Practices and perceptions of strength and conditioning training in female golf: A cross-sectional survey study of high-level amateur players.

This study aims to ascertain an in-depth understanding of current practices and perceptions of S&C training in high-level amateur female golfers. A cross-sectional, explorative survey study was constructed which asked questions relating to four key areas: i) general participant information, ii) current strength and conditioning (S&C) practices, iii) the perceived influence of S&C training on golf performance, and iv) knowledge and awareness of S&C. Results showed that the majority of female players had participated in some form of S&C training in the past, with the majority believing that clubhead speed and carry distance were the primary golfing metrics which could be positively impacted. More specifically, 91-97% of the players "Strongly agreed" or "Agreed" that the key physical characteristics for golf were strength and power for the lower and upper body, and flexibility. Interestingly, 58% of the players believed that S&C training should mimic the movement of the golf swing, which based off current evidence, is not how drive metrics and ultimately shots gained, can be maximised. This survey study provides useful information relating to the practices and perceptions of S&C training in high-level female amateur players and areas where education may be able to further advance player understanding of physical preparation.

Tendencias actuales en la preparación física del futbolista: una revisión documental

La preparación física en el fútbol es crucial para el rendimiento físico, por lo que es necesario estar al tanto de las últimas tendencias sobre los enfoques utilizados a fin de identificar las mejores prácticas y las áreas que requieren perfeccionarse. El objetivo de la investigación consistió en desarrollar una revisión exhaustiva de las tendencias actuales en la preparación física del futbolista profesional. Esta investigación fue de tipo teórica, se aplicó la técnica de revisión documental y el instrumento matriz de registro. Los pasos que se siguieron fueron la búsqueda y selección de artículos relevantes de preparación física, extracción de información, validación de fuentes, organización de hallazgos, identificación de patrones y síntesis narrativa. La investigación reveló las tendencias en la preparación física de los futbolistas y resaltó la importancia de la personalización, la planificación estratégica, el enfoque integral del entrenamiento y la alimentación adecuada. El estudio generó nuevas perspectivas en el campo de la preparación física, permitió una comprensión más completa y actualizada de las tendencias y prácticas en este ámbito, lo que sirve como base para futuras investigaciones y cubre brechas de conocimiento en el campo de la preparación física del futbolista profesional.

A preparação física no futebol é crucial para o desempenho físico, por isso é necessário estar atento às últimas tendências nas abordagens utilizadas para identificar as melhores práticas e áreas que necessitam de melhorias. O objetivo da pesquisa foi desenvolver uma revisão exaustiva das tendências atuais na preparação física de jogadores de futebol profissionais. Esta pesquisa teve caráter teórico, foram aplicadas a técnica de revisão documental e o instrumento matriz de registro. As etapas seguidas foram a busca e seleção de artigos relevantes sobre preparação física, extração de informações, validação de fontes, organização de achados, identificação de padrões e síntese narrativa. A investigação revelou tendências na preparação física dos jogadores de futebol e destacou a importância da personalização, do planeamento estratégico, de uma abordagem abrangente ao treino e de uma alimentação adequada. jogador profissional.

Physical preparation in soccer is crucial for physical performance, so it is necessary to be aware of the latest trends in the approaches used in order to identify best practices and areas that require improvement. The objective of the research was to develop an exhaustive review of current trends in the physical preparation of professional soccer player. This research was theoretical, the documentary review technique and the registration matrix instrument were applied. The steps followed were the search and selection of relevant articles on physical preparation, information extraction, validation of sources, organization of findings, identification of patterns and narrative synthesis. The research revealed trends in the physical preparation of foot players and highlighted the importance of personalization, strategic planning, a comprehensive approach to training and proper nutrition. The study generated new perspectives in the field of physical preparation, allowed a more complete and updated understanding of the trends and practices in this area, which serves as a basis for future research and covers knowledge gaps, in the field of physical preparation of the professional soccer player.

Perception of military specialists on physical preparation in the armed forces / Percepción de los especialistas militares sobre la preparación física en las fuerzas armadas

This work analyzes the perception of military specialists in Physical Education on how physical preparation is implemented and could be optimized in the Armed Forces. It is a quantitative, descriptive study (N = 227) having created an ad hoc questionnaire to collect these perceptions. The results indicate that the facilitators believe that: i. The current physical preparation and its evaluation bear little relation to the possible operational contexts; ii. Health and military instruction are perceived as the main training objectives; iii. The traditional training methodology does not seem to be the most suitable to achieve the operational objectives of the Units; iv. The most relevant physical qualities are swimming skill, strength, and endurance; v. The training contents during the mesocycle are still based mainly on running and calisthenics, performed at a moderate intensity; vi. Specific preparation before, during and after Operations should be increased. (AU)

Este trabajo analiza la percepción de diplomados militares en Educación Física sobre cómo se implementa y podría optimizarse la preparación física en las Fuerzas Armadas. Es un estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo (N = 227) habiéndose creado un cuestionario ad hoc para recoger estas percepciones. Los resultados señalan que los diplomados opinan que: i. La preparación física actual y su evaluación tienen poca relación con los posibles contextos operativos; ii. La salud y la instrucción se perciben como los principales objetivos formativos; iii. La metodología tradicional del entrenamiento no parece ser la más idónea para conseguir los objetivos operativos de las Unidades; iv. Las cualidades físicas consideradas más relevantes son competencia en agua, fuerza y resistencia; v. Los contenidos de entrenamiento durante el mesociclo se siguen basando fundamentalmente en la carrera y la calistenia, realizados a una intensidad moderada; vi. Debe incrementarse la preparación específica antes, durante y después de las Operaciones. (AU)

From The Ground Up: Expert Perceptions of Lower Limb Activity Monitoring in Tennis.

Understanding on-court movement in tennis allows for enhanced preparation strategies to improve player readiness and performance. Here, we explore expert physical preparation coaches' perceptions of elite training strategies for preparation and performance in tennis, with special reference to lower limb activity. Thirteen world renowned tennis strength and conditioning coaches were interviewed in a semi-structured method that explored four key topic areas of physical preparation for tennis: i) the physical demands; ii) load monitoring practice; iii) the direction of ground reaction forces application during match-play; and iv) the application of strength and conditioning for tennis. Three higher-order themes emerged from these discussions: i) off-court training for tennis should be specific to the demands of the sport, ii) the mechanical understanding of tennis lags our physiological approach, and iii) our understanding of the lower limb's contribution to tennis performance is limited. These findings provide valuable insights into the importance of improving our knowledge relevant to the mechanical demands of tennis movement, whilst highlighting important practical considerations from leading tennis conditioning experts.

Load and performance monitoring in wheelchair court sports: A narrative review of the use of technology and practical recommendations.

Quantifying measures of physical loading has been an essential part of performance monitoring within elite able-bodied sport, facilitated through advancing innovative technology. In wheelchair court sports (WCS) the inter-individual variability of physical impairments in the athletes increases the necessity for accurate load and performance measurements, while at the same time standard load monitoring methods (e.g. heart-rate) often fail in this group and dedicated WCS performance measurement methods are scarce. The objective of this review was to provide practitioners and researchers with an overview and recommendations to underpin the selection of suitable technologies for a variety of load and performance monitoring purposes specific to WCS. This review explored the different technologies that have been used for load and performance monitoring in WCS. During structured field testing, magnetic switch-based devices, optical encoders and laser systems have all been used to monitor linear aspects of performance. However, movement in WCS is multidirectional, hence accelerations, decelerations and rotational performance and their impact on physiological responses and determination of skill level, is also of interest. Subsequently both for structured field testing as well as match-play and training, inertial measurement units mounted on wheels and frame have emerged as an accurate and practical option for quantifying linear and non-linear movements. In conclusion, each method has its place in load and performance measurement, yet inertial sensors seem most versatile and accurate. However, to add context to load and performance metrics, position-based acquisition devices such as automated image-based processing or local positioning systems are required.Highlights Objective measures of wheelchair mobility performance are paramount in wheelchair court sport support, since they enable quantification of workload across athletes of all classifications and in structured field testing, training and match play settings.Given the variety of methods for load and performance monitoring in wheelchair court sports, this review: identified and examined the technology available; provides meaningful insights and decision guidelines; describes applicability for different goals; and proposes practical recommendations for researchers and sports professionals.Wheelchair mounted inertial sensors are most reliable and versatile for measuring wheelchair mobility performance and estimates of workload, yet a combination with local position measurement via indoor tracking or image-based processing could be useful to add context.For wheelchair athletes bound to a wheelchair for daily use, workload monitoring on a regular basis, both on- and off-court, is crucial to avoid overuse injuries. Alternatively, in athletes with lower severity impairments often lack frequent exposure to optimal and progressive loading, reducing the likelihood of positive physiological adaptations.

Preparación física para mujeres militares de la Fuerza Naval en período de poslactancia / Preparação física das mulheres militares da Força Naval no período pós-lactação / Physical preparation for military women of the Naval Force in post-lactation period

RESUMEN La preparación físico-militar incluye numerosos supuestos que regulan el apresto operacional del personal militar, establecen los estándares básicos para toda la vida activa. Dentro de las acciones de trabajo para mejorar o mantener la condición física, se deben tener presente las condiciones del militar, donde el entrenamiento del período poslactancia de las mujeres deben condicionarse a sus necesidades biológicas. En tal sentido, se planteó como propósito de la investigación implementar un plan de entrenamiento para mejorar la condición física de mujeres militares de la Fuerza Naval para el periodo de poslactancia. Bajo un muestreo intencional, se intervienen a siete mujeres (31-36 años) de la Fuerza Naval ecuatoriana, en proceso de lactancia, ellas son insertadas a un plan de ejercicios especializados para acondicionarlas físicamente. De aquí se genera un estudio en dos momentos de la preparación de su resistencia aeróbica, velocidad y potencia local muscular. Todas las pruebas de valoración presentaron un menor rendimiento medio en la primera valoración. Desde este resultado, se superan sus indicadores como parte del postest, test de velocidad: 17:56s-17:00s (p=0.018), test de Cooper: 16:38min-16:12min (p=0.712), Test de Abdominales: ≈36rep-≈41rep (p=0.000) y test de flexiones de codo: 25rep-30rep (p=0.000). Durante el proceso de intervención, no se presentaron lesiones ni otras dificultades que provoquen abandono del programa. El plan de intervención propuesto mejoró y acondicionó la preparación física en las mujeres militares de la Fuerza Naval ecuatoriana en estado de poslactancia; así mejoró significativamente las capacidades de velocidad y fuerza muscular local, lo cual acondicionó la capacidad de resistencia aeróbica.

RESUMO A preparação físico-militar inclui numerosos pressupostos que regulam a prontidão operacional do pessoal militar, estabelecem as normas básicas para toda a vida ativa. No âmbito das ações de trabalho para melhorar ou manter a condição física, devem ser tidas em conta as condições dos militares, onde a formação das mulheres no período pós-lactação deve ser condicionada às suas necessidades biológicas. Neste sentido, o objectivo da investigação era implementar um plano de formação para melhorar a condição física das mulheres militares na Força Naval para o período de pós-parto. Sob uma amostragem propositada, sete mulheres (31-36 anos) da Força Naval equatoriana, no processo de amamentação, foram envolvidas num plano de exercício especializado para as condicionar fisicamente. A partir disto, é gerado um estudo em dois momentos da preparação da sua resistência aeróbica, velocidade e potência muscular local. Todos os testes de avaliação mostraram um desempenho médio inferior na primeira avaliação. A partir deste resultado, os seus indicadores são excedidos como parte do teste de velocidade: 17:56s-17:00s (p=0,018), teste de Cooper: 16:38min-16:12min (p=0,712), teste abdominal: ≈36rep-≈41rep (p=0,000) e teste de flexão do cotovelo: 25rep-30rep (p=0,000). Durante o processo de intervenção, não houve feridos ou outras dificuldades que levassem ao abandono do programa. O plano de intervenção proposto melhorou e condicionou a preparação física das mulheres militares pós-lactação da Força Naval equatoriana; melhorou significativamente as capacidades de velocidade e força muscular local, o que condicionou a capacidade de resistência aeróbica.

ABSTRACT Physical-military preparation includes numerous assumptions that regulate the operational readiness of military personnel, establish the basic standards for all active life. Within the work actions to improve or maintain physical condition, the conditions of the military must be taken into account, where the training of the post- lactation period of women must be conditioned to their biological needs. In this sense, the purpose of the research was to implement a training plan to improve the physical condition of military women of the naval force for the post -lactation period. Under an intentional sampling, seven women (31-36 years old) of the Ecuadorian naval force, in the process of breastfeeding, are inserted into a specialized exercise plan to condition them physically. From here, a study is generated in two moments of the preparation of their aerobic endurance, speed and local muscle power. All the assessment tests presented a lower mean performance in the first assessment. From this result, their indicators are exceeded as part of the post -test, Speed Test: 17:56-17:00 (p=0.018), Cooper Test: 16:38-16:12 (p=0.712), Abdominal Test:≈ 36rep-≈ 41rep (p=0.000) and elbow flexion test: 25rep-30rep (p=0.000). During the intervention process, there were no injuries or other difficulties that caused abandonment of the program. The proposed intervention plan improved and conditioned the physical training of military women of the Ecuadorian naval force in a post -lactation state; thus, it significantly improved speed capabilities and local muscle strength, which conditioned aerobic endurance capacity.

Inorganic Reinforced Poly(ionic liquid) Microcapsules: Confined Cooling-Assisted Phase Separation Self-Assembly and Enhanced Electroresponsive Properties.

A simple preparation of inorganic reinforced poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) microcapsules by combining dispersion polymerization and confined cooling-assisted phase separation self-assembly is reported. Silane coupling agent-modified PIL microbeads are first prepared by dispersion polymerization. Then, the microbeads are dissolved in a theta solvent composed of good solvent and non-solvent to form hollow SiOx microcapsules at a relatively high temperature. Finally, the solution is cooled to induce the nucleation and growth of dissolved PIL chains on the inner and outer surface of hollow SiOx microcapsules to form inorganic reinforced microcapsules with asymmetric PIL/SiOx /PIL sandwich-like shell. The morphology of microcapsules can be controlled by adjusting PIL concentration and cooling rate. The inorganic reinforced microcapsules show enhanced suspended stability and electroresponsive characteristic when used as the dispersed phase of smart suspensions.

The Effect of a Pace Training Session on Internal Load and Neuromuscular Parameters in Taekwondo Athletes.

This study aimed to verify the effect of a pace training session at an intensity corresponding to the kick frequency at the anaerobic threshold (KFAT) on the internal load response and motor response performance of the roundhouse kick. Twelve black belt taekwondo athletes underwent two evaluation sessions: (1) performed the progressive specific test for taekwondo (PSTT) to identify the heart rate deflection point (HRDP) and the KFAT; (2) performed three 2-min rounds with a 1-min interval. Heart rate (HR) throughout each round and motor response performance before and after sessions were measured. The Student's T-test or Wilcoxon test was used, and p < 0.05 was adopted. During round 1, a lower internal load was observed (167 ± 10 bpm) compared with HRDP (179 ± 8 bpm; p = 0.035). During rounds 2 (178 ± 10 bpm; p = 0.745) and 3 (179 ± 8 bpm; p = 1), no differences were observed for an internal load and HRDP. Motor response performance showed no differences. However, a potentiation in the post countermovement jump test compared with rounds 1 (p = 0.012) and 2 (p = 0.028) was observed. The internal load (HR) observed at the intensity corresponding to KFAT can be considered in the prescription of training when the aim is to control the internal load responses without inducing fatigue.

Preparation of Poly(Ionic Liquid) Microbeads via Cooling-Assisted Phase Separation Method.

A simple and large-scale non-chemical preparation of uniform poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) microbeads via a cooling-assisted phase separation (CAPS) method is reported. For this method, PIL bulk is dissolved to form a saturated solution in a mixed solvent composed of good solvent and non-solvent at a relatively high temperature. Then, the uniform PIL microbeads are prepared by cooling the solution to room temperature or a lower temperature in the absence of stabilizer. The size of microbeads can be controlled by adjusting the preparation parameters, including PIL concentration, cooling rate, and agitation state. The scale of preparation can be up to 10 g, and the yield of PIL microbeads is more than 70% or 88% when the solution is cooled to room temperature or 0 °C, respectively. The formation mechanism of PIL microbeads is discussed by tracing the nucleation and growth process by the transmittance of light of the solution during cooling. The application of this CAPS method to other polymer microbeads preparation is finally discussed by choosing different good solvent and non-solvent.

Season Suspension and Summer Extension: Unique Opportunity for Professional Team-Sport Athletes and Support Staff During and Following the COVID-19 Crisis.

Given the emergence of the COVID-19 outbreak, the official declaration of a global pandemic by the World Health Organization, and its consequential disruptions on the professional team sports landscape, it is the main objective of this brief opinion to help ensure that professional team-sport athletes and support staff remain aware as a society of some of the potential pitfalls - illustrated via negative but plausible detrimental scenarios. Finally, new ideas are introduced and evidence-based hypotheses are presented on the following five themes: periodization, exploration, virtual (at-home) training, player monitoring, and continued education, including return-to-competition preparation strategies following these exceptional times of uncharted territory.

Diagnóstico para perfeccionar la fuerza especial en agua de polo acuático en Pinar del Río / Diagnóstico para aperfeiçoar a força especial na água em polistas de Pinar del Río / Diagnosis to perfect the special strength in water of Pinar del Río water polo players

Resumen El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo caracterizar la situación actual de los atletas del equipo escolar masculino de polo acuático de la EIDE (Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva) de Pinar del Río, en relación con la fuerza especial en agua, para dar respuesta a una de las demandas tecnológicas que incide en el rendimiento de este deporte. Mediante los métodos empíricos como la observación, se constató que los atletas después de pasar del segundo tiempo de juego, no podían mantener el mismo rendimiento que en los dos primeros, notándose un gran desgaste físico en ellos, lo cual responde a la falta de fuerza especial en agua para soportar la resistencia al medio acuático y al forcejeo con el contrario. Se les aplicó encuestas a los entrenadores, las cuales reflejaron existen insuficiencias en la planificación de los entrenamientos, lo que incide en la preparación óptima de la fuerza especial en agua. Se realizó la revisión al Programa Integral de Preparación del Deportista del año 2016 y no se encontraron acciones metodológicas específicas para el trabajo de la fuerza especial en agua como guía para el trabajo de los entrenadores en el proceso de entrenamiento de esta capacidad. Se revisaron otros documentos que son utilizados por los entrenadores. Se realizaron mediciones para determinar el nivel de fuerza especial en agua de estos atletas escolares. Formó parte de este estudio el uso de los métodos teóricos como el histórico-lógico, inductivo-deductivo, análisis-síntesis y los estadísticos-matemáticos, específicamente la estadística descriptiva.

Resumo O presente trabalho teve o objetivo de caracterizar a situação atual dos atletas da equipe escolar masculino de polo aquático da EIDE (Escola de Iniciação Desportiva) de Pinar del Río, em relação à força especial na água, a fim de responder a uma das exigências tecnológicas que afetam o desempenho deste esporte. Através de métodos empíricos como a observação, verificou-se que os atletas, após a segunda metade do jogo, não conseguiam manter o mesmo desempenho que nas duas primeiras, sendo notado um grande desgaste físico neles, o que responde à falta de força especial na água para suportar a resistência ao meio aquático e a contenda com o adversário. Foram aplicadas pesquisas aos treinadores, que mostraram que havia falhas no planejamento das sessões de treinamento, o que afeta a preparação ótima da força especial na água. Foi realizada a revisão do Programa de Preparação Integral do Desportista 2016 e não foram detectadas acções metodológicas específicas para o trabalho da força especial na água como guia para o trabalho dos treinadores no processo de formação desta capacidade. Outros documentos que são utilizados pelos treinadores também foram revistos. Foram feitas medições para determinar o nível de força especial na água destes atletas escolares. O uso de métodos teóricos como histórico-lógico, indutivo-dedutivo, análise-síntese e estatístico-matemático, especificamente a estatística descritiva, também fez parte deste estudo.

Abstract The present work had the objective of characterizing the current situation of the Man water polo school team athletes of the EIDE (School of Sport base formation) of Pinar del Río, in relation to the special strength in water, in order to give an answer to one of the technological demands that affects the performance in this sport. By means of empirical methods such as observation, it was found that the athletes, after the second half of the game, could not keep the same performance as in the first two, and a great physical wear was noticed in them, which responds to the lack of special strength in water to support the endurance to the aquatic environment and the struggle with the opponent. Surveys were applied to the coaches, which reflected that there are deficiencies in the planning of the training sessions, affecting the optimal preparation of the special strength in water. The review of the Integral Program of Preparation of the athlete (2016) was carried out, not finding specific methodological actions for the work of the special strength in water as a guide for the work of the trainers in the process of training of this capacity, other documents that are used by the trainers were also reviewed. Measurements were made to determine the level of special strength in water of these school athletes. The use of theoretical methods such as historical-logical, inductive-deductive, analysis-synthesis, and statistical-mathematical methods, specifically descriptive statistics, were also part of this study.

Does exercise intensity affect wellness scores in a dose-like fashion?

Wellness questionnaires are common in monitoring systems, yet the sensitivity to variations in acute training intensity is unclear. This study examined the controlled dosage effects of differing exercise intensities on wellness variables and subsequent associations with neuromuscular performance. Participants (n = 10) completed low-, moderate- and high-intensity conditions of a 90 min simulated football match shuttle running protocol scaled relative to beep test scores. The protocols were completed in a randomised and counterbalanced fashion matched for time of day. Wellness (sleep quality, readiness to train, soreness, fatigue, stress, mood, motivation) and neuromuscular performance (maximal voluntary contraction, countermovement jump, 6 s cycle-ergometer sprint) were assessed pre-, post- and 24 h post-exercise. Heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded during, and session RPE (sRPE) after exercise. Generalised linear mixed models demonstrated main effects between conditions with increased HR, RPE and sRPE (P < 0.03; d > 0.8) responses from the low-high condition. Total and z-score wellness showed no significant differences between trials at any time-point (P > 0.05; d = 0.03-0.91). Fatigue was lower 24 h post-exercise for the low, compared to moderate and high conditions (P = 0.006-0.047; d = 1.20-1.77). Ratings of fatigue and soreness increased from pre- to 24 h post-trial (P < 0.003; d = 0.96-2.48), while total wellness and readiness to train decreased over time (P < 0.04; d = 0.91-1.86). Wellness showed limited capacity to differentiate training intensities. Practitioners should be aware while wellness may be highly practical, it may be limited to solely determine athlete accommodation of load considering the strength of association observed with the applied load.

A first insight into the estimation of uncertainty associated with storage and physical preparation of forest moss samples for trace element analysis.

To assess the level of uncertainty related to storage and physical preparation, 27 combined samples of moss species Pleurozium schreberi (Brid.) Mitt and their duplicates were collected within three forest areas. Each sample was divided into three sub-samples subjected to further treatment: D - drying (20-25 °C), F - freezing (-20 °C), and A - acclimatization (4 °C). After 7 days, all the samples were split into two sub-samples for physical preparation, dry (P1) and wet (P2) cleaning, respectively. Subsequently, the samples were milled, digested in a closed microwave system and analysed for Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn using the flame (FAAS) and graphite furnace (GFAAS) atomic absorption spectrometry. In four out of eight metals (Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni), the lowest mean values were in the samples stored at -20 °C, however, in two cases (Cd, Pb), the acclimatization procedure also led to lower concentrations. Except for Mn and Zn, the higher contents of elements were found in samples that were dry cleaned after storage. The level of sample storage uncertainty (srstor) varied from 4.8% to 24.0%. The uncertainty related to preparation was in the range of 3.0-21.0%. Only for Co, the contribution of srstor uncertainty to the budget of uncertainty was lower than that from physical preparation. For the other elements, this contribution was at a similar level (Ni, Zn) or higher (Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb). In most cases, the lower srprep values were obtained when the samples were dry cleaned after storage, regardless of the storage conditions.

TEST-retest reliability of kinetic variables measured on campus board in sport climbers.

Sport climbers frequently use campus board (CB) to improve their upper limb strength under similar conditions of high-difficulty sport climbing routes. The objective of this study was to assess the test-retest reliability of peak force and impulse measured using a CB instrumented with two load cells on starting holds. The same evaluator examined 22 climbers on two days with 48 h between the assessments. The participants performed five concentric lunges (CL) and five lunges with stretch-shortening cycle with 1 min intervals between repetitions and 10 min between exercises. All variables were associated with significant intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values (p = 0.001), and none variable showed systematic errors (p > 0.05). Peak force ICC was higher than 0.88, and the standard error of measurement (SEM%) was less than 5%. Impulse ICC for the CL was greater than 0.90, and the SEM% was less than 14%. We conclude that the kinetic variables measured using the CB were reliable. The ability of the hands to maintain contact with the holds (peak force) and the abilities of the arms and shoulders vertically move the centre of mass (impulse) should be taken into account by coaches on CB training prescription as well for further research.

Duas semanas de pré-temporada melhoram a velocidade e força máxima de membros inferiores em jogadores profi ssionais de futebol? / Two weeks pre-season improve velocity and maximal strength lower limbs in professional soccer players?

A preparação física durante a pré-temporada é extremamente importante para incremento e manutenção da performance. No entanto, o tempo de preparação de jogadores profi ssionais de futebol tem sido cada vez menor em função de um extenso calendário de jogos. Verifi car o efeito em curto prazo (duas semanas) de um programa de treinamento físico em conjunto com o treinamento técnico/tático no desenvolvimento da força máxima absoluta e relativa, e na velocidade de jogadores profi ssionais de futebol. 15 atletas profi ssionais (26 ± 2,6 anos; 79,7 ± 9,3 kg; 183,8 ± 5,7 cm; 12,4 ± 2,5 %G) que disputavam a série A1 do campeonato paulista participaram do presente estudo. Foram realizadas duas semanas de treinamento durante a pré-temporada. A organização das sessões envolveu treinamentos de força máxima, potência, resistência de força e resistência anaeróbia. Foram mensuradas a performance de sprint 15m, a força máxima absoluta e relativa (agachamento) pré e pós-programa de treinamento físico. Foi observado melhora signifi cante na velocidade de sprint 15m (Pré 2,48 ± 0,10 s x Pós 2,40 ± 0,08 s; P<0,05; TE = moderado 0,80), bem como a força muscular de membros inferiores tanto em valores absolutos (kg) (Pré 121,6 ± 23,8 x Pós 138,5 ± 26,0; P<0,05; TE = moderado 0,71; Δ% = 12,2), quanto relativos (kg/kg-1) (Pré 1,50 ± 0,25 x Pós 1,73 ± 0,34; P<0,05; TE = moderado 0,92; Δ% = 13,3). Um programa de treinamento físico com envolvimento de diferentes manifestações de forças, durante apenas duas semanas (pré-temporada) foi sufi ciente para incrementar signifi cantemente a força máxima (absoluta e relativa) e a velocidade de sprint 15m em jogadores profi ssionais de futebol....(AU)

The physical preparation during the pre-season is extremely important for enhance and maintenance of performance. However, the time of preparation of professional soccer players have been less due to an extensive schedule of games. The objective of this study was to determine the eff ect in the short term (two weeks) of a physical training program in conjunction with technical training/tactical development of the maximum absolute and relative strength, and speed of professional soccer players. 15 professional athletes (26 ± 2.6 years; 79.7 ± 9.3 kg; 183.8 ± 5.7 m, 12.4 ± 2.5% G) with experience in state-level competitions series A1 participated in the this study. There were two weeks of training during the pre-season. The organization of the sessions involved training maximal strength, power, strength resistance and anaerobic resistance. Sprint performance was assessed 15m, the maximum absolute strength and relative pre and post-exercise training program. We observed signifi cant improvement in sprint speed 15m (pre 2.48 ± 0.10 2.40 ± 0.08 sx Post s; P <0.05; TE = moderate 0.80) as well as muscle strength lower limb both in absolute values (kg) (Pre 121.6 ± 23.8 138.5 ± 26.0 x Post; P <0.05; TE = moderate 0.71; Δ% = 12.2) and relative (kg / kg-1) (1.50 ± 0.25 x Pre post 1.73 ± 0.34; P <0.05; moderate TE = 0.92, Δ = 13.3%). An exercise program involving multiple manifestations of forces, for only two weeks (pre-season) was suffi cient to signifi cantly increase the maximum strength (absolute and relative) and the 15m sprint speed in professional soccer players....(AU)

The Physical Characteristics of Specific Phases of Play During Rugby Union Match Play.

PURPOSE: To quantify the frequencies and timings of rugby union match-play phases (ie, attacking, defending, ball in play [BIP], and ball out of play [BOP]) and then compare the physical characteristics of attacking, defending, and BOP between forwards and backs. METHODS: Data were analyzed from 59 male rugby union academy players (259 observations). Each player wore a microtechnology device (OptimEye S5; Catapult, Melbourne, Australia) with video footage analyzed for phase timings and frequencies. Dependent variables were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model and assessed with magnitude-based inferences and Cohen d effect sizes (ES). RESULTS: Attack, defense, BIP, and BOP times were 12.7 (3.1), 14.7 (2.5), 27.4 (2.9), and 47.4 (4.1) min, respectively. Mean attack (26 [17] s), defense (26 [18] s), and BIP (33 [24] s) phases were shorter than BOP phases (59 [33] s). The relative distance in attacking phases was similar (112.2 [48.4] vs 114.6 [52.3] m·min-1, ES = 0.00 ± 0.23) between forwards and backs but greater in forwards (114.5 [52.7] vs 109.0 [54.8] m·min-1, ES = 0.32 ± 0.23) during defense and greater in backs during BOP (ES = -0.66 ± 0.23). CONCLUSIONS: Total time in attack, defense, and therefore BIP was less than BOP. Relative distance was greater in forwards during defense, whereas it was greater in backs during BOP and similar between positions during attack. Players should be exposed to training intensities from in-play phases (ie, attack and defense) rather than whole-match data and practice technical skills during these intensities.

Altering the Speed Profiles of Wheelchair Rugby Players With Game-Simulation Drill Design.

PURPOSE: To examine the speed profiles of elite wheelchair rugby (WCR) players during game-simulation training drills of differing player number and shot-clock regulations. A secondary aim was to determine whether the profiles were further influenced by player classification. METHODS: Eight elite WCR players (low-point n = 3, high-point n = 5) were monitored using a radio-frequency-based indoor tracking system during training sessions over a 5-mo period. Speed profiles were collected for 3 modified game-simulation drills-3-versus-3 drills (n = 8 observations), 30-s shot clock (n = 24 observations), and 15-s shot clock (n = 16 observations)-and were compared with regular game-simulation drills (4 vs 4, 40-s shot clock; n = 16 observations). Measures included mean and peak speed; exercise-intensity ratios, defined as the ratio of time spent performing at high and low speeds; and the number of high-speed activities performed. RESULTS: Compared with regular game-simulation drills, 3-versus-3 drills elicited a moderate increase in mean speed (6.3%; effect size [ES] = 0.7) and the number of high-speed activities performed (44.1%; ES = 1.1). Minimal changes in speed profiles were observed during the 30-s shot clock, although moderate to large increases in all measures were observed during the 15-s shot-clock drills. Classification-specific differences were further identified, with increased activity observed for high-point players during the 3-versus-3 drill and for low-point players during the 15-s shot clock. CONCLUSION: By reducing the number of players on court and the shot clock to 15 s, coaches can significantly increase elite WCR players' speed profiles during game-simulation drills.

The Specificity of Rugby Union Training Sessions in Preparation for Match Demands.

PURPOSE: Investigations into the specificity of rugby union training practices in preparation for competitive demands have predominantly focused on physical and physiological demands. The evaluation of the contextual variance in perceptual strain or skill requirements between training and matches in rugby union is unclear, yet holistic understanding may assist to optimize training design. This study evaluated the specificity of physical, physiological, perceptual, and skill demands of training sessions compared with competitive match play in preprofessional, elite club rugby union. METHODS: Global positioning system devices, video capture, heart rate, and session ratings of perceived exertion were used to assess movement patterns, skill completions, physiologic, and perceptual responses, respectively. Data were collected across a season (training sessions n = 29; matches n = 14). Participants (n = 32) were grouped in playing positions as: outside backs, centers, halves, loose forwards, lock forwards, and front row forwards. RESULTS: Greater total distance, low-intensity activity, maximal speed, and meters per minute were apparent in matches compared with training in all positions (P < .02; d > 0.90). Similarly, match heart rate and session ratings of perceived exertion responses were higher than those recorded in training (P < .05; d > 0.8). Key skill completions for forwards (ie, scrums, rucks, and lineouts) and backs (ie, kicks) were greater under match conditions than in training (P < .001; d > 1.50). CONCLUSION: Considerable disparities exist between the perceptual, physiological, and key skill demands of competitive matches versus training sessions in preprofessional rugby union players. Practitioners should consider the specificity of training tasks for preprofessional rugby players to ensure the best preparation for match demands.

An impact of moss sample cleaning on uncertainty of analytical measurement and pattern profiles of rare earth elements.

The main source of rare earth elements (REE) in mosses is atmospheric deposition of particles. Sample treatment operations including shaking, rinsing or washing, which are made in a standard way on moss samples prior to chemical analysis, may lead to removing particles adsorbed onto their tissues. This in turn causes differences in REE concentrations in treated and untreated samples. For the present study, 27 combined moss samples were collected within three wooded areas and prepared for REE determinations by ICP-MS using both manual cleaning by shaking and triple rinsing with deionized water. Higher concentrations of REE were found in manually cleaned samples. The comparison of REE signatures and shale-normalized REE concentration patterns showed that the treatment procedure did not lead to fractionation of REE. All the samples were enriched in medium rare earth elements, and the δMREE factor remained practically unchanged after rinsing. Positive anomalies of Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Er and Yb were observed in both, manually cleaned and rinsed samples. For all the elements examined, analytical uncertainty was below 3.0% whereas sample preparation uncertainty computed with ANOVA, RANOVA, modified RANOVA and range statistics methods varied from 3.5 to 29.7%. In most cases the lowest srprep values were obtained with the modified RANOVA method.

Physiological profile of a professional boxer preparing for Title Bout: A case study.

This study aimed to (1) profile a professional boxer (23 years and 80 kg) with boxing-specific, muscle function, aerobic capacity and body composition tests, and (2) quantify how these measures varied during an 8-week preparation phase leading to, and post a state-Title Bout fought in the 76.2-kg class. A series of boxing-specific and muscle function tests were completed on 11 occasions: 9 prior and twice after the bout, each separated by approximately 2 weeks. The boxing test included 36 maximal punches (9 of each: lead and rear straights, lead and rear hooks) to a punching integrator measuring forces and velocity. Muscle function tests included countermovement jump, drop-jumps, isometric mid-thigh pull and isometric bench-press. Body composition was assessed using skin-fold measurements on three occasions and one dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. Aerobic capacity was assessed using 2 VO2 max tests. Leading up to the bout, performance decreased in isometric mid-thigh pull (8%), isometric bench-press (5%), countermovement jump (15%) and impact forces in 3 of 4 punches (4%-7%). Whereas measures of dynamic and isometric muscle function remained depressed or unchanged post competition, punching forces (6%-15%) and aerobic power (6%) increased. Data suggest the athlete may have super-compensated following rest as fatigue dissipated and further adaptation occurred.