Biomedical Human Kinetics Feed

Assessment of the neurophysiological development of infants receiving Vojta therapy

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

AimThe aim of this study is to analyze the relationships between spontaneous motor activity (SMA), ideal movement patterns (IMPs), and central coordination disorders (CCDs) assessed before and after Vojta therapy vs the type of delivery, the presence of primitive reflexes, and postural asymmetry in infants.Material and methodsThe study involved 90 female and 107 male infants aged 1–16 months (males: 4.15 ± 2.18; females: 3.84 ± 2.12). After a preliminary examination, 149 subjects began Vojta therapy and 139 of them (77 males and 62 females) completed therapy. The psychomotor development of infants was assessed before and after Vojta therapy. The duration of therapy ranged from 1 to 33 months. The results were correlated with the presence of primitive reflexes, the type of delivery, and postural asymmetry.ResultsIn the assessment of seven postural reactions, both male and female subjects performed significantly (p < 0.05) better in all reactions after completing Vojta therapy. Infants of both genders also showed significant improvements in SMA and IMP scores and in postural symmetry.ConclusionVojta therapy significantly improves the psychomotor development of infants by reducing developmental deficits assessed based on seven postural reactions (CCD score), postural asymmetry, palmar grasp reflex, and the Moro reflex.

Motor performance and anthropometric characteristics of youth rowers across gender and nationality

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe aim of this study, conducted within the framework of the international “Ramons vers les Jeux” program, was to examine differences and associations in motor performance and anthropometric characteristics of adolescent rowers across genders and national groups.Materials and methodsA total of 190 athletes from six countries participated in the study (94 boys: 14.24 ± 0.38 years; 96 girls: 14.47 ± 0.26 years). Measurements included body height, body weight, rowing ergometer sprint performance (Wₘₑₐₙ, 100 m), start power test (Wₘax, 5 strokes), standing triple jump (SLJ), and estimated relative aerobic capacity (ErVO2max) derived from a shuttle run test.ResultsNo significant differences were observed between national groups within the same gender (p > 0.05), whereas significant differences were found between boys and girls (p < 0.05). Standing triple jump performance demonstrated significant moderate correlations with both maximum power (Wₘax; r = 0.519, p < 0.001) and sprint performance (Wₘₑₐₙ; r = 0.447, p < 0.001), indicating an association between lower-limb explosive strength and rowing ergometer performance during adolescence. Body weight showed stronger correlations with performance outcomes (Wₘax: r = 0.644; Wₘₑₐₙ: r = 0.562; both p < 0.001) than body height, while estimated aerobic capacity was not significantly related to power-based performance indicators.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that dynamic lower-limb strength and body composition are important contributors to rowing ergometer performance in adolescent athletes. Alongside endurance development, targeted training of explosive leg power should be considered a key component in the long-term development and selection of young rowers.

Metabolic syndrome outcomes and insulin resistance among former elite middle-aged combat sports athletes with a history of rapid weight loss: A case–control study

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe objective of this study was to determine metabolic syndrome (MS) outcomes and insulin resistance (IR) among retired combat sports athletes (CSA) who practiced rapid weight loss (RWL) compared with the control group (CG).Material and methodsThe present case–control study included 56 male former elite middle-aged CSA, as well as 52 respondents in the CG who did not practice RWL during their careers. The MS outcomes referred to the waist circumference, fasting glucose, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The levels of fasting insulin and blood glucose were determined before and following the oral glucose tolerance test.ResultsFormer CSA had significantly higher values of systolic blood pressure (r = −0.42, p < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (r = −0.42, p < 0.001), triglycerides (r = −0.28, p = 0.004), and total cholesterol (r = −0.25, p = 0.011) compared with the matched CG. The statistically significant differences regarding the fasting insulin (p = 0.026) and fasting glucose (p = 0.023) were revealed at the final measurement in favor of the former CSA. The odds of having an MS (68 vs. 19%, respectively, odds ratio = 9.49 [95% confidence interval 3.76, 23.95], p < 0.001) were substantially greater among athletes with a history of RWL relative to the CG.ConclusionThe findings of the current study demonstrated that the MS outcomes and IR were more pronounced among former elite middle-aged CSA with a history of RWL compared with the matched male controls.

The impact of a 3-year aerobic-based swimming training program on selected motor variables and anaerobic capacity in non-elite 10–2-year-old female swimmers

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of a structured swimming training program on selected motor abilities in young female swimmers compared to a control group. Material and methods: The study lasted 3 years. The experimental group included 14 swimmers (mean biological age at baseline: 10.52 years), while the control group consisted of 14 girls (mean biological age: 10.74 ± 0.62 years) who only participated in compulsory physical education classes. Every 6 months, both groups were tested for lower limb explosive strength, speed, and coordination, abdominal muscle strength, and anaerobic power (estimated using the vertical jump test).ResultsAfter 3 years of training, the swimming group demonstrated significantly better performance in lower limb explosive strength - standing long jump test (KW-H(1,168) = 66.173, p = 0.001), speed and coordination (KW-H(1,168) = 32.806, p < 0.001), reach jump (KW-H(1,168) = 12.433; p = 0.004), the horizontal scissors execution time (KW-H(1,168) = 43.915; p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group showed a higher median muscle power output (MPA); however, this difference was not statistically significant after Bonferroni correction compared with the swimmers.ConclusionsA three-year endurance-based swimming training program can significantly improve girls’ motor skills and influence their biological maturation.

Impact of caffeine intake on squat performance and biomechanics: A randomized crossover trial

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimTo analyze the effect of 6 mg/kg of caffeine (CAFF) on performance and technique.Material and methodsIn a randomized, crossover, double-blind study, 14 trained naïve-low consumers of CAFF executed 6 back squats, both unfatigued and fatigued, in a control, a placebo (PLA), and a CAFF session at the same setting, with a 7-day wash-out. Computer-generated random numbers allocated participants to intervention sequences. The primary outcomes were performance and biomechanical parameters.ResultsThe analyses considered the seven participants randomized per sequence. Hip flexion at the bottom position in PLA (d = 0.72), and its eccentric (d = 0.94–1.32) and concentric (d = 0.68–1.01) range of motion (ROM) in PLA and CAFF, increased, while fatigue augmented it at the final position (d = 0.47), and decreased its eccentric (d = 0.60) and concentric (d = 0.84) ROM. Fatigue decreased knee flexion at the bottom position (d = 0.21) and concentric ROM (d = 0.94) but augmented it at the final position (d = 0.53), and PLA increased its eccentric ROM (d = 0.79). CAFF and PLA reduced ankle dorsiflexion at the bottom (d = 0.85–0.89) and final (d = 0.78–0.86) positions. PLA worsened concentric time (d = 1.07), peak vertical force (PVF) (d = 0.74), and rate of force development (RFD) (d = 0.88). Fatigue reduced eccentric (d = 0.57) and concentric (d = 0.70) PVF, concentric RFD (d = 0.47), and mean propulsive bar velocity (d = 0.66). Most of CAFF common side effects were reported.ConclusionCAFF was not ergogenic for squats, while PLA hindered performance. CAFF, PLA, and fatigue modified the squat technique, potentially affecting its benefits. This trial was supported by “AGAUR-FI ajuts Joan Oró” and prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06039358).

Isokinetic strength and functional capacity in soccer players 24 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis cross-sectional study aimed to compare inter-limb differences in isokinetic peak torque (PT), hop performance, and dynamic balance in soccer players 24 months post-ACLR, and secondarily to examine associations between PT and functional test performance.MethodsTwenty-four soccer players who had undergone ACLR 24 months prior were assessed. Isokinetic PT of the knee extensors and flexors was measured at 60, 180, and 300°/s. Functional performance was evaluated using the single hop for distance, the 30 s side hop (SH), and the Y-balance test (YBT). Paired-samples t-tests assessed inter-limb differences; Pearson correlation analysis SHD examined associations between PT and functional outcomes.ResultsSignificant inter-limb differences were found in knee extensor PT at all velocities and in flexor PT at 60°/s. Mean inter-limb differences ranged from 10.25 to 17.08 Nm for knee extensors and were 7.54 Nm for knee flexors at 60°/s (Cohen’s d = 0.45–0.65). No differences were found in hop or YBT scores. A substantial portion of participants did not meet the symmetry threshold for isokinetic strength or SH performance. SH performance was significantly associated with extensor and flexor PT at specific velocities, while extensor PT was also associated with selected YBT directions and the composite score.ConclusionsIn this sample of male soccer players, strength asymmetries may persist 24 months post-ACLR, although group-level differences in hop and YBT performance were not observed. SH and selected YBT outcomes may complement, but not replace, isokinetic evaluation.

Passive lower-limb exoskeletons in industry: A review of “Chairless Chairs” for reducing fatigue and musculoskeletal strain

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe aim of this systematic review is to categorize and evaluate lower-limb exoskeletons, including commercial and research-based models, to identify the most effective designs for alleviating musculoskeletal strain and fatigue in industrial settings.Material and methodsA comprehensive search of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus yielded 87 studies; 17 of these met the inclusion criteria (published within the last 10 years in the English language and available as a full text). Data on exoskeleton type, design, and performance outcomes were extracted.ResultsPassive exoskeletons, particularly “chairless chairs,” such as NOONEE and LegX, were the most effective, reducing lower-limb strain by up to 64 and 56%, respectively. Research prototypes demonstrated similar outcomes, with some achieving 83% reduction in muscle activity. Reported benefits included lower perceived discomfort, improved usability, and reduced contact pressure.ConclusionPassive lower-limb exoskeletons are a feasible and effective ergonomic intervention for tasks involving prolonged standing in industrial settings. Their portability, ease of use, and capacity to reduce muscular load make them especially suitable for widespread adoption in the workplace. Future research should evaluate long-term health, safety, and productivity outcomes in real-world industrial environments.

Immediate effect of breathing retraining on weight distribution and postural stability in collegiates with altered breathing pattern

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundBreathing patterns influence postural control through biomechanical and neurophysiological mechanisms involving trunk stabilization and autonomic regulation. Altered thoracoabdominal breathing may contribute to asymmetrical plantar loading and impaired postural alignment in young adults.ObjectiveTo evaluate the immediate effect of diaphragmatic breathing retraining on plantar weight distribution in collegiate students with altered breathing patterns.MethodsThis exploratory single-group pre–post study recruited 100 collegiate students aged 18–28 years using convenient sampling. Participants with altered thoracoabdominal breathing, identified using the Hi-Lo test, underwent a standardized 15-min diaphragmatic breathing retraining protocol. Plantar pressure variables, including maximum pressure and regional pressure distribution across the hindfoot, midfoot, forefoot, and toes, were assessed during static bipedal stance using the Ezra OHM 3000 plantar pressure system before and after the intervention. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Pre–post comparisons were performed using paired t-tests, with effect sizes (Cohen’s d), 95% confidence intervals, and Bonferroni correction applied for multiple comparisons.ResultsPost-intervention analysis demonstrated a redistribution of plantar pressure characterized by increased maximum and hindfoot pressure and reduced midfoot, forefoot, and toe pressures. Although several variables reached statistical significance at p < 0.05, only left maximum plantar pressure remained significant after Bonferroni correction. Effect sizes were small to moderate.ConclusionDiaphragmatic breathing retraining produces immediate, measurable changes in plantar weight distribution in collegiate students with altered breathing patterns. These findings suggest a potential role for breathing-based interventions in optimizing postural alignment, warranting further controlled studies.

Training-induced changes in shoulder muscle mechanical properties in volleyball players

Sat, 16 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis pilot study aimed to quantify acute and short-term pre- to post-session changes in the mechanical properties of shoulder girdle muscles in volleyball players during an in-season preparatory mesocycle.Material and methodsEight male volleyball athletes competing at the national academic level underwent assessments once per week across a 3-week in-season preparatory mesocycle immediately preceding the Polish Academic Volleyball Championships. At each session, MyotonPRO was used to measure tone (Hz), stiffness (N/m), and elasticity (log. decrement, D) before and after standardized 120-min training. Upper-body explosive power was assessed via the seated medicine-ball throw. Week-specific pre–post comparisons were tested with paired t-tests (Cohen’s dz, 95% CI). Two-way repeated-measures ANOVAs examined Time (pre/post) × Week effects.ResultsUpper trapezius tone increased significantly post-training across all weeks (dz = 0.90–1.01, p < 0.05). Lower trapezius elasticity improved consistently (Δ = –0.13 to –0.17, dz ≈ –1.0, p < 0.05), while infraspinatus elasticity improved only in Week 3 (dz = –1.13, p = 0.015). Exploratory repeated-measures ANOVA also identified a Time effect for upper trapezius tone (F(1,7) = 12.1, p = 0.010, η p 2 {\eta }_{\text{p}}^{2} = 0.634), although ANOVA-based effect sizes should be interpreted cautiously given the pilot sample.ConclusionsPreliminary data suggest that selected shoulder stabilizers exhibited short-term pre- to post-session changes in tone and elasticity during the monitored in-season preparatory mesocycle. Given the pilot sample, these localized changes should be interpreted cautiously.

Upper trunk flexion versus whole trunk elevation in semi-Fowler’s position: Effects on ventilation and heart rate responses

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe semi-Fowler’s position is widely used to support respiratory function and reduce cardiovascular stress. Despite the known cardiovascular benefits of upper trunk flexion in Fowler’s position, its effects in the semi-Fowler’s position remain uninvestigated. This study aimed to compare the effects of upper trunk flexion (UT30) and whole-trunk elevation (WT30) at 30° on ventilation and cardiac chronotropy in healthy young women.Material and methodsFourteen healthy young women (age: 20.6 ± 0.7 years; height: 162.1 ± 5.4 cm; weight: 53.1 ± 5.6 kg) participated in a randomized crossover design comparing supine, 30° whole-trunk elevation (WT30), and 30° upper trunk flexion at T10 (UT30). Tidal volume (TV), minute ventilation (MV), respiratory rate, and RR intervals were measured using a pneumotachograph and ECG (BIOPAC MP150) after 5-min equilibration. Data were analyzed using Linear Mixed Models (R version 4.3.3).ResultsBoth UT30 and WT30 increased TV (Δ + 79 and + 94 mL) and MV (Δ + 0.89 and + 1.18 L/min) versus supine (all p < 0.001), with no UT30–WT30 differences. RR interval decreased in WT30 versus supine (Δ − 0.029 s, ≈ +2.1 bpm, p = 0.038) but not in UT30 (p > 0.05); the direct UT30–WT30 comparison was not significant.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that UT30 may be an efficient low-burden posture in healthy young women; applicability to populations with limited cardiovascular reserve requires direct clinical validation.

VEGFA and KDR gene variants as potential markers of endurance performance and sports-related injuries: A systematic review

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimGenetic predisposition influences athletic performance and susceptibility to sports injuries. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VEGFA and KDR (VEGFR2) genes affect oxygen delivery, vascular adaptation, and tissue regeneration, potentially impacting endurance and injury risk. However, research on these effects remains limited. This systematic review examines the association of VEGFA and KDR SNPs with endurance performance and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury susceptibility in athletes.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases. Eligible studies were case-control designs involving athletes and examining VEGFA or KDR SNPs in relation to endurance performance or ACL injuries. Selection was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Seven studies met the criteria.ResultsThe VEGFA rs2010963 polymorphism was linked to elite athlete status, with the C allele associated with higher VO2max and power output (Wmax). The KDR rs1870377 A allele was more frequent in endurance athletes. Regarding injuries, the rs2010963 CC genotype correlated with a higher risk of ACL rupture, while the VEGFA A–A–G haplotype (rs699947, rs1570360, rs2010963) showed a protective effect. A VEGFA rs35569394 polymorphism increased ACL injury risk in I allele carriers.ConclusionThese findings suggest VEGFA and KDR polymorphisms may modulate aerobic performance and ACL injury risk. Further research is needed to validate these associations and improve genetic profiling in sports science.

Effects of cold-water, contrast-water therapy, and active recovery on blood biomarkers and pain in basketball players

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis study evaluated the effects of active recovery (AR), cold-water immersion (CWI), contrast-water therapy (CWT), and a no-recovery control (CWR) on creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin (Mb), and pain pressure thresholds (PPT) in national-level basketball players across three time points: immediately post-match, 24 h, and 48 h post-match.Materials and methodsTwenty professional players participated in a randomized crossover trial in which each underwent all four conditions. A single intervention was applied post-match, with CK and Mb levels assessed at each time point, and PPT measured on the quadriceps and triceps surae.ResultsAll conditions showed peak CK and Mb levels at 24 h post-match, followed by a decline at 48 h. Significant time effects were observed (p < 0.001), with condition × time interactions for all variables (η 2 = 0.26–0.94). Unexpectedly, the CWR condition had the lowest CK and Mb concentrations and highest PPT values at 48 h, indicating better biochemical and nociceptive recovery. CWI resulted in significantly lower PPT compared to AR, CWT, and CWR (p < 0.001). After accounting for baseline differences using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), condition effects remained significant at both 24 h and 48 h post-match (all p < 0.01, η 2 p = 0.15–0.91).ConclusionWhile AR, CWI, and CWT affected muscle damage and pain sensitivity, CWR led to the most favorable outcomes, suggesting that a single recovery intervention may not outperform rest. Notably, CWI was less effective for pain sensitivity despite moderating biomarkers.

Impact of the Sherborne developmental movement method on the motor and psychosocial development of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe aim of this study is to examine the impact of the Sherborne developmental movement (SDM) program on motor and psychosocial development and behavior in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).Material and methodsFifteen participants with ASD were assessed in motor development using the short form of Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (BOT-2). Psychosocial functioning was evaluated with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ-Hel), and behavior was measured using the Behavioral Summarized Evaluation (BSE). A pre-post intervention design with an experimental and a control group was employed.ResultsParticipants in the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in BOT-2 (F = 36.845, p = 0.001, η 2 = 0.739) and prosocial behavior (PB) of the SDQ (F = 35.977, p = 0.001, η 2 = 0.735), as well as reductions in the behavioral difficulties of the BSE (F = 137.054, p = 0.001, η 2 = 0.913). Multiple regression analysis further indicated that PB was a significant predictor of motor development.ConclusionThe findings support the efficacy of SDM as a body-based intervention for enhancing developmental outcomes in individuals with ASD. Despite limitations in sample size and setting, the study provides valuable evidence for incorporating SDM into special education curricula. Future research should adopt longitudinal and mixed-methods approaches to explore the long-term and generalizable effects of SDM.

Moderate aerobic exercise increases adiponectin but not pancreatic β-cell function in men with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis study aims to determine the impact of 4 weeks of moderate aerobic exercise on adiponectin and pancreatic β-cell function in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Materials and MethodsTwenty-two men with T2DM who participated in this randomized controlled trial were randomly assigned to trial (n = 11) or control (n = 11) groups. The trial group took part in 4 weeks of moderate aerobic exercise consisting of three sessions/week of 30 min/day. Variables were measured 30 min before the first session and after the last session, including weight, height, body mass index, insulin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), adiponectin, and HOMA-β. Independent t-tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, paired t-tests, and Fisher’s exact tests were performed.ResultsTwenty men with T2DM in trial group (n = 10) and control group (n = 10) were analyzed. There were significant differences in adiponectin levels between the groups after exercise (p = 0.003) and in the degree of adiponectin changes between groups (p = 0.017). FPG levels between groups was significantly different after exercise (p = 0.018). There was no significant difference in HOMA-β levels between the trial and control groups after 4 weeks of exercise (p = 0.131). No linearity between adiponectin changes and HOMA-β changes was observed.ConclusionFour weeks of moderate aerobic exercise improved adiponectin and glucose uptake. While adiponectin levels increased, β-cell function did not show a significant change as measured by HOMA-β.

Relationships between different training session types and subsequent match demands in elite female soccer players

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThis study analyzed the influence of small-sided games (SSGs), tactical (T), conditioning (C), and combined sessions on the subsequent match demands in elite female soccer players.Material and methodsTwenty-four female players (age: 24.5 ± 2.3 years; height: 171 ± 3.0 cm; body mass: 63.5 ± 4.0 kg) from the Turkish National Team participated. Players were monitored during training and matches using 15 Hz global positioning system units, measuring external load parameters such as total distance (TD), player load (PL), high-speed running (HSR), accelerations (ACCs), decelerations (DECs), maximum speed (MaxSpeed), running deviations (RDs), and footstrikes (FS), relativized per minute.ResultsConditioning sessions significantly influenced match ACCs and DECs, while SSGs effectively replicated match-specific demands, particularly PL and HSR. Combined sessions (C + SSGs + T) contributed to improvements in MaxSpeed and HSR. FS during conditioning and SSGs were strong predictors of match TD and FS, respectively.ConclusionDifferent training formats produce distinct external load responses during subsequent matches. SSGs closely mirrored key match demands such as PL and HSR, making them effective for match-specific conditioning. In contrast, conditioning sessions were more effective for enhancing ACCs and DECs. These findings may assist coaches in designing training sessions that are more aligned with the physical demands of competition.

Physical activity recommendations for adolescents with overweight, high screen time, and low social support – A scoping review

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimUsing an exploratory scoping approach, this review aimed to synthesize and integrate physical activity (PA) recommendations for adolescents experiencing overweight, high screen time, and low social support to identify shared principles for tailored PA interventions.Material and methodsScientific articles published between 2010 and 2024 were retrieved from the selected databases MEDLINE (via PubMed), SPORTDiscus, EBSCOhost platform, and Google Scholar. Search terms included overweight/obesity, high screen time, low social support, in addition to physical activity in youth/adolescents, and recommendations. Selected articles were analyzed qualitatively.ResultsAccording to the recommendations, PA for overweight adolescents should involve support of family or friends, consider an individualized approach, the socioeconomic context, enjoyment of the activity, and the appropriate length, intensity, and type of exercise. Recommendations for PA for adolescents with high screen time include removing psychosocial barriers, involving loved ones, being active at home, using apps that limit screen time and promote healthy lifestyles, and ensuring self-control in achieving goals. PA planning for adolescents with low social support may consider the support of key social agents, access to nature, and a sense of autonomy.ConclusionsThe reviewed recommendations show recurrent principles for adolescents with overweight, high screen time, and low social support, highlighting interpersonal relationships, individualization, autonomy, and long-term motivation for physical activity.

Differences in self-assessed tactical skills and perceived game-specific competence between elite and non-elite youth soccer players

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimsThis study compares tactical skills and perceived game-specific competence among elite and non-elite youth soccer players and examines the relationships between the two constructs.Materials and methodsThis study adopted a cross-sectional survey. A total of 131 male youth soccer players (M age = 16.55 ± 1.33 years) participated in the study. Data were collected using the Tactical Skills Inventory for Sport (TACSIS) and the Perceived Game-Specific Soccer Competence Scale (PGSSCS).ResultsThe results show that elite players significantly (p < 0.01) outscored non-elite players on all TACSIS subscales: Knowing about Ball Actions, Knowing about Others, Positioning and Deciding, and Acting in Changing Situations. Furthermore, the elite players significantly (p < 0.01) scored higher on all PGSSCS subscales than the non-elite players: Offensive Skills, 1v1 Skills, and Defensive Skills. The results show that these three skill groups were significantly (p < 0.01) correlated with Positioning and Deciding (r = 0.865, r = 0.747, and r = 0.673, respectively), Knowing about Ball Actions (r = 0.82; r = 0.70 and r = 0.56), Acting in Changing Situations (r = 0.75, r = 0.67, and r = 0.72, respectively), and Knowing about Others (r = 0.73, r = 0.66, and r = 0.59, respectively).ConclusionThese findings have practical implications for coaches, who should focus on developing the tactical knowledge that will enable players, especially at the non-elite level, to achieve maximum performance.

Associations between physical activity and health-related quality of life in cancer patients on active treatment

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe aim of this study is to determine the physical activity levels of patients undergoing active cancer treatment and to examine the relationship between physical activity and quality of life.Material and methodsA total of 213 cancer patients (112 females and 101 males: mean age = 58.7 ± 12.5 years) voluntarily participated in the study. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form, while quality of life was measured with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire. Demographic and medical data were collected via a Personal Information Form developed by the researchers.ResultsThe overall mean physical activity score was 739.6 ± 983.5 MET min/week, indicating a generally low activity level. Significant differences were observed across cancer types (p < 0.05), with prostate cancer patients showing the highest physical (77.1 ± 24.6), emotional (86.3 ± 23.3), and global health status (72.0 ± 35.2) scores. A moderate positive correlation was found between total physical activity and global health status (r = 0.39, p < 0.001).ConclusionDuring active cancer treatment, most patients demonstrated low levels of physical activity, which were closely associated with poorer health-related quality of life, particularly in the physical, emotional, and global health domains. These findings underscore the importance of integrating structured physical activity into comprehensive cancer care, particularly for patients with lung and other non-prostate cancers who appear most susceptible to inactivity-related declines in quality of life. During active cancer treatment, further prospective and interventional studies are needed to better understand the relationship between physical activity and quality of life in these patients.

A three-arm randomized controlled trial of self-foot massage and reflexology combined with aromatherapy in individuals with hypertension: Effects on physiological parameters, sleep quality, and quality of life

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimsChronic hypertension (HT) poses a significant health challenge as it substantially elevates the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. Currently, there is a lack of research investigating the combined effects of self-administered aroma foot massage and reflexology on physiological parameters, sleep quality, and overall quality of life in individuals with HT.Material and methodsForty-eight hypertensive patients, aged between 30 and 60 years, were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a combination of self-foot massage and reflexology with aromatherapy (SFM), foot massage only (FM), and a control group (CON), each consisting of 16 participants. Each intervention session lasted 15 min and was conducted three times a week. The primary outcomes measured included heart rate (HR) and blood pressure, while secondary outcomes encompassed sleep quality and quality of life, evaluated using the Thai versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF. Assessments were carried out before and after a 4 week experimental period.ResultsSignificant improvements were noted in the SFM group, with reductions recorded in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), HR, and PSQI score (p < 0.01). In the FM group, there was a significant decrease in SBP and HR (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in any of the variables within the CON group.ConclusionThis study suggested that the intervention combining self-foot massage, reflexology, and aromatherapy effectively improved BP, HR, and sleep quality in hypertensive patients.

Tibialis posterior strength and lower extremity kinematics in Kathak dancers with pronated feet: A biomechanical analysis

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Study aimThe aim of this study is to find out the correlation between a pronated foot with tibialis posterior muscle strength and lower extremity kinematics during gait in Kathak dancers.Materials and methodsAn observational study in which 30 female Kathak dancers of age ranging from 18 to 25 years were included after assessing for foot type and tibialis posterior muscle strength was conducted, and lower extremity kinematics were analyzed. Foot posture index, tibialis posterior muscle strength: manual muscle testing (modified Medical Research Council grading), lower limb kinematics (GaitON Software) were the outcome measures used to assess.ResultsStatistical analysis was done using the Pearson correlation coefficient test, according to which there is no correlation between foot posture index and tibialis posterior muscle strength (p > 0.05). There is a significant positive correlation between foot posture index and frontal plane rear foot angle during midstance bilaterally.ConclusionThe study concludes that tibialis posterior muscle strength has not been affected in Kathak dancers with a pronated foot. Lower limb kinematics in the frontal plane has been affected more than sagittal plane kinematics in kathak dancers with a pronated foot.