Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Applied Sciences Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

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 19695

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Gian Mario Migliaccio

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Rome Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
Interests: sport science; sport nutrition; sport psychology; sport physiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Luca Russo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Human Sciences, Università Telematica degli Studi IUL, 50122 Florence, Italy
Interests: mechanics; physiology; sports medicine; podiatry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The interest in sports science, exercise, and health is continuously growing, now encompassing a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines. Initially centred around physiology and medicine, this attention has expanded its horizons to involve a multitude of sectors.

In particular, sports performance analysis has gained enormous visibility in the last decade, with significant implications not only in the sporting realm but also in broader areas of general exercise science and public health. The advent of new technologies, sports analytics, and wearable devices has further enhanced this field, providing new evidence that benefits not only athletes but also a much wider population.

With this Special Issue, we aim to share the latest advances in this fascinating field, offering a platform where academic and industrial experts can discuss and identify solutions to emerging problems. Potential topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

The reliability and validity in data measurement in performance analysis, extendable to the field of health.
The use of sports performance indicators applied to health prevention.
The introduction of new technologies to monitor adherence to international guidelines on physical activity.
The optimisation of sports equipment to improve performance, with applications in both the sporting and health prevention realms.
The integration of related areas such as nutrition to enhance benefits to a broader audience.
Innovations in monitoring performance, health, and workload.

We count on your valuable collaboration and participation in this Special Issue.

Best regards,

Dr. Gian Mario Migliaccio
Dr. Luca Russo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

sports science
exercise
public health
performance analysis
health prevention
wearable devices
sports analytics
physical activity
sports nutrition

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (11 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

10 pages, 1568 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Hip Adduction and Abduction Forward Lunge on Muscle Activity and Center of Pressure in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot Study

by Xing-Han Zhou, Xin Yan, Qiu-Shuo Tian and Tae-Ho Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 11564; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142411564 - 11 Dec 2024

Abstract

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) ranks among the most prevalent factors causing anterior knee pain. Quadriceps exercises such as forward lunges are important to treat PFPS. Aim: We investigated whether there is a difference in muscle activity between the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles and the center of pressure (CoP) among three hip positions, namely, hip adduction forward lunge (HADF), hip neutral forward lunge (HNEF), and hip abduction forward lunge (HABF), in healthy subjects. Method: This was a randomized controlled pilot study that included twenty healthy (age: 23.7 ± 2.51) volunteers. The CoP was measured using a “Wii Balance Board” from Nintendo, and VMO and VL muscle activity were measured via wireless surface electromyography. Results: The CoP outcomes showed significant differences among the three positions in terms of position (p < 0.001), sum distance (p < 0.001), range (p < 0.001), and max distance (p < 0.001). VMO (p < 0.000), and VL (p < 0.005) muscle activity and the ratio of VMO/VL (p < 0.000) significantly differed among the three positions. Conclusions: Although VMO and VL muscle activity increased in the HADF and HABF, excessive changes in the CoP occurred in the two positions. The change in the CoP during the HADF and HABF may result in valgus, varus, and loading of the knee joint, which may worsen PFPS. The HNEF is recommended for quadriceps strengthening in healthy subjects and PFPS patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 831 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Sport-Specific Practice on Health-Related Physical Fitness Components in Young Water Polo and Volleyball Athletes

by Francesco Sgrò, Michele Barca, Federico Mollame, Francesca Orofino, Antonella Quinto and David Stodden

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(20), 9316; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14209316 - 12 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1158

Abstract

Physical fitness (PF) has been identified as a critical health marker in youth and is significantly influenced by environmental factors, such as the specificity of training involved in different sports. This study investigated PF differences among young athletes who participated in water polo and volleyball to understand how different training programs and environments impact physical development. A sample of 98 youth athletes, including 46 water polo players (46% female; mean age: 13.07 ± 2.27 years) and 52 volleyball players (100% female; mean age: 13.80 ± 1.86 years) was assessed using Handgrip (HG), Standing Long Jump (SLJ), and Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) tests. Results were normalized against European percentile reference values and analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test. The PACER test revealed a significant difference (U = 639, p < 0.001, r = −0.466), with water polo athletes exhibiting superior cardiorespiratory fitness compared to volleyball players. The HG test also showed significant differences (U = 1571, p = 0.007, r = 0.314), indicating greater grip strength in volleyball players. No significant difference was observed in the SLJ test. These findings underscore the importance of sport-specific training in youth athletes, but also the importance of well-rounded physical development training for all youth sports. Results suggest that practicing different sports that involve different training and environments is significantly associated with certain aspects of PF components. This awareness can guide grassroots coaches and trainers towards effective and balanced training strategies to promote performance and long-term health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between the Reliability of Tennis-Specific Change of Direction (77COD) Test and Squat Jump–Countermovement Jump in Adolescent Tennis Players

by Selman Kaya, Aysu Önal and Gökhan Deliceoğlu

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(20), 9266; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14209266 - 11 Oct 2024

Viewed by 797

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of the tennis-specific change of direction (77COD) test with vertical jump tests (Squat Jump and Countermovement Jump) in adolescent tennis players. A total of 58 athletes (31 girls, 27 boys) actively playing tennis, with an average age of 10.57 ± 2.54 years, participated in the study. Tests and retests were completed within 2 weeks. Bland–Altman (B&A) plots were established and Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted on the 77COD, CMJ, and SJ tests. Simple linear regression analysis (enter method) was used to determine the significant predictors of the 77COD variable from the SJ-CMJ variables. The SJ and CMJ were found to be highly negatively correlated with the 77COD test (−0.72 ≤ r ≤ −0.74). The test–retest reliability of the 77COD test was found to be very high, with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.95. Our findings showed that the 77COD test is suitable for determining COD ability in adolescent tennis players. In addition, vertical jump heights are an informative and practical performance indicator for 77COD. In conclusion, the 77COD test is a COD test that can be used in coaching practices without the need for complex testing materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Respiratory Muscle Strength as a Predictor of VO2max and Aerobic Endurance in Competitive Athletes

by Gökhan Deliceoğlu, Banu Kabak, Veli O. Çakır, Halil İbrahim Ceylan, Muntean Raul-Ioan, Dan Iulian Alexe and Valentina Stefanica

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(19), 8976; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14198976 - 5 Oct 2024

Viewed by 2869

Abstract

This study explores the association of respiratory muscle strength with aerobic endurance kinetics among athletes, with a specific focus on maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max). Previous research has elucidated the complex interactions between respiratory and skeletal muscles during exercise, highlighting the critical role of efficient respiration in maximizing athletic performance. The interplay between active skeletal muscles and respiratory muscles, especially the influence of respiratory muscle fatigue on exercise capacity, is well-documented. High-intensity exercise has been shown to activate the respiratory muscle metaboreflex, which can restrict blood flow to working muscles, thereby impacting the energy required for respiration. A total of 41 athletes, drawn from the disciplines of biathlon, judo, and cross-country, participated in this study. Respiratory function tests (RFTs) were administered to assess various respiratory parameters, including changes in chest circumference. Additionally, maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max) and heart rate were measured during a treadmill test. To explore the associations between VO2max and ventilatory parameters—namely, ventilation (VE), oxygen consumption (VO₂), carbon dioxide production (VCO₂)—as well as respiratory metrics, linear regression analysis was employed. Based on the standardized regression coefficients (β), it was found that maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) (mean ± SD: 130.95 ± 42.82) and inspiratory diaphragmatic circumference values were significantly associated with VE, VO₂, and VCO₂. Conversely, the other predictor variables did not exhibit a significant effect on VE (mean ± SD: 134.80 ± 36.69), VO₂ (mean ± SD: 3877.52 ± 868.47 mL), and VCO₂ (mean ± SD: 4301.27 ± 1001.07 mL). Similarly, measurements of chest circumference (mean ± SD: 91.40 ± 10.72 cm), MEP, and diaphragmatic circumference during inspiration (mean ± SD: 95.20 ± 10.21 cm) were significantly associated with VO₂max (mean ± SD: 58.52 ± 10.74 mL/kg/min), while the remaining predictor variables did not demonstrate a significant effect on VO₂max. Additionally, a multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the combined effects of respiratory muscle strength and ventilatory factors on VO₂max. The model, which included interaction terms, explained 89.9% of the variance in VO₂max (R² = 0.899, adjusted R² = 0.859). Significant interactions were found between MIP and VE (B = −0.084, p = 0.006), as well as MEP and VE (B = 0.072, p = 0.012). These findings suggest that respiratory muscle strength plays a more substantial role in determining VO₂max in individuals with higher ventilatory efficiency, highlighting the importance of both respiratory strength and breathing efficiency in aerobic performance. Our findings underscore the importance of considering respiratory muscle strength in assessing and enhancing athletes’ aerobic performance. Integrating objective measurements such as maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure assessments into routine performance evaluations allows coaches and sports scientists to monitor changes in respiratory function over time and adjust training protocols accordingly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of the Health Status of Heart Transplant Patients with Different Levels of Physical Activity

by Itziar Salas-Reguera, José I. Rodríguez-Barbosa, Peter A. Federolf and Luis Santos

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(18), 8379; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14188379 - 18 Sep 2024

Viewed by 583

Abstract

This study’s goals were to determine the health status of a group of heart transplant recipients (HTRs) and their level of physical activity and to compare the health status among them and with a group of healthy sedentary individuals. Fifty-four HTRs and eighteen sedentary individuals (S) were assigned to four groups, according to their level of physical activity (determined with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire); patients with a low, moderate, and high level of physical activity (HTRL, HTRM, and HTRH, respectively) and S participants underwent a basic blood analysis and several tests to assess their cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and functional mobility condition and their quality of life. The S and HTRH were very similar in terms of BP, HR, and blood analysis while HTRM and HTRL differed from both S and HTRH in these parameters. Regarding the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, functional mobility, and quality of life variables assessed in this study, HTRH showed the best results across all of them, followed by S, HTRM, and HTRL. It is suggested that the weekly level of physical activity of HTRs should be high, which might help them to enhance their health and quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4655 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Penalty Kick Performance in the Spanish Football League: A Longitudinal Study

by Iván Prieto-Lage, Juan Carlos Argibay-González, Pedro Bezerra, Pablo Cidre-Fuentes, Xoana Reguera-López-de-la-Osa and Alfonso Gutiérrez-Santiago

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7046; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167046 - 11 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1686

Abstract

(1) Background: the penalty kick is an action in football that decides many matches. The aim of this research was to establish the success rate of penalty kicks in Spain between the seasons 2012/2013 and 2019/2020 considering different key performance variables. (2) Methods: A total of 941 penalty kicks were analysed from eight seasons of the first division of the Spanish men’s football league (La Liga). An observational methodology was used and, in order to obtain the results, different analytical techniques were employed: descriptive and chi square with a significance level of p < 0.05. (3) Results: The effectiveness of penalty kicks was 76.7%. Most of the penalties were taken by the home team (60.9%), with a tie on the scoreboard (44.2%) and within the last 30 min of the match (41.9%). The highest success rate was observed for balls kicked to the upper side of the goal (100%), even though the highest number of penalties were taken low, to one of the two sides of the goal (57.0%). Up to 5.6% of the penalties were not kicked inside the goal. (4) Conclusions: Effectiveness does not depend on home–visitor status, player laterality, score or remaining match time, studied independently. A loss of effectiveness is observed when the match scores of both teams are close and in critical moments of the match. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Composition and Physical Performance by Playing Position in Amateur Female Soccer Players

by Jordan Hernandez-Martinez, Joaquin Perez-Carcamo, Sebastian Canales-Canales, Bayron Coñapi-Union, Izham Cid-Calfucura, Tomás Herrera-Valenzuela, Braulio Henrique Magnani Branco and Pablo Valdés-Badilla

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5665; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135665 - 28 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1290

Abstract

This study analyzed differences in body composition, jump performance, running speed, and ball-kicking speed according to playing position in amateur female soccer players. This cross-sectional study involved 160 females distributed into groups of goalkeepers (n = 20), defenders (n = 38), midfielders (n = 52), and forwards (n = 50), with a mean age of 27.1 ± 3.23 years. They were assessed for body fat percentage (BFP), fat-free mass (FFM), squat jump, countermovement jump, drop jump (DJ), and running sprint speed for 10 m, 20 m, and 30 m, and ball-kicking speed (BKS) with both feet. Significant differences were found between groups in FFM (F_(3,96) = 17.4; p = 0.000) and BFP (F_(3,96) = 7.00; p = 0.000), with a higher FFM in midfielders with respect to goalkeepers (p = 0.00; ES = 1.77; ∆ = 27%), defenders (p = 0.00; ES = 2.14; ∆ = 26.5%), and forwards (p = 0.00; ES = 1.13; ∆ = 15.8%), and a lower BFP in midfielders with respect to goalkeepers (p = 0.00; ES = 1.41; ∆ = 26.7%) and forwards (p = 0.00; ES = 1.05; ∆ = 27%). In addition, significant differences were found between groups in DJ (F_(3,96) = 20.8; p = 0.000), with midfielders achieving greater height compared to goalkeepers (p = 0.00; ES = 1.94; ∆ = 25.1%), defenders (p = 0.00; ES = 1.59; ∆ = 19%), and forwards (p = 0.00; ES = 1.73; ∆ = 16.3%). Significant differences were found between groups in BKS for dominant (F_(3,96) = 5.84; p = 0.001) and non-dominant (F_(3,96) = 3.29; p = 0.02) feet, and these were lower in goalkeepers than defenders (p = 0.00; ES = 0.99; ∆ = 8.83%) and midfielders (p = 0.00; ES = 1.21; ∆ = 11.8%). In conclusion, midfielders presented significantly better body composition and physical performance than other playing positions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stability of Running Stride Biomechanical Parameters during Half-Marathon Race

by Javier Olaya-Cuartero, Basilio Pueo, Lamberto Villalon-Gasch and Jose M. Jimenez-Olmedo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4807; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114807 - 2 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 710

Abstract

This study explores the stability of biomechanical parameters of the running stride of male trained athletes during a half-marathon competition. Using a field-based descriptive design, eight male athletes from a local training group were monitored throughout an official half-marathon race under identical conditions, assessing biomechanical parameters including ground contact time (GCT), leg spring stiffness (LSS), vertical oscillation (VO), and stride length (SL) recorded via the Stryd Summit Power Meter. A repeated measures analysis of variance (RM ANOVA) was conducted to detect significant changes in biomechanical parameters as the race progressed. Results demonstrated minimal changes in all parameters, with no significant differences observed for GCT (F = 0.96, p = 0.38), VO (F = 0.23, p = 0.87), and SL (F = 1.07, p = 0.35), and a small (η² = 0.004) yet statistically significant difference in LSS (F = 5.52, p = 0.03) between the first and second segments, indicating that athletes were able to maintain stable biomechanical parameters throughout the race. The conclusion highlights the need for personalized training programs tailored to the unique biomechanical adaptations and demands of endurance running. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1654 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development of the Special Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fitness Test: Takedown Zone (SBJJFT-TZ), Gi Formula

by Wojciech Wąsacz, Łukasz Rydzik, Jožef Šimenko, Andrzej Kędra, Wiesław Błach and Tadeusz Ambroży

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4711; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114711 - 30 May 2024

Viewed by 966

Abstract

Background: There is a consensus among combat sports researchers regarding the important role of evaluating the comprehensive special fitness and performance of athletes. This is due to the specific structure of tasks performed in these sports as they require a comprehensive and integrated function of broadly understood physical fitness. The present study aimed to develop and check the Special Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fitness Test: Takedown Zone (SBJJFT-TZ), Gi formula’s reliability. The major task of this sport-specific tool is to illustrate the comprehensive special fitness and performance of professional Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes. Methods: The study covered 27 BJJ athletes (age in years: 25.36 ± 2.99; height: 175.04 ± 5.70 cm; weight: 76.56 ± 8.59 kg; BMI: 24.96 ± 2.30; 6.33 ± 2.51 years of training) with a high sports skill level. A coaches’ ranking of the athletes studied according to sports achievement was developed. An experimental approach to the problem was employed, with the SBJJFT-TZ assessment, including throws and specialized locomotion, performed on two dates (seven days apart). The test parameters were recorded and, using a specialized formula, an index showing comprehensive special fitness was calculated. To verify the test’s validity and reliability, using statistical procedures, the results were comparatively analyzed (Student’s t-test for the dependent variables), and the relationships between rankings were examined (Pearson’s r linear correlation). The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The analyses showed statistically significant relationships with very high strength between coach ranking and SBJJFT-TZ parameters for both dates (R = 0.73–0.88; p < 0.001). A similar trend of significant correlations was noted between the first and second SBJJFT-TZ dates (R = 0.96–0.98; p < 0.001), and the strength of the coexistence was almost complete. The test-retest procedure for SBJJFT-TZ showed similar levels for the parameters studied, without significant variation (p > 0.05) but with a weak effect profile (d = 0.03–0.06). Internal variation in the variables was very low (HR CV < 10%) and moderate (Throws and Index CV = 20.82–32.25%). Significantly different throwing performance between sets was shown, with an advantage in the first round of work compared to the second, and a moderate effect (p < 0.05; d = 0.38–0.39). Conclusions: The identification of relationships, the comparison, and the test-retest procedure showed the high application value of SBJJFT-TZ. The proposed tool provides a reliable cross-sectional evaluation of BJJ athletes’ special fitness and performance in the stand-up fighting plane, as well as at the moment of achieving an advantage over the opponent, and favors implementation in field conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Agility in Pre-Adolescent Basketball: A Comparative Analysis of CODAT, IAT, and RAT

by Gökhan Deliceoğlu, Okan İbiş and Erkan Tortu

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3815; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093815 - 29 Apr 2024

Viewed by 974

Abstract

Background: In basketball, agility is essential, characterized by the ability to change direction swiftly and accelerate. Traditional tests like the Illinois Agility Test (IAT) and the Reactive Agility Test (RAT) may not fully capture the agility demands specific to basketball. Purpose: This study aimed to introduce the Change of Direction and Acceleration Test (CODAT), designed specifically for young basketball players. It evaluates CODAT’s effectiveness by comparing it with IAT and RAT through comprehensive analysis. Methods: We assessed 87 pre-adolescent male basketball players, aged 9 to 13 years, with an average biological age of 11.2 years and an average estimated Peak Height Velocity (PHV) of 12.5 ± 0.5 years, using CODAT, IAT, and RAT. We employed regression analysis and the Bland–Altman method to determine CODAT’s reliability and validity. Results: The findings indicate that CODAT offers superior reliability and validity in measuring basketball-specific agility. Consistent scores highlight its potential as an effective tool for agility assessment in basketball training and talent identification. Conclusions: CODAT represents a significant advancement in agility assessment for young basketball players, advocating for its integration into sports science practices to better address the specialized demands of basketball agility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

15 pages, 757 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Wearable Technologies on Marginal Gains in Sports Performance: An Integrative Overview on Advances in Sports, Exercise, and Health

by Gian Mario Migliaccio, Johnny Padulo and Luca Russo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6649; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156649 - 30 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6662

Abstract

Wearable technologies have become increasingly popular in recent years, as athletes and coaches look for ways to gain a competitive edge. These devices can track a variety of metrics, including heart rate, sleep quality, and movement patterns. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and make small, incremental changes that can lead to significant gains in performance. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an integrative overview of the literature on the impact of wearable technologies on marginal gains in sports performance. The literature review was conducted using the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases, and a total of 55 papers were considered eligible. The results of the literature overview suggest that wearable devices can be classified into three main categories. (1) Location-based wearables (LBW) track an athlete’s location and movement, which can be used to analyze training patterns and identify potential injury risks. (2) Biometric wearables (BMW) track physiological data such as heart rate, sleep quality, and body temperature; these data can be used to monitor an athlete’s fitness levels and identify signs of overtraining. (3) Performance wearables (PMW) track performance metrics such as power output, speed, and distance; this information can be used to optimize training programs and track progress over time. For each category, this paper provides the five most important data points measured by each suggested device. Additionally, sport-specific examples are provided for each category based on the literature data. The limitations of wearable devices, such as accuracy, validity, reliability, interpretability, and cost, are also discussed. However, despite these limitations, the results of the literature review suggest that wearable technologies can be a valuable tool for athletes and coaches who are looking to improve performance. Ultimately, this technological evolution in sports science is likely to dramatically change the state of the art in athletic monitoring and sports analytics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advances in Sports, Exercise and Health

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (11 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI