Search Results (319)

Background: Physical activity (PA) plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life (QoL) in older people, particularly by enhancing their balance and movement coordination. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of sensorimotor training intervention in older adults. Methods: A total of 90 participants, divided into a Control Group (n = 44) and Experimental Group (n = 46) were involved in a 24-week sensorimotor training program. The physical capacities of the participants were assessed both before and after the intervention program. Strength and flexibility were measured using the “Rikli and Jones” protocol (1999), while agility and speed were assessed through “Timed-up-and-go” tests. Taking into account the participants’ gender, a descriptive analysis of the sample was conducted to describe the data using the mean and standard deviation. Student’s T test was performed to compare the differences between the groups according to the first and second data collection moments (before and after the intervention). Jamovi software (v. 2.5.2.0) was used to develop the statistical analysis, using a p-value of less than 0.05 to assess the statistical significance. Results: The Experimental Group showed significant improvements across all the analyzed variables following the intervention (p < 0.005), indicating substantial gains in physical capacities. In contrast, the Control Group in the “sitting and reaching” test did not show a significant difference between the groups highlighting the lack of improvement without intervention. According to the effect size of the sample, it was observed that the parameters “reach behind your back (right)” and “reach behind your back (left)” showed the highest effect size comparing the Control Group and Experimental Group (ES: 0.60, 0.71). Conclusions: The findings highlight the practical clinical impact of implementing tailored physical activity programs for older adults. Such interventions are critical for enhancing QoL, reducing the risk of falls, injuries, and chronic illnesses, and promoting overall health, independence, and well-being. Integrating sensorimotor training into the routine care for older people can support healthy aging and functional independence. Full article

Adopting innovative, systematically structured, and sustainable human resource management (SHRM) practices is essential for enhancing logistics agility and deriving sustainable development in logistics operations. This study examines the influence of sustainable human resources management practices on logistics agility with a mediating role of artificial intelligence (AI) in China’s logistics industry. Given the rapid growth and technological advancements in China’s logistics sector, this study employed quantitative research and convenience sampling techniques to collect data from 341 employees working in the industry. Smart PLS was used to test the proposed hypotheses through structural equation modeling (SEM). The study’s findings reveal that reward management, training and development, job appraisal, and teamwork significantly enhance logistics agility, while recruitment and selection show an insignificant impact. Similarly, the results reveal that sustainable HRM practices and artificial intelligence positively and significantly influence logistics agility. In addition, artificial intelligence substantially mediates the relationship between sustainable HRM practices and logistics agility. These findings offer valuable insights for HRM and logistics management, highlighting how AI can strengthen sustainable HRM practices to foster agility and improve logistics performance. The findings are particularly relevant for practitioners and policymakers aiming to enhance sustainability and efficiency in the logistics sector. Full article

Objectives: Taekwondo performance is influenced by a complex and dynamic interplay of physical, nutritional, and psychological factors, all of which contribute to competitive success. However, the gender-specific relationships among these factors in young high-performance athletes remain understudied. This study aimed to fill in this knowledge gap. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 35 elite taekwondo athletes (male: n = 20, female: n = 15, age: 13 ± 1 years). Participants underwent anthropometric assessments, dietary evaluations, and psychological skill assessments during an 8-week training camp before the World Taekwondo Championships. Physical performance was assessed using the Frequency Speed of Kick Test (FSKT_mult) and the Taekwondo-Specific Agility Test (TSAT). Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, correlation analyses, and regression models. Results: Males exhibited significantly higher fat-free mass (FFM: 42.8 ± 2.9 kg vs. 36.3 ± 1.6 kg, p < 0.001), skeletal muscle mass (SMM: 31.1 ± 2.2 kg vs. 28.2 ± 1.6 kg, p < 0.001), and energy intake (32.4 ± 4.6 kcal/kg vs. 29.3 ± 3.1 kcal/kg, p = 0.032) than females. Males also had greater dietary intakes of vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, and iron (all p < 0.05). There were no gender differences in any psychological attributes associated with emotional intelligence, sport success perception, and mental toughness. Although the total kick count in the FSKT_mult was similar for male and female taekwondo athletes (100.2 ± 4.6 vs. 97.5 ± 5.9 kicks, p = 0.139), males outperformed females in round 4 (19.4 ± 1.1 vs. 18.6 ± 1.4 kicks, p = 0.048) and round 5 (18.2 ± 1.0 vs. 17.2 ± 1.0 kicks, p = 0.007) of this test, suggesting higher physical performance maintenance during the test. Regression models indicated that body mass (β = 0.901, p < 0.001) and calcium intake (β = 0.284, p = 0.011) predicted performance in males, while body mass (β = 1.372, p < 0.001), protein intake (β = 0.171, p = 0.012), and emotional regulation (β = 0.174, p = 0.012) were key predictors in females. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of an integrated approach to training, nutrition, and psychological preparation in optimizing taekwondo performance. While males and females demonstrated similar psychological resilience and total kick output in a taekwondo-specific test, males exhibited superior endurance in later test rounds of this test. Performance optimization in young elite taekwondo athletes may require the implementation of gender-specific training and nutrition strategies, emphasizing body weight control and calcium intake for males and protein intake for females. Full article

This study leverages physical fitness assessment sensors to investigate the effects of a brief in-season break (detraining period) on the physical performance of female basketball players. Sixty-seven players (Senior (n = 19), U18 (n = 19), and U14 (n = 29)) were evaluated before and after a 3-week break using sensor-derived data from a countermovement jump (CMJ), an Abalakov jump (ABK), a linear speed test (20 m sprint), a seated medicine ball throw test (SMBT), and a Basketball-Specific Agility Test (TEA-Basket). The Total Score of Athleticism (TSA), computed as the mean Z-Score across tests, served as a composite indicator of physical fitness. Data obtained from performance sensors revealed significant interactions between time and category for the CMJ, ABK, 20 m sprint, and SMBT, while TEA-Basket measurements showed no significant changes. Time and baseline fitness level interactions were also significant for the CMJ, ABK, and SMBT but not for sprint time or the TEA-Basket. Despite observed declines in explosive strength, speed, and upper-body power across all groups, TSA scores remained stable. These findings underscore the utility of sensor-based evaluation methods in highlighting the adverse effects of short-term detraining and emphasize the necessity of tailored training strategies during competitive breaks. Full article

(1) Background: Complex training combines weight training and plyometric exercises within one series. This is one of the first systematic reviews to thoroughly investigate the effects of complex training on the motor abilities of male basketball players. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to determine the effects of complex training on the motor abilities of male basketball players; (2) Methods: The study protocol of this systematic review was registered at the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY202520116). Papers published from January 2008 to October 2024 were searched digitally using the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, ERIC, and Google Scholar databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using the PICOS strategy. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) and Physical Therapy Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the quality of the included randomized and non-randomized control trials, respectively; (3) Results: The results of this study showed that complex training is an effective method for improving the motor abilities of basketball players. Most studies investigating the effects of complex training have focused on explosive strength, where a positive impact has been demonstrated. In addition, studies show the positive effects of complex training on speed, agility, muscle strength, isometric muscle force, and aerobic endurance; (4) Conclusions: The authors of the study recommend that the most effective programs are 10 weeks long and conducted 2–3 times per week, with at least 48 h of recovery between sessions. For the pre-competition period, it is recommended to perform 3–5 sets of one complex pair; 2–12 repetitions of weight training, (70–95% 1RM); and 5–15 repetitions of plyometric exercises which are performed at maximum intensity. Future researchers in the field of basketball are encouraged to compare the effects of complex training in male and female basketball players or to compare the effects among male basketball players based on age (juniors vs. seniors) and competitive level (amateur vs. elite). Full article

Agile software project management (ASPM) serves modern industries to conduct iterative development of complicated code bases. The decision-making process in Agile environments regularly depends on individual opinions, creating ineffective results for risk management and resource distribution. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising approach for handling these challenges by delivering data-based choices to project management. This research introduces an AI-based decision support system for improving risk reduction and resource distribution in ASPM. The system merges optimization frameworks and predictive analytics to enhance operational decision efficiency. The machine learning solution anchors data evaluation using AI models that simultaneously predict risks and strengthen decision power for resource scheduling. This analysis relied on project records and recent operational data to perform model validation and training procedures. Tests determined how the framework performed against contemporary Agile project management systems by measuring the completion speed of sprints, resource management practices, and risk prediction accuracy. The framework demonstrated better performance by predicting risks and simultaneously maximizing resources utilized during projects. The proposed framework outperformed traditional Agile applications, achieving 94% accuracy in risk identification and enhancing workload management by 25%, leading to an 18% improvement in sprint completion rates and overall project efficiency. These findings confirm that AI-driven decision support systems (DSSs) are crucial in enhancing Agile project management by enabling proactive risk mitigation and optimized resource allocation. By integrating AI-powered decision-making, the framework empowers organizations to improve project outcomes, streamline resource management, and facilitate the adoption of AI-driven methodologies within Agile systems. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic devastated businesses globally, leading to significant economic and social challenges. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are particularly vulnerable to environmental turbulence, while their survival and resilience are critical to the national economic recovery of countries globally. This study adopted a qualitative approach to examine the strategic responses adopted by MSMEs and the impact of the strategies on survival and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The sample size comprises ten (10) MSMEs and data collection using a semi-structured interview schedule. The key findings indicate that the MSMEs adopted cost reduction and diversification strategies to mitigate the impact of the abrupt COVID-19 lockdowns and the subsequent financial and cashflow problems, threats to business continuity and survival. The study conclusions indicate that adopting a combination of cost reduction and diversification strategies improved the business continuity and survival of MSMEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study recommendations include the need for government and stakeholders to enhance the capacity and competence of MSMEs in strategic and operational planning, investing in technology, innovation, creativity, training and development of strategic agility and fostering adaptive organisational cultures that enhance flexibility, resilience and survival when faced with economic and business environment disruptions in future. Full article

Introduction: While napping is recognized as an effective strategy for mitigating insufficient sleep and enhancing athletic recovery, limited research exists on its effects on football players’ anaerobic performance, particularly concerning chronotype variations. This study investigated the impact of strategic napping durations on anaerobic performance and agility in football players under the age of 19 (U19), considering individual chronotypes and psychological factors. Methods: Sixteen young football players (age: 17.18 ± 1.04 years) participated in this crossover randomized controlled study. Participants underwent three conditions: no nap (NoN), 25 min nap (N25), and 60 min nap (N60), with 48 h washout periods between sessions. Performance was assessed using the Countermovement Jump Test (CMJ), Illinois Agility Test, and Illinois Change-of-Direction Test with Ball. Chronotype assessment, sleep quality, and mood states were evaluated using the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Profile of Mood States Questionnaire, respectively. Results: The 60 min nap protocol demonstrated significant improvements in agility performance compared to other conditions, particularly in the Illinois Agility Test and Change-of-Direction Test with Ball. However, no significant differences were observed in CMJ parameters across napping conditions. Chronotype variations showed correlations with agility performance and psychological factors, with evening-type participants displaying different responses to napping interventions compared to morning-type participants. Conclusions: While a 60 min post-lunch nap did not affect anaerobic performance, it positively influenced agility performance in soccer players. Chronotypic differences significantly impacted both agility performance and associated psychological factors. These findings suggest that integrating napping strategies into athletic training programs, while considering individual chronotypic variations, may present opportunities for enhancing specific aspects of athletic performance. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying physiological, psychological, and cognitive mechanisms of these effects. Full article

The aim of this scoping review was to examine the existing literature on padel among young players (under 18) and classify its main research areas. A systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 16 studies on teaching methodologies, psychological characteristics, physiological demands, physical attributes, and gameplay parameters. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis of research on youth padel. The findings suggest that a search-based teaching methodology enhances skill acquisition more effectively than traditional methods. Modifying the court dimensions (20 × 10 m to 10 × 6 m) and ball pressure optimizes learning in early training (~8–10 years). At advanced levels, training with professional players increases motivation and performance. The psychological analysis shows higher self-confidence and lower cognitive and somatic anxiety, with boys exhibiting greater somatic anxiety than girls, highlighting the need for sex-specific psychological strategies. The physiological findings establish reference values, with a higher VO2max in boys and younger players. In physical performance, boys outperform girls in terms of jump height and strength, while girls excel in agility. The gameplay analysis reveals that the rally duration increases with the skill level (7–9 s in beginners, 9–12 s in national players), the stroke frequency varies by level (from 4 at initiation level to 6–9 at regional and national levels), and there are differences in specific technical actions (forehand and backhand for initiation level, volleys for advanced level, and bandeja to finish points). From a practical standpoint, these insights can help coaches to tailor training strategies by considering a player’s age, sex, and competitive level, optimizing youth padel performance. Full article

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of different tension loads in post-activation potentiation protocols on agility and vertical jump performance across different times of day in trained judokas, addressing a significant gap in understanding the interaction between diurnal variations and post-activation potentiation protocol responses in combat sports. Materials and Methods: Seventeen male judokas (age: 21.41 ± 1.37 years) with ≥2 years of training experience participated in the study. Participants completed three different protocols: specific warm-up, the 80% post-activation potentiation protocol, and the 100% post-activation potentiation protocol, performed both in the morning (09:00–11:00) and evening (17:00–19:00) sessions. Performance was assessed using the Illinois Agility Test and countermovement jump. Protocols were randomized and counterbalanced over a 3-week period, with a minimum 48 h recovery between sessions. Statistical analysis employed repeated measures ANOVA (3 × 2) with Greenhouse–Geisser corrections. Results: Significant differences were observed in both protocols and time interactions for agility (F = 41.691, ηp² = 0.864, p < 0.001; F = 23.893, ηp² = 0.123, p < 0.001) and countermovement jump performance (F = 7.471, ηp² = 0.410, p = 0.002; F = 38.651, ηp² = 0.530, p < 0.001). The 80% post-activation potentiation protocol demonstrated superior performance outcomes compared to both specific warm-up and 100% post-activation potentiation protocols. Evening performances were generally better than morning performances for both agility and countermovement jump; however, the protocols/time interaction was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The 80% post-activation potentiation protocol was most effective for enhancing both agility and vertical jump performance in judokas, with superior results observed during evening sessions. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing warm-up strategies in judo competition, suggesting that lower-intensity post-activation potentiation protocols might be more beneficial than maximal loading, particularly during evening competitions. Full article

This research focused on the organizational level of teamwork in companies in the Slovak Republic. The study helped to reveal the possibilities of sustainable management of team cooperation. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews, the study examined four key areas: (1) team system and work positions in the team, (2) division of tasks in the team and tasks management, (3) team communication (external, internal), and (4) team training activities. The findings reveal a widespread use of teamwork, with a significant proportion of tasks performed by teams and many organizations exhibiting high reliance on teamwork. However, the study also highlights a dominance of traditional management practices, where team formation is primarily driven by capacity constraints, with limited support for organic team emergence. Moreover, management often retains significant control over team decision-making. The research further indicates that many employees lack adequate training in teamwork skills and principles. While teamwork is prevalent, reliance on traditional communication methods, such as face-to-face meetings and phone calls, persists, despite the potential of ICT tools to enhance collaboration. Furthermore, the effective use of ICT tools is hindered by challenges such as incompatibility between different systems and limited data accessibility. These findings underscore the need for organizations to embrace more agile and flexible team structures, invest in comprehensive teamwork training for all employees, leverage ICT tools effectively to improve communication and collaboration, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and feedback within teams. By addressing these areas, organizations can enhance teamwork effectiveness, improve employee engagement, and ultimately achieve better organizational outcomes so that they can implement sustainable approaches for organizing team collaboration. Full article

Adjusting the design of small-sided games and selecting the appropriate format can significantly enhance training outcomes and player development in soccer. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of intermittent small-sided games (ISSG) and continuous small-sided games (CSSG) on athletic performance metrics in male soccer players. This pilot study was conducted using a parallel group pre-test and post-test design, with 16 male youth soccer players randomly assigned to two groups: the ISSG group (n = 8, Mean age = 16.50 ± 0.53 years) and the CSSG group (n = 8, Mean age = 16.63 ± 0.52 years), ensuring a balance in pre-test performance and playing positions. The ISSG protocol began with 4 min sets in week one, progressively increasing to 7 min by week four, with 2 min rest intervals. The CSSG protocol involved continuous play, starting at 16 min and progressing to 28 min over the same period. Players underwent pre- and post-tests, with a 4-week training period. Performance metrics assessed included body composition, a 30 m sprint test, agility, horizontal jump, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, and static balance. Training intensity was monitored using the CR-10 Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale throughout the training period. Both groups exhibited improvements in horizontal jump, agility, aerobic and anaerobic power, and static balance, with no significant between-group differences. Sprint performance did not significantly improve in either group. The CSSG group reported higher RPE values and experienced a reduction in body mass index. Our findings demonstrate that both ISSG and CSSG resulted in similar improvements in athletic performance metrics in male youth soccer players. Coaches and practitioners can choose the most appropriate training method based on specific objectives, session duration, and player fatigue levels, thereby optimizing training outcomes. Full article

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of a 7-week combined strength and power training program on body composition, aerobic capacity, strength, sprint, and agility in elite youth soccer players. Twenty-one players, divided into age groups (U14 and U16), participated in this study. In addition to four training sessions per week (plus matches), the two groups completed a strength training session on Match Day 4 (MD-4) and a power training session on Match Day 2 (MD-2). Before and after the intervention, various tests were conducted, including skinfold measurements, submaximal intermittent shuttle run, eccentric hamstring strength (EHS), countermovement jump (CMJ), single-leg jump (SLJ), sprint test with split times at 10 and 30 m, agility t-test, push-ups, and pull-ups. Our results indicate that a seven-week program of combined strength training led to significant improvements in body composition, EHS, jump performance, and pull-up tests for both groups of players (p < 0.05). Moreover, the U14 group also demonstrated an improvement in the agility test (p < 0.01). The U14 group experienced more substantial gains than the U16 group in agility and push-up performance (p < 0.05). The sprint performance remained unchanged for both groups (p > 0.05), suggesting that specific training is required to improve this quality. Full article

Player-tracking systems provide vital time–motion and tactical data for analyzing athletic performance. Ultra-wideband (UWB) systems are promising for racquet sports due to their accuracy and cost-effectiveness compared to GNSS and optical systems. This study evaluated the accuracy of a UWB tracking system (GenGee Insait KS) for tennis-specific movements by comparing it with an optical motion capture system (VICON). Ten amateur players (International Tennis Numbers: 2–5) participated, performing seven exercises, including warm-up, agility drills, and tactical drills, with and without racquets. Raw data from both systems were processed to calculate the distances traversed. The average root mean square error between the two systems was 0.65 m (X-axis) and 0.76 m (Y-axis). Significant measurement discrepancies were observed (standardized mean difference: 0.86–1.95), except for jogging and walking exercises (p > 0.05). The overall percentage error was 16.29%. The intraclass correlation coefficient for distance measurements was 0.91, indicating good reliability. Tasks involving rapid acceleration and directional changes, such as the spider run, exhibited larger errors (mean bias: 4.13 m, effect size: 1.03). While the UWB system demonstrated acceptable accuracy for steady movements, it showed notable discrepancies during high-speed, tennis-specific activities. Overestimation due to arm movement and hip rotation suggests caution when applying arm-mounted UWB devices in training and competitive settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: The practice of physical activity contributes to obtaining adequate values of body composition and physical fitness, which is beneficial for people’s health. However, a large part of the adult population does not comply with the recommendations for physical activity, due to factors such as lack of time and nearby sports venues. Immersive virtual reality is a tool that allows individuals to immerse themselves in a simulated world and perceive visual, auditory, and tactile sensations. Its use in physical activity interventions favors exercise in situations that, due to time and space, could be limited in real life. The objective of this case report is to measure the impact on body composition and physical fitness of an exercise program executed through immersive virtual reality. Methods: The design is a case study with a quantitative approach developed through a physical activity intervention with immersive virtual reality in which body composition was evaluated considering fat and muscle components, and physical fitness considering cardiorespiratory fitness, speed-agility, and hand grip strength, through pre- and post-testing. The physical exercise program based on immersive virtual reality lasted 8 weeks. The subject of the study was a 24-year-old man, a second-year student of Pedagogy in Physical Education at a Chilean university, with no previous experience in this virtual tool. Results: The results indicate that for body composition the study subject decreased the fat component and slightly improved the musculature, while for physical fitness cardiorespiratory fitness and speed-agility improved, but manual grip strength decreased. Conclusions: It is concluded that the training developed through immersive virtual reality proves to be a tool that can promote improvements in body composition and physical fitness; it is necessary to carry out more research to validate the potential of this instrument as a means of contributing to the health of the population. Full article