Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

14 pages, 20188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Ventilatory Responses during Stress Tests in Patients with Chronic Pain: Implications for Therapeutic Interventions

by Patricio Barría, María Gaitán-Padilla, Daniel Gomez-Vargas, Gonzalo Cardenas Ampuero, Kay Gitterman, Bessie Cordova, Camilo A. R. Diaz and Flavio Roberti

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030122 - 7 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Understanding the differences in ventilatory responses during exercise between patients with fibromyalgia and those with other chronic pain disorders is crucial for developing effective therapeutic interventions, especially in exercise to identify the better physical therapy prescription. Both populations face unique challenges that impact [...] Read more.

Understanding the differences in ventilatory responses during exercise between patients with fibromyalgia and those with other chronic pain disorders is crucial for developing effective therapeutic interventions, especially in exercise to identify the better physical therapy prescription. Both populations face unique challenges that impact their ability to engage in physical activity; yet, the underlying physiological responses can vary significantly. In this context, the methodology of this study entailed conducting a comparative analysis of the ventilatory response during exercise in patients with fibromyalgia and those with other chronic pain disorders. The experimental protocol included a total of 31 participants (n = 13 diagnosed with fibromyalgia and n = 18 diagnosed with other chronic pain conditions). All participants completed a stress test, where the ventilatory parameters were measured in three stages (i.e., resting, incremental exercise, and recovery). The results revealed significant differences (

p < 0.05

) in ventilatory responses between both groups. Patients with fibromyalgia exhibited reduced time for the aerobic threshold and a higher respiratory frequency in the anaerobic threshold compared to those with other chronic pain disorders. Furthermore, fibromyalgia patients demonstrated higher values in the ventilatory coefficient during the test and in the recovery stage. In conclusion, these differences underscore the need for tailored exercise programs that specifically address the unique ventilatory challenges faced by fibromyalgia patients to improve their physical function and overall quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Exercise for Health Promotion)

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11 pages, 510 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anthropometric and Somatotype Profile of Elite Finn Class Sailors

by Luka Pezelj, Boris Milavić and Mirjana Milić

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030121 - 5 Jul 2024

Viewed by 272

Abstract

Determining the reference base of anthropometric parameters on a sample of elite athletes is one of the foundations of further research and forming a clearer picture of each sport and sports discipline. In this study, the aim was to describe the anthropometric and [...] Read more.

Determining the reference base of anthropometric parameters on a sample of elite athletes is one of the foundations of further research and forming a clearer picture of each sport and sports discipline. In this study, the aim was to describe the anthropometric and somatotype profiles of elite Finn class sailors and to determine the differences in the measured parameters between sailors at different levels of general competitive success. The subject sample included 57 Finn class sailors who competed at the open Finn European Championship. A set of 25 anthropometric variables were applied. The sailors were divided into three groups according to their level of general competitive success using World Sailing Rankings. Finn sailors had higher average values in almost all morphological characteristics when compared to the sailors in other Olympic classes. Considering the average values of somatotype categories, we determined that Finn sailors fit the endomorphic mesomorph somatotype category (3.94 ± 1.19 − 5.50 ± 1.19 − 1.63 ± 0.74). Significant differences were observed between more-successful, medium, and less-successful sailors in the variables of age, body mass, muscle mass, arm muscle mass, and endomorphy rating. These results indicate the possibility of selection processes and/or adaptation to sailing occurring in the Finn class. The anthropometric characteristics of Finn sailors compared to sailors in Olympic classes further “support” the Finn class being called the “heavy dinghy” male class. This study on anthropometric parameters, determined via a sample of top Finn sailors, may be of great help to coaches and young sailors when deciding on the selection of an adult sailing class. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanical Analysis in Physical Activity and Sports)

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12 pages, 725 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Match-to-Match Variation on High-Intensity Demands in a Portuguese Professional Football Team

by José E. Teixeira, Luís Branquinho, Miguel Leal, Ryland Morgans, Andrew Sortwell, Tiago M. Barbosa, António M. Monteiro, Pedro Afonso, Guilherme Machado, Samuel Encarnação, Ricardo Ferraz and Pedro Forte

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030120 - 4 Jul 2024

Viewed by 318

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the match-to-match variation in high-intensity demands from one Portuguese professional football team according to playing positions. Twenty-three male outfield professional football players were observed during eighteen matches of the Portuguese Second League. Time–motion data were [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyze the match-to-match variation in high-intensity demands from one Portuguese professional football team according to playing positions. Twenty-three male outfield professional football players were observed during eighteen matches of the Portuguese Second League. Time–motion data were collected using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Match running performance was analyzed based on the following three playing positions: defenders (DF), midfielders (MF), and forwards (FW). Repeated measures ANOVA was utilized to compare match running performance within each position role, and seasonal running variation. Practical differences were assessed using the smallest worthwhile change (SWC), coefficient of variation (CV), and twice the coefficient of variation (2CV). Significant differences were found among playing positions in total distance covered (F = 15.45, p < 0.001, η² = 0.33), average speed (F = 12.79, p < 0.001, η² = 0.29), high-speed running (F = 16.93, p < 0.001, η² = 0.36), sprinting (F = 13.49, p < 0.001, η² = 0.31), accelerations (F = 4.69, p = 0.001, η² = 0.132), and decelerations (F = 12.21, p < 0.001, η² = 0.284). The match-to-match running performance encompassed TD (6.59%), AvS (8.67%), HSRr (37.83%), SPR (34.82%), ACC (26.92%), and DEC (27.85%). CV values for total distance covered ranged from 4.87–6.82%, with forwards and midfielders exhibiting the greatest and smallest variation, respectively. Midfielders demonstrated the highest match-to-match variation for all other analyzed variables (8.12–69.17%). All playing positions showed significant variation in high-demanding variables (26.94–37.83%). This study presents the initial analysis of match-to-match variation in high-intensity demands within a Portuguese professional football team. Thus, the position’s specificity and context can provide a helpful strategy for evaluating match-to-match running performance, and for recommending individualized training exercises based on the peak and high-intensity demands for each player’s role within the game. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Strength and Resistance Training: Best Practices Applied to Sports Disciplines and Performance)

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13 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regular Physical Activity Can Counteract LONG COVID Symptoms in Adults over 40

by Marco Centorbi, Giulia Di Martino, Carlo della Valle, Enzo Iuliano, Gloria Di Claudio, Amelia Mascioli, Giuseppe Calcagno, Alessandra di Cagno, Andrea Buonsenso and Giovanni Fiorilli

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030119 - 4 Jul 2024

Viewed by 469

Abstract

Three years after the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic, a chronic post-COVID syndrome “LONG COVID” persists, causing fatigue and shortness of breath, along with distress, anxiety, and depression. Aim: To assess the impact of physical activity on the management and rehabilitation of LONG COVID, as well [...] Read more.

Three years after the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic, a chronic post-COVID syndrome “LONG COVID” persists, causing fatigue and shortness of breath, along with distress, anxiety, and depression. Aim: To assess the impact of physical activity on the management and rehabilitation of LONG COVID, as well as to investigate the persistence of LONG COVID symptomatology in individuals over 40 years, beyond the pandemic. Methods: A total of 1004 participants (aged 53.45 ± 11.35) were recruited through an online snowball sampling strategy to complete a web-based survey. The following questionnaires were administered: Physical Activity Scale for Elderly (PASE), Shortness of Breath Questionnaire (SOBQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 item (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC). Results: Significant gender differences were discovered, with women reporting higher symptoms than men (p < 0.001). Significant age differences were also found, with participants under 55 showing higher values than those over 55 (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between aerobic and mixed physical activity (p > 0.05) while significant results emerged between physical activity groups and the no activity group (p < 0.001). The low-frequency group reported higher symptoms than the high-frequency group (all ps < 0.001). Conclusion: Regardless of the type of physical activity performed, our survey identified the frequency of training as a crucial factor to overcome LONG COVID symptoms; the challenge lies in overcoming the difficulties due to the persistent feelings of inefficiency and fatigue typical of those who have contracted the infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

16 pages, 3211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of the NeuroHAB Program on Low Back Pain and Oswestry Disability Index Scores: A Retrospective Wait-List Control Study

by Brogan Williams and David Johnson

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030118 - 3 Jul 2024

Viewed by 307

Abstract

Movement theory and the study of movement dysfunction mark a paradigm shift in the treatment of low back pain symptoms, the majority of which are mechanical in origin at the outset. Treating movement dysfunction centers around unified and consistent rehabilitation that defines proficient [...] Read more.

Movement theory and the study of movement dysfunction mark a paradigm shift in the treatment of low back pain symptoms, the majority of which are mechanical in origin at the outset. Treating movement dysfunction centers around unified and consistent rehabilitation that defines proficient movement for the lumbopelvic spine. The purpose of this study is to document the improvement in pain and disability of 290 patients who underwent NeuroHAB Functional Movement Therapy to reverse their lumbopelvic movement dysfunction attributed to causing their back pain symptoms between 2019 and 2023. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were collected from each participant on three occasions: the first consultation, after a waiting period/pre-intervention, and after the eight-week intervention. A single-factor ANOVA of all three ODI data sets was conducted, along with supporting descriptive statistics. A post-hoc t-test pairwise comparison was conducted for accuracy. The average ODI 1 score (taken at the first consultation) was 15.26 ± 6.1% (CI: 14.3–16.2); ODI 2 (after a waiting period, before NeuroHAB) was 14.71 ± 6.0% (CI: 13.82–15.59); and ODI 3 (post-intervention) was 9.09 ± 8.6% (CI: 8.305–9.875). There was no significant change from ODI 1 to ODI 2 (between the consultation and waitlist control periods). However, a significant reduction between ODI 2 and ODI 3 was observed (pre- and post-intervention) (mean difference: 5.62, p ≤ 0.001), and a 40.41% reduction was observed between ODI 1 (the ODI score taken at the first consultation) and ODI 3 (the ODI score taken after NeuroHAB, post-intervention) (mean difference: 6.17, p ≤ 0.001). A 50% ODI reduction was reported in the “Crippled” category (mean difference 16.15, p ≤ 0.001). The inclusion of functional movement proficiency and stability in future guidelines is a necessary step towards meaningful improvement in epidemic levels of back pain-related clinical and economic morbidity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Exercise for Health Promotion)

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13 pages, 848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lifestyle as a Modulator of the Effects on Fitness of an Integrated Neuromuscular Training in Primary Education

by Blanca Roman-Viñas, Fidanka Vasileva, Raquel Font-Lladó, Susana Aznar-Laín, Fabio Jiménez-Zazo, Abel Lopez-Bermejo, Victor López-Ros and Anna Prats-Puig

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030117 - 2 Jul 2024

Viewed by 345

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate changes in fitness after an integrated neuromuscular training (INT) intervention in primary school children and to evaluate how lifestyle behaviors and parental education modulate these changes. One hundred and seventy children (7.45 ± 0.34 years; 52% girls) were [...] Read more.

The objective was to evaluate changes in fitness after an integrated neuromuscular training (INT) intervention in primary school children and to evaluate how lifestyle behaviors and parental education modulate these changes. One hundred and seventy children (7.45 ± 0.34 years; 52% girls) were included. Cardiorespiratory fitness (half-mile run test), a 10 × 5 m shuttle run test, standing broad jump (SBJ), handgrip dynamometer, body mass index (BMI) and fat mass percentage (FM%) were assessed before and after the 3-month intervention (20 min of INT in the physical education class, twice per week). The Mediterranean diet (MD), sleep time and parental education level (PEL) were evaluated by questionnaires, and adherence to physical activity (PA) recommendations was measured with a triaxial accelerometer before the intervention. After the intervention, there were improvements in the 10 × 5 test and the SBJ. Only girls had improvements in the handgrip test, BMI SDS and FM%. After correcting for confounding variables, only BMI was significantly improved whereas strength improved in the participants non-compliant with the PA recommendations or pertaining to families of high PEL. The INT produced improvements in fitness in a brief period and in different subgroups of pupils (inactive and with diverse sociocultural environments). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity for Optimal Health)

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12 pages, 1043 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of the Patellar Tendon in Cyclists, Volleyball Players, and Non-Practitioners of Sports—The Influence of Gender, Age, Height, Dominant Limb, and Level of Physical Activity

by Ângela Pissarra, Luís Ribeiro and Sónia Rodrigues

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030116 - 1 Jul 2024

Viewed by 442

Abstract

This study was based on the ultrasound evaluation of the patellar tendon dimensions in the anteroposterior and transversal approaches in sports practitioners (cyclists and volleyball players) and non-sports practitioners. Relationships between the patellar tendon length, width, and thickness with gender, age, height, the [...] Read more.

This study was based on the ultrasound evaluation of the patellar tendon dimensions in the anteroposterior and transversal approaches in sports practitioners (cyclists and volleyball players) and non-sports practitioners. Relationships between the patellar tendon length, width, and thickness with gender, age, height, the dominant limb, and level of physical activity were evaluated. The samples included cyclists, volleyball players, and non-sports practitioners between 15 and 25 years old. Individuals were positioned supine with 30 degrees of knee flexion for bilateral measurements. Sports practitioners presented with an increased patellar tendon length and thickness. There were significant differences bilaterally between sports and non-sports practitioners (p < 0.003). The three dimensions of the patellar tendon of both limbs presented correlations with the male gender (0.336 < r < 0.601), and values of moderate-to-strong intensity in the length of the patellar tendon was directly proportional to height (0.520 < r < 0.601). There was a significant difference between the patellar tendon width and age (p < 0.025). Regarding the level of physical activity, significant differences were found between low and high levels in the three dimensions bilaterally (p < 0.004). The study results indicate that gender, age, height, and level of physical activity impact patellar tendon dimensions. However, there are no associations with the dominant limb. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skeletal Muscle Mechanics)

12 pages, 545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Muscular Fatigue on Position Sense in Two Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

by Elmina-Eleftheria Roditi, Themistoklis Tsatalas, Giorgos K. Sakkas, Yiannis Koutedakis, Giannis Giakas and Christina Karatzaferi

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030115 - 29 Jun 2024

Viewed by 340

Abstract

It is generally accepted that local muscular fatigue can negatively affect position sense. Interestingly, it has been proposed that in women, position sense and neuromuscular coordination may be affected by fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone levels. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.

It is generally accepted that local muscular fatigue can negatively affect position sense. Interestingly, it has been proposed that in women, position sense and neuromuscular coordination may be affected by fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone levels. The aim of this study was to examine the possible effect of localized muscle fatigue on knee joint position sense at two phases of the menses: follicular and luteal. Twenty physically active females aged 19–30 years, with normal menses, volunteered for this study. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to evaluate proprioception and perform the fatigue protocol of the knee extensors and flexors. Knee proprioception at rest and after fatigue at three knee target angles (30°, 45°, 60°) was measured. A three-way ANOVA analysis with repeated measures was performed. The results showed that the main effect of fatigue was significant, but no main effect of the menstrual cycle phase was found. Additionally, a main effect was found for the target angle (more flexed target knee joint angles were associated with larger angular error deviations). In conclusion, localized muscle fatigue can significantly reduce the accuracy of active knee joint repositioning in both the luteal and the follicular menstrual phases in young, physically active healthy women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise and Evaluation for Health and Occupational Wellness: Current Trends and Future Directions)

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12 pages, 1745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Data Mining Paths for Standard Weekly Training Load in Sub-Elite Young Football Players: A Machine Learning Approach

by José E. Teixeira, Samuel Encarnação, Luís Branquinho, Ryland Morgans, Pedro Afonso, João Rocha, Francisco Graça, Tiago M. Barbosa, António M. Monteiro, Ricardo Ferraz and Pedro Forte

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030114 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 942

Abstract

The aim of this study was to test a machine learning (ML) model to predict high-intensity actions and body impacts during youth football training. Sixty under-15, -17, and -19 sub-elite Portuguese football players were monitored over a 6-week period. External training load data [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to test a machine learning (ML) model to predict high-intensity actions and body impacts during youth football training. Sixty under-15, -17, and -19 sub-elite Portuguese football players were monitored over a 6-week period. External training load data were collected from the target variables of accelerations (ACCs), decelerations (DECs), and dynamic stress load (DSL) using an 18 Hz global positioning system (GPS). Additionally, we monitored the perceived exertion and biological characteristics using total quality recovery (TQR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), session RPE (sRPE), chronological age, maturation offset (MO), and age at peak height velocity (APHV). The ML model was computed by a feature selection process with a linear regression forecast and bootstrap method. The predictive analysis revealed that the players’ MO demonstrated varying degrees of effectiveness in predicting their DEC and ACC across different ranges of IQR. After predictive analysis, the following performance values were observed: DEC (

\bar{x}

_predicted = 41, β = 3.24, intercept = 37.0), lower IQR (IQR_predicted = 36.6, β = 3.24, intercept = 37.0), and upper IQR (IQR_predicted = 46 decelerations, β = 3.24, intercept = 37.0). The player’s MO also demonstrated the ability to predict their upper IQR (IQR_predicted = 51, β = 3.8, intercept = 40.62), lower IQR (IQR_predicted = 40, β = 3.8, intercept = 40.62), and ACC (

\bar{x}

_predicted = 46 accelerations, β = 3.8, intercept = 40.62). The ML model showed poor performance in predicting the players’ ACC and DEC using MO (MSE = 2.47–4.76; RMSE = 1.57–2.18: R² = −0.78–0.02). Maturational concerns are prevalent in football performance and should be regularly checked, as the current ML model treated MO as the sole variable for ACC, DEC, and DSL. Applying ML models to assess automated tracking data can be an effective strategy, particularly in the context of forecasting peak ACC, DEC, and bodily effects in sub-elite youth football training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Machine Learning in Sports Medicine, Physical Activity, Posture, and Rehabilitation)

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7 pages, 760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Practical but Inaccurate? A-Mode Ultrasound and Bioelectrical Impedance Underestimate Body Fat Percentage Compared to Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Male College Students

by Markus Olinto, Victor César Lins, Gabriel Rocha, Marco Aurélio Dourado and Maurilio Dutra

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030113 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 565

Abstract

Bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and ultrasound (US) have become popular for estimating body fat percentage (BF%) due to their low cost and clinical convenience. However, the agreement of these devices with the gold-standard method still requires investigation. The aim was to analyze the agreement [...] Read more.

Bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and ultrasound (US) have become popular for estimating body fat percentage (BF%) due to their low cost and clinical convenience. However, the agreement of these devices with the gold-standard method still requires investigation. The aim was to analyze the agreement between a gold-standard %BF assessment method with BIA and US devices. Twenty-three men (aged 30.1 ± 7.7 years, weighing 82.5 ± 14.9 kg, 1.77 ± 0.05 m tall) underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), BIA (tetrapolar) and US (three-site method) %BF assessments. Pearson and concordance correlations were analyzed. A T-test was used to compare the means of the methods, and Bland–Altman plots analyzed agreement and proportional bias. Alpha was set at <0.05. The Pearson coefficients of BIA and US with DXA were high (BIA = 0.94; US = 0.89; both p < 0.001). The concordance coefficient was high for BIA (0.80) and moderate for US (0.49). The BF% measured by BIA (24.5 ± 7.5) and US (19.4 ± 7.0) was on average 4.4% and 9.6% lower than DXA (29.0 + 8.5%), respectively (p < 0.001). Lower and upper agreement limits between DXA and BIA were −1.45 and 10.31, while between DXA and US, they were 2.01 and 17.14, respectively. There was a tendency of both BIA (p = 0.09) and US (p = 0.057) to present proportional bias and underestimate BF%. Despite the correlation, the mean differences between the methods were significant, and the agreement limits were very wide. This indicates that BIA and US, as measured in this study, have limited potential to accurately measure %BF compared to DXA, especially in individuals with higher body fat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sports Medicine and Nutrition)

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12 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training on Cognitive and Physical Skills in Basketball and Soccer Players

by Sehrish Shiraz, Chiara Salimei, Maurizio Aracri, Carlo Di Lorenzo, Pasquale Farsetti, Attilio Parisi, Ferdinando Iellamo, Giuseppe Caminiti and Marco Alfonso Perrone

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030112 - 27 Jun 2024

Viewed by 335

Abstract

As athletes pursue excellence, training techniques continue to advance, making structured physical activity an essential tool for enhancing performance. To optimize athletic performance in modern competitive sports, the balance of physical performance and mental clarity is required. This study seeks to examine the [...] Read more.

As athletes pursue excellence, training techniques continue to advance, making structured physical activity an essential tool for enhancing performance. To optimize athletic performance in modern competitive sports, the balance of physical performance and mental clarity is required. This study seeks to examine the effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on cognitive and physical skills in basketball and soccer players. A 3-week HIIT protocol was incorporated based on the Wingate technique. This study included 10 soccer players and 10 basketball players with an average age of 22.79 ± 1.90 years. Participants performed pre- and post-intervention assessments. Physical proficiency was assessed using 20 m sprint, change-of-direction (COD) and dribbling tests, while cognitive skills were assessed using motion object tracking (MOT), working memory, perceptual load (PL), and attention window (AW) tests. The HIIT intervention significantly improved cognitive performance in particular; noteworthy observations were a 15% improvement in motion object tracking test scores and a 16% increase in working memory test scores for basketball players. The attention window test scores showed a 32% increase, and perceptual load test scores were 31% decreased for soccer players post-intervention. There were significant improvements in physical skills; for example, sprint times were decreased by 6%, and change-of-direction and dribbling times were reduced by 8% and 7%, respectively, indicating improved agility, speed, and ball control abilities. In conclusion, both groups performed significantly better on cognitive and physical skill tests post-HIIT intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiology of Training)

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13 pages, 1438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of 34 Weeks of Military Service on Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Military Cadets of Angola

by Manuel Coge, Henrique Pereira Neiva, Ana Pereira, Luís Faíl, Bruno Ribeiro and Dulce Esteves

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030111 - 26 Jun 2024

Viewed by 745

Abstract

Military personnel need physical fitness to effectively carry out operational military activities within their specific field of operation. This research investigates the effects of a 34-week training program on Angolan cadets’ body composition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Seventy-four volunteer recruits, aged 18 [...] Read more.

Military personnel need physical fitness to effectively carry out operational military activities within their specific field of operation. This research investigates the effects of a 34-week training program on Angolan cadets’ body composition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Seventy-four volunteer recruits, aged 18 to 26 years, were monitored during their eight-month military service, following an exercise program protocol comprising 12 weeks of strength training followed by 24 weeks of endurance training. Anthropometric variables, including body mass, body mass index, and fat mass, were assessed, along with cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂max), sprint performance, countermovement jump (CMJ), medicine ball throw, push-ups, and curl-ups. The physical training protocol encompassed running sessions, strength exercises, agility drills, and flexibility exercises. The initial assessment revealed gender differences in various parameters such as body mass, body fat percentage, VO₂max, sprinting, countermovement jump (CMJ), medicine ball throw, and push-ups. Following the training program, changes were observed in all variables (effect size between 0.48 and 2.33, p < 0.01) for the participants. Significant interactions (sex × time) were found in body mass (F = 5.18, p = 0.03, ηp² = 0.06), body fat percentage (F = 5.31, p < 0.01, ηp² = 0.14), and medicine ball throw (F = 10.84, p < 0.01, ηp² = 0.13). Specifically, males exhibited a greater reduction in body mass (females: 2.70%, males: 3.47%, p < 0.05) and a substantial improvement in ball throwing performance (females: 7.74%, males: 11.47%, p < 0.01), while females experienced a greater reduction in fat mass (females: 5.34%, males: 3.15%, p < 0.01). The physical training regimen effectively influenced body composition, particularly in enhancing strength performance among males. The integration of exercise programs with military service led to a notable reduction in fat tissue and an increase in lean tissue. Hence, the development of tailored training protocols is imperative to enhance the physical capacity and overall health of military recruits, considering sex-specific characteristics and physical attributes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Post-activation Performance Enhancement)

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13 pages, 780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-Arthroplasty Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters in Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis or Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: An Observational Study

by Sophia Stasi, Georgios Papagiannis, Athanasios Triantafyllou, Panayiotis Papagelopoulos and Panagiotis Koulouvaris

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030110 - 25 Jun 2024

Viewed by 870

Abstract

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a preferred treatment for primary osteoarthritis (OA) or secondary degenerative arthropathy due to developmental hip dysplasia (DDH). Gait analysis is considered a gold standard for evaluating post-arthroplasty walking patterns. This study compared post-THA spatiotemporal gait parameters (SGPs) between [...] Read more.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a preferred treatment for primary osteoarthritis (OA) or secondary degenerative arthropathy due to developmental hip dysplasia (DDH). Gait analysis is considered a gold standard for evaluating post-arthroplasty walking patterns. This study compared post-THA spatiotemporal gait parameters (SGPs) between OA and DDH patients and explored correlations with demographic and clinical variables. Thirty patients (15 per group) were recorded during gait and their SGPs were analyzed. Functionality was evaluated with the Oxford Hip Score (OHS). The OA patients were significantly older than DDH patients (p < 0.005). Significant and moderate to strong were the correlations between SGPs, age, and four items of the OHS concerning hip pain and activities of daily life (0.31 < Pearson’s r < 0.51 all p < 0.05). Following THA, both groups exhibited similar levels of the examined gait parameters. Post-arthroplasty SGPs and OHS correlations indicate limitations in certain activities. Given the absence of pre-operative data and the correlation between age and SGPs and OHS, ANCOVA testing revealed that age adjusts OHS and SGP values, while pre-operative diagnosis has no main effect. These findings indicate that hip OA or DDH do not affect postoperative SGPs and patients’ functionality. Future studies should examine both kinematic and kinetic data to better evaluate the post-THA gait patterns of OA and DDH patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanical Analysis in Physical Activity and Sports)

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6 pages, 9302 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

A Unique Bilateral Variation of the Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus: A Case Report

by Maria Amelia Coello, Lokesh A. Coomar and Meadow Campbell

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030109 - 25 Jun 2024

Viewed by 370

Abstract

A novel combination of variations involving the extensor carpi radialis (ECR) muscle group was observed bilaterally in a 75-year-old female cadaver during routine dissection. An accessory tendon was observed arising from the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and traveling with the primary tendon [...] Read more.

A novel combination of variations involving the extensor carpi radialis (ECR) muscle group was observed bilaterally in a 75-year-old female cadaver during routine dissection. An accessory tendon was observed arising from the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and traveling with the primary tendon through the second compartment of the extensor retinaculum. While the primary tendon inserted on the base of the second metacarpal, as is typical of ECRL, the accessory tendon inserted on the base of the third metacarpal. This insertion is typical of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle. Additionally, bilateral agenesis of the ECRB was reported. Thirty-two additional forearms were assessed for similar variations, with none being observed. This combination of variations adds to the literature regarding the ECR muscle group, while also being of interest to clinicians, specifically regarding tendon reconstructive procedures as well as accessing the distal radial artery via the anatomical snuffbox. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Functional Anatomy and Musculoskeletal System)

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J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol., Volume 9, Issue 3 (September 2024) – 14 articles

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