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The purpose of this study was to assess the immediate effect of video feedback on the regulation and control of the standing back tuck somersault in the absence of vision. Two groups of male parkour athletes performed the standing back tuck somersault under both open and closed eyes conditions. The first group received video feedback, while the second group received verbal feedback. Concurrent analysis, including kinetic data from a force plate (Kistler Quattro-Jump) and kinematic data in two-dimensional by Kinovea freeware, was employed for motion and technical performance analysis. The results indicate that the loss of vision during the standing back tuck somersault affected only the take-off and ungrouping angle, as well as the vertical velocity and displacement. These effects were consistent regardless of the type of feedback provided (i.e., video feedback or verbal feedback). Furthermore, a significant Vision × Feedback interaction was observed at the level of technical performance. This suggests that the use of video feedback enabled the parkour athletes to maintain a high level of technical performance both with and without vision (i.e., 13.56 vs. 13.00 points, respectively, p >.05 and d = 2.233). However, the verbal feedback group technical performance declined significantly under the no-vision condition compared with the vision condition (13.14 vs. 10.25 points, respectively, with and without vision, p <.001 and d = 2.382). We concluded that when the movement is proprioceptively controlled (i.e., without vision), the video feedback enables the athletes to globally assess the technical deficiencies arising from the lack of vision and to correct them. These findings are discussed based on parkour athletes' ability to evaluate the kinematic parameters of the movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The acute effects of static stretching (SS) on dynamic balance, a key fitness component that contributes to injury prevention, has been a subject of significant debate. This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of short-duration SS exercises on dynamic balance following different recovery durations in youth female volleyball players. Methods: Thirteen volunteers U-14 female players were included. Eight random assessments were carried-out on separate days. They consisted of 2D-kinematic analysis of frontal and/or sagittal balance of the center of mass (COM) displacement, velocity, and acceleration on wobble board conducted without SS, immediately after and following 2 and 10 minutes of SS. Results: Repeated-measures ANOVA showed a significant difference between conditions in the velocity (p = 0.002 to 0.049; d = 0.844 to 2.200) and the acceleration (p = 0.014 to 0.021; d = 1.532 to 1.657) of the COM in both frontal and sagittal planes sway. Post-hoc analysis revealed decreased COM velocity (p = 0.001 to 0.030; d = 2.501 to 6.750) and acceleration (p = 0.001 to 0.030; d = 2.501 to 6.750) in the frontal plane, regardless of the recovery time. The most prominent decrease in both parameters was observed immediately after SS (p = 0.001 to 0.013; d = 2.907 to 6.750). However, in the sagittal balance, we observed an immediate increase in COM acceleration following SS (p < 0.001; d = 4.223). Conclusion: Short-duration SS leads to improved dynamic balance, particularly on the frontal plane, with the most favorable effect observed immediately after stretching. Practically speaking, short-duration SS appears to be an effective exercise modality for inducing acute enhancements in dynamic balance among youth female volleyball players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Changing from a static to a dynamic balance condition could affect the performance of a cognitive task such as mental rotation. Thus, the main goal of this study is to investigate aspects of visual-spatial cognition between two non-contact sports (i.e., badminton and volleyball) in different upright conditions (i.e., standing position, frontal balance, and sagittal balance). Methods: Thirty-five volunteer female sports and physical education students, fourteen specialists in badminton and twenty-one specialists in volleyball agreed to participate in this study. Each of the assessments was a 3D cube mental rotation task with and/or without balance exercises (i.e., frontal and/or sagittal balance) on a wobble board. Five stimuli were used in the mental rotation task (i.e., 45°, 135°, 180°, 225° and 315° for objected-based cube condition with egocentric transformation) which included pairs of standard and comparison images. Results: The findings indicate that there was a notable decrease (p < 0.001; d = 1.745) in response time in both dynamic balance conditions (i.e., frontal and sagittal balance) compared to standing position condition. In addition, results revealed significant interaction between balance conditions (i.e., frontal and/or sagittal balance) and groups (i.e., badminton and volleyball) in the response time at 225° angle and in the error percentage. Conclusions: In sum, dynamic balance is also an activity that involves mental manipulation of objects in 3D space, which can enhance badminton and volleyball female players' ability to rotate 3D cube stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Changing from a static to a dynamic balance condition could affect the performance of a cognitive task such as mental rotation. Thus, the main goal of this study is to investigate aspects of visual-spatial cognition between two non-contact sports (i.e., badminton and volleyball) in different upright conditions (i.e., standing position, frontal balance, and sagittal balance). Methods: Thirty-five volunteer female sports and physical education students, fourteen specialists in badminton and twenty-one specialists in volleyball agreed to participate in this study. Each of the assessments was a 3D cube mental rotation task with and/or without balance exercises (i.e., frontal and/or sagittal balance) on a wobble board. Five stimuli were used in the mental rotation task (i.e., 45°, 135°, 180°, 225° and 315° for objected-based cube condition with egocentric transformation) which included pairs of standard and comparison images. Results: The findings indicate that there was a notable decrease (p < 0.001; d = 1.745) in response time in both dynamic balance conditions (i.e., frontal and sagittal balance) compared to standing position condition. In addition, results revealed significant interaction between balance conditions (i.e., frontal and/or sagittal balance) and groups (i.e., badminton and volleyball) in the response time at 225° angle and in the error percentage. Conclusions: In sum, dynamic balance is also an activity that involves mental manipulation of objects in 3D space, which can enhance badminton and volleyball female players' ability to rotate 3D cube stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aims to compare the mental rotation performance between two non-contact sports (i.e., badminton and volleyball) in different upright conditions (i.e., with and without dynamic balance). Methods: Thirty-five female sports and physical education students voluntarily participated in the experiment, including fourteen specialists in badminton and twenty-one specialists in volleyball. The experiment involved a mental body rotation task with or without balance exercises on a wobble board. Results: Badminton players outperformed volleyball players in the mental rotation tasks regardless of balance. More interestingly, the results revealed an overall decrease in reaction times when participants performed balance exercises simultaneously with mental rotation. Discussion: Our findings suggest that introducing dynamic balance on a wobble board has immediate beneficial effects on the mental rotation performance of female badminton and volleyball players. These findings are discussed in the context of sport specificities and cognitive processing framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether the use of the color wheel system (CWS) during physical education (PE) classes is associated with a significant decrease in disruptive behaviors among middle school students. Using a multiple‐baseline single‐case design, we investigated the effects of the CWS on disruptive behavior in nine middle school students with identified disruptive tendencies, aged 13.33 ± 1.1 years on average. Disruptive behaviors were tracked through observation using a 15‐s partial time sampling technique. The results, as indicated by time series graphs and Nonoverlap of All Pairs values ranging from 0.79 to 1.00, consistently demonstrated that the implementation of the CWS led to a reduction in disruptive behaviors across the three classrooms. The findings suggest that the CWS is an effective intervention for mitigating disruptive behaviors among school‐aged children during PE classes. However, it should be noted that the training procedures for implementing the CWS were relatively brief. To address potential limitations in future CWS implementations, it is recommended to address these shortcomings and carefully consider the implementation of the CWS as a behavioral intervention in PE. Practitioner points: The color wheel system (CWS) has shown promise in reducing disruptive behaviors in the physical education setting.It is crucial to provide sufficient training and support to teachers before implementing the CWS.The CWS is a preventative classroom management strategy to promote a positive learning environment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of vision (i.e., open and closed eyes) on the kinetic and kinematic parameters of the standing back tuck somersault (SBTS) in artistic gymnasts and parkour athletes. Methods: Eleven male parkour athletes (age 22.53 ± 2.36 years; height 1.72 ± 0.08 m; weight 69.58 ± 3.72 kg) and seven male artistic gymnasts (age 21.96 ± 2.64 years; height 1.62 ± 0.02 m; weight 63.54 ± 1.35 kg) participated in this study. Each subject was asked to perform the SBTS in the same condition (i.e., first open-eyes then closed-eyes). 2D kinetic and kinematic analysis was conducted. Results: The results showed significant interaction (i.e., vision and sport) obtained at the take-off angle (p < 0.05 and d = 1.992), horizontal displacement (p < 0.05 and d = 1.906) and technical execution (p < 0.05 and d = 1.972). This interaction indicates that when vision is permitted, artistic gymnasts and parkour athletes were similar in all kinetic and kinematic parameters, and technical execution (p > 0.05). However, the elimination of vision during SBTS only affected parkour athletes (i.e., landing angle, ground reaction force, vertical velocity and technical execution, p < 0.05 and d >1.20) while artistic gymnasts remain unchanged. Conclusion: We conclude that the specificity of the practice in each of the two sports disciplines influences the kinetic and kinematic control of the SBTS and suggests that with closed-eyes, the integration of afferent information relating to the vestibular and proprioceptive systems is different and specific to each discipline's goal. Artistic gymnasts seem to be better skilled in the mechanical and technical control of the SBTS than parkour athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crucial criteria when assessing technical performance in artistic gymnastics is the higher elevation of the gymnast’s body and a stable landing (i.e., stick-landing). The purpose of this study was to compare kinetic and kinematic parameters during the landing phase of standing back somersaults (SBS) following three technical arm-swing performed during the preparatory phase in high-level male gymnasts. The three different arm-swing pertain to three “gymnastics schools”, i.e., Russian, Chinese, and Romanian. Six high-level male gymnasts participated in this study. Three arm-swing with different angles (i.e., SBS270°, SBS180°, and SBS90° ) were randomly performed. A 3D kinetic and kinematic analysis was conducted. Results showed significant variation in the landing angle (p = 0.009) across the three arm-swing techniques. The SBS90° arm-swing resulted in the closest angle to the vertical. Additionally, the SBS90° arm-swing technique induced the lowest horizontal and vertical force values upon landing compared to the other arm-swing techniques (SBS270° : p = 0.023 and 0.009, respectively; SBS180° : p = 0.004 and 0.080, respectively). The same was noted for the horizontal velocity (p = 0.021) with the lowest values noted for the SBS90° arm-swing technique. However, the best opening angle was observed during the SBS270° technique, since it presented the best vertical displacement. In conclusion, the SBS with a SBS90° arm-swing seems to favor a better absorption of the ground reaction force upon landing by reducing the intensity of the impact with the ground and by affording a landing angle closer to the vertical in high-level male gymnasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maintaining physical distancing is one of the most important steps to enforce in educational institutions to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19. However, close proximity and physical contact between students are often considered 'normal' during physical education (PE) classes, making it challenging for PE teachers to ensure physical distancing. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the implementation of the Good Behaviour Game (GBG) in maintaining physical distancing in PE settings in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: In a quasi-experimental design, two groups were separately designated as an experimental group (20 classes involving 220 students) and a control group (20 classes involving 231 students). They were all enrolled in the eighth grade of the Tunisian education system. In the experimental group, the PE teacher managed physical distancing by administering the GBG. Physical distancing was evaluated by direct observation of videos of filmed PE sessions using a code grid. It was measured twice for the two groups using Kinovea software. Results: Quantitative data analyses showed that the level of maintaining physical distancing increased after the GBG intervention in the experimental group (p <.001). Furthermore, greater percent changes between pre- and post-intervention were identified in the experimental group compared to the control group (120% vs 1%, respectively). Conclusion: The GBG was effective in ensuring students' physical distancing when implemented in PE settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The circadian clock regulates the function of the immune system, the replication of viruses, and the magnitude of infections. The aim of this study was to analyse whether hospital attendance in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients presents a diurnal variation. Data from the electronic medical records of 1094 COVID-19 patients who presented to a Health Centre in Qatar during the month of July 2020 was retrospectively analysed. The following demographic (i.e. time of day (TOD), sex, age), clinical (i.e. cycle threshold (CT), temperature, oxy-haemoglobin saturation and resting heart-rate), biochemical (i.e. uraemia, glycaemia and albuminia) and haematological (i.e. leukocytes, erythrocytes ad platelets) parameters were collected. Univariate analysis showed a significant effect of TOD on hospital admission (p < 0.001), with patients attending the health care centre more during the active behavioural phase (08h00-00h00) compared to the resting phase (00h00-08h00). COVID-19 infection blunted the circadian rhythms of core body temperature, neutrophils and leukocytes family and shifted the circadian rhythms of resting heart-rate and uraemia. Correlation analysis showed a near perfect negative correlation between the age of patients and the TOD (r=–0.97), with older patients attending the care centre earlier during the day. COVID-19 infection affected the circadian rhythms of the host through disrupting the circadian rhythms of core temperature and innate immunity mediators. Old patients attend the health care centre earlier compared to younger ones. However, CT during polymerase chain reaction-test was unaffected by the TOD, which limits the conclusion that COVID-19 viral infection exhibits diurnal variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many COVID-19 infected people remain asymptomatic, and hence the diagnosis at first presentation remains a challenge. Assessment at a presentation in primary care settings is usually done by visual triaging and basic clinical examination. This retrospective study involved investigating the medical e-records of COVID-19 positive patients who presented to a COVID-19 centre in Qatar for July 2020. The presence (symptomatic group) or the absence (asymptomatic group) of symptoms along with objective vital examination (ie; heart-rate (HR), temperature, haemoglobin saturation (SpO2)) were analysed and linked to the viral load (ie; cycle threshold (Ct)) of COVID-19 positive patients. Four hundred eighty-one symptomatic (230 males) and 216 asymptomatic (101 males) patients were included. Compared to the asymptomatic male group, the symptomatic male group was older, had lower Ct value and SpO2, and higher temperature and HR. Compared to the females asymptomatic group, the symptomatic females group had lower Ct value, and higher temperature. Compared to the asymptomatic group, the symptomatic group had lower Ct value and SpO2, and higher temperature and HR. Compared to the asymptomatic group, the symptomatic group had lower Ct values (age groups [21–30], [31–40], [41–50] and [51–60]), higher temperature (age groups [21–30] and [31–40], Ct ranges [20.01–25.00] and [25.01–30.00]), higher HR (age groups [21–30] and [31–40], Ct range [15.01–20.00]); and lower SpO2 (age groups [41–50] and [51–60], Ct ranges [15.01–20.00] and [35.01–40.00]). Compared with asymptomatic patients, symptomatic patients with COVID-19 are most likely to be febrile, tachycardic, hypoxic and having higher viral load. Higher viral load was associated with higher HR, higher temperature, lower SpO2, but there was no relation between viral load and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify the immediate effect of self-modelling with different focus of attention strategies (i.e., internal vs. external) on the teaching/learning of gymnastics motor-skills. Fifty-nine non-gymnast students participated in this study and were divided into three groups (i.e., an external focus group (EF), an internal focus group (IF), and a control group (CG)). Each participant's performance of the back dismount in the parallel bars was assessed before the experiment (i.e., base-score), and each participant was asked to provide a self-evaluation of their performance and their efficiency percentage. Afterwards, participants received a specific learning session (i.e., self-modelling with external focus, self-modelling with internal focus, or traditional learning with verbal instruction) and performed the back dismount in the parallel bars again immediately after (i.e., final score). Four international judges evaluated performance of our participants. The results showed that the EF and IF outperformed the CG in the final score. Importantly, a significant difference between the base and the final score was observed in the EF and IF, but not in the CG. In addition, the EF showed the highest percentage of improvement (Δ-score) and self-estimation scores compared to the two other groups. In conclusion, this study supports the adoption of external focus of attention for teaching/learning gymnastics motor-skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of three run-up steps on the kinetic and kinematic variables of the stag ring leap, with throw-catch of the ball, in high-level rhythmic female gymnasts. The three run-up steps used are a chassé step, glissade, and assemblé. Methods: Seven high-level rhythmic female gymnasts participated in this study. Three run-up steps (i.e., chassé step, glissade and assemblé) were used randomly to perform a stag ring leap with throwing a ball on the jump take-off. 2D kinetic and kinematic analysis was conducted. Results: The results indicated that the assemblé step used in the run-up technique generated greater values of the rate of force development, the highest values of vertical velocity, and the best vertical displacement. In addition, the assemblé step allows for the best opening angle of the split leap and the best closest angle of the ring leg. The same was noted for the front leg’s angular velocity. Conclusion: We concluded that the assemblé step used in the run-up technique appears to favor a greater stag ring leap that meets the Code of Points’ condition for admitting the jump, as well as numerous studies that focus on improving jumping abilities in rhythmic gymnastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the combined effect of mental imagery as well as visualization on performance, self-confidence, and self-report during the performance of the standing salto backward. Eighteen gymnasts (age 22.11 ± 1.71 years) voluntarily participated in this study. Once the warm-up was completed, subjects performed a standing salto backward tucked on the force-plate to determine the baseline performance before each experimental session. Subsequently, subjects were given specific intervention instructions and were asked to perform the standing salto backward tucked to the best of their ability. Participants were asked to engage in two mental strategies namely mental imagery and visualization for 1 min just before performing (Standing salto backward tucked). The results of the present study show that the combined mental simulation (MI and V), generate a potential improvement in performance during the execution of the standing salto backward as well as self-confidence and self-evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to compare the kinetic and kinematic factors of stag ring leap with and without throwing the ball using the two-leg take-off ballet-step "Assemblé" between three different modes in rhythmic gymnastics (RG). Seven members of the Tunisian RG national team (age 18.71±2.69 years; height 1.67±0.04 m; weight 58.43±4.03 kg) took part in this study. A kinetic and kinematic analysis of three stag ring leap execution modes (i.e., assemblé stag ring leap without ball, throw ball assemblé stag ring leap and assemblé throw ball stag ring leap) using two cameras on a specially designed floor carpet where a force plate was integrated was conducted. The result showed that the vertical component of force, the rate of force development, the angle of split legs and the horizontal and vertical velocity were significantly different (P<0.01). In this study, it was found that while performing the stag ring leap element, gymnasts present the highest value in both kinetic and kinematic parameters when throwing the ball during the jump (i.e., assemblé throw ball stag ring leap). In light of the obtained results, it is recommended that coaches start working with gymnasts on the throws during the jump from their youngest age, as this could help them attain the optimal performances in competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of different levels of exercise intensity on mental rotation performance in gymnasts vs. non-gymnasts'. Forty-one participants (18 females; mean age 20.94±0.89 years, height 1.65±0.03 m, body mass 58.94±5.67 kg, and 23 males; mean age 21.26±0.99 years, height 1.70±0.05 m, body mass 66.87±4.52 kg) divided into two groups (i.e., gymnasts and non-gymnast) voluntarily took part in the present study. The two groups performed a 3D cube mental rotation task at rest, and then performed the same task preceded by short bouts of intense exercise at 60%, 80%, 100% and 120% of their maximum aerobic speed (MAS). The analyses of response times showed that gymnasts performed the mental rotation task faster following bouts of intense exercise than in rest condition, especially in 60% and 80% of MAS, whereas non-gymnasts increased their response times after moderate exercises (i.e., 60 et 80 % of MAS) and stabilized their performance (i.e., equally at the rest) after intense exercises. This finding highlights the specific physical expertise as a variable that can affect the influence of exercise on cognitive processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Does dynamic balance affect cube mental rotation task in badminton vs. volleyball female players?" published in BMC Psychology. The correction addresses an incorrect affiliation listed in the original article and states that the affiliation has been corrected in the published version. The publisher apologizes for any inconvenience caused. The document also includes the names of the authors of the original article. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this study was to measure and compare physiological and time–motion variables during karate fighting and to assess eventual differences between winners and defeated elite karatekas in an ecologically valid environment. Methods: Fourteen elite male karatekas who regularly participated in national and international events took part in a national-level competition. Results: There were no significant differences between winners and defeated karatekas regarding all the studied variables. Karatekas used more upper-limb (76.19%) than lower-limb techniques (23.80%). The kisami-zuki represented the most frequent technique, with 29.1% of all used techniques. The duration of each fighting activity ranged from <1 s to 5 s, with 83.8% ± 12.0% of the actions lasting less than 2 s. Karatekas executed 17 ± 7 high-intensity actions per fight, which corresponded to ~6 high-intensity actions per min. Action-to-rest ratio was about 1:1.5, and high-intensityaction- to-rest ratio was ~1:10. The mean blood lactate response at 3 min postcombat (Lapost) elicited during karate fighting was 11.18 ± 2.21 mmol/L (difference between Lapre and Lapost = 10.01 ± 1.81 mmol/L). Mean heart rate (HR) was 177 ± 14 beats/min (91% ± 5% of HRpeak). Karatekas spent 65% of the time exercising at HR >90% of the individual HRpeak. Conclusion: Karatekas predominantly use upper-limb karate techniques. Karate’s nature is intermittent, with fighting activities representing ~6% of total combat’s duration and ~84% of actions lasting less than 2 s, with ~21-s mean time interval in between. Kumite combat sessions induced high La and near-maximal cardiovascular strain. Other key success factors should be investigated to properly discriminate winners and defeated athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of vibration (Vib versus noVib) during a maximal graded cycling exercise on hormonal response, precisely on cortisol (C) and testosterone (T). Twelve active males (25 ± 5yrs; 181 ± 5cm; 80.7 ± 11.1kg) randomly performed two maximal incremental cycling tests on two separate days and at the same time of the day (09:00). The protocol consisted of incremental steps of 3 min duration performed on a PowerBIKETM that induces vibration cycling. The study was a repeated measures design and participants performed the test with and without vibration. Gas exchange and heart rate (HR) were continuously assessed and blood lactate (Bla) was recorded at the end of each incremental stage. Saliva samples were collected before and immediately after the test, and analysed for (C) and (T). The results show that C and T increased in both cycling conditions; however, the C's magnitude of change was significantly higher by 83% after Vib cycling in comparison to the no Vib (p = 0.014), whereas the T's magnitude of change were not statistically different between trials (p = 0.715). Vibration induced a decrease of the T/C ratio (p = 0.046) but no significant changes were observed following noVib (p = 0.476). As a conclusion, the investigation suggests that adding mechanical vibration to cycling may potentiate a catabolic exercise-induced state, which could have potential clinical implications in rehabilitation and injury treatment. Sport experts should take this message home to carefully plan the recovery process and time during training and competitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to compare the effects of 1 vs. 2 sessions of equal-weekly volume plyometric training (PT) across 8 weeks on measures of athletic performance (i.e., sprint time, change of direction [CoD], jumping ability, and muscle strength) in prepuberal male soccer players. Thirty participants were randomly assigned either to 1 session PT group (1SPT [n = 15]) or 2 sessions PT group (2SPT [n = 15]). Plyometric training was integrated into their regular soccer training routine. Pretraining and posttraining tests for the assessment of sprint time (e.g., 5, 10, 20, and 30-m), CoD (e.g., T-test and modified Illinois change of direction test [MICODT]), jumping ability (e.g., standing long jump [SLJ], countermovement jump [CMJ], and squat jump [SJ]), muscle strength (reactive strength index [RSI]), and kicking distance were conducted. Results showed a main effect of time for 5-m sprint-time performance (F(1,56) = 4.00, effect size [ES] = 0.53 [medium], p = 0.05), T-test (F(1,56) = 23.19, ES = 1.28 [large], p < 0.001), MICODT (F(1,56) = 5.72, ES = 0.94 [large], p = 0.02), SLJ (F(1,56) = 16.63, ES = 1.09 [large], p < 0.001), CMJ (F(1,56) = 15.43, ES = 1.04 [large], p < 0.001), SJ (F(1,56) = 20.27, ES = 1.20 [large], p < 0.001), RSI (F(1,56) = 26.26, ES = 1.36 [large], p < 0.001), and kicking distance (F(1,56) = 47.19, ES = 1.83 [large], p < 0.001). There were no training group × time interactions in all the measured outcomes. In conclusion, when an equated moderate volume of jumps is performed, higher PT frequency across 8 weeks has no extra effects on prepuberal male soccer players' measures of athletic performance. The present findings may help optimizing PT interventions dedicated to prepuberal male soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the most appropriate aptitudes for top-level sporting results to identify physical profile of talent identified women‘s artistic gymnastics (WAG). Fortyeight women‘s artistic gymnasts in the provincial team (age 11.12 ± 1.22 years; height 1.35 ± 0.04 m; body mass 28.5 ± 4.04 kg) voluntarily participated in this study. Anthropometrics measures and the WAG battery physical tests were used to ensure a systematic approach for the WAG development worldwide. The present findings revealed that the strength (static strength, speed strength, and endurance strength), power and flexibility seem to be important and essential for good performance. Another characteristic that emerged from the results of the physical domain is coordination. This motor skill may seem relevant to gymnastics, they are applicable to the gymnasts‘ ability to perform all apparatus and more generally they relate to the ability to accurately perform whole-body skills supported by the leg on the floor, balance beam, and vault. Therefore, athletic performance can be boosted using combination of several characteristics that seems to be important for an elite gymnast. This reinforcing the view that systematic approach for the development and mufti-dimensional profile seems promising [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycling step protocol (Vib) and normal cycling (without vibration, no-Vib). Eighteen moderate trained males (age 24.1 ± 4.3 years; weight 76.5 ± 10.5 kg; height 178.0 ± 6.4 cm) have participated in this study. They randomly performed two gradual maximal exercise tests on two separate days using a new bike that automatically induces vibration cycling and the Corival cycle ergometer. The choice of two different bikes was made because of the impossibility to recreate the same power output without altering the cycling cadence on the vibration Bike. Both protocols were matched for power output and cycling cadence incrementations. Oxygen uptake (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during each stage were continuously recorded. No statistical differences were founded for all variables when comparing the Vib to no-Vib trials, except a higher ventilation during the vibration trial at submaximal levels. The results of this study do not confirm those of previous studies stated that Vib increased metabolic demands during cycling exercise. Added vibration stimulus to an incremental cycling protocol does not affect physiological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaabene, H, Negra, Y, Capranica, L, Bouguezzi, R, Hachana, Y, Rouahi, MA, and Mkaouer, B. Validity and reliability of a new test of planned agility in elite taekwondo athletes. J Strength Cond Res 32(9): 2542–2547, 2018—This study aimed to examine the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of a new test of planned agility in elite taekwondo athletes and to establish its relationship with sprint-time, jumping ability, and dynamic balance. Twenty-seven (20 males and 7 females) taekwondo athletes participated in this study. They performed taekwondo-specific agility test (TSAT) in 2 occasions (i.e., test-retest). In addition, they performed jumping ability (i.e., squat jump, countermovement jump, standing long jump, and 3-hop jump), sprint-time (5- and 20-m dash), and dynamic balance (i.e., Y-test) tests along with a planned agility test (i.e., T-test). To establish TSAT's construct validity, 2 subgroups were identified based on their international and national taekwondo results: top elite (9 males and 2 females) and elite (11 males and 2 females). Taekwondo-specific agility test showed high relative and absolute reliability as well as a good ability to detect small and meaningful performance change. Top-elite athletes showed greater (p < 0.001) TSAT performances (4.5 ± 0.4 seconds) compared with their elite (5.3 ± 0.4 seconds) counterparts. Receiving operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that TSAT was able to discriminate athletes of different competitive level as revealed by an area under the ROC curve of 0.94 (95% confidence interval: 0.76–0.99). Taekwondo-specific agility test demonstrated significant association with the T-test (r = 0.71; shared variance = 50%), which is considered as a gold-standard planned agility test. In addition, results showed moderate-to-large associations between TSAT and jumping ability, sprint-time, and dynamic balance tests. The TSAT might be considered as a valid and reliable test to evaluate specific agility of taekwondo athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sprinters use the weighted sled to improve acceleration ability starting with the standing position, but little information is available. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of sled loads on velocity achieved during a short distance sprint from the starting block and to develop a regression equation to determine the sled load in relation to the body mass (BM). Twenty-two male sprint athletes (age: 21.1±2.2 years; height: 178±6.0cm; body mass: 73.5±9.5kg; competitive experience=6.4±1.0yrs; personal best performance in 100m=11.05±0.27secs) performed five sprints over a distance of 15m from starting blocks on a synthetic surface and with track shoes (loaded conditions: 7%, 10%, 15% and 20% of BM). Sprint time for 15m under the four loaded conditions was significantly lower than the unloaded condition (p<0.05). The results led to determining a regression equation to calculate the load that can be used with sled-towing when sprinting from starting blocks (Equation: %BM= -1.48 (% velocity)+148.85). This equation may be an appropriate tool for coaches to optimise training sessions for male sprinters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rotation sequence-order differs from a gymnast to another according to the draw at the time of the qualifying competitions in men's artistic gymnastics. Only the six best gymnasts start on the floor exercises, the others could start on any of the other five apparatuses. It has been demonstrated that some gymnastics events are physiologically less taxing than others; hence some gymnasts could experience lower and/or higher levels of cardiovascular and metabolic stress compared to others, depending on the apparatus they start with. In this regard, the objective of this investigation was to compare cardiovascular and metabolic variables between two different types of Olympic rotation-order; one began with the floor exercises and the other began with the pommel horse. Six elite male gymnasts took part in this investigation. Heart rates, synchronized with real-time video acquisition, as well as capillary lactate concentration following each apparatus routine were monitored. Cardiovascular and metabolic stresses were significantly higher when gymnasts started their rotation with the pommel horse in all apparatuses except the pommel horse. The floor exercises' score was significantly affected when gymnasts ended up their competition on this apparatus. As a conclusion, starting gymnastics' competition on the floor exercises implicates less cardiovascular and metabolic stress associated with better performance compared with the other rotation order. As a matter of fact, best gymnasts who start on this apparatus could have a slight advantage compared with the other athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies contrasted the effects of plyometric training (PT) conducted on stable vs. unstable surfaces on components of physical fitness in child and adolescent soccer players. Depending on the training modality (stable vs. unstable), specific performance improvements were found for jump (stable PT) and balance performances (unstable PT). In an attempt to combine the effects of both training modalities, this study examined the effects of PT on stable surfaces compared with combined PT on stable and unstable surfaces on components of physical fitness in prepuberal male soccer athletes. Thirty-three boys were randomly assigned to either a PT on stable surfaces (PTS; n = 17; age = 12.1 ± 0.5 years; height = 151.6 ± 5.7 cm; body mass = 39.2 ± 6.5 kg; and maturity offset = -2.3 ± 0.5 years) or a combined PT on stable and unstable surfaces (PTC; n = 16; age = 12.2 ± 0.6 years; height = 154.6 ± 8.1 cm; body mass = 38.7 ± 5.0 kg; and maturity offset = -2.2 ± 0.6 years). Both intervention groups conducted 4 soccer-specific training sessions per week combined with either 2 PTS or PTC sessions. Before and after 8 weeks of training, proxies of muscle power (e.g., countermovement jump [CMJ], standing long jump [SLJ]), muscle strength (e.g., reactive strength index [RSI]), speed (e.g., 20-m sprint test), agility (e.g., modified Illinois change of direction test [MICODT]), static balance (e.g., stable stork balance test [SSBT]), and dynamic balance (unstable stork balance test [USBT]) were tested. An analysis of covariance model was used to test between-group differences (PTS vs. PTC) at posttest using baseline outcomes as covariates. No significant between-group differences at posttest were observed for CMJ (p > 0.05, d = 0.41), SLJ (p > 0.05, d = 0.36), RSI (p > 0.05, d = 0.57), 20-m sprint test (p > 0.05, d = 0.06), MICODT (p > 0.05, d = 0.23), and SSBT (p > 0.05, d = 0.20). However, statistically significant between-group differences at posttest were noted for the USBT (p < 0.01, d = 1.49) in favor of the PTC group. For most physical fitness tests (except RSI), significant pre-to-post improvements were observed for both groups (p < 0.01, d = 0.55-3.96). Eight weeks of PTS or PTC resulted in similar performance improvements in components of physical fitness except for dynamic balance. From a performance-enhancing perspective, PTC is recommended for pediatric strength and conditioning coaches because it produced comparable training effects as PTS on proxies of muscle power, muscle strength, speed, agility, static balance, and additional effects on dynamic balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the postural control difference between gymnasts and other athletes practicing different sports. Methods: Twenty-eight elite-level male athletes (7 gymnasts, 7 volleyball players, 7 windsurfers, and 7 monofin swimmers) participated in this study. Two-dimensional kinematic analysis of mediolateral and anteroposterior sway velocity of the center of mass (COM) on single plane balance board in bipedal and unipedal conditions, and on hard and foam surfaces was performed using two cameras (Sony, DCR-PC108, 50 Hz). Data were digitized using the video-based data analysis system SkillSpector. Results: Findings showed significant between groups differences regardless of the postural stance i.e., unipedal or bipedal ( d = 1.76-6.82, p < 0.01). In this regards, windsurfers presented the best postural performance in terms of sway velocity of the COM followed by gymnasts, volleyball players, and monofin swimmers. Furthermore, regardless of the postural stance, significant differences between surfaces ( d = 0.61-1.03, p < 0.05) were established. In this context, COM's sway velocity was higher for hard compared with foam surfaces for all disciplines ( d = 0.75-0.66, p < 0.05) except monofin swimmers who presented higher COM's sway velocity in foam compared to hard surfaces. Further, in the anteroposterior stance, windsurfers and gymnasts showed significantly lower floor contacts number compared with the other groups ( d = 1.76-2.39, p < 0.01). However, volleyball players and monofin swimmers showed comparable postural performance in the mediolateral plane. Conclusions: The windsurfers presented the best postural control followed by gymnasts, volleyball players, and monofin swimmers irrespective of the surface's nature (i.e., hard or foam) and postural stance (i.e., bipedal or unipedal). Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate windsurfing practice to promote postural control of gymnastic athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wrestling is one of the oldest combat sports, disputed since the ancient Greek Olympic Games. This combat sport discipline has caught the attention of scientists since 1943 which is the date that matches the appearance of the first scientific research dealing with wrestling. The current short review aimed to summarize and critically analyze the scientific literature related to wrestling's physical and physiological attributes and to provide practical recommendations for testing/training together with new perspective and areas of future scientific research. Regardless of sex and wrestling styles, an optimal level of cardiorespiratory fitness is important to help sustaining effort throughout the duration of the match and to stimulate the recovery process between periods. With regard to the anaerobic power and capacity, the available studies were in agreement about their critical importance toward reaching high-level wrestling success since these variables have discriminated well between successful and less-successful wrestlers regardless of age, weight classes, and wrestling styles. Physical fitness parameters such as maximal dynamic strength, isometric strength, explosive strength, and strength endurance are closely related to high-level wrestling performance. However, flexibility level seems not to be one of the key fitness variables that help to reach high-level wrestling success. Overall, to achieve high-level wrestling performance, training should be directed to develop anaerobic power and capacity, aerobic power, maximal dynamic and isometric strength, explosive strength, and strength endurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modelling of athletic movement is an important method in motor-skill learning. A world champion and a world record-holder, C.J, with a time of 12.91s, was chosen as a model-athlete in 110m hurdles in this study. He was compared with R.G, a Tunisian athlete and African champion based on his personal best of 13.90s. The biomechanical characteristics of the latter were analysed and compared with that of C.J's using the kinematic and kinetic parameters of the 110m hurdle clearance of the two athletes to determine the difference in their hurdling technique. R.G's hurdling sequences over the fourth and fifth hurdle were recorded using four cameras [Sony DCR-PC108E]. His kinematic model was digitised using SkillSpector® software. The results showed a difference in the centre of mass displacement at hurdle clearance and velocity-parameters in both the take-off and the landing phases. When comparing R.G to C.J, the latter had a smaller vertical displacement and a longer horizontal displacement, in addition to, a greater horizontal velocity along with a better reaction force and a higher peak-power. To improve R.G's performance, greater horizontal velocity and lower contact time at the take-off phase through a higher rate of force development are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The present study attempted to test whether the strongest effect of precompetitive anxiety on consecutive Gymnastic' performance can be observed only prior to performance or sustain during routine's outcomes during the long-term delay condition. Methods: Sixteen female rhythmic gymnasts (age 13.93 ± 2.1 years; body mass 46.87 ± 6.9 kg; height 1.78 ± 0.06 m) competing at international level, voluntarily participated in this study. They have had an experience of at least 8 years and had previous experience in the execution of the clubs and rope's routines. Before performing the experimental tasks, participants had to record the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory- 2 over the multidimensional constructs of cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self-confidence. A Timeout sanction, numbers of clubs and rope's falls per gymnast and routine execution during training and competition situation were recorded. Results: The finding of the present study showed that the score levels for cognitive and somatic anxiety were significantly higher for competition situation than for training situation, whereas our participants reported the same level of self-confidence during the two sessions. The results indicate as well that the timeout showed a significant difference between training situation and competition situation. Significant changes in the number of falls either between training situation or between competition situation were observed. Furthermore, the anxiety's effect on the rope' performance was greater than that one recorded during clubs routine. Conclusion: So that recognizing specific situational stimuli could activate spontaneously efficient behavioral patterns; then, using the mental training to control negative emotions could be fruitful for performance. Hence, reducing pre-competitive anxiety should be of paramount importance if coaches want to optimize their individual athlete's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agility is an important physical attribute for successful participation in team sports events. Illinois agility test (IAT) and T-test have been widely used within adult team sports players to assess agility performance. The purposes of this investigation are (1) to study the reliability and the sensitivity of both IAT and T-test scores and (2) to explore to what extend the agility is an independent physical ability from speed time and jumping ability. Competitive-level young soccer (n=95) and handball players (n=92) participated in this study (i.e., approximately 12 years old). Reliability analyses were established by determining intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC(3, 1)) and typical error of measurement (TEM). The sensitivity of agility tests was revealed by comparing TEM to the value of the smallest worthwhile change (SWC). The second aim was examined by means of the principal component analysis (PCA). Results revealed that the scores of both IAT and T-test showed a high reliability (all ICC(3, 1) > 0.90 and TEM<5%) and sensitivity (all TEM

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Background: Karate is one the most popular combat sports in the world. Physical fitness assessment on a regular manner is important for monitoring the effectiveness of the training program and the readiness of karatekas to compete. Objectives: The aim of this research was to examine the criterion related to validity of the karate specific aerobic test (KSAT) as an indicator of aerobic level of karate practitioners. Patients and Methods: Cardiorespiratory responses, aerobic performance level through both treadmill laboratory test and YoYo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YoYoIRTL1) as well as time to exhaustion in the KSAT test (TE'KSAT) were determined in a total of fifteen healthy international karatekas (i.e. karate practitioners) (means ± SD: age: 22.2 ± 4.3 years; height: 176.4 ± 7.5 cm; body mass: 70.3 ± 9.7 kg and body fat: 13.2 ± 6%). Results: Peak heart rate obtained from KSAT represented ~99% of maximal heart rate registered during the treadmill test showing that KSAT imposes high physiological demands. There was no significant correlation between KSAT's TE and relative (mL/min kg) treadmill maximal oxygen uptake (r = 0.14; P = 0.69; [small]). On the other hand, there was a significant relationship between KSAT's TE and the velocity associated with VO2max(vVO2max) (r = 0.67; P = 0.03; [large]) as well as the velocity at VO2 corresponding to the second ventilatory threshold (vVO2 VAT) (r = 0.64; P = 0.04; [large]). Moreover, significant relationship was found between TE's KSAT and both the total distance covered and parameters of intermittent endurance measured through YoYoIRTL1. Conclusions: The KSAT has not proved to have indirect criterion related validity as no significant correlations have been found between TE's KSAT and treadmill VO2max. Nevertheless, as correlated to other aerobic fitness variables, KSAT can be considered as an indicator of karate specific endurance. The establishment of the criterion related validity of the KSAT requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boxing is one of the oldest combat sports. The aim of the current review is to critically analyze the amateur boxer's physical and physiological characteristics and to provide practical recommendations for training as well as new areas of scientific research. High-level male and female boxers show a propensity for low body fat levels. Although studies on boxer somatotypes are limited, the available information shows that elite-level male boxers are characterized by a higher proportion of mesomorphy with a well-developed muscle mass and a low body fat level. To help support the overall metabolic demands of a boxing match and to accelerate the recovery process between rounds, athletes of both sexes require a high level of cardiorespiratory fitness. International boxers show a high peak and mean anaerobic power output. Muscle strength in both the upper and lower limbs is paramount for a fighter's victory and is one of the keys to success in boxing. As boxing punches are brief actions and very dynamic, high-level boxing performance requires well-developed muscle power in both the upper and lower limbs. Albeit limited, the available studies reveal that isometric strength is linked to high-level boxing performance. Future investigations into the physical and physiological attributes of boxers are required to enrich the current data set and to help create a suitable training program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on research which was conducted to investigate the effect acute vibration-enhanced static stretching and/or static stretching alone had on the strength and flexibility of hamstring and quadriceps muscles. Researchers evaluated the stretching techniques with 21 football players. They found that acute static vibration induced stretching enhanced muscle viscoelasticity but did not affect maximal voluntary contractions, strength or flexibility.

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Arms swing during standing back somersaults relates to three different 'gymnastics schools', each is considered 'optimal' by its adepts. In the three cases, technical performance, elevation and safety differ. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the mechanical variables of three different arms swing techniques in the performance of a standing back tucked somersault. Five high-level male gymnasts (age: 23.17±1.61 yrs; body height: 1.65±0.05 m; body mass: 56.80±7.66 kg) randomly performed standing somersaults under three conditions, each following a different arms' swing technical angle (270°, 180° and 90°). A force plate synchronized with a three dimensional movement analysis system was used to collect kinetic and kinematic data. Significant differences were observed between somersaults' performance. The back somersault performed with 270° arms swing showed the best vertical displacement (up to 13.73%), while the back somersaults performed with 180° arms swing showed a decrease in power (up to 22.20%). The back somersault with 90° arms swing showed the highest force (up to 19.46%). Considering that the higher elevation of the centre of mass during the flight phase would allow best performance and lower the risk of falls, this study demonstrated that optimal arms' swing technique prior to back tucked somersault was 270°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to compare physiological responses and time-motion analysis between official and simulated karate combat. Methods: Ten high-level karatekas participated in this study, which included official and simulated karate combat. Results: Karatekas used more upper-limb attack techniques during official combat compared to simulated ones (6±3 vs 3±1; P=0.05, respectively). For official and simulated karate matches, the numbers of high-intensity actions (i.e. offensive and defensive fighting activity) were 14±6 and 18±5, respectively (P>0.05), lasting from <1s to 5s each. Total fighting activity phase was lower during official compared to simulated matches (21.0±8.2s vs 30.4±9.9s, P<0.01, respectively). Effort (10.0±2.8s) to rest (11.9±2.7s) ratio (E:R) was 1:1 and high-intensity actions (1.6±0.3s) to rest (11.9±2.7s) ratio was higher than 1:7 during simulated combat. During official karate match, the activity and rest duration were 10.0±3.4s and 16.2±4.1s, respectively (E:R ratio 1:1.5), while high-intensity actions were 1.5±0.3s, resulting in an E:R ratio of 1:11. Blood lactate concentration was higher during official (11.14±1.82 mmol.l-1) compared to simulated karate combat (7.80±2.66 mmol.l-1) (P<0.05). Subjective perceived exertion differed significantly between official and simulated combat (14±2 vs. 12±2; P<0.05, respectively). The majority of karatekas’ perceived exertion was higher in the lower limb muscle groups irrespective of the karate combat condition. Conclusion: Official and simulated matches differ considerably, therefore coaches should create new strategies during training sessions to achieve the same effort and pause profile of competitive matches and/or that athletes should be submitted to frequent competitions to adapt themselves to the profile of this event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article discusses research which was conducted to examine the absolute and relative reliabilities and external responsiveness of the Karate specific aerobic test (KSAT). Researchers evaluated the test with 43 karate athletes. They found that KSAT provides excellent absolute and relative reliabilities and can effectively distinguish karate athletes of different competitive levels.

Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This review focuses on the most important physical and physiological characteristics of karate athletes from the available scientific research. It has been established that karate's top-level performers require a high fitness level. Top-level male karate athletes are typified by low body fat and mesomorphicectomorphic somatotype characteristics. Studies dealing with body composition and somatotype of females are scarce. Aerobic capacity has been reported to play a major role in karate performance. It prevents fatigue during training and ensures the recovery processes during rest periods between two subsequent bouts of fighting activity within a fight and between two consecutive matches. It has been established that there is no significant difference between male and female kata (forms) and kumite (sparring/combat) athletes with regard to aerobic performance. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to support these findings. Concerning anaerobic performance, there is a difference in maximal power explored by the force-velocity test between national and international level karatekas (karate practitioners) but, for the maximum accumulated oxygen deficit test there is no difference between them. Muscle explosive power plays a vital role in a karateka's capacity for high-level performance. However, it has been revealed that vertical jump performance, maximal power and maximal velocity differed between nationaland international-level karatekas. Moreover, it has been reported that karate performance relies more on muscle power at lower loads rather than higher ones. Thus, karate's decisive actions are essentially dependent on muscle explosive power in both the upper and lower limbs. With regard to dynamic strength, limited research has been conducted. The maximal absolute bench press, halfsquat one-repetition maximum and performance of isokinetic tasks differed significantly between highly competitive and novice male karatekas. Studies on female karate athletes do not exist. Concerning flexibility, which is important for the execution of high kicks and adequate range of action at high speeds, it has been demonstrated that karate athletes' ranges of bilateral hip and knee flexion are greater compared with non-karate athletes. Finally, reaction time is a crucial element in karate because high-level performance is based essentially on explosive techniques. A significant difference in the choice reaction time between high-level and novice karatekas exists. Further research is needed concerning the physiological characteristics of female karatekas, the differences between kata and kumite athletes and variations based on weight categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the most important physical and physiological characteristics of karate athletes from the available scientific research. It has been established that karate's top-level performers require a high fitness level. Top-level male karate athletes are typified by low body fat and mesomorphicectomorphic somatotype characteristics. Studies dealing with body composition and somatotype of females are scarce. Aerobic capacity has been reported to play a major role in karate performance. It prevents fatigue during training and ensures the recovery processes during rest periods between two subsequent bouts of fighting activity within a fight and between two consecutive matches. It has been established that there is no significant difference between male and female kata (forms) and kumite (sparring/combat) athletes with regard to aerobic performance. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to support these findings. Concerning anaerobic performance, there is a difference in maximal power explored by the force-velocity test between national and international level karatekas (karate practitioners) but, for the maximum accumulated oxygen deficit test there is no difference between them. Muscle explosive power plays a vital role in a karateka's capacity for high-level performance. However, it has been revealed that vertical jump performance, maximal power and maximal velocity differed between nationaland international-level karatekas. Moreover, it has been reported that karate performance relies more on muscle power at lower loads rather than higher ones. Thus, karate's decisive actions are essentially dependent on muscle explosive power in both the upper and lower limbs. With regard to dynamic strength, limited research has been conducted. The maximal absolute bench press, halfsquat one-repetition maximum and performance of isokinetic tasks differed significantly between highly competitive and novice male karatekas. Studies on female karate athletes do not exist. Concerning flexibility, which is important for the execution of high kicks and adequate range of action at high speeds, it has been demonstrated that karate athletes' ranges of bilateral hip and knee flexion are greater compared with non-karate athletes. Finally, reaction time is a crucial element in karate because high-level performance is based essentially on explosive techniques. A significant difference in the choice reaction time between high-level and novice karatekas exists. Further research is needed concerning the physiological characteristics of female karatekas, the differences between kata and kumite athletes and variations based on weight categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)