Background: Age-related declines in respiratory muscle strength and ventilatory efficiency can impair functional capacity and metabolic health in older adults. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proposed as a practical intervention to counteract these changes, yet its systemic effects remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of short-term IMT on functional capacity, diaphragm thickness, and liver tissue characteristics in healthy elderly men. Methods: Thirty community-dwelling men aged 60-80 years were randomly assigned to an IMT or control group. The IMT group performed four weeks of breathing exercises using a POWERbreathe® device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure, with a weekly 10% increase in pressure. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the six-minute walk test (6MWT), diaphragm thickness and liver density via computed tomography, and quality of life (QoL; SF-12). Results: Four weeks of inspiratory muscle training significantly improved diaphragm thickness (11.7%), fatty liver density (FLD) (+16.7%), and six-minute walk performance (+5.3%), with large time × group effects favoring the IMT group. While the physical quality of life showed modest, comparable improvements, mental health outcomes demonstrated a moderate, time-dependent improvement without a significant group-by-time interaction. Conclusions: Short-term IMT improved diaphragmatic function and functional capacity in older men and was associated with favorable changes in a liver-related biomarker; however, given that only a single liver-related metric was assessed, these findings should not be interpreted as evidence of overall improvements in liver health.

Inspiratory muscle warm-up (IWU) has been hypothesized to enhance athletic performance by pre-activating respiratory muscles; however, evidence in professional natural male bodybuilders is scarce. The present study investigated the acute effects of IWU on One-Repetition maximum (1RM) bench press performance and pulmonary function. The present randomized controlled experimental study comprised 20 male athletes with an average training experience of 3.21 ± 1.44 years, who trained for more than 5 h per week and had participated in national or international competitions. At the commencement of the study, all participants underwent a series of pulmonary function tests (PFTs), measurements of maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP), and a 1RM test. Following the initial assessments, which were conducted seventy-two hours prior, participants were randomly assigned to either the IWU group (n = 10) or the control (CON) group (n = 10). While the IWU group performed both inspiratory muscle warm-up and standard exercise warm-up, the CON group performed only the standard warm-up. Subsequent to the execution of the warm-up protocols, both groups were subjected to re-evaluation through the means of the 1RM test and respiratory parameter measurements. The IWU group demonstrated a 5.96

Sexual activity is a common yet poorly understood aspect of athletes’ lives, frequently surrounded by cultural beliefs and traditional practices that lack consistent scientific support. Despite widespread assumptions that sexual activity impairs athletic performance or recovery, empirical evidence remains fragmented and often contradictory. This narrative review synthesizes current literature examining the physiological, psychological, and contextual effects of sexual activity on athletic performance and post-exercise recovery. Mechanistic pathways involving hormonal fluctuations, autonomic nervous system regulation, cardiovascular and neuromuscular responses, sleep quality, and psychological well-being are examined to clarify biologically plausible effects. Evidence indicates that sexual activity typically elicits mild physiological responses comparable to light physical exertion and does not meaningfully deplete energy stores or impair strength, endurance, power, or coordination when occurring several hours or more before competition. Acute hormonal changes, including transient variations in testosterone, cortisol, prolactin, and oxytocin, appear short-lived and unlikely to exert direct negative effects on performance. Psychological outcomes, such as reduced anxiety, improved mood, emotional bonding, and stress regulation, may support readiness and recovery in some athletes, while negative effects are more often linked to sleep disruption, interpersonal stress, or maladaptive timing rather than sexual activity itself. The review highlights that individual variability, belief systems, relationship context, sport-specific demands, and sleep timing play a larger role than physiology alone in shaping outcomes. A critical limitation of the current evidence base is the predominant focus on male athletes, which constrains sex-specific conclusions and clinical guidance. Current evidence does not support universal sexual abstinence before competition, though personalized strategies may be appropriate based on individual responses and preferences. Overall, sexual activity appears largely neutral with respect to athletic performance and may offer recovery-related benefits when appropriately timed and contextualized. Future research should prioritize controlled designs, sex-balanced samples, sport-specific analyses, and objective recovery markers to inform individualized, evidence-based recommendations for athletes and practitioners.

IntroductionSedentary lifestyles threaten physical and psychological well-being. Nature-integrated green sports environments and digitally supported smart sports environments may promote physical activity and sustainable health. This study examined the direct and indirect associations among green facility exposure/use, smart facility/technology interaction, physical activity, sport motivation, perceived stress, psychological resilience, and quality of life.MethodsA quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design was used with 300 adults living in Türkiye (168 women and 132 men; mean age = 33.4 years, SD = 9.7). Data were collected online between 22 May and 14 November 2025 and analyzed using a hybrid structural equation model combining observed composite indices and latent psychometric constructs.ResultsThe model showed acceptable fit (χ2/df = 2.10, CFI = 0.96, TLI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.051, SRMR = 0.044). Physical activity was positively associated with sport motivation (β = 0.48, p < 0.001), which was positively associated with psychological resilience (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) and quality of life (β = 0.27, p < 0.001). Green facility exposure/use (β = 0.18, p < 0.05) and smart facility/technology interaction (β = 0.12, p < 0.05) were positively associated with physical activity. Perceived stress was negatively associated with psychological resilience (β = −0.33, p < 0.01) and quality of life (β = −0.29, p < 0.01). Indirect associations linked physical activity with quality of life through sport motivation and psychological resilience.DiscussionGreen and smart exercise contexts may support physical activity and related motivational and psychological processes. Because the study was cross-sectional, the findings should be interpreted as associations rather than causal effects. Nature-based and technology-supported opportunities may inform sports-environment planning and public-health strategies.

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is increasingly used in sports science as a non-invasive marker of autonomic nervous system function and training adaptation. In soccer, where players engage in mixed high-intensity efforts, HRV may provide insight into both aerobic and anaerobic capacities. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between resting HRV and key physiological performance parameters in professional soccer players. Methods: Seventeen professional male soccer players (age: 24.554.71 years) from the Turkish second league participated. HRV data were collected using the Omegawave system alongside measures of aerobic and anaerobic power, sprinting, jumping, reaction time, lactate levels, and GPS-based match performance. Assessments were conducted over four visits, and standard time- and frequency-domain HRV indices were analyzed. Results: Velocity at anaerobic threshold was positively correlated with several time-domain and frequency-domain HRV parameters, and negatively with LF:HF and LFnu ratios. VO2max was positively associated with HFnu and negatively with LF-related parameters. GPS-derived performance metrics and lactate tolerance were also linked to HRV indicators, suggesting vagal activity reflects multiple aspects of performance. Conclusions: Resting HRV parameters, particularly those reflecting parasympathetic activity, are associated with both aerobic and anaerobic performance indicators in professional soccer players. Suggesting that HRV monitoring can serve as a practical, non-invasive tool for tracking aerobic power and for planning and adjusting daily training loads.

Background: Shoulder joint mobility and rotational strength of the shoulder muscles are important factors in badminton performance. Aims: To determine the correlations of shoulder range of motion (ROM) and isokinetic rotational peak torque with shuttlecock velocity during the forehand jump smash in trained male badminton players. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 30 trained male badminton players (age= 28.4 ± 3.3 years; body mass= 83.2 ± 7.8 kg; height= 192.5 ± 4.2 cm). Isokinetic dynamometry was used to assess internal-rotation (IR) and external-rotation (ER) shoulder peak torque during concentric (IRcon and ERcon) and eccentric (IRecc and ERecc) contractions. Peak shuttlecock velocity during the forehand jump smash was recorded using a radar gun. Results: Internal and external shoulder ROM were 55.58 ± 7.10° and 104.00 ± 8.11°, respectively. ERecc, ERcon, IRecc, and IRcon peak torque values were 38.43 ± 7.63 Nm, 30.91 ± 8.22 Nm, 79.61 ± 7.05 Nm, and 49.01 ± 6.10 Nm, respectively. Mean shuttlecock velocity was 273.0 ± 3.5 km/h. In the unadjusted analysis, IRcon peak torque was positively correlated with shuttlecock velocity (r = 0.380, 95% CI [0.023, 0.651], p = 0.038). However, this association did not remain significant after Bonferroni correction for eight correlation tests (adjusted α = 0.00625; adjusted p = 0.304), and none of the examined correlations was significant after correction for multiple comparisons. Conclusion: After correction for multiple comparisons, no statistically significant associations were detected between shuttlecock velocity and shoulder ROM or isokinetic rotational peak torque in the present sample. Although IRcon peak torque showed a nominal positive association with shuttlecock velocity in the unadjusted analysis, this finding did not remain significant after Bonferroni correction. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships.

BackgroundRegular training is associated with better postural alignment, decreased risk of musculoskeletal problems, and improved overall physical function. The aim of this study was to examine the changes in the spinal postures of individuals who regularly engage in fitness and bodybuilding training.MethodsA total of 252 male individuals between the ages of 20–28 (mean age: 23.71 ± 1.81 years), who either engage in fitness and bodybuilding training (athletes) (n = 125; age 23.61 ± 1.78 years; sports age 5 ± 0.89 years) and those who do not engage in sports (sedentary) (n = 127; age 23.82 ± 1.83 years) participated in the study. A spinal Mouse device was used in the measurements. In spine measurement, all spinal protrusions from C7 to S1 were evaluated. T-test and correlation tests were used to analyze the data.ResultsA statistically significant difference was detected between the athlete and sedentary groups regarding the degrees of thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and sacral kyphosis (p < 0.05). However, no difference was observed in the upright posture (p > 0.05).ConclusionIt was found that there were significant differences in some spinal curves of fitness and bodybuilding trainees compared to sedentary, but the values were within physiological limits and did not indicate negative effects. The study may provide new insights into the effects of fitness and bodybuilding training on spine health, and individuals can incorporate training with proper form and technique into their lifestyle for spinal health.

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of exercise on psychological disorders in patients receiving childhood cancer treatment. Methods: The universe of the study consisted of cancer patients between the ages of 9-17 who were treated in the Hematology-Oncology units of Erciyes University. For creating a sample group, children with cancer were informed about the content of the study. 40 children with cancer agreed to participate in the study voluntarily. The volunteers were divided into two groups, control and experimental, each consisting of 20 people. As pre test, while participants were administered a socio-demographic information form, Kovacs Depression, Beck Anxiety and child form of the pediatric cancer quality of life scale. Volunteers in the experimental group engaged in aerobic and strength ex-ercises for an eight-week period. The study was completed with 8 volunteers in the control group and 14 volunteers in the experimental group due to various factors such as voluntary withdrawal, disease progression, and mortality. After this period, the volunteers were asked to apply the same scales once more as post test. The SPSS 22.00 statistical analysis program was performed. The Independent Samples t-Test was em-ployed to compare the pre-test and post-test findings of the control and experimental groups, while the Paired Samples t-Test was used for within-group evaluations. Re-sults: In intragroup comparisons, significant differences were observed in favor of the post-test scores within the experimental group for both the anxiety scale and the qual-ity of life children's form. In intergroup comparisons, significant differences were de-tected in favor of the experimental group regarding the post-test scores of depression and anxiety scales. Conclusion: It is postulated that this outcome stems from the posi-tive effects of sports activities in helping children undergoing cancer treatment to dis-tance themselves from their psychological adversities.

Beynin Embriyolojik Gelişimi ve Beynin Temel Histolojisi Dilek SAĞIR Beynin Temel Anatomisi İbrahim KÜRTÜL Hatice Kübra KOÇ TOPCUOĞLU Beynin Temel Fizyolojisi Ayhan ÇETİNKAYA Sinem KARA Beynin Enerji Metabolizması Gülsen YILMAZ Sinir Sisteminin Kimyasal Habercileri: Nörotransmitterler Gülüzar ÖZBOLAT Sinir Sisteminin Temelleri Murat TERZİ Bellek ve Gelişimi Habibe DİLSİZ Ayşenur AYDIN Temel Duyguların Gelişimi ve Beyindeki Karşılıkları Sezen NACAK Gülsüm AKDENİZ Yedi Temel Duyunun Gelişimi, Duyusal Bütünleme ve Çocuk Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Ebru CİHAN ÇAM Elif Nursel ÖZMERT Nörogelişimsel Dil ve Konuşma Bozuklukları İlknur MAVİŞ Semra SELVİ BALO Yabancı Dil Öğrenmenin ve İki Dilliliğin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerine Etkileri Şüheda BAHTİYAR Elif Nursel ÖZMERT Beyin Plastisitesi ve Çocuk Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkisi Ayşe METE YEŞİL Bebeklerde Uyaran Desteğinin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkisi Hatice YALÇIN Anne - Bebek Etkileşiminin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Şeyma KILINÇ Elif Nursel ÖZMERT Toksik Stresin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Dilşad Yıldız MİNİKSAR Ayna Nöronlar ve Çocuk Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkisi Ece Naz MERT KARAKAYA Elif Nursel ÖZMERT Prematüre Bebeklerde Beyin Gelişimi ve Olası Gelişimsel Riskler Nilgün ALTUNTAŞ Bebeklik ve Erken Çocukluk Döneminde Beyin Gelişiminin Desteklenmesi: Uzmanlara ve Ailelere Öneriler Berrin SOMER ÖLMEZ Ergenlerde Beyin Gelişimi Melis PEHLİVANTÜRK KIZILKAN Beyin Gelişimini Etkileyen Genetik ve Epigenetik Faktörler Şule ALTINER Teratojenlerin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Adem GÜNER Kalıtsal Metabolik Hastalıkların Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Merve KOÇ YEKEDÜZ Konjenital Enfeksiyonların ve Koronavirüs Hastalığı-09 (Covid-9) Enfeksiyonu Ayşe Tuğba KARTAL Tiroid Hastalıklarının Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Zeynep ŞIKLAR Epilepsi ve Febril Konvülsiyonların Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Ayşe Tuğba KARTAL Diyabet ve Obezitenin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Zeynep ŞIKLAR Uyku ve Uyku Bozukluklarının Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Bedia YILDIRIM Bağımlılıkların Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Safiye Zeynep TATLI Psikolojik Travmaların Beyin Gelişimi Üzerine Etkileri Derya ŞAHİN Çocuk ve Ergenlerde Yapılan Beyin Ameliyatlarının Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Murat ZAİMOĞLU Ozan TEKNECİ Ömer Mert ÖZPİŞKİN Beslenmenin Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Hatice YALÇIN Oyunun Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Habibe DİLSİZ Umutcan GÖREN Hareket ve Sporun Beyin Gelişimi Üzerindeki Etkileri Özlem KESKİN Gülşah SEKBAN Levent CEYLAN Beyin Gelişiminde Estetik ve Sanat Handan BÜLBÜL Anksiyete ve Duygudurum Bozukluklarında Beyin Yapısı ve Gelişimi Tuğba ACEHAN Obsesif Kompulsif Bozuklukta Beyin Yapısı ve Gelişimi Duygu GÖKTAŞ Dikkat Eksikliği Hiperaktivite Bozukluğu ve Davranım Bozukluğunda Beyin Yapısı ve Gelişimi Neşe DİKMEER Erken Başlangıçlı Şizofrenide Beyin Yapısı ve Gelişimi Gökçe Yağmur EFENDİ Rahime Duygu TEMELTÜRK Özel Gereksinimi Olan Çocuklarda Beyin Gelişimi Nurşah YENİAY SÜT Üstün Yetenekli Çocuklarda Beyin Yapısı ve Gelişimi Bahar UYAROĞLU Burcu BÜLBÜN AKTI Nilgün METİN Sinirbilim Perspektifinden Çocuk ve Ergenlerde Zihin Kuramı Buse ŞENCAN KARAKUŞ Sinirbilim Perspektifinden Bilişsel Gelişim Kuramlarına Eklektik Bakış Didem YANGIN YILDIRIM Sinirbilim Perspektifinden Öğrenme Kuramlarına Eklektik Bakış Ercümend ERSANLI Volkan DURAN Çocuk ve Ergenlerde Yapılan Sinirbilim Araştırmalarında Elektroensefalografi (EEG) Kullanımı ve İşlevselliği Gülsüm AKDENİZ Çocuk ve Ergenlerde Yapılan Sinirbilim Araştırmalarında Nörogörüntüleme Tekniklerinin Kullanımı ve İşlevselliği Halil GÖKKUŞ Çocuk ve Ergenlerde Yapılan Sinirbilim Araştırmalarında Nöropsikolojik Testlerin Kullanımı ve İşlevselliği Mustafa DİNÇER

Introduction:This study examined the associations among ruminative thinking style (RTS), subjective wellbeing (SWB), and cognitive-behavioral physical activity (CBPA) in a sample of 1,326 adolescents (aged 14-18) from sports high schools. Method:Using validated self-report measures, data were analyzed through bootstrapped mediation models. Results:RTS was negatively associated with SWB (β = -0.1792, p < 0.001), while CBPA showed a partial mediating effect in this relationship (indirect β = 0.0779, p < 0.001). Discussion:These results suggest that cognitive-behavioral orientations toward physical activity may buffer the negative impact of rumination on wellbeing. Consistent with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, CBPA could provide adolescents with self-regulatory strategies that support mental health. However, the cross-sectional and self-report design, as well as the focus on sports high school students, limit causal inference and generalizability. Future longitudinal and cross-cultural studies are needed to confirm these findings. Overall, the study provides preliminary evidence that CBPA-informed approaches may hold promise for promoting adolescents' mental wellbeing.

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of exercise on psychological disorders in patients receiving childhood cancer treatment. Methods: The study group consisted of patients with cancer between the ages of 9 and 17 who were treated in the Hematology-Oncology units of Erciyes University. For the sample group, children with cancer were informed about the content of the study, and 40 children with cancer agreed to participate in the study voluntarily. The volunteers were divided into two groups, control and experimental, each consisting of 20 people. For the pre-test, participants completed a socio-demographic information form, as well as the Kovacs Depression scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the pediatric cancer quality of life scale for children. Volunteers in the experimental group engaged in aerobic and strength exercises for an eight-week period. The study was completed with 8 volunteers in the control group and 14 volunteers in the experimental group due to various factors, such as voluntary withdrawal, disease progression, and mortality. After this period, the volunteers were asked to complete the same scales once more as a post-test. The SPSS 22.00 statistical analysis program was used. The independent samples t-test was employed to compare the pre-test and post-test findings of the control and experimental groups, while the paired samples t-test was used for within-group evaluations. Results: In the within-group comparisons, significant differences were observed in favor of the post-test scores in the experimental group for both the anxiety scale (p < 0.05, Mean: 8.14) and the quality-of-life child form (p < 0.05, Mean: 38.14). For intergroup comparisons, significant differences were found in favor of the experimental group in terms of post-test scores of depression (p < 0.05, mean: 10.57) and anxiety scales (p < 0.05, mean: 8.14). Conclusions: It is postulated that this outcome stems from the positive effects of sports activities in helping children undergoing cancer treatment distance themselves from their psychological adversities.

There is growing interest in examining acute effects of exercise on cognitive functions and neurocognitive outcomes. These behavioral and neurocognitive outcomes have been most frequently investigated in healthy young individuals, but relatively few studies have examined healthy older adults. This study aimed to systematically review the effects of acute moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE) on core executive functions, including inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, in healthy older adults. A database search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted using a systematic search strategy. Acute MIAE interventions assessing core executive functions using randomized or stratified controlled trials investigating healthy older adults were reviewed. Eleven studies were identified, and the behavioral results from all included studies revealed that acute MIAE can improve core executive functions in healthy adults. However, incompatible results were observed in activated areas of the prefrontal cortex following MIAE in older adults. The limited number of studies investigating the effects of MIAE on core executive functions in older healthy adults with moderate overall quality restricts the conclusions. Therefore, more robust quality studies using neuroimaging techniques to investigate core executive functions, especially working memory and cognitive flexibility, are needed to explain the neural and behavioral mechanisms.

IntroductionAthletes competing in weight-class sports often seek to gain an advantage by competing at lower weights. Athletes competing in weight-class sports often seek to gain an advantage by competing at lower weights. To achieve this, they aim to lose weight during the competition period, leading to various physiological and psychological changes. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical, hormonal, and psychological effects of weight reduction in elite wrestlers during the competition phase.MethodsThirty-seven elite male free style wrestlers (age: 19.02 ± 1.27) participated in the study. Samples were collected 5 days before and on the day of the match.ResultsA significant decrease in body weight was observed (p < 0.05). Levels of creatine, BUN, sodium, hematocrit, hemoglobin, LDH, and cortisol increased, while albumin, testosterone, and FSH levels decreased. There were no significant differences in potassium, ALT, AST, TSH levels. State and trait anxiety scores of the wrestlers increased significantly during the RWL period.ConclusionThe study concluded that elite wrestlers experienced significant changes in physiological and psychological parameters during the competition periods. These findings underscore the importance of careful monitoring of RWL strategies by coaches and athletes to mitigate the adverse effects on nutritional status, psychological well-being, and physical performance.

Background: In this study, the Rsscan V9 (RsScan International, Olen, Bel & ccedil;ika) foot scanning system was used to determine the potential foot pressure distribution and foot contact times of individuals in early adolescence who did not receive sports training and those who received regular basketball training. Methods: The study involved 120 adolescent volunteers aged 11-14 years of which 60 did not receive sports training, and the other 60 received basketball training in Ankara for at least two years. The sociodemographic data of the study participants were documented. The foot pressure analyses were carried out in both fixed and moving postures. Results: When pressure values were compared between adolescents with and without basketball training, statistically significant differences were found between Q1 (left forefoot pressure) and Q2 (right forefoot pressure) values. Specifically the mean value (p < 0.05) of Q2 (right forefoot pressure) variable was higher in basketball participants compared to non-athletes. In non-athletes, Q1 (left forefoot pressure) (p < 0.05) was significantly higher than in participants who received basketball training. Similarly, with regard to the left forefoot pressure duration (left ms) variable, participants with basketball training showed significantly higher mean scores than non-athletes (p < 0.001). The findings revealed that there were differences in pressure imbalances and ground contact times between basketball players and non-players. Conclusions: If not controlled regularly, pressure imbalances can lead to serious discomfort in the feet, knees, hips and lower back, and serious injuries can be prevented if detected early. Minor injuries that develop due to repetitive movements and stress on joints from years of training can be treated early, and preventive applications can becarried out by recognising potential injuries. For this reason, it is recommended that basketball players have a regular foot pressure analysis carried out at the start of the season.

IntroductionThe study investigates the effects of Rapid Weight Loss (RWL) on the levels of psychological resilience and mechanical pain sensitivity in elite kickboxers. The primary aim was to examine changes in psychological resilience subdimensions and pressure pain threshold (PPT) values in the thoracolumbar region before and after a one-month RWL period leading up to competition. Hypotheses included expectations of significant reductions in PPT values due to biomechanical and physiological changes during RWL, along with improvements in psychological resilience subdimensions due to structured routines and social support.MethodsThirty-seven elite male athletes (age: 22.94 ± 1.98) participated in the study. Psychological resilience was assessed using the Psychological Resilience Scale for Adults, and mechanical pain sensitivity was evaluated through Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) measurements. Measurements were conducted before and after the RWL period, spanning one month prior to competition.ResultsThe results revealed significant PPT values across all thoracolumbar segments after RWL (p < 0.001). Cohen’s d values indicated large effect sizes for these changes (d = 2.10–2.36). The L5 segment exhibited the largest PPT decrease (t = −10.45, d = 2.36), while the Th1 segment showed the smallest decrease (t = −8.23, d = 2.10). Measurements taken at 4 cm from the spine midline also demonstrated significant PPT reductions (p < 0.001), with the highest change recorded in the L5 segment (t = −9.78, d = 2.30). Psychological resilience subdimensions, including “structured style,” “social competence,” “future orientation,” and “social resources,” improved significantly after RWL (p < 0.05), while “family cohesion” and “personal strength” did not show significant changes. Athletes who previously ranked in tournaments exhibited higher psychological resilience, potentially due to enhanced self-confidence.DiscussionThese findings align with literature suggesting that competitive success and optimism play crucial roles in resilience development. Personality traits and perceived social support further contributed to the observed resilience levels. This study highlights the multidimensional impact of RWL, emphasizing its detrimental effects on pain sensitivity and its mixed outcomes on psychological resilience. RWL-associated increases in mechanical hyperalgesia, especially in the lumbar region, were attributed to biomechanical and neurophysiological factors. Enhanced psychological resilience observed in certain subdimensions underscores the importance of structured and social support systems in mitigating RWL-induced stress. Future research should explore interventions to optimize resilience and manage pain during RWL periods, focusing on individualized support strategies for athletes. These findings contribute to understanding the interplay between psychological and physiological factors during RWL, practical insights for athletic training.

BackgroundThe impact of resistance training extends beyond the enhancement of muscle strength, encompassing improvements in physical performance, postural stability, and overall functional capacity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 4-week resistance training program on functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness, and liver density in healthy older women.MethodsThe study included 30 healthy women aged 60–80 years and was designed as a randomized controlled experimental trial. Participants were randomly assigned to a resistance training (RT) group or a control (CON) group. Each participant attended the laboratory on three occasions: during the initial visit, the study procedures were explained; the second visit involved baseline assessments (6MWT, diaphragm thickness and liver fat via ultrasound, and respiratory muscle strength); and final measurements were conducted after the 4-week training programme during the third visit.ResultsWhen pre- and post-training measurements were compared, the resistance training (RT) group demonstrated a significantly greater improvement (8.02%) in the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distance compared to the control group (p < 0.001). In terms of diaphragm thickness (DT), the RT group showed a 16.66% increase, whereas the control group exhibited a 1.13% decrease (p < 0.001). Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) increased by 12.30% in the RT group, while it decreased by 7.25% in the control group, indicating a 19.55% greater improvement in the RT group (p < 0.001). Regarding maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), a significant improvement of 21.48% was observed in the RT group, whereas a 0.75% decrease was recorded in the control group, resulting in a 22.23% greater enhancement in the RT group (p < 0.001). Finally, liver density (LD) increased by 12.30% in the RT group, while it decreased by 7.25% in the control group (p < 0.001).ConclusionAs a result of resistance training, greater improvement was observed in functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness and liver density in the training group compared to the control group.

Bu çalışma, badminton sporcularında proprioseptif duyu ile 2D:4D parmak uzunluk oranı arasındaki ilişkiyi inceleyerek, spor deneyiminin proprioseptif duyu üzerindeki etkisini araştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Çalışmaya yaş ortalaması 9,94±1,59 yıl, spor tecrübesi ise 2,62±1,08 yıl olan 60 badminton sporcusu (30 erkek, 30 kız) katılmıştır. Proprioseptif duyu sapma açısı, omuz eklemi için 90° fleksiyon hedef açısı kullanılarak ölçülmüştür. Parmak uzunluk oranları (2D:4D) dijital kumpas ile ölçülmüş ve prenatal hormon maruziyetinin bir göstergesi olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Bulgular, spor deneyimi arttıkça proprioseptif duyunun geliştiğini göstermiştir. Spor yaşı ile proprioseptif duyu sapma açısı arasında negatif yönde anlamlı bir ilişki saptanmıştır (r=-0,372; p=0,023). Cinsiyetler arasında sağ ve sol el 2D:4D oranı açısından anlamlı fark bulunurken (p=0,001; p=0,002), proprioseptif duyu sapma açısı açısından anlamlı bir fark bulunmamıştır (p=0,506). Ayrıca, sağ ve sol el 2D:4D oranı ile proprioseptif duyu arasında anlamlı bir ilişki tespit edilmemiştir (p=0,156; p=0,717). Bu sonuçlar, spor deneyiminin proprioseptif duyunun gelişiminde kritik bir rol oynadığını, ancak cinsiyet ve 2D:4D oranının bu duyu üzerinde belirgin bir etkisinin olmadığını göstermektedir. Çalışma, özellikle genç sporcuların antrenman programlarına proprioseptif eğitimlerin dahil edilmesinin önemini vurgulamaktadır. Gelecekteki çalışmaların, daha geniş örneklemlerle ve farklı spor branşlarında bu ilişkileri incelemesi önerilmektedir.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the acute effects of the FIFA 11+ and Harmoknee warm-up protocols in female football players on flexibility, vertical jump, and shooting speed performance. Methods: This study involved 17 female football players who volunteered to participate, had no history of medical conditions, maintained regular menstrual cycles (28 ± 2 days, range: 26–33 days) in the three months preceding the study, and consistently engaged in football training. The Harmoknee and FIFA 11+ neuromuscular warm-up protocols were applied to the study group on different days, 48 h apart. After the exercises, athletes were tested for flexibility, vertical jump, and shooting speed. Two trials were allowed for each test, with a 3 min break between trials. The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to check for normality, and an independent sample t-test was used to compare groups. The p-value was set at <0.05 to determine statistical significance. Results: When comparing warm-up protocols, it was established that the FIFA 11+ neuromuscular warm-up protocol positively affects athletes’ vertical jump performance compared to other protocols (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the FIFA 11+ warm-up protocol resulted in better vertical jump performance in female soccer players compared to the Harmoknee warm-up routine. The FIFA 11+ protocol activates leg muscles, and balance exercises improve the neuromuscular characteristics of the warm-up compared to the Harmoknee protocol.

BackgroundThe effect of inspiratory muscle training on diaphragm muscle thickness (DT) and one repetition maximal (1RM) in professional natural bodybuilders is still unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle training on diaphragm muscle thickness and 1RM in professional natural bodybuilders.MethodsThe study comprised a total of 22 athletes who participated in bodybuilding competitions. Each athlete had undergone a minimum of 5 years of training, with a minimum weekly commitment of 5 hours. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and control (CON). The CON continued their normal training regime, while the IMT group also performed inspiratory muscle training with a 10% weekly increase by setting the resistance setting of the PowerBreathe® Classic device to 40% of the participant’s maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP). Prior to and during the 4-week training period, 1RM bench press measurements and diaphragm muscle thickness measurements were obtained.ResultsIn the comparison of 1RM power values before and after training, it was determined that the IMT group (%: 11.20) had 6.3% more post-activation performance enhancement compared to the CON group (%: 4.9) (p < 0.001). In the study, it was determined that a higher level of significant post-activation performance enhancement was obtained in the IMT group compared to the CON group in the diaphragm muscle thickness inspiratory phase (DT ins) and ekspiratory phase (DT eks) parameters at 20.36% and 19.46%, respectively.ConclusionIn conclusion, we determined that the addition of progressive loading inspiratory muscle training to preparation programmes in natural bodybuilders will improve diaphragm muscle thickness, 1RM physical performance. In particular, it shows that the diaphragm muscle should be considered not only as a muscle that supports respiration, but also as a muscle that contributes to power generation by optimising intra-abdominal pressure.

Background:The effect of inspiratory muscle training on upper limbs One Rep Maximum (1RM) in professional natural bodybuilders is still unclear. Our aim of this study is to investigate the effects of a 6 weeks inspiratory muscle training on 1RM results. Methods:This study included 14 athletes, that had participated in international bodybuilding competitions. Each athlete had been training for minimum of 5 years and at least 5 h per week. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and control (CON) groups. The IMT group and CON group consisted of seven subjects. While the control group continued with the normal training regime, the IMT group additionally performed inspiratory muscle training with the resistance setting of the PowerBreathe® Classic device set to 40% of the participant's MIP. Prior to and during the 6-week training period, the bench press 1 RM, anthropometry, pulmonary function tests, and maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressure measurements were obtained. A nutrition protocol developed by a qualified dietician was implemented for each athlete. Results:The mean maximal strength of the respiratory muscle training group changed by 14.39%, whereas that of the control group changed by 9.43% (p = 0.012). The changes in the mean FVC (p = 0.000), FEV1 (p = 0.001), PEF (p = 0.064), MIP (p = 0.001), and maximal expiratory pressure (p = 0.017) were greater in the IMT group. The mean circumferences of the shoulder (p = 0.004), chest (p = 0.008), arm (p = 0.004), and neck (p = 0.003) improved more in the IMT group than in the CON group. A reduction in abdominal measurement was observed in the IMT group (p = 0.039), whereas no notable discrepancy was identified in body fat percentage (p = 0.295). Conclusion:In conclusion we identified that the addition of progressive loading inspiratory muscle training for competition preparation programs in professional natural bodybuilders will further improve their respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, maximal strength, and muscle development. This research provides valuable insights into how IMT influences bodybuilding training outcomes, potentially guiding future interventions and program designs to better support strength development and body composition in bodybuilding training contexts.