Análisisdel Tiempo de Juego Efectivo y de la Posesión de Balón en el Fútbol Femenino Profesional / Análise do Tempo Efetivo de Jogo e Posse de Bola no Futebol Profissional Feminine / Analysis of Effective Playing Time and Possession of the Ball in Professional Female Footbal

Elobjetivo del presente estudio observacional fue describir el tiempo efectivo dejuego en el fútbol femenino profesional a partir de cómo se distribuyó la frecuencia y duración de la posesión de balón. Se analizaron ocho partidos de la Champions League femenina de la temporada 2021-22. El sistema de codificación estuvo compuesto por cuatro categorías: posesión de balón (dentro del balón en juego, BJ) y balón parado (BP), tanto del equipo de referencia como del oponente. Se implementaron un análisis descriptivo, una comparación de medias para las variables independientes (parte (primeray segunda) y lugar (casa y fuera) del partido) y un análisis de secuencialidad. Los resultados fueron que: 1) el BJ tuvo una mayor duración que el BP, en ambas partes y lugares; 2) el número de posesiones por cada BJ decreció a medida que aumentó el númerode posesiones consecutivas (desde 1 a 5 o más); 3) no existieron diferencias en la duración promedio de las posesiones, indistintamente a las partes y el lugar; y, 4) existióvariabilidad en las transiciones entre los BJ y BP con diferente duración. Estos hallazgos podrían ayudar a los cuerpos técnicos y, especialmente, a las/os preparadoras/es en el diseño de tareas que repliquen las dinámicas de juego en el fútbol femenino de élite.(AU)

This observational study aimed to describe the effective playing time based on how the frequency and duration of ball possession were distributed in professional women's football. Eight matches of the Women's Champions League of the 2021-22 season were analyzed. The coding system was made up of four categories: possession of the ball (within the ball in play, BJ) and set piece (BP), both the reference team and the opponent. A descriptive analysis, a comparison of means for the independent variables (half (first and second) and location (home and away) of the match), and a sequential analysis were implemented. The results were that: 1) the BJ had a longer duration than the BP, in both halves and location; 2) the number of possessions per BJ decreased as more consecutive possessions were accumulated (from 1 to 5 or more); 3) there were no differences in the average duration of the possessions, regardless of the havesand the location; and, 4) there was variability in the transitions between the BJ andBP withdifferent duration. These findings could help the coaching staff and, especially, coaches in the design of tasks that replicate the game dynamics in elite women's football.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo observacional foi descrever o tempo efetivo de jogo a partir da distribuição da frequência e duração da posse de bola no futebol feminino profissional. Foram analisadas oito partidas da Liga dos Campeões Feminina da temporada 2021-22. O sistema de codificação foi composto por quatro categorias: posse de bola (dentro da bola em jogo, BJ) e bola parada (BP), tanto da equipa de referência quanto do adversário. Foram implementadas uma análise descritiva, uma comparação de médias para as variáveis independentes (primeira e segunda parte) e localização (casa e fora) da partida) e uma análise sequencial. Os resultados foram que: 1) o BJ teve uma duração maior que o BP, em ambos os trechos e localização; 2) o número de posses por BJ diminuiu à medida que mais posses consecutivas foram acumuladas (de 1 para 5 ou mais); 3) não houve diferenças na duração média das posses, independentemente das partes e do localização; e, 4) houve variabilidade nas transições entre o BJ e oBPcom diferentes durações. Esses achados podem auxiliar as equipes técnicas e, principalmente, os treinadores no desenho de tarefas que reproduzam a dinâmica do jogo no futebol feminino de elite.(AU)

Evaluación del consumo máximo de oxígeno pre y post COVID-19en futbolista de élite en Argentina / Evaluation of maximal oxygen uptake pre- and post-COVID-19 in elite footballers in Argentina

Introducción y objetivos: La infección por SARS-CoV-2 parece provocar en muchos atletas un deterioro funcional delrendimiento cardiopulmonar. Se estudió el impacto post COVID-19 en el sistema cardiopulmonar, a través del test de ergoespirometría máxima, en futbolistas profesionales elite. Material y método: La muestra estuvo compuesta por 10 futbolistas de la primera división AFA (Asociación de Fútbol Argentino), a quienes se realizaron test de consumo de oxígeno máximo (VO2máx) pre y post infección por COVID-19. Las variablesanalizadas fueron VO2máx absoluto y relativo, velocidad aeróbica máxima (VAM), primer umbral ventilatorio (VT1), segundoumbral ventilatorio (VT2), frecuencia cardiaca máxima (FCmáx) y cociente respiratorio (RER). Resultados: El promedio de la edad fue 22,4 ± 6,9 años, masa corporal 71,5 ± 7,1 kg y estatura 176,2 ± 6,9 cm. Los sujetospost COVID-19 disminuyeron significativamente un 18% el VO2VT2 (p =0,028) y el RER disminuyó significativamente 5%(p =0,02). La FCmax, fue la única variable que post COVID-19 se incrementó significativamente 1,8% (p =0,04). No se observaron cambios significativos en la masa corporal; 71,5 ± 7,1 vs 73,9 ± 7,4 (p <0,118), VO2máx 61,7 ± 5,2 vs 59,0 ± 5,1 ml·kg·min-1(p <0,213), VAM 18,7 ± 0,9 vs 18,6 ± 0,5 km·h-1 (p <0,739), VO2VT1 39,2 ± 4,0 vs 37,8 ± 4,3 ml·kg·min-1 (p <0,460), Velocidad alVT1 11,6 ± 0,5 vs 11,8 ± 0,6 (p <0,480) y demás variables. Conclusión: Parece razonable y seguro evaluar a los atletas después de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 con ergoespirometríapara asegurar las condiciones de salud y entrenabilidad. En este tipo de atletas (futbolistas elite), la utilización del segundoumbral ventilatorio (VT2) puede ser utilizado como estrategia para observar cambios pos COVID-19. La disminución hallada,puede estar relacionada más al cese del entrenamiento que al daño cardiopulmonar.(AU)

Introduction and objectives: The SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to cause functional impairment of cardiopulmonaryperformance in many athletes. We studied the post-COVID-19 impact on the cardiopulmonary system, through the maximalergospirometry test, in elite professional soccer players. Material and method: The sample consisted of 10 AFA (Argentine Football Association) first division soccer players, whounderwent pre and post COVID-19 infection maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) tests. The variables analyzed were absolute andrelative VO2max, maximal aerobic speed (MAS), first ventilatory threshold (VT1), second ventilatory threshold (VT2), maximalheart rate (HRmax) and respiratory exercise ratio (RER). Results: The mean age was 22.4 ± 6.9 years, body mass 71.5 ± 7.1 kg and height 176.2 ± 6.9 cm. Post COVID-19 subjects significantly decreased VO2VT2 by 18% (P = 0.028) and RER significantly decreased by 5% (P = 0.02). HRmax was the only variablethat significantly increased post COVID-19 by 1.8% (P = 0.04). No significant changes was observed in body mass 71.5 ± 7.1 vs73.9 ± 7.4 (P< 0.118), VO2max 61.7 ± 5.2 vs 59.0 ± 5.1 ml·kg·min-1 (P<0,213), MAS 18.7 ± 0.9 vs 18.6 ± 0.5 km·h-1 (P<0,739), VO2VT139.2 ± 4.0 vs 37.8 ± 4.3 ml·kg·min-1 (P<0.460), speed al VT1 11.6 ± 0.5 vs 11.8 ± 0.6 (P <0.480) and other variables. Conclusion: It seems reasonable and safe to evaluate athletes after SARS-CoV-2 infection with ergospirometry to ensurehealth conditions and trainability. In this type of athletes (elite soccer players), the use of the second ventilatory threshold(VT2) can be used as a strategy to observe post-COVID-19 changes. The decrease found may be related more to the cessationof training than to cardiopulmonary damage.(AU)

Funcionalidad y fuerza de aductores en jugadores de hockey sobrepatines de alto nivel / Adductor functionality and strength in high-level rink hockey players

Objetivo: Evaluar la fuerza de los músculos aductores y la funcionalidad en jugadores de hockey sobre patines de alto nively su relación con sufrir dolor inguinal (DI) en la temporada anterior. Material y método: Se realizó un estudio transversal donde se registraron los valores de fuerza mediante el Squeeze Test de5 segundos (5SST), y la funcionalidad de la cadera e ingle mediante el cuestionario Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) enuna población de 11 jugadores de hockey sobre patines de alto nivel. Resultados: La prevalencia total de DI fue de 81,8% (en la anterior temporada el 54% sufrió DI), de los cuales un 18,2% llegóa detener la práctica deportiva. La fuerza media para el 5SST es de 254,68N (3,25Nm/kg) y la funcionalidad alcanzó los 90/100puntos en el cuestionario HAGOS para toda la muestra. La fuerza muscular fue similar entre jugadores que habían sufridoDI con pérdida de tiempo durante la última temporada y jugadores sanos en (p =0,261-0,948; g: 0,04-0,85). Se encontrarondiferencias significativas en las siguientes subescalas del cuestionario HAGOS: Dolor, actividades deportivas y recreacionales,y calidad de vida entre ambos grupos (p =0,005-0,042; g: 0,34-2,65; r: 0,3-0,61). Conclusión: Más de la mitad de los jugadores sufrieron DI, de los cuales un tercio llegó a detener su actividad. La funcionalidadmedida a través del HAGOS se erige como el principal indicador que mostró diferencias entre grupos. Los servicios médicosde jugadores jóvenes de hockey sobre patines deberían usar este cuestionario para poder detectar precozmente la aparicióny evitar la progresión de esta lesión.(AU)

Objective: To evaluate adductor strength and groin function in high level rink hockey players and its relationship with groinpain in the previous season. Material and method: A cross-sectional study was performed where hip/groin strength and function was assessed via 5seconds Squeeze Test and Hip and Groin Ouctome Score in 11 high level rink hockey players. Results: Overall prevalence for groin pain was 81.8% (54% of the participants suffered groin pain during the previous season),and 18.2% suffered time-loss groin pain. Mean strength in the 5SST was 254.68N (3.25Nm/Kg) and HAGOS questionnairereached 90/100 points in the whole sample. Similar adductor strength values were observed between healthy athletes andpreviously injured who suffered time-loss groin pain (P=0.261-0.948; g: 0.04-0.85). Statistically significant differences werefound for the following HAGOS subscales: Pain, function, sports and recreational activities, and quality of life between groups(P=0.005-0.042; g: 0.34-2.65; r: 0.3-0.61). Conclusion: More than a half of the participants suffered groin pain, of which one third suffered time-loss groin pain. Functionassessed via HAGOS seems to be the main proxy that discriminates between groups. Medical staff should implement thisquestionnaire to detect and avoid the progression of this injury.(AU)

Perfil antropométrico de judocas de elite argentinos / Anthropometric profile of Argentine elite Judokas

Introducción: el judo es un deporte de combate cuya clasificación competitiva depende del peso corporal, lo cual está destinado a promover competencias parejas y equitativas en cuanto a capacidades físicas se refiere. El avance de las ciencias del entrenamiento y de la nutrición deportiva generó una mejora de la composición corporal en los deportistas, redundando en un aumento de los valores de masa muscular y en una disminución de la masa adiposa. El objetivo del estudio fue estimar la composición corporal de las personas que practican Judo participantes del campeonato nacional argentino del año 2021. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal descriptivo a los/as participantes del campeonato nacional de judo del año 2021. Fueron evaluados un total de 183 judocas (51 mujeres y 132 varones), según el protocolo de medición de la ISAK. Para la determinación de la composición corporal se utilizó el método de fraccionamiento anatómico de cinco componentes de Kerry Ross. Resultados: el promedio de las judocas fue de 30,5% para la masa adiposa y de 44,5% para la masa muscular; no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en los distintos grupos de edad. Los varones obtuvieron un valor promedio de 22,4% para la masa adiposa y 49,1%para la masa muscular; en este caso se encontraron diferencias significativas entre los distintos grupos de edad, tanto para la masa adiposa como para la muscular y la masa ósea. Discusión: se necesitan más estudios con grupos estratificados en función de la división de peso corporal para poder establecer patrones de referencia específicos para el trabajo en ciencias del ejercicio y la nutrición. Conclusión: la optimización de la composición corporal de las personas que practican Judo redunda positivamente en la mejora de las capacidades físicas específicas. Los datos presentados constituyen una referencia específica de utilidad para la evaluación y seguimiento de las personas que practican Judo. La estratificación por grupos etarios y división de peso corporal permitirá delimitar mejor aún los valores de cada categoría de edad. Se considera relevante vincular la composición corporal con las pruebas físicas y los resultados deportivos, a fin de establecer un mejor perfil del judoca argentino. (AU)

Introduction: judo is a combat sport whose competitive classification depends on body weight, intended to promote even and equitable compe-titions in terms of physical abilities. Advances in the sciences of training and sports nutrition have led to an improvement in the body composition of athletes, resulting in an increase in muscle mass and a decrease in adipose mass. This study aimed to estimate the body composition of judo fighters participating in the 2021 Argentine National Championship. Materials and methods: we conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study of participants of the 2021 national judo championship. We evaluated 183 judokas (51 women and 132 men) applying the ISAK measurement protocol. We used the Kerry Ross five-component fractional anatomic method to determine body composition. Results: the average for female judo players was 30.5% for adipose mass and 44.5% for muscle mass; we found no statistically significant diffe-rences in the different age groups. The average value for males was 22.4% for adipose mass and 49.1% for muscle mass; in this case, we found significant differences between the different age groups for adipose mass and muscle and bone mass. Discussion: there is a need for more studies with stratified groups according to body weight division to establish specific reference standards for the work in exercise science and nutrition. Conclusion: the optimization of the body composition of female and male judo players has a positive effect on the improvement of specific physical capacities. The data presented constitute a relevant reference for the evaluation and follow-up of judokas. The stratification by age groups and body weight division will allow a better delimitation of the values of each age category. Linking body composition with physical tests and results is considered relevant to obtain a better profile of the Argentinian judo player. (AU)

Comparing the Effects of Long-Term vs. Periodic Inclusion of Isometric Strength Training on Strength and Dynamic Performances.

ABSTRACT: Lum, D, Joseph, R, Ong, KY, Tang, JM, and Suchomel, TJ. Comparing the effects of long-term vs. periodic inclusion of isometric strength training on strength and dynamic performances. J Strength Cond Res 37(2): 305-314, 2023-This study compared the effects of including isometric strength training (IST) for consecutive 24 weeks (CIST) against a periodic inclusion (PIST) of this mode of training on strength and dynamic performances. Twenty-four floorball athletes (age: 23 ± 2.7 years, stature: 1.74 ± 2.08 m, and body mass: 72.7 ± 14.4 kg) were randomly assigned to the control (CON), CIST, or PIST group. Athletes completed 20-m sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ), and isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) during pre-test and were tested on weeks 6, 12, 18, and 24. All groups performed a similar strength training program twice per week. However, 2 sets of squats were replaced with isometric squat in CIST for all 24 weeks but only on weeks 1-6 and 13-18 for PIST. A significant main effect for time was observed for 5-, 10-, and 20-m sprint time, CMJ height, peak force, peak power, time to take-off, modified reactive strength index, IMTP peak force, relative peak force, and force at 200 milliseconds ( p = <0.001-0.037). Isometric strength training for 24 consecutive weeks resulted in greater improvement in 5-m sprint time than CON at week 24 ( p = 0.024, g = 1.17). Both CIST and PIST resulted in greater improvements in 10-m sprint time than CON at various time points ( p = 0.007-0.038 and 0.038, g = 1.07-1.44 and 1.18, respectively). Isometric strength training for 24 consecutive weeks and PIST resulted in greater improvements in 20-m sprint time than CON at week 6 ( p = 0.007 and 0.025, g = 1.65 and 1.40, respectively). The results showed that the inclusion of IST resulted in greater improvements in sprint performance than CON but no significant difference in all measured variables with PIST.

Effect of Pregnancy in 42 Elite to World-Class Runners on Training and Performance Outcomes.

PURPOSE: The International Olympic Committee expert group on pregnancy has identified a paucity of information regarding training and performance in truly elite athletes. Thus, the purpose of this study was to quantify elite runners' training volume throughout pregnancy and postpartum competition performance outcomes. METHODS: Forty-two elite (>50% competed at the World Championships/Olympic) middle-/long-distance runners' training before, during, and after pregnancy (quality/quantity/type) data (retrospective questionnaire) and competition data (published online) were collected. RESULTS: Running volume decreased significantly ( P < 0.01) from the first trimester (63 ± 34 km·wk -1 ) to the third trimester (30 ± 30 km·wk -1 ). Participants returned to activity/exercise at ~6 wk postpartum and to 80% of prepregnancy training volumes by 3 months. Participants who intended to return to equivalent performance levels postpregnancy, there was no statistical decrease in performance in the 1 to 3 yr postpregnancy compared with prepregnancy, and ~56% improved performances postpregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: This study features the largest cohort of elite runners training and competition outcomes assessed throughout pregnancy, with training volumes being approximately two to four times greater than current guidelines. For the first time, performance was directly assessed (due to the quantifiable nature of elite running), and study participants who intended to return to high-level competition did so at a statistically similar level of performance in the 1- to 3-yr period postpregnancy. Taken together, this article provides much needed insights into current training practices and performance of elite pregnant runners, which should help to inform future training guidelines as well as sport policy and sponsor expectations around return to training timelines and performance.

Universal prevention through a digital health platform reduces injury incidence in youth athletics (track and field): a cluster randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether universal prevention via a digital health platform can reduce the injury incidence in athletics athletes aged 12-15 years and if club size had an influence on the effect of the intervention. METHODS: This was a cluster randomised trial where young athletics athletes were randomised through their club following stratification by club size into intervention (11 clubs; 56 athletes) and control (10 clubs; 79 athletes) groups. The primary endpoint was time from baseline to the first self-reported injury. Intervention group parents and coaches were given access to a website with health information adapted to adolescent athletes and were encouraged to log in and explore its content during 16 weeks. The control group continued training as normal. Training exposure and injury data were self-reported by youths/parents every second week, that is, eight times. The primary endpoint data were analysed using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to analyse the second study aim with intervention status and club size included in the explanatory models. RESULTS: The proportion of completed training reports was 85% (n=382) in the intervention group and 86% (n=545) in the control group. The injury incidence was significantly lower (HR=0.62; χ2=3.865; p=0.049) in the intervention group. The median time to first injury was 16 weeks in the intervention group and 8 weeks in the control group. An interaction effect between the intervention and stratification factor was observed with a difference in injury risk between athletes in the large clubs in the intervention group versus their peers in the control group (HR 0.491 (95% CI 0.242 to 0.998); p=0.049). CONCLUSIONS: A protective effect against injury through universal access to health information adapted for adolescent athletes was observed in youth athletics athletes. The efficacy of the intervention was stronger in large clubs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03459313.

Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Test Positivity in NCAA Division I Student Athletes vs Nonathletes at 12 Institutions.

Importance: The COVID-19 pandemic initially led to the abrupt shutdown of collegiate athletics until guidelines were established for a safe return to play for student athletes. Currently, no literature exists that examines the difference in SARS-CoV-2 test positivity between student athletes and nonathletes at universities across the country. Objective: To identify the difference in risk of COVID-19 infection between student athlete and nonathlete student populations and evaluate the hypothesis that student athletes may display increased SARS-CoV-2 test positivity associated with increased travel, competition, and testing compared with nonathletes at their respective universities. Design, Setting, and Participants: In this cross-sectional analysis, a search of publicly available official university COVID-19 dashboards and press releases was performed for all 65 Power 5 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I institutions during the 2020 to 2021 academic year. Data were analyzed at the conclusion of the academic year. Schools that released at least 4 months of testing data, including the fall 2020 football season, for student athletes and nonathlete students were included in the analysis. Power 5 NCAA Division I student athletes and their nonathlete student counterparts were included in the analysis. Exposure: Designation as a varsity student athlete. Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome was SARS-CoV-2 test positivity for student athletes and nonathlete students at the included institutions for the 2020 to 2021 academic year, measured as a relative risk for student athletes. Results: Among 12 schools with sufficient data available included in the final analysis, 555 372 student athlete tests and 3 482 845 nonathlete student tests were performed. There were 9 schools with decreased test positivity in student athletes compared with nonathlete students (University of Arkansas: 0.01% vs 3.52%; University of Minnesota: 0.63% vs 5.96%; Penn State University: 0.74% vs 6.58%; Clemson University: 0.40% vs 1.88%; University of Louisville: 0.75% vs 3.05%; Purdue University: 0.79% vs 2.97%; University of Michigan: 0.40% vs 1.12%; University of Illinois: 0.17% vs 0.40%; University of Virginia: 0.64% vs 1.04%) (P < .001 for each). The median (range) test positivity in these 9 schools was 0.46% (0.01%-0.79%) for student athletes and 1.04% (0.40%-6.58%) for nonathlete students. In 1 school, test positivity was increased in the student athlete group (Stanford University: 0.20% vs 0.05%; P < .001). Overall, there were 2425 positive tests (0.44%) among student athletes and 30 567 positive tests (0.88%) among nonathlete students, for a relative risk of 0.50 (95% CI, 0.48-0.52; P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference in student athlete test positivity between included schools; however, test positivity among nonathlete students varied considerably between institutions, ranging from 133 of 271 862 tests (0.05%) at Stanford University to 2129 of 32 336 tests (6.58%) at Penn State University. Conclusions and Relevance: This study found that in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 transmission mitigation protocols implemented by the NCAA, participation in intercollegiate athletics was not associated with increased SARS-CoV-2 test positivity. This finding suggests that collegiate athletics may be held without an associated increased risk of infection among student athletes.

Injuries and Overuse Injuries in Show Jumping-A Retrospective Epidemiological Cross-Sectional Study of Show Jumpers in Germany.

This retrospective cross-sectional epidemiological study deals with sport-specific injury patterns in show jumping. A total of 363 show jumpers of all levels (S) answered a retrospective questionnaire about injuries and overuse damages which occurred in the course of their careers. Demographic data and information on injuries in various body regions were collected. In addition to descriptive analysis, significance tests were performed. For better statistical comparability with other sports, exposure time was extrapolated with total career duration and weekly training hours, and injuries per 1000 jumping hours were calculated. The study included 251 (69%) women and 112 (31%) men, who were on average 26.9 ± 10.9 years old. The injury rate for the entire collective was 3.7 per 1000 h of exposure. The most frequently affected body region was the head (31%). Overuse complaints play a subordinate role and mainly affect the upper extremities (65%). The riders of the professional lower performance levels are less likely to injure themselves per 1000 h than riders of the higher performance levels. Riders who often or always wore a helmet suffered significantly fewer head injuries (p = 0.008) and had a significantly lower total injury duration than riders who did not wear a helmet (p = 0.006). Similarly, the study showed that riders who often or always wore a safety vest suffered significantly fewer spinal injuries (p = 0.017) and had significantly fewer injuries per 1000 riding hours (p = 0.031) than riders who did not wear a safety vest. Based on the present results, there should be an extension of the general helmet requirement and a requirement to wear safety vests in show jumping in general.

Determinants of whole-body maximal aerobic performance in young male and female athletes: The roles of lower extremity muscle size, strength and power.

This study sought to determine whether lower extremity muscle size, power and strength could be a determinant of whole-body maximal aerobic performance in athletes. 20 male and 19 female young athletes (18 ± 4 years) from various sporting disciplines participated in this study. All athletes performed a continuous ramp-incremental cycling to exhaustion for the determination of peak oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]: the highest [Formula: see text] over a 15-s period) and maximal power output (MPO: power output corresponding to [Formula: see text]). Axial scanning of the right leg was performed with magnetic resonance imaging, and anatomical cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of quadriceps femoris (QF) and hamstring muscles at 50% of thigh length were measured. Moreover, bilateral leg extension power and unilateral isometric knee extension and flexion torque were determined. All variables were normalised to body mass, and six independent variables ([Formula: see text], CSAs of thigh muscles, leg extension power and knee extension and flexion torque) were entered into a forward stepwise multiple regression model with MPO being dependent variable for males and females separately. In the males, [Formula: see text] was chosen as the single predictor of MPO explaining 78% of the variance. In the females, MPO was attributed to, in the order of importance, [Formula: see text] (p < 0.001) and the CSA of QF (p = 0.011) accounting for 84% of the variance. This study suggests that while oxygen transport capacity is the main determinant of MPO regardless of sex, thigh muscle size also has a role in whole-body maximal aerobic performance in female athletes.

Análisis de función pulmonar en deportistas de alto rendimiento división sub 20 en la ciudad de Pereira 2021 / Lung function analysis in high performance athletes sub division 20 in the city of Pereira 2019

El estudio de la función pulmonar en los deportistas de alto rendimiento es importante para el correcto manejo del entrenamiento y así evitar la frecuencia de la fatiga muscular respiratoria. Lo anterior reviste mayor importancia en el fútbol, debido al elevado esfuerzo desplegado por los deportistas en sus diferentes posiciones. Determinar el efecto del entrenamiento deportivo sobre la función pulmonar en deportistas de fútbol de la división sub-20 de un equipo deportivo local de la ciudad de Pereira. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con 40 deportistas del equipo de fútbol de la división sub-20 de la ciudad de Pereira, Colombia. A todos se les realizó la prueba de espirometría, donde se identificó su función pulmonar teniendo relevancia en la relación VEF1/CVF. Los resultados encontrados refieren que la posición más frecuente en la población estudiada es la de volante, los parámetros recolectados de la relación VEF1/CVF muestran normalidad de su función pulmonar. Los deportistas de alto rendimiento realizan la ventilación a grandes volúmenes de aire corriente y menor frecuencia respiratoria, debido, al constante estímulo a que someten el centro respiratorio y al desarrollo de los músculos respiratorios aumentando la elasticidad tóraco-pulmonar mejorando la mecánica ventilatoria, favoreciendo por tanto la ventilación alveolar, por tal razón es importante incluir dentro del entrenamiento físico y de acondicionamiento, los ejercicios respiratorios.

The study of lung function in high-performance athletes is important for the correct management of training and thus avoiding the frequency of respiratory muscle fatigue. This is more important in soccer, due to the high effort deployed by athletes in their different positions. To determine the effect of sports training on lung function in soccer athletes from the U20 division of a local sports team in the city of Pereira. A descriptive study was carried out with 40 athletes from the soccer team of the sub20 division of the city of Pereira, Colombia. All of them underwent the spirometry test, where their lung function was identified, having relevance in the FEV1 / CVF relationship. The results found refer that the most frequent position in the study population is that of a steering wheel, the parameters collected from the FEV1 / FVC ratio show normal lung function. High-performance athletes perform ventilation with large volumes of running air and a lower respiratory rate, due to the constant stimulation of the respiratory center and the development of the respiratory muscles, increasing thoracopulmonary elasticity, improving ventilatory mechanics, favoring Both alveolar ventilation, for this reason it is important to include breathing exercises within physical training and conditioning.

The Association Between Concussion History and Increased Symptom Severity Reporting Is Independent of Common Medical Comorbidities, Personality Factors, and Sleep Quality in Collegiate Athletes.

OBJECTIVE: We investigated the degree to which the association between history of concussion with psychological distress and general symptom severity is independent of several factors commonly associated with elevated symptom severity. We also examined whether symptom severity endorsement was associated with concussion injury specifically or response to injury in general. SETTING: Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS: Collegiate athletes ( N = 106; age: M = 21.37 ± 1.69 years; 33 female) were enrolled on the basis of strict medical/psychiatric exclusion criteria. DESIGN: Cross-sectional single-visit study. Comprehensive assessment, including semistructured interviews to retrospectively diagnose the number of previous concussions, was completed. Single-predictor and stepwise regression models were fit to examine the predictive value of prior concussion and orthopedic injuries on symptom severity, both individually and controlling for confounding factors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Psychological distress was operationalized as Brief Symptom Inventory-18 Global Severity Index (BSI-GSI) ratings; concussion-related symptom severity was measured using the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool. RESULTS: Controlling for baseline factors associated with the symptom outcomes (agreeableness, neuroticism, negative emotionality, and sleep quality), concussion history was significantly associated with psychological distress ( B = 1.25 [0.55]; P = .025, Δ R2 = 0.034) and concussion-like symptom severity ( B = 0.22 [0.08]; P = .005, Δ R2 = 0.064) and accounted for a statistically significant amount of unique variance in symptom outcomes. Orthopedic injury history was not individually predictive of psychological distress ( B = -0.06 [0.53]; P = .905) or general symptom severity ( B = 0.06 [0.08]; P = .427) and did not explain the relationship between concussion history and symptom outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Concussion history is associated with subtle elevations in symptom severity in collegiate-aged athletes; this relationship is independent of medical, lifestyle (ie, sleep), and personality factors. Furthermore, this relationship is associated with brain injury (ie, concussion) and is not a general response to injury history.

Application of the Athlete Biological Passport Approach to the Detection of Growth Hormone Doping.

CONTEXT: Because of its anabolic and lipolytic properties, growth hormone (GH) use is prohibited in sport. Two methods based on population-derived decision limits are currently used to detect human GH (hGH) abuse: the hGH Biomarkers Test and the Isoforms Differential Immunoassay. OBJECTIVE: We tested the hypothesis that longitudinal profiling of hGH biomarkers through application of the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) has the potential to flag hGH abuse. METHODS: Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and procollagen III peptide (P-III-NP) distributions were obtained from 7 years of anti-doping data in elite athletes (n = 11 455) and applied as priors to analyze individual profiles from an hGH administration study in recreational athletes (n = 35). An open-label, randomized, single-site, placebo-controlled administration study was carried out with individuals randomly assigned to 4 arms: placebo, or 3 different doses of recombinant hGH. Serum samples were analyzed for IGF-1, P-III-NP, and hGH isoforms and the performance of a longitudinal, ABP-based approach was evaluated. RESULTS: An ABP-based approach set at a 99% specificity level flagged 20/27 individuals receiving hGH treatment, including 17/27 individuals after cessation of the treatment. ABP sensitivity ranged from 12.5% to 71.4% across the hGH concentrations tested following 7 days of treatment, peaking at 57.1% to 100% after 21 days of treatment, and was maintained between 37.5% and 71.4% for the low and high dose groups 1 week after cessation of treatment. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that longitudinal profiling of hGH biomarkers can provide suitable performance characteristics for use in anti-doping programs.

Athletic Trainer-Reported Prevalence of Mental Health, Substance Use, and Barriers to Health in Secondary Schools.

CONTEXT: Where a person lives can have a significant effect on health. Limited access to health care, food insecurity, lack of affordable housing, and violence increase a person's likelihood of poor health. Athletic trainers (ATs) can contribute to identifying and improving the determinants of health that affect student-athletes. OBJECTIVES: (1) What were the current perceptions ATs had about the health behaviors (specifically mental health and substance use) of high school student-athletes? (2) What were the barriers that ATs experienced when providing health services to high school student-athletes? (3) How did the developed environment affect the health behaviors and barriers that ATs observed? DESIGN: Qualitative study. SETTING: Online survey. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS: Certified National Athletic Trainers' Association members employed in the secondary school setting. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Demographics of ATs were collected, and the ATs' perceptions of the health of student-athletes across developed environments, prevalence of mental health issues, tobacco and substance use, barriers to health care services, and housing and food insecurities among student-athletes were surveyed. Descriptive statistics for the outcome measures were reported. RESULTS: A total of 7600 electronic surveys were distributed to the ATs and 911 responded (females = 62%, average age = 36 years, average experience = 12.5 years). The school setting was identified by 82.5% as public and the environment as suburban by 43.7%, rural by 30.1%, and urban by 26.1%. Participants perceived a high average prevalence of mental health concerns (32%), e-cigarette use (31.7%), and marijuana use (26.9%) among student-athletes. Significant perceived barriers to health included limited access to transportation, poverty, and housing and food insecurities. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the health disparities and barriers ATs observed when addressing the health care needs of student-athletes. Understanding the determinants of health in order to identify the causes of health disparities may better prepare ATs to manage the health needs of underserved student-athletes.

An analysis of temporal numerical superiority in the pan-american junior men's water polo matches / Análise da superioridade numérica temporal no pan-americano júnior de polo aquático masculino

ABSTRACT This study compared the frequency, number of goals and attack efficiency in temporal numerical superiority among winning and losing teams and among balanced and unbalanced matches in a junior men's water polo competition. Another analysed relationship was that between a balanced or unbalanced final score and the efficiency at scoring goals in numerical superiority in the winning teams' games. A total of 56 matches from the Pan-American Junior Men's Water Polo championship was analysed. The teams were categorised as losers or winners and the match results were classified as balanced or unbalanced. The chi-squared and Mann-Whitney tests were used for statistical treatment. There is no significant difference in the occurrence of numerical superiority between winners and losers (p = 0.25) despite the winners scoring more goals (p = 0.002) and being more efficient (p < 0.001). There is no significant difference in the occurrence of numerical superiority (p = 0.81) and goals (p = 0.03) in balanced and unbalanced matches. However, there tends to be a higher shot efficiency (p = 0.01) in unbalanced matches. A significant relationship exists (p = 0.04) between the winning teams' efficiency at scoring goals in a situation of numerical superiority and an unbalanced score.

RESUMO Esse estudo teve por objetivo comparar a frequência, a quantidade de gols e a eficiência do ataque em superioridade numérica temporal entre equipes vencedoras e perdedoras e entre partidas equilibradas e desequilibradas em competição júnior de polo aquático masculino. Também foi testada a relação entre a ocorrência do placar equilibrado ou desequilibrado com a eficiência em realizar gols em superioridade numérica nos jogos das equipes vencedoras. Foram analisadas 56 partidas do Campeonato Pan Americano Júnior de Polo Aquático Masculino. As equipes foram classificadas como perdedoras ou vencedoras e o resultado da partida como equilibrado ou desequilibrado. Teste Mann-Whitney e o qui-quadrado foram utilizados. Não há diferença significativa na ocorrência de superioridade numérica entre vencedores e perdedores (p = 0,25) apesar dos vencedores fazerem mais gols (p = 0,002) e serem mais eficientes (p < 0,001). Não há diferença significativa na ocorrência de superioridade numérica (p = 0,81) e de gols (p = 0,03) nas partidas equilibradas e desequilibradas. Entretanto, nas partidas desequilibradas encontrou-se maior eficiência no arremesso (p = 0,01). Foi encontrado relação significativa (p = 0,04) entre a eficácia das equipes vencedoras em realizar gol em superioridade numérica com o placar desequilibrado.

Asymmetry and changes in the neuromuscular profile of short-track athletes as a result of strength training.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to identify the biomedical signals of short-track athletes by evaluating the effects of monthly strength training on changes in their neuromuscular profile, strength, and power parameters of the lower limb muscles. Muscle asymmetry, which can cause a risk of injury, was also evaluated. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study involved female athletes, age 18.8 ± 2.7 years, with a height of 162 ± 2.4 cm, and weight of 55.9 ± 3.9 kg. Before and after the monthly preparatory period prior to the season, strength measurements were assessed through the Swift SpeedMat platform, and reactivity of the lower limb muscles was assessed with tensiomyography (TMG). The athletes were also tested before and after the recovery training period. In the test after strength training, all average countermovement jump (CMJ) results improved. Flight time showed an increase with a moderate to large effect, using both legs (5.21%). Among the TMG parameters, time contraction (Tc) changed globally with a decrease (-5.20%). Changes in the results of the test after recovery training were most often not significant. CONCLUSION: A monthly period of strength training changes the neuromuscular profile of short-track female athletes, with no significant differences between the right and left lower limbs.

Differences in anthropometric variables and muscle strength in relation to competitive level in male handball players.

Somatic characteristics manifested in different body morphology have great importance for the selection of athletes in most sports. The aim of our study is to evaluate the differences in anthropometric variables and isometric strength of handball players presenting different levels of sports competence, and to study the discriminative power of selected morphological characteristics that do not change in the training process. The study included the results of anthropometric measurements routinely used to monitor athletes, and body proportion indices were calculated. Fat percentage was assessed using the BIA, whereas body build was assessed using the Heath-Carter method. Measurements of right and left hand grip strength and back strength were taken. The results of measurements and calculations were analyzed using statistical methods. It was shown that players presenting the highest level dominate by the overall size and massiveness of the body, characteristics ensuring an advantage in direct confrontation. The size of subcutaneous fat tissue and percentage of body fat varied poorly between athletes in each group. Muscle strength assessed under static conditions shows a gradient in magnitude across teams from higher to lower rank, but the differences are not statistically significant. The same somatotype (balanced mesomorph) was present in all groups. Athletes presenting high sports level are characterized by body proportions that determine biomechanical conditions conducive to optimizing the structure of movements important in handball. Stepwise discriminant analysis showed that throwing-related characteristics (hand length, upper arm length, upper limb span, lower limb length) account for 88% of the variance in team ranking and can be used to identify the morphological predisposition of adepts to play handball.