Background: The study seeks to bridge a gap and test whether autonomous motivation acts as a mediator of the relationship between coaching autonomy support and team climate perceptions in Ghanaian sport. Methods: One hundred and thirteen student-athletes (average age 21.4 years, 42% female) in university sport teams filled out questionnaires for assessing the coaches’ autonomy support to their athletes, autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and the climate of their team. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to verify the theoretical structure of the measurement model. A structural equation model was developed to analyse direct and indirect effects using the statistical procedure in the weighted least squares with mean variance adjustment estimation and bootstrapping mediation analysis (2,000 resamples). Results: Coaching autonomy support significantly predicted autonomous motivation (β = .94, p < .001, R² = .619). Autonomous motivation significantly predicted team climate (β = 0.26, p = .03). The indirect path from coaching autonomy support to team climate was significant (indirect effect = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.017–0.488), providing evidence of mediation. Controlled motivation was unrelated to team climate (β = –0.01, p = .91). The structural model accounted for 74% of the variance in team climate (RMSEA = .066; CFI = .998). Conclusion: Coaching autonomy support operates as a distal predictor of team climate through autonomous motivation. Autonomy-supportive coaching interventions represent high-impact leverage points for enhancing individual motivation and collective team functioning in university sport contexts. Keywords: Psychological need satisfaction, athlete engagement, wellbeing, motivational pathways, sports coaching behavior
Background: The study seeks to bridge a gap and test whether autonomous motivation acts as a mediator of the relationship between coaching autonomy support and team climate perceptions in Ghanaian sport. Methods: One hundred and thirteen student-athletes (average age 21.4 years, 42% female) in university sport teams filled out questionnaires for assessing the coaches’ autonomy support to their athletes, autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and the climate of their team. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to verify the theoretical structure of the measurement model. A structural equation model was developed to analyse direct and indirect effects using the statistical procedure in the weighted least squares with mean variance adjustment estimation and bootstrapping mediation analysis (2,000 resamples). Results: Coaching autonomy support significantly predicted autonomous motivation (β = .94, p < .001, R² = .619). Autonomous motivation significantly predicted team climate (β = 0.26, p = .03). The indirect path from coaching autonomy support to team climate was significant (indirect effect = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.017–0.488), providing evidence of mediation. Controlled motivation was unrelated to team climate (β = –0.01, p = .91). The structural model accounted for 74% of the variance in team climate (RMSEA = .066; CFI = .998). Conclusion: Coaching autonomy support operates as a distal predictor of team climate through autonomous motivation. Autonomy-supportive coaching interventions represent high-impact leverage points for enhancing individual motivation and collective team functioning in university sport contexts. Keywords: Psychological need satisfaction, athlete engagement, wellbeing, motivational pathways, sports coaching behavior
Background: Limited research addresses variations in the effective playing time (EPT) across sets or matches, particularly within the collegiate female athlete population. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the EPT and rally characteristics in women’s collegiate volleyball among different sets. Methods: Data were collected from 14 matches (49 sets, 2,094 points) played among six female university teams. Rally duration, rest intervals between rallies and sets, number of touches, rallies, and three-pass sequences were recorded. EPT and work-to-rest ratios were calculated. Rally length was categorised as short (<5 s), medium (5–10 s), or long (>10 s). Results: The results showed that EPT was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in the third and fourth sets compared with the first and second sets. Rally duration, number of touches, and occurrence of three-pass sequences also demonstrated upward trends in later sets. Additionally, the proportion of short rallies was significantly lower in the first three sets compared with the fifth set. Conclusion: These findings suggest that EPT tends to increase in the later sets compared to the initial sets, potentially reflecting increased match intensity as the game progresses. Recognising such patterns can help coaches and practitioners develop more targeted conditioning strategies to meet the physical demands of competition. Keywords: Active playing time, performance analysis, team sports, work to rest ratio, number of touches
The positive effect movement has on physical health and wellbeing is well established, yet how it affects cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and creativity has recently attracted growing research interest. The study presented here was designed as an exploratory investigation to examine the effect movement had on memory retention for a set of 20 multi-word expressions (e.g. idioms) among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners and how it impacted their affective states. Using a randomised controlled trial with a mixed-design structure, 32 participants either sat and read a graded reader or walked on a treadmill for 20 minutes prior to a learning session. Data from immediate and delayed posttests and pre- and post-PANAS questionnaires were analysed. Results show that movement enhanced learning on both tests and improved positive affect, whereas no differences were found for negative affect. Fitness level was included as a covariate but did not account for the observed group differences. Pedagogical implications of this research are discussed within an embodied learning framework, highlighting the role the body plays in cognitive processes, particularly memory. Keywords: Physical activity, exercise, memory, cognition, learning, multiword expressions, EFL
Introduction: Wearable medical devices are increasingly integrated in physiotherapy to enable exercise optimisation, remote monitoring of therapy progress, and tailoring of treatment plans based on individual needs. However, their current utilisation in clinical practice in India remains limited and at an early stage, as physiotherapy largely remains a manual skill-based profession in which hands-on techniques often supersede wearable devices. This study aimed to identify the potential facilitators and barriers to the adoption of these devices. Methodology: A questionnaire with a mix of open-ended and closed-ended questions was developed to survey actively practicing clinical physiotherapists. It was developed in English, the standard language used by most physiotherapists in India and disseminated to potential participants via social media platforms. Informed consent was obtained from all participants. A total of 62 participants completed the survey. Results: Wearable medical devices have substantial potential to improve patient care when incorporated into clinical physiotherapy practice, but time restrictions, lack of training, limited market access, concerns about data privacy and reliability, and the high cost of these devices were identified as major barriers to widespread adoption. Addressing existing barriers is regarded to be essential to facilitate effective implementation. Conclusion: Continuous advancements and adequate implementation strategies are recommended for wearable medical devices to develop their potential to revolutionise physiotherapy practice in India by making it more efficient, personalised, and outcome-driven. Keywords: Wearable technology, physiotherapy, medical devices, remote monitoring, digital health
Purpose: Women remain under-represented in many sport settings, and they are particularly under-represented in research. Between 2014 and 2020, only 34% of participants in sport and exercise science studies were female, with less than 10% of studies focused solely on females (Cowley et al., 2021). Additionally, there is often a lack of collective thinking and action across universities and the sport sector in research about women in sport, including on the island of Ireland. Methods: To support the strategic development of research within this region, we conducted a scoping review to systematically identify, analyse, and synthesise existing literature about women in sport on the island of Ireland. Research about women in sport in Ireland has grown significantly over the last five years. Results: Primary topics fell into five main areas: injury (k = 86), sport performance (k = 72), sport, health, and wellbeing (k = 65), society and culture (k = 38), and coaching and professional practice (k = 13). We identified numerous trends, including the dominance of cross-sectional research designs and quantitative methods, tendency to conduct research through a monodisciplinary lens, and inconsistent reporting of sex/gender in published literature. Conclusion: While this review highlights research priorities specific to the island of Ireland, it offers a template for other regions to replicate and some relevant learning for researchers worldwide in their respective and collective efforts to improve the experiences of women in sport. We have developed our work into a public facing report and other dissemination materials to advocate for change.
Background: With the rapid development of digital technology, the internet has become an indispensable part of college students’ daily lives. However, excessive internet use may lead to internet addiction, which can negatively impact quality of life. Physical activity not only improves physical health but also has positive effects on mental health and overall quality of life. Objective: This study explored the relationships of internet addiction, physical activity, and quality of life among college students. Method: One hundred forty-one college students (N = 141, Mage = 21.45, SD = 1.38 years) in Taiwan participated in this study. Among the participants, 39.7% were male (n = 56; Mage = 21.6, SD = 1.42) and 60.2% were female (n = 85; Mage = 21.4, SD = 1.29). Levels of internet addiction were measured using the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), physical activity was measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and quality of life was measured by the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: Significant negative correlation between internet addiction and quality of life, while physical activity was significantly positively correlated with quality of life. Among the participants, students in foreign languages, mathematics and science, and engineering majors had higher internet addiction than those in life sciences. Conclusion: These findings suggest that physical activity may play an important role in reducing the risk of internet addiction and enhancing the quality of life among college students. Keywords: Internet addiction, physical activity, quality of life, college students
Background: Although according to previous studies hosting major sport events contributes a wide range of economic, infrastructural, social, cultural, and sporting benefits to local communities, many countries cannot take the risk of providing initial funding for hosting. Small-scale sport events, with less financial and professional investment than mega-events, offer good opportunities and positive social consequences for the host communities. This is if such events are branded to become distinguishable and sustainable. Methods: We used a mixed-methods and 360-degree perspective to analyse the branding of small-scale sport events. We conducted interviews with event organisers as well as experts in sport marketing and branding and subsequently collected data from event participants by utilising a questionnaire to create a model. Results: The findings identify six key domains relevant to the branding of small-scale sport events in Iran: leadership and organising committees, event nature, venue features, brand orientation, media, and innovative technology. Conclusion: Factors like media attention, public relations, promotions, social networks, social media, sponsorships, and celebrity involvement tend to exert more impact on smaller events than they do on larger ones. It is crucial to understand that in significant sport events, some items like technology and event management are vital for event branding, whereas these components are less critical for smaller events. Therefore, it is important to consider the relevance scores of the model factors identified in our research when planning and allocating budgets for branding small-scale events in Iran. Keywords: Sports competitions, branding, sport marketing, hosting events
Background: This study addresses the need to better understand the effects of spinal stabilisation on movement biomechanics and injury prevention in young basketball players. Such knowledge may support the development of more effective training programmes aimed at improving performance and reducing injury risk. Methods: The study involved 30 subjects who play basketball four times a week, all of whom were born in the same year and belong to the U15 age group. The subjects were divided into two groups: experimental (n = 18) and control (n = 12). The assessment was carried out twice, before and after a four-week core stabilisation exercise programme. Static balance was assessed using a one-leg standing test with eyes closed. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Y-Balance Test. Results: After four weeks of the exercise programme, the experimental group’s static balance improved significantly (p < 0.05). The dynamic balance results of the experimental group, assessed by the distance pushed away in cm and the composite score % for each direction, improved (p < 0.05) in all three directions for the left leg and in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions for the right leg. In the control group, improvement (p < 0.05) was observed in the posterolateral direction with the left leg and in the posteromedial direction with the right leg. When evaluating the composite score, the results improved (p < 0.05) in both groups. Conclusion: Spinal stabilisation exercises can effectively improve both static and dynamic balance in young basketball players, indicating their potential value for performance enhancement and injury prevention. Keywords: Core stability, postural control, youth athletes
Background and objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for nearly 20 million deaths in 2022, representing approximately 32% of global mortality. Projections indicate that between 2025 and 2050, the prevalence of CVD may increase by up to 90%, with overall mortality expected to rise by 73.4% (Chong et al., 2025). Regular physical activity has been consistently associated with a reduced risk of CVD and premature death (Pavlović et al., 2022). Although numerous forms of physical activity have been shown to provide general health benefits, there is limited understanding of their specific and differential effects on the CVD, particularly in relation to both acute responses and long-term adaptations (Egan & Sharples, 2023). Nevertheless, despite continuous advancements in exercise-based interventions, rigorous evaluation of their effectiveness, physiological impact, and safety remains essential (Pelchovitz et al., 2012). Traditional monitoring approaches often rely on single physiological parameters, which may not adequately reflect the complex interactions between cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems during exercise and recovery. Recent advances in electrocardiographic (ECG) analysis, including algebraic data cointegration methods, enable the assessment of dynamic relationships between ECG parameters and may provide a more sensitive evaluation of functional adaptations. Therefore, this doctoral dissertation aimed to determine the peculiarities of cardiovascular changes during endurance, strength tasks, or multimodal exercise programmes applied for health-promoting purposes. Methods: This study was conducted at the Institute of Sport Science and Innovations of the Lithuanian Sports University following approval from the Lithuanian Bioethics Committee (Approval No. 2020-01-23, Ref. L-20-1/2). All procedures complied with the Declaration of Helsinki, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. A total of 72 physically inactive male participants aged 20–35 years were enrolled and allocated into three groups according to exercise modality: endurance (n = 24), strength (n = 26), and multimodal (n = 22). None of the participants had engaged in structured physical training during the previous three years. The study evaluated both acute adaptation (following a single 60-minute training session (TS)) and long-term adaptation (after a 6-week supervised exercise programme (EP) performed three times per week). Training modalities included endurance exercise performed at 70–85% of heart rate (HR) reserve, strength training at approximately 70% of one-repetition maximum (1RM), and multimodal training combining aerobic exercise (70–85% HR reserve) with resistance exercise at up to 50% 1RM. Exercise intensity was individually prescribed and progressively adjusted. Measurements included anthropometric assessment, physical activity evaluation using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), arterial blood pressure, 12-lead electrocardiography (HR, JT interval, ST segment, QRS complex). Data were analysed using mixed-design ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and an algebraic co-integration method. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Study I (ACUTE adaptation): Endurance TS induced the most pronounced HR responses during the Ruffier dosed workload, with significantly higher baseline (from 69.7 ± 5.6 bpm to 90.3 ± 3.6 bpm, p < 0.05), maximal (from 123.0 ± 5.7 bpm to 134.0 ± 3.2 bpm, p < 0.05), and second-minute recovery (from 69.9 ± 5.5 bpm to 91.0 ± 5.8 bpm, p < 0.05) compared values between pre-TS and 45-min after TS and lower second-minute recovery values after 24 h (from 84.6 ± 7.6 bpm to 69.0 ± 1.7 bpm, p < 0.05), whereas strength and multimodal TS demonstrated stable HR dynamics without significant changes. Similar tendencies were observed in DiskRR–JT: endurance TS resulted in a significant increase during the first-minute recovery after 24 h (from 0.21 ± 0.02 to 0.28 ± 0.02, p < 0.05), strength TS showed no significant alterations across time points, and multimodal TS revealed a significant increase at second-minute recovery post-TS (from 0.31 ± 0.01 to 0.35 ± 0.01, p < 0.05), while maximal responses remained largely unchanged. Study II (LONG-TERM adaptation): After six weeks of EP, HR responses during the Ruffier dosed workload remained largely stable across endurance, strength, and multimodal programmes, with no statistically significant changes observed, although endurance EP showed a tendency towards lower maximal HR and slightly improved recovery dynamics, while strength and multimodal EP demonstrated only small or negligible effect sizes. In contrast, DiskRR–JT responses were more sensitive to training adaptations: endurance and strength EP elicited significant increases during the first-minute recovery (from 0.21 ± 0.02 to 0.27 ± 0.01 and from 0.17 ± 0.02 to 0.23 ± 0.02, p < 0.05) with moderate-to-large effect sizes, whereas multimodal EP resulted in significant reductions during recovery phases (1st minute of recovery from 0.36 ± 0.01 to 0.29 ± 0.02; 2nd minute of recovery from 0.31 ± 0.01 to 0.25 ± 0.01, p < 0.05). Conclusions: ECG measurements taken 24 hours after endurance exercise demonstrate more significant residual effects on the cardiovascular system compared to strength or multimodal training sessions. Assessment of the dynamic concatenation (interaction) between ECG parameters proves to be a sensitive method for capturing these residual training effects. Endurance, strength, and multimodal physical activity tasks applied for health promotion induce positive adaptations in both the muscular and cardiovascular systems. In individuals performing multimodal exercises, greater improvements in muscle strength were observed, whereas changes in cardiovascular indicators were not pronounced. Keywords: Cardiovascular system, physical activity, multimodal exercise
Background: The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worldwide highlights the importance of rehabilitation services, as ASD is often associated with gross motor and cognitive impairments. However, it has not yet been investigated whether aerobic exercise can enhance the effects of conventional physiotherapy on balance, aerobic capacity, and cognitive functions. Methods: This study included 30 children aged 8–11 years with diagnosed ASD. Fifteen children were assigned to control group who performed conventional physiotherapy, while the other 15 of the experimental group had combined conventional physiotherapy with an additional aerobic exercise. Balance was assessed using the modified Berg Balance Scale, aerobic capacity with the 6-minute run test (modified Cooper test), and cognitive functions were assessed using RehaCom computer system tasks evaluating topological memory and logical reasoning. Results: The results showed that balance scores and aerobic capacity increased significantly (p < 0.05), while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Regarding cognitive functions, the experimental group showed significantly reduced task solving time and memory acquisition time, as well as a shorter reaction time median (p < 0.05). No significant changes were found in the control group. Conclusions: The integration of aerobic exercise into conventional physiotherapy significantly improves balance, aerobic capacity, and cognition in children with autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the efficacy of a combined therapeutic approach Keywords: Cognition, aerobic endurance, autism spectrum disorder, postural control
Background and Objectives: Obesity is a growing global epidemic associated not only with metabolic and cardiovascular disorders but also with impairments in skeletal muscle and tendon integrity (Abate et al., 2016; Lui & Yung, 2021; Tallis et al., 2018; Tomlinson et al., 2016; Wearing et al., 2006). While the metabolic consequences of obesity are well described (Blüher, 2019), its impact on the structural and mechanical properties of musculotendinous tissues and their functional implications has remained underexplored. The doctoral thesis investigated how obesity alters the morphology, material properties, and function of the muscle–tendon unit (MTU), aiming to clarify the mechanisms that contribute to reduced movement efficiency, tissue fragility, and impaired functional capacity. Methods: The dissertation comprised four interrelated experimental studies using both animal and human models, following a translational and multiscale approach to investigate the mechanical, structural, and functional consequences of obesity on the MTU and respiratory system. Ethical approval was obtained for animal (Ref. No. G2-255) and human studies (Ref. No. 2023-BE10-0001), and all procedures complied with institutional and international ethical standards. In the animal studies, male C57BL/6J mice were exposed to either an obesogenic high-fat diet or a standard control diet to establish a model of diet-induced obesity. Study I characterised the passive mechanical properties of isolated skeletal muscle and adipose tissue in healthy mice using in vitro mechanical testing, providing baseline data on tissue-specific mechanical behaviour. Study II employed the diet-induced obesity mouse model to investigate obesity-related structural and mechanical remodelling of skeletal muscle, tendon, and the myotendinous junction through comprehensive biomechanical testing, histological analysis, and molecular profiling. The human studies extended these mechanistic findings to functional outcomes. Participants were sedentary men aged 30–50 years classified as class I obese (BMI: 30.0–34.9 kg/m²) or normal-weight controls (BMI: 18.5–24.9 kg/m²). Study III examined the effects of obesity on triceps surae MTU morphology, passive mechanical properties, muscle contractile function, and locomotor efficiency during repeated calf raise exercise. Study IV investigated the impact of obesity on respiratory system function, including lung capacity, respiratory muscle strength, breathing patterns, and diaphragm morphology and contractile function. Animal experiments included in vitro mechanical testing of isolated muscles and tendons to assess passive mechanical properties and contraction–relaxation capacity and dynamics, combined with histological evaluation and protein expression analyses to characterise structural remodelling and molecular signalling pathways. Human assessments employed non-invasive techniques, including ultrasonography to evaluate muscle and tendon morphology; dynamometry and surface electromyography to assess MTU mechanical properties and neuromuscular function; spirometry to measure respiratory function; indirect calorimetry to determine metabolic cost; and motion analysis to evaluate locomotor performance and efficiency. Results: Study I demonstrated that skeletal muscle and adipose tissues exhibit distinct passive mechanical properties. Skeletal muscle showed significantly greater modulus and lower hysteresis compared to adipose tissues (p < 0.05), indicating greater resistance to deformation and more efficient elastic energy storage. Study II showed that diet-induced obesity caused significant structural and molecular remodelling of the MTU. Obese mice exhibited increased connective tissue infiltration and elevated expression of TGF-β1 and Periostin (p < 0.05). These alterations were associated with increased tissue fragility and viscosity, with higher modulus in skeletal muscle but lower modulus in tendons (p < 0.05). Obese muscles also demonstrated reduced specific force and slower contraction–relaxation kinetics (p < 0.05). In humans, Study III demonstrated that the triceps surae MTU of individuals with obesity was characterised by increased adipose infiltration, stiffness, and hysteresis (p < 0.05), accompanied by reduced relative muscle strength (p < 0.05) and impaired calf-raise performance and movement efficiency (p < 0.05). Study IV further confirmed the detrimental effects of obesity on respiratory function, showing reduced ventilatory capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and diaphragm function (p < 0.05). These impairments were associated with altered breathing patterns, characterised by increased respiratory rate and reduced tidal volume for a given minute ventilation in individuals with obesity (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Taken together, these findings provide converging evidence that obesity promotes structural and biochemical remodelling of musculotendinous tissues, including adipose infiltration, fibrotic tissue accumulation with increased collagen cross-linking and disrupted extracellular matrix organisation. Functionally, these alterations modify tissue passive mechanical behaviour, impair force production–relaxation dynamics, increase mechanical energy dissipation, and compromise tissue resilience. Consequently, individuals with obesity may experience muscle weakness, increased energy cost of movement, reduced mobility, a less efficient breathing pattern, early fatigue, and MTU fragility, all of which contribute to a decline in physical function and quality of life. The thesis underlined the importance of recognising obesity not only as a metabolic disease but also as a condition of musculoskeletal dysfunction. By elucidating the mechanical, structural, and functional consequences of obesity-induced musculotendinous remodelling, these findings provide a foundation for targeted preventive and rehabilitative strategies aimed at preserving or restoring movement efficiency and musculoskeletal health in individuals with obesity. Keywords: Obesity, skeletal muscle, mechanobiology, muscle physiology, tendon
Background: Sedentary behaviour (SB) in older adults is a growing public health concern, particularly in community and long-term care settings. The Join4Joy project was developed to reduce SB and promote physical activity (PA) among older adults through inclusive, co-created, and group-based interventions. This study aimed to identify which activities within the Join4Joy project were most and least effective, based on PA facilitators’ experiences across two pilot phases. Methods: A qualitative content analysis was conducted using responses from semi-structured questionnaires completed by 12 PA facilitators across two pilots in five European countries. Facilitators reflected on the activities they delivered, indicating which they found most and least well-received by older adults, and explained the underlying reasons. Results: Successful activities were characterised as engaging, socially interactive, adaptable, and enjoyable. Examples included Scape Room, Zumba (with music choice), Adapted Volleyball, Simon Says (simplified), and Adapted Fishing. These activities aligned with Join4Joy’s principles of empowerment, personalisation, and social inclusion. In contrast, activities such as Circuit Training, Guess Who?, Storytelling with Movement, and Complex Obstacle Courses were perceived as less effective due to cognitive overload, lack of clarity, or excessive physical intensity. Environmental limitations were also identified as barriers. Conclusion: Facilitators’ insights highlight the value of flexible, enjoyable, and socially engaging PA activities tailored to the cognitive and physical abilities of older adults. These findings can guide the refinement of future PA programmes aiming to reduce SB and improve the wellbeing of older populations. Keywords: Active ageing, group exercise, facilitator feedback, inclusive intervention
Background: Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) mobilises the strengths of individuals, associations, institutions, and shared spaces to enhance community capacity. Empirical evidence quantifying ABCD maturity remains limited. This study introduces and applies the ABCD Maturity Index to examine baseline patterns, subgroup differences, and changes during participation in Beat the Street, a community-wide, gamified physical activity programme. Methods: A matched-pairs pre–post design was used with adult participants (≥18 years) across six UK locations (March–June 2024). The ABCD Maturity Index measures six domains representing core ABCD foundations: Individuals, Associations, Institutions, Place-based assets, Connections, and Stories. Reliability and construct validity were evaluated using internal consistency and subgroup comparisons. McNemar’s test assessed paired change in dichotomised agreement scores. Results: Internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s α = 0.80–0.83). At baseline (n = 5,734), highest agreement was for Place-based assets (76.3%) and lowest for Stories (29.4%). ABCD maturity was lower among participants from more deprived areas, with disabilities, or long-term conditions. Matched-pair analysis (n = 1,503) showed a mean increase of 5.4 percentage points (p < 0.05), with largest gains in Stories (+7.8 pp) and Institutions (+7.5 pp). Conclusion: The ABCD Maturity Index provides a reliable and valid framework for assessing community capacity and tracking change. Its application revealed both structural inequalities and the potential for inclusive, place-based interventions to strengthen ABCD maturity, particularly among groups starting from lower baselines. Keywords: Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD), community capacity, social capital, place-based intervention
Reactive agility is an important component in many team sports, with human stimulus considered more realistic for performance assessment than video- or light-based stimulus testing. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of a newly adopted netball specific Life-Size Reactive Agility Test (LSRAT), and to determine the correlation between action accuracy and total time. Twenty young female netball players, mean age = 15.1 ± 1.7 years, completed two test conditions using a live tester with netball-specific movements: (a) the tester acted as an opponent by delivering an offensive stimulus for the subject to react to; and (b) the tester acted as a teammate by delivering a ball pass as a stimulus to which the subject had to react by receiving the pass. Results showed very high reliability for total time in both test conditions, with Pearson’s correlation coefficient (Pearson’s r) values of 0.90–0.94, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values of 0.91–0.93. However, action accuracy for both subjects and testers yielded moderate to low Pearson’s r and ICC values across both test conditions. The usefulness of the test in detecting moderate performance changes was evaluated as ‘good’ for the total time in both test conditions. In contrast, subject action accuracy was rated from ‘good’ to ‘marginal’, while tester action accuracy was rated as ‘marginal’ in both test conditions. In conclusion, the LSRAT is a reliable tool for measuring reactive agility in netball players while action accuracy measures may require further refinement for optimal utility in coaching and research. Keywords: Netball, reactive agility, decision making, reactive agility testing, speed
This article-essay will first establish theoretical links with some of the foundations of Rosa’s work, and then present a case study of a physical activity that demonstrates the manifestation of resonance across several dimensions. We start from elements of theoretical concordance with flow theory to discuss the scope and contributions of Rosa’s theory of resonance, and then illustrate these remarks with empirical data on flowart practice, which we think provides knowledge that is both rich and novel in relation to the experience of resonance. Keywords: Flowart, theory of resonance, physical activity
Background: In recent years, plyometric training methods have been widely applied to improve strength, explosive power, and athletic performance. This study aims to present a bibliometric analysis of publication trends related to plyometric training over the past decade. Methods: This study employed a bibliometric approach, analysing publications related to plyometric training in the Scopus database from 2014 to 2024. A total of 1,339 documents were reviewed using VOSviewer and Biblioshiny software. The analysis focused on publication trends, country and institutional productivity, collaboration networks, author influence (H-Index), and keyword co-occurrence to identify dominant themes and research trends. Results: Research findings show a consistent increase in publications related to plyometric training since 2014, peaking at 210 publications in 2024. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Spain were the most productive countries, with Spain receiving the highest number of citations. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research was ranked as the most productive and influential journal in its field. At the institutional level, the Universidad de Los Lagos (Chile) was the most dominant, with Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo being the most influential author, having published 85 works and an H-Index of 30. Keyword analysis revealed that among the most frequently occurring keywords were ‘Human’, ‘Plyometric exercise’, and ‘Physiology’, with recent trends emphasising ‘Velocity’, ‘Training’, and ‘Resistance training’. Conclusion: Research related to plyometric training has shown significant progress over the past decade. The focus, which initially emphasised physiological and anthropometric aspects, has now shifted to practical applications for improving sports performance. Keyword analysis indicates a predominance of male participants, while the involvement of female participants, research on specific sports such as basketball, and aspects of anthropometric and biomechanical components of lower-limb joints remain limited. Future research should focus on reducing gender disparities, expanding sport-based research, and enhancing biomechanical studies to achieve more comprehensive and applicable results. Keywords: Plyometrics, bibliometrics, Scopus database
Background: Children’s emotional wellbeing and physical activity are closely linked to their learning achievements, social integration, and long-term health. Studies show that physical activity improves psychological wellbeing, reduces anxiety, and strengthens self-regulation (Demetriou et al., 2019; Kang et al., 2020). However, the World Health Organization emphasises that 81% of children and adolescents are still physically inactive (WHO, 2021), which increases the risk of obesity and cardiovascular disease (Walker et al., 2021). Schools, as the primary educational environment, play a key role in promoting physical activity and providing psychological support, but few studies have examined how different school environments can affect children’s emotional wellbeing and activity levels. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of gender and school type on the emotional wellbeing and physical activity of primary school students and to analyse the possible relationships between these factors. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in November 2024 in three different types of schools (public rural, public urban, and private). There were 166 primary school students (aged 6–10; 53.6% boys, 46.4% girls) participating in this study. Emotional state was assessed using the Wellbeing, Activity, and Mood (WAM) Scale (Malinauskas, 2003b; Райгородский, 2000), consisting of 30 statements that were adapted by the authors to the age of the children and supplemented with visual images to help understand the questions. Physical activity levels were determined using a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-LT) (Lekečinskaitė, 2009), which was also adapted by the authors for primary school children – the questions were simplified and presented with examples and visual elements that children could understand. Physical activity was classified into three levels: low (<600 MET-min/week), moderate (600–3,000 MET-min/week), and high (>3,000 MET-min/week). The study was anonymous, conducted in accordance with ethical requirements, and data collection was carried out under the same conditions in all schools. Results and Conclusions: The analysis showed that boys’ wellbeing and mood were slightly higher, while girls showed slightly higher physical activity, but these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05), thus gender did not have a significant impact on emotional state or activity. Meanwhile, the type of school had a significant effect: private school students rated their wellbeing and mood lower than rural and urban students (p < 0.001), while rural school students showed significantly higher physical activity than urban students (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed strong links between wellbeing, mood, and subjective activity (r = 0.70, p < 0.001), but objectively measured physical activity (IPAQ-LT) had no significant link to emotional state. This suggests that the school environment has a greater influence on children’s wellbeing than gender, and that subjective emotional factors are more closely related to wellbeing than objective activity levels. Keywords: School-age children, physical activity, psychological wellbeing
Background: Motivation is a key psychological factor that encourages adolescents to set goals, overcome challenges, and engage in regular physical activity. It plays a crucial role in shaping athletes’ commitment, effort, and overall development (O’Neil & Hodge, 2019). Research shows that motivational climate focused on effort, cooperation, and personal improvement promotes the satisfaction of psychological needs and positive behaviour (Cid et al., 2019; Manninen & Campbell, 2022). Self-Determination Theory distinguishes between intrinsic motivation, which is related to curiosity, mastery, and enjoyment, and extrinsic motivation, which is shaped by rewards, social pressure, or external recognition (Pelletier et al., 1995; Ryan & Deci, 2000). Research also shows that motivation is influenced by individual and social factors: older adolescents may rely more on extrinsic motives (Orbach et al., 2021), girls tend to report stronger intrinsic motivations than boys (Ahmed et al., 2020), and greater athletic achievement is associated with greater intrinsic motivation (Moradi et al., 2020). This study aimed to examine motivational characteristics of adolescents participating in non-formal sport education and their associations with age, sporting experience, and sports achievements. Material and Methods: The study was conducted using a quantitative design to test hypotheses about sport motivation. Data were collected using a validated Sport Motivation Scale (Grajauskas, 2008; Pelletier et al., 1995), consisting of 28 statements divided into seven subscales. The study involved 112 adolescents from three sport centres (52% boys, 48% girls) aged 16–20. The data were analysed using SPSS software applying nonparametric methods (Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H) and Spearman’s correlation analysis, as the variables did not meet the assumptions of normality. Results and Conclusions: It was found that there were no significant differences between boys and girls in terms of intrinsic motivation scales (p > 0.05), but girls had higher scores for identification and introjected regulation and greater amotivation (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between age groups (16–17 vs. 18–20) (p > 0.05), but a trend was observed: younger adolescents were more characterised by intrinsic motivation, while older adolescents were more characterised by extrinsic motivation. No statistically significant differences were found in terms of sporting experience and achievements, but athletes with 6–8 years of experience and higher achievements showed higher scores for both internal and external motivation. Correlation analysis revealed a weak positive relationship between athletic experience and intrinsic motivation to ‘learn’ (r = 0.204; p < 0.05) and strong correlations between internal and external motivation components and amotivation, suggesting that external factors may encourage initial participation but not long-term engagement. Practitioners should strengthen autonomy, competence, and satisfying environment, especially for older and less experienced individuals. Keywords: Non-formal education, adolescents, motivation, sport participation
This study aims to examine high school students’ attitudes towards physical activity-based games in line with various variables. Quantitative research method was adopted and survey model was used. While the population of the study includes all high schools in Kütahya, the sample group consists of students studying at Tavşanlı Atatürk Anatolian High School. Using convenience sampling method, 272 students were reached. The Playfulness Scale was used as a measurement tool to evaluate the participants’ attitudes towards games involving physical activity. In the statistical analysis process, independent sample t test was used to examine the differences between two independent groups, and one-way analysis of variance was used in multiple group comparisons. The results of the analyses revealed that the attitudes of the participants towards games involving physical activity showed statistically significant differences in terms of recreational sport participation status, licensed sport history, and age variables. However, no significant difference was found in terms of gender variable. In conclusion, the findings of the study reveal that attitudes towards games involving physical activity may vary in line with individual differences. The results obtained can be compared with related literature and more comprehensive evaluations can be made and be a guide for future studies. Keywords: cognition, engagement, enjoyment, lifestyle, socialisation
