The Effect of Acute Caffeine Ingestion on Tactical Performance of Professional Soccer Players.

In soccer, physical, tactical, and decision-making processes are highly important facets of successful performance. Caffeine has well established effects for promoting both physical and cognitive performance, but the translation of such benefits specifically for soccer match play is not well established. This study examined the effects of acute caffeine ingestion on tactical performance during small-sided games (SSG) in professional soccer players. Nineteen soccer players (22 ± 4 years) underwent a randomized, counterbalanced, crossover, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. The protocol consisted of 5 bouts of 5-min SSG with 3 players plus a goalkeeper in each team (3 + GK × 3 + GK) with each SSG separated by 1 min rest intervals. Tactical performance was assessed using the system of tactical assessment in soccer (FUT-SAT). Prior to each experimental trial, participants ingested caffeine (5 mg·kg-1) or a placebo 60 min before the protocol. Overall, caffeine ingestion resulted in an increased ball possession time when compared to the placebo. When the offensive and defensive core principles were analyzed, the results were equivocal. Caffeine resulted in positive effects on some tactical decisions during the protocol, but it was deleterious or promoted no observed effect on other of the core tactical principles. Caffeine ingestion resulted in less offensive (during SSG3) and defensive (SSG 2, SSG3, and SSG4) errors. Caffeine ingestion also resulted in higher total offensive success during SSG 1 and SSG2, but it was detrimental during SSG3. Additionally, total defensive success was lower for the caffeine conditions during SSG 2 and SSG5 when compared to the placebo. In conclusion, caffeine influenced aspects of tactical decisions in soccer, resulting in fewer offensive and defensive errors, although it may be deleterious considering other tactical parameters. Future studies may clarify the effects of caffeine ingestion on specific decision-making parameters in soccer.

Effect of motor imagery on enjoyment in knee-injury prevention and rehabilitation training: A randomized crossover study.

OBJECTIVES: The novel MOTor Imagery to Facilitate Sensorimotor Re-Learning (MOTIFS) model takes a uniquely holistic approach by integrating mental and physical aspects into current training programs. The aim of this trial was to evaluate enjoyment of MOTIFS training as compared to Care-as-Usual (CaU) knee injury and/or rehabilitation training. The primary hypothesis was that enjoyment would be greater following MOTIFS training than CaU training. DESIGN: Block-randomized 2×2 cross-over trial. METHODS: Thirty athletes (18-31years, 50% women) currently or previously active in team ball sports, with no pain or injury preventing jump and/or directional changes. MOTIFS training integrates sport-specific experiences and equipment into physical exercises to increase individualized realism and meaning. The CaU condition included solely physical exercise. The main outcome was the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). Secondary outcomes included Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM; subscales Valence, Arousal, Dominance), Perceived exertion, pulse, duration, and movement quality. RESULTS: PACES scores were better following MOTIFS training than CaU (point estimate 24.67; 95% CI: 19.0; 30.3). Between-groups differences in SAM Valence (median 2, quartiles 1;3), Arousal (median 1, quartiles 0;2.25), and Dominance (median 0.5, quartiles 0;2), and RPE (median 1, quartiles -0.3;2), training duration (mean 5.34, 95% CI: -0.17; -0.73), and pulse (median 7.50, quartiles 0.25;16.75) were higher following MOTIFS training than CaU training. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that the MOTIFS model, which integrates simultaneous physical and psychological interventions, is a clinically plausible method of influencing enjoyment and other psychological outcomes. Further studies may explore effects of the MOTIFS principles on injury prevention and rehabilitation training.

Retirement of professional soccer players - A systematic review from social sciences perspectives.

Retiring professional athletes face multifaceted changes and potential issues of adjustment, occupational development, and well-being, which raises concerns around the world. The study systematically reviewed the available research investigating professional soccer players' sport retirement from social sciences perspectives. The literature search in electronic databases and a "snowballing" procedure yielded 17 eligible studies investigating > 2,200 retired professional soccer players. The review followed the PRISMA statement. Nine studies focused on an early transition phase to retirement period; four studies investigated later periods of ten years or longer after retirement. Around half of the players reported involuntary retirement, often associated with declining performance and/or injury. Studies suggest issues of adjustment and mental health during early years after retirement, while psychological issues had apparently declined around 1-2 decades after retirement. However, available studies had notable limitations including lack of evidenced representative samples, report of measures' reliability, and control for confounders. Furthermore, while theoretical models emphasise a holistic perspective, quantitative research often took a narrow rather than holistic perspective. In summary, available knowledge is fraught with some uncertainty regarding reliability and representativeness of the population of retired professional soccer players. We offer future directions to advance the development of a theory of sport retirement.

Effects of Daily Probiotics Supplementation on Anxiety Induced Physiological Parameters among Competitive Football Players.

Competitive football players who undergo strenuous training and frequent competitions are more vulnerable to psychological disorders. Probiotics are capable of reducing these psychological disorders. The present study aimed to determine the effect of daily probiotics supplementation on anxiety induced physiological parameters among competitive football players. The randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 20 male footballers who received either probiotics (Lactobacillus Casei Shirota strain 3 × 1010 colony forming units (CFU) or a placebo drink over eight weeks. Portable biofeedback devices were used to measure the electroencephalography, heart rate, and electrodermal responses along with cognitive tests at the baseline, week 4, and week 8. Data were statistically analyzed using mixed factorial ANOVA and results revealed that there is no significant difference between the probiotic and placebo groups for heart rate (61.90 bpm ± 5.84 vs. 67.67 bpm ± 8.42, p = 0.09) and electrodermal responses (0.27 µS ± 0.19 vs. 0.41 µS ± 0.12, p = 0.07) after eight weeks. Similarly, brain waves showed no significant changes during the study period except for the theta wave and delta wave at week 4 (p < 0.05). The cognitive test reaction time (digit vigilance test) showed significant improvement in the probiotic group compared to the placebo (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these findings suggest that daily probiotics supplementation may have the potential to modulate the brain waves namely, theta (relaxation) and delta (attention) for better training, brain function, and psychological improvement to exercise. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of current findings.

Fútbol y psicoanálisis: una experiencia entre varios

En el Centro de Salud Mental Nº 1 de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, el equipo de Niños Tarde comenzó en 2018 a integrar a los niños en tratamiento a un taller de fútbol, pensado como un espacio en el cual pudieran jugar con otros, y posibilitar múltiples transferencias e intervenciones. Se describe cómo fueron desarrollándose las actividades de este dispositivo.

Psychological characteristics of developing excellence in elite youth football players in English professional academies.

This mixed-longitudinal prospective study examined the development of psychological characteristics of developing excellence in relation to the career progression of elite youth football players. In a 20-month period, 111 academy football players aged 11-16 completed the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire (PCDEQ) on 1-5 occasions. This combination of single and repeated assessments resulted in a mixed-longitudinal sample of 226 completed PCDEQs. Players were then prospectively tracked, and their scholarship status assessed at follow-up, at age U17. Multilevel modelling revealed that coping with performance and developmental pressures scores increased with age, and that Category 1-2 academy scholars (4.35 ± 0.61) scored higher than Category 3-4 academy scholars (3.99 ± 0.67) and non-scholars (4.02 ± 0.78) (p < .05). Evaluating performances and working on weaknesses scores increased with age for Category 1-2 academy scholars (U12-U14 vs. U15-U16 = 5.16 ± 0.48 vs. 5.38 ± 0.45), compared to non-scholars (U12-U14 vs. U15-U16 = 5.11 ± 0.59 vs. 5.03 ± 0.71) (p < .05). Imagery use during practice and competition scores decreased with age (U12-U14 vs. U15-U16 = 4.45 ± 0.66 vs. 4.29 ± 0.70) (p < .05). A blend of PCDEs may facilitate optimal career progression. Football academies should develop players' PCDEs, with a particular focus on developing their coping skills and their ability to realistically evaluate performances and work on weaknesses.

Effect of a mindfulness programme training to prevent the sport injury and improve the performance of semi-professional soccer players.

OBJECTIVE: Mindfulness improves psychological outcomes. We examined whether greater mindfulness scores were associated with reduced injury rates in soccer players, as well as improved performance at both the individual and team level. METHOD: This was a parallel-group, pre- and post-test, randomised controlled pilot trial. Forty-five male amateur soccer players from Tehran, Iran, were randomly assigned into experimental (n=23) and control groups (n=22). Outcomes were scores on the mindfulness sport inventory, as well as injury rates and recovery as assessed by a physiotherapist using standardised criteria. Expert observers assessed the effect on individual and team performance. Data were analysed using mixed analysis of variance and, where indicated, its non-parametric alternative, the Friedman test. RESULTS: Significantly greater mindfulness scores in the intervention group were associated with both reduced injury and improved performance. CONCLUSION: Mindfulness training shows promise in preventing injury and improving performance. The intervention could be applied to other sports and be helpful in clinical settings given the importance of exercise in promoting psychological well-being.

Caffeine Supplementation and Physical Performance, Muscle Damage and Perception of Fatigue in Soccer Players: A Systematic Review.

Soccer is a complex team sport and success in this discipline depends on different factors such as physical fitness, player technique and team tactics, among others. In the last few years, several studies have described the impact of caffeine intake on soccer physical performance, but the results of these investigations have not been properly reviewed and summarized. The main objective of this review was to evaluate critically the effectiveness of a moderate dose of caffeine on soccer physical performance. A structured search was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in the Medline/PubMed and Web of Science databases from January 2007 to November 2018. The search included studies with a cross-over and randomized experimental design in which the intake of caffeine (either from caffeinated drinks or pills) was compared to an identical placebo situation. There were no filters applied to the soccer players' level, gender or age. This review included 17 articles that investigated the effects of caffeine on soccer-specific abilities (n = 12) or on muscle damage (n = 5). The review concluded that 5 investigations (100% of the number of investigations on this topic) had found ergogenic effects of caffeine on jump performance, 4 (100%) on repeated sprint ability and 2 (100%) on running distance during a simulated soccer game. However, only 1 investigation (25%) found as an effect of caffeine to increase serum markers of muscle damage, while no investigation reported an effect of caffeine to reduce perceived fatigue after soccer practice. In conclusion, a single and moderate dose of caffeine, ingested 5⁻60 min before a soccer practice, might produce valuable improvements in certain abilities related to enhanced soccer physical performance. However, caffeine does not seem to cause increased markers of muscle damage or changes in perceived exertion during soccer practice.

The Mindfulness- Based Soccer Program (MBSoccerP): Effects on Elite Athletes / El Programa Basado en Mindfulness nel Fútbol (MBSoccerP): Efectos en los Atletas de Élite / Programa baseado no Mindfulness para Futebol Profissional (MBSoccerP): estudo de eficácia em Atletas de Elite

Newly, 3º wave CBT programs suggest that mindfulness-based programs might be an powerful strategy to optimize performance and improve flow. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based soccer program (MBSoccerP) on elite soccer athletes. In a quasi-experimental design with experimental (n = 28) and control group (n = 29), the effectiveness of MBSoccerP was tested. The results of an analysis of covariance with repeated measures indicate that the intervention group (M=25.68, SD=3.42) significantly improved in FFMQ_Act awareness, FFMQ_Non react, SCS-Mindfulness, SCS-Self-Kindness, SCS-Common-Humanity, DFS2-total, and decreased BSI-Anxiety and AAQ-II, as traits compared to the control group, and increase direct measures scores of sport performance FAIP-A-global and FAIP-T-global performance. Results suggest that MBSoccerP can be effective in enhance elite soccer performance, self-compassion, psychological flexibility, mindfulness and flow

Recientemente, los programas de Terapia cognitiva conductual (TCC) de 3ª generación sugieren que los programas basados en el mindfulness pueden ser una estrategia poderosa para optimizar el rendimiento y mejorar el estado de flow. El objetivo de este estudio fue examinar la eficacia de un programa de mindfulness (MBSoccerP) en atletas de fútbol profesional. En un plano cuasi-experimental con grupo experimental (n = 28) y grupo de control (n = 29), se probó la eficacia del MBSoccerP. Los resultados del análisis de covariancia con medidas repetidas indicaron que el grupo experimental (M = 25.68, SD = 3.42) mejoró significativamente el Mindfulness agir consciente, Mindfulness Agir Consciente y Mindfulness No Reaccionar subescalas, la Autocompasión Mindfulness, Autocompasión Auto-bondad, y la Autocompasión Humanidad Común subescalas, el estado de flow total escala, y desempeño deportivo total y entrenador total indicador. Se verificó la disminución de Breve inventario de sintomas Ansiedad subescala y evitación experiencial escala, en comparación con el grupo de control. Los resultados sugieren que MBSoccerP puede ser efectivo en la optimización del rendimiento, mindfulness, autocompasión, flexibilidad psicológica y estado de flow

Recentemente, a Terapia Cognitivo-Comportamental (TCC) de 3º geração sugere que os programas baseados no mindfulness podem ser uma estratégia útil e eficaz na otimização do desempenho e melhoria do estado de flow. O objetivo deste estudo foi examinar a eficácia de um programa de mindfulness em atletas de futebol profissional - 2ª liga (MBSoccerP). Num plano quase-experimental com grupo experimental (n = 28) e grupo de controle (n = 29), foi testado o impacto do programa MBSoccerP. Os resultados da análise da covariância (medidas repetidas), indicaram que o grupo experimental (M = 25.68, SD = 3.42) melhorou significativamente nas subescalas Mindfulness Agir Consciente, Mindfulness Não Reagir; nas subescalas Auto-compaixão Mindfulness, Autobondade e Condição Humana; na escala de Flow Disposicional, e desempenho desportivo global dos atletas pela Ficha de Avaliação de Indicadores da Performance-Versão Atleta/Treinador. Verificou-se ainda a diminuição na subescala Ansiedade do Inventário de Sintomas Breve e no evitamento experiencial, por comparação com o grupo de controlo. Os resultados sugerem que o MBSoccerP pode ser efetivo na otimização do desempenho, mindfulness, autocompaixão, flexibilidade psicológica e estado de flow

EEG alpha activity during imagining creative moves in soccer decision-making situations.

This study investigated task-related changes of EEG alpha power while participants were imagining creative moves in soccer decision-making situations. After presenting brief video clips of a soccer scene, participants had to imagine themselves as the acting player and to think either of a creative/original or an obvious/conventional move (control condition) that might lead to a goal. Performance of the soccer task generally elicited comparatively strong alpha power decreases at parietal and occipital sites, indicating high visuospatial processing demands. This power decrease was less pronounced in the creative vs. control condition, reflecting a more internally oriented state of information processing characterized by more imaginative mental simulation rather than stimulus-driven bottom-up processing. In addition, more creative task performance in the soccer task was associated with stronger alpha desynchronization at left cortical sites, most prominently over motor related areas. This finding suggests that individuals who generated more creative moves were more intensively engaged in processes related to movement imagery. Unlike the domain-specific creativity measure, individual's trait creative potential, as assessed by a psychometric creativity test, was globally positively associated with alpha power at all cortical sites. In investigating creative processes implicated in complex creative behavior involving more ecologically valid demands, this study showed that thinking creatively in soccer decision-making situations recruits specific brain networks supporting processes related to visuospatial attention and movement imagery, while the relative increase in alpha power in more creative conditions and in individuals with higher creative potential might reflect a pattern relevant across different creativity domains.

Intervención mindfulness de rehabilitación de un deportista lesionado: Caso en fútbol profesional / Mindfulness intervention of rehabilitation of an injured athlete: Case in professional soccer

El gran número de lesiones en el deporte y concretamente en fútbol se está convirtiendo en un problema de interés prioritario para los profesionales que trabajan con deportistas. El estudio de la epidemiologia de la lesión y de las complejas variables que intervienen el proceso de recuperación del deportista lesionado nos obliga a incorporar nuevas técnicas de intervención. En este estudio se propone una intervención basada en mindfulness o atención plena como complemento al protocolo de rehabilitación de un futbolista profesional lesionado. La propuesta se desarrolla en ocho sesiones donde se trabajan aspectos teóricos y prácticos y se evalúan variables psicológicas y fisiológicas antes durante y después de la intervención. Aceptando las limitaciones que presenta un estudio aplicado de caso único, podemos sugerir que, con los resultados obtenidos, este tipo de intervenciones pueden ser de utilidad en la rehabilitación de deportistas profesionales lesionados; ya que se observa una mejora de la percepción subjetiva del estado de ánimo durante la intervención y aumento de coherencia cardiaca entre otros componentes. La evaluación de seguimiento mostró la importancia de la fase de incorporación a la competición por la carga emocional que pudimos registrar. Se deben mejorar y ampliar la investigación en este ámbito de aplicación

The big number of sport injuries, especially in soccer, is becoming an important problem for the professionals who work with sportists. The study of sport’s injuries epidemiology and the complexity of the variables that are present in the sportist's recuperation process make us incorporate new intervention techniques. In this study a mindfulness-based intervention is proposed as a complement to rehabilitation of an injured soccer player. Through eight sessions theorical and practical aspects are worked and psychological and physiological variables are evaluated during and after the intervention. With the limitations of a study like this, we can suggest that this kind of interventions can be useful in rehabilitation of injured sportists. There is an improvement in the state's perception and in the cardiac coherence among other variables. The follow-up evaluation showed the importance of the back to competition phase because of the emotional load we were able to record; so it is recommended to increase the research in this field

Eficacia de la hipnosis en psicologia del deporte. Importancia de la comunicación y estudio de casos / Eficácia da hipnose na psicologia do esporte. Importância da comunicação e estudos de caso / Efficacy of hypnosis in sports psychology. Importance of communication and study of cases

En la historia del desarrollo de los procedimientos médicos y psicológicos, la hipnosis ha protagonizado un papel destacado, siendo una intervención clínica valiosa en el tratamiento de una extensa variedad de problemas. A pesar de ello no se ha librado de controversias y mitos acerca de su naturaleza. En el presente trabajo se revisa el desarrollo histórico de la hipnosis y los modelos explicativos más relevantes, desde aquellos que la consideran un estado alterado de conciencia hasta los que defienden que los fenómenos hipnóticos pueden ser explicados por las mismas variables que la conducta y la experiencia no hipnótica. También se revisan algunas de las definiciones que han surgido desde los distintos paradigmas, así como la evidencia empírica de su eficacia, comprobándose que cuando es utilizada como coadyuvante de los tratamientos médicos y psicológicos incrementa la eficacia de los mismos, siendo de especial relevancia la relación de comunicación que se establece entre clínico y paciente. Se finaliza con una revisión de su aplicación en el ámbito del deporte y la presentación de un estudio de casos (3 atletas y 1 futbolista) en los que se utiliza hipnosis coadyuvante con otras técnicas. En todos los casos se logran resultados óptimos (AU)

In the history of the development of medical and psychological procedures, hypnosis has played a prominent role, being a valuable clinical intervention in the treatment of a wide variety of problems. However, it has not been spared controversy and myths about its nature. In the present work we review the historical development of hypnosis and the most relevant explanatory models from those who consider it an altered state of consciousness to those who argue that hypnotic phenomena can be explained by the same variables as behavior and experience Not hypnotic. We also review some of the definitions that have emerged from the different paradigms, as well as the empirical evidence of their effectiveness, proving that when used as an adjunct to medical and psychological treatments increases their effectiveness, being of special relevance the relationship Of communication between clinician and patient. It ends with a review of its application in the field of sport and the presentation of a case study (3 athletes and 1 player) in which hypnosis is used adjuvant with other techniques. In all cases optimal results are achieved (AU)

Na história do desenvolvimento de procedimentos médicos e psicológicos, a hipnose tem desempenhado um papel proeminente, sendo uma intervenção clínica valiosa no tratamento de uma grande variedade de problemas. Apesar disso, não foi poupado controvérsias e mitos sobre sua natureza. No presente trabalho, analisamos o desenvolvimento histórico da hipnose e os modelos explicativos mais relevantes, daqueles que a consideram um estado de consciência alterado para aqueles que defendem esses fenômenos hipnóticos podem ser explicados pelas mesmas variáveis que o comportamento e a experiência. não hipnótico. Também analisamos algumas das definições que surgiram de diferentes paradigmas, bem como a evidência empírica de sua eficácia, provando que, quando utilizado como coadjuvante de tratamentos médicos e psicológicos, aumenta a eficácia deles, sendo de relevância especial o relacionamento de comunicação estabelecida entre clínico e paciente. Ele termina com uma revisão de sua aplicação no campo do esporte e a apresentação de um estudo de caso (3 atletas e 1 jogador de futebol) em que a hipnose é usada em conjunto com outras técnicas. Em todos os casos, resultados óptimos são alcançados (AU)

Neuroplus biofeedback improves attention, resilience, and injury prevention in elite soccer players.

Performance and injury prevention in elite soccer players are typically investigated from physical-tactical, biomechanical, and metabolic perspectives. However, executive functions, visuospatial abilities, and psychophysiological adaptability or resilience are also fundamental for efficiency and well-being in sports. Based on previous research associating autonomic flexibility with prefrontal cortical control, we designed a novel integrated autonomic biofeedback training method called Neuroplus to improve resilience, visual attention, and injury prevention. Herein, we introduce the method and provide an evaluation of 20 elite soccer players from the Italian Soccer High Division (Serie-A): 10 players trained with Neuroplus and 10 trained with a control treatment. The assessments included psychophysiological stress profiles, a visual search task, and indexes of injury prevention, which were measured pre- and posttreatment. The analysis showed a significant enhancement of physiological adaptability, recovery following stress, visual selective attention, and injury prevention that were specific to the Neuroplus group. Enhancing the interplay between autonomic and cognitive functions through biofeedback may become a key principle for obtaining excellence and well-being in sports. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence that shows improvement in visual selective attention following intense autonomic biofeedback.

Intervención directa mediante biofeedback, para cambiar las conductas de desanimo de un portero de fútbol / Intervenção direta através de biofeedback, para mudança de comportamentos de desmotivação de um guarda redes de futebol / Direct intervention through biofeedback, to change disheartening conducts in a soccer goalkeeper

El objetivo de este trabajo es describir una intervención, que buscaba modificar el comportamiento de un portero en relación con los errores que cometía, pues tras recibir un gol, se desanimaba y no dejaba de centrarse en el error cometido. Esta atención en el error cometido le hacía tardar de volver a tener un comportamiento adecuado para cumplir su función en el juego. Esta intervención se realizó mediante biofeedback, técnicas de control emocional y técnicas para el manejo de la atención y la concentración. Dado que es una intervención sobre un portero de 18 años de fútbol once, solicitada por el entrenador, se utilizó un estudio de caso único. De acuerdo con los resultados descriptivos se encontró una mejoría en la atención y concentración ya que hubo una cercanía a los 5 μv en ondas beta y hubo un incremento en la puntuación directa de concentración en los datos de la prueba Toulouse-Piéron. También se encontró una mejora del control emocional, mediante biofeedback, ya que hubo un incremento en la respuesta galvánica de la piel. Por último, también se registró un cambio en las conductas del portero tras los errores, ya que hubo una disminución de las conductas de desánimo y un aumento de las conductas adecuadas (AU)

The aim of this work is to describe an intervention which sought to modify the behavior of a goalkeeper in relation to the errors he committed, after receiving a goal, he became disheartened, and could not stop concentrating on the error committed. This attention paid to the error committed delayed a return to having adequate behavior in order to fulfil his function in the game. This intervention was carried out through biofeedback, techniques of emotional control and techniques to manage attention and concentration. Given that the intervention was carried out on an eighteen year old goalkeeper, at the request of the trainer, a study of a unique case was used. In accordance with the descriptive results, an improvement in attention and concentration was found as there was a proximity to 5 μv on beta waves and there was an increase in direct punctuation of concentration in the data of the Toulouse-Piéron test. An improvement in emotional control was also found through biofeedback, as there was an increase in the stimulating response to skin. Finally, a change in the goalkeeper’s conduct after the errors was registered, as there was a decrease in the discouraging conducts and an increase in the adequate conducts (AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi realizar uma intervenção de modificação de comportamentos de um atleta (guarda redes) após este cometer erros ou sofrer golos. Depois de sofrer um golo, o atleta desmotivava e continuava focado no eventual erro. Esta manutenção do foco atencional no erro fazia com que este tardasse em ter um comportamento adequado à sua função no jogo. Esta intervenção foi realizada utilizando técnicas de biofeedback, técnicas de gestão emocional e técnicas de controlo da atenção e concentração. Dado que se tratou de uma intervenção solicitada pelo treinador, sobre um único atleta de 18 anos, praticante de futebol onze, foi utilizada uma metodologia de caso único. De acordo com os resultados descritos, foi encontrada uma melhoria na atenção e na concentração, verificada através da melhoria de 5 μv nas ondas beta e no aumento da pontuação direta da prova Toulose-Pieron. Também foi registada uma melhoria no controlo emocional através de biofeedback com um aumento dos valores da resposta galvânica da pele. Por fim também foram registadas alterações no comportamento após erro, uma vez que diminuíram os comportamentos de desmotivação e aumentaram os comportamentos adequados (AU)

Examination of motivation, anxiety and imagery levels of footballers from different leagues / Análisis de los niveles de motivación, ansiedad e imaginería de los futbolistas de diferentes ligas

In the study, it was aimed to compare the motivation, anxiety and imagery levels of footballers from different leagues. For this purpose, totally 129 professional football players from The Turkish Super League (Xage: 25.44±4.11 year) and First League (Xage: 23.80±4.33 year) participated in the study voluntarily. Competitive State Anxiety Inventory (CSAI-2) for measuring anxiety, Sport Imagery Questionnaire (SIQ) for measuring imagery and Sport Motivation Scale (SMS) for measuring motivation levels of participants were used in the study. Frequency and percentage distribution calculations and Independent Samples t-tests were used for analysis. Obtained data showed significant differences in somatic anxiety, intrinsic motivation to experience stimulation, identification and introjection sub-dimensions in terms of league levels of footballers (p < 0.05). Also, significant differences were found in external regulation, identification and introjection scores in terms of age groups (p<0.05). As a result, anxiety and motivation levels different regarding the league level of professional football players (AU)

En el estudio, se intentó comparar los niveles de motivación, ansiedad e imagineria de futbolistas de diferentes ligas. Para ello, participaron voluntariamente en el estudio 129 jugadores de fútbol profesional de la Super Liga Turca (Xedad: 25.44 ± 4.11 años) y la Primera Liga (Xedad: 23.80 ± 4.33 años). En el estudio se utilizó el Inventario Competitivo de Ansiedad del Estado (CSAI-2) para medir la ansiedad, el cuestionario de imágenes deportivas (SIQ) para la medición de imágenes y la Escala de Motivación del Deporte (SMS) para medir los niveles de motivación de los participantes. Para el análisis se utilizaron los cálculos de la frecuencia y el porcentaje de distribución y las muestras independientes t. Los datos obtenidos mostraron diferencias significativas en la ansiedad somática, motivación intrínseca para experimentar subdimensiones de estimulación, identificación e introyección en términos de niveles de liga de futbolistas (p < 0.05). Como resultado, los niveles de ansiedad y motivación difieren en cuanto al nivel de liga de los jugadores de fútbol profesional (AU)

Do cognitive training strategies improve motor and positive psychological skills development in soccer players? Insights from a systematic review.

Soccer players are required to have well-developed physical, technical and cognitive abilities. The present systematic review, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, examined the effects of cognitive training strategies on motor and positive psychological skills development in soccer performance and identified the potential moderators of the "cognitive training-soccer performance" relationship. Thirteen databases were systematically searched using keywords related to psychological or cognitive training in soccer players. The review is based on 18 studies, employing 584 soccer players aged 7-39 years. Cognitive strategies, particularly imagery, appear to improve sports performance in soccer players. Regarding imagery, the combination of two different types of cognitive imagery training (i.e., cognitive general and cognitive specific) has a positive influence on soccer performance during training, whereas motivational imagery (i.e., motivational general-arousal, motivational general-mastery and motivational specific) enhance competition performance. Younger soccer players employ cognitive general and cognitive specific imagery techniques to a greater extent than older soccer players. Combined cognitive training strategies were more beneficial than a single cognitive strategy relative to motor skills enhancement in elite (particularly midfielders) and amateur (i.e., when practising complex and specific soccer skills in precompetitive period) soccer players. In conclusion, it appears that there are differences in cognitive/psychological training interventions, and their efficacy, according to whether they are directed towards training or competition, and the age, standard and playing position of the players.

Imágenes mentales utilizadas en diferentes actividades físicas y deportivas / Imagens mentais utilizados em diferentes atividades físicas e desportivas / Mental images used in different physical and sports activities

En esta investigación deseábamos saber si existía diferencia significativa entre distintas tareas que implicaban actividad física (pilates y bailes de salón) y tareas deportivas (fútbol sala y baloncesto) en el tipo de imagen que utilizaban las participantes. Para ello, seleccionamos un grupo de 200 mujeres (50 de pilates, 50 de bailes de salón, 50 de fútbol sala, y 50 de baloncesto), practicantes de la actividad física o del deporte, y les aplicamos la versión española del Object-Spatial Imagery and Verbal Questionnaire (OSIVQ). Posteriormente analizamos si existían diferencias significativas entre la actividad física y el deporte, y entre las diferentes actividades físicas (pilates y bailes de salón), y entre diferentes deportes (fútbol y baloncesto), en cada una de las escalas del OSIVQ. Encontramos que las practicantes de pilates tenían un procesamiento verbal, y las practicantes de bailes de salón, las de fútbol sala y las de baloncesto utilizaban imágenes del objeto. Cuando se analizó la actividad física (pilates y bailes de salón, conjuntamente), y la actividad deportiva (fútbol sala y baloncesto, conjuntamente) se encontró que tanto las participantes de la actividad física como las participantes de la actividad deportiva prefieren utilizar la imagen del objeto. Se ofrecen nuevas líneas de investigación (AU)

This study assessed significant differences in the types of mental imagery used by participants practicing sports (indoor football and basketball) or undertaking physical activity (pilates and ballroom dancing). The selected sample of 200 women (50 practicing pilates, 50 ballroom, 50 indoor football, and 50 basketball) was administered the Spanish version of the Object-Spatial Imagery and Verbal Questionnaire (OSIVQ). Significant differences in each of the scales of the OSIVQ between participants involved in sports or physical activity were assessed. Women practicing pilates were found to have verbal processing whereas ballroom dancers, indoor football or basketball players used object imagery. An analysis of physical activity (pilates and ballroom dancing) and sports (indoor football and basketball) revealed that all participants used object imagery. We propose new research lines (AU)

Nesta pesquisa, pretendemos saber se existe uma diferença significativa no tipo de imagens utilizadas pelos participantes em diferentes tarefas que envolvem a atividade física (pilates e dança de salão) e tarefas desportivas (futebol de salão e basquete). Para isso, selecionamos um grupo de 200 mulheres (50 de pilates, 50 de salão de festas, 50 de futebol de salão, e 50 de basquete), praticantes de atividade física ou desporto e lhes aplicamos a versão em espanhol do Object-Spatial Imagery and Verbal Questionnaire (OSIVQ). Avaliou-se se existiram diferenças significativas entre a actividade física e do desporto, e entre as diferentes atividades físicas (pilates e dança de salão), e entre os diferentes desportos (futebol de salão e basquete) para cada uma das escalas do OSIVQ. Verificamos que as praticantes de pilates apresentavam um processamento verbal, e as practicantes de dança de salão, de futebol de salão e de basquete utilizavam imagens do objeto. Quando se analisou a atividade física (pilates e dança de salão, juntamente) e desporto (futebol de salão e basquete, juntos), verificou-se que tanto as practicantes atividade física como as practicantes de atividade desportiva preferem usar a imagem do objeto. Propomos novas linhas de pesquisa (AU)

Sleep Hygiene and Recovery Strategies in Elite Soccer Players.

In elite soccer, players are frequently exposed to various situations and conditions that can interfere with sleep (e.g., playing night matches interspersed with 3 days; performing activities demanding high levels of concentration close to bedtime; use of products containing caffeine or alcohol in the period preceding bedtime; regular daytime napping throughout the week; variable wake-up times or bedtime), potentially leading to sleep deprivation. We outline simple, practical, and pharmaceutical-free sleep strategies that are coordinated to the constraints of elite soccer in order to promote sleep. Sleep deprivation is best alleviated by sleep extension; however, sleep hygiene strategies (i.e., consistent sleep pattern, appropriate napping, and active daytime behaviors) can be utilized to promote restorative sleep. Light has a profound impact on sleep, and sleep hygiene strategies that support the natural environmental light-dark cycle (i.e., red-light treatment prior to sleep, dawn-simulation therapy prior to waking) and prevent cycle disruption (i.e., filtering short wavelengths prior to sleep) may be beneficial to elite soccer players. Under conditions of inordinate stress, techniques such as brainwave entrainment and meditation are promising sleep-promoting strategies, but future studies are required to ascertain the applicability of these techniques to elite soccer players. Consuming high-electrolyte fluids such as milk, high-glycemic index carbohydrates, some forms of protein immediately prior to sleep, as well as tart cherry juice concentrate and tryptophan may promote rehydration, substrate stores replenishment, muscle-damage repair and/or restorative sleep. The influence of cold water immersion performed close to bedtime on subsequent sleep is still debated. Conversely, the potential detrimental effects of sleeping medication must be recognized. Sleep initiation is influenced by numerous factors, reinforcing the need for future research to identify such factors. Efficient and individualized sleep hygiene strategies may consequently be proposed.

Motivational patterns as an instrument for predicting success in promising young football players.

Psychological characteristics are crucial to identifying talents, which is why these are being incorporated in today's multidimensional talent models. In addition to multidimensionality, talent studies are increasingly drawing on holistic theories of development, leading to the use of person-oriented approaches. The present study adopts such an approach by looking at the influence that motivational characteristics have on the development of performance, in a person-oriented way. For this purpose, it looks at how the constructs achievement motive, achievement goal orientation and self-determination interact with one another, what patterns they form and how these patterns are linked to subsequent sports success. Ninety-seven top young football players were questioned twice. Another year later, it was enquired which of these players had been selected for the U15 national team. At both measuring points, four patterns were identified, which displayed a high degree of structural and individual stability. As expected, the highly intrinsically achievement-oriented players were significantly more likely to move up into the U15 national team. The results point to the importance of favourable patterns of motivational variables in the form of specific types, for medium-term performance development among promising football talents, and thus provide valuable clues for the selection and promotion of those.

La eficacia de rol, la claridad de rol y el rendimiento en jóvenes futbolistas / Role efficacy, role clarity and performance in youth footballers / Eficácia e clareza de papel e o rendimento em jovens futebolistas / Eficácia e clareza de papel e o rendimento em jovens futebolistas

El objetivo del trabajo fue doble: 1) Analizar las relaciones entre la eficacia de rol, la claridad de rol y el desempeño efectivo del rol como un indicador subjetivo del rendimiento; y 2) Examinar el papel de la claridad de rol como variable moduladora de la relación entre la eficacia de rol y el rendimiento, ambos objetivos en situaciones de ataque y de defensa en el fútbol. Doscientos noventa y cinco futbolistas varones de entre 12 y 16 años (M = 14.01, DE = 1.09) completaron los cuestionarios que evaluaban las variables del estudio. Los resultados mostraron que aquéllos que percibían una claridad de rol alta también percibían una eficacia de rol alta y un desempeño del rol alto. Además se confirmó el papel modulador de la claridad de rol en las funciones defensivas, concretamente, la eficacia de rol resultó ser un predictor positivo del rendimiento siempre y cuando la claridad de rol fuera alta

O objectivo do trabalho foi duplo: 1) Analisar as relações entre a eficácia de papel, a clareza de papel e o desempenho efectivo do papelcomo indicador subjectivo do rendimento; e 2) Examinar a função da clareza de papel como variável moderadora da relação entre a eficácia do papel eo rendimento, ambos objectivos em situações de ataque e defesa no futebol. Duzentos e noventa e cinco futebolistas rapazes com idades compreendidasentre os 12 e os 16 anos (M= 14.01, DP= 1.09) preencheram os questionários que avaliavam as variáveis do estudo. Os resultados revelam que aquelesque percebiam uma elevada clareza de papel também percebiam uma elevada eficácia de papel e um elevado desempenho de papel. Adicionalmente,confirmou-se o papel moderador da clareza de papel nas funções defensivas, concretamente, a eficácia de papel revelou ser um preditor positivo dorendimento sempre e quando a clareza de papel era elevada

The aim of this study was twofold: 1) to analyze the relationship between role efficacy, role clarity, and role performance effectiveness as a subjective measure of performance, and 2) to examine role clarity as a moderator of the role efficacy-performance relationship, in both an offensive and defensive context in football. Two hundred and ninety-five male soccer players between 12 and 16 years old (M = 14.01, SD = 1.09) completed the questionnaires assessing the variables of the study. Results showed that the players who reported higher role clarity also reported higher role efficacy and performed better than those with lower role clarity. Also, role clarity was a moderator for defensive role functions; specifically, role efficacy was a positive predictor of performance only when role clarity was high

O objectivo do trabalho foi duplo: 1) Analisar as relações entre a eficácia de papel, a clareza de papel e o desempenho efectivo do papelcomo indicador subjectivo do rendimento; e 2) Examinar a função da clareza de papel como variável moderadora da relação entre a eficácia do papel eo rendimento, ambos objectivos em situações de ataque e defesa no futebol. Duzentos e noventa e cinco futebolistas rapazes com idades compreendidasentre os 12 e os 16 anos (M= 14.01, DP= 1.09) preencheram os questionários que avaliavam as variáveis do estudo. Os resultados revelam que aquelesque percebiam uma elevada clareza de papel também percebiam uma elevada eficácia de papel e um elevado desempenho de papel. Adicionalmente,confirmou-se o papel moderador da clareza de papel nas funções defensivas, concretamente, a eficácia de papel revelou ser um preditor positivo dorendimento sempre e quando a clareza de papel era elevada