Effect of Eutony, Holistic Gymnastics and Pilates on hamstring flexibility and back pain in pre-adolescent girls: Randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Eutony, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates on hamstring flexibility and back pain in pre-adolescent girls. METHODS: This randomized prospective quantitative clinical trial compared the effects of Eutony, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates on hamstring flexibility and back pain. The sample consisted of 80 pre-adolescent girls aged 10-13 years and divided into three groups: Eutony, with 26 girls; Holistic Gymnastics, 27 girls; and Pilates, 27 girls. The participants underwent ten 1-h weekly interventions. Hamstring flexibility was evaluated using fingertip-to-floor, sit-and-reach, and hip angle tests; back pain was evaluated using the Body Posture Evaluation Instrument questionnaire and the way they carried their backpack by the Layout for Assessing Dynamic Posture. Descriptive statistical analysis, analysis of variance, and Kruskal-Wallis test were performed at a 5 % significance level (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The three body practices increased hamstring flexibility in all fingertip-to-floor (7.77 cm), hip angle (5.58°), and sit-and-reach evaluations (9.07 cm). Before the intervention, 66.25 % of participants complained of back pain. After the intervention, only 37.50 % continued with the complaint. Moreover, 25 % of pre-adolescent girls started to carry their school backpack correctly. CONCLUSION: Eutony, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates increased hamstring flexibility, reduced back pain complaints, and incentivized the girls to carry the school backpack correctly. REGISTRY OF CLINICAL TRIALS: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials ReBEC (RBR-25w6kk).

Genetic polymorphisms related to muscular strength and flexibility are associated with artistic gymnastic performance in the Japanese population.

This study aimed to examine how genetic polymorphisms related to muscular strength and flexibility influence artistic gymnastic performance in an attempt to identify a novel polymorphism associated with flexibility. In study 1, the passive straight-leg-raise (PSLR) score and aromatase gene CYP19A1 rs936306 polymorphism, a key enzyme for estrogen biosynthesis, were assessed in 278 individuals. In study 2, athletes (281 gymnasts and 1908 other athletes) were asked about their competition level, and gymnasts were assessed using the difficulty score (D-score) for each event. Muscular strength- (ACTN3 R577X rs1815739 and ACE I/D rs4341) and flexibility-related (ESR1 rs2234693 T/C and CYP19A1 rs936306 C/T) genetic polymorphisms were analyzed. In study 1, males with the CYP19A1 CT + TT genotype showed significantly higher PSLR scores than those with the CC genotype. In study 2, male gymnasts with the R allele of ACTN3 R577X showed a correlation with the floor, rings, vault, and total D-scores. In addition, male gymnasts with the C allele of ESR1 T/C and T allele of CYP19A1 C/T polymorphisms were correlated with the pommel horse, parallel bars, horizontal bar, and total D-scores. Furthermore, genotype scores of these three polymorphisms correlated with the total D-scores and competition levels in male gymnasts. In contrast, no such associations were observed in female gymnasts. Our findings suggest that muscular strength- and flexibility-related polymorphisms play important roles in achieving high performance in male artistic gymnastics by specifically influencing the performance of events that require muscular strength and flexibility, respectively.HighlightsEstrogen-related CYP19A1 polymorphism is a novel determinant of flexibility in males.Muscular strength- and flexibility-related polymorphisms play important roles in high performance in male artistic gymnastics.Genotypes of ACTN3 R577X, ESR1 rs2234693, and CYP19A1 rs936306 may contribute to training plan optimization and event selection in artistic gymnastics.

Physical fitness in core strengthening training in university students practicing aerobic gymnastics / Aptidão física no treino de fortalecimento do core em universitárias praticantes de ginástica aeróbica / Aptitud física en el entrenamiento de fortalecimiento del core en estudiantes universitarias que practican gimnasia aeróbica

ABSTRACT Introduction Aerobic gymnastics is an emerging sport. It develops mainly the aerobic body metabolism improving the cardiopulmonary function of the practitioner. Objective To analyze the influence of core strength training on the physical fitness of university athletes who practice aerobic gymnastics. Methods Using mathematical statistics, we studied the influence of aerobic exercise on the physical fitness of female college athletes. The fitness index test of female college aerobics athletes was performed with Excel 2007, and the obtained results were discussed. Results College female students showed significant improvement in somatization, interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, and other four factors after aerobic gymnastics exercise (P<0.05). After the practice period, female college students improved orthostatic performance, long jump, stretching in sitting forward position, 1 minute sitting, running four times round trip for 10 meters, and 800 meters. The increase was 11.16cm, 5.02cm, 8.34 times/min, 2.13s, and 9.42s. Conclusion Core training in aerobic gymnastics can strengthen the body, allowing awareness of physical training in college women. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the results.

RESUMO Introdução A ginástica aeróbica é um esporte emergente. Ela desenvolve principalmente o metabolismo aeróbico corporal aprimorando a função cardiopulmonar do praticante. Objetivo Analisar a influência no treino de fortalecimento do core sobre a aptidão física em atletas universitárias praticantes de ginástica aeróbica. Métodos Utilizando estatísticas matemáticas, estuda-se a influência do exercício aeróbico sobre a aptidão física das atletas universitárias. O teste do índice de aptidão física de atletas de aeróbica feminina de faculdades foi executado com Excel 2007 e discutiu-se os resultados obtidos. Resultados As estudantes universitárias apresentaram melhora significativa na somatização, sensibilidade interpessoal, ansiedade, e outros quatro fatores após o exercício de ginastica aeróbica (P<0,05). Após o período de prática, as estudantes universitárias tiveram melhora no desempenho ortostático, salto à distância, no alongamento em posição sentadas para frente, 1 minuto sentadas, corrida 4 vezes de ida e volta por 10 metros, e 800 metros. O aumento foi respectivamente de 11,16cm, 5,02cm, 8,34 vezes/min, 2,13s, e 9,42s. Conclusão O treino do core na ginástica aeróbica pode fortalecer o corpo, permitindo a conscientização do treino físico nas universitárias. Nível de evidência II; Estudos Terapêuticos - Investigação de Resultados.

RESUMEN Introducción La gimnasia aeróbica es un deporte emergente. Desarrolla principalmente el metabolismo corporal aeróbico mejorando la función cardiopulmonar del practicante. Objetivo Analizar la influencia del entrenamiento del core en la aptitud física en atletas universitarias que practican gimnasia aeróbica. Métodos Utilizando la estadística matemática, se estudió la influencia del ejercicio aeróbico en la aptitud física de las atletas universitarias. La prueba del índice de aptitud física de las atletas universitarias de aerobismo se realizó con Excel 2007 y se discutieron los resultados obtenidos. Resultados Las estudiantes universitarias mostraron una mejora significativa en la somatización, la sensibilidad interpersonal, la ansiedad y otros cuatro factores después del ejercicio de gimnasia aeróbica (P<0,05). Después del periodo de práctica, las estudiantes universitarias tuvieron una mejora en el rendimiento ortostático, en el salto de longitud, en el estiramiento en posición sentada hacia delante, en la posición sentada de 1 minuto, en la carrera de 4 vueltas de 10 metros y en los 800 metros. El aumento fue, respectivamente, de 11,16 cm, 5,02 cm, 8,34 veces/min, 2,13 s y 9,42 s. Conclusión El entrenamiento del core en la gimnasia aeróbica puede fortalecer el cuerpo, permitiendo la concienciación del entrenamiento físico en las estudiantes universitarias. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de resultados.

Estimated energy expenditure and training intensity in young female artistic gymnasts

Abstract Aim: This study determined the energy expenditure and effort intensity of athletes during women's artistic gymnastics training sessions. Methods: Ten gymnasts (age 10.9 ± 1.7 years) performed a test to estimate the maximum rate of oxygen uptake (VO2max), during which the maximum heart rate (HRmax) was also obtained. The heart rate (HR) of these gymnasts was recorded during five training sessions and then used to estimate the exercise intensity and energy expenditure. Results: Mean duration of training sessions was 4.08 ± 0.42 h, with mean HR corresponding to 137 ± 8 bpm or 69.0 ± 3.5% of HRmax. Gymnasts spent less training time at 90-100% HRmax compared to the other HR ranges (p < 0.05). Time spent at 60-70% and 70-80% was higher compared to 80-90% HRmax (p = 0.012 and p = 0.001, respectively). The training impulse was 239.2 ± 35.4 AU. Estimated energy expenditure was 768.3 ± 168.5 kcal, metabolic rate was 3.1 ± 0.6 kcal/min, and the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) corresponded to 6.1 ± 0.6. Conclusion: Young gymnasts performed prolonged and moderate-intensity training sessions that generated high energetic demands. This information is beneficial to gymnasts since the coaching team can use the data to control the training load and prescribe a proper diet.

Ulnar-Sided Wrist Pain in the Athlete: Sport-Specific Demands, Clinical Presentation, and Management Options.

ABSTRACT: Ulnar-sided wrist injuries are common in sports that require repeated pronosupination, wrist radial/ulnar deviation, axial loading, and gripping equipment. Common anatomic structures affected include the triangular fibrocartilage complex, extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, distal radioulnar and ulnocarpal joints, and hamate bone. Presenting symptoms include pain with activity, swelling, possible snapping or clicking, and reproduction of symptoms with provocative maneuvers. Imaging may confirm or rule out pathologies, but abnormal findings also may present in asymptomatic athletes. Initial treatment is usually nonoperative with splinting, load management, activity modification, strengthening the components of the kinetic chain of the particular sport, and pain management. Surgery is usually indicated in ulnar-wrist pain pathology such as hook of hamate fractures and required in associated instability. Future research should address specific treatment and rehabilitation protocols, emphasizing the complete kinetic chain along with the injured wrist.

Serum levels of bone formation and resorption markers in relation to vitamin D status in professional gymnastics and physically active men during upper and lower body high-intensity exercise.

PURPOSE/INTRODUCTION: To compare serum levels of bone turnover markers in athletes and non-athletes, and to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D metabolites and exercise-induced changes in biomarker levels. METHODS: Sixteen elite male artistic gymnasts (EG; 21.4 ± 0.8 years-old) and 16 physically active men (the control group, PAM; 20.9 ± 1.2 years-old) performed lower and upper body 30-s Wingate anaerobic tests (LBWT and UBWT, respectively). For biomarker analysis, blood samples were collected before, and 5 and 30 min after exercise. Samples for vitamin D levels were collected before exercise. N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) was analysed as a marker of bone formation. C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) was analysed as a marker of bone resorption. RESULTS: UBWT fitness readings were better in the EG group than in the PAM group, with no difference in LBWT readings between the groups. UBWT mean power was 8.8% higher in subjects with 25(OH)D3 levels over 22.50 ng/ml and in those with 24,25(OH)2D3 levels over 1.27 ng/ml. Serum CTX levels increased after both tests in the PAM group, with no change in the EG group. PINP levels did not change in either group; however, in PAM subjects with 25(OH)D3 levels above the median, they were higher than those in EG subjects. CONCLUSION: Vitamin D metabolites affect the anaerobic performance and bone turnover markers at rest and after exercise. Further, adaptation to physical activity modulates the effect of anaerobic exercise on bone metabolism markers.

Composición corporal y somatotipo del equipo de gimnasia rítmica, tricampeón del torneo nacional universitario FENAUDE Chile / Body composition and somatotype of the rhythmic gymnastics team, champion for three years of the national university tournament FENAUDE Chile

RESUMEN. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la Composición corporal y somatotipo del equipo de gimnasia rítmica, Tricampeón del torneo nacional universitario FENAUDE Chile. Para el logro de este objetivo se realizó una toma de mediciones antropométricas a las 9 deportistas que participaron del torneouniversitario las cuales tenían edades entre 22,17±1,91años. Se evaluó utilizando el protocolo de marcaje y medición de la International Society for the Avancement in Kine anthropometric (ISAK), y se aplicaron los métodos de Composición Corporal de Deborah Kerr y de Somatotipo de Heath-Carter. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el paquete estadístico IBM SPSS V.18 y adicionalmente, para generar la gráfica de la somatocarta se utilizó una planilla realizada en elprograma Microsoft Excel. Se determinó talla de 159,00±6,19 cm, Talla Sentado 33,38±1,48, Peso 56,98±8,96kg, además del somatotipo predominante para el grupo de deportistas estudiado es el Endomorfo-Mesomorfo (3,88-3,60-1,78) y la composición corporal, los valores medios fueron: Mg= 30,42%, Mm=47,12%; Mr=4,28% Mo=11,68% y Mp=6,51.

ABSTRACT. The objective of this study was to determine the body composition and somatotype of the rhythmic gymnastics team,three-time champion of the national university tournament FENAUDE Chile. To achieve this objective, anthropometric measurements were taken to the 9 athletes who participated in the university tournament, who were between 22.17 ± 1.91 years old. It was evaluated using the marking and measurement protocol of the International Society for the Advancement in Kine anthropometric (ISAK), and the Deborah Kerr Body Composition and Heath-Carter Somatotype methods were applied. For the statistical analysis, the statistical package IBM SPSS V.24 was used and additionally, to generate the graph of the somatochart, a spreadsheet created in the Microsoft Excel program was used. Height of 159.00 ± 6.19 cm was determined, Sitting Height 33.38 ± 1.48, Weight 56.98 ± 8.96kg,in addition to the predominant somatotype for the group of athletes studied is the Endomorph-Mesomorph (3, 88-3.60-1.78) and body composition, the mean values were: Mg = 30.42%, Mm = 47.12%; Mr = 4.28% Mo = 11.68% and Mp = 6.51.

Exercise Types and the Risk of Developing Cognitive Decline in Older Women: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Participation in exercise may be useful for dementia prevention; however, the specific exercise types which may best to reduce the risk of developing cognitive decline have remained unidentified in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationships of specific exercise types with the risk of developing cognitive decline in older women. METHODS: This 1- to 2-year population-based cohort study included 687 community-dwelling older Japanese women without disability, neurological disease, dementia, or cognitive impairment assessed as <24 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at the baseline survey. Developing cognitive decline was defined as a decrease of ≥3 points in the participant's MMSE score during the follow-up. We classified individuals into participation (≥3 months) and non-participation (<3 months) groups for 17 different exercise types. Log-binominal regression analyses were applied to compare risk ratios and confidence intervals of developing cognitive decline between the two groups. RESULTS: Thirty-nine participants (5.7%) developed cognitive decline during the follow-up period. After adjusting for confounders (age, MMSE score, depressive symptoms, body mass index, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, low educational level, and the follow-up period in the baseline survey), those who participated in calisthenics demonstrated a significantly lower risk of developing cognitive decline than those who did not participate in calisthenics. No significant relationships between other exercise types and the risk of developing cognitive decline were found. CONCLUSION: Participation in calisthenics significantly reduced the risk of cognitive decline in community-dwelling older Japanese women, indicating that calisthenics may be a useful type of exercise for promoting dementia prevention.

Especificidad antropométrica y nivel de participación en gimnasia acrobática en función del sexo / Anthropometric specificity and level of participation in acrobatic gymnastics based on sex

Las diferencias de sexo es un aspecto muy presente en el mundo laboral y deportivo. Esto se traduce en la diferenciación de actividades deportivas, determinadas como masculinas o femeninas. De ahí que el objetivo del estudio fue analizar el nivel de participación y características morfológicas en gimnastas de acrobática y ver las diferencias en relación al sexo y rol: portor y ágil. Se analizó la participación en los Campeonatos de España entre 2011 y 2018, y se comparó medidas antropométricas, composición corporal y de proporcionalidad, en función del rol de actuación y sexo. El Comité Autonómico de Ética de Investigación de la Xunta de Galicia (España) aprobó la metodología de trabajo. Los resultados mostraron un porcentaje mucho mayor de participación en función del sexo a favor del sexo femenino en todos los campeonatos analizados. Sin embargo, el peso, índice de masa corporal y el porcentaje muscular no fueron diferentes entre sexos en ninguno de los dos roles. De las 62 variables morfológicas evaluadas, existe un mayor predominio de las diferencias en los portores que en los ágiles en relación al sexo, destacando el porcentaje de grasa.

Sex differences are a very present aspect in the world of work and sports. This translates into the differentiation of sports activities, determined as masculine or feminine. Hence, the aim of the study was to analyze the level of participation and morphological characteristics in acrobatic gymnasts and to see the differences in relation to sex and role: Base and top. Participation in the Spanish Championships between 2011 and 2018 was analyzed, and anthropometric measures, body composition and proportionality were compared, depending on the role of performance and sex. The Autonomous Committee of Research Ethics of the Xunta de Galicia (Spain) approved the work methodology. The results showed a much higher percentage of participation according to sex in favor of the female sex in all the analyzed championships. However, the weight, body mass index and muscle percentage were not different between sexes in either of the two roles. Of the 62 morphological variables evaluated, there is a greater predominance of differences in the bases than in the tops ones in relation to sex, highlighting the percentage of fat.

The effect of lower limb rehabilitation gymnastics on postoperative rehabilitation in elderly patients with femoral shaft fracture: A retrospective case-control study.

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of lower limb rehabilitation gymnastics on postoperative rehabilitation in elderly patients with femoral shaft fracture after undergoing intramedullary nail fixation surgery.We collected medical records of elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years with femoral shaft fracture between 03/2010 and 03/2015 in Longyao County Hospital. Totally, 160 patients were identified and divided into the intervention group (n = 80) and the control group (n = 80). During the postoperative period, the intervention group received lower limb rehabilitation gymnastics treatment for 3 months, but the control group did not. All patients were routinely asked to return hospital for a check in the 1st postoperative week, as well as the 2nd week, the 1st month, and the 3rd month, after surgery. The clinical rehabilitation effect was evaluated by checking lower limb action ability, detecting the lower limb deep venous thrombosis (DVT), scoring muscle strength of quadriceps and visual analog scale (VAS) score, and performing satisfaction survey.At the 1st week and 2nd week after surgery, the clinical rehabilitation effect in the intervention group was better regarding lower limb action ability, lower limb DVT, muscle strength of quadriceps, VAS score, and patient satisfaction, as compared with the control group. However, there was no significant difference at the 1st month and the 3rd month after surgery when comparing the intervention group to the control group.In the early postoperative stage, lower limb rehabilitation gymnastics can effectively improve the recovery of lower limb function, beneficial to reducing postoperative complications such as lower limb DVT and muscle atrophy, and increasing patient satisfaction rate.

The impact of intensive high performance training on adult height of female artistic gymnasts: a retrospective study / O impacto do treinamento de alta intensidade sobre a estatura adulta de ginastas de alto nível: um estudo retrospectivo

Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify the potential impact of the high performance training on the anthropometric and maturational characteristics of female artistic gymnasts and to compare the adult target height with international standards of growth. A sample consisted of 23 elite Brazilian female former gymnasts was evaluated. From a historic retrospective, about 29.56 yrs. ago (average of all) they devoted themselves to the training for 9.3 (2.6) years, with a weekly 24.26 (4.2) training hours, and had been retired from competition around at 13.61 (5.12) years old. From the anthropometric data of the gymnasts (while still competing), their parents and their older sister (1) and younger sister (2), the target height was calculated by Tanner method {[(father’s height -13 cm) + mother’s height] ÷ 2}. Additionally, training history, age of menarche occurrence, and growth classifying in accordance with the international standards was recorded, aimed at comparisons. The average stature shown normal adult stature (NCHS), and some cases surpassed the standard 75th, 90th and 95th percentile. They are higher than their mother (p = 0.039), but not their sister 1 (0.952) or sister 2 (p = 0.998), but the age of menarche was significantly later only than their sisters 1 (p = 0.008) and 2 (p = 0.017). According to the Brazilian percentiles reference (IBGE), the final height of the former gymnasts was always higher of the standard, slightly smaller than their sisters 2 (5th and 10th), but was taller than their mothers and sisters 1. In conclusion, there is no evidence of artistic gymnastics high performance training having adverse effects on the final adult height.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar o potencial impacto do treinamento de alta intensidade sobre as características antropométricas e maturacionais de ex-atletas da ginástica artística feminina e comparar a estatura adulta com padrões internacionais de crescimento. Uma amostra composta de 23 ex-atletas de elite da ginástica artística feminina brasileira foi avaliada. A partir de uma retrospectiva histórica média de 29,56 anos, foi determinado o tempo médio de formação [9,3 (2,6) anos], horas semanais de treinamento [24,26 (4,2)] e tempo após encerramento da carreira competitiva (13,61 ± 5,12 anos). A partir dos dados antropométricos das ginastas (quando ativas), o alvo parental da estatura das ex-atletas, de suas irmãs mais velhas (1) e mais jovens (2) foi calculado pelo método de Tanner {[(Altura do pai - 13 cm) + Altura da mãe] ÷ 2}. Além disso, o histórico de treino, idade de ocorrência da menarca e classificação do crescimento segundo os padrões internacionais, foram registrados para comparações. A estatura média das ex-atletas apresentou normalidade esperada para estatura adulta (NCHS), e em alguns casos ultrapassaram os valores dos percentis 75%, 90% e 95%. As ex-atletas foram maiores do que suas mães (p = 0,039), mas não diferiram da irmã 1 (0,952) ou irmã 2 (p = 0,998). A idade da menarca daquelas foi significantemente mais tardia do que de suas irmãs 1 (p = 0,008) e 2 ( p = 0,017). Em relação às referências brasileiras (IBGE), a altura final das ex-ginastas foi sempre maior do que o padrão nacional, ligeiramente menor do que suas irmãs 2 em alguns momentos (centis 5 e 10), mas eram mais altas do que suas mães e irmãs 1. Em conclusão, não há evidências de que o treinamento de alto impacto da ginástica artística resulte em efeitos adversos sobre a estatura adulta final das atletas.

Along paths converging to Bengt Saltin's early contributions in exercise physiology.

A fascinating chain of events led in 1941 to the formation of the Department of Physiology at the Royal Gymnastic Central Institute (GCI) in Stockholm, Sweden. Erik Hohwü Christensen, from the scientifically advanced Lindhard School in Copenhagen became its first professor. A central research question for him concerned determining the limiting factors for maximal physical performance in man. This was the academic setting where the sports interested medical student Bengt Saltin was introduced to exercise physiology. In the summer of 1959, he became involved in a study on intermittent vs continuous running. A doctoral project, with Per-Olof Åstrand as his tutor, resulted in 1964 as the thesis "Aerobic work capacity and circulation at exercise in man. With special reference to the effect of prolonged exercise and/or heat exposure". In the decade that followed, Saltin continued along that path. However, he also added a vital research line involving pioneering studies on skeletal muscles in the exercising man, a series of novel studies on the physiological demands in various sports, and studies of the effects of physical training within the general population.

A instrução do professor na apresentação de tarefas no ensino de ginástica artística / Teacher instruction in the artistic gymnastics / Instrucción en la tarea de la formación en las gimnasia artística

O presente estudo objetivou caracterizar a instrução na apresentação das tarefas da Ginástica Artística utilizando três estratégias instrucionais: instrução Direta, Ensino aos Pares e Aprendizagem Cooperativa. Os dados foram coletados através de filmagem das aulas com som e imagem. Recorreu-se à análise observatória. Os tipos de prática foram: informação, refinamento, extensão e aplicação. As categorias aplicadas basearam-se na explicitação da instrução e no tipo de prática. Resultados: a Instrução Direta foi a mais aplicada (80%); o tipo de prática individual foi de 39%; a explicitação da instrução focalizou o conteúdo (82,5%), e a categoria combinada(objetivo geral, situação e critério forma) foi a mais frequente (26,1%). Concluímos que a instrução e a escolha da estratégia de ensino resultarão na melhoria da qualidade da docência.

The study aimed to characterize the statement in the presentation of tasks in artistic gymnastics instructional strategies using Direct Instruction, the Peer Education,and Cooperative Learning. To collect data we used video taping of lessons mating sound and image. Recourse observatory analysis was validated. The types of informationwere practical, refinement, extension and application. The categories appliedwere based on explicit instruction and type of practice. Results direct instructionwas more applied (80%), type of individual practice (39%); explicit instruction focused content (82.5%), combined general purpose category, location and test themost frequent (26.1%). We conclude the instruction and the choice of teaching strategy will result in better teaching.

El objetivo del estudio fue caracterizar la declaración en la presentación delas tareas en la gimnasia artística con tres estrategias de enseñanza de instrucción directa, la educación de pares, el aprendizaje cooperativo. Larecogida de datos a través de la grabación de los sonidos de apareamiento lecciones y análisis imagen. Para se utilizó el análisis de tipo validados. Paraobservatorio de las variables de práctica se utilizaron tareas de instrucciónde la información, el refinamiento, la extensión y aplicación. Presentaciónde la tarea, las categorías aplicadas se basan en la enseñanza explícita y el tipo de práctica. Resultados de la instrucción directa fue más aplicada(80%), el tipo de práctica individual (39%), la enseñanza explícita decontenido enfocado (82,5%), combinado categoría de propósito general, laubicación y probar el más frecuente (26,1%). Llegamos a la conclusión de lainstrucción y la elección de la estrategia de enseñanza se traducirá en unamejor enseñanza.

Protective role of 17-ß-estradiol towards IL-6 leukocyte expression induced by intense training in young female athletes.

Exercise performed at a competitive level could deeply modify the immune system and the cytokine response of athletes. In this report, we demonstrated that young elite female artistic gymnasts (n = 16; age: 9-15 years) showed an increase of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) mRNA expression in blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), in comparison to girls performing the same sport at a recreational level (n = 16; age: 10-15 years). The increase of IL-6 and TNF-α mRNAs appeared to be directly linked to the intensity and duration of the training. Moreover, in elite athletes engaged in artistic gymnastics or in synchronised swimming (n =34; age: 9-15 years), IL-6 gene expression appeared to be modulated by the levels of circulating oestrogens: pre-pubertal athletes (n = 20; age: 11 ± 1 years) revealed a higher increase in IL-6 than pubertal athletes (n = 14; age: 14 ± 1.6 years). In pre-pubertal athletes, body mass index (BMI) percentile was inversely correlated with the increase of both IL-6 and TNF-α. The consequence of these events was the shift of the cytokine profile towards a pro-inflammatory status. These modifications, induced by training performed at an elite level, might negatively affect the growth of female children athletes.

Morphologic bilateral differences of top Level gymnasts / Diferencias morfológicas bilaterales de gimnastas de nivel superior

Gymnastics is a basic sport, which was developed under a philosophic idea "Mens sana in corpore sano". Such an idea supposes harmonized body and soul. We can also understand under such a terminus the symmetricity of the athletic body. Aim of our investigation was to determine whether gymnast's body is symmetric. On the sample of 40 top level gymnasts (average age of 23 years) who were attending World Cup Competition in Ljubljana in the year 2000 we measured 13 anthropometric characteristics ­ joint diameters, circumferences and skinfold thicknesses on the left and right side. While there were no differences between the left and right leg parameters, there were some significant differences between the left and right arm measures. We found significant differences in elbow diameter, circumference of forearm, and skin fold thicknesses of triceps and biceps brachii. It is beneficial for coaches to control the symmetry of their athletes as the differences may be a sign of single-sided arm overload and predict acute or chronic injuries.

La gimnasia es un deporte básico, que se desarrolló bajo la idea filosófica "Mens sana in corpore sano". Tal idea supone armonizar el cuerpo y el alma. También la podemos entender bajo el término simetricidad del cuerpo atlético. El objetivo de nuestra investigación fue determinar si el cuerpo de una gimnasta es simétrico. Sobre una muestra de 40 gimnastas de alto nivel (promedio de edad de 23 años) que asistían a la Competencia de la Copa Mundial en Ljubljana en el año 2000 se midieron 13 características antropométricas, diámetros de las articulaciones, perímetros y pliegues cutáneos en los lados izquierdo y derecho. Si bien, no hubo diferencias entre los parámetros de la pierna izquierda y la derecha, hay algunas diferencias significativas entre las medidas del brazo izquierdo y derecho. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el diámetro del codo, la circunferencia del antebrazo y grosor del pliegue cutáneo del tríceps y del bíceps braquial. Es beneficioso para los entrenadores controlar la simetría de sus atletas, ya que las diferencias pueden ser un signo de sobrecarga del miembro de un lado, y predecir las lesiones agudas o crónicas.

Aptidão física e ocorrência de quedas em idosos praticantes de exercícios físicos / Physical fitness and incidence of falls in elderly practitioners of physical exercise

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar a associação entre as aptidões físicas e a ocorrência de quedas em idosos praticantes de exercícios físicos. Selecionaram-se, de forma intencional, 230 idosos (60 anos ou mais) praticantes de exercícios físicos. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, ocorrência de quedas no último ano e as aptidões físicas que envolvem a avaliação dos membros inferiores (força dos membros inferiores, flexibilidade dos membros inferiores, agilidade e o equilíbrio dinâmico, e resistência aeróbica) da bateria de teste para idosos Senior Fitness Test. A análise dos dados deu-se através de estatística descritiva e inferencial (teste Qui-Quadrado e Regressão Logística Binária), com nível de significância de p=0,05. Entre os resultados, destaca-se que a ocorrência de quedas no último ano entre os idosos foi de 22,2%. De acordo com a razão de odds, a chance de sofrer quedas foi 2,66 vezes maior nos idosos com classificação "Ruim" da força de membros inferiores (p= 0,022) quando comparados aqueles cuja classificação foi boa. Conclui-se que a falta de força nos membros inferiores parece ser um importante fator de risco para a ocorrência de quedas entre idosos praticantes de exercícios físicos. Assim, programas de exercícios físicos devem enfatizar o fortalecimento muscular, especialmente dos membros inferiores, para que se previnam as quedas e suas consequências nessa população.

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical fitness and the occurrence of falls in elderly practitioners of exercise. It was selected intentionally 230 elderly (60 years or more) practitioners of exercise. We collected demographic data, occurrence of falls in the last year and the physical fitness that involve the assessment of the lower limbs (strength of lower limbs, lower limbs flexibility, agility and dynamic balance, resistance aerobic) of the test battery for older Senior Fitness Test. Analysis of data was by descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-Square and Binary Logistic Regression) with significance level of p = 0,05. Among the results, it is emphasized that the incidence of falls in the last year among the elderly was 22,2%. According to the odds ratios, the chance of falls was 2,66 times higher in the elderly rated "Poor" of lower limb strength (p = 0,022) when compared with those whose rating was good. It is concluded that the lack of strength of the lower limbs seems to be an important risk factor for the occurrence of falls among elderly practitioners of exercise. Thus, physical exercise programs should emphasize muscle strengthening, especially of the lower limbs, in order to prevent falls and their consequences in this population.

In peripubertal girls, artistic gymnastics improves areal bone mineral density and femoral bone geometry without affecting serum OPG/RANKL levels.

UNLABELLED: Peripubertal artistic gymnasts display elevated areal bone mineral density at various bone sites, despite delayed menarche and a high frequency of menstrual disorders, factors that may compromise bone health. The concomitant improvement in femoral bone geometry and strength suggested that this type of physical activity might have favourable clinical impact. INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of artistic gymnastics (GYM) on areal bone mineral density (aBMD), femoral bone geometry and bone markers and its relationship with the osteoprotegerin (OPG)/rank-ligand (RANKL) system in peripubertal girls. METHODS: Forty-six girls (age 10-17.2 years) were recruited for this study: 23 elite athletes in the GYM group (training 12-30 h/week, age at start of training 5.3 years) and 23 age-matched (± 6 months; leisure physical activity ≤ 3 h/week) controls (CON). The aBMD at whole body, total proximal femur, lumbar spine, mid-radius and skull was determined using dual-X-ray absorptiometry. Hip structural analysis (HSA software) was applied at the femur to evaluate cross-sectional area (CSA, cm(2)), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI, cm(4)), and the section modulus (Z, cm(3)) and buckling ratio at neck, intertrochanteric region and shaft. Markers of bone turnover and OPG/RANKL levels were also analysed. RESULTS: GYM had higher (5.5-16.4%) non-adjusted aBMD and adjusted aBMD for age, fat-free soft tissue and fat mass at all bone sites, skull excepted and the difference increased with age. In the three femoral regions adjusted for body weight and height, CSA (12.5-18%), CSMI (14-18%), Z (15.5-18.6%) and mean cortical thickness (13.6-21%) were higher in GYM than CON, while the buckling ratio (21-27.1%) was lower. Bone markers decreased with age in both groups and GYM presented higher values than CON only in the postmenarchal period. A similar increase in RANKL with age without OPG variation was observed for both groups. CONCLUSION: GYM is associated not only with an increase in aBMD but also an improvement in bone geometry associated with an increase in bone remodelling. These adaptations seem to be independent of the OPG/RANKL system.

Altered antioxidant and trace-element status in adolescent female gymnasts.

Physical activity is associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species and may lead to decreased levels of plasma antioxidants and increased oxidant stress. Some studies have reported that antioxidant supplements can reduce the consequences of oxidative stress during exercise. In this study the authors aimed to assess the chronic effects of exercise on endogenous serum antioxidant enzyme concentrations. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured in adolescent girls who were either competitive gymnasts or sedentary controls. The relationship between age, body-mass index, dietary intake, trace-element status, and serum GPx and SOD was determined. The participants in the study were part of a 3-yr longitudinal investigation of exercise and peak bone-mass development in 38 competitive gymnasts and 40 healthy sedentary adolescent females 8-17 yr of age. Serum GPx and SOD were measured using colorimetric assays, and trace elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The mean serum GPx concentrations were significantly higher in the gymnasts than in the sedentary females (157 ± 11.1 vs. 126 ± 8.8 U/ml, p < .05). In contrast, serum SOD concentrations were significantly lower in the gymnasts than in the sedentary group (7.24 ± 2.6 vs. 8.57 ± 2.3 U/ml, p < .05). Serum selenium, zinc, and copper were higher in the physically active group than in the inactive group (0.89 ± 0.03, 10.86 ± 0.39, 14.50 ± 0.50 vs. 0.81 ± 0.03, 10.32 ± 0.28, and 14.38 ± 0.42 µmol/L, respectively), although only serum selenium reached statistical significance (p < .05). The findings show that young female gymnasts have an altered antioxidant enzyme profile compared with their less physically active peers.