Prevalence of Skin Injuries in Beach Volleyball Athletes in Greece.

Background: Skin injuries often affect the sports community. Almost every type of athletic activity is associated with traumatic skin injuries, such as surface wounds, bruising, abrasions, subcutaneous hematomas, blunt trauma, nail injuries, friction burns, and blisters. Methods: The aim of this study was to assess the rates, location sites, and seasons of appearance of skin injuries in beach volleyball athletes in Greece. Seven hundred and eighty-five beach volleyball athletes participated in this study. The average age was 28.4 years. Skin injuries included superficial wounds (erosions, incisions, lacerations), deep wounds, hematomas, nail lacerations, friction burns, and friction blisters. The recorded variables encompassed gender, age, the time of year when athletes might be at higher risk of injuries, and the specific body regions affected. Additionally, data regarding training details such as years of practice, weekly training frequency, and daily training duration were also documented. Results: Incidence rates correlated to gender: (a) superficial wounds (p < 0.001), (b) years of training: hematomas (p < 0.001), and (c) average hours of daily training: superficial wounds (p < 0.001), deep wounds (p < 0.001), and friction blisters (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although early detection, recognition, and treatment are essential, the prevention of skin injuries can also be linked to health and athletic performance.

A single session of a beach volleyball exergame did not improve state anxiety level in healthy adult women.

This study evaluated the acute effect of the exergame Kinect Sports® beach volleyball on state anxiety level in adult women. Thirty healthy adult women (age: 21 [4] years, body mass: 54.70 [19.50] kg, height: 1.61 ± 0.05 m, and body mass index: 21.87 [5.76] kg/m2, data are expressed as median [interquartile range] and as the mean ± standard deviation) were assigned to play an exergame of beach volleyball in singleplayer mode session (intervention session) for ~ 30 min using the Xbox 360 Kinect® or remained seated (control session). State anxiety was evaluated before and after the intervention and control sessions through the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. State anxiety obtained in both sessions (exergame and control) was classified as intermediate before (median: 36.00 [IQR: 4.75] and mean = 38.73 ± 7.23, respectively) and after (mean: 34.86 ± 6.81 and mean: 37.66 ± 8.44, respectively). Friedman test found no time significant effect on state anxiety of the sessions (χ2 [3] = 6.45, p-value = 0.092, Kendall's W = 0.07 "trivial"). In conclusion, the present study showed that there were no significant differences in the state anxiety level after an acute session of the exergame beach volleyball.

KEY POINTS: • Exergame beach volleyball presented high enjoyment and a moderate to strong future engagement possibility. • A session of the volleyball exergame did not improve affectivity and state anxiety level compared with control condition. • A session of the volleyball exergame elicited moderate physical exercise intensity.

Midterm Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Olympic Volleyball Players: Return to Sports and Return to Performance.

Background: The decision-making process and predicting the time to return to sport (RTS) and return to performance (RTP) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) in elite volleyball players are difficult issues to address, even among experienced shoulder surgeons. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the results in Olympic-level volleyball players treated with arthroscopic supraspinatus repair and to report the RTS and the RTP. It was hypothesized that these athletes had higher RTS and faster RTP. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This study included 17 elite volleyball athletes (11 male, 6 female; mean age, 26.2 years) who underwent ARCR for partial- and full-thickness supraspinatus tears that did not improve despite nonoperative treatment. The clinical results were evaluated at 12 months postoperatively. The authors compared the athletes' preoperative, 6-month, and 12-month Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) scores and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain after competition and conducted 6- and 12-month isometric strength analyses. The athletes' RTS and RTP times were recorded. Results: All tears were on the dominant side (15 right, 2 left), and 82% were partial tears (14 partial thickness, 3 full thickness). The mean time from the onset of symptoms to surgery was 11.3 ± 6.7 months. While the mean Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score was 31 preoperatively, it was 89 after 6 months (P < .001 vs preoperative) and 96 after 12 months (P = .003 vs 6 months). The mean VAS for pain was 7.9 preoperatively, 0.4 at 6 months (P < .001 vs preoperative), and 0.1 at 12 months (P = .02 vs 6 months). All athletes were able to reach their preinjury level, with RTS at a mean of 6.9 months and RTP at a mean of 12.4 months. Conclusion: ARCR appears to be an effective option for Olympic-level volleyball players who do not benefit from nonoperative treatment. All athletes returned to their preinjury level of sports. The surgeon and athlete can plan surgical decision-making and timing based on the mean RTS time of 6.9 months and mean RTP time of 12.4 months.

Anthropometric profile and body composition of the Mexican olympic beach volleyball team / Perfil antropométrico y composición corporal de la selección olímpica mexicana de voleibol de playa

SUMMARY: The present research corresponds to a cross-sectional descriptive study in the anthropometric field, which allows coaches to develop standards to identify talent and optimize training in the discipline of beach volleyball. Its objective was to define the anthropometric profile and body composition of the Mexican Olympic beach volleyball teams in both sexes. The participants were couples one and two of Mexico in both sexes (defined by FIVB ranking), 4 women and 4 men with average age of 30.25±6.85 and 27.25±7.36 years. The technique used was Heath-Carter´s somatotype method and the anthropometric profile restricted ISAK protocol. Among the findings resulting from the research, unification can be observed in the male morphological characteristics (triceps skinfold, front thigh skinfold, calf skinfold, circumference of relaxed and contracted arm, waist, hip, femur diameter and BMI), as for the somatotype, both sexes of Mexican couples are positioned in mesomorphs-balanced. In relation to other studies consulted, balance in somatotype and muscular development is observed with high performance teams. Weight and height, as well as age, are important variables for the selection of talent and future optimal performance in world and professional volleyball.

La presente investigación corresponde a un estudio descriptivo transversal en el campo antropométrico, que permite a los entrenadores desarrollar estándares para identificar talentos y optimizar el entrenamiento en la disciplina de voleibol de playa. Su objetivo fue definir el perfil antropométrico y la composición corporal de las selecciones olímpicas mexicanas de voleibol de playa en ambos géneros. Los participantes fueron las parejas uno y dos de México en ambos géneros (definidos por ranking Fédération Internationale de Volleyball), 4 mujeres y 4 hombres con edad promedio de 30.25±6.85 y 27.25±7.36 años. La técnica utilizada fue el método del somatotipo de Heath-Carter y el protoolo ISAK del perfil antropométrico restringido. Entre los hallazgos resultantes de la investigación, se puede observar una unificación en las carácteristicas morfológicas masculinas (pliegue cuatáneotricipital, pliegue cutáneo anterior del muslo, pliegue citáneo de la pantorrila, circunferencia del brazo relajado y contraído, cintura, cadera, diámetro del fémur e IMC), en cuanto al somatotipo, ambos sexos de las parejas mexicanas se posicionan en mesomorfos-equilibrados. En relación a otros estudios consultados, se observa equilibrio en somatotipo y desarrollo muscular con equipos de alto rendimiento. El peso y la altura, así como la edad, son variables importantes para la selección del talento y en el futuro desempeño óptimo en el voleibol mundial y profesional.

Gaze behavior in social interactions between beach volleyball players-An exploratory approach.

Previous research has indicated that social interactions and gaze behavior analyses in a group setting could be essential tools in accomplishing group objectives. However, only a few studies have examined the impact of social interactions on group dynamics in team sports and their influence on team performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of game performance pressure on the gaze behavior within social interactions between beach volleyball players during game-like situations. Therefore, 18 expert beach volleyball players conducted a high and a low game performance pressure condition while wearing an eye tracking system. The results indicate that higher game performance pressure leads to more and longer fixation on teammates' faces. A higher need for communication without misunderstandings could explain this adaptation. The longer and more frequent look at the face could improve the receiving of verbal and non-verbal information of the teammate's face. Further, players showed inter-individual strategies to cope with high game performance pressure regarding their gaze behavior, for example, increasing the number of fixations and the fixation duration on the teammate's face. Thereby, this study opens a new avenue for research on social interaction and how it is influenced in/through sport.

Spike Arm Swing Techniques of Olympics Male and Female Elite Volleyball Players (1984-2021).

In the last decades, indoor volleyball has experienced significant rule changes and a high player specialization in both sexes. Different spike attack arm swing techniques have developed which might affect performance and risk of injury. While a variety of arm swing techniques was already shown in world class beach volleyball players, it is unclear if this is also true for world class indoor volleyball. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the spike attack arm swing techniques of Olympic volleyball winners and finalists (1984-2021) and to investigate possible differences between sex, playing position, scoring system, and compared to beach volleyball. Eighty-two male (M) and 85 female (F) players were assessed from video recordings from ten competitions. Five different arm swing techniques in the cocking phase (Straight, Bow-and-arrow high, Bow-and-arrow low, Snap, Circular) were classified by two experts. The most frequent technique for both sexes was the Circular (M = 40.2%; F = 38.8%), followed by Snap (M = 28.0%; F = 23.5%), Bow-and-arrow low (M = 20.7%; F = 21.2%), Bow-and-arrow high (M = 7.3% F = 11.8%), and Straight (M = 3.7%; F = 4.7%). Bow-and-arrow high and Straight techniques were significantly less used than other techniques in both sexes. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in arm swing techniques between sexes, playing positions, and scoring system but significant differences (p < 0.001) to beach volleyball. Although most volleyball textbooks only describe the Bow-and-arrow techniques, most of the world class indoor volleyball players used Circular and Snap arm swing techniques. Reasons for that could be the implicit knowledge of players (and coaches) regarding increased performance (ball speed) and injury prevention. Based on these results we suggest to critically revise arm swing technique training especially for young players and players with shoulder problems.

Fatores determinantes para a excelência no vôlei de praia: o caso de uma dupla de elite / Determining factors for excellence in beach volleyball: the case of an elite pai / Factores determinantes de laexcelenciaenel voleibol de playa: el caso de una pareja de élite

O objetivo deste estudo foi conhecer os fatores determinantes na aquisição, desenvolvimento e manutenção da excelência no Vôlei de Praia (VP) a partir da percepção de uma dupla de atletas de elite e seu técnico. Trata-se de um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa dos resultados que se utilizou da entrevista e análise documental para recolha dos dados. Sobre os fatores determinantes da excelência no VP destacaram-se nos fatores primários, o aspecto psicológico, verificado nos elementos disciplina, força de vontade, motivação e foco, seguido pelo tempo de parceria e da preparação física iniciada (prática deliberada). Enquanto nos fatores secundários, o apoio, técnico, infraestrutura, qualidade de material esportivo e financeiro. Conclui-se que a junção dos fatores primários e secundários descritos acima foi essencial para aquisição, desenvolvimento emanutenção da excelência no VP.

The objective of this study was to know the determining factors in the acquisition, development and maintenance of excellence in Beach Volleyball (VP) from the perception of a pair of elite athletes and theircoach. This is a case study with a qualitative approach to the results that used the interview and document analysis for data collection. Regarding the determining factors of excellence in the VP, the psychological aspect stood out in the primary factors,verified in the elements discipline, willpower, motivation and focus, followed by the partnership time and the physical preparation started (deliberate practice). While in secondary factors, support, technical, infrastructure, quality of sports and financial equipment. It is concluded that the combination of the primary and secondary factors described above was essential for the acquisition, development and maintenance of excellence in PV.

El propósito de este estudio fue conocer los factores determinantes en la adquisición, desarrollo y mantenimiento de la excelencia en el Voleibol de Playa (VP) a partir de la percepción de una pareja de deportistas de élite y su entrenador. Este es un estudio de caso con enfoque cualitativo de los resultados que utilizó la entrevista y el análisis de documentos para la recolección de datos. En cuanto a los determinantes de la excelencia en la PV, el aspecto psicológico se destacó en los factores primarios, verificado en los elementos disciplina, fuerza de voluntad, motivación y enfoque, seguido del tiempo de compañerismo y la preparación física iniciada (práctica deliberada). Mientras que en factores secundarios, soporte, técnico, infraestructura, calidad del equipamiento deportivo y financiero. Se concluye que la combinación de los factores primarios y secundarios descritos anteriormente fue fundamental para la adquisición, desarrollo y mantenimiento de la excelencia en el VP.

The Relationship between Speed and Strength in the Beach Volleyball Serve.

The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between isometric force produced in different joints and its effects on the power kick serve speed in beach volleyball as a predictive aspect to improve sports performance. Seven athletes competing at national and international levels (mean ± standard deviation; age: 21.6 ± 3.20 years; body height: 1.87 ± 0.08 cm; body mass 80.18 ± 7.11 kg) were evaluated using maximum isometric force contractions (i.e., spinal and knee extension, grip by a hand dynamometer (handgrip), internal shoulder rotation, shoulder flexion, elbow flexion and extension, and wrist flexion). Speed of the ball was recorded with a pistol radar and force was measured with a strain gauge. Results showed a relationship between isometric force developed in the internal rotation of the shoulder and speed of the ball (r = 0.76*; p < 0.05). In the remaining isometric exercises, positive low to moderate correlations were found in the spine and knee extension (r = 0.56; p = 0.200) and elbow flexion (r = 0.41; p = 0.375). On the other hand, the remaining isometric exercises obtained weak or non-significant correlations. Force developed in the internal rotation of the shoulder highly correlated with the speed of the power kick, explaining, together with the elbow flexion and the extension of the knee and back, much of the variability of the power kick of beach volleyball athletes.

Fases típicas del voleibol de playa en el sexo masculino. Valores de referencia en la iniciación / Fases típicas do vôlei de praia masculino. Valores de referência na iniciação / Typical phases of beach volleyball male sex. Reference values at the initiation

RESUMEN Actualmente, es cada vez más importante estudiar la actividad competitiva en los procesos de preparación deportiva. En voleibol de playa, desde las categorías de iniciación, los entrenadores deben centrar la preparación en aspectos de rendimiento propios y determinantes para obtener el máximo resultado competitivo. Para ello, es importante modelar el entrenamiento en un contexto lo más cercano posible a la realidad del juego en cada categoría. Sin embargo, apenas se conocen los valores de referencia de la categoría de iniciación de base en Cuba. Los estudios actuales se dirigen fundamentalmente al más alto nivel de competición. En tal sentido, el conocimiento de los valores de rendimiento relativos a las fases típicas del juego y las situaciones especiales en esta modalidad, resultan vitales para un entrenamiento preciso desde la etapa de iniciación. La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar el comportamiento de las Fases Típicas del Juego (FTJ) del voleibol de playa, categoría 11-12 años, sexo masculino, en el campeonato provincial de Villa Clara en 2019, como valores de referencia de la etapa de iniciación. Se utilizaron métodos como la observación estructurada, revisión documental, estadístico-matemático y talleres metodológicos como técnicas de investigación. Se determinó la frecuencia de aparición de dichas fases, su incidencia y efectividad en el juego, importantes elementos que constituyen valores referenciales para los entrenadores en su proceso de planificación y modelación del entrenamiento en este nivel de competición.

RESUMO Hoje em dia, é cada vez mais importante estudar a atividade competitiva nos processos de preparação esportiva. No vôlei de praia, a partir das categorias de iniciação, os treinadores devem concentrar a preparação nos aspectos de desempenho que são determinantes para obter o máximo resultado competitivo. Para isso, é importante modelar o treinamento em um contexto o mais próximo possível da realidade do jogo em cada categoria. No entanto, os valores de referência para a categoria de iniciação básica em Cuba são pouco conhecidos. Os estudos atuais são destinados principalmente ao mais alto nível de competição. Neste sentido, o conhecimento dos valores de desempenho relacionados com as fases típicas do jogo e as situações especiais nesta modalidade são vitais para um treinamento preciso desde a fase de iniciação. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi determinar o comportamento das Fases Típicas do Jogo (FTJ) do vôlei de praia, 11-12 anos, categoria masculina, no campeonato provincial de Villa Clara em 2019, como valores de referência da fase de iniciação. Métodos como observação estruturada, revisão documental, oficinas de matemática estatística e metodológica foram utilizados como técnicas de pesquisa. A frequência da ocorrência dessas fases, sua incidência e eficácia no jogo foram determinadas, elementos importantes que constituem valores de referência para os treinadores em seu processo de planejamento e modelagem de treinamentos neste nível de competição.

ABSTRACT Currently, the study of competitive activity is becoming increasingly important in the sport preparation process. Since the initiation categories in the beach volleyball, coaches should focus their preparation on the performance of own and decisive aspects to obtain the maximum competitive result. For this, it is important to model the training in a context as close as possible to the reality of the game in each category. However, hardly they known the reference values of the initiation category in Cuba. Studies primarily aimed at the highest level of competition. In this sense, the knowledge of the performance values related to the typical phases of the game and the special situations in this modality are vital for a precise training since the initiation phase. This research aimed to determine the behavior of the Game Typical Phases (FTJ in Spanish) in the beach volleyball, category 11-12 years old, male sex in the Provincial championship of Villa Clara in 2019, as reference values in the initiation stage. There were used methods such as structured observation, documentary review, the statistical - mathematical, and methodological workshops as research technique. It was determined the frequency of appearance of these phases, their incidence and effectiveness in the game, important elements that constitute referential values for the coaches in their planning and modeling process of the training of the players at this competition level.

Content validity of scenes from declarative tactical knowledge test for attack situation in beach volleyball - DTKAT-BV / Validação de conteúdo do teste de conhecimento tático declarativo para a situação de ataque no voleibol de praia ­ TCTDA-VP / Validación de contenido del test de conocimiento táctico declarativo para la situación de ataque en voleibol de playa ­ TCTDA-VP

The aim of the study was to establish the content validity of scenes from the Declarative Tactical Knowledge Attack Test in Beach Volleyball (DTKAT-VB). Four experts evaluated 32 attack scenes in real situations of BV game through were assessed the Content Validity Coefficient (CVC) through criteria of language clarity, practical relevance and item representativeness. The results showed that all scenes assessed obtained CVC values greater than 0.80 for all criteria[image clarity (CVC - 0.98); practical relevance (CVC - 0.97); item representativeness (CVC ­ 0.94)], except for one scene, which was excluded. The 31 scenes validated using the CVC enables the evaluation of the declarative tactical knowledge, assisting in the planning of the teaching-learning-training processes of beach volleyball athletes (AU).

O objetivo do estudo foi estabelecer a validade de conteúdo das cenas do Teste de Conhecimento Tático Declarativo do Ataque no Voleibol de Praia (TCTDA-VP). Quatro especialistas avaliaram 32 cenas de ataque em situações reais de jogo de VP foram avaliadas pelo Coeficiente de Validade de Conteúdo (CVC) por meio de critérios de clareza de linguagem, relevância prática e representatividade dos itens. Os resultados mostraram que as cenas avaliadas obtiveram valores de CVC maiores que 0,80 para todos os critérios [clareza da imagem (CVC - 0,98); relevância prática (CVC - 0,97); a representatividade do item (CVC - 0,94)], com exceção de uma cena, sendo assim excluída. As 31 cenas validadas por meio do CVC possibilitam a avaliação do conhecimento tático declarativo, auxiliando no planejamento dos processos de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento de atletas do voleibol de praia (AU).

El objetivo del estudio fue estabelecer la validación de contenido de las escenas del Teste de Conocimiento Táctico Declarativo del Ataque en el Voleibol de Playa ­ TCTDA-VP. Cuatro especialistas evaluaron 32 escenas de ataque en situaciones reales de juego de VP através del Coeficiente de Validez de Contenido (CVC) através de criterios de claridad del idioma, relevancia práctica y representatividad del elemento. Los resultados mostraron que para todos los criterios [claridad de imagen (CVC - 0.98); relevancia práctica (CVC - 0.97); representatividad del elemento (CVC - 0,94)], obtuvieron un CVC superior a 0,80, excepto por una escena, quedando así excluida. Las 31 escenas validadas por el CVC possibilitaron la evaluación del conocimiento táctico declarativo ayudando em la planificación de los processos de enseñanza-aprendizaje-treinamiento de los deportistas de voleibol de playa (AU).

Prevalence of Common Viral Skin Infections in Beach Volleyball Athletes.

Viral skin infections often affect the sports community. The aim of this study was to assess the rates, location sites, and seasons of appearance of common viral cutaneous diseases in beach volleyball athletes in Greece. Five hundred and forty-nine beach volleyball athletes participated in this study. The average age was 28.4 years. The viral infections were herpes simplex (type 1), molluscum contagiosum and warts. The measured parameters included: gender, age, the season when athletes may be more susceptible to infections and the location of infection in the body. Practicing information such as the number of training years, number of weekly trainings, and average hours of daily training was also recorded. Incidence rates correlated in relation to age: (a) warts (p < 0.001), molluscum contagiosum (p < 0.001), and herpes simplex (p = 0.001); (b) years of training: warts (p < 0.001), molluscum contagiosum (p < 0.001), and herpes simplex (p = 0.004); (c) average hours of daily training: molluscum contagiosum (p = 0.006) and herpes simplex (p < 0.010). The skin is the largest organ, and the risk of infection should not be underestimated. Prevention, early detection, recognition, and treatment are related to health and athletic performance, but also to the risk of transmission.

Content validity of scenes from declarative tactical knowledge test for attack situation in beach volleyball - DTKAT-BV / Validação de conteúdo do teste de conhecimento tático declarativo para a situação de ataque no voleibol de praia ­ TCTDA-VP / Validación de contenido del test de conocimiento táctico declarativo para la situación de ataque en voleibol de playa ­ TCTDA-VP

The aim of the study was to establish the content validity of scenes from the Declarative Tactical Knowledge Attack Test in Beach Volleyball (DTKAT-VB). Four experts evaluated 32 attack scenes in real situations of BV game through were assessed the Content Validity Coefficient (CVC) through criteria of language clarity, practical relevance and item representativeness. The results showed that all scenes assessed obtained CVC values greater than 0.80 for all criteria[image clarity (CVC - 0.98); practical relevance (CVC - 0.97); item representativeness (CVC ­ 0.94)], except for one scene, which was excluded. The 31 scenes validated using the CVC enables the evaluation of the declarative tactical knowledge, assisting in the planning of the teaching-learning-training processes of beach volleyball athletes.

O objetivo do estudo foi estabelecer a validade de conteúdo das cenas do Teste de Conhecimento Tático Declarativo do Ataque no Voleibol de Praia (TCTDA-VP). Quatro especialistas avaliaram 32 cenas de ataque em situações reais de jogo de VP foram avaliadas pelo Coeficiente de Validade de Conteúdo (CVC) por meio de critérios de clareza de linguagem, relevância prática e representatividade dos itens. Os resultados mostraram que as cenas avaliadas obtiveram valores de CVC maiores que 0,80 para todos os critérios [clareza da imagem (CVC - 0,98); relevância prática (CVC - 0,97); a representatividade do item (CVC - 0,94)], com exceção de uma cena, sendo assim excluída. As 31 cenas validadas por meio do CVC possibilitam a avaliação do conhecimento tático declarativo, auxiliando no planejamento dos processos de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento de atletas do voleibol de praia.

El objetivo del estudio fue estabelecer la validación de contenido de las escenas del Teste de Conocimiento Táctico Declarativo del Ataque en el Voleibol de Playa ­ TCTDA-VP. Cuatro especialistas evaluaron 32 escenas de ataque en situaciones reales de juego de VP através del Coeficiente de Validez de Contenido (CVC) através de criterios de claridad del idioma, relevancia práctica y representatividad del elemento. Los resultados mostraron que para todos los criterios [claridad de imagen (CVC - 0.98); relevancia práctica (CVC - 0.97); representatividad del elemento (CVC - 0,94)], obtuvieron un CVC superior a 0,80, excepto por una escena, quedando así excluida. Las 31 escenas validadas por el CVC possibilitaron la evaluación del conocimiento táctico declarativo ayudando em la planificación de los processos de enseñanza-aprendizaje-treinamiento de los deportistas de voleibol de playa.

Corrigendum: Performance Indicators in Young Elite Beach Volleyball Players.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02712.].

Prueba para evaluar el desarrollo técnico-táctico en jugadores de voleibol de playa de iniciación / Test to evaluate the technical-tactical development in beach volleyball players in initial stage

Resumen El voleibol de playa cubano, en la actualidad, aún no cuenta con su programa integral de preparación del deportista, por lo que los entrenadores han adaptado las formas de evaluación del voleibol, al voleibol de playa, sin tomar en consideración las diferencias entre ambas modalidades. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo establecer una prueba para evaluar el desarrollo técnico-táctico alcanzado por los jugadores de voleibol de playa de iniciación, dando así respuesta a una de las demandas tecnológicas actuales de la Federación cubana de voleibol. Se utilizaron métodos de investigación teóricos (análisis síntesis, inductivo-deductivo y documental), empíricos (entrevistas). Se realizaron talleres metodológicos con entrenadores de voleibol de playa, lo cual permitió el diseño de la prueba, su conformación y, posteriormente, su valoración mediante criterios de especialistas. Se concibe una prueba que tiene en cuenta las características que identifican el juego de voleibol de playa. Los especialistas consultados consideran adecuada la prueba elaborada, a partir de su pertinencia, los parámetros de calidad formal y utilidad práctica que la misma posee. Los resultados obtenidos del diseño y estructuración permitieron concluir que la esencia de este resultado permite evaluar el desarrollo técnico-táctico alcanzado por los jugadores de este deporte en la iniciación, a partir de la indisoluble vinculación entre técnica y táctica.

Abstract Cuban beach volleyball currently does not yet have its Integral Athlete Preparation Program, so the coaches have adapted the evaluation forms of Volleyball to Beach Volleyball without taking into account the differences between both modalities. The objective of the present research is to establish a test to evaluate the technical-tactical development achieved by beach volleyball players, thus responding to one of the current technological demands of the Cuban Volleyball Federation. Theoretical research methods (synthesis, inductive-deductive and documentary analysis) and empirical (interviews) were used. Methodological workshops were carried out with beach volleyball trainers, which allowed the design of the test, its conformation and, later, its evaluation through specialist criteria. A test that takes into account the characteristics that identify the beach volleyball game is conceived. The specialists consulted consider that the test developed is adequate, on the basis of its relevance, the parameters of formal quality and practical usefulness that it possesses. The results obtained from the design and structuring allowed to conclude that the essence of this result permits to evaluate the technical-tactical development reached by the players of this sport in the initiation, from the indissoluble link between technique and tactics.

Performance Indicators in Young Elite Beach Volleyball Players.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze tactical and technical behavior across different ages and genders in young, elite beach volleyball players. METHODS: Forty teams from the Under-18, Under-20, Under-21, and Under-22 from semifinals and finals of the 2016 World Championships and the 2016 European Championship were analyzed. The sample was composed of 69 sets. The variables studied included: Rally time, set time, match time, serve efficacy (standing serve, floating serve, and jump serve), setting efficacy (forearm, overhand, other, and 2nd attack), attack efficacy, and block efficacy. Student's t and Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to analyze specific differences between categories. RESULTS: Significant differences (p < 0.05) in the pass performance, forearm pass in men (from 78.2 to 49.1%), and overhand pass in men (from 12.2 to 40.45%). In addition, in women forearm pass (from 88.5 to 76.3%) and overhand pass in women (from 1.2 to 9.35%). No significant differences in the effectiveness of attack, rally time, serve, and block efficacy. CONCLUSION: Tactical considerations and gender-specific differences in technical variables may be important for training in young players.

Self-reported symptoms and risk factors for digital ischaemia among international world-class beach volleyball players.

The prevalence of ischaemia-related symptoms is remarkably high among elite indoor volleyball players. Since the exposure to sport-specific demands may be higher in beach volleyball compared to indoor volleyball, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of ischaemia-related symptoms and associated risk factors among world-class beach volleyball players. Therefore, a questionnaire survey was performed among beach volleyball players active during the 2013 Grand Slam Beach Volleyball in the Netherlands. In total, 60 of the 128 beach volleyball players (47%) participated: 26 males and 34 females from 17 countries. The self-reported prevalence of cold or blue or pale digits in the dominant hand during or immediately after practice or competition was 38% (n = 23). Two risk factors were independently associated with symptoms of blue or pale digits: more than 14 years playing volleyball (odds ratio (OR) 4.42, 90% confidence interval (90% CI) 1.30-15.07) and sex (female) (OR 4.62, 90% CI 1.15-18.57). In conclusion, the prevalence of symptoms associated with digital ischaemia is high among international world-class beach volleyball players. Female sex and the length of the volleyball career were independently associated with an increased risk of ischaemia-related symptoms. The high prevalence of these seemingly innocuous symptoms and possible associated risk factors warrant regular monitoring since early detection can potentially prevent thromboembolic complications and irreversible tissue damage.

Anatomical glenohumeral internal rotation deficit and symmetric rotational strength in male and female young beach volleyball players.

Beach volleyball is a sport with a high demand of shoulder structures that may lead to adaptations in range of motion (ROM) and strength like in other overhead sports. Despite of these possible alterations, no study evaluated the shoulder adaptations in young beach volleyball athletes. The aim of this study was to compare the bilateral ROM and rotation strength in the shoulders of young beach volleyball players. Goniometric passive shoulder ROM of motion and isometric rotational strength were evaluated in 19 male and 14 female asymptomatic athletes. External and internal ROM, total rotation motion, glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD), external rotation and internal rotation strength, bilateral deficits and external rotation to internal rotation ratio were measured. The statistical analysis included paired Student's t-test and analysis of variance with repeated measures. Significantly lower dominant GIRD was found in both groups (p<0.05), but only 6 athletes presented pathological GIRD. For strength variables, no significant differences for external or internal rotation were evident. Young beach volleyball athletes present symmetric rotational strength and shoulder ROM rotational adaptations that can be considered as anatomical. These results indicate that young practitioners of beach volleyball are subject to moderate adaptations compared to those reported for other overhead sports.

Experiences of returning to elite beach volleyball after shoulder injury.

The purpose of this study was to examine beach volleyball players' experience regarding shoulder injury and how it affects their return to play. To achieve the research aims a qualitative design with semi-structured interviews had been conducted, five elite beach volleyball players, four men and one woman aged 27-42 participated in the study. All participants had suffered a severe shoulder injury, with absence from training and competing for at least 28 days. The findings of this study indicate that it is the individual's inner motivation, together with a clear goal and support from the community, family, teammate and coach that are the most important factors when going through rehabilitation and getting back to playing beach volleyball after a shoulder injury. All participants had been affected by their injury in some way; some of the participants had been affected in a positive way since they had become mentally stronger and had developed better volleyball technique after rehabilitation. The conclusions of this study indicate that there are three distinct factors that increase the chances of getting back to playing beach volleyball after shoulder injury; it is the players' self motivation, together with a clear goal and support from the community.

Systematic review on sports performance in beach volleyball from match analysis / Revisão sistemática sobre a performance desportiva no voleibol de praia a partir da análise do jogo

The present article aimed to perform a systematic review of the available literature in relation to the analysis of sports performance in beach volleyball from match analysis. Web of Science, SportDiscus(, PubMed, Scopus and Academic Search Complete databases were used to identify peer-reviewed published articles. The authors conducted a content analysis according to goals, variables of analysis and methods used in studies. In general, three research lines were determined: analysis of the functional dependence of the game actions and their relation with success, performance according to gender, and the effect of changing the rules on the game performance. In relation to methodology, an evolution from descriptive studies to studies of comparative nature can be seen and, more recently, there has been a focus on predictive nature. This new trend breaks with the research based on simple cause and effect relations , and focuses on the analysis of the game events, namely related to tactical-technical performance indicators, in a non-linear and interactive way, considering the game as a complex and dynamic system. The limitations of the studies analyzed show the need for further studies to in vestigate the identification of game patterns for the different game levels; integration of situational variables in the study of the performance of teams (such as match status and the quality of opposition).

O objetivo deste estudo consistiu numa revisão sistemática da investigação empírica realizada sobre a performance desportiva no voleibol de praia a partir da análise do Jogo. As bases de dados Web of Science, SportDiscus(, PubMed, Scopus e AcademicSearch Complete foram utilizadas para identificar os artigos empíricos com revisão de pares publicados. Procedeu-se a uma análise de conteúdo em função dos objetivos, variáveis de análise e métodos utilizados nos estudos. Em termos gerais, emergem três linhas de investigação: a análise da dependência funcional das ações de jogo e a sua relação com o sucesso, a performance em função do sexo e o efeito da mudança das regras na performance do jogo. Ao nível metodológico, destaca-se uma evolução de estudos descritivos para comparativos e mais recentemente, um enfoque de natureza preditivo. Esta nova tendência rompe com a análise do jogo baseada em relações simples de causa e efeito e aponta para a análise dos eventos do jogo, nomeadamente, ao nível dos indicadores tático-técnicos da performance, de forma não linear e interativa, considerando o jogo como um sistema complexo e dinâmico. As limitações patentes nos estudos analisados projetaram a necessidade de se investigar no futuro: a identificação de padrões de jogo para os diferentes níveis de jogo; a integração de variáveis situacionais no estudo da performance das equipes (isto é, o resultado no momento e a qualidade de oposição).

Características antropométricas de los jugadores españoles de voley playa. Comparación por categorías / Anthropometric characteristics of spanish beach volleyball players. Comparison by categories

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar las características antropométricas del jugador español (hombres y mujeres) de voley playa y comparar el perfil antropométrico de estos deportistas en las diferentes categorías en las que se organiza la competición: Sub-19, Sub-21 y Absoluto. Fueron evaluados 150 jugadores (79 hombres y 71 mujeres) participantes en el Campeonato de España de voley playa celebrado en 2011. La estatura presentó valores que responden, en los hombres, a patrones evolutivos propios de edad y morfotipo (Sub19M: 184,50±6,95 cm; Sub21M: 182,89±7,28 cm; AbsM: 186,93±6,58 cm). Este comportamiento no se repitió entre las mujeres (Sub19F: 169,84±6,46 cm; Sub21F: 173,43±5,98 cm; AbsF: 175,28±6,17 cm). El peso muscular aumentó por cada categoría con diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre AbsM vs. Sub19M (p=0,002), AbsM vs. Sub21M (p=0,001) y Sub21F vs. Sub19F (p=0,02). Los valores de peso corporal y porcentaje graso mostraron diferencias menos relevantes con diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el grupo Sub21F (p=0,003) y el Sub19F (p=0,009). Los jugadores españoles de voley playa Absolutos, tanto hombres como mujeres, presentan un peso corporal y una estatura inferior a la de los jugadores de alto nivel internacional. El peso muscular y el peso graso muestran en ambos sexos, en valores absolutos, valores crecientes con cada categoría de edad, pero no se confirma esta tendencia cuando el parámetro se expresa en porcentajes respecto al peso corporal. El jugador de voley playa tiende a incrementar el valor de la mesomorfia con el cambio de categoría, tanto en hombres (3,33±1,09; 3,77±1,28; 4,28±1,07) como en mujeres (2,75±1,02; 2,86±1,21; 3,36±0,92).

The objective of this study was to determine the anthropometric characteristics of Spanish beach volleyball players (men and women) and compare their anthropometric profile across competition categories: Under 19, Under 21 and Senior. A total of 150 players (79 men and 71 women) participating in the 2011 Spanish Beach Volleyball Championship were assessed. Height values in male players corresponded to development patterns appropriate to age and morphotype (U19M: 184,50±6,95 cm; U21M: 182±7,28 cm; SenM: 186±6,58 cm). This pattern was not repeated in female players (U19W: 169,84±6,46 cm; U21W: 173,43±5,98 cm; SenW: 175,28±6,17 cm). Muscle weight increased by category, with statistically significant differences between SenM vs. U19M (p=0,002), SenM vs. U21M (p=0,001) and U21W vs. U19W (p=0,02). Body weight and fat percentage values showed less pronounced differences, with statistically significant differences between groups U21W (p=0,003) and U19W (p=0,009). Spanish Senior beach volleyball players, both men and women, have lower values for body weight and height than international players. In absolute values, muscle weight and fat weight in both sexes showed increasing values by age category, but this pattern was not confirmed when the parameter was expressed in percentages in relation to body weight. Beach volleyball players tend to increase their mesomorphy value with changes in category, both for men (3,33±1,09; 3,77±1,28; 4,28±1,07) and women (2,75±1,02; 2,86±1,21; 3,36±0,92).