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Topic Review
Biomechanics of Table Tennis
Table tennis is a popular recreational and competitive sports at all levels. Recent research on table tennis maneuvers identified the differences between playing levels and between maneuvers using parameters which included ball and racket speed, joint kinematics and kinetics, electromyography, and plantar pressure distribution. Different maneuvers underlined changes on body posture and lines of movement which were accommodated particularly by the racket face angle, trunk rotation, knee and elbow joint movements, and thus different contributions of muscles. Higher-level players produced ball and strike at higher accuracy and repeatability but not necessarily lead to higher speed. In addition, higher-level players utilize superior whole-body coordination and footwork to compromise between agility and stability for a quality strike. Strengthening shoulder and wrist muscles could enhance the speed of the strike while personalized training shall be considered since motor coordination and adaptation vary among individuals.
  • 10.3K
  • 29 Oct 2020
Topic Review
Bodybuilding and Myostatin
MSTN is a gene that makes instructions for producing the protein myostatin, a protein that is part of the transforming growth factor beta family (TGFβ). The TGFβ family of proteins control the growth of tissues in the body, myostatin is found nearly exclusively in the skeletal muscles where it is active before and after birth. The protein actually controls skeletal growth by restraining it, preventing muscles becoming excessively large. Current research that surrounds myostatin is based around its potential treatment in muscle wasting disorders, animals that have mutations in the encoding gene MSTN show greater muscle mass, strength and in some circumstances reduced bodyfat, which can be known as myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy. This study aimed to see the prevalence of mutations in the male bodybuilder population (n = 92) and if having a mutation had any affect on their muscle size and/or muscle performance. The study which looked at mutation prevalence in rs1805086, arm circumference, pull-up max and push-up max. The results show that 17% (16) of the subject group had one mutation (AG), 83% (76) had the common outcome (AA) and 0% (0) had two mutations (GG). Those with the AG outcome had an average arm circumference of 46.37cmcompared with AA which had an average of 42.02cm. Those with the AG outcome had an average pull-up max score of 21 compared with AA with an average of 12. Those with the AG outcome had an average push-up max of 61 compared with AA with an average of 40. The study clearly shows that those with a mutation are rare, however the mutation does appear to give the subject a performance and size advantage over those with the common outcome.
  • 6.5K
  • 03 Nov 2020
Topic Review
Football Goalkeeper Injuries
Knowledge and research about football goalkeeper (GK) injuries are scarce, which prevents the development of evidence-based injury prevention programs. Fortunately, progress is evident in injury prevention strategies in outfield football players. However, a GK fulfills a unique role, and an injured GK can substantially impact a team. Thus, there is a need to clarify and summarize current knowledge concerning football goalkeeper pain and injuries.
  • 4.8K
  • 31 May 2021
Topic Review
Effects of Exercise on the Autonomic Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) has an important impact on health in general. In response to environmental demands, homeostatic processes are often compromised, therefore determining an increase in the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)’s functions and a decrease in the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS)’s functions.
  • 4.3K
  • 21 Feb 2022
Topic Review
Nonparametric Limits of Agreement
The assessment of agreement in method comparison and observer variability analysis of quantitative measurements is usually done by the Bland-Altman Limits of Agreement, where the paired differences are implicitly assumed to follow a normal distribution. Whenever this assumption does not hold, the 2.5% and 97.5% percentiles are obtained by quantile estimation. In the literature, empirical quantiles have been used for this purpose. In this simulation study, we applied both sample, subsampling, and kernel quantile estimators as well as other methods for quantile estimation to sample sizes between 30 and 150 and different distributions of the paired differences. The performance of 15 estimators in generating prediction intervals was measured by their respective coverage probability for one newly generated observation. Our results indicated that sample quantile estimators based on one or two order statistics outperformed all the other estimators and can be used for deriving nonparametric Limits of Agreement. For sample sizes exceeding 80 observations, more advanced quantile estimators, such as the Harrell-Davis and estimators of Sfakianakis-Verginis type, which use all the observed differences, performed likewise well, but may be considered intuitively more appealing than simple sample quantile estimators that are based on only two observations per quantile.
  • 3.4K
  • 27 Oct 2020
Topic Review
Physical Activity Patterns
Although “physical activity pattern” (PAP) is a widely used expression, its precise meaning remains vague. Indeed, PAP is sometimes used to describe physical activity (PA) levels/intensities, however the term is also applied to express how PA averages differ among group,  between different days (i.e., week and weekend days), across seasons (e.g., summer, winter), and between school and vacation time. A lack of a formal definition for PAP has not prevented researchers from using a vast array of instruments to measure PA (accelerometers, pedometers, questionnaires, direct observations, and heart rate monitors) in an attempt to capture PAP. Discrepancies also exist in how PAP has been expressed with researchers using daily mean PA, heart rate frequency, number of daily steps, time engaged in certain types of activity, and/or engagement in sports activities. Researchers have also used numerous statistical procedures in their attempts to capture PAP. Notwithstanding this diversity, we suggest that PAP should be used to jointly capture similarities/dissimilarities as well as stabilities/changes in children’s PA at an intra-personal level. PAP should be used to best describe individual streams of behaviours, and not exclusively PA levels/intensities. A formal and clear definition of PAP would support important, systematic, and coherent lines of empirical enquiry.
  • 3.1K
  • 24 Apr 2021
Topic Review
Instability
Research in instability has focused on the analysis of muscle activation. This systematic entry was to analyze the effects of unstable devices on speed, strength and muscle power measurements administered in the form of controlled trials to healthy individuals in adulthood. 
  • 2.8K
  • 27 Jan 2022
Topic Review
N-Acetylcysteine
Exercise frequently alters the metabolic processes of oxidative metabolism in athletes, including exposure to extreme reactive oxygen species impairing exercise performance. Therefore, both researchers and athletes have been consistently investigating the possible strategies to improve metabolic adaptations to exercise-induced oxidative stress. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been applied as a therapeutic agent in treating many diseases in humans due to its precursory role in the production of hepatic glutathione, a natural antioxidant.
  • 2.5K
  • 03 Feb 2021
Topic Review
Electromyography in Sports
Muscular alterations as a consequence of hypoxic situations contribute not only to a decrease in life expectancy but also to a lower quality of life and health status. Our perspective, based on the results of this systematic review, is that Electromyography (EMG) is a suitable tool for monitoring the different skeletal muscle responses and has sufficient sensitivity to detect the muscle changes produced by hypoxic stimuli. Therefore, surface EMG (sEMG) maybe provide a practical point-of-care diagnostic test for medical diagnoses as well as a tool to improve sports performance. integrated EMG (iEMG) studies the physiology and pathology of denervation, re-innervation, and various myopathies. It also analyzes deep musculature such as muscular behavior, temporal activity patterns, fatigue, and muscular activation. sEMG is suitable for providing information about global muscle behavior, temporal activity patterns, muscle fatigue, and the activation level of the superficial musculature.
  • 2.5K
  • 15 Jan 2021
Topic Review
Born Equal: Can Genetics Make the Perfect Athlete?
Thanks to the dawn of accessible science to map the human genome and the research that is poured into it, genetics are playing a larger role in elite sports. Genetics have a large influence over many attributes necessary for athletic excellence such as strength, muscle size, muscle fibre composition, anaerobic threshold, lung capacity, and flexibility. The aim of the study was to analyse a large database of athletes, comparing their chosen sports and the level that they play. Analysis of the individuals will include genotypes in six heavily studied genes attributed to athlete potential: ACTN3, MSTN, NOS3, ACE, AMPD1 and TRHR. A combination of both nurture and nature will always be required to bring the most out of an individual, however it would be naïve to ignore natural gifts. Genotypes may give an advantage to certain individuals but the lines between which genotype bring the most benefits is blurred, certain genotypes such as those found in MSTN are very uncommon but have very high affinity for power sports and bodybuilding. Other genes such as the once hailed “sports gene” ACTN3 have far more varied distribution and no particular athlete appeared to be hampered from any genotype, however the C allele did have affinity towards strength and power. From the six analysed genes in the study both power/strength athletes and bodybuilders had completed genotype affinity, however these genes seem to have less impact on those that compete in endurance/stamina sports. The  ACTN3 C allele, MSTN G allele, NOS3 T allele, ACE II, AMPD1 C allele and TRHR C allele all show affinity towards power, strength and/or bodybuilding athletes, only the NOS3 C allele showed a true affinity towards endurance/stamina sports. 
  • 2.5K
  • 13 Aug 2022
Topic Review
Spinal-Deformities and Advancement in Corrective-Orthoses
Spinal deformity is an abnormality in the spinal curves and can seriously affect the activities of daily life. The conventional way to treat spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, kyphosis, and spondylolisthesis, is to use spinal orthoses (braces). Braces have been used for centuries to apply corrective forces to the spine to treat spinal deformities or to stabilize the spine during postoperative rehabilitation. Braces have not modernized with advancements in technology, and very few braces are equipped with smart sensory design and active actuation. There is a need to enable the orthotists, ergonomics practitioners, and developers to incorporate new technologies into the passive field of bracing. 
  • 2.1K
  • 30 Jan 2021
Topic Review
Psychosocial Effects of Taekwondo Training
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and international sport, and its psychosocial benefits for its trainees have been studied extensively.  Significant positive effects of Taekwondo training were found on sociality, character, etiquette, and school life adjustment.
  • 2.1K
  • 23 Nov 2021
Topic Review
Physiotherapy treatment for Dysphagia
Dysphagia (DP) is a condition characterised by the loss of swallowing function, due to the alteration of the oral route and of the pharyngeal and esopharyngeal phases, hindering or impeding the passage of the alimentary bolus from the mouth to the stomach. DP affects 13% of people over 65 years of age and approximately 33% of people over 80 years of age, although it has a prevalence of 55% after a stroke. The most common complications associated with this disorder are: suffocation, aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition and decreased physical activity; these must be addressed with special care and individually.
  • 2.0K
  • 27 Oct 2020
Topic Review
Biomechanical Factors in Track and Field Sprint Start
In athletics sprint events, the block start performance can be fundamental to the outcome of a race. Several biomechanical determinants of sprinters have been identified. In the “Set” position, an anthropometry-driven block setting facilitating the hip extension and a rear leg contribution should be encouraged. At the push-off, a rapid extension of both hips and greater force production seems to be important. After block exiting, shorter flight times and greater propulsive forces are the main features of best sprinters. 
  • 1.7K
  • 13 Apr 2022
Topic Review
Tools to Monitor Neuromuscular Fatigue
Neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) is a reduction in the maximal voluntary force induced by exercise, with neuromuscular function changes that are due to repeated or sustained muscular contraction, and that are produced either at the peripheral or central levels, and that can be detected for upwards of 48 h to an extended period. An accumulation of work or an incomplete force restoration can significantly influence the neuromuscular performance in both the short and long terms. Thus, fatigue management is essential for controlling the training adaptations of athletes and reducing their susceptibility to injury and illness. The main individualized monitoring tools used to describe fatigue are questionnaires and subjective assessments of fatigue, biochemical markers, sprint tests, and vertical jump tests. Among the subjective measures, the rating of the perceived exertion has been widely used because of its simplicity and high validity. In terms of the objective measures, one of the more frequently employed tools by practitioners to assess neuromuscular fatigue is the countermovement jump. Because of its high validity and reliability, it is accepted as the reference standard test in sports, in general, and particularly in team sports. 
  • 1.6K
  • 05 May 2022
Topic Review
Taekwondo Training and Obesity
Taekwondo training is an effective exercise that can prevent or positively improve obesity. In addition, Taekwondo has value as a lifestyle sport that can contribute to the promotion of human health, not just bounded in the field of martial arts and sports.
  • 1.4K
  • 24 Nov 2021
Topic Review
Sports performance and systems theories
The purpose is to present a brief idea about the understanding of sports performance through the lens of systems theories.
  • 1.4K
  • 26 Oct 2020
Topic Review
Infrared Radiation in Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions
Infrared radiation (IR), also known as infrared light, consists of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths but shorter than microwave radiation and longer than visible light (750 nm to 1 mm). IR derives from thermal energy; hence, material bodies emitting heat can produce it. Higher temperatures lead to the production of higher amounts of IR of higher frequency and shorter wavelength. IR consists of a promising complementary treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including knee osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain, chronic myofascial syndrome, sacroiliitis, and Gulf War Illness. Infrared therapy can be delivered with light-emitting devices (photobiomodulation), wires, ceramic materials, and IR saunas. In a number of studies, infrared therapy has also been associated with clinical and perceptual improvement in chronic-pain-related psychosomatic symptoms such as fatigue and insomnia. 
  • 1.4K
  • 25 Mar 2022
Topic Review Peer Reviewed
Pyramidal Systems in Resistance Training
Pyramidal systems refer to a particular type of resistance training in which sets are performed with increasing (or decreasing) weight, in such a way that the number of repetitions is low when the weight is high (and vice versa). Multiple implementations exist such as the light-to-heavy, triangle or asymmetric triangle system. They are similar to traditional training, but with slightly different impact on training volume, endurance or power outcome. Therefore, pyramidal systems are ideal candidates for practitioners willing to tune their training routine. 
  • 1.3K
  • 18 Apr 2022
Topic Review
Judo-Specific Training
Reaching peak judo performance requires the optimal development of technical-tactical, physical, physiological and psychological abilities. High-intensity interval training (HIIT), including general and specific movements, is a training method often used in judo to simultaneously improve multiple aspects of performance. Combat simulation (randori) or throwing technique exercises (uchi-komi, technique repetition without throwing the partner and nage-komi, throwing technique repetition throwing the partner) as specific training methods are regularly used in judo. HIIT using uchi-komi as exercise and performed in all-out mode improves anaerobic and aerobic fitness while allowing technical skill development for judo athletes.
  • 1.3K
  • 05 Nov 2020
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