2818 from 2022 to 2023, and 2626 from 2023 to 2024. A longitudinal research design was employed, and analyses were conducted in SPSS 22.0 using the mean and standard deviation. Findings showed that disciplinary decisions most frequently stemmed from incidents in the Super League (23.21%), 1st League (15.98%), and 2nd League Red Group (13.94%). The primary subjects were spectators (34.84%), club legal entities (16.98%), and players (12.61%). The leading causes of sanctions were violations of regulations (23.18%), unsportsmanlike conduct (21.90%), offensive and abusive chanting (20.28%), and field incidents (14.60%). The most common sanctions were monetary fines (35.97%), warnings (17.12%), and bans from dressing rooms and substitutes’ benches combined with fines (13.68%). In terms of monetary penalties, spectators (₺110,096,000), club legal entities (₺53,648,800), club presidents (₺18,697,650), and administrators (₺10,791,850) accounted for the largest shares. Across seasons, disciplinary actions increased in 2022–2023 compared to 2021–2022 (except for a decline in regulation violations) but declined significantly in 2023–2024 (except for an increase in regulation violations). Cite this article as: Şimşek, B. (2026). Longitudinal analysis of the decisions of the professional football disciplinary committee in the 2021–2022 / 2022–2023 and 2023–2024 seasons of the Turkish Football Federation. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0051, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25051
The Neuro Functional Integration system represents an interdisciplinary evolution in kinesiology, synthesizing systemic neuroscience, psycho-neuro-endocrine-immunology, and exercise biology. This paper outlines the Neuro Functional Integration conceptual framework, which models the human organism as an integrated network of interdependent subsystems where skeletal muscle serves as a primary endocrine-metabolic organ. By proposing movement as an epigenetic stimulus capable of influencing gene expression and synaptic plasticity, the Neuro Functional Integration system aims to theorize a roadmap to optimize biological potential and systemic resilience. The proposed theoretical architecture of the system is described, structured around three functional axes and three progressive levels of intervention. A multi-modal monitoring strategy is also discussed, incorporating heart rate variability (HRV) as a proxy for allostatic load regulation. Cite this article as: Nutini, A. (2026). Neuro functional integration: a systemic paradigm for enhancing biological resilience and functional longevity through targeted physical activity. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0019, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.26019.
Muscle oxygen saturation, measured through near-infrared spectroscopy, has emerged as a valuable marker for monitoring exercise intensity, physiological adaptations, and sports performance. This narrative review examines the physiological foundations of muscle oxygen utilization, the principles and validity of near-infrared spectroscopy technology, and its applications in various training modalities, including endurance, interval, and strength-based exercises. Portable near-infrared spectroscopy devices enable real-time, non-invasive assessment of muscle oxygen dynamics in field settings, providing coaches and athletes with precise information on oxygen delivery, consumption, and recovery kinetics. Evidence indicates that muscle oxygen saturation is closely related to metabolic thresholds, lactate accumulation, and internal load, making it a reliable parameter for individualized training prescription and performance optimization. Furthermore, muscle oxygen saturation monitoring offers promising perspectives for strength training, injury prevention, and rehabilitation strategies. By integrating muscle oxygen saturation into performance assessment, sports scientists and practitioners can bridge the gap between laboratory-based physiology and applied field practice, supporting both performance enhancement and athlete health. Cite this article as: Bonilla, A. A., Sepúlveda, R. Y., & Valverde, D. R. (2026). Muscle oxygen saturation as a marker of sports performance. Research in Sports Science, 2026, 16, 0101, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25101
This study aims to examine students’ perspectives on the position of women in the world of sports through interviews conducted before and after a “Women and Sports” course. A phenomenological research design was employed, and data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using NVivo, and reliability was ensured with an 87% agreement based on Cohen’s kappa coefficient. The findings reveal that prior to the course, participants emphasized that increasing women’s visibility in sports would enhance social acceptance and interest, while also highlighting existing barriers such as sexism, social pressures, and media objectification. Following the course, participants proposed solutions including the elimination of gender discrimination, the establishment of merit-based systems, and greater inclusion of women in sports. The results indicate that increased female representation contributes not only to individual empowerment but also to the broader development of the sports domain, supporting gender equality and social justice. Overall, the study underscores the role of sport as a powerful tool for promoting gender equality and highlights the importance of educational programs in facilitating this process. Cite this article as: Eroğlu Eskicioğlu, Y., & Ünlü, H. (2026). The perspective of women in sports through the eyes of faculty of sports sciences students. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0093, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25093.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of active or passive recreational adapted physical activities on older adults. Accordingly, adapted physical activity programs and games were implemented with individuals defined within the older adult classification scale by the World Health Organization, and participants’ experiences and opinions were examined. A total of 13 older adults residing in nursing homes in İstanbul voluntarily participated in the study (female = 4, male = 9; age ≥ 64 years). The study was conducted in a nursing home selected through purposive sampling. The research consisted of three stages. First, recreation leaders and nursing home residents were informed about the study, and eligible individuals aged 64 years and above, with sufficient physical fitness and willingness to participate, were identified. Participants’ functional fitness levels were assessed by the institution’s physiotherapist, and individuals were considered eligible based on the absence of serious limitations in walking, balance, and basic mobility, as well as having no health-related barriers to participation in recreational adapted physical activities. In the second stage, participants were regularly involved in various adapted recreational physical activity sessions for eight weeks. In the final stage, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants’ perceptions and experiences regarding the activities. This study was designed as a qualitative case study, utilizing in-depth one-on-one interview techniques. Semi-structured interview questions were employed as the primary data collection tool. The interviews were audio-recorded, and the data were analyzed using the qualitative analysis software MAXQDA 2020. As a result of the analysis, 12 codes emerged, which were grouped under five main themes: participation, motivation, perceived benefits, activity preference, and expectations. In conclusion, participation in recreational adapted physical activities plays a significant role in enhancing older adults’ motivation and overall experiences, contributing positively to both their physical and psychological well-being. Moreover, such programs serve as an important tool for improving quality of life in older individuals. These findings provide valuable insights for increasing physical activity participation among older adults and developing programs tailored to their specific needs. Cite this article as: Gökçelik, E., & Yaşar, B. Ç. (2026). Participant perspectives on adapted recreational physical activity programs: the nursing home model. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0071, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25071.
The aim of this study is to examine the quality assurance system operations of Faculties of Sports Sciences and Schools of Physical Education and Sports within higher education institutions, as well as the certification processes obtained from various independent organizations. The research population consists of 208 universities in Türkiye, while the sample group includes 90 Faculties of Sports Sciences and 12 Schools of Physical Education and Sports. The quality assurance management systems of universities have been analyzed, including university quality reports, efforts to establish standards in educational processes, accreditation certificates obtained from independent organizations, and quality certifications within the scope of quality management systems. The services provided by faculties and schools have been monitored by quality commissions, which oversee workflow processes and the operational content of the quality management system. This research was conducted using the case study method, supported by qualitative research techniques such as the analysis of written documents and archival records, as well as the examination of exploratory information documents. In conclusion, it has been determined that the implementation processes of quality assurance and management systems in higher education institutions are shared transparently with the public in accordance with the principle of transparency. It was identified that 20 Faculties of Sports Sciences have been accredited by Sports Sciences Accreditation Board (SPORAK), while one School and one Faculty have obtained ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 10002:2018 certifications. Additionally, one school has received Agency for Quality Assurance international accreditation, and one Faculty of Sports Sciences has adopted the EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) Model. It has been observed that universities and faculties aim to provide a high-quality and measurable education service by ensuring that their vision, mission, goals, and strategic plans are in place, along with step-by-step development and improvement processes. Communication channels with prospective and active students, including websites, student information systems, and personnel information system integrations, have been effectively utilized. Quality assurance systems and accreditation processes in higher education not only enhance the academic performance of institutions but also contribute to their societal impact. Cite this article as: Sezen Soyal, T., & Pekel, A. (2026). Examination of the quality assurance system and accreditation certifications of higher education institutions: the case of faculty of sports sciences and school of physical education and sports. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0048, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25048.
This study investigates the future anxiety levels of students studying in sports science programs in relation to various demographic variables. Designed within the framework of quantitative research, the study utilized relational screening and causal-comparative methods. The sample comprised 461 students selected through a non-probability sampling method, specifically convenience sampling. The data were collected using the “Future Anxiety Scale in University Students” developed by Geylani and Giriş Yıldız (2022). Prior to analysis, normality assumptions were tested and parametric tests were applied accordingly. Results revealed that students had above-average levels of future anxiety. Moreover, significant differences were determined based on gender, age, and foreign language proficiency. These findings indicate that both personal and educational background variables may influence students’ levels of future anxiety. The study provides insights that can inform psychological support practices and educational policies aimed at enhancing student well-being. Cite this article as: Kaçay, Z. (2026). Future anxiety in sport sciences students: an analysis based on demographic variables. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0105, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25105.
This phenomenological study aims to examine the experiences of pre-service physical education teachers regarding a ten-week volleyball course conducted using the Sport Education Model. Data were collected from eight teacher candidates through individual interviews and researcher field notes. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the views of the eight students selected through purposive sampling, three main themes were identified (1) development of professional identity and teaching skills, (2) teamwork and social interaction, and (3) motivation and sense of responsibility. The findings revealed that Sport Education Model contributed to the development of both the professional competencies and social skills of the teacher candidates. Their active participation in the instructional process helped them internalize the teaching role and reinforce their professional identity. Furthermore, the team-based structure of Sport Education Model positively influenced skills such as collaboration, communication, and taking responsibility among the teacher candidates. The results indicate that Sport Education Model is an effective model in teacher training and that model-based approaches significantly contribute to both the professional and personal development of pre-service teachers. Cite this article as: Yılmaz, E. B. (2026). Experiences of pre-service physical education teachers with volleyball lessons implemented using the sports education model. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0064, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25064.
This research was conducted to examine the dark triad personality traits, love-hate, and psychological commitment of football fans. The study sample consisted of a total of 966 adult fans residing in the province of Adana who support Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Adana Demirspor, and Adanaspor. Participants were administered the Short Dark Triad personality Scale, the Love-Hate Scale, and the Fan Psychological Commitment Scale. Descriptive statistics, t-test, analysis of variance, regression, and cluster analysis were used in the analysis of the data. Galatasaray fans scored statistically higher in all sub-dimensions of the dark triad and in their levels of hate compared to fans of other teams (p < .05). Beşiktaş fans had the lowest average hate score. In the sub-dimensions of psychological commitment, Galatasaray fans stood out in personal identification and affective commitment, while local team fans stood out in regional commitment. In the comparison by gender, female fans’ hate and narcissism scores were found to be significantly higher than males, while male fans obtained higher scores in psychological cost and regional commitment. Regression analyses showed that the strongest predictor of love for the team was Machiavellianism, while hate was narcissism. As a result of the cluster analysis, fans were divided into three profiles. The vast majority of Galatasaray fans were concentrated in the passionate fans group. In conclusion, this study reveals that the psychological dynamics underlying football fandom are closely related, particularly to dark triad personality traits, and that the fan experience is shaped together with factors such as team preference, gender, and regional belonging. Cite this article as: Bilir, İ., & Kesilmiş, İ. (2026). Evaluation of the dark triad personality traits, love-hate, and psychological commitment of football fans. Research in Sports Science, 2026; 16, 0014, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.26014.
The purpose of this study was to explore the factors affecting the motivation of middle school students within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. In this case study, twenty-four 7th-grade students (14 female, 10 male; mean age: 12.5) were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through focus group interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings were divided into themes, categories, and codes under the three basic needs of Self-Determination Theory: relatedness, competence, and autonomy. According to the theme of relatedness, it was concluded that students were more motivated when they were given opportunities for social interaction, such as spending time with friends or social interaction with the teacher. According to the theme of competence, it was concluded that students’ motivation increased when they were supported by factors such as improving their physical skills, feeling triumphant, and setting goals. According to the autonomy theme, students’ motivation increased when their desire to choose activities freely, act independently, and experience different sports were met. Overall, it was concluded that students’ motivation to participate in physical education classes is compatible with the three basic psychological needs (relatedness, competence (sense of achievement), and autonomy) within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. The fulfillment of these needs increases students’ interest and motivation in the lesson and has the potential to develop positive attitudes toward the physical education. As a result, increasing the opportunities for relatedness, competence, and autonomy in physical education classes is recommended. Cite this article as: Yılmaz, E. B., Dalkıran, O., & Uysal, S. N. (2026). Motivations of secondary school students toward physical education class: relatedness, competence and autonomy. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0015, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25015.
The aim of this study is to adapt the Gamer Identity Scale, developed by Yim et al. (2023), to Turkish culture. In this study, a survey model was used to reach 259 participants aged 18 and over who are interested in esports. To test the validity of the scale, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted based on its original structure, consisting of 9 items and a single-factor model. Upon examining the model fit indices obtained from the analysis, it was found that χ2/df = 1.79, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.05, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.98, Tucker–Lewis Index = 0.98, and Standardized Root Mean Square Residual = 0.055, indicating that these values are sufficient to confirm the construct validity of the scale. For reliability analysis, Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega coefficients were calculated, with the alpha coefficient found to be (Cronbach’s α = .83) and the McDonald’s omega value (McDonald’s ω = .83). As a result of the analyses, it was determined that the Gamer Identity Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool suitable for Turkish culture. Cite this article as: Gümüşboğa, İ., Keskinkılıç, M. E., & Kaya, G. Y. (2026). Esports gamer identity scale: Turkish adaptation study. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0022, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25022.
This study examined the effects of an eight-week combined strength and power training program on body composition and physical performance in well-trained youth soccer players. Twenty-one male participants from the same professional club’s U14 (n = 12; 159.1 ± 11.4 cm, 41.7 ± 10.7 kg) and U16 (n = 9; 167.4 ± 4.2 cm, 53.2 ± 4.3 kg) age categories participated in baseline testing after a two-week familiarization period. Tests included body fat percentage (via BIA), countermovement jump, single-leg jump (SLJ), eccentric hamstring strength (NordBord), 30 m sprint, T-test, and submaximal intermittent shuttle-run. During the eight-week protocol, in addition to regular soccer training, resistance training sessions focusing on high-load/low-velocity (MD-4) and low-load/high-velocity (MD-2) were applied twice a week. Post-tests revealed significant improvements in body fat percentage (−9 to 11%) and eccentric hamstring strength (≈+17%) in both groups (p < .01). While countermovement jump performance increased in U16 players (≈+8%), the U14 group showed greater improvements in SLJ (≈+8%) and T-test agility (−3.3%) (p < .05). No statistical changes were detected in sprint times or submaximal recovery. Between-group comparisons indicated that agility performance differed significantly in favor of the U14 group. Data were evaluated using paired t-tests, ANCOVA, and 2 × 2 ANOVA after checking for normality with Shapiro–Wilk; effect sizes were reported according to Cohen’s classification. The findings suggest that age-specific structured combined strength and power programs can improve body composition and neuromuscular abilities in youth soccer players; however, sprint performance may require longer-duration or more specific stimuli. Cite this article as: Atabaş, EG., & Yapıcı, A. (2026). The effect of 8-week combined strength and power training on performance development in elite youth soccer players. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0084, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25084.
The aim of this study is to understand the meaning and function that professional kickboxers attribute to their leisure time, their subjective experiences, how they organize it, and the motivations that guide them in using their leisure time by analyzing it with a qualitative and phenomenological approach. This study adopts a descriptive phenomenological approach, a qualitative research methodology, to deeply analyze the subjective experiences of athletes. The “homogeneous case sampling” method was used to determine the sample group. Interviews were conducted with 14 kickboxing athletes who have national and international rankings. A “semi-structured interview form” developed by the researchers was used in the data collection processes. While creating the interview forms, relevant literature was reviewed, and the pilot interview questions were presented to two athletes who are experts in the relevant branches and two academics in the fields of sports sciences and leisure for review in terms of understandability and scope, and updates were made based on their suggestions. During the interviews, voice recorders were used with the permission of the participants. The MAXQDA 2020 program was used in the data analysis. Thirteen codes and subcodes emerged after the analysis of the data obtained from the interviews. These codes were grouped under the themes of “perception, need, and function of leisure time, athlete identity and intensity, leisure time activities, social interaction and emotional support.” Based on the findings from the study, it is clear that athletes involved in professional kickboxing view leisure as crucial for physical and mental recovery, stress management, and personal balance. However, the intense dynamics of athletic life severely limit access to these opportunities. Consequently, it is recommended that individuals raise awareness of the importance of leisure and encourage recreational activities, personal recovery, socialization, and development practices to complement athletes’ mental and physical health without compromising their athletic life. Cite this article as: Arıcı, M., & Deryahanoğlu, G. (2026). Leisure habits of professional kickboxers. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0112, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25112.
The purpose of this study is to develop the “Picnic Motivation Scale” to determine the factors that motivate individuals to go picnicking and to determine picnicker profiles. Within the scope of this descriptive research study, 325 data points were collected from adult individuals who had picnics in picnic areas using a purposive sampling method through a face-to-face/online survey method. The survey form consists of a 24-item list of questions that examine the purposes of individuals picnicking, in addition to information about demographics. In the study, the Kaiser–Mayer–Olkin value was found to be 0.907 and the values of the Bartlett sphericity tests were found to be $x^2 = 4792.242$, SD = 276, p = .000. According to the results, Explanatory Factor Analysis was applied to the scale. The Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was found to be 0.924 and the variance it explained was 69.9%. Picnic Motivation Scale; “physical/mental health and desire to rest,” “getting away from,” “gourmet and creating taste,” “socialization,” and “nostalgia” are factored into five factors. Confirmatory Factor Analysis was applied to the scale and when the fit indices were examined, the fit levels of the model were found to be sufficient. The results show that Picnic Motivation Scale is valid and reliable for the Turkish population. In addition, when cluster analysis was applied to the scale, three different picnicker profiles emerged according to Picnic Motivation Scale as “conscious,” “ordinary,” and “unconscious.” Cite this article as: Yaşar, B. Ç., & Ardahan, F. (2026). Development of picnic motivation scale and determination of picnicker profiles. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0072, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25072.
Kenya’s global reputation in athletics is built on the success of able-bodied athletes under Athletics Kenya (AK), while para athletes governed by the Kenya National Paralympic Committee (KNPC) face systemic challenges that hinder their development. This study explores the structural and experiential links between para and able-bodied athletics, focusing on comparative access to training camps, competitions, sponsorships, and employment opportunities. Drawing on qualitative interviews with twenty para athletes, the research reveals disparities in institutional support, yet also uncovers moments of integration such as joint training and shared coaching that foster tactical learning and motivational resilience. The findings underscore the need for an inclusive and resilient athlete development model that harmonizes para and able-bodied systems. Such a model would leverage existing infrastructure, promote equitable sponsorship, and align policy frameworks to support all athletes. By reimagining para athletics through the lens of innovation and sustainability, Kenya can build a business model that not only enhances performance but also drives social inclusion, economic empowerment, and national unity. This approach reflects the broader imperative of adapting sports governance to a changing global economy, where resilience and equity are central to sustainable success. Cite this article as: Kiptembur, J. K. (2026). Inclusive and resilient athlete development models: linking para and able-bodied athletics in Kenya’s changing economy. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0095, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25095.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of stroke length and stroke cycle duration on swimming speed in female swimmers in the short-distance butterfly event. Seventy-two volunteer female swimmers from Istanbul who participated in a 50 m butterfly swimming competition were included in the study. The participants had a mean age of 12.78 ± 0.30 years, a mean training experience of 3.37 ± 0.69 years, a mean height of 1.57 ± 0.08 m, a mean arm span of 1.58 ± 0.07 m, a mean body mass of 46.19 ± 0.07 kg, a mean body mass index of 22.76 ± 2.75 kg/ m2, and a mean 50 m butterfly time of 38.69 ± 3.94 seconds. The swimmers’ performances during the competition were recorded from start to finish using two synchronized cameras placed poolside. Video recordings were analyzed with Kinovea 2023.1.2 software to determine underwater ascent distance and time, first and second 25 m split times, stroke count, stroke duration, and stroke length. The data were normally distributed and analyzed using paired-samples t-tests and simple linear regression. Significant differences were found between the first and second 25 m phases in stroke mechanics and velocity parameters (p < .05). The results showed that 50 m swimming velocity was significantly predicted by 25 m velocity (R = .94, p = .001) and stroke cycle duration (R = −0.63, p = .001) in the first 25 m, and by 25 m velocity (R = 0.98, p = .001) and stroke cycle duration (R = −0.65, p = .001) in the second 25 m. The findings indicate that performance parameters differ significantly across the two race phases in short-distance butterfly events, and that especially the velocity and stroke duration in the second 25 m play a decisive role in determining the total 50 m performance. Therefore, training programs should emphasize stroke duration drills and exercises that enhance speed in the second half of the race. Cite this article as: Özüak, A. (2026). Effect of arm pull distance and duration on performance in butterfly style race. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0104, doi: 10.5152/ rss.2026.25104.
This study aims to develop and validate a scale for measuring green exercise behavior. Five hundred twenty-three participants were included in this study. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted with 204 participants and confirmatory factor analysis was conducted with 319 participants. The Green Exercise Scale had a 7-item, one-factor structure. The explained variance of the scale was 60%. The model fit indices were χ2/df = 3.708, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = .983, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = .968, and Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) = .022. Configural, metric, and scalar invariance across gender was confirmed. The Cronbach’s alpha value of the scale was .93. The correlation between the Green Exercise Scale and the Satisfaction with Life Scale was .21 (p < .001). This study makes a significant contribution to the methodological development of outdoor recreation, physical activity, and health-related fields by introducing a brief but comprehensive tool for measuring green exercise behavior. Cite this article as: Aydemir, B., & Çetinkaya, G. (2026). Green exercise scale: development and validation. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0062, doi: 10.5152/rss.2026.25062.
This study aims to investigate the attitudes of physical education teacher candidates toward teaching students with special needs. The study, designed as a descriptive survey, involved 284 teacher candidates studying in physical education teacher training departments at universities. Data were collected using the “Attitudes of Physical Education Teachers Toward the Education of Individuals with Disabilities-III” scale. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used for data analysis. The findings obtained as a result of the analyses revealed that the attitudes of physical education teacher candidates toward the teaching students with special needs were negative. It was determined that the attitude scores of physical education teacher candidates toward the teaching students with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder were lower than their attitude scores toward other special needs groups. In addition, it was observed that teacher candidates who had individuals with special needs in their families, who had previously taught individuals with special needs, and who had taken courses on individuals with special needs during their undergraduate education had higher attitude scores, while there was no significant difference in the attitude scores of physical education teacher candidates according to gender. In light of these findings, it is recommended that application-oriented course content be created during undergraduate education and that activities be organized in which physical education teacher candidates participate together with students with special needs, in order to contribute to the development of positive attitudes toward the teaching students with special needs among physical education teacher candidates. Cite this article as: Aydemir, U. (2026). Examining the attitudes of physical education teacher candidates toward the teaching of students with special needs. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0074, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25074.
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a home-based exercise program accompanied by music on physical activity level, motivation, fatigue, functional capacity, quality of life, and psychosocial well-being in sedentary women. Designed as a randomized controlled study, 60 sedentary female participants were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 30) and control (n = 30) groups. The intervention group participated in a 50-minute music-supported exercise program twice weekly for 4 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Quality of Life Scale in Older People (CASP-19), the Health-Related Quality of Life Scale (SF-36), Adult Motivation Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Timed Up and Go test. Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group in terms of physical activity (p < .001), intrinsic motivation (p < .001), quality of life (SF-36), and psychosocial well-being (CASP-19), along with a significant decrease in fatigue levels (p = .001) and Timed Up and Go time (p < .001). Effect sizes were moderate to large. No significant changes were observed in the control group. The music-accompanied exercise program led to multidimensional improvements in both physical and psychosocial parameters among sedentary women. These findings suggest that structured, music-integrated interventions can effectively promote active lifestyle habits and enhance well-being. Cite this article as: Yıldız, A., Arslan, N., Bozkurt, B., & Güleryüz, İ. (2026). Creating rhythm in physical activity: the contribution of music accompanied exercise to well-being: randomized controlled study. Research in Sports Science, 16, 0052, doi:10.5152/rss.2026.25078
