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Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise

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A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 January 2025 | Viewed by 10600

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Barbara Gilic

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Guest Editor

Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Interests: sports performance; stress biomarkers; muscle oxygenation; sports climbing; combat sports; physical literacy; health literacy; lifestyle medicine

Dr. Andrea Fusco

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Guest Editor

Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
Interests: sport; physical activity; sport statistics; training monitoring; testing; exercise prescription; rate of perceived exertion; fatigue; sport biomechanics; human balance; proprioception; postural control
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The current research shows a positive association between sports participation and people’s health status. All types of physically demanding sport, competitive or not, offer measurable health gains for men and women of all ages. However, competitive sports demand numerous sacrifices from athletes to achieve an optimal performance, which comes at a high price: injuries, recurrent fatigue, and mental issues such as anxiety and frustration. Also, retired athletes have numerous health issues following stressful competitions and training. Therefore, both health and performance should be seen as foundations in the development of a healthy and high-performing athlete. These studies collectively underscore the significant role of sports participation in promoting both physical and mental health. Also, to reach optimal performance and attain health benefits of sports participation, coaches and athletes have to possess high levels of health and physical literacy. In other words, knowing about the positive health benefits of sports and physical activity and how to achieve them have gained interest. Therefore, we invite researchers to submit papers related to performance and health in sports.

Dr. Barbara Gilic
Dr. Andrea Fusco
Guest Editors

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Keywords

sports performance
performance indicators
well-being
healthy lifestyle
health literacy
physical literacy
lifestyle medicine

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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10 pages, 406 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Exercise and Pomegranate–Black Carrot Juice Interventions on Mineral Metabolism and Fatty Acids

by Kenan Bozbay, Vedat Çinar, Taner Akbulut, Isa Aydemir, Yavuz Yasul, Kursat Yusuf Aytac, Ahmet Ozkaya, Luca Russo, Andrea Fusco and Gian Mario Migliaccio

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7284; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167284 - 19 Aug 2024

Viewed by 462

Abstract

In this study, the effects of exercise applied to sedentary individuals and the use of pomegranate–black carrot juice on minerals, fatty acids and some biochemical parameters were examined. Twenty healthy sedentary men participated in this study. This research consisted of three stages. Blood samples were taken from the participants before this study (Baseline), after the participants exercised (60 min/day) for 10 days (Exercise_only), after the participants were given pomegranate–black carrot juice mixture (100 mL/100 mL) along with exercise (60 min/day) for 10 days (Exercise_+supp). While AST and ALT levels increased in the Exercise_only phase, they showed a relative decrease in the Exercise_+supp phase. It was determined that Mg level in the Exercise_only phase decreased compared to the Baseline and the Exercise_+supp phase. It was determined that the Zn level in the Exercise_+supp phase increased compared to the Zn level in the Exercise_only phase. It was determined that 6:0, 12:0 and 14:0 fatty acid levels increased in the Exercise_only phase compared to the Baseline. A decrease was detected in the Exercise_only phase compared to the Baseline 18:2n6c, 18:3n6 and 18:3n3 fatty acid levels. It can be said that exercise and the use of pomegranate–black carrot juice mixture in sedentary individuals have supportive and corrective effects on serum mineral, fatty acids and some biochemical parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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12 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceptions and Practices of Accredited Tennis Coaches When Teaching Foundational Grip Development

by Nicholas A. Busuttil, Alexandra H. Roberts, Marcus Dunn, Minh Hyunh and Kane J. Middleton

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7127; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167127 - 14 Aug 2024

Viewed by 413

Abstract

This study aimed to understand how tennis coaches perceive and approach the development of grip positions, a foundational skill in tennis. Professionally accredited coaches, classed as less (n = 140) or more (n = 86) experienced, participated in an online survey where they provided their perspectives on the importance of developing grip positions and their opinions on using physically constraining tools for coaching. Irrespective of coach experience level, the findings revealed that technique development and grip position training were ranked as the two most important components in foundational tennis skill development. The Semi-western grip for forehand (less: 68%; more: 65%), a combination of Continental and Eastern grips for double-handed backhand (less: 59%; more: 48.8%), and the Continental grip for serves (both: 94%) were identified as the most commonly taught positions for different shots. Perceived barriers to developing grip positions were out of habit (less: 62%; more: 56%), discomfort (less: 58%; more: 50%), and lack of confidence (less: 44%; more: 21%). Notably, 65% of coaches expressed an openness to incorporating physically constraining tools to enhance grip-specific skill development. Overall, this study serves as a foundational resource, guiding coaches in optimising their strategies for foundational tennis development, prompting further research in this area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

13 pages, 687 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Probability of Winning a Point in Men’s Padel: A Comprehensive Analysis

by Iván Prieto-Lage, Xoana Reguera-López-de-la-Osa, Nicolás Durán-Rodríguez, Antonio José Silva-Pinto, Juan Carlos Argibay-González and Alfonso Gutiérrez-Santiago

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6642; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156642 - 30 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Background—The number of studies on padel has grown significantly in recent years, reflecting the growing importance of the sport. However, more research is still needed on a comprehensive analysis of performance indicators. This study had a double objective: on the one hand, to analyze the probability of winning a point as a function of several variables and, on the other hand, to develop a match analysis. Methods—A total of 980 points from the Menorca 2020 World Padel Tour Master Final Men’s category were examined using observational methodology. The participants were the eight pairs who competed in the final rounds of the tournament. To obtain the results, various analytical techniques were used, such as descriptive analysis and the chi-square test, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results—The results indicated that most points were initiated on the first serve (88.5%) and were most often won by the serving pair (59.3%). Short rallies predominated (42.2%), with the serving pair most likely to win the point (71%). As the rally became longer, the probability of winning the point decreased, reaching 57% for medium rallies and 47% for long rallies. Almost half of the points were completed in less than 10 s, with an average point duration of 15 s. Most points were finished from the middle area and near the net (41.4% and 36%, respectively), mainly by smashes (25.9%) or volleys (28.9%), with the cross-court trajectory being the most effective. Conclusions—Short rallies (0–6 shots) were the most common, with an average point duration of approximately 15 s. Most points ended with a shot from the middle of the court, using a volley or a smash with a cross-court trajectory. There is a clear relationship between proximity to the net on the final shot and an increased probability of winning the point. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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10 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sport and Physical Activity Participation by Weight Groups in School-Aged Hungarian Children

by Martina Uvacsek, Bernadett Wágner and Georgina Simkó

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6575; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156575 - 27 Jul 2024

Viewed by 708

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare physical activity and organized sport participation survey data between different weight classifications in children. In the cross-sectional online data collection, 677 parents (42.8 ± 6.4 years old) provided information about 677 children (10.9 ± 2.5 years old). On average, 77% of the children achieved 60 min of MVPA/day and 63% participated in a club or organized sport. Most of them (63%) were in the healthy weight category, 14% of the children were underweight, and 22% of the children were overweight or obese. The parental support for physical activity was 83%. Club or organized sport participation (OR = 0.56 CI: 0.34–0.91; p < 0.02) and a parent with a higher educational level (OR = 0.25 CI:0.14–0.43; p < 0.01) were found to be preventive for obesity. Football was the most popular and highly chosen sport activity. Regarding sport activities with parents, cycling, walking, and football were the most popular, independently of the weight classification of the child. The overweight and obese children had almost the same participation rate in sport activities than others. Increased physical activity might be explained by the daily physical education in schools and governmental support. Further studies and measures are needed to prevent overweight and obesity in children of parents with a lower educational level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

12 pages, 1792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Rowing on Cardiac Function in Breast Cancer Survivors: Sliding Seat Rowing vs. Fixed Seat Rowing

by Juan Gavala-González, Mateo Real-Pérez, Juan Gamboa-González and José Carlos Fernández-García

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(14), 6239; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14146239 - 18 Jul 2024

Viewed by 603

Abstract

This longitudinal study aimed to analyze the effects of a team rowing-based training program on physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in female breast cancer survivors (n = 40; 56.78 ± 6.38 years). Participants were divided into two groups: one rowed in fixed seat rowing (FSR) boats (n = 20; 56.35 ± 4.89 years) and the other in sliding seat rowing (SSR) boats (n = 20; 57.20 ± 7.7 years). Both groups engaged in two 75-min sessions per week for 24 weeks. Significant improvements were observed in both groups in resting heart rate (FSR: −10.65 bpm; SSR: −8.45 bpm), heart rate at the beginning of the 6-min walk test (6 MWT) (FSR: −10.7 bpm; SSR: −11.25 bpm), and heart rate at the end of the test (FSR: −13.85 bpm; SSR: −20.35 bpm). Blood pressure improved significantly in both diastolic blood pressure (FSR: −12.35 mmHg; SSR: −19.25 mmHg) and systolic blood pressure (FSR: −13 mmHg; SSR: −16.95 mmHg). Additionally, both groups increased the distance covered in the 6 MWT (FSR: +63.05 m; SSR: +93.65 m). These results suggest that a rowing training program is a viable and safe activity for female breast cancer survivors, improving cardiac function, blood pressure, and cardiorespiratory capacity, particularly in sliding seat boats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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8 pages, 228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anthropometric Parameters and Body Composition in Elite Lead Climbers and Boulderers—A Retrospective Study

by Agata Ginszt, Grzegorz Zieliński, Aleksandra Dolina, Estera Stachyra, Monika Zaborek-Łyczba, Jakub Łyczba, Piotr Gawda and Michał Ginszt

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5603; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135603 - 27 Jun 2024

Viewed by 483

Abstract

Based on previous research studies and systematic reviews, success in sport climbing seems to be determined by variables such as strength, power, or endurance. However, besides strength-endurance parameters, several other factors may influence the performance of sports climbing. Moreover, there is a lack of research assessing differences in body composition and anthropometric parameters between lead climbing and bouldering—the two most common sport climbing subdisciplines. The presented research analyzed the connection between body mass, body height, body mass index, and the best result in sport climbing among male lead climbers and boulderers. Additionally, we investigated differences in starting climbing age and climbing experience in both climbing subdisciplines. We analyzed 422 male sport climbers’ profiles in two categories: “Route Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for lead climbers and “Boulder Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for boulderers based on the 8a.nu world ranking website. The results showed that the “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers had lower body mass and lower body height. These differences were also observed between “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers. The “Higher Elite” group started climbing at a younger age and had a more extended period to achieve the most challenging route than “Elite” climbers in both subdisciplines. Our results suggest that lower body mass and lower body height can be key factors in lead climbing performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

17 pages, 1776 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Cardiorespiratory and Metabolic Parameters on Match Running Performance (MRP) in National-Level Football Players: A Multiple Regression Analysis

by Radivoje Radaković, Borko Katanić, Mima Stanković, Bojan Masanovic and Suzana Žilić Fišer

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3807; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093807 - 29 Apr 2024

Viewed by 929

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine the association between cardiorespiratory and metabolic parameters and match running performance (MRP) in highly trained football players. The sample of participants consisted of 41 national-level football players (aged 23.20 ± 3.40 years, body height 182.00 ± 5.15 cm, and body mass 76.86 ± 6.06 kg) from the Serbian Super league. For the purposes of this research, the following measurements were applied. A maximal multistage progressive treadmill test, with a direct measurement of maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max) (using Fitmate MED, Cosmed, Rome, Italy) was conducted, alongside continuous heart rate monitoring. Capillary blood samples were taken from the hyperemic area using specific test strips, and, after sample collection, lactate concentration was immediately determined using a lactate analyzer. MRP variables were analyzed according to the BioIRC model of motion structure analysis, based on existing standards for profiling movement intensity. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated an association between cardiac parameters and total distance (R2 = 54.3%, p = 0.000), high-speed running (R2 = 46.4%, p = 0.000), and jogging (R2 = 33.6%, p = 0.004). Regression analysis revealed an association between cardiorespiratory parameters and total distance (R2 = 24.8%, p = 0.014), and high-speed running (R2 = 20%, p = 0.039). Meanwhile, no association was found between lactate concentration and running performance. The explanation for these regression analysis results is based on the observation that functional abilities represent significant potential for expressing movement performance, a crucial condition for success in football. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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12 pages, 2099 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Specific Training Using a Rowing Ergometer on Sport Performance in Adolescents

by Juan Gavala-González, Mª Elena Porras-García, José Carlos Fernández-García and Mateo Real-Pérez

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3180; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083180 - 10 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2416

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to study the effects of a specific rowing ergometer training program on the athletic performance of young adolescents (N = 56; 11.73 ± 1.4 years old) compared to a workout based on general strength training. An eight-week training program was implemented, with four sessions per week and two hours per session. The sample was divided into two groups: a control group (CG) that performed circuit training with exercises aimed at building general strength and an experimental group (EG) who focused on specifically training on a rowing ergometer (rowing machine). The data obtained in a rowing meter test over the competition distance were analyzed to obtain the average power attained (W) at the beginning of the training, at the middle (4 weeks), at the end of the training (8 weeks) and one year after the experimentation. The results show that although both forms of training improve the average W obtained in both categories, the EG subjects (+29.94 W) obtained better averages in all phases of the study compared to the CG (+5.88 W). Furthermore, this increase was greater in male rowers (+34.06 W) than in female rowers (+24.54 W). These results reveal that a specific rower rowing ergometer training program has a more significant effect than a general strength program and these effects can even be observed a year after the intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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Review

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14 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessReview

Boost Your Brainpower: 24 Daily Sleep Hacks for Active Lifestyles

by Gian Mario Migliaccio, Gloria Di Filippo, Federica Sancassiani, Johnny Padulo and Luca Russo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6701; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156701 - 31 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2491

Abstract

Sleep is a fundamental biological process that plays a pivotal role in the health and performance of physically active individuals (PAI). Sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can negatively impact recovery capacity, concentration, coordination, and muscular strength, thereby compromising physical performance and increasing the risk of injuries. Objectives: This narrative literature review aims to examine the scientific evidence on the importance of sleep hygiene for the health and performance of PAI. A search was conducted for studies published on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies that investigated the effect of sleep hygiene on health and performance variables in athletes were included. The literature analysis highlighted that good sleep hygiene, adequate sleep duration (7–9 h per night), high sleep quality, and a regular sleep routine are associated with a range of benefits for the health and performance of PAI, including: (1) improved post-training recovery; (2) reduced risk of injuries; (3) enhanced concentration and attention; (4) improved coordination and muscle strength; (5) better mood and mental well-being; (6) reduced risk of chronic diseases. Sleep hygiene is a key factor for the health and performance of PAI. Implementing a comprehensive and personalized sleep hygiene routine can lead to significant improvements in the quality and quantity of sleep, with positive effects on physical and mental health, and overall well-being of PAI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

20 pages, 783 KiB

Open AccessReview

Analyses of Physical and Physiological Responses during Competition in Para-Footballers with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

by Santiago Álvarez-Hernández, Daniel Castillo, José Gerardo Villa-Vicente, Javier Yanci, Diego Marqués-Jiménez and Alejandro Rodríguez-Fernández

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3812; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093812 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 628

Abstract

Background: Classification of athletes in cerebral palsy (CP) football is a key action that aims to promote the participation of all players by minimizing the impact of their physical disabilities on the outcome of the competition by establishing sports classes. As such, a new research line has been included in the classification process at an international level; that is, the analysis of locomotor demands during competition helps classifiers to understand the para-footballers’ profile. Therefore, the main aim of this systematic review was to summarize the physical and physiological responses of players with CP in different sport classes during competition. Methods: A bibliographic search was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web Of Science databases following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using the PICOS strategy. Results: Six studies meeting inclusion criteria analyzing physical (i.e., total distances, distances at different speeds, high-intensity and short-term actions, change of directions, etc.) and physiological (heart rate (HR), time spent at different zones of maximum HR, etc.) responses. Findings revealed that para-footballers with CP and minimal impairment impact covered greater total and distance above 23.04 km·h⁻¹ and achieved higher maximum speeds during match-play. Notably, no significant differences in physiological responses were observed based on classification. Conclusions: The research suggests that para-footballers with CP and lower physical impairment may exhibit enhanced performance in terms of distance covered and speed during gameplay, highlighting their potential competence in the sport. In addition, the limited number of studies examining the physiological response of para-footballers prevents conclusive results and differentiating between classification groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise)

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