Polish Journal of Sport and Tourism Feed

Effectiveness of Physical-Literacy-Based Online Education on Indices of Physical Activity in High-School Adolescents

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a physical-literacy-based online education program on physical activity levels (PAL) and physical literacy (PL) components in high-school adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods. A total of 544 Croatian adolescents (aged 14-18 years) participated in a 12-week intervention. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 270) or a control group (n = 274). PAL was assessed using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), while PL knowledge and perception were evaluated using the CAPL-2 Knowledge and Understanding (CAPL-2-KU) and PLAYself questionnaires. A total of 466 students completed both pre- and post-tests. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Results. PAL decreased in both groups (PAQ-A: from 2.70 ± 0.70 to 2.52 ± 0.69; p < 0.05), with a smaller decline in the intervention group (−0.15) than in the control group (−0.21). CAPL-2-KU scores significantly increased in the intervention group (from 9.00 ± 2.04 to 9.73 ± 1.73; p < 0.001; η² = 0.08), indicating improved PL knowledge. Small but significant improvements were also observed in PLAYself total scores (from 68.46 ± 12.74 to 69.36 ± 11.93; p = 0.001; η² = 0.02). Gender analysis showed greater improvements among girls, particularly in CAPL-2-KU (η² = 0.13) and PLAYself total (η² = 0.02). Conclusions. The PL-based online education program effectively enhanced adolescents’ PL knowledge and self-perception and mitigated the decline in PAL during a period of reduced school activity. Future interventions should integrate knowledge-based and experiential components to promote sustained engagement in physical activity.

Examining the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Lifestyle and Perceived Health among Infected and Non-Infected Hungarian Adults

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily routines, physical activity patterns, and mental health on a global scale. Mental health and subjective physical health are closely interrelated: pandemic-induced stress, social isolation, and fear have documented negative effects on both psychological and physical well-being. The objective of this study was to examine differences in lifestyle changes and perceived health – both general and mental – between Hungarian adults who had been infected with COVID-19 and those who had not, and to identify associations among key health-related indicators within both groups. Material and Methods. A cross-sectional survey with retrospective comparison was conducted between January and August 2023 among 806 Hungarian adults recruited via convenience sampling through five universities. A validated five-part questionnaire battery was administered, covering socio-demographic characteristics, recreational habits, life satisfaction (SWLS; LSS-SF), psychological distress (DASS-42), psychological well-being (Ryff Scale – Shortest Version), and psychological capital (PCQ). The analysed sample comprised n = 780 participants (49.2% male, 50.8% female; 50% infected, 50% non-infected). Data were analysed using SPSS 26, applying descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis, with a significance threshold of alpha = 0.05. Results. The majority of respondents rated their general health as good or excellent regardless of infection status (infected: 83.7%; non-infected: 87.7%). A strong positive correlation was found between general health perception and mental health (r = 0.649, p < .001). Lifestyle changes were reported by more than three-quarters of participants in both groups, with reduced sport participation and limited social contact as the most affected domains. Significant group differences between infected and non-infected participants were observed in several lifestyle categories. Conclusions. COVID-19 infection was associated with specific differences in lifestyle and health perception. Subjective health remained generally positive across both groups. The findings underline the need for integrated health promotion strategies – addressing physical activity, social engagement, and mental health simultaneously – in the post-pandemic recovery of the Hungarian adult population.

Relationship between Physical Activity, Perceived Stress, and Psychological Well-Being in University Students

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Perceived stress has reached concerning levels among university students, and physical activity (PA) has emerged as a relevant strategy for mitigation. This study aimed to examine whether perceived stress mediates the relationship between physical activity (PA), assessed as total volume, and IPAQ-SF intensity components (vigorous, moderate, and walking), and psychological well-being (PWB) in university students. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 103 students from the University of Málaga (21.7 ± 2.3 years). PA was assessed using the IPAQ-SF (MET-min/week), stress with the PSS-14, and PWB with the Ryff-39. Analyses included descriptive statistics, ANOVA/t-tests, Pearson/Spearman correlations, and a simple mediation model (PROCESS macro). Results. Overall, 66.99% of participants reported high PA levels (≥3,000 MET-min/week). Total PA averaged 4,860 ± 3,497 MET-min/week (range = 0–12,852). Perceived stress (PSS-14) was 27.31 ± 9.30 points (range = 6-56), and global psychological well-being (RYFF_GLOBAL) averaged 4.40 ± 0.58 on a 1-6 scale. Total PA was negatively associated with perceived stress (r = −0.28; p = 0.005), and perceived stress was negatively associated with PWB (r = −0.46; p < 0.001). The indirect effect of PA on well-being through stress was significant (ab = 0.13; 95% CI [0.04, 0.24]). Students with high PA levels (≥3,000 MET-min/week) reported significantly lower perceived stress than those with low-to-moderate PA (p = 0.021). Conclusions. Physical activity appears to contribute to university students’ psychological well-being primarily through its association with reduced perceived stress. University-based interventions should integrate regular exercise with stress-management strategies to optimize students’ psychological well-being.

Effects of Blood Flow Restricted Resistance Training on Peak Upper Body Strength in Young Male Population

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Various strength training methods exist, with Blood Flow Restricted Resistance Training (BFRRT) emerging as a novel approach. This study aimed to compare BFRRT effectiveness against traditional resistance training for improving upper body strength in young males. Material and Methods. Sixty male participants (18-26 years) were assigned to the experimental group or the control group that received BFRRT or conventional resistance training respectively (n = 30 each). Both groups completed four weeks of bench press training (three sessions weekly) with the BFRRT group applying cuff pressures at 40-80% of arterial occlusion pressure. Upper body strength was assessed using 1-repetition maximum bench press testing before and after 4 weeks of intervention. Data were analysed using GraphPad Prism (version 9.5.1). Paired sample t-test was used to analyse within-group data and independent-samples t-test was used to analyse between-group differences. Results. The BFRRT group demonstrated strength increases from 80.33 ± 8.19 kg to 89.50 ± 8.23 kg (Δ = 9.17 kg; p < 0.05). The control group improved from 81.50 ± 9.11 kg to 87.67 ± 8.78 kg (Δ = 6.17 kg; p < 0.05). Although within-group gains were significant for both protocols, between-group comparison did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). Conclusions. Both training methods enhanced upper body strength effectively, with BFRRT demonstrating greater improvement potential. BFRRT integration into resistance programs may optimize strength development in young adults.

Risk of Red-S Syndrome among Individuals Who Regularly Engage in Physical Activity

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Regular physical activity increases energy expenditure and requires adequate energy intake to maintain physiological homeostasis. Inadequate energy intake can lead to low energy availability (LEA), which is a key factor in the development of relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S), a syndrome affecting multiple systems in the human body. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of RED-S. The study was conducted among physically active young adults in Poland and involved the identification of dietary and behavioral factors associated with an increased risk of RED-S. Material and methods. A total of 151 participants (72 women, 79 men) aged 22.09 ± 2.2 years completed an online questionnaire assessing dietary habits, hydration, physical activity, and energy intake. Basal metabolic rate was calculated using the Mifflin-St. Jeor equation, and lean body mass was calculated using the James (1976) formula. Total energy expenditure was compared to the intake to estimate energy deficits. Results. Approximately 70% of participants had a negative energy balance, and most consumed four or fewer meals per day. Logistic regression showed that a negative energy balance significantly increased the risk of RED-S in both women (OR = 3.82) and men (OR = 8.50). In men, inadequate hydration and low meal frequency were also significant predictors. Conclusions. The results indicate that physically active young adults, especially men, may be at increased risk of RED-S due to poor eating habits. Better nutrition education and energy balance monitoring are recommended.

Resistance Training Effects on Functional Fitness, Muscular Strength and Explosive Power in Postmenopausal Women are Intensity-Dependent

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. This study investigated the differential effects of low-intensity (LRT) versus high-intensity resistance training (HRT) on muscle strength, power, and functional fitness in community-dwelling older women, an area where the specific influence of training intensity remains unclear despite the known benefits of RT in this population. Material and Methods. Thirty-six postmenopausal women were randomly allocated, by simple randomization, to three equal groups: LRT, HRT, and sedentary control (SC). Participants in the RT groups trained three times per week for eight weeks at either 40% (LRT) or 80% (HRT) of their one-repetition maximum (1RM). Muscle strength was evaluated using 1RM test. Lower- and upper-limb explosive power was measured via countermovement jump (CMJ) and medicine ball throw (MBT), respectively. Functional fitness was further examined using the 30-second arm curl test (30s-ACT), 30-second chair stand test (30s-CST), back scratch (BS), chair sit-and-reach (CSR), stepping down test (SDT), and stepping up test (SUT). Results. In the LRT and HRT groups, functional fitness (including the 30s-ACT, 30s-CST, BS, CSR, SDT, and SUT) and muscle strength (1RM) were significantly improved at 8 weeks compared with the SC group. Only the HRT group exhibited significant enhancements in explosive power (both CMJ and MBT). Compared with the LRT, the HRT showed additional significant improvements in overall functional fitness, whole-body strength and explosive power. Conclusions. The benefits of RT on functional ability, strength, and explosive power among postmenopausal women are strongly dependent on training intensity.

Salivary Alpha-Amylase and Cortisol Changes in Response to Basketball Training in Men and Women

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. This study aimed to determine changes in the level of alpha-amylase and cortisol in the saliva of male and female basketball players after one session of basketball training. Additionally, the study examined whether differences existed between females and males in the levels of these biomarkers in response to physical exertion. Material and Methods. The study involved 30 athletes from academic leagues (17 females and 13 males). The training session consisted of warm-up, conditioning, and tactical drills and lasted for 90 minutes. A sample of saliva was obtained before and after the training session. Salivary flow, alpha-amylase, and cortisol were measured. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank and U-Mann were used for statistical analysis at a significance level of 0.05. Results. After the training session, a significant increase in salivary cortisol levels was observed in females (p < .05), whereas in males, a significant increase (p < .05) was noted in salivary alpha-amylase levels. There were no significant differences in alpha-amylase and cortisol levels between females and males before and after exercise. Conclusions. These results suggest that the response to physical exertion may vary depending on gender, which highlights a need for further research targeting the relationship between exercise intensity, hormonal response, and body adaptation.

Safety in Sailing Tourism: The Case of the Great Masurian Lakes Route

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Recreational sailing has become an increasingly popular form of leisure in Poland. The well-known Great Masurian Lakes Route (GMLR) allows visitors to explore picturesque locations that are inaccessible from land. Most scientific studies focus on safety in maritime sailing, whereas there is a lack of publications and scholarly analysis concerning yacht sailing on lakes. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of skippers with varying levels of qualifications regarding the factors affecting sailing safety, as well as to analyze police statistics and data from the Masurian Volunteer Rescue Service (MOPR) concerning incidents involving vessels on GMLR. Material and Methods. A survey of skippers’ opinions was conducted during the summer seasons of 2024-2025 at seven ports located along GMLR. An original questionnaire developed by the authors was used, and its reliability was assessed (Kappa = 0.92). Data on police interventions were provided by the Head of the Social Communication Department of the Provincial Police Headquarters in Olsztyn. Data on rescue operations and other activities were obtained from MOPR based in Giżycko. Results. Nearly half of the surveyed yacht skippers (49.5%) consider the need for changes in legal regulations to be justified, while 57.2% see the need for mandatory sailing training before taking the exam. Checking the weather before departing from the port and properly responding to weather changes and received warning signals are the main factors affecting sailing safety. More than half of the respondents (55%) see the need for a universal and free warning-information application for sailors. A significant proportion of sailors consume alcohol during sailing trips or do so occasionally. Conclusions. Sailors report having very good or good knowledge of legal regulations; however, not all of them adhere to these rules during sailing trips, as confirmed by police statistics. The dangerous situations experienced by the respondents and their safety concerns do not lead to the perceived need to purchase liability insurance.

Polish Tourists’ Perception of Tunisia: Towards A Cultural Reinterpretation of the Destination

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. In an era of fierce competition in the global tourism market, the perception of a destination plays a key role in shaping travellers’ choices. Tunisia, promoted for decades mainly as a holiday destination, has gained a strong but stereotypical image as a “3S” country. Meanwhile, its historical heritage and multicultural identity create potential for the development of cultural and sustainable tourism. This article aimed to investigate whether the existing image of Tunisia as a “3S” destination is transforming towards a “4H” model and whether the actual experiences of tourists influence the structure of associations and emotional attitudes towards this country. Material and methods. The study was conducted among 438 respondents from Poland using a diagnostic survey method (CAWI) between April 2024 and April 2025. The questionnaire included open-ended questions relating to knowledge, perceptions and associations with Tunisia, as well as closed questions concerning attitudes and travel intentions. Descriptive statistics were used to compare the results of two groups of respondents: those who had been to Tunisia and those who had not. Results. Respondents who had not been to Tunisia most often associated the area with the sea, beaches and a warm climate. On the other hand, those who had visited the country pointed to elements of cultural heritage, the hospitality of the inhabitants and sensory stimuli (tastes, smells, colours). The differences were statistically significant and confirm that personal contact with a place strengthens the complex, emotional image of a destination. Conclusions. The results suggest that Tunisia has considerable potential for developing cultural tourism, including experiential tourism that supports sustainable development. The results also show that the image of this destination has undergone a change.

Daily Physical Activity, Diet And Body Composition Of Women Participating In Different Fitness Modalities: Cardio, Muscle, Cardio & Muscle, And Body & Mind

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Women increasingly participate in organized fitness activities that differ in training characteristics, physiological demands, and potential effects on lifestyle behaviors and body composition. Despite growing interest in fitness participation, comparative studies simultaneously addressing physical activity, sedentary behavior, diet quality, nutrition knowledge, and body composition across different fitness modalities remain limited. This study aimed to assess these factors among young adult women regularly participating in cardio, muscle, cardio & muscle, or body & mind fitness classes and to examine associations between lifestyle behaviors and adiposity. Material and Methods. The study included 276 women aged 20-35 years who regularly attended one selected fitness modality. Physical activity and sitting time were assessed using the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Dietary behaviors and nutrition knowledge were evaluated with selected components of the KomPAN questionnaire, including the Pro-Healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10) and Non-Healthy Diet Index (nHDI-14). Body composition was assessed using anthropometric measurements, skinfold thickness, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Nonparametric statistical tests and Spearman’s rank correlations were applied. Results. All groups demonstrated high levels of total physical activity. Women participating in cardio & muscle classes showed the highest mean levels of total and vigorous physical activity, whereas the lowest values were observed in the cardio group; however, these differences were not statistically significant. A significant positive association was found between sitting time and body fat percentage. Diet quality and nutrition knowledge were moderate across all groups, with no significant intergroup differences. The most favorable body composition parameters were observed in women attending muscle classes, while the highest adiposity values occurred in the body & mind group, although most differences were not statistically significant. Conclusions. Among physically active young women, fitness modality alone was not a key determinant of physical activity level, diet quality, nutrition knowledge, or overall body composition. Total exercise dose and sedentary behavior appeared to be more important factors influencing adiposity. Reducing sitting time alongside regular exercise may enhance health outcomes in women participating in fitness programs.

Saving the Toughest for Last: 50th Completers’ Final U.S. State High Points

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This paper finds that the most difficult U.S. state high point climbs are saved for the end. 50th completers are significantly more likely to save more difficult U.S. state high points for their final high point ascent. There is also some more limited evidence that 50th completers save more distant high points for their final ascent.

Roars vs. Results: A Natural Experiment on Spectator Impact in Elite European Football Leagues

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. The Covid-19 pandemic influenced the world in many ways, including sport. Many competitions were held without spectators, creating a natural experiment for the evaluation of home advantage. The present study thus evaluates the impact of crowd presence on home advantage in high level football competitions, specifically outcomes of all games in four highest ranked European leagues (England – Premier League, Spain – La Liga, Italy – Serie A, Germany – Bundesliga) from the start of the 2018/2019 season until the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Material and Methods. The traditional method of Pollard was used to evaluate home advantage in divisions of leagues and on three time intervals relative to the Covid-19 pandemic – before, during and after. Test for one proportion was done to check if the result of home advantage was significant, while tests for two proportions were used to compare home advantage between the time intervals. Results. In three of the four leagues (English, Spanish, German), home teams had significantly lower coefficient of home advantage results in games without spectators compared to games with spectators, but in the four leagues combined, home advantage was significant in games without spectators. Conclusions. The results indicate that crowd support is a significant contributor to home advantage in the best European football leagues, although the presence of spectators per se is not the only factor which influences home advantage, suggesting a need to consider other factors that may be of relevance.

Between Sea, Sand, and Self: A Structural Model of Tourist Intention in Parangtritis Coastal Tourism

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Although coastal tourism continues to attract scholarly interest, studies on consumer behaviour in sand dune coastal settings – particularly those that integrate self-congruence, destination personality, destination image, and novelty seeking – remain notably limited. This study addresses this gap by developing a structural model that explores the psychological and perceptual drivers of visit intention in Parangtritis Sand Dunes, a symbolically sacred and environmentally sensitive destination on the southern coast of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Rooted in self-congruence theory and destination branding literature, the study incorporates six key constructs: destination personality, self-congruence, novelty seeking, perceived value, destination image, and visit intention. Material and methods. Data were collected from 246 valid respondents aged 17 and above who were aware of the site’s existence. A convenience sampling approach was employed using both personal outreach and WhatsApp distribution. All constructs were measured on a six-point Likert scale. Analytical procedures included exploratory factor analysis, AVE, reliability testing, and hypothesis testing using structural equation modelling. Results. Self-congruence significantly influenced destination image, perceived value, and visit intention. Destination personality impacted destination image, and perceived value strongly affected visit intention. However, novelty seeking and destination image did not significantly influence perceived value and visit intention, respectively. These findings suggest that emotional alignment and symbolic resonance with the destination – more than thrill-seeking impulses – drive responsible tourist behaviour. Conclusions. This study contributes to the discourse on sustainable tourism by emphasizing the importance of internal psychological alignment and identity-based branding in fostering meaningful and sustainable engagement with culturally and ecologically fragile coastal destinations.

Effectiveness of a Block Approach to Training with Double Periodization in Rowers aged 14-16 Years

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Rowing at the age of 14-16 allows you to form a reserve of functional and physical training of rowers for the transition to the stage of higher achievements. The issue of a block approach to training of young rowers has been little studied. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of a block approach with double periodization of training on the physical training and performance of rowers at the age of 14-16 years at distances of 500 m and 1000 m within the annual training program. Material and methods. Forty-three male athletes who were randomly divided into experimental and control groups took part in the study. Monitoring of the results of rowing on water (500 m and 1000 m) was carried out in three stages: 1st stage – September 2023, the beginning of the study; 2nd stage – March-April 2024, the end of the winter stage; and 3rd stage – September 2024, the end of the summer stage. Results. A more pronounced improvement in the rowing results of the experimental group at a distance of 500 m by 5.09% (p < .001) and at a distance of 1000 m by 3.81% (p < .001) was noted compared to the control group. Conclusions. A more pronounced improvement in the results of the experimental group athletes compared to the control group can prove the feasibility of further research and using the block approach concept in practice to optimize programs and periodization of sports training.

Comparing the Effects of Linear and Undulating Periodized Resistance Training on Serum Levels of Testosterone, Follistatin, and Strength in Sedentary Men

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. The mechanisms of hypertrophy induced by resistance training are thought to be related to the effects of testosterone on Follistatin (Fst). Furthermore, determination of the most effective periodization model for strength and creating anabolic conditions is an important step for strength and conditioning professionals. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to compare the effects of linear periodized (LP) and weekly undulating periodized (WUP) resistance training on testosterone, Fst and one repetition maximum (1RM). Material and Methods. Twenty young sedentary men were randomly divided into equal groups of LP and WUP. The subjects performed whole body LP and WUP interventions for 9 weeks (corresponds to 80-90% 1RM). Fasting blood samples were taken pre and post training. 1RM of upper and lower body was also estimated by bench press and squat, respectively. Results. Intra-group comparisons showed that LP (p = 0.005 and p = 0.001 for bench press and squat, respectively) and WUP (p = 0.001 for both bench press and squat) induced a significant increase in 1RM. In contrast, neither LP nor WUP interventions had a significant effect on serum testosterone (p = 0.258 and p = 0.609 for LP and WUP, respectively), cortisol (p = 0.797 and p = 0.079 for LP and WUP, respectively), and Fst (p = 0.768 and p = 0.852 for LP and WUP, respectively). Finally, inter-group comparisons did not show any significant differences between 1RM (p = 0.247 and p = 0.478 for upper and lower body), Fst (p = 0.381), testosterone (p = 0.813), and cortisol (p = 0.724) at the end of the protocol. Conclusions. Both LP and WUP resistance training regimens, independent of Fst and testosterone changes, similarly improve maximal strength in sedentary men.

Is Physical Activity Associated with Physical Literacy and Health Literacy in Older Women? Preliminary Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Croatia

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Physical literacy (PL) and health literacy (HL) are important concepts that are theoretically associated with physical activity (PA), but studies have rarely examined these problems simultaneously in older adults, particularly women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between HL and PL with PA in women older than 60 years from Croatia. Material and methods. The participants were 49 women from an urban center in southern Croatia who were tested on HL (via the validated Croatian version of the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire), PL (via the Perceived Physical Literacy Questionnaire for South Eastern Europe), and PA (via the Nordic Physical Activity Questionnaire – short version) in controlled settings. Different facets of PL and HL were univariately and multivariately correlated with weekly moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and weekly vigorous PA (VPA). Results. Almost 39% of the participants reached the World Health Organization recommendations for weekly PA. The PL variables were not significantly correlated with MVPA, nor with VPA (up to 6% of the common variance). The HL was significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with VPA across several subdomains (9% to 20% of the common variance). Multiple regression analysis revealed a significant multivariate association between HL subdomains and VPA (27% of the explained variance), indicating a positive influence of the higher HL on PA in older women. Conclusions. Promoting HL in older women can enhance PA by improving their understanding of the health risks and benefits of PA. Educational efforts should focus not only on providing information but also on helping women interpret and apply it in meaningful, everyday contexts.

Exploring the Impact of New Technologies on Sport Tourism: A Comprehensive Review

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. New technologies have emerged as promising avenues for enriching sport tourism experiences by immersing participants in virtual environments. By synthesizing existing literature, the study seeks to unveil the potential benefits and challenges associated with incorporating different types of virtual realities into sport tourism settings. Material and Methods. The analysis, based on studies from Scopus and Web of Science, employed frequency analysis and thematic modeling, proving effective in identifying high-frequency keywords. A thematic evolution map highlighted relationships and categorized keywords into motor, niche, basic, and emerging or declining themes. This clustering revealed predominant themes in the literature on new technologies in sport tourism. Results. Throughout the review, three key clusters surrounding the fusion of new technologies with sport tourism are identified, (1) management and marketing strategies, (2) engagement, and (3) device innovation. Conclusions. Virtual reality is recognized as the leading technology in sport tourism within the scientific literature, while consumer-focused research and technology innovation studies are identified as key areas for future research.

Effects of Kinesio Taping with Conventional Physiotherapy on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome among University Football Players

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal condition among sports players, often resulting in anterior knee pain and functional limitations. While conventional physiotherapy remains a cornerstone of treatment, Kinesio Taping (KT) has emerged as a complementary approach aimed at enhancing rehabilitation outcomes. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of KT combined with conventional physiotherapy versus conventional physiotherapy alone in improving pain and performance measures in football players with PFPS. Material and Methods. The present quasi experimental study included 52 football players aged 18-25 years with PFPS. They were divided into two groups (n = 26 each). KT group received KT with conventional physiotherapy, while conventional group received physiotherapy alone. The intervention was administered three times a week for four weeks. Outcome measures included pain, speed, agility, vertical jump height, dynamic balance and Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale (KAKPS) score. Results. KT group exhibited significant improvements in all variables (p < 0.05) at a confidence interval of 95%. VAS improved from 6.15 ± 1.04 to 2.23 ± 0.95, speed improved from 4.73 ± 0.31 to 4.65. There was also an improvement in agility (12.18 ± 0.62 to 12.07 ± 0.64), vertical jump height (43.17 ± 6.20 to 46.82 ± 6.68), Y balance score (77.44 ± 2.36 to 84.61 ± 3.55) and Kujala score (61.08 ± 3.97 to 91.27 ± 4.41). Conventional group also showed statistically significant differences in all variables except agility. On comparison, KT group showed statistically superior outcomes (p < 0.05) in pain intensity, speed, balance and Kujala score (effect size: 1.22, 0.82,1.24 and 0.62, respectively) relative to conventional group. Conclusions. Kinesio Taping, when combined with conventional physiotherapy, significantly improved pain reduction, speed, balance and Kujala score compared to conventional physiotherapy alone.

The Effects of an Integrated Physical Education Program on Enhancing University Students’ Physical Fitness: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. With rising sedentary behaviors among university students, enhancing physical fitness is imperative. This study evaluates the efficacy of an integrated physical education program designed to improve comprehensive fitness levels. Material and methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 589 undergraduate students (aged 18-19) at An Giang University, Vietnam. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group, which engaged in a structured physical education program – comprising two 120-minute sessions per week over two consecutive 15-week semesters based on periodization principles – or to a control group following the standard curriculum. Fitness was evaluated using standardized tests including dominant hand grip strength (kg), 30-second sit-up test (repetitions), standing long jump (cm), 30 m sprint (s) from a high-start position, 4×10 m shuttle run (s), 5-minute maximum run (m), sit-and-reach test (cm). Results. Post-intervention analysis revealed that the experimental group achieved statistically significant improvements (p < 0.01) in all fitness parameters relative to the control group. Both male and female students demonstrated marked enhancements in muscular strength, speed, and endurance. Conclusions. The integrated physical education program effectively enhanced the physical fitness indices of university students. These findings support the adoption of systematic, periodized training interventions in higher education settings to promote overall student health and academic performance.

Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (RED-S) and Performance among Athletes

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. RED-S is a critical condition that impairs athletic performance and health due to an imbalance between energy in-take and expenditure. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of RED-S and its relationship with performance among athletes. Material and Methods. A purposive sample of 250 athletes, aged 18-25 years, competing at district, state, and national levels, was selected from two universities in Tamil Nadu, India. Athletes with severe injuries were excluded. Background information was obtained using a structured interview schedule, and RED-S risk was assessed through the RED-S Questionnaire. Athletic performance was evaluated using standardized measures of muscular strength, flexibility, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness. Results. Findings indicated that 74% of female and 51% of male athletes were at moderate risk of RED-S (X2 = 17.58, p = 0.00). Participation in intermittent and endurance sports was associated with significantly higher RED-S scores, particularly among females (X2 = 7.72, p = 0.02, X2 =11.9, p = 0.00). ANOVA revealed significant differences in RED-S scores across BMI categories for both genders, with normal-weight, overweight, and obese athletes unexpectedly showing elevated risk (males: f = 7.67, p = 0.05; females: f = 6.06, p = 0.02). Strong negative correlations were found between RED-S scores and key performance metrics such as cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, and muscular strength – especially among female athletes, with similar patterns observed in males. Conclusions. These findings highlight the importance of early identification, education, and implementation of targeted nutritional and training interventions to mitigate RED-S risk and enhance athlete well-being and performance.