Football performance is dependent upon quick decision making, perceptual abilities, and cognition. In many youth football development programs, however, coaches fail to fully address the cognitive demands placed on players during games. This article uses principles of cognitive load theory, motor learning, and sport psychology to discuss how cognitive load affects decision-making in youth players. Different coaching practices either increase or decrease cognitive load, depending on how a coach structure activities. Tips on how coaches can achieve a desirable cognitive load are presented. Youth football coaches should strive to find the balance that allows players to achieve their maximum learning potential without overloading their working memory. Ideal cognitive load promotes quicker and smarter decision making on the field, increased confidence, and long-term player development. The purpose of this article is to explore how Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) can be applied to youth soccer instruction with the goal of expediting decision-making skills and producing more effective long-term athlete development. A conceptual/integrative review design was utilized and informed by cognitive load theory, ecological dynamics, and motor learning and skill acquisition literature. This analysis discussed how various task constraints impact working memory capacity, perception–action coupling, and schema development in youth players. However, small-sided games and constraint-led practices that are appropriately challenging allow for germane cognitive processing and the development of flexible decision-making abilities. Methodically manipulating space, numbers, rules, and the coach’s teaching behavior favors anticipation and scanning behaviors while developing efficient first-touches and reducing anxiety during game-play.
This study examined the performance determinants of success in elite women’s international football by comparing key performance indicators from the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cups. Using a quantitative observational design, match data were obtained from Hudl Wyscout and analysed across tournaments, group vs. knockout stages, and between editions. KPIs were organised within a phase-of-play framework. Non-parametric Mann–Whitney U tests identified differences between winning and losing teams. Results showed successful teams consistently outperformed unsuccessful teams across multiple phases. In possession, winning teams demonstrated greater attacking output, passing accuracy, and territorial control. Defensive transition success was associated with higher pressing intensity and more favourable loss-location profiles. Attacking transition was characterised by more frequent ball recoveries in advanced areas. Out of possession, losing teams performed more reactive defensive actions, while winning teams maintained greater defensive stability. Set-piece efficiency also differentiated success. Differences were larger in group-stage matches, whereas knockout matches reflected greater reliance on efficiency and tactical discipline. Comparative analysis indicated a shift from 2019 to 2023 towards more controlled possession and improved defensive efficiency. Overall, success in elite women’s football is driven by execution quality, spatial control, and phase-specific efficiency rather than action volume alone.
To date, research into CONCACAF football competitions is limited. This study investigates the technical and tactical key performance indicators (KPIs) that differentiate winning and losing teams in the CONCACAF Men’s Gold Cup from 2017 to 2025. Using a quantitative, observational design and Hudl Wyscout event data, matches were analysed across phases of play, including in possession, defensive and attacking transitions, out-of-possession, and set pieces. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare performances across the full dataset and between group and knockout stages. Results demonstrate that winning teams consistently outperform losing teams across multiple KPIs, including goals, expected goals (xG), shot quality, penalty-area entries, and passing efficiency. Possession quality, rather than volume, emerged as a critical determinant of success, with effective progression into advanced areas strongly associated with positive outcomes. Winning teams also exhibited greater pressing intensity, more high recoveries, and more effective counter-attacks, while set-piece efficiency further distinguished success. Importantly, winning teams created performance gaps across phases and styles of play, rather than relying on a single playing style. As tournaments progressed into knockout stages, performance differences narrowed, with outcomes increasingly determined by efficiency and execution in decisive moments. These findings highlight the importance of integrated, multi-phase tactical approaches in CONCACAF contexts and provide applied insights for coaches, analysts, and practitioners seeking to optimise tactical preparation, match strategy, and performance evaluation in elite international tournament football.
In people living with HIV (PLHIV), CD4 T-cell count is a standard indicator of immune status; its relationship with physical performance measures remains less defined. These measures may capture early neuromuscular changes associated with immune status in PLHIV. To evaluate the relationship between immune function, as measured by CD4 T-cell count, and physical performance indicators, including balance and muscular strength, in PLHIV, and to examine associations among balance, muscular strength, and endurance. This retrospective observational study analyzed a convenience sample of 10 participants from a specialized HIV clinic. Participants were categorized into Normal (≥500 cells/μL) and Immunocompromised (<500 cells/μL) groups. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess relationships between balance and strength measures. Analyses were carried out using Python and were exploratory. Participants with normal immune status demonstrated better postural stability than the immunocompromised group (left: 25.56 vs 18.00 seconds; right: 26.44 vs 20.00 seconds). Positive correlations were identified between balance and strength measures (left: heel raises r = 0.95, push-ups r = 0.94; right: heel raises r = 0.90, push-ups r = 0.89). Higher CD4 T-cell counts were associated with improved postural stability and greater muscular endurance. Single-leg balance and push-ups may serve as clinically accessible measures linked with immune status in PLHIV.
Employment in collegiate athletics often involves a fast-paced, high-pressure, stressful environment for employees that may lead to the development of burnout. This study examined the perceived stress and burnout of support staff members (e.g., athletic training, marketing). Surveys were delivered to 15,513 current support staff members via email in August 2024 and March 2025. A total of 314 (2.02%) completed both surveys (35.63 ± 9.77 years; 49.5% female). Participants reported moderate perceived stress (PSS) (T1: 15.97 ± 6.39; T2: 16.40 ± 6.74), personal burnout (PB) (T1: 48.98 ± 18.86; T2: 50.03 ± 18.93), work-related burnout (WR) (T1: 48.78 ± 17.39; T2: 50.52 ± 17.15), and low client-related burnout (CR) (T1: 31.99 ± 19.30; T2: 36.01 ± 20.78). PSS was positively correlated with all three subscales of burnout at both time points. WR and CR were significantly greater in March. PSS and burnout did not differ by institution type (Power Four, Mid-major) or football responsibilities. However, individuals consistently interacting with student athletes reported greater PB (p=0.031). Age and years of experience were both positively correlated with changes in PSS and WR between time points. This study provided insight into the stress and burnout of all athletic department support staff, with previous work focused on athletic trainers alone. Administrators can utilize this information to understand the current well-being of their employees. By providing early intervention through resources (e.g., employee assistance programs) and departmental changes (e.g., staffing, work hours), administrators can aim to decrease the risk of burnout and related consequences.
The masters athlete is typically defined as older than 35 years who either trains for or takes part in athletic competitions often specifically designed for older participants. Masters athletes provide a unique research cohort to understand the role of regular vigorous exercise in optimizing physical potential and health with advancing age. Olympic weightlifting is a sport that demands specific physical attributes and rigorous training to excel. Anthropomorphic and competition data were collected for male and female athletes competing at the 2022 World Master Weightlifting Championships. Of the 820 eligible athletes, 172 from 17 countries participated in the physical assessment of the study. Female participants were slightly taller when compared to the general public and males shorter. Participants, both female and male, presented lower body mass index scores and waist circumference measures. Understanding the physical profiles of Masters athletes provides valuable insights for considering the impact of Olympic weightlifting. Masters Olympic weightlifters present physical profiles of aging with a functional capacity greater than that of an age-matched general population.
Knee injuries caused by sporting activities in various types of sports could be diverse mainly due to differences in the physical nature of the sport, participants’ profiles, and the intensity of training involved. This research sought to explore patterns in the prevalence of five common knee injuries: meniscal tears, acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, patellar instability, tendinopathy, and patellofemoral syndrome in three strike-related sports. A cross-sectional study involving 275 athletes participating in sports such as athletics, basketball, boxing, karate, soccer, jiu-jitsu, judo, kickboxing, kung fu, Greco-Roman wrestling, and volleyball was conducted. Data were obtained from medical histories and standardized self-administered questionnaires, with injury prevalences classified accordingly. Injury patterns and demographic variables, including age and sex, were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics. The most common locations of ACL injury were found to be in football and judo, while laceration/testing mobility of the patellar tendons and patellofemoral syndrome were more prevalent in kickboxing and Greco-Roman wrestling. The study also revealed age differences across sports, with the youngest injured athletes participating in Greco-Roman wrestling. The results of this study are valuable for establishing sport-specific patterns of knee injury and highlight the necessity of targeted prevention and recovery strategies. Successful interventional programs should consider both individual and demographic attributes of athletes and the biomechanical demands of their respective sports.
Large and loud crowds add to the intensity of a sporting event and impact player performance. A rowdy crowd can cause players and coaches, particularly those from the visiting team, to make mistakes or become frustrated, leading to more flagrant and technical fouls in basketball games. This article examines how crowd size, along with other factors that influence the noise level in the arena, correlates with flagrant and technical fouls in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). This article uses a fixed effects model with crowd size, as measured by the percentage of the arena that is full, as the variable of interest and fouls as the outcome variable. The model controls for the size of the arena and other game-specific characteristics. The results indicate that crowd size, and therefore crowd noise, is positively associated with flagrant fouls and technical fouls committed by coaches. This article also investigates how larger and louder crowds affect the home and away teams differently. The findings provide some evidence of a home court advantage in terms of technical fouls committed by coaches. This article contributes to the existing literature on how crowds can contribute to home court advantage but provides additional context by looking at fouls as an outcome variable.
This study examines how demographic and performance-related factors influence perceived leadership traits among Olympians, contributing to an understanding of leadership identity shaped by elite sport experience. Responses from 242 Olympians representing 67 countries and 44 Olympic sports were analyzed using the Leadership Trait Questionnaire (LTQ) to assess self-reported leadership characteristics. The study focused on gender, age, highest Olympic placement, and number of Olympic participations. Results show that all four variables significantly affect leadership self-perception, with gender and achievement level showing particularly notable differences. These findings suggest that leadership development in elite athletes is influenced not only by competitive success but also by broader experiential and demographic factors. The study offers a cross-national perspective on athlete leadership, revealing diverse leadership profiles within the Olympic community. Practical implications include the integration of leadership training into athlete development and career transition programs, emphasizing the transferable value of Olympic experience beyond sport. By identifying key influences on leadership self-perception, the research supports a more holistic approach to athlete identity and post-sport career readiness. The study provides a foundation for future research on leadership development in sport and its relevance to broader professional contexts.
Handball is a globally popular sport that requires frequent jumping, landing, and rapid directional changes, often resulting in pain or physical discomfort among players. This study observed 13 national-level male handball players during a training camp to assess the impact of body part pain on performance. Pain was monitored over four consecutive days during the second daily practice session. A Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate both pain in specific body parts and self-rated performance aspects such as satisfaction and concentration. Linear mixed modeling was applied to analyze the relationship between pain and performance, accounting for daily individual variation. The results revealed that several players reported high VAS pain scores in the dominant shoulder and elbow, while one athlete reported a maximum score of 10 in the dominant knee. Pain in the ankle joints was also notably high. This study highlights the importance of monitoring physical discomfort during training, as pain in key joints may negatively affect both perceived and actual handball performance.
This study aims to identify significant physical tests for elite male speed climbers. By analyzing existing research and testing methods, we develop a reliable test battery to assess and monitor physical preparedness in competitive speed climbing. The study included 10 elite Russian national team climbers and a comparative group of 24 lower-level athletes. The test battery covered power, speed, coordination, and flexibility. Tests included the countermovement jump (JHT), Laffaye upper limb test, tapping test, and forward bend test. Statistical analysis using Pearson’s correlation assessed the significance of each test in relation to climbing performance. Four key tests demonstrated strong correlations with speed climbing performance: JHT (r=0.933, p=0.012), Laffaye test (r=0.897, p=0.007), tapping test (r=0.821, p=0.009), and forward bend (r=0.967, p=0.001). These tests effectively differentiate elite climbers and provide a standardized method for assessing physical readiness. The identified tests can be used to monitor and enhance training programs for speed climbers. Express testing allows for rapid assessment, benefiting both elite and developing athletes. Coaches and athletes can use these tests to track performance, tailor training strategies, and identify talent. The results support structured physical preparation in speed climbing.
HIV may precipitate a myriad of health-related complications, potentially culminating in disabilities that detrimentally affect the quality of life. Certain conditions, such as hyperlipidemia (LP), which are exacerbated by HIV, can pose additional difficulties for this particular demographic. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of LP on the cardio-motor profile of Hispanic Latinos living with HIV. The methodology of this study consisted of a submaximal cardiovascular assessment (Ross Test) to collect relevant cardio-motor data for this research. These data were sourced from the records of individuals registered at La Perla de Gran Precio Community Centre for HIV in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The motor profile captured included treadmill speed and incline. Cardiovascular parameters recorded were blood pressure and heart rate at the cessation of the Ross Test. A total of 291 participants were classified into 229 in the non-LP group and 62 in the LP group. The findings of this study showed similar average CD4 counts. An ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in the LP group, including decreased cardio time and treadmill incline compared to their counterparts. Hispanic Latinos living with HIV and LP exhibit notable deficits in motor gait. Gait parameters are particularly compromised in individuals affected by both conditions. The practical implication is to alert healthcare providers to integrate the specific cardio-motor assessments discussed in this study to address the factors influencing gait, which in turn may impact the quality of life of those with HIV.
Active participation of students with disability in adapted sport is dependent on several organizational predators. The purpose of this study is to examine how organizational predators independently and jointly contribute to disability sport participation among secondary school students with special needs in Ibadan, Nigeria. The methodology featured Chain-Referral (snowball) to identify stakeholders, coaches, organizers and teachers involved in organizing disability sport for students with disability and probability sampling technique to choose the schools to be visited. The findings revealed that Strategic planning (ß=0.289, t=2.816, p=0.008), logistics (ß=0.612, t=7.103, p=0.000), interest of coaches (ß=0.536, t=7.795, p=0.000) and knowledge of organizing personnel (ß=0.500, t=7.836, p=0.000) were independently tested significant on disability sport participation while network capacity (ß=0.171, t=1.772, p=0.085), funding sources (ß=0.082, t=1.360, p=0.182) and sport infrastructure (ß=0.111, t=1.948, p=0.059) were not independently tested significant on disability sport participation. Also, there is a composite joint contribution of strategic planning, network capacity, infrastructure, funding, logistics, interest of coaches, and knowledge of organizing personnel on disability sports participation among secondary school students with special needs in Ibadan, Nigeria (F(7,39)=100.210, p=0.00). The result also generated a coefficient multiple regression of R=0.977 and R2 =0.955; implying that about 95.5% of variance was accounted for by the independent variable. Strategic planning, logistics, interest of coaches, and knowledge of organizing personnel individually and collectively showed a positive contribution to disability sport participation, hence, there is a need to consider them on the subject of disability sport participation in schools of individuals with special needs in Ibadan, Nigeria.
As performance analysis (PA) in sport and soccer has developed, numerous methods of analysis are available to provide objective video and data insights on performances. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss PA in sport and soccer, critically appraise past and present PA techniques and preview the future of PA to enhance knowledge and inform PA practices. The methodology featured a literature review of key research papers within the areas of manual and computerised notational analysis, manual and computerised time motion analysis, wearable technology, stadium infrastructure, artificial intelligence and ethical considerations of PA. The findings of this review determined there are varied methods of PA available to practitioners to conduct technical, tactical and physical analysis within sport and soccer. Each technique features varied workflows and budget requirements which influence process advantages, disadvantages and accessibility. The evaluation of methods allowed the review to determine a decision-making matrix that can be used by practitioners to identify the most applicable PA procedures related to their resources, infrastructure and analytical aims. Alongside the decision-making matrix, the review also found that there are key ethical considerations regarding the delivery of PA insights. Given the wide array of PA tools available, and artificial intelligence influences likely to increase in the future, practitioners need to carefully consider what analysis is conducted, when insights are delivered and how information is provided to ensure effective, ethical practices.
This study delves into the intricate landscape of China's national fitness policy, emphasizing the pivotal role of policy tools in crafting and executing effective strategies. Through a meticulous examination of 13 policy texts, significant disparities in tool utilization emerge, revealing issues such as imbalances and varying degrees of emphasis on content system construction. Leveraging Rothwell and Zegveld's classification method, the study categorizes national fitness policy tools into supply, demand, and environment types, elucidating their unique impacts and roles. It advocates for a strategic selection and utilization of policy tools to rectify existing imbalances and bolster effectiveness. The study underscores the importance of a balanced approach between supply and demand-oriented tools, advocating for transparency, flexibility, and accountability in policy adjustments. Additionally, it highlights the significance of maintaining stable utilization of supply-oriented tools and strengthening efforts in talent development and social guidance teams to sustain momentum. Overall, the study advocates for a holistic and dynamic approach to policy tool selection and utilization, ensuring alignment with overarching goals and fostering a healthier, more active society. By offering nuanced insights and pragmatic recommendations, it aims to catalyze the realization of a stronger and healthier nation through the implementation of effective national fitness policies, thereby uplifting the well-being of its citizens and nurturing a vibrant and resilient society.
Energy drinks (Edrinks) have a plethora of ingredients for the same objective, a burst of energy and improving mood among others. However, there are various Edrink brands with diverse ingredients and slightly different purposes, such as the C4 drink which is a pre-workout. This ingredient variation can provoke different neuromuscular balance and gait adaptations. Recent studies suggest that some ingredients in Edrinks can aid in muscle fatigue in lower limb musculature. To investigate the lower limb neuromuscular modification after edink (C4) consumption. Ten participants (1 male and 9 females) partaken in the study (age of 23.4 (+/- 2.95). Neuromuscular activation of leg musculature was measured during a single-legged balance test on a firm and foam surface, pre and post edrink. Balance tests were designed to engage diverse areas of the balance systems (visual, proprioceptive and vestibular) while studying the adaptations in lower limb muscles such as tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius. The main outcome of this study showed a trend towards greater onset, faster TP, and slower decay for leg muscles after edrink consumption. It seems C4 beverage provokes a faster and prolonged recruitment of the leg muscles. Future studies should look into the postural adaptations after the said drink.
人口老龄化背景下老年人健康问题是亟待解决的重要问题,健康促进的社会生态学理论认为城市社区建成环境是影响老年人健康的重要因素.本研究采用2017-2018年于南京市调研数据,探讨城市社区建成环境、体力活动与老年人健康的关系.研究发现:①从整体上看,社区建成环境对老年人健康不仅产生直接影响,还通过体力活动产生间接影响.②不同类型社区的建成环境对老年群体健康的影响路径存在差异,边缘、单位、综合社区通过体力活动间接影响老年健康,而传统社区会产生直接影响.③影响因子重要程度大小排序:边缘社区为人均道路总长度、交通站点数、街道连通性、至商业场所距离;传统社区土地混合使用、至交通站点距离、建筑密度、体育设施数量;单位社区至休闲娱乐场所距离、人均道路总长度、体育设施种类、至商业场所距离;综合社区人均道路总长度、至交通站点距离、交通站点数、至休闲娱乐场所距离和体育设施数量.
通过文献资料、历史钩沉、文化叙事、辩证分析等方法,借助考古发现和文献资料的相互印证,探索体育文明的起源、演化和文化哲理,并采取举隅"二重证据法"以勾勒黄河流域早期体育文明原貌.研究认为:黄河流域体育文明生成受"绝地天通"巫觋改革的影响,启伐有扈、钧台之享可以推断军事、宗教祭祀仪式构成黄河流域体育文明起源的两大学说;在自然宗教、多神教、宗法礼仪变迁中孕育夏商周时期黄河流域体育文明,封禅畤祭宗教、儒道修身养生宗教则是主导秦汉时期体育文明延续的文化空间;夏商周体育文明表现为意识主导下的"祛身化",秦汉体育养生文明实践了身体本位回归;黄河流域巫觋演变为天神、地祇、人祖概念实践着巫觋文化向体育文明的转向,"祀"与"戎"、"雅"与"俗"是重武习射、图腾崇拜,以及宗教祭祀仪式"退场"后多元体育文明诞生的文化逻辑.
研究运用历史分析的方法,以史料为基础探讨了中华全国体育协进会成立的过程.在中华全国体育协进会成立前,国家体育组织机构曾经历了全国学界运动会、远东体育委员会、中华业余运动联合会等组织形式,基督教青年会在这些组织中居于领导地位.伴随当时国内体育事业的发展以及对外体育交流的需要,同时随着国人体育主权意识的觉醒,成立完全由国人自主的国家体育组织成为当时中国体育发展的必然要求.最终,在中华体育协会的推动以及国内体育界人士的团结合作下,具有广泛社会代表性、自主性、合法性的全国性体育社会团体——中华全国体育协进会,于1924年7月5日在南京东南大学化学教室内正式成立.中华全国体育协进会的成立,是近代中国体育发展史上的重要事件,标志着中国体育的发展进入了一个具有自主性的崭新阶段.
《义务教育体育与健康课程标准(2022年版)》明确提出开展跨学科主题学习活动,体育与健康课程跨学科主题学习是推动义务教育阶段体育教育变革和体育课程改革的重要途径.相较于其他体育课程内容,体育与健康课程跨学科主题学习更具思维拓展高阶性、开展方式多样性、知识关联整合性以及目标指向多维性,更易于实现体育课程的综合化和实践化.研究以活动理论为分析框架,探讨了体育与健康课程跨学科主题学习活动模型构成要素及其关系,并提出基于活动理论的体育与健康课程跨学科主题学习活动设计路径:①主题整合:以共同体思想为导向,明确主题分析目标;②主干凝练:以活动客体为背景,创设情境设计问题;③主体协作:以师生活动为关键,创新课内课外双轨任务体系;④主旨反馈:以规则分工为基底,量化效果评价反思.最后,选取具体案例应用分析,为一线体育教师实施跨学科主题学习提供切实指引.
