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Many elite athletes find the loss of their athletic abilities due to age or injury to be a profoundly challenging experience. While talent development is a well-studied phenomenon, far less attention has been paid to the issue of talent loss. We address this gap by exploring the experience and challenges faced by elite athletes who are losing, or who have lost, their talent. Drawing on three different understandings of the nature of talent, we argue that the experience of talent loss is constituted by three distinct yet interrelated forms of disorientation. We conclude by examining how athletes and those supporting them may respond to these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To gather information on practices and perceptions of high-performance experts regarding their athletes' muscle fiber-type composition (MFTC) and its estimation. Methods: A questionnaire on the noninvasive versus invasive estimation of MFTC was completed by 446 experts including coaches and sport-science/sports-medicine staff. Moreover, the perceived importance of MFTC for training and performance optimization was assessed. Differences between sport types (individual and team sports) were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: Forty percent of the experts implemented MFTC assessment in pursuit of performance optimization, while 50% did not know their athletes' MFTC but expressed a desire to implement it if they would be able to assess MFTC. Ten percent did not perceive value in MFTC assessment. Only 18% of experts believed that their athletes would undergo a muscle biopsy, leading to the adoption of alternative noninvasive techniques. Experts primarily relied on their experience to estimate MFTC (65%), with experts working in individual sports using their experience more frequently than those working in team sports (68% vs 51%; P =.009). Jump tests emerged as the second-most commonly employed method for estimating MFTC (56%). When only considering experts who are currently using MFTC, 87% use MFTC to individualize training volume and 84% to individualize training intensity. Conclusions: Experts value MFTC assessment primarily to individualize training but mainly rely on noninvasive methods to estimate MFTC. Some of these methods lack scientific validity, suggesting a continuing need for education and further research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Which opponent player to sequentially serve to in beach volleyball is crucial given the advantage of the attacking team. The sequential choice theory was tested in three studies by analyzing allocation strategies based on the hot hand belief. Study 1 showed strong belief in the hot hand of national coaches. In Study 2, we analyzed Tokyo Olympics data to explore how base rates and sequential selection rates varied in an elite sample. When base rates of players differed by 0.25, low-performing players were frequently selected. In an experiment with elite athletes, Study 3A demonstrated accurate base-rate-difference recognition but low base-rate-change recognition. Study 3B found that the hot hand is believed to be important but is not often detected. We conclude that players and coaches follow predictions of the sequential choice theory and believe in the hot hand, but do not have a shared understanding of how to use it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Travel fatigue impacts cognitive and physiologic systems, but its association with elite soccer match performance is unclear. In this retrospective observational study, we aimed to explore the association between travel and match outcomes in elite North American soccer. Methods: Travel data and match outcomes (team points or goals scored and conceded) and physical performance outcomes from 26 elite professional soccer teams and their players were analyzed (148 matches [team-based data] and 1252 player matches from 297 players; age 22.7 [4.5] y). Player- and match-level correlations between performance measures and both acute and cumulated travel metrics were analyzed. Results: Cumulative travel metrics were positively associated with team (travel distance [r =.20; 95% CI,.03–.25], travel time [r =.20;.06–.37], and time away [r =.20;.06–.37]) and individual player (travel distance, [r =.14;.08–.19], travel time [r =.17–.23], and time away [r =.13;.07–.18]) high-intensity running. Cumulative time away was negatively associated with team points (r = −.14; −.28 to −.001) and positively associated with goals conceded (r =.14;.01–.27); no clear association between acute travel metrics and match outcomes or physical performance was observed. Conclusions: As travel cumulated, away teams and their players ran more but for less reward (team points), although the magnitude of these associations was small. These data are exploratory and do not imply a causal relationship; however, further research should consider cumulation of travel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to explore elite athletes' experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on both growth and well-being. Informed by two complementary theoretical models, this research focused on elite athletes' potential to experience growth. Five elite athletes completed the Stress-Related Growth Scale–Revised and underwent semistructured interviews to develop a narrative of their experiences. Through a thematic analysis, we articulated elite athletes' experiences of both illusory and real adversarial growth following the COVID-19 pandemic. Four themes illustrated their experiences: the COVID-19 experience, searching for positives, self-transformation, and the social impact. A fifth theme, well-being, was integral throughout, involving the continued protection and development of athlete well-being. Future research recommendations and implications include further exploration of adversarial growth experiences after the pandemic and long-term effects of the pandemic on elite athletes, the creation of an adversarial growth measure, and engagement with this research to inform support measures to decrease the impact of adversity on elite athletes' well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To quantify the change in session rating of perceived exertion training impulse (RPE-TRIMP) that may occur in response to increased running distance at 3 running velocity ranges in elite sprinters. Methods: We monitored training load in elite sprinters (women: n = 7; men: n = 11) using wearable Global Positioning System technology and RPE-TRIMP for a total of 681 individual training sessions during a 22-week competition-preparation period. Internal training load was operationalized by RPE-TRIMP, and external training load was operationalized by distance covered in 3 velocity ranges. A linear mixed-effects model with athlete as a random effect was fit to RPE-TRIMP with total distance covered at ≤69.99% (low-velocity running [LVR]), 70% to 84.99% (high-velocity running [HVR]), and 85% to 100% (very-high-velocity running [VHVR]) of individual maximum velocity. Results: Increased running distance in all 3 velocity ranges (LVR, HVR, and VHVR) resulted in a significant (P <.001) increase in RPE-TRIMP. Coefficients (95% CIs) were.10 (.08–.11) for LVR,.23 (.18–.28) for HVR, and.44 (.35–.53) for VHVR. A 50-m increase in running distance covered in the LVR, HVR, and VHVR velocity ranges was associated with increases in RPE-TRIMP of 5, 11.5, and 22 arbitrary units, respectively. Conclusions: Internal training load, calculated as RPE-TRIMP, increased with increases in total distance covered in the LVR, HVR, and VHVR velocity ranges (P <.001). RPE-TRIMP can be a practical solution for monitoring global training-session load in elite sprinters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To (1) establish extensive physiological profiles of highly trained CrossFit® athletes using gold-standard tests and (2) investigate which physiological markers best correlate with CrossFit Open performance. Methods: This study encompassed 60 participants (30 men and 30 women), all within the top 5% of the CrossFit Open, including 7 CrossFit semifinalists and 3 CrossFit Games finalists. Isokinetic dynamometers were employed to measure maximum isometric and isokinetic leg and trunk strength. Countermovement-jump height and maximum isometric midthigh-pull strength were assessed on a force plate. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was measured by a cardiopulmonary exercise test, and critical power and W′ were evaluated during a 3-minute all-out test, both on a cycle ergometer. Results: Male and female athletes' median (interquartile range) VO2peak was 4.64 (4.43, 4.80) and 3.21 (3.10, 3.29) L·min−1, critical power 314.5 (285.9, 343.6) and 221.3 (200.9, 238.9) W, and midthigh pull 3158 (2690, 3462) and 2035 (1728, 2347) N. Linear-regression analysis showed strong evidence for associations between different anthropometric variables and CrossFit Open performance in men and women, whereas for markers of cardiorespiratory fitness such as VO2peak, this was only true for women but not men. Conventional laboratory evaluations of strength, however, manifested minimal evidence for associations with CrossFit Open performance across both sexes. Conclusions: This study provides the first detailed insights into the physiology of high-performing CrossFit athletes and informs training optimization. Furthermore, the results emphasize the advantage of athletes with shorter limbs and suggest potential modifications to CrossFit Open workout designs to level the playing field for athletes across different anthropometric characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much of the current research on sprint start has attempted to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of elite athletes to provide guidance on the training of sprint technique, with less attention paid to the effects of motor experience gained from long-term training on neuromuscular control characteristics. The present study attempted to investigate the effect of motor experience on the modular organization of the neuromuscular system during starting, based on he clarification of the characteristics of muscle synergies during starting. It was found that exercise experience did not promote an increase in the number of synergies but rather a more focused timing of the activation of each synergy, allowing athletes to quickly complete the postural transition from crouching to running during the starting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE), which refers to the phenomena associated with the attainment of enhanced performance in sport-specific tasks after a conditioning activity, is an important objective of warming-up practices in many sports. This is even more relevant for sprinters, as potential increases in sprinting speed will directly influence their competitive results. This systematic review with meta-analysis evaluated the effects of different PAPE protocols (ie, using plyometrics, strength-power exercises, and resisted/assisted sprints) on the sprinting performance (ie, sprint time or sprint speed) of competitive sprinters. Methods: Initially, 1205 records published until last December 18 were identified, using the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Clarivate Web of Science. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 14 high-quality studies met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. Results: Overall, there were no significant changes in sprint performance after implementing various types of conditioning activities (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.16 [95% CI, −0.02 to 0.33]; Z = 1.78; P =.08; I2 = 0%). In addition, when comparing prechanges and postchanges between experimental, control, and other conditions, no significant differences were found in sprint speed or time across all studies (SMD = 0.09 [95% CI, −0.10 to 0.28]; Z = 0.92; P =.36; I = 0%). Conclusions: Results revealed that different types of conditioning activities may not be capable of acutely enhancing the sprint speed of competitive sprinters. This aligns with previous observations indicating that sprinting is a highly stable physical capacity, a phenomenon that is even more consistent among elite sprinters. Coaches and sport scientists should collaborate to develop more efficient PAPE protocols for these highly specialized athletes, with special attention to study design and individualization, while considering their effects on acceleration versus top speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Injury prevention is a crucial aspect of sports, particularly in high-performance settings such as elite female football. This study aimed to develop an injury prediction model that incorporates clinical, Global-Positioning-System (GPS), and multiomics (genomics and metabolomics) data to better understand the factors associated with injury in elite female football players. Methods: We designed a prospective cohort study over 2 seasons (2019–20 and 2021–22) of noncontact injuries in 24 elite female players in the Spanish Premiership competition. We used GPS data to determine external workload, genomic data to capture genetic susceptibility, and metabolomic data to measure internal workload. Results: Forty noncontact injuries were recorded, the most frequent of which were muscle (63%) and ligament (20%) injuries. The baseline risk model included fat mass and the random effect of the player. Six genetic polymorphisms located at the DCN, ADAMTS5, ESRRB, VEGFA, and MMP1 genes were associated with injuries after adjusting for player load (P <.05). The genetic score created with these 6 variants determined groups of players with different profile risks (P = 3.1 × 10−4). Three metabolites (alanine, serotonin, and 5-hydroxy-tryptophan) correlated with injuries. The model comprising baseline variables, genetic score, and player load showed the best prediction capacity (C-index:.74). Conclusions: Our model could allow efficient, personalized interventions based on an athlete's vulnerability. However, we emphasize the necessity for further research in female athletes with an emphasis on validation studies involving other teams and individuals. By expanding the scope of our research and incorporating diverse populations, we can bolster the generalizability and robustness of our proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine nocturnal sleep patterns, napping behaviors, and subjective wellness responses of elite water polo players within an in-season week and to identify whether sleeping patterns differ between men and women. Methods: Sleep characteristics of 10 male and 17 female professional water polo players were objectively assessed during 1 week of the in-season period, including 5 training days, 1 match day, and 1 day of rest. Internal load (rating of perceived exertion × duration of training or match) was assessed 30 minutes posttraining or postmatch, and the total quality of recovery was recorded every morning. A series of multilevel models were used to analyze the data. Results: Time in bed and wake-up time were earlier on both training (P <.001) and rest days (P <.001) than on the day of the match. Internal workload did not predict any of the players' sleeping patterns. Midday naps predicted less time in bed (P =.03) and likely less sleep time (P =.08). The total quality of recovery was predicted only by the total sleep time (P <.01). Women exhibited higher sleep efficiency (P <.001), less waking after sleep onset (P =.01), and a lower number of awakenings (P =.02) than men. Conclusions: The current results indicate that the nocturnal sleep patterns of elite water polo players are not associated with internal load and that women display better nocturnal sleep quality compared with men. As long naps interfere with nocturnal sleep, and total nocturnal sleep time predicts total quality of recovery, we suggest that athletes follow hygiene sleep strategies to facilitate adequate nocturnal sleep and next-day recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Successful participation in taekwondo (TKD) requires athletes to possess quick decision-making abilities and demonstrate technical proficiency during competition. Dehydration, occurring during both training and competition, is widely recognized to have various negative effects. Methods: This study investigated the impact of different levels of dehydration on cognitive function, as measured by the Vienna Test System, and the specific performance of kicking techniques among TKD athletes. Using a randomized crossover design, 12 participants were involved in the study. Before and after 1 hour of training at 80% of maximal heart rate, participants were weighed and provided urine samples. All participants were randomly assigned to 3 different hydration conditions: the euhydrated (EUH) group had unrestricted access to fluid consumption, while the hypohydrated (HYP) and severely HYP (S-HYP) groups experienced reductions of 2.0% and 4.0% of their initial body weight, respectively. Results: The EUH group exhibited better reaction speed in reaction-time test-form S1 than the HYP and S-HYP groups. Notably, the EUH group demonstrated a significantly higher success rate in the front-side kick (EUH 98%, HYP 90%, S-HYP 88%; P <.05). However, the success rates of back roundhouse kick and free head kick were similar among the 3 statuses. Furthermore, postexercise heart rates were found to be significantly higher in the HYP and S-HYP groups compared with the EUH group. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the negative effects of dehydration on cognitive function and TKD-specific performance. It is recommended that TKD athletes maintain optimal hydration levels during training and competition to ensure optimal performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored goal-directed self-talk and its optimization through educational self-talk interventions, focusing on a novel sports-oriented board-game intervention. Examining a practitioner's experiences and diverse participant profiles, including an elite tennis player, a recreational athlete, a football referee, and a tennis coach, the research employed four in-depth case studies. A unique aspect of this study involved intentional control transfer from practitioner to client, documented through a practitioner diary and postintervention interviews. Participants generally expressed appreciation for the intervention; however, the coach's case necessitated bespoke adjustments, underscoring the importance of contextual sensitivity in applied practice. The educational self-talk intervention reportedly facilitated the analytical deconstruction of challenges, enhancing self-regulation through goal-directed self-talk. The study underscored the pedagogical merit of the board game and observed a substantive transfer of control from practitioner to participant over the intervention's longitudinal trajectory. Detailed recommendations have been crafted for practitioners to implement the educational self-talk intervention effectively in their practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a growing interest in emotions in sport psychology, little has been written about the contextual elements triggering athletes' emotional experience. This single case study aimed to analyze the inducers of an elite table tennis player's emotional experience throughout his career. He was ranked among the 15 best players in the world, and his career spanned more than 20 years. Inspired by the critical-incident method, we conducted a lengthy interview with the player, during which he related the most significant moments of his career. The categorization of the 96 critical incidents collected highlighted four inducers of positive emotions and five inducers of negative emotions, emerging over five periods (exponential progression, first difficulties, major difficulties, second career, and end of career). These findings contribute to the development of an innovative single-case-study design, allowing an understanding of the contextual origin of athletes' emotions over the long term. Finally, highlights are discussed and recommendations for the practice of sport psychology are formulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study focuses on how Norwegian ski jumpers performed in the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and the following FIS (International Ski and Snowboard Federation) ski flying World Championships 2022 in Vikersund, Norway, despite organizational conflict at the management level and intense and sustained media coverage the entire season. Five athletes (one third of the elite squad) were interviewed about how they coped with the stressors. The results revealed two main responses: One group avoided, as far as possible, hearing or reading about the conflicts and tried to stay in their "bubble" and focus on preparing for competition. The other group chose to follow the conflicts and was more willing to interact with the media, therefore experienced a higher degree of perceived stress, and consequently needed to employ a wider range of coping strategies. The findings highlight the importance of a consistent and effective management strategy in helping athletes to focus on training and competition preparation and insulate them from stressors generated by organizational turbulence and conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed media framing of athletes who have suffered mental ill health. The mass media play a crucial role in shaping public attitudes and perceptions surrounding mental health, and the present study aimed to examine the media reporting of athletes' mental ill health and to further explore how this reporting has changed over time. We examined the reporting of elite athletes in three U.K. media outlets between January 2000 and December 2019, identifying 75 athletes from 26 different sports. From analysis, four themes were developed to consider the content of media reporting and how it has changed over three time phases. The analysis revealed that media reporting of mental ill health has increased over time, and changes were observed in terms of the specific terminology used, with greater depth in the articles, such as journalists speaking to other professionals to construct the articles. This study contributes toward our growing understanding of the reporting of mental ill health by providing empirical evidence of the increased attention to the topic and increasingly responsible reporting in the media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mindfulness-based interventions have gained popularity among elite athletes, but their effectiveness in enhancing archery performance has been inconsistent. This study examined the feasibility of a 12-week mindfulness flow program (MFP) specifically designed for the archers and assessed the effect of the MFP on shooting performance. Twelve members of the Hong Kong Archery Team voluntarily participated in the present study. Their shooting performance, anxiety, mindfulness, and flow state were assessed before and after the MFP intervention. The results showed that the MFP was highly feasible, with 100% attendance. The athletes highly enjoyed the MFP sessions (mean rating: 7.9/10). Improved shooting performance, increased mindfulness, and flow state levels, and reduced anxiety were also observed after the intervention. These findings suggest a positive reception from and potential benefits for athletes. However, it is suggested to conduct additional research using randomized controlled trials to explore the program's effects and applicability in enhancing sports performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research into professional rugby union players' experiences of seeking formal support for their mental health exists, despite comparable rates of mental health issues among elite rugby players with the general population. This qualitative study explored professional players' actual experiences of accessing Rugby Players Ireland's mental well-being service, via separate focus group discussions with professional players (n = 5) and player development managers (n = 4) who refer players into the service. An inductive reflexive thematic analysis identified three themes detailing players' (a) journey to disclosure of their mental health difficulties, (b) their expectations and engagement with the well-being service, and (c) participants' reflections on mental health experiences in a high-performance environment. Embedding mental health as a key component of player development in high-performance environments, improving mental health literacy, normalizing mental health experiences, and encouraging help-seeking would help promote player well-being and support holistic development alongside sporting performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the daily energy expenditure of athletes during training is important to support recovery, adaptation, and the maintenance of performance. The aim of the current research was to assess the total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and the acute energy expenditure (EE) of tennis training sessions during habitual training of elite tennis players. Using a cohort study design, 27 (n = 10, male; age; 22.3 ± 3.2 years and n = 17, female; age: 23.8 ± 3.5 years) elite singles tennis players were assessed for TDEE and tennis training EE. Using Actiheart activity monitors during a 2- to 5-day training period, male players were analyzed for 26 days and 33 (1.3 ± 0.5 sessions/day) tennis training sessions, and female players for 43 days and 58 (1.2 ± 0.4 sessions/day) tennis training sessions. Male TDEE (4,708 ± 583 kcal/day) was significantly higher than female (3,639 ± 305 kcal/day). Male absolute and relative tennis training EEs (10.2 ± 2.3 kcal/min and 7.9 ± 1.4 kcal·hr−1·kg−1) were significantly higher than those of females (7.6 ± 1.0 kcal/min and 6.8 ± 0.9 kcal·hr−1·kg−1). The resting metabolic rate was assessed via indirect calorimetry. The physical activity level for both groups was 2.3 AU. The TDEE of male and female players during habitual training now highlights the continual cycle of high energy demands experienced by the elite tennis player. The broad ranges of TDEE and EE reported here suggest individual assessment and nutritional planning be prioritized, with a particular focus on carbohydrate requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This 2-year longitudinal study examined the development of upper-extremity bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and lean mass (LM) asymmetry magnitudes in male and female youth tennis players. Methods: Dominant and nondominant upper-extremity BMD, BMC, and LM values of 49 male and 31 female players were measured yearly using dual X-ray absorptiometry. From these values, asymmetry magnitudes were calculated and expressed as a percentage. Maturity offset was estimated using anthropometric measurements. Linear mixed effect models examined the development of BMD, BMC, and LM asymmetry magnitudes according to players' maturity offset, sex, and training volume. Results: Adjusted for sex and training volume, a 1-year increment in maturity offset was associated with a significant increase in BMD (1.3% [2.2%]; P <.001) and BMC (0.6% [2.4%]; P =.011) asymmetry magnitudes. Male players displayed significantly higher LM asymmetry magnitudes (Δ3.2% [8.4%]; P =.002) compared with their female counterparts. Training volume was not significantly associated with asymmetry magnitude development. Conclusion: In contrast to LM, male and female youth tennis players' upper-extremity bones are still responsive to mechanical loading with a significant increase in BMD and BMC asymmetry magnitudes according to maturity offset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate sleep is crucial for elite athletes' recovery, performance readiness, and immune response. Establishing reference ranges for elite athletes enables appropriate contextualization for designing and targeting sleep interventions. Purpose: To establish sleep-quality reference ranges for Olympic and Paralympic cohorts using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and explore differences based on sex and sport types. Methods: Team USA athletes (men = 805, women = 798) completed the PSQI as part of a health-history questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to create reference ranges and linear models, and χ2 test of independence determined differences in PSQI global and component scores between sex, games, season, and participation. Results: Six hundred thirty-two (39.43%) athletes reported poor sleep (PSQIGlobal ≥ 5). Men displayed later bedtimes (P =.006), better global PSQI scores, shorter sleep latency, less sleep disturbance, and less use of sleep medication than women (all P <.001). Winter Games participants had later bedtime (P =.036) and sleep offset time (P =.028) compared with Summer Games athletes. Team-sport athletes woke earlier than individual-sport athletes (P <.001). Individual-sport athletes were more likely to have low (P =.005) and mild (P =.045) risk for reduced sleep duration than team-sport athletes. Conclusion: These data provide PSQI-specific reference ranges to identify groups at greatest risk for poor sleep, who may benefit most from targeted sleep interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study explored how three professional Australian football coaches learned and understood mental toughness. Participants shared stories regarding mental toughness through semistructured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. Creative nonfiction was employed to develop a composite story. All participants' voices contributed equally to the narrative, which follows Sam (our composite coach) through three periods in his career: as a junior player, an elite footballer, and, finally, a coach in the professional football environment. Mental toughness was fundamentally determined by the sociocultural environment in which one was immersed. Athletes and coaches were expected to internalize dominant understandings of mental toughness and reinforce ideals and were punished if they deviated from mentally tough standards set up in their clubs. Mental toughness was defined by various values, beliefs, and norms that originated from the sociocultural environment, indicating the importance of context in understanding the roots of being mentally tough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While research advancements have substantially improved concussion management efforts, consideration for the psychological and social aspects of concussive injuries have remained largely absent from concussion protocols. The present study was undertaken to identify elite athletes' psychological and social needs during the recovery process. Elite athletes with a history of concussion and mental performance consultants who work with concussed elite athletes participated in focus group interviews to shed light on these needs. A thematic analysis of these focus groups revealed six psychological and social needs: acceptance, normality, confidence, self-efficacy, trust in relationships, and social support. These themes are framed within concussion literature to help initiate a conversation on how psychological and social needs should be addressed as part of multifaceted efforts to improve concussion recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to identify profiles of elite athlete mental well- and ill-being and study how the profiles (i.e., subgroups of athletes) differed in sport-related demands and resources. A total of 259 Finnish elite athletes (n = 170 active and n = 89 retired) completed quantitative self-report inventories. Through cluster analysis, four profiles of mental well- and ill-being were identified. Profile 1 was overrepresented by retired, older, and male athletes, and characterized by good mental well-being. Profile 2 consisted mainly of active athletes who reported mild risk for alcohol abuse. Profile 3 consisted mainly of women who displayed possible presence of an eating disorder. Profile 4 was typical of young athletes with mental ill-being. The balance between sport-related demands and resources appeared to be the healthiest in Profile 1 and worst in Profile 4. The present findings are beneficial for those who work with and/or provide psychological support to athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study explored athlete responses to the Compassion Motivation and Action Scales Self-Compassion Scale, examining its relationship with well-being. Athlete (N = 207; mean age 27.9 years) scores were consistent with previous population means. Scores on the Compassion Motivation and Action Scales Self-Compassion Scale did not differ between elite and nonelite athletes, nor did they correlate significantly with trait competitiveness. Significant differences emerged based on athlete well-being state, with athletes categorized as "flourishing" scoring higher on the total score and all subscales of the Compassion Motivation and Action Scales Self-Compassion Scale, as compared with those with "moderate mental health" (Cohen's ds from 0.58 to 0.92). Furthermore, the distress tolerance subscale significantly mediated the relationship between self-compassion intentions and well-being (indirect path: B = 0.034, p <.001). The results suggest that self-compassionate intentions are not enough, and athletes may need support to tolerate the distress that comes with moving toward one's own suffering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A decline in youth running was observed at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated whether the resumption of organized running after social distancing restrictions changed running habits or injury frequency in adolescent runners. Methods: Adolescents (age = 16.1 [2.1] y) who participated in long-distance running activities completed an online survey in the Spring and Fall of 2020. Participants self-reported average weekly running habits and whether they sustained an injury during the Fall 2020 season. Poisson regression models and 1-way analysis of variance compared running habits while Fisher exact test compared differences in frequencies of injuries during Fall 2020 among season statuses (full, delayed, and canceled). Results: All runners, regardless of season status, increased weekly distance during Fall 2020. Only runners with a full Fall 2020 season ran more times per week and more high-intensity runs per week compared with their Spring 2020 running habits. There were no differences in running volume or running-related injury frequency among Fall 2020 season statuses. Conclusions: There were no significant differences in running-related injury (RRI) frequency among runners, regardless of season status, following the resumption of cross-country. Health care providers may need to prepare for runners to increase running volume and intensity following the resumption of organized team activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate performance progression from early-junior to peak performance age and compare variety in race distances and swimming strokes between swimmers of various performance levels. Methods: Using a longitudinal data analysis and between-groups comparisons 306,165 annual best times of male swimmers (N = 3897) were used to establish a ranking based on annual best times at peak performance age. Individual performance trajectories were retrospectively analyzed to compare distance and stroke variety. Performances of world-class finalists and international- and national-class swimmers (swimming points: 886 [30], 793 [28], and 698 [28], respectively) were compared across 5 age groups—13–14, 15–16, 17–18, 19–20, and 21+ years—using a 2-way analysis of variance with repeated measures. Results: World-class finalists are not significantly faster than international-class swimmers up to the 17- to 18-year age group (F2|774 = 65, P <.001, η p 2 =.14) but specialize in short- or long-distance races at a younger age. World-class breaststroke finalists show faster breaststroke times compared to their performance in other swimming strokes from an early age (P <.05), while world-class freestyle and individual medley finalists show less significant differences to their performance in other swimming strokes. Conclusions: While federation officials should aim for late talent selection, that is, not before the 17- to 18-year age group, coaches should aim to identify swimmers' preferred race distances early on. However, the required stroke variety seems to be specific for each swimming stroke. Breaststroke swimmers could aim for early and strong specialization, while freestyle and individual medley swimmers could maintain large and very large stroke variety, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizational culture in sports affects well-being, performance, and overall success. Although team culture has been explored within able-bodied teams, little is known about culture development within parasport. Using a descriptive case study approach, our study examined the culture development and experiences of an elite parasport team. Two semistructured individual telephone interviews were conducted with nine participants (athletes and staff), and one athlete-participant completed one interview. An inductive thematic analysis revealed two themes: approach to culture development and team culture components. Culture development was linked with facilitative leadership and important resources. This supported the team to create their shared values and mechanisms, including a behavioral framework, other artifacts (e.g., shared language and team motto), and a relaxed environment. These helped to maintain their agreed culture and benefited their well-being, progress, and team cohesion. Our results offer a starting point regarding research into the culture of elite parasport and have practical implications for managers, coaches, and psychologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical Scenario: Injuries that affect the groin region are among the most common in football players. To prevent this condition, studies have focused on strengthening the adductors, hip flexors, or abdominal muscles. Recent investigations have used an eccentric-biased exercise (Copenhagen Adduction Exercise [CAE]) that promotes functional and architectural adaptations in the muscle tissue, though its effect on injury risk reduction is unknown. Clinical Question: Can the Copenhagen Adduction Exercise prevent groin injuries in soccer players? Summary of Key Findings: The literature was searched for studies investigating the potential groin injury risk reduction effect of the CAE. (1) Three studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this appraisal; (2) one study observed a significantly lower injury rate ratio favoring the group that used the CAE program; and (3) 2 studies found similar or higher injury rates in the intervention groups, not supporting the inclusion of the CAE as a preventative tool. Clinical Bottom Line: There is conflicting evidence that usage of the CAE is superior to not performing adductor strengthening exercises in mitigating the risk of sustaining groin injuries. Given the evidence supporting these findings, it is advisable to exercise caution when contemplating the incorporation of the CAE into training regimens aimed at preventing groin injuries. Strength of Recommendation: There is Grade B evidence to suggest that inclusion of the CAE may not be associated with reduced injury rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Projecting authenticity is crucial for athletes engaged in personal branding. Prior scholarship has emphasized the "frontstage" of authenticity: what tactics athletes use to present themselves and how audiences perceive such tactics. But it has not yet examined the "backstage": why athletes pursue authenticity and the strategic considerations involved in such ongoing self-presentations. Using a constructivist grounded theory that draws on interviews with 30 elite athletes engaged in personal branding, we unpack these backstage processes, which are not straightforward but entail an ongoing cycle of authenticity negotiation. Our model of authenticity negotiation identifies conflicting authenticity demands and constraints imposed by various actors, which athletes attempt to resolve over time using a range of authenticity management tactics. By modeling the backstage processes in authenticity negotiation, our research integrates, contextualizes, and suggests extensions to the existing frontstage work on authenticity. It offers guidance to athletes and practitioners on managing athlete brands and stakeholder collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes face unique mental health stressors, including internal/external pressure, time displacement, and physical injury. In addition, athletes who experience mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety reference the role of social factors—specifically stigma—as barriers to mental health. The present study draws on 37 testimonials from The Players' Tribune in which athletes disclosed mental illness. A theoretical thematic analysis pinpointed themes within the testimonials of athletes who elucidated and refuted myths concerning mental health in sport. Through disclosure, the athletes challenged stigma by protesting myths that discourage help-seeking behavior in sport. The analysis identified six themes in the myths concerning (a) professional success, (b) strength, (c) identity, (d) the sports story treatment of mental health, (e) sport as escape, and (f) isolation. Implications are discussed in relation to changing social norms in sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to study the prevalence of nonaccidental violence among elite athletes in Finland, the predisposing factors to violence, and its consequences for mental well-being and ill-being. A total of 2,045 Finnish athletes participated in the study. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to analyze the associations. The results indicated that 38.8% had experienced psychological abuse, 14.7% bullying, 13.3% gender-based harassment, and 5.5% sexual harassment. Female and younger athletes reported more violent experiences than male and older athletes. A team's safe atmosphere and readiness to act protected athletes from nonaccidental violence, whereas the coach did not play a role. Nonaccidental violence, particularly psychological abuse, was associated with reduced mental well-being and increased ill-being. Our results suggest that it is worth investing in the team's mutual relationships and safe cooperation when ensuring appropriate behavior and preventing nonaccidental violence among athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antidoping policy regulates and punishes the use of substances that are listed on a Prohibited List (PL). These substances are colloquially known as 'performance-enhancing substances'. There is very little empirical evidence of enhancement for most of the substances on the PL raising the possibility that the perceived enhancement of performance experienced by an athlete is a placebo effect. A placebo effect is a response to an inert substance that is strongly influenced by psychological and social cues in the surrounding environment. It is our contention that, given the lack of proper empirical testing of the substances on the PL, it is in fact the appearance of a substance on the PL that has the strongest performance-enhancing effect in elite athletes. This disconnect between science and WADA's code raises the question of what we really object to: real performance enhancement achieved using substances on the PL or performance enhancement that occurs because WADA has told us that the substance will enhance performance by placing it on the PL? In this case, antidoping policy would punish those who believe the performance-enhancing myth at the heart of the PL thus leading to a deeply flawed policy that creates its own victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined posttravel perceptual responses of national-team footballers (soccer) following different flight paths, arrival/departure times, and trip contexts. Methods: Details of 396 flights from national-team players (N = 68) were obtained and verified via an online flight database. Each player provided ratings of perceptual fatigue, sleep, soreness, stress, and jet lag for 2 days before and after each trip. The flight path (continents of departure and arrival), travel context (into vs out of national team), and arrival and departure times were obtained for each trip. Linear mixed models compared the pretravel with posttravel change in perceptual responses based on flight path, context, and schedule. Results: Perceived jet-lag ratings were more responsive to travel variables (R2 =.48) than other perceptual ratings (R2 <.26). Travel from Asia to Europe (P <.05) and Europe to Australia (P <.001) had significantly higher jet-lag ratings than all other paths. Fatigue scores were worst following Asia to Europe (P <.05) and Europe to Australia (P <.05) travel, while sleep scores were worst following Europe to Australia travel (P <.01). Perceptual responses were poorer following travel from national team to club compared with all other travel contexts (P <.05). Arrival during the daytime (11 AM to 5 PM) resulted in better perceptual responses than early-morning or late-night arrivals (P <.05). Conclusions: Perceived jet-lag ratings are more responsive to travel demands than perceptual wellness scales in national-team football athletes. Poorer perceptual responses may be expected when travel is longer in nature, ends later in the day, or involves travel out of the national team back to club. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ‘cycling hour‐record’ is one of the most prestigious events in cycling. However, little detailed analysis of such attempts is available. In preparation for a successful cycling hour‐record attempt, an elite cyclist performed a full‐hour simulation to provide insights into performance, physiological, aerodynamic and biomechanical limitations that could be identified in the preparation for a subsequent official attempt. Performance (speed, lap time, power and cadence), physiological (heart rate and estimated body temperature), aerodynamic (CDA, helmet angle, rotation and rock) and biomechanical (helmet, thigh and foot position changes) measurements were made throughout the attempt, in which an even‐pacing strategy was employed where the point of task failure was defined as the lap which the rider could no longer perform at the targeted lap split (16.6 s) or quicker. The cyclist did not achieve the target distance (54,000 m) during the simulation. The final distance achieved for the hour was 53,250 m. Task failure occurred at 38 min and 33 s (lap 139/34,750 m) into the simulation. Notably, there was a decrease in power output, accompanied with an increase in the estimated body temperature, changes in pedalling kinematics and an increase in aerodynamic drag. The reduction in performance (leading to task failure) during a cycling hour record simulation is underpinned by a decrease in power output as well as an increase in aerodynamic drag due to biomechanical changes in the cycling technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to analyze the competitive performance and pacing strategies (PS) of medalists and non-medalists in different rounds of the 400 m and 800 m freestyle at the World Swimming Championships. Method: The 2017–2024 World Swimming Championships and 161 elite swimmers were selected. First, intra-athlete coefficients of variability (CVs) were evaluated using linear mixed effects modeling and changes in competitive performance (Δ); second, descriptive statistics of position lap time; finally, a computer algorithm was used to obtain PS, then a two-way ANOVA was performed. Result: (i) The PS was effective in 87.5% of the swimmers in the finals compared to the heats (CVs > 0.5%), but 73.8% of the males and 86.8% of the females showed an improvement in performance prior to the finals (Δ < 0); (ii) Gold medalists had an average position no lower than the top 2 and established themselves in the top 3 positions more than 90% of the time, aiming to remain in the top 3 until the final 100 m if they were to win a medal; (iii) The female swimmers in 400 m were more in the heats utilize the inverted-J (race velocity change curve profile as inverted-J), men for the fast-start-even, in the final, female remain the inverted-J, men change to the U-shaped (race velocity change curve profile as U-shaped), and in the 800 m, the swimmers were unified adopt the U-shaped. Discussion: The elite swimmers who qualified for the finals performed better in the heats and semifinals because their PS were more effective. Others, however, did not have a chance to reach the finals because their PS efficiency was lower, and their competitive performance improved less or even regressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Golf is an international sport that has become increasingly more popular in recent times. Previous literature has shown that golf approach shots are crucial to the success of elite golfers. However, there is no known publication investigating distances less than 100 yards, known as the short game. The primary purpose of this study was to collect comprehensive data on 3D biomechanical variables of the short game at four target distances in college-aged, male golfers. Participants were instructed to hit five successful shots at each target distance: 30 yards, 50 yards, 70 yards and full swing (maximal distance) yardage. A motion capture system recorded kinematic and temporal parameters of golfer movement, additional to a golf simulator that collected ball carry distance of each shot. Distance did have a significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect on swing phase timing, angular velocities and motion sequencing. Movement sequencing within the short game displayed irregular patterns across all distances and phases, with a partial proximal-to-distal pattern (pelvis → shoulder girdle → arms → club) at best. The findings of this study show that the short game swing did present its own unique motion patterns that will require practice as its own skill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Quantifying and managing the matches and training loads of players is important for injury prevention. As rugby union is a full-contact sport and frequent contact injuries occur, it might also be important to quantify and manage players' contact loads. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between contact load and injury incidence in elite rugby union players. Methods: Forty-eight elite rugby union players (27.0 ± 3.5 years) in Japan were monitored during one season (8 months). The contact load, an index of training load, was evaluated as collision count and collision load measured using a global positioning system device, and then calculated using the acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) based on the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA). The association between the EWMA-ACWR of contact load and injury incidence was analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Results: Of the 58 injuries during one season, 70.7% were contact injuries. Collision counts and collision load calculated by EWMA-ACWR were associated with the risk of injury (p < 0.01 both), with the odds ratios were 4.20 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.74–10.11] and 4.44 (95% CI: 1.95–10.13), respectively. Conclusion: Contact load calculated using EWMA-ACWR was associated with injury in elite rugby union players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elite athletes are exposed to many different sport-specific stressors that may put them at particular risk for mental health symptoms and disorders. E-mental health interventions could be a feasible option to support elite athletes in need. The aim of the present study was to assess the acceptance of e-mental health interventions among elite athletes and explore its underlying drivers and barriers. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with N = 382 elite athletes. Of these, N = 275 (71.99%, 167 females) were included in the statistical analyses. The impact of various sociodemographic, sport-related and medical characteristics on acceptance was assessed. EHealth-related data and acceptance of e-mental health interventions were examined using a modified assessment based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Results: Overall, the acceptance of e-mental health interventions in elite athletes can be classified as high (M = 3.69 SD = 0.97). In the UTAUT regression model sex, financial situation, depression symptoms, digital confidence, digital overload as well as the UTAUT predictors performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence predicted acceptance significantly. Conclusions: The UTAUT model has proven to be a valuable instrument in predicting of acceptance of e-mental health interventions in elite athletes. Given the strong association between acceptance and future use, new interventions should focus on the explored factors to establish effective e-mental health interventions for elite athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-Confrontation Micro-Phenomenological Interviews (SCMPIs) aim to capture the fine-grained details of an athlete's experience, focusing on pre-reflective consciousness without resorting to post-hoc rationalizations. This specific type of self-confrontation interview was developed in the domain of work analysis in cognitive ergonomics. Despite its integration into numerous research studies in sport performance and training practices, the direct effects of the SCMPI on athletes remain underexplored. In this perspective article, we provide a brief overview of the theoretical foundations of SCMPI as well as a description of the paradox of the SCMPI situation. Throughout this paper, we highlight the unsolved questions around use of SCMPIs to improve athletes' performance by enhancing reflective thinking as well as pre-reflective awareness. Furthermore, we discuss the epistemological and practical considerations regarding the selection and use of activity traces in SCMPIs. The paper calls for further research to evaluate the SCMPI's impact on performance in elite athletes, emphasizing the need for a rational application of this method in both research and practical interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether repeated transitions between seated and standing positions has a different physiological response compared to continuous use of either seated position or standing position during steep uphill cycling among elite cyclists. Ten elite male cyclists completed three 5-min treadmill cycling tests at an inclination of 6.8° with constant individual-based speed resulting in a work intensity close to the aerobic threshold. During the first and third test, the participants used standing position (ST test) and seated position (SE test) or vice versa, whereas in the second test, they made repeated transitions between standing and seated positions every 10 s (RT test). The last 2 min of each test was used to measure the mean values of oxygen uptake (V̇O2) and respiratory exchange ratio, which were used to calculate the metabolic rate (MR) and gross efficiency (GE). Additionally, the blood-lactate concentration before and after (Lapost) each test was determined. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effect of cycling position on the physiological response. No significant differences between tests were observed for the variables related to aerobic energy expenditure (i.e., V̇O2, MR and GE), whereas the RT test was associated with a significantly lower Lapost compared to the ST and SE tests. Steep uphill cycling, at an intensity close to the aerobic threshold, with repeated transitions between standing and seated positions, did not have a higher oxygen consumption; instead, the blood-lactate concentration was lower during the RT test compared to that under continuous use of either seated or standing position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The sport of cycling has witnessed phenomenal growth over the past decade. Globally, over 200 million television hours across five continents watched the recent inaugural World Championships in Glasgow, in 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the world cycling governing body, has highlighted its mission to " promote and support research in cycling epidemiology and medicine, especially for the benefit of lesser-known disciplines" within its 2030 Agenda. This paper outlines a proposed protocol to conduct a systematic review that comprehensively analyses and synthesises the existing literature about cycling-related injuries and illness across all competitive disciplines. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines will be followed through each stage of this systematic review. Cycling is an umbrella term used for many individual disciplines. Investigation of all types of injuries and/or illnesses sustained during training and/or competition among competitive athletes across all disciplines will be included in this review. A computerised, systematic literature search will be conducted in electronic databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Independent screening by two reviewers in a two-step process: title/abstract screening followed by full-text review. The reference lists of included articles will be searched to identify any other potentially relevant articles. Narrative synthesis and tabular/charted presentation of the extracted data will be included. Discussion: This protocol paper outlines the methodology to conduct a systematic review of injuries and illness across all competitive cycling disciplines. The aims of outlining this systematic review protocol are to aid research transparency, help reduce publication bias, prevent selective publication, and prevent the selective reporting of results. Future systematic reviews based on the proposed protocol will summarise the known prevalence, incidences, locations and burden of injury and illness across the sport of cycling. Trial Registration: This study has been registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number CRD42024502703). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effects of a repeated-sprint training in hypoxia induced by voluntary hypoventilation at low lung volume (RSH-VHL) including end-expiratory breath holding (EEBH) of maximal duration. Methods: Over a 4-week period, twenty elite judo athletes (10 women and 10 men) were randomly split into two groups to perform 8 sessions of rowing repeated-sprint exercise either with RSH-VHL (each sprint with maximal EEBH) or with unrestricted breathing (RSN, 10-s sprints). Before (Pre-), 5 days after (Post-1) and 12 days after (Post-2) the last training session, participants completed a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) test on a rowing ergometer (8 × 25-s "all-out" repetitions interspersed with 25 s of passive recovery). Power output (PO), oxygen uptake, perceptual-motor capacity (turning off a traffic light with a predetermined code), cerebral (Δ[Hbdiff]) and muscle (Δ[Hb/Mb]diff) oxygenation, cerebral total haemoglobin concentration (Δ[THb]) and muscle total haemoglobin/myoglobin concentration (Δ[THb/Mb]) were measured during each RSA repetition and/or recovery period. Results: From Pre-to Post-1 and Post-2, maximal PO, mean PO (MPO) of the first half of the test (repetitions 1–4), oxygen uptake, end-repetition cerebral Δ[Hbdiff] and Δ[THb], end-repetition muscle Δ[Hb/Mb]diff and Δ[THb/Mb] and perceptual-motor capacity remained unchanged in both groups. Conversely, MPO of the second half of the test (repetitions 5–8) was higher at Post-1 than at Pre-in RSH-VHL only (p < 0.01), resulting in a lower percentage decrement score over the entire RSA test (20.4% ± 6.5% vs. 23.9% ± 7.0%, p = 0.01). Furthermore, MPO (5–8) was greater in RSH-VHL than in RSN at Post-1 (p = 0.04). These performance results were accompanied by an increase in muscle Δ[THb/Mb] (p < 0.01) and a concomitant decrease in cerebral Δ[THb] (p < 0.01) during the recovery periods of the RSA test at Post-1 in RSH-VHL. Conclusion: Four weeks of RSH-VHL including maximal EEBH improved the ability of elite judo athletes to repeat high-intensity efforts. The performance improvement, observed 5 days but not 12 days after training, may be due to enhanced muscle perfusion. The unchanged oxygen uptake and the decrease in cerebral regional blood volume observed at the same time suggest that a blood volume redistribution occurred after the RSH-VHL intervention to meet the increase in muscle perfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Football is a physically demanding sport that requires effective recovery strategies to maintain performance level and prevent injuries. This study investigated if a single 1-h hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) session affects recovery and performance after a football match in elite youth players. Methods: Twenty elite youth football players (age 17.3 ± 0.5 years) were randomly assigned to a HBOT group or a control group (CON). They played a 90-min football game and underwent either a 60-min HBOT or placebo intervention. Before (T1), at the end of the match (T2), 1 h after HBOT or CON session (T3), and 12 h after HBOT session (T4), subjects underwent biochemical (serum samples (myoglobin (MB), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)) and performance measurements (linear speed at 5 m, 10 m and 20 m, squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ) and countermovement jump with arm swing (CMJa)). The Hooper Index (HI) was collected and heart rate was measured during the game. Results: The football match induced significant increases in all biochemical markers, but no significant differences were found between the HBOT and control group in biochemical or performance parameters at any time point. However, there was a significant interaction effect between time and group for HI (p = 0.012, η2 = 0.124), with the HBOT group showing significantly lower HI values (8.6 ± 2.41) than the control group (11.0 ± 3.23) at 1 h post-HBOT. Discussion: A single 1-h session of HBOT did not significantly affect recovery or performance parameters in elite youth football players, though it did show a moderate positive affect on the HI at 1 h post-HBOT. Further studies should explore the impact of either longer or sequential HBOT sessions on recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study explored the effects of 6 weeks of variable resistance training (VRT) and constant resistance training (CRT) within complex training, on muscle strength and punch performance. Methods: Twenty-four elite female boxers from the China National team were divided randomly between an experimental group (VRT) and a control group (CRT). Maximum strength of the upper and lower limbs, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and punch performance (single, 10s and 30s continuous) were assessed pre- and post- intervention. Results: VRT and CRT showed significant increases (p < 0.001) in the bench press (ES = 1.79 and 1.07, respectively), squat (ES = 1.77 and 1.10, respectively), and CMJ (ES = 1.13 and 0.75, respectively). The bench press (p < 0.05) and squat (p < 0.05) improved significantly more following VRT compared to CRT. Additionally, single punch performance (speed, force, and power) increased significantly in the experimental group (ES = 1.17–1.79) and in the control group (ES = 0.58–1.32), except for the lead punch force in the control group (p > 0.05, ES = 0.20). 10s continuous punch performance (number, speed, force, and power) increased significantly (both p < 0.05) in the experimental group (ES = 0.52–1.65) and in the control group (ES = 0.32–0.81). 30s continuous punch performance (number, force, and power) increased significantly increased significantly (both p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups for punch performance. Conclusion: These findings provide evidence that VRT may improve maximum muscle strength in both upper and lower limbs, vertical jump and punch performance in elite amateur boxers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The main objective of this study was to investigate the risk of eating disorders, exercise addiction, depression, and low energy availability (LEA) in Danish female and male elite compared with sub-elite athletes. Design: A cross-sectional study. Setting: An online survey. Participants: A total of 410 elite athletes (mean age 20.1 years, 51% females) and 206 sub-elite athletes (mean age 21.3 years, 52% females) from 15 different sports. Assessment of Risk Factors: Eating Disorders, exercise addiction, depression, and LEA. Main OutcomeMeasures: The Sick Control, One Stone (6.5 kg), Fat, Food, the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire, the Exercise Addiction Inventory, the Major Depression Inventory, and the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire or the Low Energy Availability in Males Questionnaire. Results: We found that more female sub-elite athletes compared with elite athletes had risk of eating disorders (EDs) (37.4% vs 23.4%; P, 0.012) and the same was found for males (23.2% vs 10.4%; P 5 0.005). More athletes with risk of EDs had risk of exercise addiction (12.8 vs 5.4%, P 5 0.006), depression (27.3 vs 4.2%, P, 0.001), and LEA (females 55.1 vs 40.7%, P 5 0.024, and males 29.4 vs 13.7%, P 5 0.036, respectively) compared with athletes without risk of EDs. Conclusions: Sub-elite athletes have a higher risk of eating disorders compared with elite athletes. Regular screening of ED symptoms and associated conditions in elite and especially sub-elite athletes may ensure early identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like most global sports, professional tennis is eager to claim that politics has no place on its playing field. On closer investigation, however, this 'myth of autonomy' soon cracks. In addition to adding tennis as a much-needed case to the study of sport and international affairs, this article develops the concept of 'the circuit' to approach phenomena that criss-cross traditional levels of analysis in international relations. In its first part, the article zooms in on the practice of writing celebratory messages onto the lenses of TV cameras as an example of the power relations that exist in and around professional tennis courts today. In its second part, it zooms out to map the themes and questions that have framed tennis as a political activity around the world and over time. The analysis identifies and characterizes the global tennis circuit as a site within which many of the most pressing political questions of our time are contained, focusing on the prestigious tournaments which make up the Grand Slam, and the elite athletes that participate in them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to analyse the consequences of a congested schedule (due to the COVID-19 lockdown) on creatine kinase (CK) in elite football players using GPS tracking technology. A total of 17 elite football players were monitored in training and competition with a global positioning system. Variables including total distance, high-intensity distance, and distance acceleration and deceleration were analysed. Different measurements of serum creatine kinase (CK) concentration were performed on match day (MD) and at 24 h (MD+1), 48 h (MD+2), and 72 h (MD+3) after each match to study the muscle damage of each individual player caused during the match. The results showed a significant increase in physical demands in training (in relative terms regarding the match) at MD+3 compared to MD+1 and MD+2. Furthermore, at +72 h, CK decreases to a value almost the same as that before MD. On the other hand, the players with lower demands for high-intensity actions in the match showed a higher reduction in the concentration of CK at MD+3 compared to MD+1 and MD+2 (p < 0.05). It became evident that players with high-intensity demand and a high number of accelerations and decelerations need more time to assimilate the match load and can remain in a state of muscle fatigue for up to 3 days. In addition, a congested schedule can lead to a state of chronic fatigue in elite football players, limiting physical performance and possibly increasing the potential risk of injury for football players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airtime is crucial for high-rotation tricks in snowboard halfpipe performance, significantly impacting trick difficulty, the primary judging criterion. This study aims to enhance the detection of take-off and landing events using inertial measurement unit (IMU) data in conjunction with machine learning algorithms since manual video-based methods are too time-consuming. Eight elite German National Team snowboarders performed 626 halfpipe tricks, recorded by two IMUs at the lateral lower legs and a video camera. The IMU data, synchronized with video, were labeled manually and segmented for analysis. Utilizing a 1D U-Net convolutional neural network (CNN), we achieved superior performance in all of our experiments, establishing new benchmarks for this binary segmentation task. In our extensive experiments, we achieved an 80.34 % lower mean Hausdorff distance for unseen runs compared with the threshold approach when placed solely on the left lower leg. Using both left and right IMUs further improved performance ( 83.37 % lower mean Hausdorff). For data from an algorithm-unknown athlete (Zero-Shot segmentation), the U-Net outperformed the threshold algorithm by 67.58 %, and fine-tuning on athlete-specific (Few-Shot segmentation) runs improved the lower mean Hausdorff to 78.68 %. The fine-tuned model detected takeoffs with median deviations of 0.008 s (IQR 0.030 s), landing deviations of 0.005 s (IQR 0.020 s), and airtime deviations of 0.000 s (IQR 0.027 s). These advancements facilitate real-time feedback and detailed biomechanical analysis, enhancing performance and trick execution, particularly during critical events, such as take-off and landing, where precise time-domain localization is crucial for providing accurate feedback to coaches and athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The social construction of pregnancy emphasizes the mother's responsibility for the developing fetus. Hence, certain activities, such as participation in competitive sport, are often constructed as inappropriate during pregnancy. While expert opinion tends to stress caution, the diversity of athlete mothers' experiences challenge these dominant discourses. Less is known about how peers and other stakeholders in sport view the participation of pregnant athletes. Knowledge of such attitudes is essential to understanding the position of women in a specific society and the barriers to their autonomy. Hence, we examined survey responses from different sport stakeholders (N = 540) in Finland. Drawing on relational dialectics theory (Baxter, L. A. (2011). Voicing relationships. Sage.), we used contrapuntal analysis to identify different discourses on the compatibility of pregnancy and sport, and their interplay. Three discourses were identified: an equality discourse, which emphasizes that sport belongs to everyone, and that pregnant people should be accepted and supported in sporting environments; a responsibility discourse, which constructs pregnancy as fragility and sport as potentially dangerous for the athlete and the fetus; and an incompatibility discourse, which constructs pregnancy as a disease and unacceptable in sporting environments. Our analysis shows that medicalized, authoritative knowledge is the master strategy used to keep women out of male social spaces during pregnancy. The findings of our study highlight the ongoing struggle for reproductive justice in a patriarchal world order. To advance women's position in society and support the autonomy of all individuals, viable professional guidelines and organizational policies must be formulated and applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]