Showing papers in "International Journal of Sports Science in 2015"

Tactical Decision Making in Team Sports — A Model of Cognitive Processes

Abstract: In dynamic situations such as sports, athletes use environmental information to compare the current situation with similar situations in the past. On the basis of this experience a recognized option will be generated and chosen (1). We evaluated decision making in team handball by tracking the eye movements of participants during the decision-making process. We performed two studies using the same sample that differed in the format of visual presentation. In Study 1 we presented different offensive scenes on a virtual tactic board via a computer screen. In Study 2, the participants watched real decision-making situations in a large video projection on a wall. The same participants took part in both studies (i.e., experienced both formats). The studies were intended to extend previous research on the take-the-first heuristic (limited cue use and limited option generation). An option-generation paradigm was used to measure choice behavior in participants with high and low expertise levels. Results of Study 1 showed that all participants produced nearly the same gaze behavior but experts generated options with a higher probability of success. In Study 2 we conceptually validated the effect in more complex situations. Benefits of that information search and choice behavior are explained based on a simple heuristics approach, and practical recommendations are provided.

Physiologic and Metabolic Effects of a Suspension Training Workout

Abstract: Suspension training is a combination of unique training movements aimed at improving strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility, power, and core stability within a single workout. Suspension training is marketed as a cardiovascular and resistance training exercise modality performed like a circuit-training workout, in which a series of exercises are performed in rotation with minimal rest time. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a suspension training workout on physiologic and metabolic markers of intensity and performance. Methods: Twelve male subjects (22.0 ± 0.7 years) participated in a 60-minute whole body interval-based suspension training workout while connected to a metabolic cart. Lactate was measured before, at mid point, and various times following exercise. Results: The average heart rate (HR) during the work out was 69±2 % of estimated max. Blood lactate levels rose to 8.0±0.5 mmol/L at mid point, and remained elevated during the work out. The caloric expenditure was 340.9±13.6 kcals, or 5.3±0.4 kcal/min with a respiratory exchange ratio1.03±0.01. Conclusions: These data indicate that a suspension training workout with a 30 sec: 60 sec work to rest ratio provides at least a moderate-intensity cardiovascular workout while some data suggest a higher intensity workout is achieved.

Contribution to the identification of the professional skills profile of coaches in the Algerian sport judo system.

Abstract: This study was designed to determine the professional skills of coaches, which are identified and judged based on a large number of factors. The purpose of this article is to describe the views of four groups of professional actors concerning coaches’ skills: athletes, coaches, leaders and experts from the Algerian judo sport system. The actors of the system responded to the same series of questions regarding coaches’ skills. The actors’ views across the five groups of specific professional skills are more similar than dissimilar, with each professional group emphasizing a different item of the coaches’ skills. The results show that coaches and athletes have the same representations of technical and teaching skills. However, there is a discrepancy in representations regarding organizational and managerial skills. Stakeholders’ views are compared to the coaching science literature, and recommendations for developing a professional skills repository of judo coaches are provided.

The Use of Microsoft Kinect for Human Movement Analysis

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to provide evidence of reliability and validity for the use of a Microsoft Kinect system to measure displacement in human movement analysis. Three dimensional (3D) video motion systems are commonly used to analyze human movement kinematics of body joints and segments for many diverse applications related to gait analysis, rehabilitation, sports performance, medical robotics, and biofeedback. These systems, however, have certain drawbacks pertaining to the use of markers, calibration time, number of cameras, and high cost. Microsoft Kinect systems create 3D images and are low cost, portable, not markers required, and easy to set up. They lack, however, evidence of reliability and validity for human movement kinematics analysis. Twenty-six participants were recruited for this study. Peak Motus version 9 and Microsoft Kinect system with customized skeleton software were used to collect data from each subject sitting on a platform moving horizontally at the speed of 2.4 meters per minute. The Peak Motus system demonstrated higher degree of reliability for all body joints when compared to the Kinect system. In terms of validity evidence, the Kinect system demonstrated a stronger agreement to the Peak Motus system for the left and right knee joints. The results of this study support the literature and indicate that the Kinect system has potential to be used as a tool to measure and analyze human movement kinematics.

The Effects of Dehydration on Skill-Based Performance

Abstract: The execution of a skill-based task relies on the collective use of both cognitive and motor skills. Dehydration impairs the ability to maintain thermoregulation and water balance during exercise, particularly in warm conditions, and has been found to inhibit cognitive function and motor skill performance. However, the numerical threshold at which dehydration incurs a decline in cognitive or motor skill performance is widely debated, despite the evidence that performance is impaired after a 1-2% body mass loss. The debate continues due to increasing evidence available from individuals who either possess automaticity of set skills or have acclimatised to dehydration through regular participation in sport, which helps to maintain cognition or motor skill performance. In addition, the use of a variety of pre-protocol methodologies, inconsistent psycho-physiological test batteries and varying athletic behaviours add inherent complexities to determine a general dehydration threshold. Thus, to understand the implications of dehydration on skill-based performance it is important to consider synergistic effects of all of these factors. The present review discusses currently available information on the effects of dehydration on cognitive and motor skills and their contribution to skill-based sporting performance.

The relationship between pre-competition state anxiety components and mood state sub-scales scores and the result of among college athletes through temporal patterning.

Abstract: Pre-competition psychological states have been claimed to be one of the factors in predicting sport performance in a varied range of sports. The aim of current study is to measure pre-competition mood states and state anxiety components to predict the result of competition. The number of 219 participants were selected for this study, range from 18 to 26 years old (M = 1.74, SD = 0.60 yr.; male = 99, female = 120); who represented the UiTM team participated in the study. The participants completed the Profile of Mood States- Adolescent (POMS-A) and the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) at three difference temporal patterns including one week, one day and one hour prior to competition. Logistic regression was conducted to assess whether the nine variables, anger, confusion, depression, fatigue, tension, vigor, cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self-confidence, significantly predicted whether the result of the competition is win or lose. The Wald statistics and change in -2 log-likelihood were used to examining the significance of the regression coefficients of the hypothesized predictors. The result of binary logistic regression showed that there were not significant differences in one week and one day hour before competition. However, results revealed that the model was significantly meaningful for three sub-scales of mood state (fatigue, tension and vigor) out of nine measured independent variables only at one day before competition. Remarkably, it means that the model could correctly predict 63.1% of the winners and 26% of the losers. This shows that the regression model for only one day before competition was excelled at predicting the winner and not the losers.

The Effect of Kinesio Taping on Vertical Jump Height and Muscle Electromyographic Activity of the Gastrocnemius and Soleus in Varsity Athletes

Abstract: Objective: To examine the effect of kinesio tape compared to no tape on vertical jump height and triceps surae electromyographic (EMG) muscle activity in healthy varsity athletes. Design: One group pre-test post-test design. Methods: Twenty healthy varsity athletes (15 females and 5 males) between the ages of 18 and 30 (20.45 years ± 1.36) participated in this study. Each participant was a member of a varsity university basketball, volleyball and/or track and field team. After consent was obtained, the participant completed a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the Waterloo Footedness Questionnaire. The participant then completed a brief warm up and three practice trials of each jump technique. The jumping techniques included the countermovement vertical jump and static vertical jump. The skin at each sensor site was prepped and cleaned and a Delsys Trigno Wireless EMG System was attached to the lateral and medial gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles. After insuring that the EMG sensors were firmly attached, the individual performed a maximal vertical jump and the height of the vertical jump measured using a Vertec device. The participant performed three trials of a one-footed take off using only his/her dominant foot and a two-footed take off maximal countermovement vertical jump and static vertical jump. Each of these jumps were performed with a one footed take off using the dominant leg only, and then a two footed take off using both legs. Kinesio tape was then applied to the dominant leg using a combined taping technique (facilitatory and mechanical corrective). The maximal countermovement vertical jump and static vertical jump height was then re-tested. The mean rectified average EMG signal intensities and vertical jump heights were analyzed. A paired samples t-test was used to analyze the data comparing baseline to post-taping values with an alpha level set at p<.05. Results: There was a significant increase in mean vertical jump height (t(19)=-4.091, p=0.01) for the one legged static jump with the application of tape. The mean one legged static jump height without tape was 26.29 cm ± 9.12, while with tape it was 28.72 cm ± 7.37. There was no significant difference in the vertical jump height for the one legged static, one legged countermovement, or two legged countermovement jumps. There was also no significant difference in the EMG activity across the four jump types for the gastrocnemius or soleus muscles with and without tape. Conclusions: The findings of this study have shown that the application of an Achilles tendinopathy kinesio taping technique increased the vertical jump height during a one legged static vertical jump. A trend of minor improvement was evident in all of the vertical jumps that were performed with tape. It was found that kinesio tape had no effect on EMG activity of the gastrocnemius or soleus muscles. The improvement in vertical jump height demonstrates that the application of kinesio tape may provide an individual with an athletic advantage in sports such as volleyball and basketball where jump height may be advantageous in certain sport specific situations.

Muscle Strength Assessment of Knee Flexors and Extensors. Comparative Study between Basketball, Football, Handball and Volleyball Athletes

Abstract: Muscle strength of lower limbs is considered a key factor in handball, basketball, football and volleyball athletes' performance, as support of specific motor skills and actions. One of the methods used to assess muscle strength is isokinetic dynamometry. Objective: This study aims to describe and compare the isokinetic profile of professional athletes in various sports and to analyze the relationship with the practiced sport. Methods: Through an observational, analytical and cross-sectional study were assessed 86 athletes (Handball=14; Basketball=27; Football=25; Volleyball=20) using an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex Medical System® 4. The assessed parameters were Peak Torque and Peak Torque to Body Weight at angular velocities of 60°/s (4 repetitions) and 180°/s (6 reps). Results: The basketball, football and volleyball athletes had higher Peak Torque and Peak Torque to Body Weight values in the dominant member in comparison to the non-dominant. Comparing sports, athletes from basketball and volleyball had higher values of Peak Torque in the Quadriceps of the dominant limb at 180°/s. Football players had Peak Torque and Peak Torque to Body Weight values higher than other sports in both members and angular velocities. Conclusions: The results seem to suggest that, in different sports, some muscle groups are more required than others.

Nutritional Knowledge and Dietary Habits of Philippine Collegiate Athletes

Abstract: Athletes who have the knowledge and understanding of how they eat and what they eat and reflect this knowledge to their total daily needs and athletic performances are considered to be more successful in their sports life. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between nutritional knowledge and dietary habits of Philippine collegiate athletes allowing comparison for age and gender. Eighty-five athlete-respondents from the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) and Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) were randomly selected. Descriptive survey research design was adopted in the study. The Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient and Kruskal-Wallis test for equality of population was also used to test the hypotheses. Results revealed that more female athletes (4%) showed poor level of nutritional knowledge compared to no one of the male athletes. No reliable difference was found for both age and gender of the athlete-respondents in terms of nutritional knowledge and dietary habits. There was a significant relationship between nutritional knowledge and dietary habits of the athlete-respondents (r = 0.3483 and p-value equal to 0.0011) thus, athletes who have higher level of nutritional knowledge also have better dietary habits. As a result, researchers have suggested that there is a need to continuously promote the importance of having proper nutrition information to athletes. Consultations with nutrition experts are highly recommended. Sports nutritionist of various Universities and Colleges should monitor nutrition status and dietary needs of the athletes, and it should be done throughout the year not just prior to competition.

Can the Technique of Knee Wrap Placement Affect the Maximal Isometric Force during Back Squat Exercise

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects on maximal isometric force with two different techniques of knee wraps placement (spiral and X) during back squat exercise Twenty-one physical active participants were evaluated during this study The back squat exercise position was set up individually, guaranteeing their thigh parallel to the floor, the arms crossed on the chest, and the feet were kept always in the same position for all trials and conditions All subjects performed three maximal isometric back squat contractions in 4 different conditions: without knee wrap (WKW), with spiral knee wrap technique (SKW), with X knee wrap technique (XKW) and tensor (T) The peak force was acquired at a 100Hz sampling frequency, during 3 seconds, 5 minutes of resting and all conditions were randomized The Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was evaluated after each trial and condition The results shows significant differences for peak force between conditions SKW vs WKW (P=0044, ES=055, Δ%=108%), and XKW vs WKW (P=0009, ES=062, Δ%=136%) The use of different knee wrap techniques (spiral and X techniques) presented an effective carry-over effect, but without differences between techniques, and the RPE was similar in all conditions

Predicting salaries of Major League Baseball players.

Abstract: This research examines the salaries of Major League Baseball (MLB) players and whether players are paid based on their on-the-field performance. A random sample of players was selected for each season between 2010 and 2012. Models were developed to predict the salaries based on a variety of production statistics. Different models were created for position players and pitchers. Significant production statistics that were helpful in predicting salary were selected for each model. Two models were developed for position players and two models were developed for pitchers. One of the models in each group considered yearly production statistics and the other model considered career production statistics. The models which considered yearly production statistics could be used to determine whether or not a player was underperforming in comparison to his salary for that year. These models could not be used for predicting salary for the year since yearly production statistics are unknown ahead of time. The two models based on career production statistics were deemed to be good predictive models since their predictive r-squared values were at least 0.68. The regression models developed were tested for accuracy by predicting the salaries of a random sample of players from the 2013 MLB season.

The Use and Effect of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids in Sports

Abstract: Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) were initially created for therapeutic purposes, and synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. Due its great anabolic effects, these drugs are being used on a large scale, for the improvement of sports performance. In this present study, we aim to show the history of it' use, present their mechanisms of action, more particularly its use correlate with improved body composition, muscle mass, aerobic capacity and verify their possible side effects, analyzing their use therapeutic and indiscriminate, through direct scientific research with the sports. Sources were reviewed scientific the following search engines: PUBMED, LILACS and SCIELO. The results showed that in presence of a suitable AAS and diet can contribute to increases in body weight, particularly lean body mass and muscle strength gains achieved by high intensity exercise, these effects can be further potentiated, the use of supraphysiological doses, but in the aspect of aerobic power, there are not scientific evidence to support their improvement. Regarding side effects, the use of AAS, is related to several complications in the liver, cardiovascular system, reproductive system and psychological characteristics, always assigned by the non-therapeutic and abuse of AAS. Thus we conclude that the use of AAS, are directly linked to gains muscle mass, strength, as well several side effects, always assigned to abusive and indiscriminate doses, it is noteworthy that the scientific literature, still has a certain lack of studies, mainly randomized, controlled, with supraphysiological doses in human, so many effects are still unknown.

Effects of Eurycoma longifolia on Natural Killer Cells and Endurance Running Performance

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the effects of Eurycoma longifolia (EL) supplementation on immune responses following endurance running in the heat. Nine healthy male recreational athletes (23.8 ± 4.1 years old) were recruited in this randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled, cross over study. Participants performed two trials in the heat (31°C, 70% relative humidity) on separate days. Before each trial, participants consumed 2 capsules of either EL (75 mg of EL per capsule) or placebo (P) for 7 days and another 2 capsules 1 h before the experimental trial. During each trial, participants performed warm-up on a treadmill at 50% VO2max for 5 min and followed by endurance running for 60 min at 60% VO2max. This was immediately followed by a time trial for 20 min. During each trial, blood samples were collected before the supplementation period, pre-exercise trial, and post-exercise trial. The data was analysed by using Two-way ANOVA with repeated measures. As a result, natural killer (NK) cells count was significantly higher (P = 0.02) at the end of the EL trial compared to the P trial (4.8 and 4.0 x 10 3 .dL -1 respectively). However, endurance running performance was not significantly different (P = 0.139) between EL and P trials (2.9 and 2.7 km respectively). Total white blood cells, monocytes, basophils, neutrophils, and eosinophils counts were also not significantly different (P > 0.05) between both trials. These observations suggest that EL may enhance immune functions after a bout of endurance running in the heat by increasing NK cells count.

Effect of Levels of Physical Activity on Pulmonary Function of Male Saudi University Students

Abstract: Objective: To assess levels of physical activity among Saudi male college students and to explore the possible effect of different levels of physical activity on their respiratory function. SubjectsandMethods: The present study included 400 Saudi male students at the Riyadh Colleges of Dentistry and Pharmacy, Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data about personal characteristics and self-reported level of physical activity and amount of leisure time spent as inactive, using the official Arabic short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Pulmonary function testing was performed using the standards outlined by the American Thoracic Society. Results:More than half of university students (54.5%) were physically inactive while 30.5% and 15% had moderate and high intensity physical activities, respectively. Pulmonary function measurements did not differ significantly according to students' age but differed significantly according to students' physical activity levels, with least values among students with low physical activity levels and highest values among students with high physical activity levels. Conclusions:Low physical activity is a common problem among male Saudi university students. Those who are physically active have better pulmonary function parameters.

Development and psychometric evaluation of the Sport Imagery Ability Questionnaire Thai version (SIAQt).

Abstract: Aiming to provide a useful tool to Thai researchers interested in sport imagery, the main goal of this study was to translate and to adapt to Thai culture the Sport Imagery Ability Questionnaire (SIAQ), as well to examine its psychometric properties. Therefore, the SIAQ was initially translated to Thai and back-translated to English. The back-translated version was compared with the original, and received small amendments in few items. After being established as an clear and comfortable instrument for Thai athletes, the SIAQ Thai version (SIAQt) was administered to a sample of 730 Thai athletes of diverse sports (67% males and 33% females, with a mean age of 19.7 (range 17-22) years and an average sport experience of 11.54 years), enrolled in physical education and sport science programs of Burapha University during the academic year 2011-2012, recruited by the method of random convenience sampling. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed that the 15 items of the 5-subscale structure found in the original version were replicated in the Thai version. The model adequately fits the data, and it was established for a final five-factor model: χ2 (80) = 328.07, p < 0.05, CFI = 0.98, TLI = 0.97, SRMR = 0.039, RMSEA = 0.065 (90% CI = 0.058-0.073). Likewise, the values exceed 0.90 for the reliability score and were similar to the original version. Thus, the Thai version of the SIAQ presents the same factor structure as the original and exhibits similar psychometric properties. Consequently, from a practical standpoint, the findings reported in this investigation indicate that the Thai version of the SIAQ could be reliably used to evaluate the imagery abilities of the Thai athletes for research and applied purposes.

High Intensity Interval Training: Cardiorespiratory Adaptations, Metabolic and Performance

Abstract: High Intensity Interval Training (IT) involves repeating maximum and/or supramaximal sprints for short and/or long periods (≥ 90 – 120% of the maximum oxygen consumption speed [vVO2max]; ≥ the Maximal Lactate Steady State [MLSS]) separated by recovery periods, which may be passive or by performing exercises in moderate intensity (passive and active pausing, respectively). However, such cardiorespiratory, metabolic, morphological, and performance adaptations depend on manipulating acute variables which guide the continuous training process, including volume, intensity, different times and types of recovery between series, and weekly training schedule. With this in mind, the study aimed to review and discuss various results investigating the effects of TI in cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and performance parameters in athletes and physically active individuals. The most relevant original scientific studies as of September, 2015, were analyzed, using the following databases: Science Citation, Index, Scopus, Sport Discus, The Scielo, and National Library of Medicine, combining the following keywords: endurance training, running training, recovery, repeated sprint, high intensity, speed endurance, interval training, anaerobic, and rest interval. It has been concluded literature has not clearly demonstrated the best combination of training variables, which allow for better efficiency in increasing cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and performance parameters. Most studies have showing effort intensity, when close to maximum cardiorespiratory capacity, results in increased stress and, therefore, greater cardiorespiratory and metabolic adaptations.

Acute Effects of Stretching Routines with and without Rest Intervals between Sets in the Bounce Drop Jump Performance

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of static-stretching (SS) session with (intermittent) and without (continuous) rest intervals between sets on the bounce drop jump performance, with the same volume and intensity The experimental protocol consisted of (1) a brief warm-up using sub-maximal jumps; (2) a pre-SS evaluation (passive ankle ROM and three trials of maximal single-leg jumping task for each lower limb); (3) ankle plantar flexors SS protocol (intermittent or continuous) was used only for a single-lower limb; (4) immediate post-SS evaluation (passive ankle ROM and three trials of maximal single-leg jumping task for the stretched lower limb) Then, subjects rest for 30 minutes and the topics 3-4 were repeated with the other lower limb and stretching protocol The intensity used for both stretching protocols was between 70-90% of the point of discomfort There were significant decrease in jumping height performance for both stretching protocols: continuous (P=0001) and intermittent (P=0006) There were significant increase in contact time only for the continuous protocol (P=0025) Our findings indicated that both stretching protocols (intermittent or continuous) were effective to increase the passive ankle ROM, and to decrease the single-leg jump height, however only the continuous SS protocol showed increases in the contact time

Reference Values for Six Minute Walk Distance in Apparently Healthy Young Nigerian Adults (Age 18-35 Years)

Abstract: Background and objectives: Six-Minute Walk Test is a physical performance assessment tool. However, limited data on normative values for Six-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) is a significant shortcoming. This study established reference values for 6MWD in apparently healthy Nigerian young adults. In addition, the study investigated the influence of demographic and anthropometric variables on 6MWD and the cardiovascular response and Perceived Rate of Exertion (PRE) to 6MWT. Materials and Methods: 618 apparently healthy individuals volunteered for this study. 6MWT was conducted according to the American Thoracic Society protocol. Pre and post 6MWT cardiovascular parameters were measured using automated Omron device. PRE was assessed using the Modified Borg Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Alpha level was set at 0.05. Results: The mean age and 6MWD of the participants was 23.2 ±3.58 years and 619.41±125.76m respectively. 6MWD differed significantly across age groups (F = 5.050; p = 0.001) with males having higher mean 6MWD than the females (608.2±207.79m vs. 565.9±69.49m; t = 2.201, p=0.028). Using percentile cut-points, less than 25 th , between 25th and 75 th , and greater than 75th percentile were regarded as low, average and high 6MWD respectively. Overall, low, average and high 6MWD were 562.7, 562.7-660.1, 660.1 respectively. SBP, DBP, and HR significantly (p 0.05) to 6MWT. There were significant relationship between 6MWD and each of demographic and anthropometric variables (p<0.05) except for the weight and LBM. Conclusions: This study provided reference values for the 6MWD in apparently healthy adults in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The mean 6MWD obtained in this study was within the range for normal adults as reported in literature. Socio-demographical and anthropometrical variables have significant influence on the performance of 6MWT. 6MWT evoked significant cardiovascular response and exertion in apparently healthy adults.

Predicting Results of March Madness Using the Probability Self-Consistent Method

Abstract: This paper proposes a new bracketing tool for all the 63 games in the last 6 rounds of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. Our new method is based on a binomial generalized linear regression model with Cauchy link on the conditional probability of a team winning a game given its rival team. It uses publicly available team ratings and game statistics prior to the March Madness. The new method is compared to three existing methods currently used to help complete March Madness brackets. The three existing methods include bracketing based on RPI ratings (RPI, 2014); bracketing based on Pomeroy ratings (Pomeroy, 2014) which use the Pythoagrean winning expectation; and bracketing based on estimated probabilities from a model developed using the restricted OLRE method proposed by West (2006, 2008). It is expected that our method will do better than West’s method since the OLRE method does not take into account which teams actually play each other. It is also expected that the proposed method will do better than using Pomeroys’s ratings or RPI ratings since Pomeroy’s ratings have done better than RPI ratings (Pomeroy, 2014) and our method also uses the Pythgorean winning expectation in which Pomeroy’s ratings are based. Nine years of March Madness data from 2002 to 2010 is used to develop models for both the OLRE method and our new proposed method. The four methods are tested using data from March Madness 2012, 2013, and 2014. Overall, our method did better than the other three methods in predicting March Madness winners, particularly when the double scoring system is used.

Prevalence of various diving related health problems in SCUBA divers.

Abstract: There is a dearth of scientific studies on some common health related problems as sea sickness and headache that do not pose any immediate danger to a diver’s life. However, these problems are ruining the diving holidays of numerous people and may also lead to other life threatening situations like drowning.Present study is aimed to outline prevalent health problems in SCUBA divers and if these problems are associated with frequency of diving, certification level, age, experience, and some other pre-existing medical conditions of a diver?An electronic questionnaire was prepared using the Google form application feature of the Google. The questionnaire contained multiple questions on pre-existing illness and most common diving related health problems experienced by divers. Through a social networking site, responses of divers were collected. A total of forty seven divers responded. Calculations were performed using the Chi square test.Pain in the ear was the most prevalent problem, experienced by 35% divers, followed by headache (21% divers) and sea sickness (17% divers). Most common problem for divers was pain in the ear (25% divers), sea sickness (15%), and headache (8%). These problems were not found associated with frequency of diving, certification level, number of dives, age of the diver, and some pre existing medical conditions, except pain in the ear that was found associated with pre existing medical conditions (motion sickness, any form of respiratory discomfort, panic attack & phobias, recurrent ear problems, and migraine headaches).Present study reveals that sea sickness is very common among the divers, thus it requires greater scientific attention. As expected, pain in the ear, turned out to be the most common problem experienced by the divers. However, experience and certification level of a diver did not improve a diver’s ability to handle this problem. This indicates that present equalization techniques require amelioration.

Exercise Motivation Predicts Differences in Exercise Intensity with a Small Versus Large Caloric "Payoff"

Abstract: The hypothesis that exercise motivation among women predicts differences in exercise intensity for a small versus a large caloric outcome was tested. A sample of 65 female participants was assigned on each of two counterbalanced days to exercise at their own pace on an exercise bike for 10 min. On one day they were assured of a large caloric payoff (burn 40 calories per 100 rotations) and on the second day they were assured of a small caloric payoff (burn 10 calories per 100 rotations). The difference in distance traveled on the bike each day was recorded and used as a measure of exercise intensity. A multiple regression analysis with subscales of exercise motivation (14 levels) as the predictor variables and exercise intensity as the criterion variable was computed. Results showed that exercise motivation subscales predicted differences in exercise intensity: social recognition and stress management motivation predicted greater exercise intensity for the easier large caloric outcome; challenge and strength and endurance motivation predicted greater exercise intensity for the more difficult small caloric outcome. Results suggest that considering "what" specifically motivates women to exercise (and not just "whether or not" they are motivated to exercise) is important and can mediate increased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among women.

Acute Changes in Soluble Cell Adhesion Molecules Following Different Intensities of Resistance Exercise

Abstract: The current study examined the effects of lower- and higher-intensity resistance exercise on acute changes in soluble cell adhesion molecules. In a cross-over design, 10 recreationally-trained college-aged men performed resistance exercises at two different intensities in random order (lower-intensity: 50% of 1-RM and higher-intensity: 80% of 1-RM). Overnight fasting blood samples were analysed for soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) at baseline, 3-hr, 24-hr, and 48-hr post exercise (PE). sICAM-1 at 48-hr PE (364.85 ± 34.40 ng/ml) significantly (p = .037) decreased from 3-hr PE (425.60 ± 36.71 ng/ml) during the higher-intensity exercise trial. sVCAM-1 at 24-hr following the lower-intensity exercise trial (715.70 ± 38.14 ng/ml) significantly (p = .001) increased by 24% from baseline and remained elevated up to 48-hr PE (716.32 ± 34.79 ng/ml). The current study suggests that higher-intensity resistance exercise does not negatively affect cell adhesion molecules in recreationally-trained men, but it may help improve cardiovascular health by decreasing sICAM-1 without altering sVCAM-1.

The Influence of Imposed Optic Flow on Basketball Shooting Performance and Postural Sway

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the influence of imposed optic flow on basketball shooting performance and postural sway Thirty-four participants each performed 96 basketball shots, half in the presence of imposed optic flow, and half in a static visual environment Imposed optic flow was generated using a moving background behind the basket that translated horizontally as participants shot Participants stood on a force plate while shooting to allow for the measurement of postural sway via recording center of pressure (CoP) position and computing the range in the anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) axes Imposed optic flow caused a reduction in basketball shooting percentage from 567 to 521 (p = 006) (-822%) Imposed optic flow caused a reduction in shooting score from 315 to 305 (p = 007) (-317%) Imposed optic flow had no effect on CoP position range in either the anterior-posterior (p = 990) or medial-lateral (p = 678) axes Imposed optic flow negatively impacted shooting performance, but for reasons other than by causing postural instability The possible effect of imposed optic flow on aiming, visual attention and gaze are discussed

Indicators of Anaerobic Capacity and Muscular Performance in Malay Female Athletes and Non-Athletes with ACE Gene I/D Polymorphism

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of our study was to examine the association between the ACE I/D polymorphism, muscular strength and power, anaerobic capacity and fatigue index (FI) of athletes and non-athletes in Malay female population Methods: Thirty three Malay female athletes who were university representative in Malaysia, and 33 Malay non-athletes were recruited in this study (aged 18-25 years old) Participants' hand grip strength and back and leg strength tests were performed Meanwhile standing long jump power test was performed to estimate leg explosive power Additionally, participants' Wingate mean power, peak power, anaerobic capacity, anaerobic power and FI were measured via Wingate test Results: The frequency of II, ID and DD genotypes among athletes was 212% (n=7), 636% (n=21) and 152% (n=5) respectively, while that among non-athletes was 485% (n=16), 394% (n=13) and 121% (n=4) respectively Athletes with ID genotype showed statistically significant greater jumping distance as indicator of explosive leg power compared to athletes with DD genotype (1548 ± 166 cm versus 1300 ± 238 cm, p=0034) In athletes with DD genotype, it was found that there was statistically significant lower FI when compared to athletes with II and ID genotypes respectively (DD genotype: 63 ± 20 Watt·sec -1 ; II genotype: 96 ± 18 Watt·sec -1 ; ID genotype: 96 ± 14 Watt·sec -1 , p<001) Conclusions: The present study findings showed that ACE ID genotype is related to greater jump power and DD genotype is related to lower FI in Malay female athletes

An Examination of Coping with Career Ending Injuries: An NCAA Division I and NCAA Division III Comparison

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to qualitatively examine and compare the coping strategies and injury impact of NCAA Division I and III athletes who have sustained a career ending injury. Data was analyzed using a 4-step phenomenological method. Emerging themes were a) emotional response to injury, b) redefining identity, c) adopting a coping strategy, and d) feelings of unpreparedness to cope with transition. NCAA Division I athletes experienced more negative emotions than Division III athletes. All NCAA athletes adopted strategies to cope with the transition out of sport. The majority of participants felt unprepared to cope with this transition.

Remotely-Guided Feedback Enhances Exercise Training Adherence and Physical Performance in Firefighters

Abstract: This study examined the influence of guided, individualized text message-based feedback (GTF) versus unguided, generic text message-based feedback (UTF) on adherence to an exercise training protocol and select physical performance parameters in a cohort of firefighters. Over one month, firefighters at two separate fire departments (n=16) donned wearable physiological status monitors (PSMs) and engaged in unsupervised aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes three times weekly. Self-administered baseline measures included body mass (BM), body fat percentage (%BF), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) derived from a standard firefighter treadmill protocol. Data was remotely captured from the participants while exercising, securely transferred and processed using a digital health network (DHN). Firefighters were randomized into two groups: those that received GTF and those that received UTF. According to the discretion of the investigators, appropriate text message-based feedback was sent depending on participant group and individual exercise performance. Multiple metrics were monitored during training including heart rate, time in a target heart rate zone (%THRZ) and % adherence to training (%ADHR). The GTF group showed greater increases in exercise time, %THRZ, and %ADHR in conjunction with, decreased BM and BF%, and greater improvements in VO2max. All reported p-values were p<0.01. This study shows that GTF resulted in greater adherence to exercise training and improved fitness measures in firefighters over UTF.

Nutritional Profile of Triathletes in a Week before a National Competition

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional profile of triathletes in the week prior to a triathlon national event. Study participants were 08 triathletes of both sexes, who carried out the 10th edition of SESC-Triathlon National Circuit, Sprint and Olympic, in the city of Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. The consumption of energy and macronutrients were evaluated by self-report of 03 food records in the previous week of the national competition, in which two should be conducted during the week and on days that had at least one of the modes of triathlon and the third nutrition survey must necessarily be filled in the day before the competition. The body mass found was 72.7kg±11.1 kg. The triathletes energy intake was adequate (31.8±5.5 kcal.kg -1 /day), whereas there was a low carbohydrate intake to 75% of participants, with an average consumption of 4.6±0.9 g.kg -1 /day. The protein intake remained within the recommendation (1.3±0.2 g.kg -1 /day) with 62.5% of athletes showing adequacy. The fat intake has remained above recommended levels, with an average intake of 2.9±0.5g.kg -1 /day. The elevated intake of this nutrient was seen occur in 37.5% of participants. It could be concluded that athletes have nutritional inadequacies and that consumption of carbohydrate in the days preceding the exercise was not correlated to the competition time for the athletes evaluated.

Relationships between Extraversion and Measures of Counter Movement Jump Performance

Abstract: Previous research has identified a positive relationship between athletic performance and the personality trait of extraversion. In addition, previous research has demonstrated that a higher degree of extraversion has been associated with a faster movement time during reactionary tasks. To date, previous research has not examined if these observed relationships occur during a sport-related movement, such as a counter movement jump (CMJ). If a relationship between extraversion and CMJ performance were to exist, this may provide mechanistic reasoning for the previously identified relationship to athletic performance. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between extraversion and CMJ performance. Twenty-nine (22.6 ± 2.3 yrs) recreationally-active females volunteered to participate in this study (63.7 ± 8.2 kg; 166.4 ± 6.6 cm). The degree of extraversion was measured via the Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) and CMJ performance was measured using a Myotest® Sport unit. Bivariate Pearson correlations were utilized to examine the relationship between extraversion and CMJ performance. Extraversion was not significantly correlated with any measures of CMJ performance (p> .05). These results suggest that the previously observed relationship between extraversion and athletic performance is not attributed to a relationship between extraversion and CMJ performance. Rather, it is possible that individuals who exhibit a high degree of extraversion may utilize different coping skills or motivational sources in order to achieve greater athletic performance than individuals who exhibit a lower degree of extraversion. In addition, a different underlying physiological mechanism may still remain unidentified.

Glycemic and Blood Lactate Response to Maximal Incremental Treadmill Test

Abstract: During the incremental test, after reaching the anaerobic threshold, the lactate concentration increases exponentially. Additionally, the blood glycemia changes with the intensity and duration of the exercise. The present study aimed to verify the lactate and glycemic responses to a maximal incremental non-incline treadmill test. For that, 17 individuals, volunteers, were submitted to an incremental treadmill test, with an initial speed of 5 km/h and 1 km/h increments every minute, with no inclination. Before the tests, the volunteers consumed a breakfast meal containing 60.61% carbohydrate, 12.91% protein and 26.48% lipids. For the analysis of the blood lactate, were collected two blood samples: at rest and from 3 to 5 minutes after the test. For the analysis of the blood glycemia, were collected three blood samples: fasting, at rest 15 minutes after the provided meal, and from 3 to 5 minutes after the test. The Shapiro Wilk test was used to verify the normality of the data. For the lactate analysis, was applied the student’s t-test. For the glycemia analysis, was applied the ANOVA for repeated measures, with post hoc Bonferroni. The level of significance of the study was p < 0.05. The results indicated a significant increase in the lactate after the exercise (p = 0.002). The glycemia increased significantly after the exercise in relation to the fast (p = 0.015) and the rest (p = 0.042). Therefore, the maximal incremental in a non-incline treadmill test was capable of increasing significantly the lactate concentration and the blood glycemia.

Impact of Muscle Strength and Sport Technique on Throwing Distance of Balls of Various Weights with a Dominant Arm

Abstract: The respondent sample for researching the impact of force, strength and sport technique on the throwing distance of balls of various weights (a 350 g handball, an 800 g handball and 3 kg handball) with a dominant arm was composed of 54 male members of youth handball school, aged between 16 and 17. In order to estimate force and strength, 11 tests were used - seven dynamometer ones used to measure the force of musculature activated during the throw (back, stomach, inner rotators of the shoulder joint and hand flexor muscles) and four repetitive maximum tests to estimate the absolute strength of those muscles (Bench Press, Shoulder Press, Pull Over and Lat Machine). Three experts estimated the level of handball technique during a session of handball tossing and catching in pairs of two. In order to estimate the sample homogeneity, the respondents were measured for body mass and height to obtain a body mass index (BMI). Regression analysis (Stepwise model) was used to estimate an impact of myogenic abilities and technique on throwing distance. It was established that with an increase of external resistance (throwing increasingly heavier balls) the role of force increases with a proportional decrease of impact of technique. Body mass was the most stable predictor of throwing length of any kind of ball. It existed in all regression models and most parameters of force and strength have indirectly affected dependable variables through it. The next most frequent predictor was handball technique. It showed to be significant during the use of two lighter balls, i.e. overcoming lesser external resistance and it was not present in the regression model for predicting the throwing length of the heaviest ball. Only inner rotators in shoulder joint were found to have a direct impact on throwing length, independent of body mass. It was found that the use of balls heavier than handball (up to 800 g) does not only represent a form of dynamic strength training, but that it can also be applied as a specific model of proprioceptive training for improving the handball technique.