Showing papers in "American Journal of Sports Science and Medicine in 2016"

Use of Energy Drinks Among College Students in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Energy drinks are popular among college students in Saudi Arabia (S.A) who consume these drinks for a variety of reasons. For example, college students believe that energy drinks can improve attention and/or reaction times during extended periods of cognitive demand. However, some of the ingredients in energy drinks, particularly sucrose and caffeine, can cause negative health effects such as an increase in heart rate and blood pressure and possible dehydration. In addition, these drinks can interfere with and disrupt normal sleep patterns. The majority of college students in Saudi Arabia are generally unaware of the potential health hazards of energy drinks. Therefore, the objective of this study was to access the usage patterns of energy drinks among college Students in Saudi Arabia. For this study, healthy college student volunteers from three universities in Riyadh, S.A. (King Saud University, Princess Nora Bint Abdul Rahman University and Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University) were recruited. Data were collected via a self-administered, standard pretested questionnaire consisting of 14 questions relating to students’ socio-demographic characteristics, personal habits, total fluid intake, energy drink-related knowledge, and habits. Of the 472 students surveyed, 338 regularly consume energy drinks. The mean age and standard deviation were 20.22 ± 1.71. An exploratory analysis was performed to model significant predictors of energy drink consumption. A backward elimination logistic regression modeling technique was used to reach the most parsimonious yet statistically significant model. Although there was a high prevalence of energy drink usage among students involved in this study, a majority of these students do not have accurate information about the products’ ingredients or potentially detrimental health effects. Our study showed that there is a need for more stringent labeling of energy drinks so that the consumer would know the exact quantity of each ingredient. Future studies are also needed to determine whether formal educational training could impact on understanding as well as intake of energy drinks and harmful side effects of such drinks among college students. Thus, there is an urgent need to provide college students with education and access to unbiased scientific information in order for the students to make informed and healthy choices.

Effects of Muscle Energy Technique in Increasing Range of Motion and Strength of Glenohumeral Internal Rotator, in Athletes with Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit

Abstract: Study design: Randomized control trial. Objective: To measure the effect muscle energy technique(MET) for the glenohumeral joint external rotators to improve the range of motion and strength of internal rotators in athletes with glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD). Background: Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit is one of the leading causes of impairments in overhead throwing athletes. Anatomical GIRD is though considered to be normal in overhead athletes but it may further lead to osseous and capsuloligamentous changes in the glenohumeral joint if not treated. The muscle energy technique protocol aimed at improving the range of motion and strength of the internal rotators of the glenohumeral joint. It has been hypothesized that MET will increase the glenohumeral internal rotation ROM and strength in athletes with GIRD. Methods: thirty overhead athletes were conveniently assigned in two groups. MET for glenohumeral joint external rotators (n=15) and stretching for glenohumeral joint external rotators (n=15). We measured the range of motion of glenohumeral joint internal rotation and strength of glenohumeral joint internal rotators, of the dominant shoulder at 0 day, 1st week and 2nd week. At the end of 2nd week data analysis was done using one way ANOVA and post hoc tukey’s test and significant results were found. (p < 0.05). Results: The group treated with MET for the external rotators had a significant increase in internal rotation at the end of 2nd week. The group treated with stretching for external rotators do not showed a significant increase in internal rotation. Conclusion: It is concluded that MET is an effective treatment for increasing the ROM and strength of internal rotation at the glenohumeral joint in asymptomatic overhead athletes. Therefore application of MET for the external rotators may be useful for increasing the ROM as well as strength in overhead athletes.

Inhibitory Effect of the Kinesio Taping® Method on the Gastrocnemius Muscle

Abstract: The Kinesio Taping® method has been studied widely for its claims as a therapeutic taping technique designed to enhance performance and treat a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological and other medical conditions. The applications of the Kinesio Taping® method are numerous and this intervention offers a broad range of research inquiry into its effectiveness. This study focuses on the performance benefits of the application of the Kinesio Taping® method. Specific attention was given to the inhibitory effects of the tape application on the gastrocnemius muscle group. Taping for muscle inhibition is indicated when a muscle is overactive as seen in muscular spasm. This study found that the Kinesio Taping® method was effective in inhibiting the muscle activity of the gastrocnemius muscle group without decreasing the performance output of the participants. This is clinically significant for clinicians who are progressing return to activity in patients who are recovering from a lower extremity injury, but still have some functional limitations from their injury. Purpose: This research study attempted to determine the effect of Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape on muscle inhibition when the tape is externally applied to a muscle group. Method: The participating athletes were measured by a Vertec© vertical jump device to determine height jumped as well as the BIOPAC Systems, Inc. (Goleta, CA) MP150 electromyography (EMG) machine to determine the amount of muscular activity. The participants were asked to complete nine single leg jumps on their dominant leg before being taped with Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape. The initial three jumps were performed as a warm-up, three more were performed while using the Vertec© to measure jump height, and the final three were performed while attached to the EMG machine to measure electrical activity in the gastrocnemius muscle group. After the initial jumps, each participant’s dominant calf was then taped with Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape. The tape was applied from insertion to origin to test the inhibitory effects of the Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape. After the tape was applied, each participant completed six more maximal vertical jumps on their dominant leg. The first three jumps measured muscular activity, and the last three jumps measured vertical jump height. Results: EMG results demonstrated a significant decrease in electrical activity. Electrical activity decreased for 20 participants (74%) while it increased for 7 participants (26%). The decrease in electrical activity found was (t (26) = 2.551, p = .017). The results of the vertical jump test using the Vertec© showed that in the 27 participants, 52% showed an increase in vertical jump height after the Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape was applied, 37% showed a decrease in vertical jump height after the application of the tape, and 11% of the participants had no change in vertical jump height. No significant difference was found in the vertical jump height between the without tape and with tape trials (t (26) = -1.120, p = .273). Conclusion: Based on this research, it can be concluded there is statistical evidence to show a difference in muscle activity after application of Kinesio® Tex Gold™ Tape. The values obtained from the EMG showed a majority of the participants had a decrease in muscle activity during a single leg vertical jump after being taped. The data found during the study supports the inhibitory basic application technique .

Review of Shoulder Injuries and Shoulder Problems in Competitive Swimmers

Abstract: Swimming is a popular sport, both recreationally and competitively. The repetitive nature of the swim stroke places unique demands on the body. Competitive swimmers spend a considerable amount of time training for their sport, and can swim 110km or more a week. As a consequence of this amount of swimming and the repetitive nature of the swimming stroke, swimmers can develop injuries, most commonly localised to the shoulder. This manuscript will focus on shoulder problems in swimmers and present a review of the factors that may predispose an individual to injury. The EBCSOhost Research Database was initially searched using the keywords: “(Swimming OR Swimmers”) AND “(Competitive OR Shoulder)” AND “(Injury OR Pain)”. This was supplemented by cross-referencing to publications cited by the authors of the initial literature search. Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were calculated to compare the different factors associated with shoulder injury. A review of literature split factors associated with shoulder problems into six groups: biomechanics of the shoulder; general swimmer characteristics; injury history; shoulder laxity and range of movement; shoulder strength; general strength. The impact of each factor upon swimming and shoulder injury is discussed and the effect sizes show which factors have the greatest association with shoulder injury in swimmers.

Leveraging of the Olympic Games on Mega-Sporting Events: A Strategic Framework for the Development of Sport

Abstract: Mega-sporting events can be described by their leveraging and intricacy in management and delivery. This article reviews the literature on the characteristics of such events and, drawing specific models from almost recent Olympic Games, it identifies the character and dimension of their leveraging on the host country and society. The paper finalizes that while the perspective of economic development is the driving power behind bids for hosting the Olympic Games, the heritages that pursuit their hosting are hard to measure, prone to political explanation and multifaceted. The mega-sporting events are in essence, only the catalyst for the efforts.

Lower Extremity Injuries of Volleyball Players During Moving Spike Landing

Abstract: Volleyball games worldwide have developed into aggressive volleyball games involving various types of attacking techniques. Among the various attacking techniques, the moving spike is most likely to cause body imbalance. When volleyball players perform a moving spike, to acquire more time and space when hitting the ball, they typically change their attack angle, timing, and position continually. Previous studies on run-up and landing have typically focused on vertical or forward landing. However, in actual sports scenarios, the directions of an attack landing may vary according to situations. To clarify the various sports injuries of volleyball players may sustain from landing after performing a moving spike, 10 male open level volleyball players were recruited from universities to perform 72-cm moving spike landing maneuvers. In the experiment, 11 digital motion cameras were used for 3D image capture, reflective markers were applied to track the locations of the body joints, and two AMTI 3D force plates were used to collect ground reaction force generated by the landing. The results revealed that the participant with the highest risk of sustaining a cruciate ligament tear was 172-cm tall and weighed 63 kg. The negative tibial shear force and horizontal reaction force generated from performing a moving spike were deduced to cause collateral ligament injuries to the participants who had played volleyball for 9–10 yrs. Therefore, we deduced that when volleyball players continually perform moving spike landing maneuvers without appropriate cushioning maneuvers and gear protection during training or competition, their collateral ligaments may develop chronic tendinitis.

Quantitative Analysis of Penalty Kicks and Yellow Card Referee Decisions in Soccer

Abstract: Soccer referees are required to make instant decisions during the game under non-optimal conditions such as imperfect view of the incident and substantial pressure from the crowd, the teams, and the media. Some of the decisions can be subjective, such as a yellow card decision after a foul is called, where different referees might make different decisions. Here we perform quantitative analysis of factors related to the reputation of the team such as the team’s rank, budget, and crowd attendance in home games, and correlate these factors with referee decisions such as penalty kicks and yellow cards. The calls were normalized by dividing the number of yellow cards by the number of fouls, and the number of penalty kicks by the number of shot attempts from the penalty box. Application of the analysis to the four major soccer leagues shows that certain referee decisions have significant correlation with factors such as the team’s rank, budget, and audience in home games, while for other decisions the Pearson correlation is not statistically significant. For budget, or audience in home games. On the other hand, a significant Pearson correlation has been identified between the chance of a foul call to result in a yellow card and the rank or budget of the team in the Bundesliga. The strongest correlation has been observed between the chance of a tackle to result in a foul call, and the budget and rank of the team.

Effects of Resisted Sprint Training on Sprint Performance in High School Baseball Players

Abstract: Resisted sprint training (RST) affects sprint speed in the acceleration phase, but there is no research regarding this for in adolescents. This study investigated the effects of RST on sprint speed and ground reaction force (GRF) in high school baseball players. Subjects were assigned to the resisted sprint group (RSG, n=10, loading 20% body mass), or the normal sprint group (NSG, n=9, without loading) and trained three days per week for eight weeks. Sprint speed [0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20 and 0-20 meters (m)] and GRF [peak propulsive/resultant force, (PFpro/ PFres); impulse, (I); and ratio of force applied onto the ground (RF)] measured at the right and left foot at the start, the first step of the left foot (L1st), 5 m and 10m were assessed before and after training. In the RSG, a significant interaction was found for sprint speed at 0-5 m (p=0.028) and increased after training (p<0.0001). The 15-20 m sprint speed increased significantly in the NSG after training (p=0.022). The 0-20 m sprint speed increased significantly in both groups after training (RSG, p=0.001; NSG, p=0.041). Significant interactions were found for PFpro (p=0.015) and RF (p=0.0002) at the L1st in the RSG. PFpro (p=0.005), PFres (p=0.038) and RF (p=0.0002) at L1st increased significantly in the RSG. RST increased sprint speed in the early part of the acceleration phase by improving force production but prevented the improvement of sprint speed over 15 m. Combining RST and sprint training without loading improved sprint speed in the acceleration phase.

Relationships between high intensity running and outcome of technical-tactical skills in professional soccer players during match play

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the relationships between high-intensity activities (HIA: speed, acceleration, Metabolic Power) and the outcomes of some technical-tactical skills in professional soccer players (n=610, age 26.8±7.0) during 50 games of the Italian “SERIE A” season 2013-2014. The analysis was carried out through a semi-automatic match analysis video-system. Each technical skill was automatically recognized and the number of events that overcame the threshold values we set as significant for high intensity activities, within 5s before the execution. Shots on goal showed that the HIA might be a discriminant factor in the outcomes (71.1% Success vs 61.5% Not Success, χ2 test, p<0.001). Crossing is clearly influenced by one preceding HIA (p<0.001). This study provides important insights referring to the different physical components occurring before performing a technical skill, highlighting the need of a close cooperation among coaches and physical trainers when assessing a match and designing the training programs.

Somatotyping and Some Physical Characteristics of Trained Male and Female Young Table Tennis Players

Abstract: The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship among somatotype characteristics and physical training of young male and female Indian table tennis players. A total of 29 players (14 males and 15 females), who represented district, state and national level competitions, were evaluated with the sex as a factor. Different body measurements were recorded following the guidelines proposed by the ISAK such as body mass, height, skinfold thicknesses at different sites (biceps, triceps, subscapular, supraspinale and medial calf), girths (arm relaxed, thigh, and calf) and breadths (biepicondylar humerus and femur). In addition to anthropometrical analysis, body composition and somatotype of the participants had been assessed. A t- test for independent samples was performed to examine the statistical differences between sex groups and a Pearson’s coefficient was applied to evaluate the correlation between variables. An endomorph-ectomorph somatotype characteristics was observed for the entire group. Analysis, taking into account the sex factor, revealed an endomorph-mesomorph somatotype for the males and an endomorph-ectomorph somatotype for the females. Data corresponding to body composition contrasted by sex showed higher body fat percentage for the female group than the males. Within the tested age interval range, body fat content in female players was higher than the male counterparts. Although these differences might be the consequence of a normal growth, it was advisable to integrate educational and nutritional strategies in order to maintain an optimum body fat content. Training procedure must be considered to improve the body type for the specific sports event.

Impact of City Image, Event Fit, and Word-of-Mouth Attempt Through the Host City of an International Sporting Event

Abstract: This study develops a structure of host city image, verifies the backgrounds and consequences of host city image, and predicts spectators’ positive word-of-mouth (WOM) attempt through the host city via structural equation modeling. A descriptive methodology was used with the cooperation of the local city government; questionnaires were distributed to spectators of the 30th Iran International Cycling Tour (Tour de Urmia) in Iran. Convenience sampling was utilized, and 280 usable questionnaires were obtained. First, the results produced a city image scale comprised of six factors and 21 items with reliability and validity. This scale incorporates the sports image into the city image to enable a comparison between the sports image and other city images, which is original to this paper. Second, the results indicated that affect toward the event (ATE) was a background variable to city image, image fit, and WOM attempt as a consequent variable. Third, the theoretical model could predict positive WOM attempt through the host city with a 23% explanatory rate. The host city of Tabriz provides evidence about the role of ATE, city image, and image fit, which is an important new contribution, as few studies have focused on city image or image fit.

Age-related Differences in Grip Strength Laterality in Male Elite Soft-tennis Players

Abstract: This study aimed to compare the grip strengths and laterality of dominant and non-dominant hands with respect to age among 468 male elite soft-tennis players who participated in a national athletic meet in Japan. The players ranged in age from 12 to 29 years and were classified into 12 groups according to age, with players older than 23 years old comprising a single group. Grip strength was measured twice in both hands, and the larger value for each hand was used as the representative value. We evaluated the difference in grip strength between the dominant and non-dominant hands as a variable. Statistical analysis identified significant differences between the 12-year-old group and all age groups over 14 years, and between the 13-year-old group and all age groups over 15 years. In addition, small differences were observed among age groups over 14 years. In conclusion, among male elite soft-tennis players who had participated in technical tennis training since childhood, grip strength laterality became remarkable at ages older than 14 years but generally remained constant at ages older than 17 years.

Transitional Nurturing Determines Performance in Elite Sprinting

Abstract: Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine what factors account for the selection of athletes to represent Jamaica in track and field events at the Olympics and World Championships. Methods and materials: One hundred and twenty athletes who represented Jamaica between 1948-2015 in track and field events were interviewed. The athletes were classified based on athletic disciplines: Sprinter (S:100– 400m, n =80), jumper, hurdler and thrower (JHT, n = 23), and middle distance runners (Mdr: 800–3000m, n =17). The athletes were further sub-divided into athletes who represented Jamaica at the Olympic Games and the World Championships (highest level games) and those who represented Jamaica at the Pan-American, Commonwealth, World Junior Championships, World Youth Olympics, World University Games and the CARIFTA Games (other games). Each athlete was administered a questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed based on models used in studies elite athletes from Ethiopia Kenya and Jamaica who were competitors in international games. The questions elicited the following information: age, gender, event/s participated in, place of birth of athlete and parents, secondary/high school athlete attended and yes or no for living arrangements with adult/s) other than family members during athletic development in high schoool. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences, Version 21. Statistical significance was set at P <0.05%. Cross tabulations for statistical associations and binary regression for influence of independent variables on a dependent variable were utilized in the analysis. Results: The majority of athletes, 83.3% who represented Jamaica in track and field and their parents, 79.2% were born in Jamaica. There were slightly more females than males, 50.8 % versus 48.2%. Approximately 91.7% of athletes attended high school in Jamaica defined as having a strong history of participation in athletics and 85% lived with adults other than family members during athletic development at the high school level. More than 66% of athletes participated in the 100-400m sprints but only 26.6 % of participants were selected to represent Jamaica in the highest level games. Secondary/high school the athlete attended influenced selection to represent Jamaica in the highest level games and in the sprint events. Conclusion: Selection to represent Jamaica in the sprint events at the Olympics and World Championships is influenced by the secondary school the athlete attended.

A Comparative Morphometric Analysis of Trained Young Male and Female Swimmers and Table Tennis Players

Abstract: The study was designed to evaluate and compare the somatotype characteristics of male junior Swimmers, female junior Swimmers, and Table Tennis players. Twenty-six Swimmers and twenty-nine Table Tennis players were evaluated for their anthropometric and somatotype characteristics. Endomorphy, Mesomorphy and Ectomorphy components were evaluated for the entire groups. Mesomorphy components of male and female Swimmers were higher than the Table Tennis players. Total fat content was significantly higher in both male and female Table Tennis players when compared to the Swimmers. The male and female Swimmers and Table Tennis players were more endomorphic in average. Moreover, desired sports specific body type were not found when evaluated individually. The mesomorphy components were found to be higher in male Swimmers (30%) compared to 0% in female Table Tennis players.

Talent Development Environment in Nigeria: Athletes’ Perceptions of Barriers, Opportunities and Facilitators

Abstract: Environmental factors have been considered as critical to successful talent development in sports The entire backgrounds of development including the home, school, community and the organizational culture in sport should provide consistent and coherent support for the developing champions if the goal of effective talent development is to be realised This study explored the nature of talent development environment in Nigerian in order to uncover the barriers, opportunities and facilitators of effective talent development in the country Eight successful national athletes were interviewed Inductive analysis revealed the barriers (eg family barriers, finance, facilities, lack of regular competitions, issues with injury/rehabilitation), opportunities (eg luck, school sport, early senior participation) and facilitators of development (eg hard work, peer influence, coach-athlete relationship) It was suggested that the barriers be mitigated by encouraging the relevant parties (eg parents, governments) to promote an enabling environment for talent development in sport Recommendation was made for further studies

Progressive Resistance Training Modulates the Expression of ACTN2 and ACTN3 Genes and Proteins in the Skeletal Muscles

Abstract: Purpose: Mammalian skeletal muscle has the two isoforms of actin binding protein, α-Actinin-2 and α-Actinin-3, which are located in the skeletal muscle Z-line where they cross-link the actin thin filaments. There is a common stop codon polymorphism R577X in the ACTN3 gene. Several association studies have demonstrated that the ACTN3 R577X genotype influences athletic performance. The response of α-Actinins to resistance exercise training is little understood. Methods: Female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to control (C; n = 10) and resistance training (T; n = 12) groups. Training consisted of climbing a ladder carrying a load suspended from the tail. After training, fast (Flexor halluces longus, FHL) and slow (Soleus) hind limb muscles from each group was examine to study the effect of resistance training on muscle mass. Gene expression and protein levels of both Actn3, Actn2 were examined. Results: The resistance trained group had a significantly greater absolute muscle mass in FHL (P=0.011). We also found that Actn3 and Actn2 gene expression levels increased significantly in FHL and Soleus muscles by mean factors of 2.16, and 2.91, respectively. α-Actinin-2 protein expression increased significantly in training group (P=0.025) while, α-actinin-3 protein expression remained similar in training & control groups (P=0.130). The most important finding of this study showed that both α-actinin-3 and α-actinin-2 mRNA levels were up-regulated after 8wk of resistance training (P≤0.05). Conclusion: Our results provide a new insight into the impact of progressive resistance training and evaluating the role of α-actinins responsiveness.

The Effect of Pilates Exercise with Sage Herbal Consumption on Respiratory Functions for Soccer Players

Abstract: Sage herbal is an evergreen subshrub that is native to the Mediterranean region. Recent studies have demonstrated that Salvia consumption may improve symptoms associated with lung and sinus disorders. The effect of Sage consumption on respiratory parameters in healthy athletic populations is not clear. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of Pilates training conjugated with the drinking of Sage herbal on the respiratory function of young soccer players. Method: The analysis is based on baseline measurements of 40 healthy soccer players were (age 17.48 ± 0.82y, mass 64.19±6.44 Kg, BMI 22.8 ± 2.54, Kg/M2, height 174.4±3.91 cm and competitive experience 6.81±1.24 y). The experimental group was 21 players. In contrast, the control group was 19 players. The experimental group participants consumed 60-70 ML of cold Salvia after boiling twice a day with aerobic exercises for 6-weeks. Dependent measures were taken immediately before (pretest) and after (posttest) the 6-week period and included vital capacity (VC), inspiratory vital capacity (IVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1). Results: There were differences between pre-test and post-test values for the experimental group in all measures (p < 0.05) except FEV1/FVC and FEV1/VC (p < 0.53). For example, VC post-test values were 15% greater than pre-test values (4.88±1.15 vs 5.62± 0.72) and IVC post-test values were 14% greater than pre-test values (4.45±1.18 vs 5.06± 0.64). A similar observation was made for FVC, PEF, and FEV1 values. In Addition to, there were differences between post-tests of the experimental group and control group (p < 0.53) in VC, IVC, FVC, FEV1 PEF and MEF50. Conclusion: There are limited studies over the effect of Sage on respiratory function in athletes. The results indicate that healthy athletic soccer players who consume herbal Sage for 6-weeks improve respiratory functions as evidenced by greater VC, IVC, and FVC values during posttest than pretest. Moreover, these results are encouraging and suggest drinking the salvia officinalis may help in long aerobic activities.

Comparison of Self-Regulation Strategies in Elite Basketball Players Based on Personality Types

Abstract: Introduction: Nowadays, identification of factors related to success of athletes is considered as one of the important issues in psychology of sport. Self-regulation is one of these factors investigated recently. The aim of this study is to compare self-regulation strategies of Iranian basketball players based on their personality types. Method: subjects of this study were male basketball players of Iranian super league in 2013-2014, which 118 of them were selected as sample of study, based on Morgan sample size table. Miller and Brown’s Self-Regulation Questionnaire and Eysenck personality were used in this study. Since the number of introverts was low, they were excluded in the present study. In addition, sample of study was divided into two groups of stable extroverts and unstable extroverts, based on Eysenck personality. Results: results indicated that there was significant difference between two groups. Results also showed that each of these groups use various strategies to self-regulation. Conclusion: considering personality types, individuals can use various strategies for self-regulation that this issue can play role in achieving their goals and successes.

Sports Facility Safety Plans: A Framework for Evaluation of Evacuation Times

Abstract: The objective of the work is to propose a model that can analyse the conformity of a stadium, sports field or other sports facility to Italian safety norms. The model serves in particular to analyse the adequacy of the facility ‘safety plan’ in terms of its definition of the stages, procedures and times for evacuation of the facility. The model is structured in modular form, beginning with an analysis of the conformity of the sports facility to the applicable norms. This first stage applies a series of purpose-developed checklists to describe the facility as defined by Ministerial Decrees 18/03/1996 and 06/06/2005. Following this, the facility is characterized in terms of its location, dimensions and structural type. The next stages are: i) the analysis and estimation of the evacuation times, on the basis of the information previously gathered on the facilities; ii) the evaluation of conformity with the safety plan for the particular facility, applying the results from the previous steps. The proposed framework can be used as an instrument in support of decision-making for improvement in the safety levels of the sports facility, through augmenting the effectiveness of procedures and equipment, while also considering the economic implications of the potential improvements.

Biomechanical Indicators of Jump Height Among Varied Techniques of Vertical Jump

Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to determine the biomechanical indicators of jump height among varied techniques of vertical jump and examine if the rate of force development is a valid indicator for vertical jump height or not. Fifteen male high level athletes participated in this study performed three techniques of the vertical jump. Motion data were recorded by a high-speed camera at a frequency of 250 Hz, video point v 2.5 2D motion analyses for kinematic variables, and force platform (MP4060®, Bertec Corporation, Columbus, OH, USA) which measured the ground reaction force at a sampling rate of 1000 Hz. The RFD was calculated as the Peak Force divided by the time taken to achieve the Peak Force, the integration was calculated by OriginPro 8.5 to calculate impulse and work. The results showed a significant difference between techniques in all analyzed variables, a positive significant correlation between vertical velocity, impulse, work, temporal variables with flight height, and the negative significant correlation between the rate of force development with flight height and jump techniques. In Conclusion, this results emphasized the importance of velocity, impulse, and work as indicators when evaluating the vertical jump.

Anthropometric and Somatotype Characteristics of Emigrant Canadian Women Living in Canada

Abstract: One thousand four hundred and ten (1410) adult women age ranged from 19 to 40 year were measured randomly for their anthropometric and somatotype characteristics as a part of fitness counselling at local fitness clubs during the year 2010-2012 at Toronto. Women were from Greater Toronto Area (GTA) of Canada and living in Canada for the last 15 years or more after migrating from different countries and were from different ethnical groups. The age ranged from 19 to 40 years with an average value of 26.2 year (±5.5). Observed average height for the studied women was 162.7 cm (±6.9) with an average body mass of 68.9Kg (±16.6). Height ranged from 151.5 cm to 177.5 whereas body mass ranged from 48.2kg to 87.5 kg indicating wide range of height and body mass. Mesomorphic Endomorph body type (6.1±2.5 ─ 4.3±1.6 ─ 1.4±1.3) was obtained in average. Most of them (65.9%) were with Mesomorphic Endomorph body type whereas 10.6% women were Endomorph-Mesomorph, rest were in different other categories. 30.8% body fat in average was observed which was very high considering 18-20% fat range for athletic women.

Agility Characteristics of Various Athletes Based on a Successive Choice-reaction Test

Abstract: In competitive sports of an open-skill system, rapid information-processing ability and adequate movement ability corresponding to rapidly changing information and stimuli are demanded athletes. This study examined the agility characteristics of athletes by using a successive choice reaction test. The subjects included 80 male university athletes, with 10 athletes randomly selected per competitive event for a total of eight competitive events. A successive choice-reaction test comprising five step patterns was used. A cell placement similar to step sheet placement was presented to the subjects on a personal computer display. The cell (sheet) for the athletes to step into was continuously and randomly indicated. The athletes quickly stepped onto eight sheets that corresponded to each cell shown on the display in each pattern. The entire process for achieving each pattern required eight steps (between stimulation presentation and step landing). From among the five patterns, the patterns with the minimum and maximum times were excluded. A mean of the total time for three patterns was used as an evaluation variable. Results of the statistical analysis including a one-way ANOVA indicated that the reaction time was significantly shorter in open-skill sports athletes than in closed-skill sports athletes. In conclusion, athletes in open-skill sports have superior successive choice reaction ability when compared with the athletes in closed-skill sports.

Effect of Achievement Possibility of a Balance Board Test on Physical Functions, ADL, Fall Experience, and Fall Risk in Elderly Females

Abstract: To maintain a stable posture on an unstable moving stool is performed by few in daily life. Hence, the achievement of a stable posture on an unstable moving stool may be difficult even for the elderly with high independence in daily activities. The passive dynamic balance ability required for the above movement has close relationships with activities of daily living (ADL) and fall risk. This study aimed to examine differences between the female elderly [possible group (PG), n = 123] who could maintain a stable posture on an unstable stool leaning sharply in the backward and forward directions for 20 s (balance board test) and those could not maintain this posture [impossible group (IG), n = 20] for physical functions, ADL, fall experience, and fall risk. Physical functions included isometric leg strength, balance ability, and walking ability. They were administered the above-stated various tests and surveys on ADL, fall experience, and fall risk. PG showed significantly lower rates of fall experience than those shown by IG. In addition, PG was superior in one-leg standing with eyes open, 10-m walking, and ADL compared with IG, but an insignificant difference was found for leg strength between both groups. In conclusion, the female elderly who cannot perform the present balance board test have more fall experience and are inferior in static balance ability, walking ability, and ADL compared with the elderly who can perform it despite having similar static leg strength.

Somatotyping and Biomotor Features of Male Children of Chandauli and Mirzapur Districts of Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract: Five hundred and one (501) male children aged between eight and fourteen years were selected randomly from the districts of Chandauli and Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh , India for establishing the association between components of somatotyping and biomotor features. Heath- Carter technique was used to determine the somatotyping of the children. Hand grip strength, sit and reach test, vertical jump and 4x10m agility test were used for biomotor features. Product moment correlation was used to determine the relationship between somatotyping and biomotor features. Socioeconomic conditions, nutritional inadequacies and geographical factors might have an influence on the physical growth of the studied population along with their genetic constitution.Significant relationships were observed when correlated the somatotype components with physical fitness parameters. Somatotype, as the indicator of children’s body development , was an acceptable predictor to explain variations in the physiques of children. Hereditary and external factors such as regular activity, nutritional status, and motivation of parents and teachers must also be taken into account while trying to explain the various levels of physical fitness in the children.

An Empirical Study of Kapalbhati Pranayama on Respiratory Parameters of University Level Girls

Abstract: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of kapalbhati pranayama on respiratory parameters. The study was conducted on 50 university level girls of Department of Physical Education (T), Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar between the age group of 21-26 years (Mean ± SD: age 22.04 ± 1.63 yrs, height 5.41 ± 0.14 ft, body mass 60.88 ± 3.04 k). The subjects from experimental group were subjected to a 4-week training of kapalbhati pranayama. Student t test for paired samples was utilized to compare the means of the pre-test and the post-test. Significant differences were found in Tidal Volume (VT), Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV), Vital Capacity (VC) and Inspiratory Capacity (IC) in experimental group and insignificant between-group differences were noted in Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV) of university level girls. The result further indicates that no significant changes over that 4- week period were noted in the control group.

Comparative Analysis of Health Related Fitness Among Female Vegetarian Athletes of Football, Basketball and Volleyball

Abstract: The study was conducted to compare the health related physical fitness of vegetarian athletes of different team games like Football, Basketball and Volleyball. Sixty female athletes (21.2 ± 2.4 year) were studied out of which twenty were from Football, twenty were from Basketball players and rest were from Volleyball. Significant differences were observed only in endurance whereas no significant differences were observed in flexibility, body composition, muscle strength and muscular endurance.

Assessing Towards the Perception of Physical Activities of People in Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases in the Case of Debre Berhan and Showa Robit Towns

Abstract: This study atte mpted to assess the habits and awareness of people towards physical exercise, its challenges and opportunities in the process of preventing selected NCDs. To conduct this, the researchers delimited to Debre Berhan and Showa Robit towns in different respective population groups and offices. The total sample sizes were 3200 and a minimum of 900 sample respondents were taken by 10% rule among this 743 for questionnaire and 157 for interview respondents. Each office has been selected by stratified sampling based on purposively expected availability of information and participants categorized according to their demographic placement such as sex, age, education and habit of involvement then followed by simple random sampling techniques. The data collection tools employed questionnaires, interview with focus group discussion and document were analyzed in triangulation manner. The reason why the researchers chooses these methods to get valuable and reliable data for numerous barriers of physical exercise, prevention disease (NCDs) in the case of Debre Birhan and Showa Robit town. Then the questionnaires were administered and the data was collected, tailored, analyzed and logical conclusion and recommendation was reported.

Effect of Three Protocols of Warming up Involving Stretching on the Kinematic Performance of Horizontal Jumping, Agility and Speed for Soccer Players

Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of three different protocols of stretching on the kinematic performance of horizontal jumping, Agility and speed for soccer players. The first protocol is doing ballistic stretching then static stretching exercises (BS-SS). The second protocol is doing static stretching then ballistic stretching exercises (SS-BS). The third protocol is doing soccer passing drills (SPD) for 10 minutes without stretching. The three protocols were applied after 5 minutes of running activities. Dependent variables included a horizontal jump, agility run, and 30-m sprint tests. Also speed, acceleration, and steps frequency were analyzed. This study was applied on 23 trained male student-athletes aged (20+ 0.4 years). The (SS-BS) condition (2.247 + 0.096 m) showed significant differences (p < 0.01) for longer distance than the (BS-SS) condition (2.165 + 0.124) and also than the (SPD) condition (2.197 + 0.110 m) in the horizontal jump test. The (SS-BS) condition (3.544 + 0.247 second) also showed significant differences (p < 0.01) in the flying 30m sprint test for faster times than the (BS-SS) condition (3.858 + 0.288 second) and also than the third condition (SPD) (4.050 + 0.193 second) . The (SPD) condition showed significant differences (p < 0.01) in agility test for faster time than both the (BS-SS) (11.533 + 0.485) and (SS-BS) (11.676 + 0.530) conditions. Depending on the study results and previous studies, (SS-BS) which may be practiced before high intensity activities in trained athletes if preceded by moderate intensity running activities is recommended.

Chronic Haematological Profile Study in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Athletes

Abstract: This paper will treat about hematological parameters in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athletes, linking their training with some variations of these parameters. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potentialities of this sport modality in what it has to do with promotion and maintenance of human health. Fourteen athletes have participated in this study that consisted in accompanying them during their training for six months, when monthly blood samples were collected and weekly monitoring of heart rate training were done. Variations in hematological parameters have been compared with the intensity of the training performed all this long. Statistical analyzes performed were Student t test for paired samples when data showed a normal distribution, and Wilcoxon test for paired samples, when data didn't show a normal distribution. Results show that erythrocytes and lymphocytes varied in a very similar way to the intensity of training. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, total leukocytes, neutrophils and platelets varied oppositely to training intensity. RDW, monocytes and eosinophils varied randomly, with no relation to the intensity of training. The training stimulates an increase in the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, however, the kind of intense training and full contact, with frequent injuries, might cause hemolysis, maintaining low concentrations of these parameters. Jiu Jitsu promotes specific effects both in the red data series as in white ones; and it can be recommended for health maintenance, since, despite the detected variations, all parameters remained under the reference values.

Factors Influencing the Motivation of Sports Coaches in the Organization and Management of Sports Competition in Owerri Municipal Council of Imo State

Abstract: This study determined factors influencing the motivation of sports coaches in the organization and management of sports competition on concerned municipal council Imo state. This is so because there can be little doubt that sport coaching has been accorded an increased level of significance in recent years but coaches complained murmuring acted both as a culmination of this attention as reference point for current research and development. Four objectives and four research questions guided the study. The target population for the study comprised of all coaches of Owerri Municipal Council of Imo State. Sample of forty four (44) coaches were selected and used through simple random sampling technique. The instrument used for the study was a structured questionnaire to collect data. Result showed that remuneration, more courses, adequate facilities with standard equipment in–service training and education are factors influencing the motivation of sports coaches. It was recommended among others that provision of grant scheme, scholarship scheme, general promotion of coaching and a comprehensive education system essential but effort to create and support a positive working environment for coaches must be a long term priority.