Psychometric Properties of Different Versions of the Body Shape Questionnaire in Female Aesthetic Patients.

The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the psychometric properties (internal consistency and factorial validity) of different versions of the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) in a sample of female aesthetic patients. The sample included 296 women attending aesthetic clinics, with ages ranging between 18 and 70 years (M = 32.23, SD = 11.35) and body mass index between 17.10 and 45.00 kg/m2 (M = 24.70, SD = 4.07). Nine different length versions of the BSQ (BSQ-34, BSQ-32, BSQ-16A, BSQ-16B, BSQ-14, BSQ-8A, BSQ-8B, BSQ-8C and BSQ-8D) were subjected to confirmatory factor analyses, using a robust maximum likelihood estimator. Robust fit indices indicated that the BSQ-8D version was the better-fitting and more parsimonious model (S-Bχ2/df = 1.81, CFI = 0.963, RMSEA = 0.052, SRMR = 0.043). This short version also showed appropriate reliability (McDonald's omega and composite reliability = 0.87) and a very high correlation with the original BSQ-34 version (r = 0.95). In sum, these findings suggest that the BSQ-8D is the most valid, reliable and suitable BSQ version for measuring body shape concerns in female aesthetic patients.

Intervention and mediation effects of a community-based singing group on older adults' perceived physical and mental health: the Sing4Health randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveTo examine short- and long-term effects of a group singing program on older adults' perceived physical and mental health levels, and also investigate subjective well-being (life satisfaction, positive/negative affect and hedonic balance), body balance and serum biomarkers (C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate) as putative mediating mechanisms, controlling for the cognitive status of the participants. Design: The randomized controlled trial included 149 participants (60 to 95 years), allocated to an immediate intervention group (IG) or a wait-list active control group (WLG). The intervention comprised 34 sessions of group singing during 4-months. Main outcome measures: Self-report measures of physical health, anxiety, stress, and depression. Blinded assessments were conducted at baseline, post-intervention (4 months) and follow-up (6 months). Results: Participants in the IG reported a lower decline in perceived physical health after the intervention, as compared to the WLG. These benefits were maintained at follow-up. Singing-related changes in physical and mental health outcomes were mediated via an increase in positive affect. Moderation results showed that participants with very low cognitive functioning reported more anxiety and depression symptoms after the intervention. Conclusions: These findings provide further understanding on the psychological and physical mechanisms and effects of group singing in older adults.

Emotional intelligence and well-being: Associations and sex- and age-effects during adolescence.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have suggested that trait and ability-based measures of emotional intelligence (EI) contribute to the promotion of well-being in adults. However, this relationship has not been sufficiently explored among adolescents. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to: i) investigate the associations between EI dimensions and well-being indicators (self-esteem, life satisfaction and social anxiety) in adolescents; and ii) analyze the effect of sex and age on dimensions of EI. METHODS: The sample consisted of 1066 adolescents (57.9%girls and 42.1%boys), aged between 11 and 18 years (M = 14.36; SD = 1.58). Participants completed sociodemographic and validated psychosocial measures. RESULTS: Correlation analysis indicated that EI dimensions (self-emotion appraisal, use of emotions and regulation of emotions) were positively and moderately correlated with self-esteem and life satisfaction, whereas associations between EI and social anxiety dimensions were small and negative. Boys reported higher levels of self-emotion appraisal, use of emotions and regulation of emotions, whereas girls showed higher levels of other-emotions appraisal. Age was negatively associated with the use of the emotions dimension and positively correlated with the emotional appraisal of others, although both correlation coefficients were small. CONCLUSIONS: Our study findings suggest the need and importance of implementing emotional education practices during adolescence.

Effects of 16-weeks of Pilates on functional autonomy and life satisfaction among elderly women.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Pilates-based mat exercises on functional autonomy and life satisfaction among elderly women. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Caxias do Sul, Brazil in 2015, in which 61 healthy older women were randomized into two groups (experimental group, EG = 31 participants with 64.25 mean years of age, SD = 0.14, and a control group, CG = 30 participants, 63.75 mean years of age; SD = 0.08). The EG participants performed the mat Pilates twice per week, 60-min per session. The same measurements were performed at baseline and after 16 weeks. No significant differences were found between groups at baseline (p > 0.05). In the EG, the following factors were increased after the 16-weeks training period: flexibility of lower limbs, flexibility of upper limbs, strength in lower and upper limbs, aerobic endurance and dynamic balance. This study revealed significant improvements on the life satisfaction scale's score for the EG when compared to the CG, after 16 weeks of intervention. No differences were found between baseline and after 16 weeks on the functional autonomy and life satisfaction scores for the CG. According to the results of this study, it was found that functional autonomy and life satisfaction for elderly women was improved after exposure to 16 weeks of the PM, suggesting this practice helps with healthy aging.

Physical activity levels in Portuguese adolescents: A 10-year trend analysis (2006-2016).

OBJECTIVES: Previous studies have indicated that only a small proportion of Portuguese adolescents attain sufficient levels of physical activity for health. However, it is unknown whether the levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) have changed over a considerable time period in this country. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to examine the 10-year trend changes in self-reported MVPA among adolescents and also investigate differences by sex and age. DESIGN AND METHOD: This study compared two cross-sectional cohorts of youngsters aged 12-18 years, recruited in 2006 (N=1010; 461 boys and 549 girls) and in 2016 (N=1096; 461 boys and 635 girls), using identical procedures and instruments. The outcome variable, MVPA, was assessed by using the PACE+ screening measure. RESULTS: Main results showed a considerable decline in the overall levels of physical activity between 2006 and 2016 (-10.8%), as well as a small and declining proportion of adolescents achieving the international physical activity recommendations (2006: 10.7%; 2016: 8.1%). Age and sex-specific comparisons by time periods indicated that the 13- and 14-year-old male adolescents reported lower levels of MVPA in 2016 than their counterparts in 2006, and that the MVPA decline between the subgroups of 12- and 18-year-olds was higher in girls, in both 2006 and 2016. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides evidence of a secular decrease in self-reported MVPA levels among Portuguese adolescents. These results reinforce the need for interventions and policies aimed at promoting a more active lifestyle throughout adolescence.

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the lived experience component of the Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM).

This study had the following aims: (i) to translate the Spiritual Health and Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM) into Brazilian Portuguese and adapt it to ensure the semantic/conceptual equivalence and content validity of the Brazilian version and (ii) to analyse the psychometric properties-reliability, convergent validity, discriminant validity and factorial validity-of the lived experience component, also called the Spiritual Well-Being Questionnaire (SWBQ), in a calibration sample and in a validation sample of Brazilian adults. The calibration sample comprised 436 subjects, 159 men and 277 women, aged between 18 and 79 years (mean age = 32.20 years; SD = 11.46); the validation study sample comprised 388 subjects, 253 women and 135 men, aged between 18 and 59 years (mean age = 30.59 years; SD = 9.44). All subjects completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brazilian SWBQ and the Psychological Well-being Scale (PWBS). The results provide evidence of the reliability and factorial validity of an oblique four-factor model of a reduced 17-item version but revealed some problems with the convergent validity of the communal and personal factors (average variance extracted < .50). Nonetheless, these results provide evidence that the Brazilian version of the lived experience component of SHALOM (or SWBQb) has good psychometric properties and is a valid method of evaluating the spiritual health of Brazilian adults. Further research is required to establish the convergent and discriminant validity of this reduced version.

Actividad Física y Salud Mental en Adolescentes: El efecto mediador de la autoestima y la satisfacción corporal / Physical Activity and Mental Health in Adolescents: The mediating effect of Self-Esteem and Body Satisfaction

Los posibles mecanismos psicológicos explicativos de la relación entre la actividad física y el bienestar todavía no han sido suficientemente estudiados y probados en la población adolescente. Como tal, este estudio tiene como objetivo investigar los efectos de la práctica de actividad física moderada a vigorosa en las diferentes dimensiones de la salud mental (bienestar psicológico y la ansiedad social), así como los efectos de las variables mediadoras autoestima y satisfacción corporal en esas relaciones. El total de la muestra consistió de 924 adolescentes (530 chicas y 394 chicos) de edades comprendidas entre los 12 y 18 años (M = 10.15, DT = 1.78), divididos aleatoriamente en dos submuestras (calibración y validación) con características similares. El modelo de relaciones directas y indirectas se examinó a través de la técnica de path analysis. Los resultados obtenidos en las submuestras de calibración y validación confirmaron la calidad del ajuste del modelo de relaciones propuesto (CFI y GFI > .95, RMSEA < .065). La autoestima presentó un efecto mediador en la relación de la actividad física con por la mayoría de las dimensiones de bienestar y de ansiedad social, con la excepción del efecto directo entre la actividad física y los propósitos en la vida. Estos resultados se discuten a la luz de investigaciones anteriores, y se incluyen algunas de sus implicaciones prácticas

Possible psychological mechanisms underlying the association between physical activity and mental health have not been sufficiently studied and tested in adolescents. As such, this study aims to investigate the effects of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in different mental health dimensions (psychological well-being and social anxiety), as well, as the mediation effects of self-esteem and body satisfaction between these variables. Participants were 924 adolescents (530 girls and 394 boys) aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 15.10, SD = 1.78), randomly divided into two sub-samples (calibration and validation) with similar characteristics. The direct and indirect relationships model was tested by using the path analysis technique. The obtained results in both sub-samples confirmed the adequacy of the relationships model suggested (CFI e GFI > .95, RMSEA < .065) and supported the mediation effect of self-esteem on nearly all of the well-being and social anxiety dimensions, with the exception of the direct effect of physical activity on purpose in life. These results are discussed in the context of previous findings and practical implications are provided

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the lived experience component of the Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM)

Abstract This study had the following aims: (i) to translate the Spiritual Health and Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM) into Brazilian Portuguese and adapt it to ensure the semantic/conceptual equivalence and content validity of the Brazilian version and (ii) to analyse the psychometric properties—reliability, convergent validity, discriminant validity and factorial validity—of the lived experience component, also called the Spiritual Well-Being Questionnaire (SWBQ), in a calibration sample and in a validation sample of Brazilian adults. The calibration sample comprised 436 subjects, 159 men and 277 women, aged between 18 and 79 years (mean age = 32.20 years; SD = 11.46); the validation study sample comprised 388 subjects, 253 women and 135 men, aged between 18 and 59 years (mean age = 30.59 years; SD = 9.44). All subjects completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brazilian SWBQ and the Psychological Well-being Scale (PWBS). The results provide evidence of the reliability and factorial validity of an oblique four-factor model of a reduced 17-item version but revealed some problems with the convergent validity of the communal and personal factors (average variance extracted < .50). Nonetheless, these results provide evidence that the Brazilian version of the lived experience component of SHALOM (or SWBQb) has good psychometric properties and is a valid method of evaluating the spiritual health of Brazilian adults. Further research is required to establish the convergent and discriminant validity of this reduced version.

Inclusão do equivalente energético do lactato na regressão VO2-intensidade em corrida horizontal e inclinada (10, 5%) / Inclusion of blood lactate O2 equivalent in the VO2-intensity regression at level and 10.5% grade running

Resumo O estudo teve por objetivo analisar o efeito da adição do equivalente energético do lactato sanguíneo com a medida de VO2 durante a corrida em esteira horizontal (0%) e inclinada (10,5%), como forma de estimativa do custo energético da corrida. Treze corredores de meia e longa distância (idade 28,1 ± 4,2 anos; estatura 1,75 ± 0,07 m; massa corporal 65,2 ± 4,9 kg; VO2max 70,3 ± 4,9 ml·kg-1·min-1) cumpriram dois testes em esteira rolante (0% e 10,5%) que incluíram vários estágios em intensidade constante. Foram calculadas para cada atleta as regressões VO2-velocidade, bem como regressões alternativas com a adição de um equivalente energético de 3 ml O2 Eq·kg-1·mM [La-] às medições de VO2. Não se verificou interação significativa entre a adição do equivalente do lactato e a inclinação da esteira. A ANOVA indicou um efeito significativo da adição do equivalente do lactato na inclinação da reta de regressão e na estimativa do custo energético. Os tamanhos do efeito obtidos indicam que este efeito é mais forte na corrida horizontal. Estes resultados sugerem que em testes laboratoriais com corredores treinados se deverá considerar a adição dos valores de VO2 com os equivalentes energéticos do lactato.(AU)

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the influence of adding blood lactate ([La-]) energy equivalent (Eq) to the VO2 measurements during running exercise at different grades (0% and 10.5%) in order to estimate energy cost of running. Thirteen male highly-trained middle- and long-distance runners (age 28.1 ± 4.2 years; stature 1.75 ± 0.07 m; body mass 65.2 ± 4.9 kg; and maximal oxygen uptake 70.3 ± 4.9 ml·kg-1·min-1) volunteered after medical approval and performed two treadmill tests (0% and 10.5% grade) which included several bouts at a constant speed. Individual VO2-speed regressions were determined for each subject and alternative regressions were established by adding an energy equivalent of 3 ml O2 Eq·kg-1·mM [La-] to the mean VO2 values. No significant interaction between [La-] O2 equivalent inclusion and grade running was found. Results of within-subjects ANOVAs indicated a significant effect of [La-] inclusion in the regression slope and in the estimated energy cost of running at both level and grade running. However, the obtained effect sizes suggest that this effect is considerably higher at level compared with grade running. These findings indicate that the inclusion of [La-] measurements in VO2-intensity regression estimates at sub maximal running should be considered when testing highly trained runners on the treadmill.(AU)

Portuguese version of the Physical Education State Anxiety Scale: Psychometric properties and its association with gender, age and extracurricular physical activity / Versión portuguesa de la Escala de Estado de Ansiedad en Educación Física: Propiedades psicométricas y su asociación con el sexo, edad y actividad física extracurricular / Versão portuguesa da Escala de Estado de Ansiedade em Educação Física: Propriedades psicométricas e sua associação com o sexo, idade e atividade física extracurricular

This study aims to provide the translation and the cultural adaptation of the Physical Education State Anxiety Scale (PESAS) in Portuguese, assess its psychometric properties, and investigate the effects of gender, age and extracurricular physical activity, on the different dimensions of PESAS (somatic anxiety, cognitive processes and worry). The sample comprised 496 students (221 male, 275 female) aged between 13 and 21 years (M =15.71, SD = 1.34). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the original factor structure of the scale. There was appropriate factorial validity of the 3-factor structure (somatic anxiety, cognitive processes and worry). Female students reported higher levels in the dimensions of anxiety, in comparison to boys. Students who practiced extracurricular physical activity revealed lower levels of cognitive processes and worries/fears. Age negatively correlated with cognitive processes and somatic anxiety. These findings support the use of the Portuguese version of PESAS and provide additional information about state anxiety in school physical education (AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue la traducción y adaptación cultural de la escala PESAS en portugués, evaluar sus propiedades psicométricas, e investigar los efectos del género, la edad y la actividad física extracurricular, en las diferentes dimensiones de PESAS (ansiedad somática, procesos cognitivos y preocupación). La muestra fue de 496 estudiantes (221 varones, 275 mujeres) con edades comprendidas entre 13 y 21 años (M = 15,71, SD = 1,34). El análisis factorial confirmatorio confirmó una adecuada validez factorial de la estructura multidimensional original de tres factores (procesos cognitivos, ansiedad somática y preocupaciones/miedos). Las estudiantes reportaron niveles más altos en las dimensiones de la ansiedad, en comparación con los varones. Los practicantes de actividad física extracurricular revelaron niveles más bajos de los procesos cognitivos y preocupaciones/ miedos. La edad correlacionó negativamente con los procesos cognitivos y la ansiedad somática. Estos resultados apoyan el uso de la versión portuguesa de la escala PESAS y proporcionan información adicional sobre el estado de ansiedad en la educación física escolar (AU)

O presente estudo tem como objetivos a tradução e adaptação transcultural do PESAS para Português, assim como, verificar as suas propriedades psicométricas e investigar o efeito do sexo, idade e atividade física extraescolar nas dimensões do PESAS (ansiedade somática, processos cognitivos e preocupações/receios). A amostra foi constituída por 496 alunos (221 rapazes e 275 raparigas) com idades compreendidas entre os 13 e os 21 anos (M =15,71, DP = 1,34). A análise fatorial confirmatória confirmou uma apropriada validade fatorial para a estrutura multidimensional original de 3 fatores (processos cognitivos, ansiedade somática e preocupações/ receios). As alunas reportaram níveis significativamente superiores nas dimensões de ansiedade em comparação aos rapazes. Os alunos praticantes de atividade física extraescolar revelaram menores níveis de processos cognitivos e preocupações/receios. A idade associou-se negativamente com os processos cognitivos e a ansiedade somática. Estes resultados suportam a utilização da versão portuguesa do PESAS e revelam novas evidências sobre a ansiedade-estado no contexto da educação física escolar (AU)

Tradução, adaptação transcultural e propriedades psicométricas da versão brasileira do Test of Performance Strategies / Translation, cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Brazilian Version of the Test of Performance Strategies

Este estudo tem como objetivos proceder à tradução e adaptação transcultural (equivalência semântica/conceitual e validade de conteúdo) do Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS), assim como, verificar as suas propriedades psicométricas (confiabilidade e validade fatorial) em atletas brasileiros. A amostra foi constituída por 413 atletas (295 homens e 118 mulheres) com idades compreendidas entre os 16 e 69 anos (M = 25,87, DP = 7,82). As propriedades psicométricas foram avaliadas através do alpha de Cronbach e da análise factorial confirmatória (AFC). Na análise da confiabilidade dos fatores, foram obtidos valores entre 0,41 e 0,82. Os resultados das AFC dos modelos multidimensionais revelaram índices de adequação insatisfatórios tanto para a situação de treino (GFI = 0,832; CFI = 0,761 e RMSEA = 0,058), como de competição (GFI = 0,855; CFI = 0,843 e RMSEA = 0,054). Quando analisadas as dimensões individualmente, verificaram-se problemas de validade fatorial (GFI e CFI < 0,90; RMSEA > 0,06) em quatro dos dezesseis fatores (ativação em situação de treino e ativação, controle emocional e pensamentos negativos em situação de competição). Em conclusão, os resultados providenciam evidências relativamente às propriedades psicométricas do TOPS em atletas brasileiros, sugerindo-se, contudo, precaução na interpretação dos escores de certas dimensões.(AU)

This study aimed to provide the translation and cultural adaptation (semantic/conceptual equivalence and content validity) of the Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS) as well as to investigate its psychometric properties (reliability and factorial validity) in Brazilian athletes. The sample consisted of 413 athletes (295 men and 118 women) aged between 16 and 69 years (M = 25.87, SD = 7.82). The psychometric properties were assessed by means of reliability (Cronbach's alpha) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The internal consistency of the factors ranged between .41 and .82. The results of the CFA of the multidimensional models showed unsatisfactory levels of adequacy for both training (GFI = .832, CFI = .761 and RMSEA = .058) and competition situations (GFI = .855, CFI = .843 and RMSEA = .054). At the individual level subscale, four of the sixteen subscales showed unacceptable fit (GFI and CFI < .90; RMSEA > .06) (training activation and activation, emotional control and negative thinking in competition situations). In conclusion, the results provide evidence of support for the psychometric properties of the TOPS in Brazilian athletes, although some caution is warranted particularly regarding the interpretation of some scales' scores.(AU)

Tradução, adaptação transcultural e propriedades psicométricas da versão brasileira do Test of Performance Strategies / Translation, cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Brazilian Version of the Test of Performance Strategies

Este estudo tem como objetivos proceder à tradução e adaptação transcultural (equivalência semântica/conceitual e validade de conteúdo) do Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS), assim como, verificar as suas propriedades psicométricas (confiabilidade e validade fatorial) em atletas brasileiros. A amostra foi constituída por 413 atletas (295 homens e 118 mulheres) com idades compreendidas entre os 16 e 69 anos (M = 25,87, DP = 7,82). As propriedades psicométricas foram avaliadas através do alpha de Cronbach e da análise factorial confirmatória (AFC). Na análise da confiabilidade dos fatores, foram obtidos valores entre 0,41 e 0,82. Os resultados das AFC dos modelos multidimensionais revelaram índices de adequação insatisfatórios tanto para a situação de treino (GFI = 0,832; CFI = 0,761 e RMSEA = 0,058), como de competição (GFI = 0,855; CFI = 0,843 e RMSEA = 0,054). Quando analisadas as dimensões individualmente, verificaram-se problemas de validade fatorial (GFI e CFI < 0,90; RMSEA > 0,06) em quatro dos dezesseis fatores (ativação em situação de treino e ativação, controle emocional e pensamentos negativos em situação de competição). Em conclusão, os resultados providenciam evidências relativamente às propriedades psicométricas do TOPS em atletas brasileiros, sugerindo-se, contudo, precaução na interpretação dos escores de certas dimensões.

This study aimed to provide the translation and cultural adaptation (semantic/conceptual equivalence and content validity) of the Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS) as well as to investigate its psychometric properties (reliability and factorial validity) in Brazilian athletes. The sample consisted of 413 athletes (295 men and 118 women) aged between 16 and 69 years (M = 25.87, SD = 7.82). The psychometric properties were assessed by means of reliability (Cronbach's alpha) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The internal consistency of the factors ranged between .41 and .82. The results of the CFA of the multidimensional models showed unsatisfactory levels of adequacy for both training (GFI = .832, CFI = .761 and RMSEA = .058) and competition situations (GFI = .855, CFI = .843 and RMSEA = .054). At the individual level subscale, four of the sixteen subscales showed unacceptable fit (GFI and CFI < .90; RMSEA > .06) (training activation and activation, emotional control and negative thinking in competition situations). In conclusion, the results provide evidence of support for the psychometric properties of the TOPS in Brazilian athletes, although some caution is warranted particularly regarding the interpretation of some scales' scores.

Achievement goals and sportsmanlike attitudes in young soccer players and its association with perceived pressure from significant social agents / Orientações motivacionais e atitudes desportivas em jovens futebolistas e suas associações com as pressões percebidas de agentes sociais significativos

The purposes of this study were to characterize the achievement goals and sportsmanlike attitudes in young soccer players and their association with perceived pressure from different significant social agents (parents/family, coaches, teammates and friends). The sample of the study was comprised of 118 young soccer players, aged between 11 and 19 years (M= 14.68, SD= 2.16). Athletes had 5.40 ± 2.39 years of sport experience and 71 (60.2%) of the athletes had competed at a regional level, while 47 (39.8%) had participated in national competitions. Participants completed a socio-demographic survey, the Task and Ego Orientation in Sports Questionnaire and the Sports Values Questionnaire. The statistical analyses involved univariate normality and descriptive, comparative and correlational analyses. Results revealed that task orientation was positively correlated with sportsmanlike attitudes (r= 0.47, p<0.01) and negatively associated with unsportsmanlike attitudes (r= −0.46, p<0.01), whereas ego orientation effects were contrary (sportsmanlike attitudes: r= −0.33, p<0.01 and unsportsmanlike attitudes: r= 0.42, p<0.01). Perceived pressures from all significant social agents were positively and significantly associated with unsportsmanlike attitudes (p<0.05), with perceived pressure from coaches also being associated with higher ego orientation scores and with lower task orientation and sportsmanlike attitudes in young soccer players. In summary, these results indicate the need for coaches and other social agents to promote a competition climate that reinforces self-referenced improvements and the expression of positive social attitudes in sports contexts. .

- Os objetivos do estudo foram caracterizar as orientações motivacionais e as atitudes (anti)desportivas de jovens futebolistas e suas associações com as pressões percebidas de distintos agentes sociais (pais/família, treinadores, colegas de equipa e amigos). A amostra foi constituída por um total de 118 futebolistas masculinos, com idades entre os 11 e os 19 anos (M= 14.68, DP= 2.16). Os atletas tinham 5.40 ± 2.39 anos de experiência federada, sendo que 71 (60.2%) atletas competiam em nível regional e 47 (39.8%) em competições nacionais. Os participantes responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico, ao Questionário de Orientação Motivacional no Desporto e ao Questionário de Valores no Desporto. A análise estatística envolveu procedimentos de normalidade univariada e análise descritiva, comparativa e correlacional. Os resultados indicaram que a orientação para a tarefa correlacionou-se positivamente com as atitudes desportivas (r= 0.47, p<0.01) e negativamente com as atitudes antidesportivas (r= −0.46, p<0.01), enquanto a orientação para o ego exerceu um efeito contrário (atitudes desportivas: r= −0.33, p<0.01 e atitudes antidesportivas: r= 0.42, p<0.01). As pressões percebidas por parte de todos os agentes de socialização associaram-se positiva e significativamente com as atitudes antidesportivas (p<0.05), sendo os treinadores as principais fontes de pressão promotoras de níveis superiores de orientação para o ego e menores níveis de orientação para a tarefa e atitudes desportivas nos atletas. Em suma, estes resultados indicam a necessidade dos treinadores e outros agentes sociais promoverem um clima de competição orientado para o autoaperfeiçoamento e para a expressão de atitudes socialmente positivas ...

The effects of different exercise programmes on female body composition.

The purpose of this study was to verify the effects of 16 weeks of practicing different exercise programmes on body composition. This is an exploratory and descriptive study of 89 women aged 25 to 55 years (41.42 ± 9.23 years). The subjects were randomly divided into three experimental groups (EG): practitioners of strength training (SG), dance (DG), hydrogymnastics (HG), and a control group (CG) with sedentary women. Measurements of body mass and height, circumferences of the chest, waist, abdomen, hips, thighs, calves, and skinfolds of the triceps, suprailiac and thigh were registered in three different moments: prior to the commencement of the training program, again after 8 weeks of training, and finally after 16 weeks of training. Body density was estimated by using the trifold protocol by Jackson, Pollock and Ward. The ANOVA and deltas of change (Δ%) were used for data analysis. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. The effects of greater statistical significance on body composition related the variables "time", "group" and the interaction between the two (time × group) were observed for the percentage of fat - F% (F (1.79, 152.52) = 24.59, p <0.001, η (2) = 0.22), fat mass - FM (F (1.75, 149.01) = 12.65, p <0.001, η (2) = 0.13) and lean mass - LM (F (1.77, 150.66) = 47.38, p <0.001, η (2) = 0.36). The HG and SG were more beneficial in reducing F%. It was observed that the EG indicated healthier anthropometric aspects compared to the CG, regardless of the type of exercise programmes practiced. The time factor was more representative over the effects of exercise on anthropometric dimensions.

Relationship of different perceived exertion scales in walking or running with self-selected and imposed intensity.

The aims of this study were to: (1) compare the Heart Rate (HR) and Rating Perceived Exertion (RPE) in training with self-selected and imposed loads, and (2) associate the OMNI-Walk/Run and Borg scales with self-selected and imposed loads, both on a treadmill. Ten trained men (20.3 ± 2.0 years, 75.6 ± 9.8 kg, 175.1 ± 5.1 cm) participated in a training program with self-selected load (time and speed individually preferred) and another with imposed load (even self-selected time and speed 10% higher). The HR and RPE were measured, every minute of training, by the OMNI-Walk/Run and Borg scales. No significant differences were found in the HR and RPE between training sessions. The correlation between the OMNI-Walk/Run and Borg scales showed a moderate association (r = 0.55) in training with self-selected load and a strong association in imposed load (r = 0.79). In this study, self-selected load induced a suboptimal stimulus to elicit favorable organic adaptations. Moreover, high correlation of OMNI Walk/Run and Borg scales with the imposed load showed that the greater the load of training the best were answers of RPE.

Hematological and biochemical markers after a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in world-class athletes / Marcadores hematologicos e bioquimicos apos um torneio de Jiu-Jitsu Brasileiro em atletas de elite

The objectives of this study were to assess the effect of participation in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) competition on biochemical and hematological markers, and to determine whether the skill level of the athletes influenced these responses. Thirty BJJ fighters were divided into two groups: an elite group (EL) including 20 subjects classified as 1st to 3rd place in the previous World Championship, and a non-elite group (NEL) including 10 BJJ athletes not participating in competitions. A BJJ tournament was simulated using the same rules as those of the World Championship. Each athlete performed five fights of up to 10 minutes each, with 5-minute resting intervals between fights. The fighting order was random and fights confronted athletes of the same group. Pre- and post-competition blood samples were collected to assess biochemical and hematological markers. Participation in the competition induced significant increases in the following variables in athletes of the two groups: glucose, uric acid, urea, creatinine, total protein, albumin, creatine kinase, leukocytes, neutrophils, rods, and monocytes. There was a significant increase in platelet count only in the NEL group. Total protein and mean platelet volume were higher in athletes of the EL group, whereas eosinophil and monocyte numbers were higher in the NEL group. A significant time x group interaction was only observed for serum creatinine, with higher mean values in the EL group pre- and post-competition.

Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar o efeito de um esforço de competição de Jiu-Jitsu Brasileiro (JJB) sobre marcadores bioquímicos e hematológicos, e investigar se esse efeito diferia em função do nível de prestação. Foram estudados 30 lutadores, divididos em: grupo de Elite ou EL (n= 20), composto por atletas com colocações entre 1º e 3º lugar no Campeonato Mundial de JJB Brasileiro; e grupo Não Elite ou NEL (n= 10), composto por praticantes não competidores. Simulou-se um campeonato de JJB com as mesmas regras do Campeonato do Mundo. Cada atleta realizou cinco lutas de até 10 minutos cada e com um intervalo de cinco minutos entre as mesmas. A ordem e a composição das lutas foram realizadas através de sorteio e entre atletas do mesmo grupo. Antes e após a competição, foram feitas recolhas de sangue para obtenção dos marcadores bioquímicos e hematológicos. A competição de JJB induziu aumentos significativos nos atletas de ambos os grupos nas seguintes variáveis: glicose, ácido úrico, ureia, creatinina, proteínas totais, albumina, creatinaquinase, leucócitos, neutrófilos, bastões e monócitos. No plaquetócrito, houve aumento significativo apenas no grupo NEL. As proteínas totais e o volume plaquetário médio apresentaram valores mais elevados nos atletas EL; enquanto os eosinófilos e monócitos foram mais elevados nos atletas NEL. Apenas na creatinina sérica se verificou um efeito significativo na interação momento x grupo, verificando-se valores mais elevados no grupo EL, tanto no pré como no pós-competição.

The influence of positional release therapy on the myofascial tension of the upper trapezius muscle / A influencia da terapia de libertacao posicional sobre a tensao miofascial do musculo trapezio

The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of positional release therapy (PRT) on the myofascial tension of the upper trapezius muscle with an active myofascial trigger point (TrP). We studied 30 subjects (18 men and 12 women), mean age 34.5 ± 9.4 years, with an active TrP in the upper trapezius muscle on one side. A search for TrPs was performed bilaterally and the points were considered to be active when both local and referred pain evoked by manual palpation reproduced a deep aching and burning pain. The patients were evaluated under three conditions: (a) resting baseline, (b) concentric contraction and (c) isometric contraction, before and after treatment with PRT, regarding the following parameters: (i) pain intensity during manual palpation (visual analogue pain scale) and (ii) upper trapezius muscle electromyographic (EMG) signals. A significant decrease in painful symptoms from 5.3 ± 1.9 to 2.8 ± 1.8 (p < 0.001) was observed after treatment. There were no significant differences in EMG signals during resting baseline and in the presence of concentric contraction after the PRT session. It was concluded that PRT may be an effective treatment for pain relief and to reduce resting baseline EMG signals in the upper trapezius muscle with a TrP, suggesting that its use as an alternative or an adjunct to other therapies. The effectiveness of this type of treatment should be confirmed by further clinical studies.

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a influência da Terapia de Libertação Posicional (TLP) sobre a tensão miofascial do músculo trapézio superior, com presença de ponto gatilho (PG) miofascial ativo. Foram estudados 30 indivíduos (18 homens e 12 mulheres), idade média 34,5 + 9,4 anos, com presença de PG ativo, no músculo trapézio superior, de um dos lados. Os PG foram avaliados em ambos os lados e foram considerados ativos quando era evocada uma dor local, disseminada e persistente, por palpação manual. Os indivíduos foram avaliados em três condições: (a) repouso basal, (b) contração concêntrica e (c) contração isométrica, antes e após da aplicação da TLP, nos seguintes parâmetros: (i) intensidade da dor durante a palpação (escala visual analógica de dor) e (ii) sinais eletromiográficos (EMG) do músculo trapézio superior. Houve uma redução significativa do sintoma doloroso 5,3 ± 1,9 para 2,8 ± 1,8 (p < 0,001). Quanto à atividade electromiográfica, em repouso basal e na contração concêntrica, não se observaram diferenças significativas nos sinais EMGs, após a utilização da TLP. Os resultados sugerem que a TLP diminui o sintoma doloroso e reduz os sinais da electromiografia, em repouso basal, do músculo trapézio superior com PG. Isto sugere que a técnica de TLP pode ser utilizada como uma alternativa ou em concomitância com outras terapias. A eficácia desta forma de tratamento deve ser confirmada por outros estudos clínicos.

Factors influencing competitive anxiety in Brazilian athletes / Fatores influenciadores da ansiedade competitiva em atletas Brasileiros

The study of factors influencing competitive anxiety, according to a multidimensional perspective and supported by valid instruments, is scarce among Brazilian athletes of different sports. The present study aims to: i) investigate the theoretical relationship between the different dimensions of the multidimensional theory of anxiety (i.e., cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self-confidence); and ii) investigate the effects of gender, type of sport (individual or collective) and competitive experience levels on cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self-confidence. A total of 303 athletes (233 males and 70 females), from different sports, aged between 18 and 40 years (M =24.22, SD = 5.07) completed a shortened version of CSAI-2 (i.e., CSAI-2R), about one hour before the start of competitions. Results revealed significant correlations between cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self-confidence dimensions, in accordance with the assumptions of the multidimensional theory. Additionally, comparative analyses indicated that female athletes and athletes from collective sports showed higher levels of cognitive anxiety, while male athletes and athletes with high competitive experience reported higher levels of self-confidence. These results were discussed taking into account the theoretical and practical implications of these findings for planning interventions of sport psychology in Brazil with athletes of different contexts.

O estudo dos fatores influenciadores da ansiedade competitiva, de acordo com uma perspectiva multidimensional suportada em instrumentos devidamente validados, é algo pouco existente em atletas brasileiros de diferentes modalidades. Dessa forma, o presente estudo tem como objetivos: i) confirmar a proposta teórica de que há uma relação entre as dimensões constituintes da teoria multidimensional (i.e., ansiedade cognitiva, ansiedade somática e autoconfiança) e ii) verificar os efeitos do sexo, tipo de esporte (individual ou coletivo) e experiência competitiva nos níveis de ansiedade cognitiva, ansiedade somática e autoconfiança.Trezentos e três atletas (233 do sexo masculino e 70 do sexo feminino), de diferentes modalidades desportivas, com idades compreendidas entre os 18 e 40 anos (M = 24,22; DP = 5,07) preencheram uma versão reduzida do CSAI-2 (i.e., CSAI-2R), aproximadamente, uma hora antes do início das competições.Os resultados revelaram correlações significativas entre as dimensões de ansiedade cognitiva, ansiedade somática e autoconfiança de acordo com os pressupostos teóricos da teoria multidimensional. Adicionalmente, as análises comparativas indicaram que os atletas do sexo feminino e de esportes coletivos evidenciaram níveis superiores de ansiedade cognitiva, enquanto os atletas masculinos e com alta experiência competitiva reportaram maiores níveis de autoconfiança. Estes resultados foram discutidos, tendo em conta as implicações teóricas e práticas destas evidências para o planejamento de intervenções da psicologia do esporte no Brasil, em atletas de diferentes contextos.

Vigorexia e níveis de dependência de exercício em frequentadores de academias e fisiculturistas / Vigorexy and levels of exercise dependence in gym goers and bodybuilders

INTRODUÇÃO: Atualmente, a aparência é sinônimo de sucesso, saúde e determinação. De modo que a sociedade moderna oprima os indivíduos a seguir padrões estereotipados de beleza. E como herança dessa sociedade capitalista e egoísta surgem os transtornos psíquicos da aparência e as dependências psíquicas a eles associadas. OBJETIVOS: i) comparar os níveis de vigorexia e de dependência ao exercício entre frequentadores de academias e fisiculturistas; ii) relacionar as variáveis de prática de exercício físico (tempo de prática, frequência semanal e duração por sessão) com as dimensões de frequência de vigorexia e de dependência ao exercício; e, iii) comparar os níveis de vigorexia segundo grupos de dependência ao exercício (dependentes ou em risco, não dependente sintomático e não dependente assintomático). MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída por 151 frequentadores de academia (27,66 ± 6,54 anos e 27,56 ± 5,03 de IMC) e 25 fisiculturistas (30,80 ± 5,54 anos e 26,72 ± 4,24 de IMC), todos do sexo masculino. Os participantes responderam à Escala de Dependência ao Exercício e ao Inventário de Dismorfia Muscular. A análise estatística envolveu procedimentos de análise descritiva, normalidade univariada, comparativa e correlacional. RESULTADOS: Os principais resultados evidenciaram: i) não existir diferenças entre frequentadores de academias e fisiculturistas quanto aos níveis de vigorexia e de dependência ao exercício; ii) que a duração da sessão de treino se correlaciona positivamente com a maioria das dimensões da dependência ao exercício; e, iii) que o grupo classificado como dependente ou em risco revela níveis médios superiores de vigorexia. CONCLUSÃO: Por fim, constatou-se que tanto nos fisiculturistas como nos frequentadores de academias, quanto maior o nível de vigorexia, maior o nível de dependência ao exercício, sendo essa correlação maior em fisiculturistas.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, good appearance is a synonym to success, health and determination. So as to, the modern society overwhelms the individuals to follow beauty stereotypes. The heritage of this capitalist and selfish society is the psychological appearance disorders and the psychological dependence associated with them. Among these, we can mention vigorexy and exercise dependence. OBJECTIVES: I) to compare vigorexy levels and exercise dependence among gym goers and bodybuilders, II) to corelate the variables on physical practice (time of practice, weekly frequency and sessions time) to the frequency dimensions of vigorexy and exercise dependence; and, III) to compare vigorexy levels according to the exercise dependence groups (dependent or in risk, not symptomatic dependent and not asymptomatic dependent). METHODS: The sample was composed of 151 male gym goers (27.66 ± 6.54- year-old and 27.56 ± 5.03 BMI) and 25 bodybuilders (30.80 ± 5.54-year-old and 26.72 ± 4.24 BMI). The participants answered the Exercise Dependence Scale and the Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory. The statistical analysis involved descriptive, univariated normality, comparative and correlational analyses. RESULTS: The main results were: I) absence of differences between gym goers and bodybuilders concerning vigorexy levels and exercise dependence, II) training session time is positively correlated with most of the dimensions of the exercise dependence, and, III) the group classified as dependent or in risk reveals medium superior levels of vigorexy. CONCLUSION: Lastly, it was found that both in bodybuilders and gym goers, the higher the vigorexy level, the higher the exercise dependence wit this correlation is higher in bodybuilders.

Factor structure and reliability of the depression, anxiety and stress scales in a large Portuguese community sample.

The purpose of the present study was to assess the factor structure and reliability of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21) in a large Portuguese community sample. Participants were 1020 adults (585 women and 435 men), with a mean age of 36.74 (SD = 11.90) years. All scales revealed good reliability, with Cronbach's alpha values between .80 (anxiety) and .84 (depression). The internal consistency of the total score was .92. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the best-fitting model (*CFI = .940, *RMSEA = .038) consisted of a latent component of general psychological distress (or negative affectivity) plus orthogonal depression, anxiety and stress factors. The Portuguese version of the DASS-21 showed good psychometric properties (factorial validity and reliability) and thus can be used as a reliable and valid instrument for measuring depression, anxiety and stress symptoms.