Examining the Influence of Warm-Up Static and Dynamic Stretching, as well as Post-Activation Potentiation Effects, on the Acute Enhancement of Gymnastic Performance: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

The primary objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis is to methodically discern and compare the impact of diverse warm-up strategies, including both static and dynamic stretching, as well as post-activation potentiation techniques, on the immediate performance of gymnasts. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this paper evaluated studies that examined the gymnasts' performance after different warm-up strategies namely stretching (static [SS] or dynamic), vibration platforms (VP) or post-activation, in comparison to control conditions (e.g., mixed warm-up routines; no warm-up). The principal outcomes were centered on technical performance metrics (e.g., split, gymnastic jumps) and physical performance metrics (e.g., squat jump, countermovement jump, drop jump, balance, range of motion). Methodological assessments of the included studies were conducted using the Downs and Black Checklist. From the initial search across PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science databases, a total of 591 titles were retrieved, and 19 articles were ultimately incorporated in the analysis. The results revealed a non-significant differences (p > 0.05) between the SS condition and control conditions in squat jump performance, countermovement jump and gymnastic technical performance (e.g., split; split jump). Despite the difference in warm-up strategies and outcomes analyzed, the results suggest that there is no significant impairment of lower-limb power after SS. Additionally, technical elements dependent on flexibility appear to be enhanced by SS. Conversely, dynamic stretching and VP seem to be more effective for augmenting power-related and dynamic performance in gymnasts.

Genetic polymorphisms related to muscular strength and flexibility are associated with artistic gymnastic performance in the Japanese population.

This study aimed to examine how genetic polymorphisms related to muscular strength and flexibility influence artistic gymnastic performance in an attempt to identify a novel polymorphism associated with flexibility. In study 1, the passive straight-leg-raise (PSLR) score and aromatase gene CYP19A1 rs936306 polymorphism, a key enzyme for estrogen biosynthesis, were assessed in 278 individuals. In study 2, athletes (281 gymnasts and 1908 other athletes) were asked about their competition level, and gymnasts were assessed using the difficulty score (D-score) for each event. Muscular strength- (ACTN3 R577X rs1815739 and ACE I/D rs4341) and flexibility-related (ESR1 rs2234693 T/C and CYP19A1 rs936306 C/T) genetic polymorphisms were analyzed. In study 1, males with the CYP19A1 CT + TT genotype showed significantly higher PSLR scores than those with the CC genotype. In study 2, male gymnasts with the R allele of ACTN3 R577X showed a correlation with the floor, rings, vault, and total D-scores. In addition, male gymnasts with the C allele of ESR1 T/C and T allele of CYP19A1 C/T polymorphisms were correlated with the pommel horse, parallel bars, horizontal bar, and total D-scores. Furthermore, genotype scores of these three polymorphisms correlated with the total D-scores and competition levels in male gymnasts. In contrast, no such associations were observed in female gymnasts. Our findings suggest that muscular strength- and flexibility-related polymorphisms play important roles in achieving high performance in male artistic gymnastics by specifically influencing the performance of events that require muscular strength and flexibility, respectively.HighlightsEstrogen-related CYP19A1 polymorphism is a novel determinant of flexibility in males.Muscular strength- and flexibility-related polymorphisms play important roles in high performance in male artistic gymnastics.Genotypes of ACTN3 R577X, ESR1 rs2234693, and CYP19A1 rs936306 may contribute to training plan optimization and event selection in artistic gymnastics.

Construct validity of gymnastics-specific assessment on the neuromuscular function of shoulder flexor and extensor muscles.

The present study examined the construct validity of gymnastics-specific measurements of the shoulder flexor and extensor neuromuscular function. Fifteen male gymnasts and 18 male physical education (PE) students participated voluntarily. The electromyogram (EMG) of 3 flexor and 3 extensor shoulder muscles was assessed during isometric (45, 90, and 135º) and isokinetic (concentric and eccentric 60, 180, and 300º/s) shoulder flexion/extension. Peak torque (PT) and neuromuscular function in terms of neuromuscular efficiency (NME, i.e. torque to EMG ratio) and antagonist/agonist coactivation index were evaluated. The construct validity of the measurements was supported by the ability to discriminate between gymnasts and physical education (PE) students, taking into consideration the shoulders' neuromuscular function parameters (37%-57% of the variability explained). After accounting for the limitations of the study, these findings may assist gymnastics coaches and researchers to develop and evaluate more effective training methods for athletes related to shoulder joint physiological characteristics and level of expertise.

Validity of Gymnastics-Specific Assessment of Neuromuscular Function of Shoulder Flexor and Extensor Muscles to Predict Performance in Gymnastics Skills.

ABSTRACT: Milosis, DC. Validity of gymnastics-specific assessment of neuromuscular function of shoulder flexor and extensor muscles to predict performance in gymnastics skills. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): 652-660, 2023-This study examined the relationships between gymnastics-specific laboratory measurements of neuromuscular function of the shoulder flexor and extensor muscles and performance in specific gymnastics skills. Fifteen highly competitive male gymnasts and 18 male students (age 20.41 ± 2.51 years, body mass 69.7 ± 7.07 kg; mean ± SD ) participated voluntarily. The electromyogram (EMG) was used to assess muscle activation of 3 flexor and 3 extensor shoulder muscles during isometric (45, 90, and 135°) and isokinetic (concentric and eccentric 60, 180, and 300°/s) flexion-extension of the shoulder. Peak torque (PT), neuromuscular efficiency (NME: torque to EMG ratio), and antagonist coactivation index (CI) were evaluated. Furthermore, performance in specific gymnastics skills was evaluated. The results supported the ecological validity of the measurements. Specifically, significant correlations emerged between the shoulders' neuromuscular function parameters and the performance in the gymnastics skills (PT: r = 0.798, p < 0.001, NME: r = 0.576, p < 0.001, CI: r = -0.351, p < 0.05). In addition, according to the results of the regression analysis, neuromuscular function of the shoulder flexor and extensor muscles predicted gymnastics performance. Specifically, the model that was produced significantly predicted the dependent variable (performance in specific gymnastics skills) in all steps and explained a total variance of 64.4% ( p < 0.001). Based on beta coefficients, PT had the higher contribution to the prediction of performance. The insight gained on these relationships could help coaches to plan the training of their gymnasts and to monitor the longitudinal changes in neuromuscular function of shoulder muscles induced by training more effectively.

Physical fitness in core strengthening training in university students practicing aerobic gymnastics / Aptidão física no treino de fortalecimento do core em universitárias praticantes de ginástica aeróbica / Aptitud física en el entrenamiento de fortalecimiento del core en estudiantes universitarias que practican gimnasia aeróbica

ABSTRACT Introduction Aerobic gymnastics is an emerging sport. It develops mainly the aerobic body metabolism improving the cardiopulmonary function of the practitioner. Objective To analyze the influence of core strength training on the physical fitness of university athletes who practice aerobic gymnastics. Methods Using mathematical statistics, we studied the influence of aerobic exercise on the physical fitness of female college athletes. The fitness index test of female college aerobics athletes was performed with Excel 2007, and the obtained results were discussed. Results College female students showed significant improvement in somatization, interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, and other four factors after aerobic gymnastics exercise (P<0.05). After the practice period, female college students improved orthostatic performance, long jump, stretching in sitting forward position, 1 minute sitting, running four times round trip for 10 meters, and 800 meters. The increase was 11.16cm, 5.02cm, 8.34 times/min, 2.13s, and 9.42s. Conclusion Core training in aerobic gymnastics can strengthen the body, allowing awareness of physical training in college women. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the results.

RESUMO Introdução A ginástica aeróbica é um esporte emergente. Ela desenvolve principalmente o metabolismo aeróbico corporal aprimorando a função cardiopulmonar do praticante. Objetivo Analisar a influência no treino de fortalecimento do core sobre a aptidão física em atletas universitárias praticantes de ginástica aeróbica. Métodos Utilizando estatísticas matemáticas, estuda-se a influência do exercício aeróbico sobre a aptidão física das atletas universitárias. O teste do índice de aptidão física de atletas de aeróbica feminina de faculdades foi executado com Excel 2007 e discutiu-se os resultados obtidos. Resultados As estudantes universitárias apresentaram melhora significativa na somatização, sensibilidade interpessoal, ansiedade, e outros quatro fatores após o exercício de ginastica aeróbica (P<0,05). Após o período de prática, as estudantes universitárias tiveram melhora no desempenho ortostático, salto à distância, no alongamento em posição sentadas para frente, 1 minuto sentadas, corrida 4 vezes de ida e volta por 10 metros, e 800 metros. O aumento foi respectivamente de 11,16cm, 5,02cm, 8,34 vezes/min, 2,13s, e 9,42s. Conclusão O treino do core na ginástica aeróbica pode fortalecer o corpo, permitindo a conscientização do treino físico nas universitárias. Nível de evidência II; Estudos Terapêuticos - Investigação de Resultados.

RESUMEN Introducción La gimnasia aeróbica es un deporte emergente. Desarrolla principalmente el metabolismo corporal aeróbico mejorando la función cardiopulmonar del practicante. Objetivo Analizar la influencia del entrenamiento del core en la aptitud física en atletas universitarias que practican gimnasia aeróbica. Métodos Utilizando la estadística matemática, se estudió la influencia del ejercicio aeróbico en la aptitud física de las atletas universitarias. La prueba del índice de aptitud física de las atletas universitarias de aerobismo se realizó con Excel 2007 y se discutieron los resultados obtenidos. Resultados Las estudiantes universitarias mostraron una mejora significativa en la somatización, la sensibilidad interpersonal, la ansiedad y otros cuatro factores después del ejercicio de gimnasia aeróbica (P<0,05). Después del periodo de práctica, las estudiantes universitarias tuvieron una mejora en el rendimiento ortostático, en el salto de longitud, en el estiramiento en posición sentada hacia delante, en la posición sentada de 1 minuto, en la carrera de 4 vueltas de 10 metros y en los 800 metros. El aumento fue, respectivamente, de 11,16 cm, 5,02 cm, 8,34 veces/min, 2,13 s y 9,42 s. Conclusión El entrenamiento del core en la gimnasia aeróbica puede fortalecer el cuerpo, permitiendo la concienciación del entrenamiento físico en las estudiantes universitarias. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de resultados.

Relationship between judges' scores and dive attributes from a video recording of a diving competition.

Sports such as diving, gymnastics, and ice skating rely on expert judges to score performance accurately. Human error and bias can affect the scores, sometimes leading to controversy, especially at high levels. Instant replay or recorded video can be used to assess judges' scores, or sometimes update judges' scores, during a competition. For diving in particular, judges are trained to look for certain characteristics of a dive, such as angle of entry, height of splash, and distance of the dive from the end of the board, to score each dive on a scale of 0 to 10, where a 0 is a failed dive and a 10 is a perfect dive. In an effort to obtain objective comparisons for judges' scores, a diving meet was filmed and the video footage used to measure certain characteristics of each dive for each participant. The variables measured from the video were height of the dive at its apex, angle of entry into the water, and distance of the dive from the end of the board. The measured items were then used as explanatory variables in a regression model where the judge's scores were the response. The measurements from the video are gathered to provide a gold standard that is specific to the athletic performances at the meet being judged, and supplement judges' scores with synergistic quantitative and visual information. In this article we show, via a series of regression analyses, that certain aspects of an athlete's performance measured from video after a meet provide similar information to the judges' scores. The model was shown to fit the data well enough to warrant use of characteristics from video footage to supplement judges' scores in future meets. In addition, we calibrated the results from the model against those of meets where the same divers competed to show that the measurement data ranks divers in approximately the same order as they were ranked in other meets, showing meet to meet consistency in measured data and judges' scores. Eventually, our findings could lead to use of video footage to supplement judges' scores in real time.

Elbow Joint Position and Force Senses in Young and Adult Untrained People and Gymnasts.

Joint position (JPS) and force senses (FS) are the proprioception modalities. While the development of JPS was investigated both in children/adult and athlete/untrained conditions, there is a lack of insight into the development of FS. Overall, 28 gymnasts and 25 untrained controls underwent proprioception testing. They were divided into two groups: 9 to 11-year-old boys (13 gymnasts and 10 non-athletes) and 18 to 25-year-old adults (15 gymnasts and 15 non-athletes). The testing was performed at an isokinetic dynamometer and included elbow JPS and FS (20% and 50% maximal voluntary contraction) tasks. Children had two times higher error in JPS (p < 0.01) and 50% higher errors in FS of both flexor (p < 0.001) and extensor muscles (p < 0.05) in comparison with adults. Only in the 50% maximal voluntary contraction task, gymnasts showed 33% lower error than the controls (p < 0.01). Untrained boys presented 54%, 132%, and 169% higher error for elbow flexor performance than young gymnasts, untrained adults, and adult gymnasts, respectively (p < 0.01). The 9 to 11-year-old participants were characterized by a lower precision of JPS and FS performance in comparison with adults. Gymnastic training can possibly accelerate the development of FS when higher loads are considered.

Whole-Body Vibration Effects on Flexibility in Artistic Gymnastics-A Systematic Review.

It is well documented that whole body-vibration training has effects on muscle strength and flexibility, blood circulation, decreases pain perception and strengthens bone and tendon. Although whole body-vibration has benefits in athletes' flexibility, we are not sure what its actual effects are in artistic gymnastics (since they already have stunning flexibility). Hence, the aim of this study was to analyse the studies on whole-body vibration in artistic gymnastics and to present the effects on flexibility. The search and analysis were carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The databases search (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, EBSCOhost and Science Direct) yielded 18,057 potential studies. By the given inclusion criteria (studies from 2005 to 2022; full-text published in English; the study included male and female gymnasts as samples, and that participants were tested for evaluation of flexibility by whole-body vibration method), a total of 9 full-text studies were included, with a total of 210 participants, both male and female. As far as the measured flexibility tests conducted, front split, sit and reach and bridge were evaluated, while obtained results were 9.1-39.1%, 2.79-6.7%, 6.43-7.45%, respectively. All studies have conducted same vibration frequency (30 Hz) with same amplitude of displacements (2 mm), except for the one study who did not show the information of implemented amplitude. After analysing the obtained results, it can be concluded that the usage of whole-body vibration platform shows flexibility improvements in artistic gymnasts, both male and female. In addition, a combination of whole-body vibration and traditional static stretching may enhance the flexibility in artistic gymnasts. However, these results should be taken with caution. Since this review did not reveal the optimal vibrational protocol, it is necessary to invest time during the implementation of various vibrational experimental protocols, so future research is required.

Regular Gymnastics for Three Weeks Lowers Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels in Older Women.

Background: The goal of this study is to see how elderly gymnastics affect blood pressure, plasma glucose levels, and total cholesterol levels in women over the age of 65. Objective: The purpose of this study is to look into the effects of gymnastics on changes in blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and total cholesterol levels in the elderly.. Methods: Thirty-four female elderly women were divided into two groups: those who received gymnastics and those who did not. For three weeks, regular gymnastics exercises were performed on a weekly basis. Blood pressure, plasma glucose levels, and total cholesterol levels were measured using standard techniques and methods. Results: When compared to controls, regular gymnastics exercise can significantly lower blood pressure (p < 0.05). This decrease is also observed in total cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Elderly gymnastics was found to lower blood pressure and total cholesterol levels in the elderly. As a result, elderly gymnastics could be a viable option for preventing cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.

Biomechanical responses to landing strategies of female artistic gymnasts.

Inconsistencies between sexes in the landing criteria provided by the international gymnastics governing body (FIG) may predispose female gymnasts to lower extremity injury. This study aimed to investigate lower extremity biomechanics when performing the male and female landing strategy. Seven collegiate, female gymnasts (age: 20.5 ± 1.2 years, height: 1.64 ± 0.06 m, mass: 60.4 ± 10.2 kg) performed drop landings using the prescribed women's and men's landing strategy. Kinematic and kinetic data from 10 trials of each landing strategy were collected. Differences between landing strategy at individual and group level for key injury risk variables of the lower limb were explored. Group differences (p ≤ .05) were reported in the sagittal range of motion (ROM) at the knees and hips, with the men's landing strategy eliciting a larger ROM decelerating the body upon impact. Large inter and intra-individual variation was apparent with different movement responses shown across individuals and demonstrating degeneracy as gymnasts satisfied the overall landing objective. These results indicate an individually favoured landing strategy to fulfil the informational constraints and hence supporting the use of a single-subject design. The current study emphasises the potential injury risk associated with the different informational constraints placed on females' landing strategy by the FIG, whilst recognising the individual gymnasts' task response.Highlights An increase in the range of motion at the knee and hip may support the recommendation of the men's landing style.Gymnasts appear to utilise individual landing strategies to complete the landing objective, supporting the use of a single-subject design.

Estimated energy expenditure and training intensity in young female artistic gymnasts

Abstract Aim: This study determined the energy expenditure and effort intensity of athletes during women's artistic gymnastics training sessions. Methods: Ten gymnasts (age 10.9 ± 1.7 years) performed a test to estimate the maximum rate of oxygen uptake (VO2max), during which the maximum heart rate (HRmax) was also obtained. The heart rate (HR) of these gymnasts was recorded during five training sessions and then used to estimate the exercise intensity and energy expenditure. Results: Mean duration of training sessions was 4.08 ± 0.42 h, with mean HR corresponding to 137 ± 8 bpm or 69.0 ± 3.5% of HRmax. Gymnasts spent less training time at 90-100% HRmax compared to the other HR ranges (p < 0.05). Time spent at 60-70% and 70-80% was higher compared to 80-90% HRmax (p = 0.012 and p = 0.001, respectively). The training impulse was 239.2 ± 35.4 AU. Estimated energy expenditure was 768.3 ± 168.5 kcal, metabolic rate was 3.1 ± 0.6 kcal/min, and the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) corresponded to 6.1 ± 0.6. Conclusion: Young gymnasts performed prolonged and moderate-intensity training sessions that generated high energetic demands. This information is beneficial to gymnasts since the coaching team can use the data to control the training load and prescribe a proper diet.

Development of Muscle-Tendon Adaptation in Preadolescent Gymnasts and Untrained Peers: A 12-Month Longitudinal Study.

PURPOSE: The current study investigated the effects of long-term athletic training on the development of the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit in preadolescence. METHODS: Eleven preadolescent untrained children and a group of 21 artistic gymnastics athletes of similar age (9 ± 1.7 yr) and maturity (Tanner stages I and II) participated in the study. The measurements were conducted every 3 months for 1 yr, and training volume and duration of the athletes were documented. Plantar flexor muscle strength, Achilles tendon stiffness, maximum tendon strain, and gastrocnemius medialis morphometrics were measured by integrating kinematics, ultrasonography, and dynamometry. A linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze the investigated parameters. RESULTS: We found greater muscle strength (P < 0.001) in athletes compared with nonathletes but no differences in Achilles tendon stiffness (P = 0.252), indicating a training-induced imbalanced adaptation of muscle strength and tendon stiffness in preadolescent athletes. Although pennation angle (P = 0.490), thickness (P = 0.917), and fascicle length (P = 0.667) did not differ between groups, we found higher fluctuations in pennation angle and muscle strength over 1 yr in athletes. The imbalanced adaptation of muscle strength and tendon stiffness together with greater fluctuations of muscle strength resulted in greater tendon strain fluctuations over 1 yr (P = 0.017) and a higher frequency of athletes with high-level tendon strain (≥9%) compared with nonathletes. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate an increased mechanical demand for the tendon in preadolescent athletes that could have implications for the risk of tendon overuse injury. Therefore, we recommend the implementation of individual training approaches to preserve a balanced adaptation within the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit in preadolescent athletes.

Connectome analysis of male world-class gymnasts using probabilistic multishell, multitissue constrained spherical deconvolution tracking.

In athletes, long-term intensive training has been shown to increase unparalleled athletic ability and might induce brain plasticity. We evaluated the structural connectome of world-class gymnasts (WCGs), as mapped by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging probabilistic tractography and a multishell, multitissue constrained spherical deconvolution method to increase the precision of tractography at the tissue interfaces. The connectome was mapped in 10 Japanese male WCGs and in 10 age-matched male controls. Network-based statistic identified subnetworks with increased connectivity density in WCGs, involving the sensorimotor, default mode, attentional, visual, and limbic areas. It also revealed a significant association between the structural connectivity of some brain structures with functions closely related to the gymnastic skills and the D-score, which is used as an index of the gymnasts' specific physical abilities for each apparatus. Furthermore, graph theory analysis demonstrated the characteristics of brain anatomical topology in the WCGs. They displayed significantly increased global connectivity strength with decreased characteristic path length at the global level and higher nodal strength and degree in the sensorimotor, default mode, attention, and limbic/subcortical areas at the local level as compared with controls. Together, these findings extend the current understanding of neural mechanisms that distinguish WCGs from controls and suggest brain anatomical network plasticity in WCGs resulting from long-term intensive training. Future studies should assess the contribution of genetic or early-life environmental factors in the brain network organization of WCGs. Furthermore, the indices of brain topology (i.e., connection density and graph theory indices) could become markers for the objective evaluation of gymnastic performance.

A Longitudinal Study of Bone Mineral Accrual during Growth in Competitive Premenarcheal Rhythmic Gymnasts.

The purpose of this investigation was to study whether prolonged competitive rhythmic gymnastics training influenced bone mineral accrual in premenarcheal girls. Eighty-nine girls (45 rhythmic gymnasts [RG] and 44 untrained controls [UC]) between 7 and 9 years of age were recruited and measured annually for four years (not all participants were measured at every occasion). Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry was used to assess the development of whole body (WB), femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS) bone mineral content (BMC). In addition, body composition, blood adipokine and jumping performance characteristics were obtained. For longitudinal analyses, hierarchical mixed-effects models were constructed to predict differences in the development of WB, FN and LS BMC between RG and UC groups, while accounting for differences in body composition, blood adipokine and jumping performance values. It appeared that from 8 years of age, RG had lower (p < 0.05) fat mass and leptin values, and higher (p < 0.05) jumping performance measures in comparison with UC girls. Hierarchical mixed-effects models demonstrated that RG had 71.9 ± 12.0, 0.23 ± 0.11 and 1.39 ± 0.42 g more (p < 0.05) WB, FN and LS BMC, respectively, in comparison with UC girls. In addition, WB, FN and LS BMC increased more (p < 0.05) between 7 to 12 years of age in RG girls in comparison with UC. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the prolonged exposure to competitive rhythmic gymnastics trainings in premenarcheal girls is associated with greater bone mineral accrual despite lower body fat mass and leptin values.

In vivo loading on the hip joint in patients with total hip replacement performing gymnastics and aerobics exercises.

A further increase in the number of total hip arthroplasty (THA) is predicted, in particular the number of young THA patients has raised and with it their demands. There is no standardized evidence-based rehabilitation program and no reliable guidelines for sports activities after THA. Stretching and strengthening gymnastics are routinely performed in rehabilitation and aerobics as a sport after THA. The aim of the investigation was to determine the in vivo force and moments acting on the hip prosthesis during gymnastics and aerobic exercises to provide a source for evidence-based recommendations. Hip joint loads were measured in six patients with instrumented hip implants. The resulting force FRes, bending moment MBend at the neck and torsional moment MTors at the stem were examined during seven strengthening (with two different resistance bands) and four stretching gymnastic exercises and seven aerobic exercises with and without an aerobic step board compared to the loads during the reference activity walking. The stretching and strengthening gymnastics exercises and the aerobic exercises with and without a board demonstrated in their median peak force and moments mostly lower or similar values compared to walking. Significantly increased loads were recorded for the flexor stretching exercise in monopod stand (Fres and MBend), the strengthening abduction exercise on the chair (MTors) and the strengthening flexion exercise with the stronger resistance band (MTors). We also found a significant increase in median peak values in aerobic exercises with a board for the "Basic Step" (ipsilateral started Fres and MTors; contralateral started MTors), "Kickstep ipsilateral started" (Fres and MTors) and "Over the Top contralateral started" (Fres). The in vivo loads in THA patients during frequently performed stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises were demonstrated for the first time. It was proved that stretching gymnastic exercises are safe in terms of resulting force, bending and torque moments for THA patients, although an external assistance for stabilization may be considered. Strengthening gymnastics exercises are reliable in terms of Fres, MBend and MTors, but, based on our data, we recommend to adhere to the communicated specific postoperative restrictions and select the resistance bands with lower tension. Aerobic exercises without an aerobic board can be considered as reliable activity in terms of force and moments for THA patients. Aerobic exercises with a board are not recommended for the early postoperative period and in our opinion need to be adapted to the individual muscular and coordinative resources.

Ulnar-Sided Wrist Pain in the Athlete: Sport-Specific Demands, Clinical Presentation, and Management Options.

ABSTRACT: Ulnar-sided wrist injuries are common in sports that require repeated pronosupination, wrist radial/ulnar deviation, axial loading, and gripping equipment. Common anatomic structures affected include the triangular fibrocartilage complex, extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, distal radioulnar and ulnocarpal joints, and hamate bone. Presenting symptoms include pain with activity, swelling, possible snapping or clicking, and reproduction of symptoms with provocative maneuvers. Imaging may confirm or rule out pathologies, but abnormal findings also may present in asymptomatic athletes. Initial treatment is usually nonoperative with splinting, load management, activity modification, strengthening the components of the kinetic chain of the particular sport, and pain management. Surgery is usually indicated in ulnar-wrist pain pathology such as hook of hamate fractures and required in associated instability. Future research should address specific treatment and rehabilitation protocols, emphasizing the complete kinetic chain along with the injured wrist.

Serum levels of bone formation and resorption markers in relation to vitamin D status in professional gymnastics and physically active men during upper and lower body high-intensity exercise.

PURPOSE/INTRODUCTION: To compare serum levels of bone turnover markers in athletes and non-athletes, and to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D metabolites and exercise-induced changes in biomarker levels. METHODS: Sixteen elite male artistic gymnasts (EG; 21.4 ± 0.8 years-old) and 16 physically active men (the control group, PAM; 20.9 ± 1.2 years-old) performed lower and upper body 30-s Wingate anaerobic tests (LBWT and UBWT, respectively). For biomarker analysis, blood samples were collected before, and 5 and 30 min after exercise. Samples for vitamin D levels were collected before exercise. N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) was analysed as a marker of bone formation. C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) was analysed as a marker of bone resorption. RESULTS: UBWT fitness readings were better in the EG group than in the PAM group, with no difference in LBWT readings between the groups. UBWT mean power was 8.8% higher in subjects with 25(OH)D3 levels over 22.50 ng/ml and in those with 24,25(OH)2D3 levels over 1.27 ng/ml. Serum CTX levels increased after both tests in the PAM group, with no change in the EG group. PINP levels did not change in either group; however, in PAM subjects with 25(OH)D3 levels above the median, they were higher than those in EG subjects. CONCLUSION: Vitamin D metabolites affect the anaerobic performance and bone turnover markers at rest and after exercise. Further, adaptation to physical activity modulates the effect of anaerobic exercise on bone metabolism markers.

Perfil dermatoglífico y potencialidades físicas de niñas de gimnasia artística de competencia: Comparación con no gimnastas / Dermatoglyphic profile in competitive artistic gymnastics girls: Comparison with non-gymnasts / Perfil dermatoglífico e potencial físico de meninas concorrentes em ginástica artística: comparação com não ginastas

OBJETIVO: Identificar las potencialidades físicas, a través de perfiles dermatoglíficos, de niñas gimnastas de competencia comparadas con niñas no gimnastas. MÉTODO: Se midieron niñas no gimnastas (n=50) y niñas gimnastas (n=50) participantes en el Campeonato Regional de bases 2018, Zona 1 Norte de México, de los estados de Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California, Baja California Sur y Chihuahua. Lo anterior a través del método dermatoglífico informatizado, sobre la base del protocolo propuesto por Cummins y Midlo, que consiste en la toma de las huellas de los 10 dedos de las manos. RESULTADOS: Las gimnastas exhiben mayor coordinación motora, agilidad y resistencia, ya que presentan valores más altos en marcas dactilares como verticilos y delta 10. Absolutamente todas las formulas encontradas en las gimnastas presentan verticilos (coordinación y agilidad), aunque en diferente proporción. Las fórmulas que más se repiten en ambos grupos son presillas>verticilos (gimnastas 48% y no gimnastas 44%) y verticilos> presillas (gimnastas 26% y no gimnasta 16%). Notando que, aunque en las niñas no gimnastas también aparecen dichas formulas, en este grupo tienden a diversificarse de forma clara. CONCLUSIONES: Se logra definir que los verticilos, que correlacionan con coordinación y agilidad, son huellas de suma importancia en la práctica de la gimnasta, que junto con un delta 10 (promedio) de 14 y un alto conteo de líneas en los dedos de la mano izquierda, como elementos indispensables en el perfil dermatoglífico en la gimnasia

OBJECTIVE: To identify the physical potentialities, through dermatoglyphic profiles, of competitive gymnast girls compared to non-gymnast girls. METHOD: Non-gymnast girls (n = 50) and gymnast girls (n = 50) participating in the 2018 Regional Base Championship, Zone 1 North of Mexico, of the states of Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California, Baja California Sur and Chihuahua The above through the computerized dermatoglyphic method, on the basis of the protocol proposed by Cummins and Midlo, which consists of making the fingerprints of the 10 fingers. RESULTS: Gymnasts exhibit greater motor coordination, agility and endurance, since they have higher values in fingerprints such as whorls and delta 10. Absolutely all the formulas found in gymnasts have whorls (coordination and agility), although in different proportions. The formulas that are repeated in both groups are loops>whorls (gymnasts 48% and not gymnasts 44%) and whorls>loops (gymnasts 26% and non-gymnasts 16%). Noting that, although in non-gymnast girls such formulas also appear, in this group they tend to diversify clearly. CONCLUSIONS: It is possible to define that whorls, which correlate with coordination and agility, are traces of the utmost importance in the gymnast's practice, which together with a delta 10 (average) of 14 and a high count of lines on the fingers of the left hand, as essential elements in the dermatoglyphic profile in gymnastics

OBJETIVO: Identificar as potencialidades físicas, por meio de perfis dermatoglíficos, de meninas ginastas de competição em comparação com não ginastas. MÉTODO: Foram medidas meninas não ginastas (n = 50) e meninas ginastas (n = 50) que participam do Campeonato Regional de 2018, Zona 1 ao norte do México, dos estados de Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California, Baja California Sur e Chihuahua O exposto acima, pelo método dermatoglífico computadorizado, com base no protocolo proposto por Cummins e Midlo, que consiste em fazer as impressões digitais dos 10 dedos. RESULTADOS: As ginastas apresentam maior coordenação motora, agilidade e resistência, pois apresentam valores mais altos nas impressões digitais como espirais e delta 10. Absolutamente todas as fórmulas encontradas nas ginastas possuem vértices (coordenação e agilidade), embora em proporções diferentes. As fórmulas repetidas nos dois grupos são presilha>espirais (ginastas 48% e não ginastas 44%) e espirais>presilha (ginastas 26% e não ginastas 16%). Observando que, embora em meninas sem ginasta, essas fórmulas também apareçam, nesse grupo elas tendem a diversificar claramente. CONCLUSÕES: É possível definir que espirais, que se correlacionam com coordenação e agilidade, são traços de extrema importância na prática da ginasta e que, juntamente com um delta 10 (médio) de 14 e uma contagem alta de linhas nos dedos da mão esquerda, como elementos essenciais no perfil dermatoglyphic na ginástica

Bidirectional causal control in the dynamics of handstand balance.

The aim of this study was to identify motor control solutions associated with the ability to maintain handstand balance. Using a novel approach, we investigated the dynamical interactions between centre of pressure (CoP) and centre of mass (CoM) motion. A gymnastics cohort was divided into a 'less skilled' group, who held handstands for 4-6 s, and a 'more skilled' group, who held handstands in excess of 10 s. CoP-CoM causality was investigated in anterior-posterior (AP) and medio-lateral (ML) directions, in addition to time-space, time-frequency and Hurst Exponent (H) analyses. Lower AP CoP to CoM causal drive and lower H values (> 0.6) indicated the more skilled gymnasts were less reliant on CoP mechanics to drive CoM motion. More skilled performance demonstrated greater adaptability through use of reactive, as opposed to anticipatory, control strategies. Skilled performers additionally exploited mechanical advantages in ML (e.g. a wider base of support), compared to the less skilled athletes. A multiple regression analysis revealed H and frequency domain measures to be better predictors of handstand balance duration than time-space domain measures. The study findings highlight the advantage of an adaptable motor control system with a directional profile, and provide new insight into the clear, measurable footprint of CoP on the dynamics of CoM.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructed Female Athletes Exhibit Relative Muscle Dysfunction After Return to Sport.

We sought to examine the relationship between upper-leg compartmental lean mass, muscle-specific strength, and explosive strength following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Twleve adolescent female athletes with prior anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were individually-matched by age (16.4±0.9 vs. 16.4±1.0 yrs.), body mass index (23.2±2.1 vs. 23.2±2.7 kg/m2), and sport to 12 female athlete controls. One total-body and 2 lateral-leg dual X-ray absorptiometry scans measured total/segmental body composition. Isokinetic dynamometry measured knee extensor/flexor peak torque. Squat jumps on force platforms measured bilateral peak vertical ground reaction force. Paired t-tests assessed lean mass, peak torque, and force between previously-injured athletes' legs and between previously-injured and control athletes' legs. Previously-injured athletes' involved vs. non-involved leg demonstrated lower total (7.13±0.75 vs. 7.43±0.99 kg; p<0.01) and anterior (1.49±0.27 vs. 1.61±0.23 kg; p<0.01) and posterior (1.90±0.19 vs. 2.02±0.21 kg; p=0.04) upper-leg lean mass. Involved leg peak torque (1.36±0.31; 1.06±0.27; 0.97±0.19 Nm/kg) was lower vs. non-involved leg (1.71±0.36; 1.24±0.33; 1.04±0.15 Nm/kg; p<0.01-0.02) for extension at 60 and 120°/sec and flexion at 60°/sec and vs. controls' 'matched' leg (1.77±0.40 Nm/kg; p=0.01) for extension at 60°/sec. Involved leg force (296±45N) was lower vs. non-involved leg (375±55N; p<0.01) and vs. controls' 'matched' leg (372±88N; p=0.02). One-year post-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, adolescent female athletes' involved leg demonstrated relative muscle dysfunction.