Influence of physical fitness and weight status on autonomic cardiac modulation in children.

BACKGROUND: This study provides reference values for cardiovascular modulation at rest, during maximal exercise test and recovery after exercise in Caucasian children according to weight status and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) level. Additionally, the current study analyzed several correlations between autonomic cardiovascular modulation, cardiorespiratory performance and cardiometabolic risk. The principal goal of this study was to analyze cardiac function at rest, during maximum exercise, and during the recovery phase in children grouped according to weight status and CRF level. METHODS: One hundred and fifty-two healthy children (78 girls) 10-16 years of age were divided into three groups: soccer and basketball players (SBG), endurance group (EG), and sedentary people with overweight and obesity (OOG). A cardiac RR interval monitor recorded the cardiac data and specific software analyzed the cardiac autonomic response through heart rate (HR) and HR variability. The study analyzed resting HR (RHR), HRpeak, and HR recovery (HRR). RESULTS: OOG showed significant poorer performance in the Léger test lower V̇O2 max and higher values of blood pressure at rest and post-exercise than sport groups. The EG presented the best results in CRF and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) in relation to SBG and OOG. The OOG showed higher percentage of HR values, compatible with an unhealthy cardiovascular autonomic modulation than the sport groups, with significant differences in bradycardia, HR reserve, and HRR 5 min. CONCLUSIONS: Aerobic performance, vagal activity, blood pressure, chronotropic competence, and HRR have significant associations with CMR parameters. IMPACT: The current study presents reference values of autonomic cardiac function in Caucasian children according to weight status and cardiorespiratory fitness level. Aerobic performance, vagal activity, blood pressure, chronotropic competence, and heart rate during the recovery period after exercise have significant associations with cardiometabolic risk parameters. Children with overweight and obesity show signs of autonomic dysfunction reflected as low cardiac vagal activity and poor chronotropic competence.

Social anxiety and academic performance during COVID-19 in schoolchildren.

The purpose of the present study was to determine the perception of schoolchildren whether their academic performance improved or worsened during the pandemic, analyzing their social anxiety, gender, use of masks in the classroom, and school year. The total sample was 107 primary school students (25 in the fourth, 40 in the fifth and 42 in the sixth grade), with a mean age of 10.51 years old (SD = 1). The gender were 58 girls and 49 boys, from a school in the province of La Coruña (Spain). The study was based on a quantitative methodology, and the design was cross-sectional, descriptive, observational and correlational. The social anxiety questionnaire (CASO-N24) was used to assess social anxiety, and an ad hoc self-report register was elaborated to evaluate sociodemographic variables. The results indicated that 44.8% of the schoolchildren considered that the pandemic had neither improved nor worsened their academic performance. Although 38.3% considered that high and very high social anxiety increased progressively as the school year progressed, both in boys and girls. Besides, the schoolchildren who presented very low and low social anxiety improved their grades in Physical Education, while those who presented high social anxiety worsened them. In conclusion, having a low social anxiety, lower grades before the pandemic and higher grades after, makes children perceive an improvement in their academic performance during the pandemic.

Influencia de las necesidades psicológicas básicas y estados de ánimo en jugadores de tenis de mesa / Influence of basic psychological needs and mood states in table tennis players

Este estudio pretende conocer la relación entre los estados de ánimo en una prueba con y sin mascarilla; y, por otro lado, comprobar si existe relación entre la frustración de necesidades psicológicas básicas y la realización de un test con y sin mascarilla en jugadores de tenis de mesa. Han participado 5 jugadores veteranos, de entre 12 y 16 años. Se emplearon la Course Navette en dos momentos espaciados en 3 semanas, y los cuestionarios Profile of Mood Status (POMS) y Psychological Need Thwarting Scale (PNTS) justo al terminar la prueba. Al realizar la prueba sin mascarilla, se obtienen mayores puntuaciones del cuestionario POMS en la escala de vigor, obteniendo un mayor estado de ánimo, perfil característico del deportista psicológicamente sano. En cuanto a la frustración de necesidades psicológicas básicas, se observó una media ligeramente elevada, siendo éstas predictoras de la variable confusión del estado de ánimo. (AU)

This study aims, on the one hand, to find out the relationship between moods in a test with and without a mask; and on the other, to check if there is a relationship between the frustration of basic psychological needs and the performance of a test with and without a mask in table tennis players. 5 veteran players have participated, between 12 and 16 years old. The Course Navette was used in two moments, spaced 3 weeks apart, and the Profile of Mood Status (POMS) and Psychological Need Thinking Scale (PNTS) questionnaires just at the end of the test. When performing the test without a mask, higher scores are obtained from the POMS questionnaire on the vigor scale, obtaining a higher state of mind, a characteristic profile of a psychologically healthy athlete. Regarding the basic psychological needs. Regarding the frustration of basic psychological needs, a slightly high mean was observed, these being predictors of the variable mood confusion. KeyWords Mood; frustration; athletes; table tennis; basic psychological needs. (AU)

Reference Values of Spatial and Temporal Gait Parameters in a Contemporary Sample of Spanish Preschool Children: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of age and sex on kinematic gait parameters in preschool children, and derive reference values for this population. A total of 383 preschool children (age 3-5 years; 207 girls, 176 boys) participated in this study. We used the OptoGait system to assess the kinematics of gait at a comfortable and self-determined speed. No significant differences between the sexes were found for the main gait parameters. Among the participants, there was a significant increase in double support, reductions in absolute cadence and the coefficient of variation (CV) of cadence, an increase in absolute step length (SL), and an increase in the walk ratio (WR) from 3 to 5 years of age. However, the normalized SL and normalized WR displayed a significant reduction in both sexes. Partial correlation indicated a significant association of age with SL and normalized SL, and WR. Additionally, WR showed a significant correlation with the CV of cadence. To summarize, no relevant differences in gait performance were found according to sex; however, age was found to influence gait maturation. The normative values established for Spanish preschool children can be used to monitor healthy gait development.

Cardiac Evaluation of Exercise Testing in a Contemporary Population of Preschool Children: A New Approach Providing Reference Values.

The objective of this study was to evaluate cardiac autonomic function at rest, during maximal exercise, and in post-exercise recovery, to determine sex-specific and age-specific differences in resting heart rate (RHR), linear and spectral parameters of Heart Rate Variability (HRV), HRpeak, and heart rate recovery (HRR) after one and five minutes, in preschool children. This study involved a cohort of 167 healthy children (79 girls) aged 3 to 6 years that were selected from several schools in southern Spain. A 10 × 20 m test was conducted, and the cardiovascular response was recorded. No significant differences were found in all variables between the sexes. However, a significant reduction in RHR and an increase in HRR were found from age 4 to age 6. HRV parameters at rest were higher in older children. No associations between 10 × 20 m performance, weight status, and cardiac parameters were found. Simple linear regression analysis revealed that heart rate reserve (HRr), HRR5min, RMSSD, and HF were the variables that showed association with all HR parameters. There was also a significant correlation between HRr and HRR5min. In conclusion, cardiovascular autonomic function during rest, exercise, and recovery in Spanish preschool children was not influenced by sex, although older children showed greater cardiovascular modulation. Cardiorespiratory fitness status was not associated with HR response.

A New Approach for Evaluation of Cardiovascular Fitness and Cardiac Responses to Maximal Exercise Test in Master Runners: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The aim of this study was to analyze the cardiac autonomic function at rest, at maximum exercise, and in recovery after exercise and to determine sex-specific and age-specific values for resting heart rate (RHR), hear rate (HR)-peak, HR recovery (HRR), and HR variability at rest in master runners. Fifty endurance runners (21 women) participated in this study (43.28 ± 5.25 years). The subjects came from different athletic clubs in Andalusia (Spain), and the testing protocol was performed in-season. A 3-km running test was performed and the cardiovascular response was monitored. Regarding sex, no significant differences were found regarding cardiovascular autonomic function at rest, during exercise, and following maximal exercise, only at rest, the standard deviation of all R-R intervals and low frequency values displayed significantly (p < 0.05) lower scores in women. 46% of athletes showed an RHR < 60 bpm. Additionally, HR-peak showed a significant correlation with age (r = −0.369; p = 0.009) and HRR5min (r = 0.476, p = 0.001). Also, endurance performance was inversely associated with obesity traits and cardiometabolic risk factors. In summary, age, sex, fitness, or anthropometrics characteristics did not show a relevant influence on cardiovascular autonomic modulation in master runners. However, the 3-km performance displayed a significant negative association with several factors of cardiometabolic risk.

Healthy lifestyles and physical fitness are associated with abdominal obesity among Latin-American and Spanish preschool children: A cross-cultural study.

BACKGROUND: Identifying environmental factors that influence health in children are necessary to develop preventive strategies. OBJECTIVE: To determine the association between the lifestyles of children (i.e., Mediterranean diet (MD), physical activity (PA), fitness and screen time (ST) with abdominal obesity (AO) of preschoolers from three Spanish-speaking countries (Chile, Colombia and Spain) with different socioeconomic levels and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 982 schoolchildren (aged 4-6 years; 56.8% girls) from Chile (n = 409), Colombia (n = 281), and Spain (n = 292). Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WtHR), adherence to the MD, PA, ST and physical fitness were evaluated. RESULTS: Spanish preschoolers reported a lower WtHR (p < 0.001), greater physical fitness (Z-score) (p < 0.001) and higher adherence to the MD (p < 0.001) than their Chilean and Colombian peers. In addition, Colombian preschoolers had a better lifestyle (PA + ST) than their Chilean and Spanish peers (p < 0.001). Chilean preschoolers reported a higher prevalence of AO than the Spanish preschoolers (65% vs. 51.9%; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Lifestyle had a significant association with AO among Spanish-speaking preschool children, with physical fitness especially being a relevant factor regardless of the country of origin. The findings of the current study may support the development of public guidelines focusing on healthy lifestyles in children to create effective plans that contribute to the early treatment of AO in preschool children.

Comprehensive cardiac evaluation to maximal exercise in a contemporary population of prepubertal children.

BACKGROUND: Heart rate (HR) is a biomarker used to measure physiological function, health status and cardiovascular autonomic function. The purpose of this study was to determine sex- and age-specific reference values for cardiac autonomic function at rest, during maximal exercise and the recovery phase in prepubertal children. METHODS: Five hundred and twelve healthy children 7-11 years of age performed a Léger test. A heart RR-interval monitor recorded the heart data and a specific software analysed the cardiac autonomic response through HR and HR variability (HRV). It analysed HR before the test (resting HR, RHR), during the test (HRpeak) and HR recovery (HRR) in the first minute (HRR1) and the fifth minute (HRR5). The values are mean ± SD. RESULTS: Collectively, 91.2% of girls and 92.3% of boys were within the recommended ranges regarding RHR. The average HRpeak was 199 ± 10.83 b.p.m. and 96.8% of girls and 95.3% of boys were within the minimum threshold value recommended (180 b.p.m.). Boys showed lower values of RHR than girls (p < 0.001) and larger values of HRR 1 and HRR5 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study comprehensively provides a reference set of data for the most important HR variables that can be obtained during exercise testing in prepubertal children regarding age and sex and in a field setting. IMPACT: This is the first study to provide reference values of autonomic cardiac function at rest, during maximal exercise and during the recovery period in prepubertal children aged 7-11 years. Despite the early age of participants, cardiorespiratory fitness, RHR and HRR are different according to sex. Aerobic performance and HRpeak have a negative correlation with body mass index and cardiometabolic risk.

Effect of COVID-19 confinement on physical activity patterns in relation to sociodemographic parameters in Spanish population.

BACKGROUND: The main purpose of the present study was to determine the sociodemographic parameters associated to physical activity (PA) patterns changes during the COVID-19 lockdown in the Spanish population. METHODS: Participants were recruited by sending a survey through various social network channels via the snowball method. A voluntary sample of 2430 individuals consisting of 1203 men and 1227 women (aged between 18 to 73 years old) from the Spanish national territory participated in this study. An online survey was performed to collect the information, which was tested through ad hoc analysis with different sociodemographic variables. Participants were a median of 34 years old (18-73 years old) with a mean BMI of 23.6 kg/m2. RESULTS: The risk factors associated with the change in PA hours during confinement showed that to do sports (ß=-56.88, 95% CI: -79.35 to -34.40, P<0.001), male sex (ß -34.78, 95%CI;-54.02 to -15.52, P<0.001) and the educational level (i.e., elementary school category) (ß=-54.21, 95%CI;-89.10 to -19.32, P=0.002) reported negative changes with hours of PA during confinement. By the contrary, the employment status (passive work) and to be student reported positive association (i.e., increase PA hours per week). CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 lockdown led to a reduction PA patterns in Spanish population. Mostly men showed a drastic decrease in hours of PA compared to the women's group. Likewise, the groups of people with elementary and high education showed a decrease in hours of weekly PA, as well as unemployed people.

Analysis of dynamic balance in preschool children through the balance beam test: A cross-sectional study providing reference values.

BACKGROUND: dynamic balance (DB) is a complex ability at an early age and balance deficits are related to numerous disorders. There are several balance measures but wide variation in their use has restricted the capacity to synthesise references values. The main purpose of this study was to analyse the performance of the Balance beam test (BBT) in preschool children, according to age and sex providing BBT reference values, and also to analyse its reliability and validity. RESEARCH QUESTION: could the BBT be a reliable test for measuring dynamic balance in preschool children? METHODS: 593 preschool children (3-6 years) participated in this study. The BBT was used to evaluate DB by measuring distance reached, time spent, and number of steps. Differences between sex and age groups were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Test-retest reliability analysis was performed using intraclass correlation coefficients and the Bland-Altman graphic. Convergent validity was investigated with the Stork Balance stand test (SBST). RESULTS: no significant differences were found for sex in any components of the BBT. Age had positive effects on BBT performance in distance (χ2 = 63.474, p < 0.001), time (χ2 = 46.441, p < 0.001), and step numbers (χ2 = 40.967, p < 0.001). Younger children performed more poorly than older children. No significant interactions between age groups and sex were found. The BBT showed adequate validity and reliability. SIGNIFICANCE: the reference values established for Spanish preschool children in the current study could be used to monitor DB development. It is necessary to take into account distance reached, time spent, and the steps taken to obtain a more precise measure of DB in this population.

The Ability of Runners to Identify Spatial and Temporal Variables of Speed During Endurance Running.

This study aimed to evaluate spatial and temporal perception in endurance runners as a mechanism of pacing control in comparison with other athletes (soccer players). A group of 38 endurance runners and 32 soccer players participated in this study. Runners displayed lower time differences and lower error than soccer players. Taking the athletic levels of endurance runners into consideration, significant differences (p = .011, Cohen's d = 1.042) were found in the time differences (higher level group = 33.43 ± 29.43 vs. lower level group = 123.53 ±102.61). Significant correlations were found between time differences and performance in a Cooper test (r = -.546) and with the best time in a half marathon (r = .597). Temporal and spatial perception can be considered as a cognitive skill of endurance runners.

Complex Gait Is Related to Cognitive Functioning in Older People: A Cross-Sectional Study Providing an Innovative Test.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have demonstrated an inverse relationship between gait performance and cognitive impairment. The main purposes of this study were: (1) to design and validate a complex gait test (CGT) in older people, (2) to analyze the effects of age and sex on CGT, and (3) to analyze the association between CGT performance and physical functioning and cognitive measures. METHODS: A total of 279 older people (60-97 years) were analyzed in 2019. Fitness tests, gait performance, and several cognitive measures such asthe Trail-Walking Test and Montreal Cognitive Assessment were used. RESULTS: The CGT reported adequate reliability and validity parameters. In the test-retest analysis, the intra-class correlation coefficient was 0.868 (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between the CGT and Trail-Walking Test (r = 0.592; p < 0.001). The linear regression analysis showed that the CGT was associated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (R2 = 0.357; p =0.001). The binary logistic regression analysis revealed that a high CGT score was a risk factor for mild cognitive impairment (odds ratio 1.201, 95% CI 1.081-1.334; p = 0.001). The ROC curve of the mild cognitive impairment was predicted by the CGT performance (area under the curve = 0.768, 95% CI 0.647-0.889; p < 0.001), reaching the cut-off point at 20.25 s. CONCLUSIONS: The CGT showed good reliability and validity and may serve as a potential biomarker in mild cognitive impairment prediction in older adults aged 60-97 years.

Reaction Times of Preschool Children on the Ruler Drop Test: A Cross-Sectional Study With Reference Values.

Reaction time (RT) tasks assess several brain functions, and a slow RT can be due to various brain diseases, disorders, and acquired conditions. This study examined age and gender differences in RTs of Spanish preschool children on the ruler drop test (RDT) and presents norm-referenced results. Participants were 3,741 children (1,845 girls and 1,896 boys; mean [M] age = 55.93, standard deviation [ SD] = 11.14 months; M body mass index = 15.94, SD = 1.91 kg/m2), selected from 51 schools in southern Spain. We measured RT with the RDT, and we collected both right- and left-hand data. We expressed normative mean RDT values of both hands according to gender and age in percentiles. Based on mean RDT scores, girls exhibited a poorer performance than boys aged 4 years ( p = .032, Cohen's d = - 0.122) and 5 years ( p = .001, Cohen's d = -0.194). For the whole group, RDT performance was faster with increased age, from the age of five years.

[Not Available]. / Validez y fiabilidad del cuestionario de disfrute por el ejercicio físico (PACES) en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad.

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio es evaluar las propiedades psicométricas del cuestionario de disfrute por el ejercicio físico (PACES) en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad.Métodos: participaron 139 adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad: 91 niñas (edad = 13,85 ± 1,92 años; índice de masa corporal [IMC] = 26,83 ± 3,16 kg/m2) y 48 niños (edad = 14,29 ± 1,62 años; IMC = 28,31 ± 3,74 kg/m2). Para analizar el disfrute por la actividad física se empleó el cuestionario Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES).Resultados: los resultados del análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio han mostrado una estructura de dos factores; a su vez el PACES presenta una consistencia interna muy alta (alfa de Cronbach = 0,908). La fiabilidad test-retest indica una buena concordancia temporal (Spearman rho = 0,815, p < 0,001). Por último, el PACES en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad manifiesta una validez convergente adecuada con la intencionalidad de ser activo (MIFA), la atracción por la actividad física (CAPA), la resistencia cardiorrespiratoria y los pliegues suprailiacoy subescapular.Conclusión: los resultados confirman que el PACES es una medida válida y fiable del disfrute por la actividad física en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad. El disfrute por la actividad física puede ser relevante en la participación de los adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad en estas actividades.

Validez y fiabilidad del cuestionario de disfrute por el ejercicio físico (PACES) en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad / Validity and reliability of physical activity enjoyment scale questionnaire (PACES) in adolescents with overweight and obesity

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio es evaluar las propiedades psicométricas del cuestionario de disfrute por el ejercicio físico (PACES) en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad. Métodos: participaron 139 adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad: 91 niñas (edad = 13,85 ± 1,92 años; índice de masa corporal [IMC] = 26,83 ± 3,16 kg/m2) y 48 niños (edad = 14,29 ± 1,62 años; IMC = 28,31 ± 3,74 kg/m2 ). Para analizar el disfrute por la actividad física se empleó el cuestionario Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). Resultados: los resultados del análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio han mostrado una estructura de dos factores; a su vez el PACES presenta una consistencia interna muy alta (alfa de Cronbach = 0,908). La fiabilidad test-retest indica una buena concordancia temporal (Spearman rho = 0,815, p < 0,001). Por último, el PACES en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad manifiesta una validez convergente adecuada con la intencionalidad de ser activo (MIFA), la atracción por la actividad física (CAPA), la resistencia cardiorrespiratoria y los pliegues suprailiaco y subescapular. Conclusión: los resultados confirman que el PACES es una medida válida y fiable del disfrute por la actividad física en adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad. El disfrute por la actividad física puede ser relevante en la participación de los adolescentes con sobrepeso y obesidad en estas actividades (AU)

Objective: The aim of this study is to test the psychometric properties of the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) in adolescents with overweight and obese. Methods: Participants included 139 overweight and obese adolescents, 91 girls (age = 13.85 ± 1.92 years; body mass index [BMI] = 26.83 ± 3.16 kg/m2 ) and 48 children (age = 14.29 ± 1.62 years; BMI = 28.31 ± 3.74 kg/m2 ). To test the enjoyment of physical activity, Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) was used. Results: The results of the exploratory and confi rmatory factor analysis showed a two-factor structure, also, the PACES showed a very high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.908). The test-retest reliability indicates a good temporary agreement (Spearman rho = 0.815, p (AU)

TEST-RETEST RELIABILITY OF A FIELD-BASED PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT FOR CHILDREN AGED 3-6 YEARS.

OBJECTIVE: the present study aims to determine the test-retest reliability of the Fitness Test Battery in children aged 3-6 years. METHODS: a total of 553 children voluntarily participated in the current study; all children were aged 3 to 6 years. Demographic characteristics reveal that 274 children were male (age: 4.63 ± 0.94 years old, Body max index [BMI] = 16.30 ± 2.07 kg/m2), and 279 were female (age 4.70 ± 0.97 years old, BMI = 16.28 ± 2.09 kg/m2), and they were selected from 8 schools in southern Spain. All selected tests for the Fitness Test Battery, except the 10 x 20 metres (m) test that was designed ad hoc for this study, have been used in previous studies and are focused on testing basic components of physical condition and motor development such as endurance, strength, speed, reaction time and balance (10 x 20 m, Standing Broad Jump, 20 m running speed, Ruler drop test and Balance). RESULTS: the results obtained in this study indicate that the Fitness Test Battery has obtained adequate reliability parameters, and is able to discriminate with age among the different tests in healthy children between 3 and 6 years old. The tests used were safe, easy to perform, very acceptable and understandable by children. CONCLUSION: the Fitness Test Battery is a valid, reliable and easy to assess the physical fitness of pre-schoolers children.

Objetivo: el presente estudio tiene como objetivo determinar la fiabilidad test-retest de una batería de evaluación de la condición física en niños de 3-6 años. Método: un total de 553 niños participaron voluntariamente en el estudio; todos los niños tenían entre 3 a 6 años. Las características demográficas revelan que 274 eran niños (edad: 4.63 ± 0.94 años, índice de masa corporal [IMC]= 16.30 ± 2.07 kg/m2), y 279 eran niñas (edad 4.70 ± 0.97 años, IMC = 16.28 ± 2.09 kg/m2), que fueron seleccionados de entre 8 escuelas en el sur de España. Todas las pruebas incluidas en la batería, con excepción de la prueba de 10 x 20 metros (m), que fue diseñada ad hoc para este estudio, se han utilizado en estudios anteriores y se centraron en los componentes básicos de la condición físico-motora, como la resistencia, la fuerza, la velocidad, el tiempo de reacción y el equilibrio. Resultados: los resultados obtenidos en este estudio indican que la batería de condición física para preescolares ha obtenido parámetros de fiabilidad test-retest adecuados y es capaz de discriminar según la edad entre las diferentes pruebas en niños sanos de 3 a 6 años. Conclusión: la batería de condición física para preescolares diseñada en este estudio es un instrumento válido, fiable y fácil de emplear para evaluar la condición física de los niños en edad preescolar. Las pruebas utilizadas eran seguras, fáciles de realizar, muy aceptables y comprensibles para los niños.

Test-retest reliability of a field-based physical fitness assessment for children aged 3-6 years / Fiabilidad test-retest de una batería de evaluación de la condición físicomotora en niños de 3 a 6 años

Objective: the present study aims to determine the test-retest reliability of the Fitness Test Battery in children aged 3-6 years. Methods: a total of 553 children voluntarily participated in the current study; all children were aged 3 to 6 years. Demographic characteristics reveal that 274 children were male (age: 4.63 ± 0.94 years old, Body max index [BMI] = 16.30 ± 2.07 kg/m2 ), and 279 were female (age 4.70 ± 0.97 years old, BMI = 16.28 ± 2.09 kg/m2 ), and they were selected from 8 schools in southern Spain. All selected tests for the Fitness Test Battery, except the 10 x 20 metres (m) test that was designed ad hoc for this study, have been used in previous studies and are focused on testing basic components of physical condition and motor development such as endurance, strength, speed, reaction time and balance (10 x 20 m, Standing Broad Jump, 20 m running speed, Ruler drop test and Balance). Results: the results obtained in this study indicate that the Fitness Test Battery has obtained adequate reliability parameters, and is able to discriminate with age among the different tests in healthy children between 3 and 6 years old. The tests used were safe, easy to perform, very acceptable and understandable by children. Conclusion: the Fitness Test Battery is a valid, reliable and easy to assess the physical fitness of pre-schoolers children (AU)

Objetivo: el presente estudio tiene como objetivo determinar la fiabilidad test-retest de una batería de evaluación de la condición física en niños de 3-6 años. Método: un total de 553 niños participaron voluntariamente en el estudio; todos los niños tenían entre 3 a 6 años. Las características demográficas revelan que 274 eran niños (edad: 4.63 ± 0.94 años, índice de masa corporal [IMC]= 16.30 ± 2.07 kg/m2), y 279 eran niñas (edad 4.70 ± 0.97 años, IMC = 16.28 ± 2.09 kg/m2), que fueron seleccionados de entre 8 escuelas en el sur de España. Todas las pruebas incluidas en la batería, con excepción de la prueba de 10 x 20 metros (m), que fue diseñada ad hoc para este estudio, se han utilizado en estudios anteriores y se centraron en los componentes básicos de la condición físico-motora, como la resistencia, la fuerza, la velocidad, el tiempo de reacción y el equilibrio. Resultados: los resultados obtenidos en este estudio indican que la batería de condición física para preescolares ha obtenido parámetros de fiabilidad test-retest adecuados y es capaz de discriminar según la edad entre las diferentes pruebas en niños sanos de 3 a 6 años. Conclusión: la batería de condición física para preescolares diseñada en este estudio es un instrumento válido, fiable y fácil de emplear para evaluar la condición física de los niños en edad preescolar. Las pruebas utilizadas eran seguras, fáciles de realizar, muy aceptables y comprensibles para los niños (AU)

Comparative analysis between two models of active aging and its influence on body composition, strength levels and quality of life: long-distance runners versus bodybuilders practitioners / Análisis comparativo entre dos modelos de envejecimiento activo, y su influencia en la composición corporal, niveles de fuerza y calidad de vida: atletas de resistencia y usuarios de musculación

Aim: To analyze the body composition, strength level, and the quality of life related to the health (QoL) in veteran sportsmen (>35 years old) in relation to sedentary ones (S), and to compare the result in the mentioned variables between two models of sports practice, long-distance runners (LDR) and bodybuilding practitioners (BBP). Methods: One hundred forty-eight male participants took part and were distributed into three groups: 47 LDR (age=42.01±6.96 years), 49 BBP (age=45.14±7.04 years), and 47 S (age=43.71±8.75 years). Body composition, upper- and lower-limb strength level, and QoL were assessed. Results: The LDR and BBP obtained better performance in countermovement jump (CMJ) than the S ones (+0.06 m, p< 0.05). The CMJ performance is significantly reduced only in S group (-0.07 m, p p<0.001). Conclusions: The results suggested that the LDR as a model of active aging showed healthier values in BMI and %fat mass as well as greater results in QoL than BBP and S groups. Nevertheless, the LDR group showed similar values to S ones in muscle mass. The regression analysis performed showed that the sedentary habit predicts the %fat mass and CMJ performance (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar la composición corporal, nivel de fuerza y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CdV) en deportistas veteranos (mayores de 35 años) en relación a sedentarios (S), y comparar los resultados obtenidos en las mencionadas variables entre dos modelos de práctica deportiva, corredores de fondo (CF) y usuarios de musculación (UM). Método: Participaron ciento cuarenta y ocho hombres y fueron distribuidos en 3 grupos: 47 CF (edad=42.01±6.96 años), 49 UM (edad=45.14±7.04 años), and 47 S (edad=43.71±8.75 años). Composición corporal, fuerza de extremidades superiores e inferiores y CdV fueron evaluados. Resultados: Diferencias significativas fueron encontradas en IMC y %grasa entre UM y S en relación a CF (p<0.001) En cuanto al efecto del envejecimiento en la composición corporal, todos los grupos controlados (CF, UM y S) reducen la masa muscular con el paso de los años, mientras que el %grasa incrementó únicamente en S (p<0.05). En cuanto al nivel de fuerza, el envejecimiento deterioró el rendimiento en salto vertical (CMJ) sólo en S (p<0.001). Conclusiones: Los resultados señalaron al grupo de CF como modelo de envejecimiento activo que mostró valores más saludables en IMC y %grasa además de mejores resultados en CdV. No obstante, en relación a la masa muscular, CF mostraron valores similares a S. El análisis de regresión ejecutado mostró que el hábito de ser sedentario predice el %grasa y el rendimiento en CMJ (AU)

Comparative analysis between two models of active aging and its influence on body composition, strength levels and quality of life: long-distance runners versus bodybuilders practitioners.

AIM: To analyze the body composition, strength level, and the quality of life related to the health (QoL) in veteran sportsmen (>35 years old) in relation to sedentary ones (S), and to compare the result in the mentioned variables between two models of sports practice, long-distance runners (LDR) and bodybuilding practitioners (BBP). METHODS: One hundred forty-eight male participants took part and were distributed into three groups: 47 LDR (age=42.01±6.96 years), 49 BBP (age=45.14±7.04 years), and 47 S (age=43.71±8.75 years). Body composition, upper- and lower-limb strength level, and QoL were assessed. RESULTS: The LDR and BBP obtained better performance in countermovement jump (CMJ) than the S ones (+0.06 m, p<0.001). Significant differences were found in BMI and %fat mass, between BBP and S with relation to LDR (p<0.001). In relation to the effect of aging on body composition, the muscle mass is reduced in all groups controlled (LDR, BBP, and S). Additionally, the %fat mass is increased only in S group (p< 0.05). The CMJ performance is significantly reduced only in S group (-0.07 m, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggested that the LDR as a model of active aging showed healthier values in BMI and %fat mass as well as greater results in QoL than BBP and S groups. Nevertheless, the LDR group showed similar values to S ones in muscle mass. The regression analysis performed showed that the sedentary habit predicts the %fat mass and CMJ performance.

Objetivo: Analizar la composición corporal, nivel de fuerza y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CdV) en deportistas veteranos (mayores de 35 años) en relación a sedentarios (S), y comparar los resultados obtenidos en las mencionadas variables entre dos modelos de práctica deportiva, corredores de fondo (CF) y usuarios de musculación (UM). METHODS: One hundred forty-eight male participants took part and were distributed into three groups: 47 LDR (age=42.01±6.96 years), 49 BBP (age=45.14±7.04 years), and 47 S (age=43.71±8.75 years). Body composition, upper- and lower-limb strength level, and QoL were assessed. Método: Ciento cuarenta y ocho varones participaron en este estudio, divididos en tres grupos: 47 CF (42.01±6.96 años), 49 UM (45.14±7.04 años), and 47 S (43.71±8.75 años). Resultados: Diferencias significativas fueron encontradas en IMC y %grasa entre UM y S en relación a CF (p.

Composición corporal y fuerza del atleta veterano: efecto del envejecimiento / Body composition and strength of the veteran athlete: Effect of aging

Introducción: El atleta máster ha sido propuesto como modelo ideal de envejecimiento debido a su participación en el ejercicio de alta intensidad. El propósito de este estudio es analizar la fuerza y composición corporal de atletas veteranos de fondo en relación con la edad. Material y método: Los participantes son 43 atletas, 40 hombres (edad: 41,2±1,1 años) y3 mujeres (edad: 44,3±3,1 años) que entrenaban actualmente. Se analizó la fuerza de piernas mediante CMJ y saltos en 30 s, dinamometría manual y diferentes parámetros de composición corporal. Como parámetros explicativos se establecieron 2 grupos de edad (35-44 años y 45-54 años). Resultados: No se han encontrado diferencias significativas (p≥0,05) en composición corporal por el efecto de la edad, pero sí en relación con la fuerza que experimenta reducciones significativas(p < 0,05) en altura de salto, velocidad máxima, potencia máxima y trabajo concéntrico en el CMJ y en la altura media de salto y potencia media en los saltos en 30 s del grupo de mayor edad. Conclusiones: El atleta veterano, a pesar de la edad, mantiene parámetros saludables de composición corporal, sin embargo, este tipo de entrenamiento no permite mantener los valores de fuerza de piernas a lo largo del envejecimiento (AU)

Introduction: The master athlete has been proposed as the ideal model of aging due to their participation in high intensity exercise. The intention of this study was to analyse the strength hand body composition of veteran long-distance athletes in relation to age. Material and method: The participants were 43 athletes, 40 men (age: 41.2±1.1 years) and 3women (age: 44.3±3.1 years), that were training at the time. Leg strength was analysed by means of countermovement jumps (CMJ), jumps in 30 s, manual dynamometry and different body composition parameters. We established two age groups (35-44 years and 45-54 years) as selective parameters. Results: There were no significant differences (P≥0.05) found in body composition based on age. In contrast, there were significant differences in relation with strength, which showed significant reductions (P <0.05) in jump height, maximum speed, maximum power and concentric work in CMJ and reductions in average jump height and power in the jumps in 30 seconds in the older group. Conclusions: The veteran athlete, in spite of age, evidences healthy parameters of body composition; nevertheless, high intensity training does not make it possible to maintain leg strength values throughout the aging process (AU)