Scientific Journal of Sport and Performance

Neuromuscular recruitment runs

2025-10-24T10:07:21+02:00

In endurance training, the neuromuscular system is often neglected in favor of aerobic and metabolic development. This article introduces Neuromuscular Recruitment Runs (NRRs) as a critical but underutilized training modality that addresses this imbalance. NRRs are short, high-quality sprint-based sessions designed to activate fast-twitch muscle fibers (Type IIa/IIx) without inducing metabolic fatigue. By stimulating high-threshold motor units within a low-fatigue structure, NRRs preserve stride mechanics, cadence, and posture—especially in the later stages of races. Drawing on research from human and equine physiology, the article argues that NRRs complement the traditional three pillars of endurance training (aerobic base, threshold development, and VO_2max) by adding a fourth: neuromuscular efficiency. Practical implementation strategies, session structures, and adaptive benefits are discussed in detail, along with supporting evidence from recent mechanistic studies. Ultimately, NRRs are shown to enhance running economy, delay biomechanical breakdown, and support long-term performance by maintaining the neural pathways required for efficient movement. Rather than replacing core training, NRRs complete it—filling a subtle but vital gap in endurance preparation.

Effect of different types of physical exercise on blood pressure in overweight male subjects aged 50-70 in the city of Alicante

2025-10-02T14:05:46+02:00

The objective of this study was to compare different types of physical exercise on blood pressure (BP) in overweight, medicated hypertensive subjects aged between 50 and 70 years. 30 male subjects (mean ± standard deviation; age: 60.06 ± 5.22 years; height: 1.72 ± 0.06 m; body weight: 81.16 ± 9.66 kg; body mass index: 27.58 ± 1.64 kg/m²) were evaluated using different training strategies and divided into three groups. The Concurrent Training (CT) group consisted of 12 subjects, performing combined strength (40-80% of 1RM) and endurance training (40-80% of VO_2max). Nine subjects participated in handgrip isometric training (HT) group, performing isometric contractions using a dynamometer (4x2'/1' bilaterally). The control group (CG) consisted of nine subjects. Significant differences (p < .05) were found between the CT and HT groups after 8 weeks of intervention and in the acute effect of the sessions on systolic blood pressure (SBP). Furthermore, it was established that subjects with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 27.5 kg/m² and a waist-hip ratio (WHR) greater than 1 obtained more changes in their BP compared to subjects with lower BMI and WHR. Our study indicated that the implementation of CT and HT can reduce BP in hypertensive subjects.

Involvement of irisin in passive blood flow restriction for preventing disuse muscle atrophy in rats

2025-10-02T14:05:38+02:00

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of blood flow restriction (BFR) without exercise on muscle fibre atrophy by muscle wet weight and muscle relative weight ratio. Furthermore, to confirm the involvement of irisin in BFR by measuring the haemodynamics of irisin, which has an inhibitory effect on muscle atrophy after BFR. Male Wistar rats were assigned to three groups: spontaneous rearing group, tail suspension group and tail suspension plus blood flow restriction group. Soleus muscle wet weight, relative weight ratio, and serum concentrations of irisin were determined after the respective treatments for 6 weeks. The muscle relative weight ratio of the soleus were greater in the tail suspension plus BFR group compared to the tail suspension group (p < .05). Significantly lower serum irisin levels in the tail suspension plus BFR group versus the natural rearing group (p < .05). The effect of blood flow restriction without exercise in preventing the progression of muscle atrophy was confirmed by assessment of muscle dissection. Blood sampling immediately after BFR significantly reduced serum irisin levels in rats whose muscle atrophy was suppressed by BFR, relative to the control group.

Exploring ACL risk factors differences between quick and max drop jump

2025-10-24T10:07:12+02:00

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears in most common in female athletes often occur during rapid/reactive landings. Although drop jumps are commonly used to assess ACL injury risk, it remains unclear which type is more sensitive to detecting high-risk movement patterns. The purpose of this study was to investigate which of the two types of drop jumps, max vertical jump (DMVJ) and quick vertical jump (DQVJ), is more sensitive identifying ACL injury risk factors. Forty-three NCAA Division II female athletes participated in the study. The participants completed three trials of each drop jump while kinematics, kinetics, and EMG data were collected. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon tests with Holm–Bonferroni correction (α = .05) were used for analysis. Lower knee flexion, knee adduction angles were observed at DQVJ (p < .05). DQVJ showed higher peak knee abduction angular velocity, peak vertical ground reaction force BW, and maximal rate of force development (p < .05). Muscle activity was also greater in DQVJ, for the semitendinosus and vastus lateralis muscles (p < .05). The DQVJ elicited stiffer landings, increased frontal-plane knee motion, and altered VL–ST activation, supporting its use as a sensitive and practical tool for identifying ACL-risk mechanics in female athletes.

Bounce or step

2025-10-02T14:05:44+02:00

This study investigates the evolution of footwork techniques in elite épée fencing, focusing on the traditional stepping method versus a modern bouncing technique. Using time-motion analysis of 163 bouts from the 2012 and 2020 Olympic Games, the research categorised footwork into two types: stepping (heel-to-toe) and bouncing (ball-of-foot, synchronous movement). Results revealed a significant shift in footwork preferences over time, with female fencers predominantly using bouncing footwork, which was significantly associated with higher attack success in both Olympic cycles. Male fencers, however, showed greater success with stepping footwork. Statistical analysis confirmed moderate to weak associations between footwork type and attack success, with 66.7% of Olympic medallists using bouncing footwork, though gold medals were more often won with stepping. The findings suggest that while both footwork styles can be effective, their success may depend on sex, tactical preference, and possibly national coaching strategies. This is the first empirical study to directly compare these footwork styles in fencing, highlighting the need for further biomechanical research and supporting a more individualised approach to athlete development.

Effects of an eight week training regimen with a novel bench press pad compared to a traditional bench on upper body strength and performance in collegiate American football players

2025-10-02T14:05:43+02:00

This study examined the efficacy of resistance training utilizing a novel bench press pad (BPAD) to improve performance in the one-repetition maximum (1-RM) bench press, the National Football League (NFL) 225-lb reps to-fatigue bench press test (NFL-225 Test), and a seated medicine ball throw (SMBT) following an 8-week, two-block periodized bench press training program. Thirty male collegiate football players with a history of moderate resistance training were randomized to one of two groups, each utilizing either a novel bench press pad or traditional flat bench (CONT). The participants exercised thrice weekly for eight weeks (totalling 24 sessions) while also participating in a simultaneous 8-week off-season training program. The bench press exercises were incorporated into the regular 1-hour sessions occurring three times per week and divided into two identical block periods, which differed only in the equipment used. The training session comprised three chest press exercises, upper and lower chest presses, as well as fly exercises, which enabled the application of different variations of external loads to the pectoral muscles. Both groups exhibited significant improvements in 1-RM BP, NFL-225 Test, and SMBT after 8 weeks (all p < .001), with the BPAD group demonstrating a significantly greater increase compared to the CONT group in all performance outcome measures (all p < .001). These results suggest that the use of a BPAD intervention may provide an additive effect to bench press training, which can elicit greater upper body strength, power and performance enhancements.

Differences in technical performance by team ranking and match location in three consecutive English Premier League seasons

2025-10-02T14:05:42+02:00

This study aimed to compare the technical performance among high-ranked, medium-ranked, and low-ranked teams over three consecutive seasons (2021-2022 to 2023-2024) of the English Premier League (EPL), and to compare the technical performance at home and away for each group. Data were collected from Whoscored, EPL, and the Transfermarket websites. A one-way ANOVA and an independent t-test were used to analyse data. Results indicated that high-ranked teams outperformed medium- and low-ranked teams in most attacking and goal scoring, passing and organizing variables (p < .05). Meanwhile, low- and medium-ranked teams excelled in long balls and defending variables, including tackles, interceptions, shot blocks, clearances, and total saves (p < .05). Across all groups, performance was better at home for total shots, shots on target, shots off target, shots from open play, crosses, key passes, and clearances (p < .05). However, pass completion was the only variable that was better at home for high-ranked teams (p < .05). In conclusion, high-ranked teams excel in technical performance, particularly in attacking and goal scoring, organizing and passing variables. Playing at home is an important factor in achieving victory, especially for high- and medium-ranked teams. Therefore, the researchers recommend adopting tactical approaches and recruiting skilled players to achieve top positions in the EPL.

Contribution of some biomechanical variables to discus throw performance in youth

2025-10-02T14:05:40+02:00

This study examines the biomechanical parameters that influence discus performance in youth throwers. Six male youth elite discus throwers were tested, and data for main biomechanical factors (peak leg force, logarithm of trunk RT velocity, logarithm of shoulder linear velocity, release velocity, release angle, and release height) were recorded. The strongest relations with throw distance were found for release velocity (r = 0.95) and shoulder linear velocity (r = 0.90). The second and third major contributors were peak leg force (r = 0.87) and trunk rotation velocity (r = 0.82). This work also demonstrated the value of relative timing of body segments, with the proximal-to-distal sequence of timing critical in the transfer of energy. Both release angle and height of release had moderate relationships with outcome, but they played a smaller role than velocity-related variables. These data underscore the importance of training the shoulder velocity and the leg force to improve the performance in the discus throw. The study also proposes that superior release velocity and segmental coordination will result in improved performance. Further research with larger cohort sizes and prospective studies is needed with these relationships in order to enhance the training approach to young athletes.

Differences in brain activity during motor imagery of shotput between the whole- and part-training methods

2025-10-02T14:05:36+02:00

We compared the differences between the brain regions activated during motor imagery using the whole-training and part-training methods and focused on how brain-activation patterns vary depending on athletes’ individual characteristics. We included four throwing athletes with varying levels of competitive ability and shotput specialization, including elite athletes who attained upper ranks in the Japan Championships. The experimental tasks included motor imagery of a complete shotput attempt (whole method) and standing throw excluding the glide phase (part method). Functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure brain activity during these tasks. The results showed that individual variations in the brain regions were activated by both the whole and part methods. Regarding the inter-individual differences between the whole and part methods, in one high-level athlete, more brain regions, including the frontal lobe, were activated in the whole method compared to the part method. For athletes with lower competitive levels or specialization, no significant difference in brain activity was observed between the motor imagery of the whole and part methods. Thus, there are inter-individual differences in the brain regions that are activated during whole- and part-training methods and these vary depending on the athletes’ competitive ability and specialization.

How recovery postures influence performance during multiple sprint shuttles

2025-10-02T14:05:34+02:00

Recovery from exercise is arguably one of the most essential traits in training and competition to reduce fatigue and improve performance. Therefore, individuals should utilize the best short- and long-term recovery strategies to improve their physiological and psychological abilities. This study aimed to examine the effects of two different standing recovery postures, Hands on the Knees (HK) and Hands on the Head (HH), in between performing three 150-yard (150-YD) sprint shuttles. Heart rate recovery (HRR) was collected, along with shuttle completion times for comparison. There were no significant differences between trials 1, 2, 3, and average shuttle completion times between the HK and HH recovery methods. However, significant differences occurred in trials 1, 2, 3, and average recovery heart rates (p = .03 - .00), with small to moderate effect sizes. The data indicates that the HK posture may be more beneficial than the HH position due to its enhanced HRR capabilities during high-intensity sprinting. Future expansive research is needed to determine how recovery positions can impact higher volume high-intensity sprinting bouts from both recovery and performance perspectives in field settings.

Hydro electrolytic responses after a training session in some Cameroonian soccer players

2025-10-24T10:07:22+02:00

Playing soccer in hot climates can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte losses, resulting in higher levels of dehydration. The aim of this study was to quantify the fluid and electrolyte sweat losses among selected Cameroonian soccer players during a training session. Thirty soccer players aged 22 ± 5 from two teams (RENAIS and JACY) playing in the first division participated in a specific training session lasting about 1 hour 30 minutes. Before and after the session, all players were weighed. Sweat samples were collected to determine the sodium concentration. Ten participants completed a questionnaire providing information on their dietary and fluid intake, sweating habits, and salt intake routines. We found that JACY players had a significantly higher average sweat rate (1.73 ± 0.45L/h) compared to RENAIS soccer players (p = .038). A positive correlation (r = 0.47; p = .023) was observed between body mass index and sweat rate. A percentage of 33.3% of players presented the “salty sweater” profile. A dehydration level of 3.3% was found. 30% of players admitted to experiencing frequent cramping. The results indicate that Cameroonian soccer players experience significant fluid and sodium losses and are not adequately hydrated during training sessions.

Dynamics of training loads in soccer players during a preseason

2025-10-24T10:07:17+02:00

The Brazilian soccer season is structured throughout the year and is characterized by well-defined periods, such as the preseason and in-season periods. This study analyzes the dynamics of internal training load in professional soccer players during preseason. Twenty-three male professional soccer athletes participated and were monitored over 4 weeks of training. During this period, perceived recovery status (PRS) was assessed using the perceived recovery status scale, while internal training load was determined using the session rating of perceived exertion (session-RPE) method. During preseason, PRS ranged between 4 and 7 arbitrary units (AU), while intensity across weeks remained at moderate levels (4–6 AU). Mean PRS, session-RPE, and training volume differed across weeks (p < .05), with lower values in weeks 3 and 4. Internal training load decreased in week 4 compared to previous weeks (p < .05), while monotony and strain were highest in week 3 and differed from other training weeks (p < .05). Professional soccer players are exposed to moderate training intensities and recovery perception during preseason, with sessions mostly lasting less than 90 minutes. Regarding internal training load dynamics, monotony, and strain, athletes reported an increase over the first three weeks, followed by a reduction in the final week.

Effect of pelvic list training on dynamic exercise performances in basketball players

2025-10-24T10:07:15+02:00

Importance of pelvic list strength for physical fitness performances in basketball players has recently been suggested. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of pelvic list training on physical fitness performance in female collegiate basketball players. Eleven athletes completed a 4-week pelvic list training program, performed four times per week, consisting of eight exercises. Physical performance measures including pelvic list strength, 20-m sprint, lane agility test, pro-agility test, countermovement jump, running jump and standing long jump were assessed before and after the training period. Following the training, pro-agility test time improved from 5.07 ± 0.15 s to 4.96 ± 0.12 s (p = .097). Moreover, significant increases were observed in right and left pelvic list strength, as well as right pelvic list strength with a 2 kg load (p = .027, .033 and .003, respectively). Furthermore, improvements in right pelvic list strength were associated with reductions in pro-agility test time (r = −0.637, p = .065). These findings suggest that pelvic list training can enhance pelvic list strength and may contribute to improvment in pro-agility test performance in female collegiate basketball players. The results may be useful for developing effective strength training programs for female basketball players.

Investigation of factors contributing to agility in prepubertal soccer players

2025-10-24T10:07:14+02:00

Agility is critical for soccer performance; however, limited studies have explored its underlying physical predictors in prepubertal athletes during development. This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to agility in male prepubertal soccer players. We conducted a cross-sectional observational study on 52 male soccer players (chronological age: 10.6 ± 1.1 years; height: 141.4 ± 9.8 cm; body weight: 35.5 ± 9.8 kg). Reactive shuttle test (RST) was measured as an indicator of agility. Additional assessments included linear sprint, pro-agility test, squat jump, countermovement jump, rebound jump, and standing long jump. The RST also included measurement of reaction time at the initiation of movement. Furthermore, the change of direction (COD) deficit, calculated as the difference between the pro-agility test time and linear sprint time, was used to estimate the additional time required to change direction. Multiple regression analysis identified reaction time (β = 0.387), linear sprint time (β = 0.558), and COD deficit (β = 0.377) as significant predictors of RST time (p < .05), with an adjusted R² of .88. These findings suggest that, unlike in more physically developed athletes, reaction time, linear sprint speed, and COD deficit significantly contribute to agility in prepubertal soccer players.

Temporal associations between psychological climate and coach-rated team performance in sport

2025-10-02T14:05:39+02:00

This study provides the first empirical test of the Practice Environment Model’s (PEM) proposition that athletes’ psychological climate perceptions are temporally related to subsequent team functioning. We examined whether daily psychological climate appraisals, collected via high-frequency digital monitoring, were associated with coach-rated team performance, and whether they offered added value beyond traditional perceived wellness assessments. Using the MIMIR platform, daily data were collected from 48 NCAA Division II athletes across men’s soccer, women’s soccer, and women’s tennis teams. A time-lagged correlational design assessed whether psychological climate or perceived wellness ratings were linked to coach-rated performance on subsequent days. Results showed that psychological climate was significantly associated with coach ratings in several contexts, with the strongest and most sustained relationships observed in women’s tennis, extending up to a five-day lag. In contrast, perceived wellness ratings showed no consistent associations with performance across teams or terms. These findings offer initial support for the PEM’s climate–performance feedback loop and identify psychological climate as a potentially valuable indicator of team functioning in applied sport. Future research should examine potential moderators and mechanisms to guide targeted climate-based interventions.