The effects of different small-sided games configurations on heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and running demands in professional soccer players.

We examined the effects of different small-sided games (SSG) configurations on heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and running demands in soccer players. Twelve male soccer players (U18) participated in this randomized cross-over study. Players performed three SSG in different "fixed" and "dynamic" pitch sizes (3v3 in large (SSGL) and small (SSGS) fixed area; or 3v3 in dynamic dimensions [SSGD]), with 4x4 minutes interspersed by 2 minutes of rest. HR measures (maximum [HRmax], average [HRavg], and percentage of maximum [%HRmax]), RPE, and running demands were collected across the SGG sessions. The following running activities were recorded: total distance covered (TD), distance covered (DC) at 6-12 km·h-1, ≥ 12-18 km·h-1, and >18 km·h-1, peak running speed, acceleration (ACC) and deceleration (DEC) at 1-2 m·s-2 and 2-3 m·s-2, player load, and high metabolic load distance (HMLD). SSGL displayed higher HRavg, %HRmax, and RPE values than SSGS (p < 0.05). SSGL resulted in higher TD, DC at 6-12 km·h-1, ≥ 12-18 km·h-1, > 18 km·h-1, and higher peak speed than SSGS and SSGD (p < 0.05). Moreover, SSGD presented higher TD and DC at 6-12 km·h-1 and ≥ 12-18 km·h-1 than SSGS (p < 0.05). In contrast, SSGD and SSGS showed higher number of ACC and DEC at 1-2 m·s-2 than SSGL (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the pitch size and playing area of the SSG can be manipulated to promote desired physiological and physical demands in young soccer players.HighlightsWe examined how fixed (small and large) or variable (dynamic) pitch sizes affected the psychophysiological and running demands of young soccer players during small-sided games.Small-sided games with larger pitch sizes and areas per player elicited greater psychophysiological and running demands than small areas.The pitch size designed in the current study does not appear to affect the number of acceleration and deceleration (> 2 m·s-2).Varying the pitch size during the small-sided games (i.e. dynamic condition) could be an interesting constraint to be considered by soccer coaches in order to enhance task variability.

Estratégias de coping e motivação de praticantes de corrida de rua / Estrategias de afrontamiento y motivación de los corredores callejeros / Coping strategies and motivation of street runners

O objetivo do estufo foi analisar as estratégias de coping e a motivação de prati-cantes de corrida de rua do município de Maringá ­ PR. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, cuja mostra foi composta por 55 praticantes de corrida de rua, de ambos os sexos, com idade mínima de 20 anos de idade. Como instrumentos foram utilizados uma ficha de identificação, o Exercise Motivation Inventory (EMI-2) e o Inventário de Estratégias de Coping (IEC). A análise dos dados foi feita através de estatística descritiva e inferencial (p<0,05). Os resultados evidenciaram que os homens apresentaram um perfil mais competidor em relação às mulheres (p=0,019), além de utilizarem as estratégias rendimento máximo sob pressão (p=0,017), concentração (p=0,030) e confiança e moti-vação (p=0,021). Os indivíduos com maior tempo de prática utilizam mais da estratégia concentração (p=0,020). Os que treinavam até três vezes na semana se motivavam mais pela reabilitação da saúde. A estratégia de formulação de objetivos foi o domínio que mais obteve correlações com a motivação (p<0,05). Conclui-se que existem inúmeros motivos para a prática dos corredores de rua, assim como as estratégias de enfrentamento utilizadas.

The purpose of the study was to analyze coping strategies and motivation of street runners in the city of Maringá ­ PR. This is a cross-sectional study, in which the sample consisted of 55 street runners, from both sexes, with a minimum age of 20 years old. As instruments, an identification form, the Exercise Motivation Inventory (EMI-2) and the Coping Strategies Inventory (CSI) were used. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics (p<0.05). The results have evinced that men had a more competitive profile than women (p=0.019), also using the following strategies: maximum performance under pressure (p=0.017), concentration (p=0.030) and confi-dence and motivation (p=0.021). Individuals with longer practice time use the concentration strategy more often (p=0.020). Individuals who used to train up to three times a week were more motivated by health rehabilitation. The strategy of formulating objectives was the domain that most correlated with motivation (p<0.05). It is concluded that there are numerous reasons for the practice of street runners, as well as the coping strategies they use.

El propósito del estudio fue analizar las estrategias de afrontamiento y la motivación de los corredores callejeros en la ciudad de Maringá - PR. Se trata de un estudio transversal, en el que la muestra estuvo compuesta por 55 corredores callejeros, de ambos los sexos, con una edad mínima de 20 años. Como instrumentos se utilizó un formulario de identificación, el Inventario de Motivación para el Ejercicio (EMI-2) y el Inventario de Estrategias de Afrontamiento (IEC). El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante estadística descriptiva e inferencial (p <0,05). Los resultados mostraron que los hombres tenían un perfil más competitivo que las mujeres (p = 0,019), además de utilizar las estrategias rendimiento máximo bajo presión (p = 0,017), concentración (p = 0,030) y confianza y motivación (p = 0,021). Las personas con mayor tiempo de práctica utilizan más la estrategia de concentración (p = 0.020). Los que entrenaron hasta tres veces por semana estaban más motivados por la rehabilitación de la salud. La estrategia de formulación de objetivos fue el dominio que más se correlacionó con la motivación (p <0,05). Se concluye que existen numerosas razones para la práctica de los corredores callejeros, así como las estrategias de afrontamiento empleadas.

Effects of running before pregnancy on long-term memory and hippocampal alterations induced by prenatal stress.

Studies have shown that an adverse environment in utero influences fetal growth and development, leading to several neuroendocrine and behavioral changes in adult life. Nevertheless, the mechanisms involved in the long-term benefits of pregestational exercise are still poorly understood. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of physical exercise before the gestational period on memory behavior and gene expression in the hippocampus of adult mice submitted to prenatal stress. Female Balb/c mice were divided into three groups: control (CON), prenatal restraint stress (PNS), and exercise before the gestational period plus PNS (EX + PNS). When adults, male and female offspring were submitted to the object recognition test followed by the hippocampal evaluation of BDNF exons I and IV mRNA expression, as well as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis related genes. Pregestational exercise did not prevent the decreased recognition index, as well as GR and CRHR1 gene expression observed in PNS males. Conversely, prenatal stress did not influence female memory behavior. Moreover, exercise attenuated the effects of prenatal stress on female BDNF IV gene expression. The results indicate that pregestational exercise was able to prevent the effects of maternal stress on hippocampal BDNF IV gene expression in females, although no effects were seen on the stress-induced memory impairment in males.

Motivaciones para correr y el compromiso con el running en adultos argentinos de CABA y GBA / Motivations to running and commitment to running in argentinian adults

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo describir el grado de motivación para correr y el compromiso con el running en adultos argentinos corredores de ambos sexos (53% masculino) de Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires y Gran Buenos Aires analizar las relaciones entre las variables mencionadas y determinar cuáles de las motivaciones constituían los mayores predictores del compromiso para correr. A tal efecto se aplicaron las versiones en castellano de la MotivationsofMarathonersScale (Masters, Ogles&Jolton, 1993) y Commitmentto Running Scale(Carmack & Martens, 1979). Todos los participantes dieron su autorización para participar en el estudio. Los resultados evidenciaron niveles de compromiso con el running similar a estudios anteriores, y arrojaron una correlación positiva entre el compromiso a correr y todas las dimensiones de las motivaciones para correr, siendo las mayores la significación con la vida ­ autoestima y las metas personales - competencia. Además, estas dimensiones resultaron ser los mayores predictores del compromiso. Los resultados del presente estudio brindan un nuevo aporte a la promoción de la salud de las personas y los beneficios de la práctica deportiva.

The present study aimed to describe the levels of motivations to run and commitment to running in Argentine adult runners of both sexes (53% male) from CABA and GBA, analyse the relationships between the mentioned variables and determine which of the motivations were the main predictors of commitment to running. Therefore, the Spanish versions of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale (Masters, Ogles & Jolton, 1993) and the Commitment to Running Scale (Carmack & Martens, 1979) were applied. All participants agreed to participate in the study. The results pointed out levels of commitment to running similar to previous research, along with a positive correlation between commitment to running and all dimensions of motivations to run, reaching the highest score the significance with life - self-esteem and personal goals - competence. Furthermore, these dimensions turned out to be the main predictors of commitment. The results of this study provide a new contribution to promote people's health and the benefits of the sports practice

Massage therapy slightly decreased pain intensity after habitual running, but had no effect on fatigue, mood or physical performance: a randomised trial.

QUESTION: Does massage therapy reduce pain and perceived fatigue in the quadriceps, and improve the mood and physical performance of runners after habitual sporting activity (10-km run)? DESIGN: Randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, intention-to-treat analysis and blinded assessment. PARTICIPANTS: Seventy-eight runners after sporting activity (10-km run). INTERVENTION: The experimental group received 10 minutes of massage to the quadriceps aimed at recovery following sport practice, and the control group received a sham joint mobilisation. OUTCOME MEASURES: Pain and perceived fatigue were each assessed using a 0-to-10 numerical rating scale; pain behaviour via the McGill Pain Questionnaire; mood profile via Brunel Mood Scale; quadriceps muscle flexibility using maximal knee flexion angle via inclinometer; isometric muscle strength of knee extensors via hand-held dynamometry; and vertical jump performance using jump height via My Jump 2 app. Evaluations were carried out immediately before and after the intervention, and at 24, 48 and 72 hours after the intervention. Generalised estimating equations were used to estimate a between-group difference (95% CI) using data across all time points. RESULTS: The experimental group had significantly lower scores than the control group on the numerical rating scale for pain by 0.7 points (95% CI 0.1 to 1.3). There were no significant between-group differences for any of the other outcome measures. CONCLUSION: Massage therapy was effective at reducing pain intensity after application to the quadriceps of runners compared to a sham technique, but the magnitude of the effect was small. There were no significant effects on perceived fatigue, flexibility, strength or jump performance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, RBR-393m7m.

Salicylate induces anxiety-like behavior and slow theta oscillation and abolishes the relationship between running speed and fast theta oscillation frequency.

Salicylate intoxication is a cause of tinnitus in humans and it is often used to produce tinnitus-like perception in animal models. Here, we assess whether salicylate induces anxiety-like electrophysiological and behavioral signs. Using microwire electrode arrays, we recorded local field potential in the ventral and, in some experiments dorsal hippocampus, in an open field arena 1 hr after salicylate (300 mg/kg) injection. We found that animals treated with salicylate moved dramatically less than saline treated animals. Salicylate-treated animals showed a strong 4-6 Hz (type 2) oscillation in the ventral hippocampus (with smaller peaks in dorsal hippocampus electrodes). Coherence in the 4-6 Hz-theta band was low in the ventral and dorsal hippocampus when compared to movement-related theta coherence (7-10 Hz). Moreover, movement related theta oscillation frequency decreased and its dependency on running speed was abolished. Our results suggest that salicylate-induced theta is mostly restricted to the ventral hippocampus. Slow theta has been classically associated to anxiety-like behaviors. Here, we show that salicylate application can consistently generate low frequency theta in the ventral hippocampus. Tinnitus and anxiety show strong comorbidity and the increase in ventral hippocampus low frequency theta could be part of this association.

SeRUN® study: Development of running profiles using a mixed methods analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine profiles of urban runners based on socio-demographic, health, motivational, training characteristics and running-related beliefs and behaviours. METHODS: Mixed, exploratory, sequential study with two stages: 1) quantitative, using an online survey; and 2) qualitative, using semi-structured interviews with runners from the previous stage. Participants were recruited via: running routes commonly attended by runners, eight races, previous databases and social media networks. The survey collected information on six dimensions: (1) socio-demographic; (2) health; (3) motivations; (4) training characteristics; (5) running-related behaviour; and (6) beliefs and perceptions about health. Profiles were identified using a two-step hierarchical clustering analysis. Subsequently, 15 interviews were conducted with participating runners across each of the identified profiles. Qualitative analysis complemented the profiles characterization, explaining motivations to start and continue running, beliefs about risk factors and injury prevention, and the physical therapist's role in rehabilitation. Statistical analysis from stage one was conducted using SPSS 22 with a confidence level of 5%. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic and content analyses. RESULTS: A total of 821 surveys were analysed (46% female), mean aged 36.6±10.0 years. Cluster analysis delineated four profiles (n = 752) according to years of running experience, weekly running volume and hours of weekly training. Profiles were named "Beginner" (n = 163); "Basic" (n = 164); "Middle" (n = 160) and "Advanced" (n = 265). Profiles were statistically different according to sex, age, years of running experience, training characteristics, previous injuries and use of technological devices (p<0.05). There were identified motivations to start and continue running. Beliefs about risk factors vary among stretching, footwear, training surface and overload. Runners identified the physical therapist as a specialist, involved in the rehabilitation process and showing empathy towards the patient. The identification of these profiles allows the generation of future prospective studies and clinical trials to evaluate risk and prognostic factors targeting specific populations of runners, with the ultimate aim of reducing running-related injury.

Motivos de participación en una carrera de fondo, según edad, sexo y experiencia deportiva, en corredores aficionados / Amateur runners' motivations for participating in long-distance races by age, gender, and sports experience / Motivos de participação em uma corrida de fundo, segundo idade, sexo e experiência esportiva em corredores amadores

Resumen Rosales-Obando, D.M.; Araya-Vargas, G. y Rivas-Borbón, O.M. (2018). Motivos de participación en una carrera de fondo, según edad, sexo y experiencia deportiva en corredores aficionados. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 16(1), 1-18. Propósito: examinar los motivos de corredores aficionados para participar en una carrera atlética de fondo, considerando su grupo de edad, experiencia deportiva y sexo. Participaron 404 personas (18 a 88 años; n=271 hombres y n=133 mujeres; entre 2 meses y 40 años de experiencia deportiva; ninguno profesional). Resultados: los motivos para correr relativos al control de peso tienden a perder valor conforme aumenta la experiencia deportiva (hombres r=-.121; p=.046; mujeres r=-.187; p=.031), y los motivos de superación de metas y competición tienden a disminuir su importancia conforme se avanza en edad (hombres r=-.231; p<.001; mujeres r=-.207; p=.017). Este patrón fue similar para ambos sexos. Además, tanto en los hombres como en las mujeres, sus motivos principales para correr fueron los motivos de reconocimiento y los motivos relacionados con significado de vida y autoestima. Conclusión: pese a la naturaleza amateur de la muestra y a su falta de preparación deportiva profesional para competir en carreras de fondo, su perfil motivacional, indistintamente del sexo, se caracteriza por la búsqueda de reconocimiento, significado de vida y autoestima mediante la práctica de esa actividad. Además, los motivos de salud explican poca varianza de la motivación para correr de esta muestra, tanto en hombres como en mujeres.

Abstract Rosales-Obando, D.M.; Araya-Vargas, G. & Rivas-Borbón, O.M. (2018). Amateur runners' motivations for participating in long-distance races by age, gender, and sports experience. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 16(1), 1-18. Purpose: examine amateur runners' motivations for participating in long-distance races, taking into consideration age, sports experience and gender. A total of 404 amateur runners participated (18 to 88 years of age, n=271 men and n=133 women, between 2 months and 40 years of sports experience, none professional). Results: motivations related to weight control tend to lose value as sports experience increases (men r=-.121; p=.046; women r=-.187; p=.031), while motivations related to overcoming goals and competition tend to decrease as age advances (men r=-.231; p<.001; women r=-.207; p=.017). This pattern was similar for both sexes. In addition, both men and women's main motivations for running were recognition and finding meaning to life and self-esteem. Conclusion: despite the amateur nature of the subjects and their lack of professional sports preparation to compete in long-distance races, their motivational profile, regardless of sex, is characterized by the search for recognition, finding meaning to life and self-esteem through the practice of this activity. In addition, health reasons explain little variance in the motivation for running in the sample, both men and women.

Resumo Rosales-Obando, D.M.; Araya-Vargas, G. & Rivas-Borbón, O.M. (2018). Motivos de participação em uma corrida de fundo, segundo idade, sexo e experiência esportiva em corredores amadores. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 16(1), 1-18. Propósito: examinar os motivos de os corredores amadores participarem em uma corrida atlética de fundo, considerando seu grupo de idade, experiência esportiva e sexo. Participaram 404 pessoas (entre 18 a 88 anos; n=271 homens e n=133 mulheres; entre 2 meses e 40 anos de experiência esportiva; nenhum profissional). Resultados: os motivos para correr relacionados com o controle de peso tendem a perder valor conforme aumenta a experiência esportiva (homens r=-.121; p=.046; mulheres r=-.187; p=.031), e os motivos de superação de metas e competição tendem a diminuir em importância conforme a idade avança (homens r=-.231; p<.001; mulheres r=-.207; p=.017). Este padrão foi semelhante para ambos os sexos. Além disso, tanto nos homens quanto nas mulheres, os motivos principais para correr foram os de reconhecimento e os relacionados ao significado de vida e autoestima. Conclusão: apesar da natureza amadora da amostra e sua falta de preparação esportiva profissional para competir em corridas de fundo, seu perfil motivacional, indistintamente do sexo, é caracterizada pela busca de reconhecimento, significado de vida e autoestima, mediante a prática dessa atividade. Também, os motivos de saúde explicam a pouca variabilidade da motivação para correr desta amostra, tanto em homens quanto em mulheres.

Physical exercise prevents short and long-term deficits on aversive and recognition memory and attenuates brain oxidative damage induced by maternal deprivation.

It is known from previous research that physical exercise prevents long-term memory deficits induced by maternal deprivation in rats. But we could not assume similar effects of physical exercise on short-term memory, as short- and long-term memories are known to result from some different memory consolidation processes. Here we demonstrated that, in addition to long-term memory deficit, the short-term memory deficit resultant from maternal deprivation in object recognition and aversive memory tasks is also prevented by physical exercise. Additionally, one of the mechanisms by which the physical exercise influences the memory processes involves its effects attenuating the oxidative damage in the maternal deprived rats' hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.

Speed cells in the medial entorhinal cortex.

Grid cells in the medial entorhinal cortex have spatial firing fields that repeat periodically in a hexagonal pattern. When animals move, activity is translated between grid cells in accordance with the animal's displacement in the environment. For this translation to occur, grid cells must have continuous access to information about instantaneous running speed. However, a powerful entorhinal speed signal has not been identified. Here we show that running speed is represented in the firing rate of a ubiquitous but functionally dedicated population of entorhinal neurons distinct from other cell populations of the local circuit, such as grid, head-direction and border cells. These 'speed cells' are characterized by a context-invariant positive, linear response to running speed, and share with grid cells a prospective bias of ∼50-80 ms. Our observations point to speed cells as a key component of the dynamic representation of self-location in the medial entorhinal cortex.

Head-to-head running race simulation alters pacing strategy, performance, and mood state.

The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of the presence and absence of competitors on pacing, overall running performance, and mood state during a self-paced 3-km run. Nine recreational runners participated in this study. They performed the following tests: a) an incremental test to exhaustion to measure the respiratory compensation point (RCP), maximal oxygen uptake, and peak treadmill speed; b) a submaximal speed constant test to measure running economy; and c) two 3-km running time trials performed collectively (COL, head-to-head competition) or individually (IND, performed alone) to establish pacing and running performance. The COL condition was formed of a group of four runners or five runners. Runners were grouped by matched performance times and to retain head-to-head characteristics.A mood state profile questionnaire was completed before and after the 3-km running time trial. The overall performance was better in the COL than in the IND (11.75 ± 0.05 min vs. 12.25 ± 0.06 min, respectively; p = 0.04). The running speeds during the first 500 m were significantly greater in COL (16.8 ± 2.16 km·h−1) than in IND (15.3 ± 2.45 km·h−1) (p = 0.03).The gain in running speed from IND to COL during the first 400 m (i.e. running speed in COL less running speed in IND) was significantly correlated with the RCP (r = 0.88; p = 0.05). The vigor score significantly decreased from pre- to post-running in COL (p=0.05), but not in IND (p=0.20). Additionally, the post running vigor was significantly higher in IND compared to COL (p = 0.03).These findings suggested that the presence of competitors induces a fast start, which results in an improved overall performance and reduced post-exercise vigor scores, compared to an individual run.

How does music aid 5 km of running?

This research investigated the effects of music and its time of application on a 5-km run. Fifteen well-trained male long-distance runners (24.87 ± 2.47 years; 78.87 ± 10.57 kg; 178 ± 07 cm) participated in this study. Five randomized experimental conditions during a 5-km run on an official track were tested (PM: motivational songs, applied before 5 km of running; SM: slow motivational songs, applied during 5 km of running; FM: fast and motivational songs, applied during 5 km of running; CS: calm songs, applied after 5 km of running; CO: control condition). Psychophysiological assessments were performed before (functional near-infrared spectroscopy, heart rate variability [HRV], valence, and arousal), during (performance time, heart rate, and rate of perceived exertion [RPE]), and after (mood, RPE, and HRV) tests. The chosen songs were considered pleasurable and capable of activating. Furthermore, they activated the 3 assessed prefrontal cortex (PFC) areas (medial, right dorsolateral, and left dorsolateral) similarly, generating positive emotional consequences by autonomous system analysis. The first 800 m was accomplished faster for SM and FM compared with other conditions (p ≤ 0.05); moreover, there was a high probability of improving running performance when music was applied (SM: 89%; FM: 85%; PM: 39%). Finally, music was capable of accelerating vagal tonus after 5 km of running with CS (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, music was able to activate the PFC area, minimize perceptions, improve performance, and accelerate recovery during 5 km of running.

What do recreational runners think about risk factors for running injuries? A descriptive study of their beliefs and opinions.

STUDY DESIGN: Qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews. OBJECTIVES: To describe the beliefs and opinions of runners about risk factors associated with running injuries. BACKGROUND: Despite the health benefits of running, a high prevalence of injury has been reported in runners. Preventive strategies for running injuries may be more successful with a better knowledge of runners' beliefs. METHODS: A semi-structured interview of recreational runners was based on the question, "What do you think can cause injuries in runners?" Analysis of the interviews was performed in 3 steps: (1) organizing the data into thematic units, (2) reading and reorganizing the data according to frequency of citation, and (3) interpreting and summarizing the data. The runner interviews were continued until no new beliefs and opinions of runners regarding injuries were being added to the data, indicating saturation of the topic. RESULTS: A total of 95 recreational runners (65 men, 30 women) between the ages of 19 and 71 years were interviewed. Of those interviewed, the average running experience was 5.5 years and approximately 45% had experienced a running-related injury in the past. The factors suggested by the runners were divided into extrinsic and intrinsic factors. The most cited extrinsic factors were "not stretching," "excess of training," "not warming up," "lack of strength," and "wearing the wrong shoes." For the intrinsic factors, the main terms cited were "not respecting the body's limitations" and "foot-type changes." CONCLUSION: Recreational runners mainly attributed injury to factors related to training, running shoes, and exceeding the body's limits. Knowing the factors identified in this study may contribute to the development of better educational strategies to prevent running injuries, as some of the runners' beliefs are not supported by the research literature.

The symmetry of children's knees is linked to their adult sprinting speed and their willingness to sprint in a long-term Jamaican study.

Jamaican athletes are prominent in sprint running but the reasons for their success are not clear. Here we consider the possibility that symmetry, particularly symmetry of the legs, in Jamaican children is linked to high sprinting speed in adults. Our study population was a cohort of 288 rural children, mean age 8.2 (± 1 SD = 1.7) years in 1996. Symmetry was measured in 1996 and 2006 from the fluctuating asymmetry (FA) of three lower-body traits and we constructed a lower body composite FA trait (Comp lb-FA). In 2010 we measured sprinting speed (for 90 m and 180 m races) in participants recruited from our original cohort. There were 163 untrained adults in our sample. We found: (i) high Comp lb and knee symmetry in 1996 and 2006 were linked to fast sprinting times in our 2010 runners and (ii) our sample of sprinters appears to have self-selected for greater symmetry. We conclude that high knee symmetry in childhood is linked to an ability to sprint fast in adult Jamaicans as well as a readiness to sprint.

A estratégia da seleção no esporte competitivo: um estudo descritivo-exploratório com atletas corredores com mais de 45 anos / Selection strategy in competition sports: an exploring-descriptive study of athletes aged more then 45

Baltes e Baltes (1990) propuseram um modelo de desenvolvimento adaptativo denominado de seleção, otimização e compensação (Modelo SOC). O artigo concentrou análise na estratégia da seleção e apresentou como objetivo o de analisar como atletas corredores selecionaram suas ações na prática esportiva. Foi realizada uma triagem com 83 atletas para, posteriormente, 11 atletas (média de idade 59,91 ± 0,58 anos) preencherem um questionário e realizarem uma entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados provenientes das entrevistas demonstraram que os atletas utilizaram a estratégia da seleção para direcionar sua vida ou superar perdas/dificuldades e com isso permanecerem na prática da corrida ou melhorarem a performance esportiva por mais tempo.

Baltes & Baltes (1990) proposed an adapting developing model called selection, optimization and compensation (SOC Model). This essay analyzed the selection strategy, and focused on the study of how running athletes selected their actions in sports. A first screening test was performed with 83 athletes, and 11 of them (average age 59,91 ± 0,58) answered questions and were submitted to a semi-structured interview. Data from the interviews showed that athletes used selection strategy in order to direct their lives or to overcome any loss/difficulties, and thus they kept their practicing or even improved their sports performance for a longer period.

A estratégia da seleção no esporte competitivo: um estudo descritivo-exploratório com atletas corredores com mais de 45 anos / Selection strategy in competition sports: an exploring-descriptive study of athletes aged more then 45

Baltes e Baltes (1990) propuseram um modelo de desenvolvimento adaptativo denominado de seleção, otimização e compensação (Modelo SOC). O artigo concentrou análise na estratégia da seleção e apresentou como objetivo o de analisar como atletas corredores selecionaram suas ações na prática esportiva. Foi realizada uma triagem com 83 atletas para, posteriormente, 11 atletas (média de idade 59,91 ± 0,58 anos) preencherem um questionário e realizarem uma entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados provenientes das entrevistas demonstraram que os atletas utilizaram a estratégia da seleção para direcionar sua vida ou superar perdas/dificuldades e com isso permanecerem na prática da corrida ou melhorarem a performance esportiva por mais tempo.(AU)

Baltes & Baltes (1990) proposed an adapting developing model called selection, optimization and compensation (SOC Model). This essay analyzed the selection strategy, and focused on the study of how running athletes selected their actions in sports. A first screening test was performed with 83 athletes, and 11 of them (average age 59,91 ± 0,58) answered questions and were submitted to a semi-structured interview. Data from the interviews showed that athletes used selection strategy in order to direct their lives or to overcome any loss/difficulties, and thus they kept their practicing or even improved their sports performance for a longer period.(AU)

Listening to music in the first, but not the last 1.5 km of a 5-km running trial alters pacing strategy and improves performance.

We examined the effects of listening to music on attentional focus, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), pacing strategy and performance during a simulated 5-km running race. 15 participants performed 2 controlled trials to establish their best baseline time, followed by 2 counterbalanced experimental trials during which they listened to music during the first (M start) or the last (M finish) 1.5 km. The mean running velocity during the first 1.5 km was significantly higher in M start than in the fastest control condition (p<0.05), but there was no difference in velocity between conditions during the last 1.5 km (p>0.05). The faster first 1.5 m in M start was accompanied by a reduction in associative thoughts compared with the fastest control condition. There were no significant differences in RPE between conditions (p>0.05). These results suggest that listening to music at the beginning of a trial may draw the attentional focus away from internal sensations of fatigue to thoughts about the external environment. However, along with the reduction in associative thoughts and the increase in running velocity while listening to music, the RPE increased linearly and similarly under all conditions, suggesting that the change in velocity throughout the race may be to maintain the same rate of RPE increase.

Treadmill running frequency on anxiety and hippocampal adenosine receptors density in adult and middle-aged rats.

Physical exercise protocols have varied widely across studies raising the question of whether there is an optimal intensity, duration and frequency that would produce maximal benefits in attenuating symptoms related to anxiety disorders. Although physical exercise causes modifications in neurotransmission systems, the involvement of neuromodulators such as adenosine has not been investigated after chronic exercise training. Anxiety-related behavior was assessed in the elevated plus-maze in adult and middle-aged rats submitted to 8 weeks of treadmill running 1, 3 or 7 days/week. The speed of running was weekly adjusted to maintain moderate intensity. The hippocampal adenosine A1 and A2A receptors densities were also assessed. Treadmill running protocol was efficient in increasing physical exercise capacity in adult and middle-aged rats. All frequencies of treadmill running equally decreased the time spent in the open arms in adult animals. Middle-aged treadmill control rats presented lower time spent in the open arms than adult treadmill control rats. However, treadmill running one day/week reversed this age effect. Adenosine A1 receptor was not changed between groups, but treadmill running counteracted the age-related increase in adenosine A2A receptors. Although treadmill running, independent from frequency, triggered anxiety in adult rats and treadmill running one day/week reversed the age-related anxiety, no consistent relationship was found with hippocampal adenosine receptors densities. Thus, our data suggest that as a complementary therapy in the management of mental disturbances, the frequency and intensity of physical exercise should be taken into account according to age. Besides, this is the first study reporting the modulation of adenosine receptors after chronic physical exercise, which could be important to prevent neurological disorders associated to increase in adenosine A2A receptors.

Effect of performance level on pacing strategy during a 10-km running race.

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of the performance level of athletes on pacing strategy during a simulated 10-km running race, and the relationship between physiological variables and pacing strategy. Twenty-four male runners performed an incremental exercise test on a treadmill, three 6-min bouts of running at 9, 12 and 15 km h(-1), and a self-paced, 10-km running performance trial; at least 48 h separated each test. Based on 10-km running performance, subjects were divided into terziles, with the lower terzile designated the low-performing (LP) and the upper terzile designated the high-performing (HP) group. For the HP group, the velocity peaked at 18.8 +/- 1.4 km h(-1) in the first 400 m and was higher than the average race velocity (P < 0.05). The velocity then decreased gradually until 2,000 m (P < 0.05), remaining constant until 9,600 m, when it increased again (P < 0.05). The LP group ran the first 400 m at a significantly lower velocity than the HP group (15.6 +/- 1.6 km h(-1); P > 0.05) and this initial velocity was not different from LP average racing velocity (14.5 +/- 0.7 km h(-1)). The velocity then decreased non-significantly until 9,600 m (P > 0.05), followed by an increase at the end (P < 0.05). The peak treadmill running velocity (PV), running economy (RE), lactate threshold (LT) and net blood lactate accumulation at 15 km h(-1) were significantly correlated with the start, middle, last and average velocities during the 10-km race. These results demonstrate that high and low performance runners adopt different pacing strategies during a 10-km race. Furthermore, it appears that important determinants of the chosen pacing strategy include PV, LT and RE.

Corridas de aventura: o mito do herói, a aventura e a representação mítica da natureza / Aventure races: the hero's myth, the adventure and the mythical representation of nature / Competencias de aventura: el mito del héroe, la aventura y la representación mítica de la naturaleza

As corridas de aventura são eventos esportivos que possuem características peculiares e seus participantes evidenciam subjetividades distintas daquelas encontradas nos atletas participantes dos esportes tradicionais. Foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa amparada pela antropologia complexa com o objetivo de refletir sobre o mito do herói e a mitificação da natureza encontrados nos discursos dos participantes de corridas de aventura. A análise dos dados permitiu construir uma tela tecida com os discursos dos atletas e as teorias, formando uma espiral na qual a pesquisa de campo (entrevista semi-estruturada - análise de conteúdos) está entrelaçada à pesquisa teórica, constituindo uma totalidade. Os resultados evidenciam que a partir das vivências ocorridas no decorrer das corridas de aventura os atletas expõem simbolismos relacionados à mitificação da natureza, bem como a incorporação do mito do herói em diversos contextos encontrados nesses eventos esportivos

The adventure races are sporty events that own peculiar characteristics and your participants evidence distinct subjetivities from those found in the participants athletes of the traditional sports. It was acccomplished a qualitative reserarch aided by the complex anthropology with the goal of reflecting about hero's myth and for mythicizetion of nature found in the speeches of the participants of adventure races. The data analysis allowed to build a web woven with athletes' speeches and theories, forming a spiral in which the field research (interview semi-structured - contents analysis) is interlaced the theoretical research, constituting a totality. The results evidence that from the existences occurred during the adventure races the athletes expose smbolisms related to mythicizetion of nature, as well as the hero myth incorporation in several found contexts in these sporty events.