Dehydration, Wellness, and Training Demands of Professional Soccer Players during Preseason.

Purpose: Our study is aimed at analyzing the relationships between water loss and a professional soccer team's internal and external training load throughout the first three months of a season, covering all the preseason and the first two months of the competitive season. Methods: This study followed an observational analytic design. Twenty-seven athletes (age: 25.5 ± 4.1 years, height: 180.7 ± 8.2 cm, and body mass: 78.4 ± 8.7 kg) were included in the study, conducted over the first three months of the season. Players were weighed at the beginning and end of all training sessions to estimate fluid losses. They were asked to complete a wellness questionnaire and indicate the color of the first urine of the day upon their arrival at the practice session. Additionally, all sessions were monitored for locomotor demands. Results: We found a positive correlation between urine color and sprint distance (r = 0.46, p = 0.01) and a positive correlation between dehydration and rating of perceived exertion (r = 0.44, p = 0.015), whereas a negative correlation between dehydration and number of acceleration (r = -0.39, p = 0.034). Conclusions: Dehydration increased perceived physical exertion. Regularly monitoring training load and changes in body mass, as well as raising awareness about hydration, can contribute to cognitive and physical performance.

Associations between Physical Status and Training Load in Women Soccer Players.

This study aimed to analyze the variations of fitness status, as well as test the relationships between accumulated training load and fitness changes in women soccer players. This study followed an observational analytic cohort design. Observations were conducted over 23 consecutive weeks (from the preseason to the midseason). Twenty-two women soccer players from the same first Portuguese league team (22.7 ± 5.21 years old) took part in the study. The fitness assessment included anthropometry, hip adductor and abductor strength, vertical jump, change of direction, linear speed, repeated sprint ability, and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test. The training load was monitored daily using session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE). A one-way repeated ANOVA revealed no significant differences for any of the variables analyzed across the three moments of fitness assessments (p > 0.05). The t-test also revealed no differences in the training load across the moments of the season (t = 1.216; p = 0.235). No significant correlations were found between fitness levels and accumulated training load (range: r = 0.023 to -0.447; p > 0.05). This study revealed no differences in the fitness status during the analyzed season, and the fitness status had no significant relationship with accumulated training load.

Variations of Trail Runner's Fitness Measures across a Season and Relationships with Workload.

Trail running involves off-road running over different surfaces of positive and negative unevenness. Given these particularities and the associated physical demands, it is essential to understand this relationship and how fitness levels influence performance. This study aimed to analyze fitness level variations during different times of the season and establish a relationship between changes in fitness levels and accumulated load. Twenty-five trail running athletes (age: 36.23 ± 8.30 years) were monitored over 52 weeks. Three periods of assessment were implemented, while load between those periods was calculated. Athletes were monitored daily by global positioning systems. The collected data included distance covered, duration, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE), which were used to obtain session-RPE. Additionally, maximal aerobic speed, vertical jump, and dynamic balance were tested periodically. Moderate inverse correlations were found between assessment 1 and 2 for total sRPE and vertical jump: countermovement jump (VJ: CMJ) (r = -0.349), and Y balance test: left posterolateral (YBT: LPL) (r = -0.494). Similar correlations were found between assessment 2 and 3 for total sRPE and VJ: CMJ (r = -0.397), and vertical jump: drop jump (VJ: DJ) (r = -0.395). The results suggest that trail running coaches should monitor and assess dose-response relationships and possible anterior asymmetries of dynamic balance performance.

Exploring the Determinants of Repeated-Sprint Ability in Adult Women Soccer Players.

This study aimed to explore the main determinants of repeated-sprint ability (RSA) in women soccer players considering aerobic capacity, sprinting performance, change-of-direction, vertical height jump, and hip adductor/abductor isometric strength. Twenty-two women soccer players from the same team participating in the first Portuguese league were observed. Fitness assessments were performed three times during a 22-week cohort period. The following assessments were made: (i) hip abductor and adductor strength, (ii) squat and countermovement jump (height), (iii) change-of-direction test, (iv) linear sprinting at 10- and 30-m, (v) RSA test, and (vi) Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1. Positive moderate correlations were found between peak minimum RSA and adductor and abductor strength (r = 0.51, p < 0.02 and r = 0.54, p < 0.01, respectively). Positive moderate correlations were also found between peak maximum RSA and adductor and abductor strength (r = 0.55, p < 0.02 and r = 0.46, p < 0.01, respectively). Lastly, a moderate negative correlation was found between fatigue index in RSA and YYIR1 test performance (r = -0.62, p < 0.004). In conclusion, abductor and adductor isometric strength-based coadjutant training programs, together with a high degree of aerobic endurance, may be suitable for inducing RSA in female soccer players.

Functional Training in Portuguese Firefighters: Impact of Functional Training With or Without Personal Protective Equipment.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of specific functional training (FT) with and without personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), on firefighters (FFs) physical fitness condition. METHODS: Sixty FFs run a 24 weeks intervention, divided into three groups (EG1 training with PPE+SCBA; EG2 training with regular equipment, and Control Group). FFs anthropometric and physical fitness (PF) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS: Significant differences were found between the training groups and control group. Both training groups interventions were effective in improving PF and lean mass. However, EG1 presented a higher percentage of improvement. CONCLUSION: This 24-week FT intervention improved participants' muscle strength, endurance, and power, and it led to increases in lean body mass. Regularly FT with PPE+SCBA helps FFs maintain a healthy general physical condition and develop optimum fitness levels related to firefighting specific tasks, specially torso muscular endurance.

Pressure biofeedback unit to assess and train lumbopelvic stability in supine individuals with chronic low back pain.

[Purpose] To determine if pressure biofeedback unit readings are related to abdominal muscle activation and centre of pressure displacement as well as to test the effects of using it as a biofeedback tool to control lumbopelvic motion. [Participants and Methods] Eighteen volunteers with chronic nonspecific low back pain (21.28 ± 1.41 years old) who performed an active straight leg raising (dynamic postural challenge) with and without pressure biofeedback. Changes in the pressure biofeedback unit and on centre of pressure displacement were assessed, as well as bilateral electromyographic abdominal muscle activity. Participants were not allowed to use a Valsalva manoeuvre. [Results] Pressure variation was not significantly correlated with abdominal muscle activity or with mediolateral centre of pressure displacement. When used as a biofeedback instrument, there was a significant increase in almost all abdominal muscles activity as well as a significant decrease in pressure variation and in mediolateral centre of pressure displacement while performing an active straight leg raising with a normal breathing pattern. [Conclusion] Despite not being an indicator of abdominal muscle activity or mediolateral load transfer in the supine position, the pressure biofeedback unit could have great relevance when used in the clinic for biofeedback purposes in individuals with low back pain.

Muscle strength training program in nonagenarians - a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The study aims to improve the functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) of nonagenarian women by implementing an individualized muscle strength training program in a geriatric residential care home. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Twenty-six elderly women were randomized into a control group (CG) and an intervention group (SG). The SG carried out a strength program with TheraBands® for 12 weeks, with two weekly sessions. The assessment tools that we used pre- and post-intervention were the Barthel index of daily living activities, the five times sit-to-stand test (FTSTS) and timed up and go (TUG) test with wiva® sensors. RESULTS: The SG maintained the Barthel index scores for activities of daily living and improved in the FTSTS; the CG showed a significant decrease on both tests. The dynamic balance test showed significant differences between groups for the variables sit to stand, peak angular velocity, anterior-posterior range, turning, stand to sit, total time, and speed. CONCLUSIONS: Individualized muscle strength training programs may help promote healthy lifestyles in such populations by maintaining autonomy, improving function and balance.

Muscle strength training program in nonagenarians - a randomized controlled trial

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES: The study aims to improve the functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) of nonagenarian women by implementing an individualized muscle strength training program in a geriatric residential care home. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial METHODS: Twenty-six elderly women were randomized into a control group (CG) and an intervention group (SG). The SG carried out a strength program with TheraBands® for 12 weeks, with two weekly sessions. The assessment tools that we used pre- and post-intervention were the Barthel index of daily living activities, the five times sit-to-stand test (FTSTS) and timed up and go (TUG) test with wiva® sensors. RESULTS: The SG maintained the Barthel index scores for activities of daily living and improved in the FTSTS; the CG showed a significant decrease on both tests. The dynamic balance test showed significant differences between groups for the variables sit to stand, peak angular velocity, anterior-posterior range, turning, stand to sit, total time, and speed. CONCLUSIONS: Individualized muscle strength training programs may help promote healthy lifestyles in such populations by maintaining autonomy, improving function and balance.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: O objetivo do estudo é melhorar a capacidade funcional e a qualidade de vida (QV) de nonagenários por meio da implementação de um programa de treinamento aeróbico e de força individualizado em um centro geriátrico residencial. DESENHO DO ESTUDO: Estudo controlado randomizado. METODOLOGIA: Vinte e seis mulheres idosas foram randomizadas em grupo controle (CG) e grupo intervenção (SG). O SG realizou um programa de força com 12 semanas de duração de duas sessões semanais. As ferramentas de avaliação usadas antes e após a intervenção foram o Índice de Barthel das atividades da vida diária, o teste Five-to-Stand (FTSTS) e o Timed Up and Go (TUG) com sensores Wiva®. RESULTADOS: O SG manteve as pontuações no Índice de Barthel e melhora no FTSTS; o GC apresentou redução significativa nos dois testes. O teste de equilíbrio dinâmico mostrou diferenças significativas entre os grupos para as variáveis: Sit to Stand, pico da velocidade angular, amplitude anteroposterior, giro, posição sentada, tempo total e velocidade. CONCLUSÕES: Os programas de intervenção de força muscular podem ajudar a promover estilos de vida saudáveis nesta população para a manutenção da autonomia, a melhora da função e o equilíbrio.

Selection of talents in handball: anthropometric and performance analysis / Seleção de talentos em handebol: análise antropométrica e de desempenho / Selección de talentos en el balonmano: análisis antropométrico y de rendimiento

ABSTRACT Introduction: Anthropometric and physical performance parameters that determine competitive levels in handball need to be carefully studied to identify which of them can bring the optimal contribution when the talents for this sport are selected. Objective: To identify which anthropometric and physical performance variables evaluated in the basic categories (infantile, under-15 and cadet, under-17) have the greatest influence on professional levels attained by male and female handball players throughout their sports careers. Method: A total of 145 handball players (75 males and 70 females) participated in the study. Participants were initially evaluated during the season 1998-99 and their performance levels were supervised until March 2013. The resulting data were classified according to the performance level (regional n = 109; national n = 36), gender, and category (infantile, cadet). Results: The MANCOVA analysis indicated that the player's maturation stage is one of the main parameters to be accounted for when selecting the variables that should configure a talent detection model for handball, which is also conditioned by sex. Anthropometric variables are highly influential in the case of male players, while physical performance variables (squat jump, counter movement jump, counter movement jump with arm, 10x5m shuttle run, 20 m shuttle run, and VO2 max) have a similar effect in males and females. Conclusion: The study of changes occurring in anthropometric and physical performance variables may yield useful information to detect talents in handball, and maturation is a key factor to choose the most appropriate variables.

RESUMO Introdução: Os parâmetros antropométricos e de desempenho físico que determinam o nível competitivo no handebol devem ser submetidos a um estudo mais aprofundado para identificar quais deles podem contribuir de forma otimizada ao serem selecionados os talentos para esse esporte. Objetivo: Identificar quais variáveis antropométricas e de desempenho físico avaliadas nas categorias de base (infantil, sub-15 e cadete, sub-17) têm a maior influência sobre os níveis profissionais atingidos por jogadores de handebol do sexo masculino e feminino ao longo de sua carreira esportiva. Método: Um total de 145 jogadores de handebol (75 homens e 70 mulheres) participou do estudo. Os participantes foram inicialmente avaliados durante a temporada de 1998-99 e os níveis de desempenho foram supervisionados até março de 2013. Os dados resultantes foram classificados pelo nível de desempenho (regional n = 109; nacional n = 36), por sexo e por categoria (infantil, cadete). Resultados: A análise MANCOVA indicou que o estágio de maturação do jogador é um dos principais parâmetros a serem considerados ao escolher quais variáveis devem configurar o modelo de detecção de talento para o handebol, que também é condicionado por sexo. As variáveis antropométricas influenciam muito os atletas do sexo masculino, enquanto as variáveis de desempenho físico (salto agachado (squat jump), salto com contramovimento (counter movement jump), salto com contramovimento com braço (counter movement jump with arm), corrida vaivém (shuttle run) 10 x 5 m, corrida vaivém 20 m e VO2 máx) têm efeito semelhante em ambos os sexos. Conclusão: O estudo das mudanças que ocorrem em variáveis de desempenho antropométricas e físicas podem gerar informações úteis para identificar talentos para o handebol, e a maturação é um fator chave na escolha das variáveis mais adequadas.

RESUMEN Introducción: Los parámetros antropométricos y de rendimiento físico que determinan el nivel competitivo en el balonmano deben ser sometidos a un estudio más profundo con el fin de identificar cuáles de ellos pueden contribuir de forma óptima para la selección de talentos para ese deporte. Objetivo: Identificar qué variables antropométricas y de rendimiento físico evaluadas en las categorías base (infantil, sub-15 y cadete, sub-17) tienen mayor influencia sobre los niveles profesionales alcanzados por los jugadores y las jugadoras de balonmano a lo largo de su carrera deportiva. Método: Un total de 145 jugadores de balonmano (75 hombres y 70 mujeres) participaron en el estudio. Los participantes fueron evaluados inicialmente durante la temporada 1998-99 y los niveles de rendimiento fueron supervisados hasta marzo de 2013. Los datos fueron clasificados según el nivel de rendimiento (regional n = 109; nacional n = 36), el sexo y la categoría (infantil, cadete). Resultados: El análisis MANCOVA indicó que la etapa de maduración del jugador es uno de los principales parámetros a tener en cuenta al seleccionar qué variables deben componer el modelo identificador del talento en balonmano, que también está condicionada por el sexo. Las variables antropométricas son las que mayor influencia presentan en los deportistas de sexo masculino, mientras que las variables de rendimiento físico (sentadilla con salto (squat jump), salto en contramovimiento (counter movement jump), salto en contramovimiento con brazos (counter movement jump with arm), 10 x 5 m shuttle run, 20 m shuttle run y VO2 máx) tienen una influencia similar en ambos sexos. Conclusión: El estudio de los cambios que se producen en las variables antropométricas y de rendimiento físico puede generar informaciones útiles para la identificación de talentos en el balonmano, y la maduración es un factor clave a la hora de escoger las variables más adecuadas.

Effects of two programmes of combined Land-Based and Water-Based exercise on the cognitive function and fitness levels of healthy older adults

Abstract Very little is known about the influence training programmes that combine land-based and water-based exercises might have on the cognitive function of healthy older people. Aim to analyze the combined effect of two physical exercise programs (water-based and land-based) on fitness level and cognitive function. Method 15 senior citizens carried out a water and land-based exercise program (EF group), while 22 senior citizens followed the same program with the addition of cognitive training performed in water (EC group). The effects of both programs were assessed by means of the Symbol Digit Modalities, the Two-minute step and the Timed-up-and-go tests. Results The data obtained showed that both programs had significant effects on the participants' fitness level and cognitive function, although only those in the EC group showed a significantly higher improvement. Conclusion The combination of water-based and land-based exercise may lead to improvements in cognitive functions and fitness levels in healthy older adults. The inclusion of cognitive exercises performed in water seems to maximise these effects.(AU)

Energy cost and motivation in a population of young swimmers / Custo energético e motivação em uma população de jovens nadadores / Costo energético y motivación en una población de jóvenes nadadores

Objective: To examine the relationship between the energy cost implied in competition in different swimming events and its relationship with motivation to practice this sport. Methods: A total of 389 swimmers (192 boys and 197 girls), aged 8-22 years, who competed in events with different energy demands responded to the Spanish versions of the Participation Motivation Inventory. Results: A multivariate analysis showed that the energy cost of the preferential event had a significant influence on the swimmer motivation (Wilk's λ=0.96, F7,388=6.29, P<0.005). A later univariate analysis showed that the motivation of swimmers in predominantly aerobic modalities, as compared to those in anaerobic ones, was significantly influenced by four motivational components: "Health/Fitness", "Fun/Friendship", "Competition/Skills" and "Significant Others". The motivational factors also varied according to gender and stage of sport development of the swimmers. Conclusion: The results of this study show signs that the motivational factors related to the practice of competitive swimming in young athletes behaves differently depending on the energy cost of the test carried out. .

Objetivo: Analisar a relação entre o custo energético implícito na competição em diferentes eventos de natação e sua relação com a motivação para a prática desse esporte. Métodos: Um total de 389 nadadores (192 meninos e 197 meninas), com idades entre 8 e 22 anos, que competiram em eventos com diferentes demandas de energia respondeu às versões em espanhol do Inventário de Motivação para a Participação. Resultados: A análise multivariada demonstrou que o custo energético do evento preferido teve influência significante sobre a motivação dos nadadores (Î" de Wilkis = 0,96, F7.388 = 6,29, P < 0,005). Uma análise univariada posterior mostrou que a motivação dos nadadores nas modalidades predominantemente aeróbias, em comparação com as anaeróbias, foi significativamente influenciada por quatro componentes motivacionais: "Saúde/Boa forma física", "Diversão/Amizade", "Competição/Habilidades" e "Pessoas significantes". Os fatores motivacionais também variaram de acordo com o sexo e o estágio de desenvolvimento desportivo dos nadadores. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo mostram sinais de que os fatores motivacionais relacionados com a prática da natação competitiva em jovens atletas comportam-se de forma diferente, dependendo do custo energético do teste realizado. .

Objetivo: Examinar el relacionamiento entre el costo energético implicado en la competición en diferentes eventos de natación y su relacionamiento con la motivación para la práctica de este deporte. Métodos: Un total de 389 nadadores (192 masculinos y 197 femeninos), con edad entre 8-22 años, que competían en eventos con diferentes demandas de energía respondieron a las versiones en Español del Inventario de Motivación para la Práctica. Resultados: Un análisis multivariado mostró que el costo energético del evento preferencial tuvo una influencia significativa en la motivación de los nadadores (WilkÂ's Î"=0,96, F7.388=6,29, P<0,005). Un análisis univariado posterior mostró que la motivación de los nadadores en modalidades predominantemente aeróbicas, comparada con aquellas anaeróbicas, fue significativamente influenciada por cuatro componentes motivacionales: "Salud/Aptitud", "Diversión/Amistad", "Competición/Habilidades", y "Otros Significativos". Los factores motivacionales también variaron de acuerdo al género y nivel de desarrollo deportivo de los nadadores. Conclusión: Los resultados en este estudio muestran señales del hecho de que los factores motivacionales en la práctica de natación competitiva en jóvenes atletas se comporta de formas diferentes, dependiendo del costo energético del test realizado. .