Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Sports Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition

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

A special issue of Sports (ISSN 2075-4663).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 4933

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Andrea Fusco

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara Viale Abruzzo, 322, 66100 Chieti, Italy
Interests: sport; fatigue; training monitoring; team sports; performance; physical activity; testing; motor control; proprioception; rate of perceived exertion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Alessandra Amato

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia No 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
Interests: performance; training; sport; body composition; adapted physical activity
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Cristina Cortis

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, Viale dell’Università, 03043 Cassino, Italy
Interests: sport performance; performance analysis; fitness assessment; recovery and stress; determinants of physical activity; dual career in athletes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The physiological and psychological needs of a young athlete are different from those of an older athlete who is already established in a specific sport.

As the age of sports specialization and professional sports recruitment appears to be lowering, more research is needed in relation to training and testing specific young athletes in specific disciplines. Exercise testing in cohorts of younger athletes is critical in safety and injury prevention and to improve long-term health. This awareness can guide coaches and trainers toward effective and balanced training strategies to promote performance, early talent identification, and long-term success. This Special Issue will provide a snapshot of the management of young athletes through adaptable and specific training, testing, and early specialization in the sports world. Contributions may also highlight current testing and training strategies specifically designed to improve young athletes’ sports techniques and sports conditioning. We invite contributions by experts in the field in the form of research papers and critical reviews, to advance our understanding of this complex issue.

Dr. Andrea Fusco
Dr. Alessandra Amato
Prof. Dr. Cristina Cortis
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 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

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. Sports is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 1800 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

young athletes
sports specialization
training
testing
performance
injury prevention
talent identification
early specialization

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.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

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

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

10 pages, 317 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Anthropometric and Physical Performance Profiles in Elite Judo and Jiu-Jitsu Athletes

by Artur Avelino Birk Preissler, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Marcela Zimmermann Casal, Rui Miguel Silva, Ana Filipa Silva, João Vitor Silveira and Pedro Schons

Sports 2026, 14(5), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14050207 - 18 May 2026

Viewed by 202

Abstract

Combat-sport performance depends on the interaction between technical skills and physical capacities, yet direct comparisons between grappling disciplines remain limited. The aim of this study was to compare the anthropometric profile and physical performance of elite judo and jiu-jitsu athletes. This cross-sectional study included 25 elite male athletes (judo—n = 12; jiu-jitsu—n = 13) assessed during a preparatory training phase. Anthropometric measures included age, training experience, height, and body mass, while physical performance was evaluated using dominant and non-dominant handgrip strength, squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), medicine ball throw with and without countermovement, and dynamic and isometric judogi-grip pull-up tests. Between-group comparisons were performed using independent sample tests, with effect sizes (ES) calculated. Judo athletes had greater training experience (13.25 ± 2.73 vs. 7.85 ± 4.36 years; p = 0.001; ES = 1.472) and higher SJ performance (38.71 ± 6.69 vs. 33.82 ± 4.74 cm; p = 0.045; ES = 0.850) compared to jiu-jitsu athletes. No significant between-group differences were observed for the remaining variables (p > 0.05). These findings indicate that no statistically significant differences were detected in most anthropometric and physical performance variables between elite judo and jiu-jitsu athletes, and the initially higher squat jump performance observed in judo athletes was no longer statistically significant after adjustment for training experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 424 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Fitness and External Training Load Represent Distinct Dimensions of Performance in Female Football Players During the Pre-Season

by Artur Avelino Birk Preissler, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Ewerton Luiz Bourscheid da Rocha, Rui Miguel Silva, Ana Filipa Silva, Jocelito Bijoldo Martins and Pedro Schons

Sports 2026, 14(5), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14050206 - 18 May 2026

Viewed by 175

Abstract

Monitoring performance in football often combines physical testing and GPS-derived external-load measures, although their relationships remain unclear. This study examined the relationships between physical-test outcomes and GPS-derived external-load variables during the pre-season in professional female football players and whether these measures appear to capture distinct dimensions of performance. This observational study monitored 24 outfield players from a Brazilian Women’s First Division team during a 6-week pre-season. Players performed the countermovement jump, 10 m and 30 m sprints, change-of-direction test, and 30–15 intermittent fitness test while external load was recorded across field sessions. Associations were examined using Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlations, and principal component analysis (PCA) was applied. Significant correlations were more frequent within than between domains. Total distance correlated with accelerations (ρ = 0.740, p < 0.001), decelerations (ρ = 0.684, p < 0.001), Z3 distance (ρ = 0.595, p = 0.003), and Z4 distance (ρ = 0.584, p = 0.003), while sprint count correlated with sprint distance (r = 0.950, p < 0.001). Estimated VO₂max correlated positively with CMJ (r = 0.533, p = 0.007) and negatively with 10 m (r = −0.445, p = 0.029) and 30 m sprint times (r = −0.476, p = 0.019). PCA identified two components explaining 61.4% of the total variance: external load (40.6%) and physical performance (20.8%). These findings indicate that both approaches capture distinct and complementary aspects of performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rethinking Warm-Up in Overhead Exercise: Acute Shoulder Responses to a Strength- and Mobility-Oriented Protocol in Youth Athletes

by Andrea Pagliaro, Alessia Boatta, Anna Alioto, Roberta Cottone, Domenico Nuzzo, Pasquale Picone, Cristina Cortis, Andrea Fusco, Magdalena Dzitkowska-Zabielska, Giuseppe Messina and Patrizia Proia

Sports 2026, 14(5), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14050203 - 15 May 2026

Viewed by 524

Abstract

Overhead sports place high demands on the shoulder complex, making warm-up specificity relevant for acute readiness. This randomized controlled pilot trial compared the immediate effects of a shoulder-specific warm-up with a habitual routine in 24 youth competitive overhead athletes (14–20 years), allocated to an experimental group (EG = 12) and a habitual warm-up group (SWG = 12). The warm-up protocol was administered bilaterally to both shoulders, whereas outcome measurements were collected unilaterally, with each shoulder tested separately. Assessments were performed before and immediately after the warm-up protocol. Outcome measures included shoulder flexion range of motion (ROM), handgrip strength, Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability (CKCUES) performance, and post-warm-up Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE; Borg CR-10). A significant group-by-time interaction was found for right shoulder flexion ROM (p = 0.003, η²p = 0.346), with a significant increase in the EG from baseline to post-test (p = 0.008). No significant effects were observed for left shoulder flexion ROM, handgrip strength, or CKCUES performance. Post-warm-up RPE was statistically significant in the EG compared to the SWG (p = 0.041). These preliminary findings may suggest the potential practical value of more targeted warm-up strategies in overhead sports, while larger longitudinal studies are needed to confirm their broader functional relevance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 379 KB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Effects of Plantar Proprioceptive Training on Dynamic Balance and Ankle Range of Motion: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

by Alberto Canzone, Jessica Brusa, Valerio Giustino, Francesco Martines, Pietro Salvago, Simona Pajaujiene, Antonino Patti, Daniele Zangla, Giuseppe Messina, Elvira Padua and Antonino Bianco

Sports 2026, 14(5), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14050180 - 1 May 2026

Viewed by 545

Abstract

Background: An important role in postural control is played by the plantar proprioceptive inputs, as they contribute to the sensorimotor integration of the Tonic Postural System (TPS). Although plantar stimulation is an excellent strategy for improving balance, evidence remains limited. Therefore, the aim of this pilot study was to examine the acute effects of plantar proprioceptive training on dynamic balance performance and ankle range of motion (ROM). Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 26 physically active young adults were divided into an experimental group (EG; n = 13) and a control group (CG; n = 13). The EG performed plantar proprioceptive training including walking on a reflexology mat and balance exercises on a proprioceptive pad. The CG remained lying supine on a couch for the same amount of time as the experimental intervention. The Y-Balance Test (YBT) was used to assess dynamic balance, while the ankle ROM (i.e., dorsiflexion and plantarflexion) was measured using an inertial sensor. All measurements were taken before (T0) and immediately after (T1) the experimental or control condition. Results: Improvements in the YBT were found in the EG from T0 to T1 for both right (p = 0.002; SE = 1.24) and left (p = 0.015) foot, but no changes from T0 to T1 were observed in the CG for both right and left foot (p > 0.05). No changes were observed for ankle ROM in both groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that plantar proprioceptive training can provide acute improvements in dynamic balance with no significant changes in ankle ROM. The findings support a potential role of plantar stimulation in postural control mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1058 KB

Open AccessArticle

Construction and Validation of a Specific Balance Test for Rhythmic Gymnasts: A Pilot Study

by Rebeka Stojkovic, Ivan Peric, Zvonimir Tomac, Hrvoje Ajman and Zoran Spoljaric

Sports 2026, 14(5), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14050178 - 29 Apr 2026

Viewed by 406

Abstract

Background: Balance is a key ability in rhythmic gymnastics, affecting not only technical performance but also the aesthetic and expressive quality of routines. Standard tests often do not reflect the real demands of the sport, where gymnasts must simultaneously maintain stability, manipulate apparatus, and follow the musical rhythm. Therefore, there is a need for a specific test that combines motor and cognitive challenges to provide a precise and reliable assessment of athletes’ functional abilities. Methods: The study involved 12 girls with an average age of 9 years. Participants underwent anthropometric measurements and were tested using standard motor tests as well as a specific balance test for rhythmic gymnasts (BTRG). Test reliability was assessed using a test–retest procedure, and construct validity was evaluated through factor analysis in comparison with existing balance tests. Results: The BTRG demonstrated high reliability (ICC = 0.96; CV = 6.4%; SEM = 0.18) and the ability to distinguish gymnasts from different programs. Factor analysis confirmed that the BTRG effectively measures specific balance in accordance with theoretical expectations. Conclusions: The new test provides a potentially valid and reliable tool for assessing specific balance in rhythmic gymnasts and maybe useful in the training process, athlete evaluation, and talent development; however, these finding should be interpreted with caution as they are preliminary and derived from pilot study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 793 KB

Open AccessArticle

Developmental Differences in Gaze Behaviors and Performance During Basketball Free Throws in Youth Athletes

by Miaoyu Han, Carlos D. Gómez-Carmona, Daniele Conte and Jorge Lorenzo Calvo

Sports 2026, 14(3), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14030105 - 6 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 775

Abstract

(1) Background: This study investigated developmental differences in gaze behaviors and performance during basketball free throws among youth athletes. (2) Methods: Forty-six male youth basketball players (U14, U16, U18) each performed 30 standardized free throws while wearing Tobii Pro Glasses 3 to record gaze data (Quiet Eye duration and Total Fixation duration). Shooting accuracy and cognitive workload (NASA-TLX) were also collected. One-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were conducted to examine age-related differences and the relationships between gaze behavior and performance. (3) Results: Shooting accuracy was moderately correlated with chronological age (r = 0.386, p = 0.010) and training experience (r = 0.367, p = 0.010), and total fixation duration was positively associated with training experience (r = 0.338, p = 0.025). Regression analyses showed that training experience predicted total fixation duration, and both age and experience predicted shooting accuracy when considered separately (p < 0.05), but neither predicted cognitive workload (p > 0.05). Age and training experience were positively associated with shot success. (4) Conclusions: In the youth free-throw task, Quiet Eye duration and total fixation duration were highly correlated but did not independently predict shooting success, while shooting performance was more strongly associated with age and training experience, and perceived cognitive workload remained stable across age groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2664 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of a Sport-Based Training Program on Reaction Time and Fine Motor Coordination in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study

by Fabiana Laurenti, Valentina Presta, Michela Compiani, Gianni Zobbi, Barbara Ilari, Maria Pia Picchi, Eugenia Maré, Federica Severini, Alessandro Guarnieri, Salvatore Mazzei, Orsola di Martino, Giulia Pozzi, Giancarlo Condello and Giuliana Gobbi

Sports 2026, 14(2), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14020080 - 11 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1004

Abstract

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are generally less involved in physical activity and sport. Therefore, the present pilot study aimed at determining the effect of a sport-based training program on motor coordination development and functioning in children with ASD. Methods: Twenty children with ASD (age: 8.7 ± 1.6 years, 5 females) were included in a sport-based training program for 6 months. Participants were free to select their own sport discipline. Before and after the program, reaction time was evaluated using a simple (by identifying the targeted stimulus) and a complex (by discriminating the targeted stimulus among confounding signals) reactive test, while fine and gross motor coordination was assessed by transferring pennies, jumping in place (same sides synchronized), tapping feet and fingers (same side synchronized), and the Flamingo test. Results: The analysis showed a significant reduction (p = 0.016, d = 0.16) in complex reactive test (pre: 15.8 ± 14.8 s; post: 13.6 ± 11.1 s) and a significant improvement in transferring pennies test (pre: 6.3 ± 3.4 pt.; post: 7.8 ± 3.8 pt.; p = 0.034, d = 0.42). Furthermore, two of the low-functioning children, who did not perform any motor test before the program, were able to complete both reactive tests and transferring pennies test. No significant differences emerged for the remaining tests. Conclusions: A sport-based extra-curricular program improved reaction time and fine motor coordination in children with ASD. The complex reactive and transferring pennies tests were particularly effective in detecting changes, even in low-functioning children. These findings support the promotion of diverse physical activities to aid physical and cognitive development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sport-Specific Testing and Training Methods in Youth: 2nd Edition

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI