Analysis of Player Performance and Financial Costs Associated With Implementation of an Updated National Hockey League Concussion Protocol: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

Background: An updated National Hockey League (NHL) concussion protocol (NHLCP) was established in the 2016-2017 season to mitigate the negative outcomes of sport-related concussions. However, few studies on the effects of implementing the NHLCP have been performed. Purpose: To define concussion incidence and investigate differences in NHL player performance after a concussion during periods before and after NHLCP implementation and assess the financial impact on NHL teams associated with NHLCP implementation. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This was a retrospective review of NHL players who sustained a concussion before (2000-2001 to 2015-2016 seasons) and after (2016-2017 to 2020-2021 seasons) implementing the NHLCP (pre-NHLCP and post-NHLCP groups). For each group, multiple performance metrics-including 30 days, 1 season, and 3 seasons before and after concussion-were compared for both groups. Return to play, total concussion cost, and association of return to play with cost were investigated using regression analysis. Results: A total of 452 players (423 skaters, 29 goalies) sustained concussions during the study period, including 331 players (315 skaters, 16 goalies) in the pre-NHLCP group and 121 players (108 skaters, 13 goalies) in the post-NHLCP group. For both groups, no significant differences in standard performance were observed during the 30-day and 1-season periods before and after concussion. The mean return to play was significantly higher in the pre-NHLCP group than in the post-NHLCP group (20.1 vs 15.7 days; P = .022). The mean adjusted player salary was not different between groups; nonetheless, the mean adjusted replacement player salary was significantly higher in the post-NHLCP group ($744,505 vs $896,942; P = .032). The mean cost of time missed did not differ between groups. The mean return to play time significantly decreased over the entire study period (R2 = 0.33; P = .005), and the mean return to play time was positively associated with cost R2 = 0.215; P = .030). Conclusion: Concussion incidence did not change after implementation of the updated NHLCP; nonetheless, players had significantly less missed time from injury after protocol implementation. Changes in player performance 30 days and 1 year before and after concussion injury were not different before and after NHLCP implementation. No differences were found in the financial cost of concussions between the pre- and post-NHLCP groups, and missed time was significantly correlated with mean cost from missed time.

Integrated use of biofeedback and neurofeedback techniques in treating pathological conditions and improving performance: a narrative review.

In recent years, the scientific community has begun tо explore the efficacy оf an integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach іn various conditions, both pathological and non-pathological. Although several studies have contributed valuable insights into its potential benefits, this review aims tо further investigate its effectiveness by synthesizing current findings and identifying areas for future research. Our goal іs tо provide a comprehensive overview that may highlight gaps іn the existing literature and propose directions for subsequent studies. The search for articles was conducted on the digital databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies to have used the integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach published between 2014 and 2023 and reviews to have analyzed the efficacy of neurofeedback and biofeedback, separately, related to the same time interval and topics were selected. The search identified five studies compatible with the objectives of the review, related to several conditions: nicotine addiction, sports performance, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach has been shown to be effective in improving several aspects of these conditions, such as a reduction in the presence of psychiatric symptoms, anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms and an increase in self-esteem in smokers; improvements in communication, imitation, social/cognitive awareness, and social behavior in ASD subjects; improvements in attention, alertness, and reaction time in sports champions; and improvements in attention and inhibitory control in ADHD subjects. Further research, characterized by greater methodological rigor, is therefore needed to determine the effectiveness of this method and the superiority, if any, of this type of training over the single administration of either. This review іs intended tо serve as a catalyst for future research, signaling promising directions for the advancement оf biofeedback and neurofeedback methodologies.

Advancing athlete development: How Percentile Comparison Methods (PCMs) can identify youth developmental profiles.

OBJECTIVES: Inter-individual developmental differences confound the capability to accurately evaluate youth athletic performance, highlighting the need for considerate methodology and analytical approaches. The present study demonstrated how Percentile Comparison Methods (PCMs) were developed, tested, and applied to identify athlete developmental profiles in Australian youth swimming. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. METHODS: Participants were N = 866 female 100-metre (m) Front-Crawl swimmers, aged 9-15 years, competing at 36 Australian regional-national level long course events. At respective events, swim performance time was collated alongside, age, date of birth, and anthropometric measures to identify age group, relative age, and maturity status. Quadratic relative age and maturity status with 100-m performance regression trendlines were generated. Then, individual swim performances at a given relative age or maturity status were converted into percentile rank distributions and compared with raw (unadjusted) annual age-group performance percentile ranks. RESULTS: At a cohort level, initial testing confirmed relative age and maturity-adjusted percentile rankings were associated with general rank improvements for relatively younger and later maturing swimmers compared to raw ranks (and vice versa). When assessing individual swimmer plots, where three percentile rank scores were compared and rank change threshold criteria applied, five Percentile Comparison Method profile types were identified, namely: 'Early Developing' (19 %); 'Later Developing' (18 %); 'Consistent' (15 %); 'Mixed' (38 %) and 'Counteracting' (10 %). Percentile Comparison Method plots helped identify developmentally (dis-)advantaged swimmers; specific factors leading to (dis-)advantage, and likely onward development trajectories. CONCLUSIONS: Overall and with practical considerations, Percentile Comparison Methods can improve the validity of youth athletic performance evaluation as well as inform athlete development programming.

Unilateral dynamic balance assessment: The test-retest reliability of the OptoJump next drift protocol.

BACKGROUND: The OptoJump Next Drift Protocol is a test designed to assess unilateral dynamic balance. Participants are required to perform a series of unilateral jumps from which left/right and forward/back displacement (Drift) is calculated. OBJECTIVES: This investigation set out to establish the test-retest reliability of the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol. METHOD: Twenty-six participants performed the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol on two separate occasions. Drift Area and Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area were calculated for each leg. RESULTS: Interclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) indicated poor reliability for Drift Area and Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area (right leg r = .44; left leg r = -0.20). However, 95% Limits of Agreement (LoA) suggested a stronger relationship. For Drift Area, between trial Mean Difference for the right leg was 50.87 cm2 (95% LoA = -227.57 - 328.87) and for the left leg it was 54.08 cm2 (95% LoA = -333.62 - 441.79). For Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area, Mean Difference for the right leg was 0.56% (95% LoA = -2.44 - 3.65) and for left 0.60% (95% LoA = - 3.76-4.89). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the 95% LoA data, the authors suggest that the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol does offer an acceptable level of reliability.

Effect of the pre-taper level of fatigue on the taper-induced changes in performance in elite swimmers.

Introduction: In swimming, performance gains after tapering could be influenced by the pre-taper level of fatigue. Moreover, this level of fatigue could be associated with sleep. This study aimed to assess (1) the effect of tapering on performance according to the pre-taper level of fatigue in swimmers and (2) the association between sleep and pre-taper level of fatigue. Methods: Physiological, psychological and biomechanical profiles were evaluated in 26 elite swimmers on 2 occasions to estimate the pre-taper level of fatigue: at T0 and T1, scheduled respectively 10 and 3 weeks before the main competition. Sleep quantity and quality were also evaluated at T0 and T1. Race time was officially assessed at T0, T1 and during the main competition. The level of significance was set at p ≤ .05. Results: Fourteen swimmers (17 ± 2 years) were allocated to acute fatigue group (AF) and 12 swimmers (18 ± 2 years) to functional overreaching group (F-OR). From T1 to the main competition, performance was improved in AF (+1.80 ± 1.36%), while it was impaired in F-OR (-0.49 ± 1.58%, p < 0.05 vs. AF). Before taper period, total sleep time was lower in F-OR, as compared to AF. Conversely, the fragmentation index was higher in F-OR (p = .06). From wakefulness to sleep, body core temperature decreased in AF but not in F-OR. Discussion: Performance gain after tapering was higher in AF swimmers than in overreached. Moreover, pre-taper sleep was poorer in overreached swimmers, which could contribute to their different response to the same training load. This poorer sleep could be linked to a lower regulation of internal temperature.

Applicability of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool in Elite Volleyball Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: The ease of administration of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) could represent a methodology for periodically evaluating athletes, preventing ankle instability injuries. This study aimed to achieve three objectives: (a) to evaluate the applicability of the CAIT scale in volleyball; (b) to explore whether ankle instability presents a greater risk in lower-level volleyball categories and whether elite athletes demonstrate an ability to mitigate this risk; and (c) to identify potential predictors of ankle instability. METHODS: Eighty female volleyball players participated in this cross-sectional observational study. The CAIT was administered to evaluate the athletes belonging to some teams in Series A, B, and C. RESULTS: The Spearman's ranks correlation coefficient showed significant correlations between CAIT items. Additionally, the Cronbach's α showed a high internal consistency. Our results showed a significant difference between athletes who reported pain and those who did not (p < 0.001). The multiple linear regression model analysis showed that pain was a predictor of ankle instability (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the CAIT can be used to evaluate ankle stability in volleyball players. This scale could represent a valuable tool for implementing specific intervention programs to prevent ankle injuries in athletes.

Four-compartment muscle fatigue model to predict metabolic inhibition and long-lasting nonmetabolic components.

Introduction: Computational muscle force models aim to mathematically represent the mechanics of movement and the factors influencing force generation. These tools allow the prediction of the nonlinear and task-related muscle behavior, aiding biomechanics, sports science, and rehabilitation. Despite often overlooking muscle fatigue in low-force scenarios, these simulations are crucial for high-intensity activities where fatigue and force loss play a significant role. Applications include functional electrical stimulation, motor control, and ergonomic considerations in diverse contexts, encompassing rehabilitation and the prevention of injuries in sports and workplaces. Methods: In this work, the authors enhance the pre-existing 3CCr muscle fatigue model by introducing an additional component of force decay associated with central fatigue and a long-term fatigue state. The innovative four-compartment model distinguishes between the short-term fatigued state (related to metabolic inhibition) and the long-term fatigued state (emulating central fatigue and potential microtraumas). Results: Its validation process involved experimental measurements during both short- and long-duration exercises, shedding light on the limitations of the traditional 3CCr in addressing dynamic force profiles.

Stress and sport performance: a PNEI multidisciplinary approach.

Stress control is essential for avoiding a state of anxiety in sport competitions, as this state may have negative effects on other psychological variables of athletes, decreasing their self-confidence and harming their attentional control. In the present contribution a distress intervention model developed from a PNEI perspective will be sketched out. Our theoretical-methodological proposal consists of the definition of an integrated protocol of psycho-biological assessment and intervention on the allostatic load and on the levels of distress/eustress detectable in the sport environment, in relation to the person's health/well-being condition and the impact of this condition on the quality of sport performance. This paradigm has the potential to explore both the psychological dimension of stress management and the psycho-educational and psycho-physical dimension, according to a truly integrated approach to the athlete's health and psychophysical well-being. Its multidisciplinary nature requires close cooperation between different professional figures, such as the mental coach, psychologist, nutritionist, osteopath, and physiotherapist, as well as biologists, physicians and kinesiologists, both in planning and in implementation and monitoring at all stages. The potential impact of the model on sport performance will be deeply discussed.

The impact of religious-psychological factors on self-perceived sport performance among religious athletes in Malaysia.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which religious-psychological factors contribute to self-perceived sport performance among religious athletes. METHODS: The participants consisted of 612 athletes (310 males, 302 females) aged 12-70 years (mean age = 25.33; SD = 8.99) who were competing in sport competitions at the time, either individually or in a team, or both, and who had formally registered in local, regional, or national sport federations in Malaysia. They completed the Athletic Religious Faith Scale (ARFS) and a self-perceived sport performance questionnaire. RESULTS: The results showed that religious-psychological factors explain around 21% of the variance in self-perceived sport performance among religious athletes. Only three religious-psychological factors (i.e., religious coping, athletic identity, and religious dietary practices) contributed to the stimulation of self-perceived sport performance; in particular, religious coping was the most predictable factor, whereas the other factors (i.e., dependence on faith, flow, religious mental healing, and religious psychological effects) had no meaningful relationship with self-perceived sport performance. CONCLUSIONS: This finding suggests that sport psychologists, coaches, and other professionals should consider the importance of religious faith and help religious athletes practice positive religious coping (e.g., religious social support or religious meditation) to enhance athletes' well-being and athletic performance.

Pattern of Consumption of Sports Supplements of Spanish Handball Players: Differences According to Gender and Competitive Level.

(1) Background: Given the physiological characteristics of handball, players may require the use of certain sports supplements (SS). However, very few studies have investigated the consumption of SS in handball. The aims were to determine the number of handball players who consume SS, to analyze their SS consumption pattern according to gender and competitive level, and to assess whether the SS they consume are supported by scientific evidence, and to which group they belong according to the classification of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). (2) Methods: A descriptive-correlational study was carried out on the habitual consumption of SS in 360 federated Spanish players by using a self-administered and validated questionnaire. (3) Results: These showed 65.8% of the sample consumed SS. According to the total number of participants, the most consumed supplements were from Group A: sports drinks (30.8%) and whey protein (30.4%). When analyzing the data by gender, the men's consumption was significantly higher for whey protein (p < 0.001), caffeine (p = 0.009), and creatine monohydrate (p < 0.001). When analyzed by competitive level, the provincial category players group showed a significantly lower consumption than the rest of the groups for protein bars (p = 0.038), whey protein (p = 0.005) and creatine monohydrate (p < 0.001), while the honor division group showed a significantly higher intake of creatine monohydrate than the remaining groups (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: The handball players showed a moderate consumption of SS, without using substances that were not supported by scientific evidence and opting in most cases for supplements belonging to group A from the AIS classification. Men tended to consume more SS, and SS consumption increased based on competitive level.

Evaluation of the 18-bp deletion/insertion variant of the VEGF gene in athletes.

The skeletal muscle capillary supply mainly determines the highest exercise capacity. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the major growth factor during the angiogenesis process. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether the VEGF insertion/deletion (I/D) variant differs between athletes and sedentary controls in the Turkish population. Three hundred sixteen subjects, including 146 athletes from different branches and 170 sedentary people, voluntarily participated in this study. Genomic DNA was isolated and genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for the VEGF I/D variant. The results were evaluated statistically. In this study, the athletes and the controls showed a statistically significant difference in the genotype and allele distribution of the VEGF I/D variant. The athletes had a more prevalent D allele and D/D genotype than the controls (p = 0.008 and p = 0.034, respectively). There was a statistically significant association between the patients and the controls in terms of D/D vs. I/I + I/D genotypes (p = 0.018). There was no significant difference in VEGF I/D genotype distribution according to sports branches. Athletic performance is a complex trait influenced by genetic and environmental factors. As far as we know, this is the first study to evaluate the VEGF I/D variant in athletes in Turkey. According to our results in this study, we concluded that the VEGF I/D variant, D/D genotype, and D allele are associated with sport performance in the Turkish population. However, there is a need for studies with large samples in which environmental and emotional factors will also be taken into account.

Effects of dominance and vision on unipedal balance tests in futsal players using a triaxial accelerometer.

Optimal postural control improves performance and reduces the risk of injury in futsal. In this context, wearable accelerometers may detect velocity changes of the centre of mass during a task, enabling the analysis of postural control in different environments. This work aimed to determine the influence of vision and dominance on unipodal static postural balance in non-professional athletes. Twenty-four university male futsal players performed a unipodal balance test to assess their body sway using a triaxial accelerometer. To assess dominance, the preferred limb for kicking the ball was considered, while vision was manipulated by asking participants to close their eyes during the test. Root mean square (RMS) and sample entropy (SaEn) of centre of mass variables were analysed. For statistical analysis, a multivariate analysis of variance model was used. Our results suggest an effect of vision, but not of dominance nor the interaction between vision and limb dominance. Specifically, a higher-acceleration RMS in the mediolateral axis was observed, as well as an increased SaEn in the three axes. To conclude, unipodal postural demand in futsal players under visual input suppression was not influenced by their limb dominancy.

Reliability and Validity of the Star Excursion Balance Test for Evaluating Dynamic Balance of Upper Extremities.

BACKGROUND: Upper extremity (UE) dynamic balance is a significant physical fitness ability, which includes high-level neuromuscular proprioception, joint mobility, force, and coordination. The evaluation methods of UE dynamic balance are insufficient and lack experimental support. The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) is a reliable assessment of dynamic balance and injury risk of the lower extremity. HYPOTHESIS: The UE-SEBT is a reliable and reproducible approach for evaluating dynamic balance of UEs. STUDY DESIGN: Observational study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4. METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited 65 healthy adults. All participants were required to complete UE-SEBT, UE Y-balance test (UE-YBT), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of UE, closed kinetic chain UE stability test (CKCUEST), trunk flexor endurance test (TFET), trunk extensor endurance test (TEET), and lateral trunk endurance test (LTET). Intra- and inter-rater reliability and the correlation of UE-SEBT with other outcomes were measured. RESULTS: Among the participants, the intra- and interoperator reliability of UE-SEBT in all directions and composite score achieved a moderate-to-excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients [ICC], 0.729-0.946) reliability. For validity, the UE-SEBT had a moderate to very strong correlation with UE-YBT (r = 0.315-0.755, P < 0.01) and a strong correlation with CKCUEST (r = 0.4-0.67, P < 0.01). Furthermore, the UE-SEBT performance showed weak-to-strong correlations with MVIC (r = 0.26-0.43, P < 0.05). UE-SEBT was also correlated with LTET, TEET, and TFET to varying degrees. CONCLUSION: UE-SEBT has good reliability and validity to assess UE dynamic balance compared with other tests. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: UE-SEBT can be used as a clinical assessment method to evaluate UE dynamic balance and injury prevention.

Analysis of the Performance and Sailing Variables of the Optimist Class in a Variety of Wind Conditions.

The aim of this study was to analyse the variables that determine the performance of the Optimist class during a regatta in different wind conditions. A total of 203 elite sailors of the Optimist class (121 boys and 82 girls) participated in the study. According to their ranking in the regatta, the sample was divided into four performance groups. In a regatta with 11 races, the velocity made good (VMG), the distance and the manoeuvres were evaluated by means of GNSS equipment in three different courses. The boys performed a greater number of upwind and running manoeuvres than the girls. The very-low-level sailors obtained a lower VMG in all the courses analysed compared with the rest of the groups of sailors of higher levels. Upwind manoeuvres, broad reach and running VMG were significant variables for establishing differences in performance level when the wind speed was in a range of 5 to ≤8 knots. When the wind speed was in the >8 to ≤12 knot range, upwind distance was the key variable in determining performance differences. VMG, upwind and broad reach distance and broad reach manoeuvres were the most important variables when the wind speed was in the >12 to 15 knots range. The boys performed more manoeuvres than the girls in the upwind and running courses.

Circadian Rhythms, Chrononutrition, Physical Training, and Redox Homeostasis-Molecular Mechanisms in Human Health.

A multitude of physiological processes, human behavioral patterns, and social interactions are intricately governed by the complex interplay between external circumstances and endogenous circadian rhythms. This multidimensional regulatory framework is susceptible to disruptions, and in contemporary society, there is a prevalent occurrence of misalignments between the circadian system and environmental cues, a phenomenon frequently associated with adverse health consequences. The onset of most prevalent current chronic diseases is intimately connected with alterations in human lifestyle practices under various facets, including the following: reduced physical activity, the exposure to artificial light, also acknowledged as light pollution, sedentary behavior coupled with consuming energy-dense nutriments, irregular eating frameworks, disruptions in sleep patterns (inadequate quality and duration), engagement in shift work, and the phenomenon known as social jetlag. The rapid evolution of contemporary life and domestic routines has significantly outpaced the rate of genetic adaptation. Consequently, the underlying circadian rhythms are exposed to multiple shifts, thereby elevating the susceptibility to disease predisposition. This comprehensive review endeavors to synthesize existing empirical evidence that substantiates the conceptual integration of the circadian clock, biochemical molecular homeostasis, oxidative stress, and the stimuli imparted by physical exercise, sleep, and nutrition.

Mental fatigue impairs repeated sprint and jump performance in team sport athletes.

OBJECTIVES: We tested whether mental fatigue (MF), induced by a cognitively-demanding task, would impair repeated sprint ability (RSA) and repeated jump ability (RJA) performance, and whether physical fatigue and MF would impair psychomotor vigilance. DESIGN: Randomized within-participant design. METHODS: After establishing baseline peak countermovement jump (CMJ), 18 male participants performed 12 maximal 20-m (10-m linear + 10-m directional) repeated sprints (RSA random test) followed by 12 maximal repeated CMJs (RJA test) subsequent to 30-min Stroop task (MF) or a documentary (Control). Peak and mean running time and height, percent decrement score (Sdec), blood lactate, heart rate and RPE were measured for CMJ, RSA, and RJA tests. MF (M-VAS) and psychomotor vigilance [psychomotor vigilance test (PVT)] were measured at baseline, after each condition, and after the RSA/RJA tests. RESULTS: Compared to Control, the Stroop task elevated MF (p = .001), RPE ratings (all p < .031), and mean and Sdec performance in directional (but not linear) RSA (all p < .032) and RJA tests (all p < .034). PVT score worsened after Stroop task (p = .011) but not Control, declined after RSA/RJA tests in both conditions (all p < .023) and was lower in the MF condition (p = .029). No condition differences were noted for peak (CMJ, RSA and RJA tests) performance, blood lactate, and heart rate. CONCLUSIONS: MF impairs directional RSA, and RJA performance. This impairment was linked with increased RPE and without physiological changes. The progressive impairment in PVT score suggests a cumulatively negative effect of mental and physical fatigue on psychomotor vigilance.

Cannabis Use in Adolescent and Young Adult Athletes: A Clinical Review.

CONTEXT: Cannabis use among the general population has increased over time, in part due to decriminalization of use and greater social acceptance of cannabis use. These changes have contributed to increased availability of cannabis products, thus raising the likelihood that a subset of adolescent and young adult athletes will use cannabis. Therefore, it is imperative that clinicians and other providers working with young athletes have a thorough understanding of the impact cannabis can have on the athletic performance and overall health of a young athlete. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: PubMed (Medline), CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SportDiscus databases were used to perform a literature search of articles published between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2022. Additional articles were reviewed based on references obtained from initial articles. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4. RESULTS: Survey studies suggest that up to 1 in 4 athletes have used cannabis at least once in the last year. Age, sex, race, sexual orientation, level of competition, and country of residence of an athlete all contribute to differing rates of cannabis use among athletes. The scientific literature does not support using cannabis for athletic performance, and multiple studies have demonstrated notable impairments in objective athletic performance measures. Cannabis use can also negatively impact an athlete's overall health via cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and mental health symptoms and disorders. CONCLUSION: Cannabis use among adolescent and young adult athletes is common, and rates of use are influenced by many different factors. Current evidence suggests that cannabis use can worsen sport performance, negatively impact an athlete's general health, and contribute to negative mental health outcomes.

Analysis of Sprint Ski Mountaineering Performance.

Ski mountaineering sprint competitions are short individual races involving 3 uphill sections (U), 3 transitions (T), and a final descent. To date, relatively little is known about this novel Olympic discipline, and here we examined (1) the contribution of the time spent on U, T, and final descent to overall finishing time and (2) the potential relationships with final ranking. During the different rounds of 2 International Ski Mountaineering Federation World Cup sprint competitions, male and female ski mountaineers were video recorded. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to investigate the impact of U, T, and final descent on the best overall finishing time. Linear-mixed model analysis was applied to explore potential interactions between section times, rounds, and final ranking. Overall, U (r = .90-.97) and T (r = .57-.89) were closely correlated with the best overall finishing time (all P < .05). U explained approximately 80% to 90% of the variation in the best finishing time for both sexes, with U + T explaining approximately 95% to 98% of this variation. In each successive round, the ski mountaineers eliminated were all slower on U than the Top 3 (all P < .05). The fastest skiers increased their performance on U in the later rounds of the competitions, while those eliminated showed a tendency toward a decrease. Our findings reveal that world-class sprint ski mountaineers conduct transitions optimally and perform effectively uphill. Training for such competitions should aim to improve short supramaximal uphill performance (∼1.5-2.5 min), ensuring that this does not decline with multiple efforts. These insights into ski mountaineering sprint performance are of considerable value in connection with training for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Prevalence of sports supplements consumption and its association with food choices among female elite football players.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to 1) investigate the consumption of Sports Supplements (SSs) among female elite football players, 2) evaluate the influence of age on SS consumption, and 3) determine the relationship between the consumption of SSs and dietary choices among elite football players. METHODS: A total of 126 female football players of Primera Iberdrola and Reto Iberdrola who participated in this descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study completed a self-administered questionnaire on SSs and the Athletes' Food Choices Questionnaire. RESULTS: Overall, 84.1% of participants consumed supplements, mainly for improved sports performance (68.3%) and health (34.1%). The main sources of purchase were the Internet (34.9%) and specialized shops (23.8%), and players were commonly advised by a dietitian-nutritionist to use SSs (56.3%). The SSs most often consumed included whey protein (30.2%), sports drinks (28.6%), creatine monohydrate (28.6%), sports bars (27.8%), and caffeine (27.8%). Older players consumed more supplements at the time of data compilation. Players predominantly acquired these supplements by using the Internet and reported benefits from their use (all P ≤ 0.036). Additionally, players who consumed SSs conveyed more concern about their food choices. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of female football players consumed SSs, particularly SSs supported by robust scientific evidence. Older players had higher supplement consumption rates. The use of SSs was related to food choices through nutritional characteristics of foods, knowledge about health and nutrition, weight control with the help of food, and the performance benefits players could acquire.

Accuracy and precision of multiple body composition methods and associations with muscle strength in athletes of varying hydration: The Da Kine Study.

BACKGROUND: Athletes vary in hydration status due to ongoing training regimes, diet demands, and extreme exertion. With water being one of the largest body composition compartments, its variation can cause misinterpretation of body composition assessments meant to monitor strength and training progress. In this study, we asked what accessible body composition approach could best quantify body composition in athletes with a variety of hydration levels. METHODS: The Da Kine Study recruited collegiate and intramural athletes to undergo a variety of body composition assessments including air-displacement plethysmography (ADP), deuterium-oxide dilution (D2O), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), underwater-weighing (UWW), 3D-optical (3DO) imaging, and bioelectrical impedance (BIA). Each of these methods generated 2- or 3-compartment body composition estimates of fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) and was compared to equivalent measures of the criterion 6-compartment model (6CM) that accounts for variance in hydration. Body composition by each method was used to predict abdominal and thigh strength, assessed by isokinetic/isometric dynamometry. RESULTS: In total, 70 (35 female) athletes with a mean age of 21.8 ± 4.2 years were recruited. Percent hydration (Body Water6CM/FFM6CM) had substantial variation in both males (63-73 %) and females (58-78 %). ADP and DXA FM and FF M had moderate to substantial agreement with the 6C model (Lin's Concordance Coefficient [CCC] = 0.90-0.95) whereas the other measures had lesser agreement (CCC <0.90) with one exception of 3DO FFM in females (CCC = 0.91). All measures of FFM produced excellent precision with %CV < 1.0 %. However, FM measures in general had worse precision (% CV < 2.0 %). Increasing quartiles (significant p < 0.001 trend) of 6CM FFM resulted in increasing strength measures in males and females. Moreover, the stronger the agreement between the alternative methods to the 6CM, the more robust their correlation with strength, irrespective of hydration status. CONCLUSION: The criterion 6CM showed the best association to strength regardless of the hydration status of the athletes for both males and females. Simpler methods showed high precision for both FM and FFM and those with the strongest agreement to the 6CM had the highest strength associations. SUMMARY BOX: This study compared various body composition analysis methods in 70 athletes with varying states of hydration to the criterion 6-compartment model and assessed their relationship to muscle strength. The results showed that accurate and precise estimates of body composition can be determined in athletes, and a more accurate body composition measurement produces better strength estimates. The best laboratory-based techniques were air displacement plethysmography and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, while the commercial methods had moderate-poor agreement. Prioritizing accurate body composition assessment ensures better strength estimates in athletes.