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Neurocognitive function, especially executive functioning, is positively associated with better fitness or higher levels of physical activity (PA). Previous research suggests that combined endurance and resistance (AER+R) training leads to greater improvements than training in either modality separately. Dynamic team sports with cognitive dimensions, such as basketball (BAS), may be an excellent context for improving cognition. This study compared the effects of following a four-month PA training program in BAS versus AER+R on executive functions along with a control group with low PA. Fifty participants completed the training period and were randomly distributed into three groups: BAS (16 participants), AER+R (18), and control (16). Participants in the BAS group showed improved inhibition and working memory and those in the AER+R group showed improved inhibition and cognitive flexibility, while inhibition deteriorated in the control group. There were significant differences between groups only in inhibition. It appears that following a four-month PA training program is enough to enhance executive functioning, and improvements in inhibition are more evident when the program includes an open sport such as BAS. This research was supported by a research Grant DEP2017-8987-R (Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad, Spain) to IC, FA and DC.

The benefits of physical exercise on health are diminished when it is non-planned, strenuous, or vigorous, which causes an increase in oxygen consumption and production of free radicals, particularly serious at the muscular level. Ubiquinol could help achieve an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and ergogenic effect. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether a supplementation of ubiquinol during a short period could have a positive effect on muscle aggression, physical performance, and fatigue perception in non-elite athletes after high intensity circuit weight training. One hundred healthy and well-trained men, (firemen of the Fire Department of Granada) were enrolled in a placebocontrolled, double-blinded, and randomized study, and separated into two groups: the placebo group (PG, n = 50); and the ubiquinol group (UG, n = 50), supplemented with an oral dose. Before and after the intervention, data related to the number of repetitions, muscle strength, and perceived exertion, as well as blood samples were collected. An increase was observed in the UG regarding average load and repetitions, revealing an improvement in muscle performance. Ubiquinol supplementation also reduced muscle damage markers, showing a protective effect on muscle fibers. Therefore, this study provides evidence that ubiquinol supplementation improves muscle performance and prevents muscle damage after strenuous exercise in a population of well-trained individuals who are not elite athletes., FPU contract with grant reference FPU21/04865, Ministry of Education of Spain

The aim of this study was to determine if specific physical tests are sufficiently discriminant to differentiate players of similar anthropometric characteristics, but of different playing levels. Physical tests were conducted analyzing specific strength, throwing velocity, and running speed tests. Thirty-six male junior handball players (n = 36; age 19.7 1.8 years; 185.6 6.9 cm; 83.1 10.3 kg; 10.6 3.2 years of experience) from two different levels of competition participated in the study: NT = 18 were world top-level elite players, belonging to the Spanish junior men’s national team (National Team = NT) and A = 18 players of the same age and anthropometric conditions, who were selected from Spanish third league men’s teams (Amateur = A). The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two groups in all physical tests, except for two-step-test velocity and shoulder internal rotation. We conclude that a battery combining the Specific Performance Test and the Force Development Standing Test is useful in identifying talent and differentiating between elite and sub-elite players. The current findings suggest that running speed tests and throwing tests are essential in selecting players, regardless of age, sex, or type of competition. The results shed light on the factors that differentiate players of different levels and can help coaches in selecting players., FEDER/ Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities— State Research Agency (Dossier number: RTI2018-099723-B-I00)

This study aims to analyze the reliability of the test of 8 throws of 3 different variants of handball throws in university students. The participants were 33 males, 20 ± 1.9 years; weight 72.39 ± 8.9 kg; height 176.75 ± 6.07 cm; BMI 23.14 ± 2.3. They were evaluated in 2 sessions separated from each other by a period of one week. The participants executed throws until 8 measurements were recorded in each of the tests, unspecific throws, in support and in the race with 3 steps; the launch speed was recorded with a radar behind the goal. The reliability of the average of the test scores of 8 measurements between the first session and the second was measured with a test-retest test. The following results were obtained: in the nonspecific launch, an ICC= (0.86) was obtained between 95% of confidence, one of CV= (7.43%) and one ES = (0.08). For the toss with support, an ICC = (0.94) was obtained at 95% confidence, one of CV = (4.71%) and an ES = (-0.09). For the running throw, an ICC = (0.96) was obtained at 95% confidence, one of CV = (4.00%) and one ES = (0.05). This study has shown that the test of 8 throws and the 3 variants is a reliable and stable performance measure for university-level students without experience in handball; in relation to the throw variables, all 3 were reliable. Only the nonspecific variable was lower compared to the supported and running pitch. El estudio tiene como propósito analizar la fiabilidad de la prueba de 8 lanzamientos de 3 diferentes variantes de lanzamientos de balonmano en estudiantado universitario. 33 varones, 20 ±1,9 años; peso 72,39±8,9 kg; altura 176,75 ±6,07 cm; IMC 23,14±2,3. Los sujetos participantes fueron evaluados en 2 sesiones separadas entre sí por un lapso de una semana. Ejecutaron lanzamientos hasta quedar registrados 8 mediciones en cada una de las pruebas, lanzamientos inespecíficos, en apoyo y en carrera con 3 pasos, se registró la velocidad de lanzamiento con un radar posterior a la portería. La fiabilidad del promedio de las puntuaciones del test de 8 medidas entre la primera sesión y la segunda con una prueba test-retest, se obtuvieron los siguientes resultados: en el lanzamiento inespecífico se obtuvo un ICC= (0,86) entre el 95% de confianza, un de CV= (7,43%) y un ES= (0,08). Para el lanzamiento con apoyo se obtuvo un ICC= (0,94) al 95 % de confianza, un de CV= (4,71 %) y un ES= (-0,09). Para el lanzamiento con carrera se obtuvo un ICC= (0,96) al 95 % de confianza, un de CV= (4,00 %) y un ES= (0,05). Este estudio ha demostrado que la prueba de 8 lanzamientos y las 3 variantes es una medida de rendimiento confiable y estable para estudiantes de nivel universitario sin experiencia en el balonmano, en relación con las variables del lanzamiento, las 3 fueron fiables, solo la variable inespecífica fue menor en comparación al lanzamiento con apoyo y con carrera. O estudo tem como objetivo analisar a confiabilidade do teste de 8 arremessos de 3 variantes diferentes de arremessos de handebol em estudantes universitários. 33 homens, 20 ±1,9 anos; peso 72,39±8,9 kg; altura 176,75 ±6,07 cm; IMC 23,14±2,3. Os participantes foram testados em 2 sessões separadas por um lapso de 1 semana. Os participantes executaram arremessos até poder registrar 8 medições em cada um dos testes, arremessos não específicos, com apoio e correndo com 3 passos. A velocidade de arremesso foi registrada com um radar pós-gol. A confiabilidade da média dos resultados dos testes de 8 medições entre a primeira sessão e a segunda com um teste de retorno, deu os seguintes resultados: no teste de lançamento não específico, foi obtido um ICC= (0,86) com 95% de confiança, um CV= (7,43%) e um ES= (0,08). Para o lançamento apoiado obtivemos um ICC= (0,94) a 95% de confiança, um CV= (4,71%) e um ES= (-0,09). Para o arremesso de corrida obtivemos um ICC= (0,96) a 95% de confiança, um CV= (4,00%) e um ES= (0,05). Este estudo mostrou que o teste de 8 lances e as 3 variantes é uma medida de desempenho confiável e estável para estudantes universitários sem experiência em handebol. Em relação às variáveis de arremesso, todas as 3 foram confiáveis, apenas a variável não específica foi menor em comparação com o arremesso com suporte e com corrida.

Background: In line with the recommendations for sustainable development, SDG 3 highlights the importance of working on health and well-being. In this respect, strength training has proven to be highly effective. Improved physical performance in most sports is associated with increased maximum dynamic strength. The existing literature on strength training methods is extensive, varied and has a certain tradition in the scientific field. Therefore, the regulation and optimal treatment of the load/stimulus with which one works in the development of strength is a key point. The analysis and study of the variability in loads or training stimuli is essential since it is modified according to the objective of the training and adapted to the circumstances. The aim of this study was to compare the differences measured in average and maximum strength, rate of force development (RFD) and the perception of effort (RPE) between two training methods (constant resistance (CR) vs. intra-repetition variable resistance (IRVR) in a bench press. Methods: Due to the methodological difficulties involved in generating an IRVR, fifteen men executed different percentages of one maximum repetition (40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) with CR and IRVR. The percentage to graduate the selected load was 20% of variable resistance. An intra-subject design was used to compare the acute differences between intra-repetition variable resistance and constant resistance. Results: The results showed significant differences in IRVR for maximum force at 1RM (p = 0.001). A significant decrease in RPE with IRVR was documented for all percentages evaluated (p = 0.011). Less accumulated load during execution with IRVR in the first phases of the range of motion (ROM), provides a greater acceleration of the external load, consequently, in the last phase of the concentric extension a faster speed is produced compared to the traditional method with CR (p = 0.036). Conclusion: IRVR method requires a lower load accumulated in the first phase of the ROM allows more acceleration of the external load and therefore overcome the sticking point with a higher velocity. The constant adaptations in the pattern of strength production during the ROM cause the muscles to stay closer to their best "length-tension" ratio in the concentric phase; therefore, they can generate higher levels of strength. In addition, the results obtained show that the IRVR method requires less perceived effort. For all these reasons, it should be considered an effective method for developing maximum dynamic force, mainly for sub-maximum and maximum loads.

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el efecto de la técnica de secuencias de bracing en la estabilidad del core y el rendimiento en kata de karatecas. 38 deportistas masculinos de karate participaron en el estudio divididos en un grupo experimental (n=21) y un grupo de control (n=17). La prueba de rendimiento del deportista y la prueba de estabilidad del core se realizaron en pretest y postest posterior a 8 semanas de programa de estabilidad del core (técnica de secuencias de bracing). El grupo experimental mostró una mejora significativa en la prueba de rendimiento del atleta (p < 0,001) y en la prueba de estabilidad del core con (p < 0,05). Hubo una correlación positiva muy fuerte entre la prueba de rendimiento del atleta y el cinturón del karateca (ρ =0.780), una correlación positiva considerable entre la prueba de estabilidad del core y el cinturón del jugador (ρ =0.604), una correlación positiva considerable entre la prueba de rendimiento del atleta y la edad del jugador (ρ =0.554), y una correlación positiva media entre la prueba de estabilidad del core y la edad del jugador (ρ=0.481). En conclusión, los karatecas mostraron una gran mejora en el rendimiento del kata y en el nivel de estabilidad del core después del programa de técnicas de secuencias de bracing. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of bracing sequences technique on core stability and kata performance of karate athletes. 38 male karate athletes participated in the study divided into the experimental group (n=21) and the control group (n=17). The athlete performance test and core stability test were done at pre-test and post-test after 8 weeks of a core stability program (bracing sequences technique). The experimental group showed significant improvement in athlete performance test (p < 0.001) and in core stability test with (p < 0.05). There was very strong positive correlation between athlete performance test and player belt (r =0.780), considerable positive correlation between core stability test and player belt (ρ =0.604), considerable positive correlation between athlete performance test and player age (ρ =0.554), and average positive correlation between core stability test and player age (ρ=0.481). In conclusion, karate athletes showed great improvement in kata performance and core stability level after bracing sequences technique program.

Introduction: The squat is an exercise that is widely used for the development of strength in sports. However, considering that not all sports gestures are vertical, it is important to investigate the effectiveness of propulsive force stimuli applied in different planes. Objective: The main purpose of this study was to determine the influence of maximum isometric force (MIF) exerted on starting blocks over performance in 5, 10 and 20-meter sprints. Methods: Seven high-level male sprinters (mean age ± SD = 28 ± 5.77 years) participated in this study. The variables were: a) MIF in squats and on starting blocks (measured using a functional electromechanical dynamometer [FEMD]), b) time in 5, 10 and 20-m sprints and c) jump height (measured by the squat jump test). For data analysis, a Pearson correlation was performed between the different variables. The criteria for interpreting the strength of the r coefficients were as follows: trivial (0.9). The level of significance was p < 0.05. Results: There was very high correlation between MIF exerted on starting blocks and performance in the first meters of the sprint (5-m: r = -0.84, p = 0.01). However, there was small correlation between MIF in squats and performance in the first meters of the sprint (5-m: r = -0.22, p < 0.62). Conclusion: The MIF applied on starting blocks correlates very high with time in the first meters of the sprint in high-level athletes. In addition, the use of the FEMD provides a wide range of possibilities for evaluation and development of strength with a controlled natural movement. Level of evidence IV; Prognostic Studies - Case series., Introdução: O agachamento é um exercício amplamente utilizado para o desenvolvimento de força nos esportes. No entanto, considerando que nem todos os gestos esportivos são verticais, é importante investigar a eficácia dos estímulos de força propulsiva em diferentes planos. Objetivo: O principal objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a influência da força isométrica máxima (FIM) exercida em os blocos de largada sobre o desempenho em sprints de 5, 10 e 20 metros. Métodos: Sete velocistas de alto nível do sexo masculino (média ± DP = 28,0 ± 5,77 anos) fizeram parte deste estudo. As variáveis foram: a) FIM no agachamento e nos blocos de largada (avaliados com um dinamômetro eletromecânico funcional (DEF)), b) tempo de sprints de 5, 10 e 20 metros e c) altura do salto (medida pelo teste de squat jump). Para análise dos dados, foi usada a correlação de Pearson entre as diferentes variáveis. Os critérios para interpretar o coeficiente r foi: nulo (< 0,1), pequeno (0,1 a 0,3), moderado (0,3 a 0,5), alto (0,5 a 0,7), muito alto (0,7 a 0,9) ou praticamente perfeito (> 0,9). O nível de significância foi p < 0,05. Resultados: Houve correlação muito alta entre a FIM exercida nos blocos de largada e o desempenho nos primeiros metros do sprint (5-m: r = -0,84, p = 0,01). No entanto, a correlação entre o agachamento da FIM e os primeiros metros de sprint foi pequena (5-m: r = -0,22, p < 0,62). Conclusão: A FIM aplicada aos blocos de largada teve uma correlação muito alto com o tempo nos primeiros metros de sprint em atletas de alto nível. Além disso, o uso de um DEF oferece uma ampla gama de possibilidades para avaliar e desenvolver força com um movimento natural controlado. Nível de evidência IV; Estudos Prognósticos – Série de casos., Introducción: La sentadilla es un ejercicio ampliamente usado para el desarrollo de fuerza en los deportes. Sin embargo, considerando que no todos los gestos deportivos son verticales, es importante investigar la eficacia de los estímulos de fuerza propulsiva en diferentes planos. Objetivo: El principal objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la influencia de la fuerza isométrica máxima (FIM) ejercida en los bloques de salida sobre el rendimiento en sprints de 5, 10 y 20 metros. Métodos: Siete velocistas de alto nivel del sexo masculino (promedio ± SD = 28,0 ± 5,7 años) formaron parte de este estudio. Las variables fueron: a) FIM en la sentadilla y en los bloques de salida (evaluados con un dinamómetro electromecánico funcional [DEF]) b) tiempo de sprints de 5, 10 y 20-metros y c) altura del salto (medida a través del test de squat jump). Para el análisis de los datos se usó la correlación de Pearson entre las diferentes variables. Los criterios para interpretar el coeficiente r fueron: nulo (0,9). El nivel de significancia fue p < 0,05. Resultados: Hubo correlación muy alta entre a FIM ejercida en los bloques de salida y el rendimiento en los primeros metros del sprint (5-m: r = -0,84, p = 0,01). Sin embargo, la correlación entre la FIM en sentadilla y los primeros metros de sprint fue pequeña (5-m: r = -0,22, p < 0,62). Conclusión: La FIM aplicada a los bloques de salida tuvo una correlación muy alta con el tiempo en los primeros metros de sprint en atletas de alto nivel. Además, el uso de un DEF ofrece una amplia gama de posibilidades para evaluar y desarrollar fuerza con un movimiento natural controlado. Nivel de evidencia IV; Estudios pronósticos: Serie de casos., Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness RTI2018-099723-B-I00

El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el efecto sobre la atención de escolares de dos programas de actividad física (moderada y alta intensidad). Participaron 94 niños (n = 52) y niñas (n =42), (Edad M = 8,20; DT = 0,70) de la ciudad de Granada (España). Se empleó un diseño cuasi experimental con un grupo control y otro experimental. Se analizó amplitud de la atención y atención selectiva. Como variable de control se evaluó la aptitud cardiorrespiratoria a través de consumo de oxígeno máximo y la velocidad pico alcanzada durante actividad aeróbica máxima. Se aprecian efectos significativos a favor del programa de alta intensidad sobre dos pruebas de span atencional y ejercicios de atención selectiva, así como en valores de condición física. Se concluye que la práctica física de alta intensidad intermitente, practicada de manera regular, podría tener implicaciones positivas sobre el rendimiento cognitivo de niños y que la mejora de la condición física podría ser uno de los factores vinculados a estos cambios. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of two programs of physical activity (moderate and high intensity physical activity), in the levels of attention of a sample of young in scholar aged. 94 children, boys=52 and girls=42 (Age M = 8.20; SD = 0.70) from Granada (Spain) participated in the investigation. A quasi-experimental design was used, with control and experimental group. Evidence of attentional span and search items on matrices with the purpose of analyzing the amplitude of the attention and selective attention were applied. As a control variable, cardiorespiratory fitness by maximum oxygen uptake and peak speed reached during maximal aerobic activity was evaluated. The results showed significant effects in favor of high-intensity program on two tests of attentional span and exercises selective attention, as well as the values of fitness. These data suggest that the physical practice of intermittent high intensity practiced regularly could have positive implications on cognitive performance of children and improving the physical condition could be one of the factors linked to these changes. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o efeito de dois programas de atividade física (de intensidade moderada e alta) em atenção o nível cognitivo para a escola. 94 estudantes participaram, 52 do sexo masculino, 42 do sexo feminino (Idade M = 8,20, DP = 0,70) da cidade de Granada (Espanha). Um design quase-experimental foi utilizado com um grupo controle e um grupo experimental. Amplitude de atenção e atenção seletiva foram analisados. Como variável de controle foi avaliada a aptidão cardiorrespiratória através do consumo máximo de oxigênio e velocidade de pico alcançado durante a atividade aeróbica máxima. Efeitos significativos são vistos em favor do programa de alto intensidade e dois exercícios de amplitude e exercícios de atenção selectiva, bem como valores de aptidao física. Conclui-se que a prática física de alta intensidade intermitente, praticado regularmente, pode ter implicações positivas sobre o desempenho cognitivo das crianças e condição física melhoria poderia ser um dos fatores ligados a essas mudanças.

The hip abductor muscles are vitally important for pelvis stability, and common strength deficits can negatively affect functionality. The muscle strength can be measured using different dynamometers and be evaluated in three positions (side-lying, standing, and supine). Obtained strength data can be expressed in different ways, with data normalization providing more objective and comparable results. The aim of this study was to establish the validity and reliability of three protocols in evaluating the isometric strength of the hip abductor muscles. A new functional electromechanical dynamometer assessed strength in three positions, with findings subjected to three data normalization methods. In two identical sessions, the hip abductor strengths of 29 subjects were recorded in the side-lying, standing, and supine positions. Peak force was recorded in absolute terms and normalized against body mass, fat-free mass, and an allometric technique. The peak force recorded in the side-lying position was 30% and 27% higher than in the standing and supine positions, respectively, independent of data normalization methodology. High inter-protocol correlations were found (r: 0.72 to 0.98, p 0.001). The supine position with allometric data normalization had the highest test-retest reliability (0.94 intraclass correlation coefficient and 5.64% coefficient of variation). In contrast, the side-lying position with body mass data normalization had a 0.66 intraclass correlation coefficient and 9.8% coefficient of variation. In conclusion, the functional electromechanical dynamometer is a valid device for measuring isometric strength in the hip abductor muscles. The three assessed positions are reliable, although the supine position with allometric data normalization provided the best results.