Step count for 7th and 8th grade students in structured and unstructured physical education classes

The aim of the study was to analyze step counts of middle school students in structured and unstructured physical education classes (PE) according to age, gender, and school type. Data were collected on a sample of 74 students, 40 7th and 34 8th grade students recruited from private and public middle schools. Omron HJ-112 pedometers were used in this study to obtain step counts. There were statistically significant differences between boys and girls in the step counts in both structured and unstructured PE. A significant difference was observed between school types in step counts during structured PE in both genders, while no significant difference was found for unstructured PE. Significant difference was found between step counts of only boys of different grades in unstructured PE. Boys made more steps than girls both in structured and unstructured PE. In structured PE, 7th grade boys reached a higher number of steps than 8th grade boys.

Effect of the Leisure Activities on the Level of Psychological stress among the elderly during the Coronavirus Outbreak

Background: It is well known that advancing age is accompanied by many negative feelings due to the feeling of loneliness and psychological emptiness, which leads to the individual feeling that society does not need him due to his weak physical abilities and thus this, will negatively affect healthy aging. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the effect of the leisure activities on the psychological stress among the elderly during Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak. Design: To achieve this, we used the quasi-experimental approach on a sample consisting of 54, with the average age of (65.4±2.3) years. Divided into two groups 27 as a control group and 27 as the experimental group and this sample was purposively selected. Because of the home quarantine and to reduce face-to-face interaction, we used a questionnaire to measure the psychological stress level by using the Google form. The study tool consisted of 7 paragraphs associated with depression and 6 paragraphs associated with anxiety, finally 6 paragraphs associated with aggression. Before applying the experiment, the psychological stress was measured among the study sample, and then the leisure activities program was sent to the experimental group by the WhatsApp application. The researchers used means, standard deviations, paired and independent sample t-test by using SPSS version 24 with a confidence level of 95% (p<0.05). Results: The results of the study have shown that the level of the psychological stress among both groups came with a high average in the pre-measurement, as well as the anxiety domain that were the most affected in a positive way through leisure activities practicing. Additionally, there were statistically significant differences between the pre and post measurement among experiment group and favor of the post measurement. Conclusion: the leisure activities practicing among the elderly have contributed positively to reducing the level of psychological stress represented by depression, anxiety.

Ethical values in jujutsu of Japanese origin

Background. The broad humanistic and socio-cultural theoretical perspectives applied to this research effort provides a foundation for the Humanistic Theory of Martial Arts and the anthropological Focus on martial arts used in this paper. Hence, conceptual language has been adopted for this investigation. The aim is to assess and identify the ethical values and pro-social perspectives accentuated by high ranking masters in the martial art of jujutsu. Specifically, this paper seeks to answer the question of which values are most often prioritized or stressed? Method. The discussion involves the analysis of a broad survey of scientific and expert literature. Quoted and compared are the opinions and perspectives of 11 Grand Masters of jujutsu, holders of the highest titles and master's degrees (i.e, 9-10 dan), are analyzed and presented as evidence. Results. Classical schools and their representatives uniformly accentuate the value of tradition. On the other hand, there is a trend toward modernization both in the content of teaching and in technical ideas. This modernization began with Jigoro Kano, whose followers are today seen as reformers. All present Grand Masters pay attention to the ethical values and educational aspects of martial arts, particularly with regard to jujutsu. Conclusions. Ethics in jujutsu extends, as a kind of continuum between the traditionalist Butoku (i.e, knightly virtues resulting from Bushido) and the axiology of Christian Europe. A general consensus exists as to its educational and pro-social values. Aspects may also include self-control, self-discipline, perseverance, and responsibility, which are shaped by long-term educational processes.

Diversity of scoring, ingenuity of striking, art of flying — conceptual and systematical identification of soccer scoring techniques

The terms of soccer scoring techniques (SSTs) used in practice and research have been remaining confusing; even dramatic, we still do not know how many SSTs available for the game. This scenario hinders not only the scientific studies on some unique SSTs but also the development of novel coaching methods for learning these SSTs. The current paper aims to bridge the gap by establishing a SST terminology system. The system is built based on goal repeatability, selected anatomical & biomechanical parameters, and analyses of 579 attractive goals from international professional tournaments. The results have revealed that there are 43 SSTs existed in current soccer practice. Some SSTs can be identified by preliminary parameters (i.e. anatomical parameters, the ball vertical position at the shot and the hit-point on the ball), but most of them need additional biomechanical examination on the movement control in frontal & transverse planes, jumping control, and trunk orientation at shots in order to identify uniquely. Further, the new SST terminology has disclosed that soccer attractiveness is linked to the diversity, ingenuity and artistry of shots. The most attractive type of scoring awaited by millions of spectators is aerial shots. Lastly, the most important contribution of the new SST terminology system is to help researchers and practitioners launch target-orientated studies that would provide a practical and convincing scientific coach-method, clear definitions, and means to reevaluate and improve SSTs in practice.

Effects of creatine hydrochloride supplementation on physical performance and hormonal changes in soldiers

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 2 weeks of creatine hydrochloride (CrHCl) supplementation on physical performance and hormonal changes in army soldiers. Materials: Eighteen male army soldiers were randomly assigned in a double-blind fashion to either a CrHCl (n=9) or placebo (Pl) (n=9) groups. CrHCl group costumed 3g of creatine per day, whereas Pl group was given dextrose. Before and after supplementation period, the subjects performed a battery of performance tests including one repletion maximum (1RM) of bench press and back squat, vertical jump (VJ) and Wingate anaerobic test. In addition, blood samples were obtained to determine changes in testosterone and cortisol concentrations per and post supplementation. Results: There were significant increases in VJ, peak and mean power, and 1RM back squat test following the 2 weeks of CrHCl supplementation (p < 0.05) without any significant change for the Pl group. In addition significant changes were observed in testosterone and cortisol concentrations from before to after supplementation in CrHCl group (p < 0.05) and compared with Pl group (p=0.001). Conclusions: In conclusion, the present study indicates that CrHCl supplementation can improve VJ, power performance, 1RM back squat and hormonal changes in army soldiers.

Contribution of physical education classes to daily physical activity levels of adolescents

Introduction: Although practicing physical activity according to recommendations has health benefits, many studies have reported that the level of participation is lower than recommended. Methods: In this behavioural epidemiological study, we used a correlational design to determine the contribution made by physical education (PE) classes to daily physical activity in a sample of 694 Spanish adolescents. Physical activity levels were determined using the Four by One-Day Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results: 65.1% of adolescents comply with the recommendations on PE school days, compared to 36.6% who do so on the days with no PE class. Moreover, on PE school days, they obtain significantly higher physical activity level scores compared to days with no PE class. Conclusion: The study, therefore, shows the fundamental role of PE in increasing daily physical activity levels. Proposals to improve physical activity levels in these adolescents should be put forward, with educational centres being one of the best settings to achieve this goal.

Effect of power on agility, linear speed and change of direction deficit in female soccer players

Introduction: The aim of the study was to examine relationships between power of the lower limb and agility, speed, and change of direction (COD) deficit in professional female soccer players. Material and methods: Thirty-three elite Polish Extraliga league soccer players (aged 22 ±5 years; body height 166 ± 4 cm; body weight 58 ± 8 kg) performed the following fitness tests: lower limb muscle power (Leg Press, Half Squat, Counter Movement Jump), straight linear speed (SLS 20 m), and COD speed ( Zig-Zag test, COD deficit). Using the median value as a reference, the players were subdivided into two groups (n=17; n=16) according to their LP, HS 60% 1RM, CMJ (High values below median = stronger group and Low = weaker group ). Results: The COD deficit was calculated as the difference between the 20m speed and the Zig-Zag test. The stronger group was better than the weaker group in SLS 20m (p<0.05; ES=1.23; 0.83; 0.93), but in the Zig-Zag agility test, the difference in the results was not statistically significant (p>0.05; ES=0.48; 0.34; 0.34) and this affected the COD deficit, which was higher (p<0.05; ES=0.9; 0.73; 0.72). The most important finding was that the stronger group had a higher COD deficit and its improvement (reduction) occurs only if the results of the agility test are improved (through agility training) [Ydeficit All groups=0.10+0.87*20m - 0.83* Zig-Zag]. Increasing power (HS, LP) lead to the improvement in SLS p<0.05, not to COD abilities. Conclusion: This can be useful for coaches during agility training and to improve COD deficit in soccer players and women in general.

The Effect of Lumbar Erector Spinae Muscle Endurance Exercise on Perceived Low-back Pain in Older Adults

This study investigates changes in lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscle endurance, perceived low-back pain (LBP), and perceived exercise fatigue in older adults, and analyzes the trends of these changes during a 5-week lumbar exercise. Sixteen older adults with LBP were equally and randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group with incline-standing and the control group with the level-standing positions. They were separately treated with lumbar exercise tasks and 10 seconds of muscle endurance tests using surface electromyography (sEMG). There was a trend of changes in both groups. The exercise tasks led to increase LES muscle endurance in the experimental group (53.7%) and the control group (45.4%) and decrease perceived LBP score significantly with the incline-standing position. There was no significant difference between the two groups in perceived exercise fatigue (p>0.05). Trunk flexion and extension with an incline-standing position can be an effective method to increase LES muscle endurance and reduce LBP in older adults.

Efficacy of dynamic Swiss ball training in improving the core stability of collegiate athletes

Introduction: The training of core muscles is key in sports training to improve performance and reduce the risk of injuries. However the most effective method to improve core musculature is still controversial. Therefore the objective of this study was aimed at investigating the effectiveness of dynamic Swiss ball training in reinforcing the core stability of collegiate athletes. Materials and methods: This two-group, two-factor research involved 67, 18- to 28-year-old collegiate athletes (18 females, 49 males) who were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group was provided dynamic Swiss ball training, whereas the control group was instructed to perform floor exercises. The groups underwent training for six weeks (three days per week). Four core stability tests (the Biering-Sorenson trunk extension, Side Bridge, prone bridge, and double leg lowering tests) were administrated pre- and post-training. Results: The mean scores of the participants in the core stability tests significantly improved after six weeks of training (p<0.05), but the between-group comparisons revealed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in terms of enhancement in core stability (p<0.05). Conclusion: The relatively high improvement in core stability parameters after Swiss ball training suggested that these exercises are favorable alternatives to traditional floor exercises in strengthening the core muscles. The findings are expected to help athletes, coaches, trainers, and other strength and conditioning specialists involved in athletic training decide on appropriate training methods.

Comparison of physical activity of children in a state kindergarten and a forest kindergarten in the Czech Republic

Introduction: This study compares physical activity of children in a state kindergarten and a forest kindergarten, particularly the number of steps taken, which can indicate the quantity of physical activity. The objective is to monitor the number of steps taken by children in selected institutions and to conduct an analysis in relation to the structure of the daily programme and movement regimen of these institutions contributing thus to the discussion concerning physical literacy formation among preschool children. Methods: The study is of a descriptive non-intervention character using mechanical pedometers. The sample consists of 73 children (36 in the state kindergarten, 37 in the forest kindergarten). The data are processed using a nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and Cohen's d. Results: At the significance level of 0.05 it was discovered that children from the forest kindergarten take significantly more steps in the observed period than children from the state kindergarten. The Z-score is -4.357 and p < 0.001. Substantive significance for the level of physical activity measured by the number of steps is high. Cohen's d = (532057–354714)/133355.005729 = 1.33. Conclusion: Physical literacy is influenced by both the quality of physical activity and the quantity, which was larger in the forest kindergarten. This may be related to the amount of spontaneous physical activity and the frequency and length of trips. However, controlled physical activities in the state kindergarten, especially morning exercise, can improve the quality and increase physical literacy as well. There is a need for a competent approach of teachers, sensitive inclusion of physical activities in the daily programme with emphasis on internal motivation, and awareness of benefits and drawback of both spontaneous physical activity and controlled activities represented by regular morning exercise.