Early absorption sources of caffeine can be a useful strategy for improving female table tennis players-specific performance.

BACKGROUND: The consumption of fast absorption sources containing caffeine, such as caffeinated gum and coffee mouth rinsing, has been considered a practical nutritional strategy among athletes. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of early absorption sources containing caffeine on the performance of female table tennis players. METHOD: Eighteen female table tennis players randomly participated in this randomized, double-blind, and crossover designed study. Before starting the test, the participants attended a familiarization session. In each test session, participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions including chewing caffeinated gum (CG, n = 6), coffee mouth rinsing (CMR, n = 6) and placebo capsule (PLA, n = 6). All participants consumed caffeine with an average dose of ∼3 to 4.5 mg·kg-1. The one-week interval was considered a washout period for each condition. Each test session included measurement of functional, skill and cognitive tests. Skill tests included serve, forehand drive, backhand push and counter tests. The Cognitive function measured by color recognition test, and functional tests included agility, hand movement speed, the explosive power of the upper body and lower body, hand-eye coordination and hand grip strength tests. The collected data were analyzed (with SPSS Windows software) by repeated measure ANOVA analysis and Bonferroni post hoc test at P ≤ 0.05 level. RESULTS: The findings of the present study illustrated that CG and CMR increased significantly agility and reduced the amounts of errors in the cognitive test compared to PLA (p < 0.05), While there was no significant difference between CG and CMR (p > 0.05). Also, CG and CMR compared to PLA and CMR compared to CG rose significantly hand movement speed and movement speed (p < 0.05), and CMR compared to PLA increased significantly hand-eye coordination, isometric hand strength, service accuracy and forehand drive (p < 0.05). However, CG compared to PLA and CMR had no significant effect on hand-eye coordination, isometric hand strength, service accuracy and forehand drive (p > 0.05). In addition, CG and CMR enhanced significantly the explosive power of the lower body compared to PLA (p < 0.05), While there was no significant difference between CG and CMR (p > 0.05). Also, CG and CMR compared to PLA and CG compared to CMR had no significant effect on the explosive power of the upper body, backhand, and counter skills (p > 0.05). Furthermore, CG increased significantly accuracy in the service test compared to PLA (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: According to the results, it seems that early absorption sources of caffeine (CMR and CG) are efficient strategies for improving the specific performance of female table tennis players. However, allegedly CMR and CG have a better effect on functional and cognitive tests compared to skill tests.

Effects of Yoga Training Applied with Telerehabilitation on Core Stabilization and Physical Fitness in Junior Tennis Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the effects of yoga training applied with telerehabilitation on core stability, and strength, balance, flexibility, upper extremity stability, body awareness, and quality of life in tennis players aged 6-18 years. METHODS: Forty tennis players were randomly divided into two groups to participate in this study. The control group (n = 20) continued tennis training and was informed about the importance of the core region. The yoga group (n = 20) received yoga training with telerehabilitation 2 days a week for 8 weeks. Athletes were evaluated with sport-specific core muscle strength and stability tests, the back scratch test, the sit and reach test, the flamingo balance test, the y-balance test (lower quarter), the upper extremity closed kinetic chain stability test, the SF-36, and body awareness questionnaires. Measurements have been done in the tennis club before and after the 8 weeks of training. RESULTS: A significant increase was determined in core strength and stability, sit and reach, back scratch test, upper extremity stability, and body awareness questionnaire in the yoga group (p < 0.001). Flamingo and Y balance test results were significant (p < 0.002). Positive improvements were found in SF-36s energy-fatigue level, mental well-being, social function (p < 0.042), pain (p < 0.005), and general health (p < 0.001). A significant increase was observed in the core strength measurement mean score in the control group (p < 0.018). Sit and reach test, flamingo test, and body awareness questionnaire were found to be significant after the intervention (p < 0.001). Significant improvements were found in the pain (p < 0.042), and mental well-being (p < 0.001) sub-parameters of the SF-36. CONCLUSION: In the study, it was concluded that yoga training applied with telerehabilitation in tennis players aged 6-18 has a positive effect on core strength, and stabilization, physical fitness parameters, quality of life, and body awareness.Mit dieser Studie sollten die Auswirkungen von Yogatraining in Verbindung mit Telerehabilitation auf Rumpfstabilität, Kraft, Gleichgewicht, Flexibilität, Stabilität der oberen Extremität, Körperwahrnehmung und Lebensqualität bei Tennisspielern im Alter von 6 bis 18 Jahren untersucht werden.Vierzig Tennisspieler wurden randomisiert in zwei Gruppen aufgeteilt und nahmen an der Studie teil. Die Kontrollgruppe (n = 20) führte das Tennistraining fort und wurde über die Bedeutung der Rumpfregion aufgeklärt. Die Yoga-Gruppe (n = 20) erhielt an 2 Tagen pro Woche über 8 Wochen ein Yogatraining mittels Telerehabilitation. Die Sportler wurden mittels sportartspezifischer Tests zur Kraft und Stabilität der Rumpfmuskulatur, dem Back-Scratch-Test, dem Sit-and-Reach-Test, dem Flamingo-Balance-Test, dem Y-Balance-Test (unteres Viertel), dem Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test sowie dem SF-36 und dem Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung beurteilt. Die Messungen wurden im Tennisclub vor und nach dem 8-wöchigen Training durchgeführt.In der Yoga-Gruppe wurde ein signifikanter Anstieg der Rumpfkraft und -stabilität sowie im Sit-and-Reach-Test, Back-Scratch-Test, der Stabilität der oberen Extremität und beim Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung festgestellt (p < 0,001). Die Ergebnisse des Flamingo-Balance-Tests und des Y-Balance-Tests fielen signifikant aus (p < 0,002). Verbesserungen zeigten sich beim SF-36-Score für Energieverlust und Erschöpfung, psychisches Wohlbefinden, soziale Funktion (p < 0,042), Schmerzen (p < 0,005) und allgemeine Gesundheit (p < 0,001). In der Kontrollgruppe war ein signifikanter Anstieg des mittleren Scores der Rumpfkraftmessung zu beobachten (p < 0,018). Der Sit-and-Reach-Test, der Flamingo-Test und der Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung fielen nach der Intervention signifikant aus (p < 0,001). Bei den Unterparametern Schmerz und psychisches Wohlbefinden des SF-36 wurden signifikante Verbesserungen festgestellt (p < 0,042 bzw. p < 0,001).Die Studie kam zu der Schlussfolgerung, dass Yoga-Training bei Anwendung mittels Telerehabilitation bei Tennisspielern im Alter von 6 bis 18 Jahren einen positiven Effekt auf die Rumpfkraft und -stabilisierung, die Parameter der körperlichen Fitness, die Lebensqualität und die Körperwahrnehmung hat.

[Tennis Ball Massage Therapy in Clinical Nurses: Effect on Relieving Musculoskeletal Disorders and Enhancing Self-Efficacy].

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders are a common occupational disease. The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among nurses is estimated at 65.1%-87.3%, with neck, shoulders, and lower back being most affected. PURPOSE: To explore the effectiveness of tennis ball massage therapy in alleviating muscle soreness and improving pain relief self-efficacy. METHODS: In this quasi-experimental, single-group, pre- and post-test study, 216 nurses in regional teaching hospitals were screened for neck, shoulder, and back pain. Based on the unit attributes, systematic random sampling was employed to recruit 36 nurses to participate in a four-week "fighting pain" intervention program. The "Pain Visual Scale" and "Pain Relief Self-efficacy Scale" were used as the assessment tools. One-way and two-way repeated measure analysis of variance, a signed ranks test, and the Friedman test were used to assess longitudinal change in the data. RESULTS: Shoulders were the most reported site of muscle pain (94.4%), followed by the neck (88.9%) and the upper back (55.6%). The locations of neck, shoulder, and back pain were interacted differently with the four measurement times (F = 2.69, p = .020). In the post hoc comparison, pain relief effectiveness was most significant in the third posttest, followed by the second. The pain relief was significantly different between the pre-test and the third post-test (t = 6.39, 8.68, 6.96, p < .001). There was a significant difference before and after the intervention of the pain relief self-efficacy (F = 53.49, p < .001). The post hoc comparison results revealed that self-efficacy was lowest at pretest and highest at the third posttest. Significant differences were observed between the pre-test and third post-test at the end of the intervention (t = -10.25, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS / IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study shows that tennis ball massage can improve neck, shoulder, and back pain in nurses and improve pain relief self-efficacy. Tennis ball massage is easy to implement, has no time and space restrictions, and requires no assistance to operate. This equipment can be used to effectively reduce muscle pain, improve the comfort of performing regular activities, and raise work efficiency, reducing the negative impact of muscle pain on work.

Effects of dietary supplementation on the training of female tennis players in hot climates / Efeitos da suplementação dietética sobre o treino das atletas tenistas em climas quentes / Efectos de la suplementación dietética en el entrenamiento de las atletas tenistas en climas cálidos

ABSTRACT Introduction A tennis match may last up to four hours with long intervals between moves of medium to high exercise intensity for 10 minutes and aerobic characteristic that requires specific sources of energy. Inappropriate diets can negatively impact sports performance and delay the recovery phase. Fortified wheat germ protein powder has the supplementation characteristics required in aerobic activities, although there are no practical studies on its impacts on the work performance of female tennis athletes. Objective Explore the influence of two weeks of training in a warm environment combined with nutritional intervention on the performance of female tennis players. Methods It was observed by testing the immunological indices of elite female tennis players while training their changes and their effects on nutritional intervention. Results The increase in serum CK activity was closely related to the amount of exercise. Many studies have shown that serum CK activity increased significantly after strenuous exercise, and the serum CK value of subjects in the test group was significantly lower than that of the control group, showing better adaptability to exercise. Compared with before the nutritional intervention, the athletes' weight decreased slightly, and the body fat percentage decreased significantly after the nutritional intervention. Compared with before nutritional intervention, sugar and salt supplements in athletes were significantly increased (P<0.05). Sweating rate, hydration rate, and hydration/sudden rate were also significantly increased (P<0.05). Conclusion Strengthening wheat germ protein supplementation may improve the nutritional albumin level in female tennis players, manifested in blood levels and immune function performance. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução Partidas de tênis podem durar até quatro horas com intervalos longos entre jogadas de intensidade de exercício média a alta por 10 minutos, características aeróbicas que requerem fontes específicas de energia. Dietas inapropriadas podem impactar negativamente o desempenho esportivo e retardar o período de recuperação. O pó de proteína de germe de trigo fortificado apresenta as características de suplementação requeridas nas atividades aeróbicas, embora não haja estudos práticos sobre seus impactos no desempenho profissional de atletas do tênis feminino. Objetivo Explorar a influência no treinamento de duas semanas em ambiente quente combinado com a intervenção nutricional sobre o desempenho das atletas tenistas. Métodos Ao testar os índices imunológicos das tenistas de elite durante o treinamento, observamos suas mudanças e seus efeitos na intervenção nutricional. Resultados O aumento da atividade de CK sérico esteve intimamente relacionado à quantidade de exercício. Muitos estudos mostraram que a atividade do soro CK aumentou significativamente após o exercício extenuante, e o valor sérico CK dos sujeitos no grupo de teste foi significativamente menor do que o do grupo controle, mostrando melhor adaptabilidade ao exercício. Em comparação com antes da intervenção nutricional, o peso dos atletas diminuiu ligeiramente e o percentual de gordura corporal diminuiu significativamente após a intervenção nutricional. Em comparação com antes da intervenção nutricional, os suplementos de açúcar e sal em atletas foram significativamente incrementados (P<0,05). A taxa de sudorese, a taxa de hidratação e a taxa de hidratação/sudorese também aumentaram significativamente (P<0,05). Conclusão Fortalecer a suplementação com proteína de germe de trigo pode melhorar o nível nutricional de albumina nas tenistas, manifestadamente nos níveis sanguíneos e desempenho da função imunológica. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Los partidos de tenis pueden durar hasta cuatro horas con largos intervalos entre jugadas de intensidad de ejercicio media a alta durante 10 minutos, características aeróbicas que requieren fuentes de energía específicas. Las dietas inadecuadas pueden afectar negativamente al rendimiento deportivo y retrasar el periodo de recuperación. La proteína de germen de trigo en polvo enriquecida presenta las características de suplementación requeridas en las actividades aeróbicas, aunque no existen estudios prácticos sobre sus impactos en el rendimiento profesional de las atletas de tenis. Objetivo Explorar la influencia de dos semanas de entrenamiento en un ambiente cálido combinado con una intervención nutricional en el rendimiento de las atletas de tenis. Métodos Mediante el análisis de los índices inmunológicos de las tenistas de élite durante el entrenamiento, observamos sus cambios y sus efectos en la intervención nutricional. Resultados El aumento de la actividad de la CK en suero estaba estrechamente relacionado con la cantidad de ejercicio. Muchos estudios han demostrado que la actividad de la CK en suero aumenta significativamente después de un ejercicio extenuante, y el valor de la CK en suero de los sujetos del grupo de prueba fue significativamente menor que el del grupo de control, lo que demuestra una mejor adaptabilidad al ejercicio. En comparación con antes de la intervención nutricional, el peso de los atletas disminuyó ligeramente y el porcentaje de grasa corporal se redujo significativamente después de la intervención nutricional. En comparación con antes de la intervención nutricional, los suplementos de azúcar y sal en las atletas aumentaron significativamente (P<0,05). La tasa de sudoración, la tasa de hidratación y la tasa de hidratación/sudoración también aumentaron significativamente (P<0,05). Conclusión El refuerzo de la suplementación con proteínas de germen de trigo puede mejorar el nivel nutricional de albúmina en las jugadoras de tenis, manifestándose en los niveles sanguíneos y en el rendimiento de la función inmunitaria. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Effects of Mindfulness for Performance Programme on Actual Performance in Ecological Sport Context: Two Studies in Basketball and Table Tennis.

Mindfulness For Performance is a programme that has been developed over 15 years. It aims to help athletes maintain effective attentional focus regardless of the disruptive sensations and thoughts induced by the performance situation. It is inspired by Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Acceptance Commitment Therapy programmes and has been adapted to the specificities of sport. It is composed of three steps: (a) psychoeducation and identification of the focus of attention, (b) mindfulness and acceptance training, and (c) integrating skills acquired into training and competition. This article reports the effects of MFP in two studies in national basketball players and in young table tennis players. The first study showed that mindfulness skills and free-throw accuracy during basketball games increased more in the experimental group than in the control group. Table tennis results revealed that participants who showed the highest percentage of adherence to the programme benefited more from MFP training in terms of performance outcome (i.e., accumulated points collected from published results compared with the baseline phase) than participants who showed weaker percentages of adherence to the programme. Both studies provided some evidence on the effects of MFP on specific performance indicators (i.e., free-throw accuracy in basketball and ranking points in table tennis), but this needs to be confirmed by further research measuring other relevant performance indicators. The impact and conditions of adherence also deserve more consideration.

Effects of myofascial release with tennis ball on spasticity and motor functions of upper limb in patients with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Impaired motor function and upper extremity spasticity are common concerns in patients after stroke. It is essential to plan therapeutic techniques to recover from the stroke. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of myofascial release with the tennis ball on spasticity and motor functions of the upper extremity in patients with chronic stroke. METHODS: Twenty-two chronic stroke patients (male-16, female-6) were selected to conduct this study. Two groups were formed: the control group (n=11) which included conventional physiotherapy only and the experimental group (n=11) which included conventional physiotherapy along with tennis ball myofascial release - in both groups interventions were performed for 6 sessions (35 minutes/session) per week for a total of 4 weeks. The conventional physiotherapy program consisted of active and passive ROM exercises, positional stretch exercises, resistance strength training, postural control exercises, and exercises to improve lower limb functions. All patients were evaluated with a modified Ashworth scale for spasticity of upper limb muscles (biceps brachii, pronator teres, and the long finger flexors) and a Fugl-Meyer assessment scale for upper limb motor functions before and after 4 weeks. Nonparametric (Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test) tests were used to analyze data statistically. This study has been registered on clinicaltrial.gov (ID: NCT05242679). RESULTS: A significant improvement (P < .05) was observed in the spasticity of all 3 muscles in both groups. For upper limb motor functions, significant improvement (P < .05) was observed in the experimental group only. When both groups were compared, greater improvement (P < .05) was observed in the experimental group in comparison to the control group for both spasticity of muscles and upper limb motor functions. CONCLUSION: Myofascial release performed with a tennis ball in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy has more beneficial effects on spasticity and motor functions of the upper extremity in patients with chronic stroke compared to conventional therapy alone.

How to play under pressure: EEG monitoring of mental activation training in a professional tennis player.

The aim of this study was to monitor the mental activation training during match pressure imageries using a protocol with (MT) and without mental training (wMT) performed in the office and on the tennis court based on the analysis of heart rate, brain waves and subjective ratings in a professional tennis player with high imagery experience. Results showed that both in the office (MTo/wMTo) and on the court (MTc/wMTc) the tennis player's heart rate increased in the match pressure imagery (I.3-8), being higher in the MTo. It decreased in the pressure imagery using mental tools (I.8-13) in the MT. In the case of brainwaves, beta and gamma waves increased in the match pressure imagery (I.3-8); while beta, gamma, delta and theta waves decreased in the pressure imagery using mental tools (I.8-13), being higher in the office. Entropy decreased in the match pressure imagery (I.3-8), being higher in the MTo. It increased in the pressure imagery using mental tools (I.8-13), being higher in the MTo. Regarding subjective ratings, the tennis player felt the pressure in the match pressure imagery, being higher in MT. In the pressure imagery using mental tools he regulated the activation to feel it at an optimal level (7). In the imagery reality, the olfactory and gustatory dimensions were the most difficult to feel in both imageries.

Playing under pressure: EEG monitoring of activation in professional tennis players.

The aim of this study was to monitor the activation during a neutral situation imagery (NSI) and a pressure situation imagery (PSI), based on the analysis of heart rate, brain waves and subjective ratings in athletes. The sample was made up of sixteen professional tennis players. Imagery protocols consisted of 3 phases; the first and the third involved being focused on their deep breathing (2 min.); the second, in the NSI, first service routine (17 s.-1 min. 21 s.) and in the PSI, a match pressure situation (2 min. 10 s.). Results showed that both NSI and PSI increased heart rate. This increase was higher in the PSI and its highest point was at the maximum pressure moment: interval 5-6. In the case of brain waves, both NSI and PSI caused a decrease in gamma wave activity (intervals 3-8). In the PSI, there was also an increase in gamma waves in interval 5-6, the maximum pressure moment. Entropy was lower in the NSI. In regard to subjective ratings, in the psychological skills there were only significant differences in the PSI between pre- and post-activation at the during moment (pressure). In the imagery reality, olfactory and gustatory dimensions were the most difficult to perceive as real in the NSI and only the olfactory in the PSI.

Recovery during and after a simulated multi-day tennis tournament: Combining active recovery, stretching, cold-water immersion, and massage interventions.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a mixed-method recovery intervention (MMR) consisting of active recovery, stretching, cold-water immersion, and massage on physical, technical, physiological, and perceptual recovery during and after a five-day simulated tennis tournament. Nine competitive male tennis players (age, 24.6±4.2 years) with national ranking positions (German Tennis Federation) and Universal Tennis Ratings between approximately 11-13 participated in two singles tennis tournaments, which were separated by a three-month washout period. During the tournaments, participants played five two-and-a-half-hour competitive singles tennis match on five consecutive days. For the assignment to one of two groups, athletes were matched into homogeneous pairs according to their ranking. Then, within each pair, the players were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group performed MMR during the first tournament, whereas the other group used passive recovery (PAS). During the second tournament, recovery conditions were interchanged. Measures of physical and technical performance as well as physiological and perceptual responses (heart rate, blood lactate concentration, perceived exertion) were recorded during match-play sessions. Furthermore, muscle soreness, perceived recovery state, blood markers, countermovement jump height (CMJ), and repeated sprint ability (RSA) were determined before, during, and after the five-day tournament periods. Results showed significant changes over time (P < 0.05) in muscle soreness, perceived recovery state, creatine kinase, c-reactive protein, insulin-like growth factor 1, and countermovement jump height. However, no significant differences or recovery strategy x time interactions were noted either for tennis-specific performance (e.g. number of total points won) or any other of the measured parameters between MMR and PAS (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the repeated use of MMR during and after a five-day tennis tournament did not affect match performance, match load, or recovery from repeated days of tennis match play.

Acute Beetroot Juice Supplementation Does Not Improve Match-Play Activity in Professional Tennis Players.

ObjectiveBeetroot juice is a source of dietary nitrate (NO3-) recognized as a potential ergogenic aid to enhance tolerance during endurance exercise of submaximal-to-maximal intensity. However, little is known about the effects of beetroot juice on exercise performance in intermittent sports such as tennis. The present study aimed to determine the effect of acute beetroot juice supplementation on movement patterns during a competitive tennis match in professional players.MethodsIn a double-blind and randomized experiment, nine professional tennis players performed two experimental trials 3 h after ingesting either 70 mL of a commercially-available concentrated beetroot juice (6.4 mmol NO3-) or placebo (0.005 mmol NO3-). In each experimental trial, players completed a 3-set tennis match and two performance tests (i.e., serve speed and isometric handgrip strength) before and after the match. Match-play running performance was recorded using wearable GPS and accelerometer units.ResultsIn comparison to the placebo trial, the acute beetroot juice supplementation did not modify any match-play running performance (p = 0.178 to 0.997, d = 0.01 to 0.42). Furthermore, beetroot juice supplementation did not alter the pre-to-post match change in serve speed (p = 0.663, ηp2 = 0.03) or isometric handgrip strength (p = 0.219, ηp2 = 0.18).Conclusions: The current results indicated that acute ingestion of a commercialized shot of nitrate-rich beetroot juice (70 mL containing 6.4 mmol of NO3-) did not produce any performance benefit on tennis matchplay. Thus, acute beetroot juice supplementation seems an ergogenic aid with little value to enhance physical performance in professional tennis players.

The effects of kinesiology treatment on morphological characteristics of top table tennis players with disabilities / Efectos del tratamiento de kinesiología en las características morfológicas de los mejores jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidades

SUMMARY: Sports results of table tennis players with disabilities depend on the functionality level, but also on morphological characteristics. There is an increased risk of obesity in these athletes with disability due to a reduced level of locomotor functionality. The hitherto practice showed that leading table tennis players with disabilities in Serbia did not have an additional kinesiology treatment implemented as part of their training process, which would encourage both strengthening and flexibility of muscle groups relevant for the efficacy of table tennis game, and reduction of body mass and voluminosity. The goal of this paper is to apply an additional kinesiology treatment and determine its effect of on the morphological characteristics of leading table tennis players with disabilities. Eight representatives, table tennis players with disabilities, both male and female, aged between 23 and 52, were included in the additional kinesiology treatment that lasted for nine months. The measures of longitudinal skeleton dimensionality, body mass and volume, subcutaneous adipose tissue and body mass index were analyzed. In order to establish the effects of kinesiology treatment Student's t-test was used, while the results were processed by means of a statistical package SPSS, version 14.0. The values were estimated at p < 0.05 significance level. Male respondents demonstrated statistically significant changes in biceps skinfold (p = 0.05). In the case of female respondents no statistically significant difference was observed in anthropometric space. The additional kinesiology treatment indicates a trend towards reduced voluminosity and body mass of both male and female respondents, but not at a statistically significant level, which is probably the result of an insufficient number of respondents. Continued additional kinesiology treatment should be included in the training process of male and female table tennis players with disabilities, which has not been the case up until now.

RESUMEN: Los resultados deportivos de los jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidad dependen del nivel de funcionalidad, pero también de las características morfológicas. Existe un mayor riesgo de obesidad en estos atletas con discapacidad debido a un nivel reducido de funcionalidad locomotora. La práctica hasta ahora mostró que los principales jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidades en Serbia no cuentan con un tratamiento de kinesiología adicional, implementado como parte de su proceso de entrenamiento, que fomentaría tanto el fortalecimiento como la flexibilidad de los grupos musculares relevantes para el juego de tenis de mesa, y la reducción de masa corporal y voluminosidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue aplicar un tratamiento kinesiológico adicional y determinar su efecto sobre las características morfológicas de los principales jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidad. Ocho representantes, jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidad, tanto hombres como mujeres, con edades entre 23 y 52 años, fueron incluidos en el tratamiento adicional de kinesiología que tuvo una duración de nueve meses. Se analizaron las medidas de dimensionalidad esquelética longitudinal, masa y volumen cor- poral, tejido adiposo subcutáneo e índice de masa corporal. Para establecer los efectos del tratamiento kinesiológico se utilizó la prueba t de Student, mientras que los resultados se procesaron mediante el paquete estadístico SPSS, versión 14.0. Los valores se estimaron a un nivel de significación p < 0,05. Los hombres encuestados demostraron cambios estadísticamente significativos en el pliegue cutáneo del bíceps (p = 0,05). En el caso de las mujeres encuestadas no se observó diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el espacio antropométrico. El tratamiento de kinesiología adicional indica una tendencia hacia la reducción de la voluminosidad y la masa corporal de los encuestados masculinos y femeninos, pero no a un nivel estadísticamente significativo, lo que probablemente sea el resultado de un menor número de encuestados. El tratamiento kinesiológico continuo debe incluirse en el proceso de formación de los jugadores de tenis de mesa con discapacidad, lo que no ha sido el caso hasta el momento.

Fitness testing in tennis: Influence of anthropometric characteristics, physical performance, and functional test on serve velocity in professional players.

The aims of this study were to examine the relationship between anthropometric variables, physical performance, and functional test with serve velocity regarding tennis players' level and to design regression models that effectively predict serve velocity. A sample of sixteen male tennis players participated in this study (national level = 8, professional level = 7). Anthropometric measurements (body mass, height, body mass index and body segments) and physical test (hand strength, countermovement jump, jump on serve, and serve velocity) and functional test (medicine ball throw overhead and shot put) were performed. No differences in anthropometrics and physical test were found between national and professional levels. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.05, ranging for 0.603 to 0.932) was found between some anthropometrics measurements (body mass, height, arm, forearm, and leg segments), physical parameters (hand strength, countermovement jump) and functional test (medicine ball throw shot put and overhead) with serve velocity for all tennis players. Multiple regression analysis indicated that medicine ball throw shot put was the most important test to explain serve velocity (r2 = 0.869). The results showed how the combination of physical and anthropometric factors have an impact on serve velocity. In addition, a new functional fitness test (medicine ball throw shot put) is proposed as an alternative to traditional medicine ball throw overhead due to its high reproducibility (inter-trial reliability) and predictive validity values, as well as by multi-segmental coordination movement similar to tennis serve.

Research on athlete's aerobic and anaerobic exercise ability with balanced nutrition / Pesquisa sobre a capacidade de exercício aeróbio e anaeróbio do atleta com nutrição balanceada / Investigación sobre la capacidad de ejercicio aeróbico y anaeróbico de los atletas con una nutrición equilibrada

ABSTRACT Introduction: The need for a lactic acid cycle eliminates lactic acid produced during exercise. This process requires energy consumption. D-ribose supplementation can increase muscle cell energy, accelerate the synthesis of PRPP in the heart and skeletal muscle, and eliminate the pentose phosphate pathway in the low limit of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity; it doubles the speed of ATP recovery, so supplementing ribose can improve exercise capacity and accelerate the elimination of lactic acid to improve recovery ability. Objective: Supplementing D-ribose can increase muscle cell energy and accelerate the regeneration of ATP in the myocardium and skeletal muscle. This experiment intends to explore the effects of anaerobic and aerobic exercise and anaerobic exercise capacity and recovery ability after supplementing D-ribose granules by observing the changes in exercise tests before and after nutritional supplementation and recovery indicators after exercise. Methods: The thesis used a paired design to randomly divide 24 male amateur tennis players into two groups (12 in each group): physical training group (control group), physical training + nutrition D-ribose group (test group), and the D- The effect of ribose on the aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity of amateur tennis players. Results: The observation indexes of the two groups before the test were not statistically significant (P>0.05); after the test for eight weeks, the aerobic capacity indexes of the test group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05), and also higher than those before the test (P<0.05)); The recovery of 3minHR and 5minHR of the experimental group after exercise was significantly faster than that of the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions: Nutritional D-ribose supplementation can enhance the aerobic training effect of amateur tennis players, improve aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity, and accelerate heart rate recovery after exercise. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução: A necessidade de um ciclo de ácido lático elimina o ácido lático produzido durante o exercício. Este processo requer consumo de energia. A suplementação com D-ribose pode aumentar a energia das células musculares, acelerar a síntese de PRPP no coração e no músculo esquelético e eliminar a via da pentose fosfato no limite inferior da atividade da glicose-6-fosfato desidrogenase; ele dobra a velocidade de recuperação de ATP, portanto, a suplementação de ribose pode melhorar a capacidade de exercício e acelerar a eliminação de ácido láctico para melhorar a capacidade de recuperação. Objetivo: A suplementação de D-ribose pode aumentar a energia das células musculares e acelerar a regeneração de ATP no miocárdio e músculo esquelético. Este experimento pretende explorar os efeitos do exercício anaeróbio e aeróbio e da capacidade de exercício anaeróbio e capacidade de recuperação após a suplementação de grânulos de D-ribose, observando as mudanças nos testes de exercício antes e após a suplementação nutricional e indicadores de recuperação após o exercício. Métodos: A tese utilizou um desenho pareado para dividir aleatoriamente 24 tenistas amadores do sexo masculino em dois grupos (12 em cada grupo): grupo de treinamento físico (grupo controle), grupo de treinamento físico + nutrição D-ribose (grupo de teste) e o grupo D - O efeito da ribose na capacidade de exercício aeróbio e anaeróbio de tenistas amadores. Resultados: Os índices de observação dos dois grupos antes do teste não foram estatisticamente significantes (P> 0,05); após o teste por oito semanas, os índices de capacidade aeróbia do grupo teste foram maiores do que os do grupo controle (P <0,05), e também maiores do que aqueles antes do teste (P <0,05); A recuperação de 3minHR e 5minHR do grupo experimental após o exercício foi significativamente mais rápida do que a do grupo controle (P <0,05). Conclusões: A suplementação nutricional de D-ribose pode aumentar o efeito do treinamento aeróbio de jogadores de tênis amadores, melhorar a capacidade de exercício aeróbio e anaeróbio e acelerar a recuperação da freqüência cardíaca após o exercício. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: La actividad física regular ayuda a mejorar las habilidades cardiovasculares y cerebrovasculares. Cómo evaluar la tensión nerviosa de los vasos cardiovasculares y cerebrovasculares a través del deporte es un tema candente. Objetivo: El artículo analiza la influencia de la participación regular en deportes sobre la función cardiovascular de las personas y los indicadores relacionados con la sangre. Métodos: Seleccionamos a 30 adultos mayores sanos que participan regularmente en deportes, registramos sus cambios en el ECG, presión arterial, frecuencia cardíaca y otros indicadores relacionados con la función cardiovascular, y analizamos la función sanguínea de los ancianos. Detección del recuento de glóbulos rojos (RBC), volumen de glóbulos rojos (MCV) y hemoglobina (Hb), creatinina sérica (Cr), glucosa en sangre (BGS), triglicéridos (TG), colesterol (TC), lipoproteínas de baja densidad (LDL) y se mide la lipoproteína de alta densidad (HDL). Resultados: Los adultos mayores que persisten en el ejercicio durante mucho tiempo tienen mejores indicadores que los que no lo hacen. Conclusión: El ejercicio aeróbico adecuado puede reducir la rigidez de los vasos sanguíneos en los ancianos. El ejercicio puede ayudar a los ancianos a aumentar la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y mejorar los indicadores sanguíneos y la masa corporal de la función nerviosa autónoma del corazón. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Effects of different aerobic exercise training on glycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes: A protocol for systematic review and meta analysis.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes is an emergent worldwide health crisis, and rates are growing globally. Aerobic exercise is an essential measure for patients with diabetes, which has the advantages of flexible time and low cost. Aerobic exercise is a popular method to reduce blood glucose. Due to the lack of randomized trials to compare the effects of various aerobic exercises, it is difficult to judge the relative efficacy. Therefore, we intend to conduct a network meta-analysis to evaluate these aerobic exercises. METHODS: According to the retrieval strategies, randomized controlled trials on different aerobic exercise training will be obtained from China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, SinoMed, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library, regardless of publication date or language. Studies were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the Cochrane risk bias assessment tool will be used to evaluate the quality of the literature. The network meta-analysis will be performed in Markov Chain Monte Carlo method and carried out with Stata14 and OpenBUGS software. Ultimately, the evidentiary grade for the results will be evaluated. RESULTS: Eighteen literatures with a total of 1134 patients were included for the meta-analysis. In glycemia assessment, Tennis (standard mean difference = 3.59, credible interval 1.52, 5.65), had significantly better effects than the named control group. Tennis (standard mean difference = 3.50, credible interval 1.05, 5.59), had significantly better effects than the named Taiji group. CONCLUSION: All together, these results suggest that tennis may be the best way to improve blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study may provide an excellent resource for future control glycemia and may also serve as a springboard for creative undertakings as yet unknown.

Effect of recreational beach tennis on ambulatory blood pressure and physical fitness in hypertensive individuals (BAH study): rationale and study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Different physical activities are widely recommended as non-pharmacological therapies to reduce blood pressure. However, the effectiveness of exercise programs is associated with its continuity and regularity, and the long-term adherence to traditional exercise interventions is often low. Recreational sports emerge as an alternative, being more captivating and able to retain individuals for longer periods. Besides, sport interventions have demonstrated improvements in physical fitness components that are associated with a lower incidence of hypertension. However, no studies have investigated the effects of recreational sports on 24 h ambulatory blood pressure. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of beach tennis training on ambulatory blood pressure and physical fitness in individuals with hypertension. METHODS: This study will be a randomized, single-blinded, two-arm, parallel, and superiority trial. Forty-two participants aged 35-65 years with previous diagnosis of hypertension will be randomized to 12 weeks of beach tennis training group (two sessions per week lasting 45-60 min) or a non-exercising control group. Ambulatory (primary outcome) and office blood pressures, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength/power and quality of life will be assessed at baseline and after the intervention period. DISCUSSION: Our conceptual hypothesis is that beach tennis training will reduce ambulatory blood pressure and improve fitness parameters in middle-aged individuals with hypertension. The results of this trial are expected to provide evidences of efficacy of recreational beach tennis practice on blood pressure management and to support sport recommendations for clinical scenario in higher risk populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03909321 . Registered on April 10, 2019.

Twenty-one sports activities are recommended by the European Knee Associates (EKA) six months after total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: To elaborate recommendations for sports participation following TKA among the members of the European Knee Associates (EKA). METHODS: A prospective online survey was conducted among the members of the European Knee Associates (EKA). The European Knee Associates (EKA) are a section of the European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery and Arthroscopy (ESSKA). The survey investigated recommendations for 47 sports disciplines. Possible answers were: allowed, allowed if experienced, not allowed, no opinion. The survey was conducted separately for 4 specific time frames: within 6 weeks after TKA; 6-12 weeks after TKA; 3-6 months after TKA; and more than 6 months after TKA. Consensus among the respondents was then analyzed. RESULTS: EKA members (N = 120) participated in the survey. A high level of consensus was reached for a recommendation to allow 5 different sports in the first 6 weeks after TKA, 7 sports 6-12 weeks after surgery, 14 sports 3-6 months after TKA, and 21 out of 47 activities 6 months after surgery. In the first 6 weeks after TKA walking, stair climbing, swimming, aqua fitness, and static cycling were recommended. Six to twelve weeks after TKA, cycling on level ground and yoga were recommended in addition to the aforementioned activities. Further sports activities recommended beyond 12 weeks after TKA were: tennis doubles, golf, fitness/weight lifting, aerobics, hiking, Nordic walking and sailing. The sport for which the recommendation was "not allowed" following TKA was squash. CONCLUSION: The number of sports recommended by EKA surgeons increases stepwise over the postoperative time frames. The findings are regarded as clinically relevant as they may serve as a basis for answering patient questions on timing and giving recommendations for the resumption of sports activities following standard primary TKA and should be individualized by surgeons for their patients' expectations and goals. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.

A Combined Sleep Hygiene and Mindfulness Intervention to Improve Sleep and Well-Being During High-Performance Youth Tennis Tournaments.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of combined sleep hygiene recommendations and mindfulness on actigraphy-based sleep parameters, perceptual well-being, anxiety, and match outcomes during high-performance junior tennis tournaments. METHODS: In a randomized crossover design, 17 high-performance junior tennis players completed the baseline, control, and intervention (INT) conditions across 3 separate weeks. The baseline consisted of unassisted, habitual sleep during a regular training week, and the control was unassisted sleep during a tournament week. The players attended a sleep education workshop and completed a nightly sleep hygiene protocol during a tournament week for the INT. Analysis was performed on the weekly means and on the night prior to the first match of the tournament (T-1). RESULTS: Significant differences were observed for increased time in bed, total sleep time, and an earlier bedtime (P < .05) across the INT week. These parameters also significantly improved on T-1 of the INT. A moderate effect size (P > .05, d > 1.00) was evident for decreased worry on T-1 of the INT. Small effect sizes were also evident for improved mood, cognitive anxiety, and sleep rating across the INT week. The match performance outcomes remained unchanged (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Sleep hygiene INTs increase the sleep duration of high-performance junior tennis players in tournament settings, including the night prior to the tournament's first match. The effects on perceptual well-being and anxiety are unclear, although small trends suggest improved mood, despite no effect on generic match performance outcomes.

The Impact of a Motor Imagery-Based Training Program on Agility, Speed, and Reaction Time in a Sample of Young Tennis Athletes during Ramadan Fasting: Insights and Implications from a Randomized, Controlled Experimental Trial.

The objective of this study was to explore whether a training program incorporating motor imagery could have an effect on physical performance outcomes in terms of agility, speed, and reaction time in a sample of tennis athletes who fasted during the month of Ramadan. Recruited subjects were 27 young male tennis players, randomly allocated to two groups: the imaging training group (n = 13) and a control group (n = 14). The study was designed as a randomized, controlled experimental study. The control group was engaged in watching videos concerning the history of the Olympic Games, whereas the motor imagery group followed a motor imagery-based training program. Physical performance outcomes were assessed during four sessions (one before Ramadan and three during Ramadan) by means of field tests. Our results revealed a drop in all performance outcomes measured in the middle and at the end of Ramadan for both groups (p < 0.01). The effect of the group × time interaction (p < 0.01) was reported for all physical performance outcomes measured for the two groups. This drop in performance was greater for the control group compared to the motor imagery group in the middle and at the end of Ramadan. This study showed that fasting during Ramadan reduced agility, speed, and reaction time performance for tennis players. A motor imagery-based training program could be an effective approach to reduce the effect of fasting during Ramadan and stabilize physical performance outcomes in terms of agility, speed, and reaction time for male tennis players.

Effects of Motor Mental Imagery Training on Tennis Service Performance during the Ramadan Fasting: a Randomized, Controlled Trial.

The objective of the present study is to analyze the effects of motor mental imagery training on tennis service performance among tennis athletes who fast during Ramadan. Participants were 38 young male tennis players, randomly divided into two groups: Imaging Training (IMG, n = 18) and control group (CG, n = 20). The CG has watched videos on the history of the Olympic Games, while IMG has followed a training program in motor imagery. The performance of the tennis service was obtained by the product between accuracy and speed of typing (accuracy x average speed of all shots (km/h)). The effect of group / time interaction (p < 0.01) was identified for all performance indicators (accuracy, running speed and performance (speed x precision)), with improvement only in IMG (p = 0.01). The results showed that motor imagery training could be an effective strategy for mitigating/counteracting the negative effects of Ramadan on the tennis service performance.

The Impact of Eye-closed and Weighted Multi-ball Training on the Improvement of the Stroke Effect of Adolescent Table Tennis Players.

This paper investigated the impact of eye-closed and weighted training (EWMT) on the stroke effect of adolescent table tennis players. Forty-eight adolescent table tennis players were randomly selected from the China Table Tennis College and were divided into two groups as 1) the experimental group (EG, n = 24) in which they engaged in multi-ball exercise with eye-closed and weighted swing for 10 weeks, and 2) the control group (CG, n = 24) in which they received a normal training without eye-closed and weighted swing intervention. The stroke effect was assessed by three outcome measures: accuracy, stability, and ball speed. Results showed that 1) both the traditional training method and EWMT can improve the stroke effect of adolescent table tennis players. 2) In terms of accuracy, the number of stroke in the corner area was significantly different between EG and CG after the experiment (p = 0.022, p < 0.001, respectively). 3) In terms of stroke stability, there was a significant difference in the number of net ball strokes between EG and CG after the experiment (p = 0.014). 4) In terms of ball speed, there was no significant difference between EG and CG after the experiment (p = 0.871). 5) After EWMT, the stroke stability of backspin had more significant improvement than that of topspin. Thus, compared with the traditional training method, the EWMT method can improve the stroke effect of adolescent table tennis players in terms of accuracy and stability more significantly; the EWMT method can improve the stroke effect of backspin more significantly than that of topspin in terms of stability.