School of Sport, Exercise and Health - Te Kura Hākinakina

Permanent link for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10292/1542

Research in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health covers sport and activity-related areas, as well as performance, nutrition, coaching and human potential. AUT is the home of New Zealand's top sport and fitness facility, AUT Millennium, and the Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ) is New Zealand’s number one sports research institute.

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Exploring the Effects of Combined Nordic and Reverse Nordic Hamstring Exercises on Physical Fitness in Prepubertal Male Soccer Players
(Frontiers Media SA, 2026-02-27) Sammoud, S; Negra, Y; Bouguezzi, R; Uthoff, A; Moran, J; Chaabene, H
Introduction: This study aimed to examine the effects of combined Nordic Hamstring and Reverse Nordic exercises on measures of physical fitness in prepubertal male soccer players. Methods: The eccentric training program lasted 8 weeks, with two sessions per week, each lasting approximately 20 min and performed immediately after the warm-up of regular soccer training. A total of 34 prepubertal male soccer players were recruited and randomly assigned at the group level to either the eccentric training group (n = 17; age = 12.44 ± 0.24 years, maturity offset = −1.27 ± 0.28) or the active control group (n = 17; age = 12.40 ± 0.22 years, maturity offset = −1.15 ± 0.35). Physical fitness was assessed through measures of linear sprint performance (10 & 20 m), change of direction (505 test), agility (Y-shaped agility test), and vertical (countermovement jump) and horizontal jump performance (standing long jump). Results and discussion: The findings showed moderate group-by-time interactions for all fitness measures [effect size (d) = 0.62–1.16]. Post hoc analyses revealed small-to-moderate improvements in the eccentric training group across all performance measures (d = 0.31–1.18), while no significant changes were observed in the control group for any fitness measure. In conclusion, our findings support the effectiveness, practicality, and safety (no injuries reported) of the eccentric training program for improving physical fitness in prepubertal male soccer players.
Benefit of Physical Activity Initiatives for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2026-03-09) Hinckson, Erica; Reis, Rodrigo; Romanello, Marina; Ding, Ding; Adelekan, Ibidun; Favarão Leão, Ana Luiza; Ballard, Ellis; Benmarhnia, Tarik; Hogg, Robert; Sallis, James F; Bauman, Adrian; Ramirez Varela, Andrea; Salvo, Deborah; Ekelund, Ulf; Pratt, Michael; Lee, I-Min; Kohl, Harold W; Hallal, Pedro C
Addressing today’s public health challenges requires learning from past successes while adapting to emerging threats. Here we focus on two pressing, interconnected issues: physical inactivity and climate change. We present the Physical Activity and Climate Change (PACC) model, a conceptual framework illustrating how well-designed physical activity initiatives can simultaneously contribute to climate mitigation, support adaptation, and promote health and equity. We provide insights on Indigenous knowledge and contemporary sport, re-imagined urban design, behavioural and equity synergies, and opportunities to develop co-benefit metrics, innovative governance models and cross-sector solutions. We emphasize the need for systems-based, co-designed approaches that prioritize environmental sustainability, health equity and cultural relevance while avoiding unintended consequences. Aligning physical activity and climate change agendas is more powerful than addressing them separately, offering greater combined benefits for population and environmental health. The PACC model offers a practical foundation for advancing integrated, equitable and sustainable solutions.
Between-Session Reliability of GPS Technology for Quantifying Linear and Curvilinear Base-Running Performance
(MDPI AG, 2026-02-25) Martínez-Rodríguez, José Antonio; Crotin, Ryan L; Neville, Jonathon; Barcelo, Roderick A; Cronin, John B
The purpose of this study was to quantify the between-session reliability of time, velocity, and distance measures over 54.7 m straight-line and home-to-second base sprints (curvilinear), using global positioning satellite (GPS) technology. Twelve trained male high school baseball position players attended four sessions: one familiarization session and three identical testing sessions, separated by at least two days, each consisting of two linear and two curvilinear trials. There was no statistically significant evidence (p < 0.05) of systematic change in any of the variables between sessions, with the majority of the mean percent changes ranging from −2.7 to 2.5%, and only four between-session comparisons greater than 2% (−6.2 to 3.4%). In terms of absolute consistency, no measure exceeded a coefficient of variation (CV) of 10%, with the majority (93%) of the CVs under 5%. With regard to relative consistency, 66% of the measures had intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) greater than 0.74, ranging from 0.76 to 0.98. Comparison of smallest worthwhile change (SWC) values with CV-derived typical error indicated that several key time- and speed-based metrics were sensitive to meaningful performance changes, with error estimates that were comparable to or smaller than SWC. In contrast, event-timed typical errors (e.g., time to peak speed) were substantially greater than the SWC, indicating limited sensitivity for detecting small performance changes. The non-significant changes in the mean, low CVs, and high ICCs, for the most part, over repeated testing occasions, indicate acceptable between-session reliability for many of the procedures and GPS-derived variables examined in this study. Practitioners should prioritize linear time at 41.1 m and 54.7 m and velocity at 27.4 m and 41.1 m for return-to-play and short-term performance tracking. For curvilinear running, peak speed before first base, peak speed before second base and after first base, and speed at 41.1 m are the most suitable monitoring metrics based on the results. Specifically, speed at 41.1 m should be considered for return-to-play and short-term performance tracking, while peak speed before first base and peak speed before second base and after first base may be used cautiously when larger performance changes are expected.
Artificial Intelligence Applications for Assessing Ultra-Processed Food Consumption: A Scoping Review
(Cambridge University Press (CUP), 2025-12-22) Campbell, JL; Schofield, G; Tiedt, HR; Zinn, C
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), defined using frameworks such as NOVA, are increasingly linked to adverse health outcomes, driving interest in ways to identify and monitor their consumption. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers potential, yet it’s application in classifying UPFs remains underexamined. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review mapping how AI has been used, focusing on techniques, input data, classification frameworks, accuracy, and application. Studies were eligible if peer-reviewed, published in English (2015–2025), and they applied AI approaches to assess or classify UPFs using recognised or study-specific frameworks. A systematic search in May 2025 across PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and CINAHL identified 954 unique records with eight ultimately meeting the inclusion criteria; one additional study was added in October following an updated search after peer review. Records were independently screened and extracted by two reviewers. Extracted data covered AI methods, input types, frameworks, outputs, validation, and context. Studies used diverse techniques, including random forest classifiers, large language models, and rule-based systems, applied across various contexts. Four studies explored practical settings: two assessed consumption or purchasing behaviours, and two developed substitution tools for healthier options. All relied on NOVA or modified versions to categorise processing. Several studies reported predictive accuracy, with F1 scores from 0.86 to 0.98, while another showed alignment between clusters and NOVA categories. Findings highlight the potential of AI tools to improve dietary monitoring and the need for further development of real-time methods and validation to support public health.
Sedentary Time is Independently Related to Adipose Tissue Insulin Resistance in Adults With or at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
(Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2023-04-24) Engin, Buket; Willis, Scott A; Malaikah, Sundus; Sargeant, Jack A; Biddle, Gregory JH; Razieh, Cameron; Argyridou, Stavroula; Edwardson, Charlotte L; Jelleyman, Charlotte; Stensel, David J; Henson, Joseph; Rowlands, Alex V; Davies, Melanie J; Yates, Thomas; King, James A
INTRODUCTION: This cross-sectional study examined associations of device-measured sedentary time and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) with adipose tissue insulin resistance in people with or at high-risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). METHODS: Data were combined from six previous experimental studies (within our group) involving patients with T2DM or primary risk factors (median (IQR) age 66.2 (66.0 - 70.8) years, body mass index (BMI) 31.1 (28.0 - 34.4) kg.m-2, 62% male, n = 179). Adipose tissue insulin resistance was calculated as the product of fasted circulating insulin and non-esterified fatty acids (ADIPO-IR), while sedentary time and MVPA were determined from wrist-worn accelerometery. Generalised linear models examined associations of sedentary time and MVPA with ADIPO-IR with interaction terms added to explore the moderating influence of ethnicity (white European vs. south Asian), BMI, age, and sex. RESULTS: In finally-adjusted models, sedentary time was positively associated with ADIPO-IR, with every 30-min of sedentary time associated with a 1.80 (95% CI: 0.51 to 3.06; P = 0.006) unit higher ADIPO-IR. This relationship strengthened as BMI increased (β = 3.48 [95%CI = 1.50 to 5.46], P = 0.005 in the upper BMI tertile [≥ 33.2 kg.m-2]). MVPA was unrelated to ADIPO-IR. These results were consistent in sensitivity analyses that excluded participants taking statins and/or metformin (n = 126) and when separated into the participants with T2DM (n = 32) and those at-high-risk (n = 147). CONCLUSIONS: Sedentary time is positively related to adipose tissue insulin sensitivity in people with or at high-risk of T2DM. This relationship strengthens as BMI increases and may help explain established relationships between greater sedentary time, ectopic lipid, and hyperglycaemia.
Plasma Heat Shock Protein-70 Response to Acute Prolonged Exercise: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Meta-regression
(American Physiological Society, 2026-01-06) Charoensap, Thanchanok; Kilding, Andrew E; Barrett, Andrew MS; Cross, Matt R; Stewart, Tom; Maunder, Ed
Extracellular heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) acts as a damage-associated molecular pattern, or ‘danger signal’ for the immune system. Acute prolonged exercise evokes various physiological stresses that can stimulate the release of extracellular HSP70. However, exercise-induced extracellular HSP70 responses are inconsistent in human studies. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis and meta-regression was to systematically evaluate the effect of exercise on plasma HSP70 expression, and to determine the exercise-associated factors contributing to plasma HSP70 response. Data were extracted from 26 experimental trials from thirteen studies, including 154 participants, in which plasma HSP70 was measured before and after prolonged, continuous running or cycling exercise at a fixed intensity relative to V̇O2max. Meta-analysis was performed to determine the raw mean difference (MD) between post- and pre-exercise HSP70 concentration. Meta-regression was performed to establish the moderating effects of V̇O2max, exercise intensity, duration, modality, environmental temperature, humidity, and hypoxia on the plasma HSP70 response. There was a significant effect of exercise on plasma HSP70 concentration (MD = 0.73 ng.mL−1, 95% CI [0.13, 1.34], p = 0.02). Meta-regression explained ~57.1% of variation in exercise-induced change in plasma HSP70 concentration (marginal R2 = 0.571). The V̇O2max (β = 0.51, 95% CI [0.03, 1.00]), exercise duration (β = 0.43, 95% CI [0.21, 0.65]), intensity (β = 0.40, 95% CI [0.08, 0.73]), and environmental temperature (β = 0.27, 95% CI [0.10, 0.43]) explained variation in the plasma HSP70 response. These data contribute to our understanding of the factors that modulate the plasma HSP70 response to acute prolonged exercise.
Skateboarding's Olympic Debut: A Comparative Analysis Describing the Men's and Women's Street Competition
(SAGE Publications, 2026-02-20) Diewald, Shelley N; Mancini, Nick; Noth, Niklas; Neville, Jonathon; Cronin, John B; Cross, Matt R
The aim of this study was to describe aspects of performance in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic street skateboarding competition and compare the men's (M) and women's (W) divisions. Trick attempts (TA = 1118) were extracted from broadcast footage of the semi-finals and finals using notational analysis. Descriptive analyses were adopted to characterise performance, with robust linear mixed-effects models comparing attempt scores (run [RUN] and best-trick [BT]) between divisions. Men's RUN (β = 1.71 [1.43, 1.99]) and BT (β = 1.85 [1.55, 2.15]) scores were higher and more variable than the women. Overall, there was more trick variety during BTs, but less obstacle variability compared to RUNs. Skaters bailed a greater proportion of BT TAs (54.6%) than RUN TAs (14.3%). Men demonstrated greater variety than women by diversifying take-off (M = 28.2% vs. W = 3.3% non-regular) and landing (M = 25.7% vs. W = 6.2% non-regular) stances, attempting more unique tricks (M = 122 vs. W = 74), and using larger feature obstacles (M = 40.7% vs. W = 33.9% of TAs). Alternatively, women demonstrated wider course use during BTs (M = 15% vs. W = 32.1% of all obstacles), corresponding to less feature obstacle use; perhaps indicating a barrier to engagement due to developing physical qualities. Future research should explore men's and women's divisions respectively to understand key factors for success.
Advancing Quality Experiences in Sport Participation for People with Limb Deficiency
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025-10-20) Baudinet, Olivia; Ferkins, Lesley; Rowe, Katie; Ting, Chien Ju
Man-Marking, Pressure on the Ball, and Offside and Their Effect on Physiological, Physical, Technical and Tactical Parameters During Small-Sided Games
(Frontiers Media SA, 2026-01-29) Rumpf, Michael C; Jäger, Johannes; Uthoff, Aaron; Lochmann, Matthias
Man-marking (MM), and pressure on the ball are task constraints frequently manipulated by coaches during small-sided games (SSG). Man marking seemed to increase the physiological load of SSG measured through heart rate measures [average and percentage heart rate (HR), time spent >80% maximum HR] and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Additionally, MM increased the physical parameters in soccer players. Total distance covered, as well as the relative distance and other related variables with higher intensity such as distance in velocity bands at high-intensity >13 km/h as well as sprinting increased in comparison to non-MM. Players also experienced greater work rate, as reported through the work-to-rest ratio. Pressure on the ball increased players’ physiological intensity (e.g., percentage of time spent in 90%–100% HR max) and physical load (e.g., number and distance of high-speed runs). Tactical changes through pressure on the ball was expressed as higher number of ball recovery, lower decision making and execution with a lower spatial exploration index. Utilizing offside during SSG did not change the physiological load of players whilst decreasing total distance and low(er) speed running such 7–16 km/h). Offside affected players depth positioning, consequently the length-per-width ratio and players’ spatial exploration. As a result, coaches can utilize MM and pressure on the ball to increase intensity of SSG. Offside, however, diminishes physicality of games whilst restricting tactical behaviour of players.
Enriching Work-integrated Learning: Conceptions of Integrating Indigenous Reflective Practices
(Informa UK Limited, 2025-07-30) Lucas, P; Hains-Wesson, R
In an increasingly multicultural and globally connected world, educators are called to critically reflect on how their own cultural lenses shape approaches to student learning, particularly in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). This conceptual paper explores how reflective practice in WIL can be deepened by engaging with diverse ways of knowing, such as First Nations perspectives. While Western models of reflection remain dominant, they may not fully capture the lived experiences or worldviews of all learners. By identifying the limitations of conventional reflective frameworks and engaging with alternative epistemologies through literature and informal discussions with Indigenous curriculum experts, the authors propose a more inclusive lens for understanding reflection in WIL. These reflective dialogues helped shape a model encouraging more culturally responsive and meaningful student engagement with work focused learning. The paper concludes with practical recommendations for educators seeking to respectfully integrate Indigenous ways of knowing into WIL pedagogy, contributing to more holistic and equitable learning experiences.
The Training Intensity Distribution of Marathon Runners Across Performance Levels
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2024-12-01) Muniz-Pumares, Daniel; Hunter, Ben; Meyler, Samuel; Maunder, Ed; Smyth, Barry
Background: The training characteristics and training intensity distribution (TID) of elite athletes have been extensively studied, but a comprehensive analysis of the TID across runners from different performance levels is lacking. Methods: Training sessions from the 16 weeks preceding 151,813 marathons completed by 119,452 runners were analysed. The TID was quantified using a three-zone approach (Z1, Z2 and Z3), where critical speed defined the boundary between Z2 and Z3, and the transition between Z1 and Z2 was assumed to occur at 82.3% of critical speed. Training characteristics and TID were reported based on marathon finish time. Results: Training volume across all runners was 45.1 ± 26.4 km·week⁻¹, but the fastest runners within the dataset (marathon time 120–150 min) accumulated > three times more volume than slower runners. The amount of training time completed in Z2 and Z3 running remained relatively stable across performance levels, but the proportion of Z1 was higher in progressively faster groups. The most common TID approach was pyramidal, adopted by > 80% of runners with the fastest marathon times. There were strong, negative correlations (p < 0.01, R² ≥ 0.90) between marathon time and markers of training volume, and the proportion of training volume completed in Z1. However, the proportions of training completed in Z2 and Z3 were correlated (p < 0.01, R² ≥ 0.85) with slower marathon times. Conclusion: The fastest runners in this dataset featured large training volumes, achieved primarily by increasing training volume in Z1. Marathon runners adopted a pyramidal TID approach, and the prevalence of pyramidal TID increased in the fastest runners.
Maturation Selection Bias and Injury in a Secondary School Sports Academy
(New Zealand Federation of Sports Medicine, 2025-12-22) Cooper, Tom; Whatman, Chris
The aim of this study was to examine maturation selection bias and injury in a secondary school sports academy. Male students (n=98) from a Boys High School had their anthropometric measurements taken (standing height and weight). Estimated percent of predicted adult height (%PAH) was derived using the Khamis-Roche method. Percent of PAH was used to estimate maturity status and timing. Participants also completed an injury history survey designed to record injuries experienced over the previous three months. Most participants were early maturers (65%, n=64), suggesting a bias towards the selection of more mature players. Late maturers accounted for only 1% (n=1) of players selected. Injury history identified that 60% (n=52) of participants had been injured in the three months prior to data collection but there was no association with maturity status. Increased awareness of the potential for maturity-based selection bias in secondary school team sports is needed.
Relationship Between Online Coaching Characteristics, Lifter Satisfaction, and Performance in Powerlifters
(Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2025-04-23) Clarke, Jason; Spence, Alyssa-Joy; Helms, Eric; Cross, Matthew
This study aimed to understand the length, mode, and frequency of online powerlifting (PL) coaching delivery and their relationship with lifter satisfaction (LS) and PL performance. Powerlifters (n = 113) completed a self-reported online survey on their online PL coaching experience. Participants reported a mean PL total of 621 ± 111 kg for men (n = 59) and 382 ± 77 kg for women (n = 54). Coaching relationships, on average, were 21.75 ± 14.5 months long, and mean increases in PL total were 14.6 ± 15.5% (14.01 ± 12.43% and 15.32 ± 18.52% for men and women, respectively). When asked how satisfied lifters were with their coaching experience on a scale of 1–5 (1 = extremely dissatisfied, 5 = extremely satisfied), most lifters reported either 4 (n = 63) or 5 (n = 42). Using regression analysis, no significant relationship between mode or frequency of communication and LS or change in PL total was observed. There was a positive relationship between longer coach-lifter relationships and greater increases in PL total (p < 0.001). Higher coach education was associated with increases in PL total (p = 0.024), although its relationship with satisfaction was inconsistent (positive for lower values and negative for higher, p < 0.005). Together, these results suggest a temporal component to the effectiveness of powerlifting coaching and a potentially positive association between a degree of formal education and key outcomes. Alongside these analyses, these data help create an understanding of current online PL coaching practices.
Exploring Exercise Specificity in Powerlifting: A Survey of Powerlifters' Training Practices and Demographic Influences
(Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2025-10-31) Amdi, Christian H; Spence, Alyssa-Joy; Helms, Eric R; McGuigan, Michael R
This study aimed to examine powerlifters' training practices related to exercise specificity. A total of 548 powerlifters responded to an anonymous online survey, with 401 completing all questions. On average, lifters trained 4.25 times per week and performed the competition-style squat, bench press, and deadlift 1.64, 2.48, and 1.37 times per week, respectively-typically using 1-7 repetitions at ratings of perceived exertion (RPEs) of 6-10. Almost all lifters (>97.5%) incorporated varied practice, including barbell variations (squat: 1.50×, bench press: 2.14×, deadlift: 1.26×) and accessory exercises (squat: 1.73×, bench press: 2.46×, deadlift: 1.72× per week). These were generally performed with 4-7 repetitions at RPE 6-8.5 for variations, and ≥8 repetitions at RPE 6-10 for accessories. The most common barbell variations involved slower eccentric phases, added or prolonged pauses in the bottom position, among others. Most lifters modified how they programmed (i.e., volume, frequency, relative-load, or RPEs) the competition lifts (88.2%), barbell variations (71.7%), and accessory exercises (62.3%) as competition approached, whereas 35.1-45.7% changed exercise selection depending on competition proximity. However, 49.0-58.7% maintained consistent exercise selection throughout competition periods. These programming decisions were influenced by athlete characteristics such as gender, use of supportive equipment, age, weight class, relative strength, and training status. Collectively, these findings indicate that varied practice is common in powerlifting.
Does Specialisation Impact Sprint and Change of Direction Performance in Youth Football Players?
(International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association, 2026-01-23) Zoellner, Anja; Read, Paul; Whatman, Chris; Sheerin, Kelly
Purpose: Specialisation in youth football is common, often with the goal of heightened sporting success later in life. The purpose of this study was to investigate if sprint and change of direction (COD) performance differs between specialised and diversified youth football players. Methods: Twenty male football players (age: 15.9 ±1.1 years), grouped as specialised (n=11) or diversified (n=9), were compared in 30m sprint and 5-0-5 COD tasks. In the sprint, 10m and 30m completion time and force-velocity profiles were examined. COD performance was assessed using total time, COD deficit, and 2-dimensional video to determine if participants used backward trunk inclination and heel strike during their penultimate foot contact. Linear mixed models and Chi-square analyses were used to compare groups with significance set at p ≤0.05. Results: Sprint and COD performance did not differ between groups (p >0.05). Significantly greater COD asymmetries were seen in the specialised group (9%) compared to the diversified group (4%). While not significantly different, effect sizes suggest potential differences in task completion strategy were observed based on force-velocity profiles during sprints. Conclusions: These results suggest a specialised pathway does not lead to improved performance in sprint or COD in youth football players, but it may lead to differences in the strategy used to perform these tasks.
Beyond the Frontline: Exploring Indirect Trauma and Organisational Stress in Emergency Communication Centre Employees
(New Zealand Psychological Society Inc., 2026-01-31) Campbell, Jessica L; Mackay, Lisa; Darby, Josh; Scholfield, Graant
Emergency communication centre employees are indirectly exposed to potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTEs), yet research on their mental health is limited. This national census survey (73.4% response rate, n=58) examines symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (PHQ-9), Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and PTSD (SPRINT) among Fire and Emergency New Zealand personnel. It also explores PPTE exposure, organisational stressors, employee experiences, and coping mechanisms (AUDIT-C, emotional numbing scale) using mixed methods. Results show 64% screened positive for at least one mental disorder, with high rates of emotional numbing (31%) and hazardous alcohol use (51%). Qualitative analysis, including interviews and open-text survey responses, highlights stressors such as inadequate staffing, excessive workload, and lack of support. As the first dedicated study on this group in New Zealand, findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions.
Measuring Experienced Wellbeing: Two Methods for Smartphone-based Ecological Momentary Assessment
(International Journal of Wellbeing, 2026-01-12) Smith, Conal; Cross, Matt; Duncan, Scott; Grimes, Arthur; Howden-Chapman, Philippa; Le Gros, Lydia; Logan, Amber; MacKay, Lisa; McPhee, Julia; Murphy, Kate; Narayanan, Anantha; Penny, Guy; Pierse, Nevil; Stewart, Tom
Since 2010 the widespread availability of smartphones has lowered barriers to collecting experienced wellbeing (EWB) data through ecological momentary assessment (EMA). This paper reports on two New Zealand studies that explore the impact of social context, activity, and the diurnal cycle on the EWB of social housing tenants. The two studies adopt different approaches to implementing EMA via a smartphone. The first uses a smartphone app to collect information on EWB, while the second adopts an instant messaging approach. Despite differences in the EMA approach used and sample characteristics, both studies produce very similar results. Social contact is associated with higher experienced wellbeing, as is travelling when compared to other activities. Both studies also effectively replicate findings from the wider literature on the relationship between the diurnal cycle and experienced happiness. Because the studies both took place in New Zealand in the second half of 2023 and focus on similar target populations, a comparison between them has useful lessons for the impact of the different approaches to EMA on data collection. We find that the instant messaging approach achieved better compliance with the EMA protocol, suggesting that the familiarity of instant messaging may be beneficial for data quality for some respondents. However, the instant messaging approach requires more researcher time per interview and cannot collect GPS information on the respondent’s location, sacrificing a major strength of EMA measures.
Effects of Repeated Forward Versus Repeated Backward Sprint Training on Physical Fitness Measures in Youth Male Basketball Players
(MDPI AG, 2026-01-04) Arbi, Ghofrane; Negra, Yassine; Uthoff, Aaron; Sammoud, Senda; Müller, Patrick; Chaabene, Helmi; Hachana, Younes
This study aimed to examine the effects of eight weeks of repeated backward sprint training (RBST) versus repeated forward sprint training (RFST) on physical fitness measures. Twenty-three postpubertal male basketball players (mean age = 15 years) were randomly assigned to either an RBST group (n = 12) or an RFST group (n = 11). Pre- and post-intervention assessments measured 5-, 10-, and 20 m sprint performance, Y-agility, 505 change of direction (CoD) speed, countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump (SLJ), and RSA (RSA best time [RSAbest] and RSA mean time [RSAmean]). The RBST group significantly improved in all measures (p < 0.05; 6.11 to 19.25%; Effect size [ES] = 0.32 to 1.05) except RSAbest. The RFST group significantly improved 10 m sprint, SLJ, RSAbest, and RSAmean (p < 0.05; 6.25 to 17.84%; ES = 0.05 to 0.80). Between-group analysis revealed that RBST outperformed RFST in Y-agility and SLJ (p < 0.05; ES = −1.03 and 0.16, respectively). RBST was more effective for improving agility and lower-body power, while RFST provided a slight advantage in peak RSA. These findings suggest that incorporating task-specific sprint training may optimize physical performance in male youth basketball players.
Biological Sex Differences in Fatigue in Resistance-trained Individuals: A Scoping Review
(Georg Thieme Verlag KG, 2025-05-15) Amdi, Christian; Fyfe, J; Yoon, SangHoon; Nuckols, G; Refalo, M
Females may experience less neuromuscular fatigue and improved recovery following resistance training than males; however, it is unclear whether this applies to resistance-trained individuals. A systematic scoping review was performed to map the evidence on sex differences in fatigue during and following resistance training in trained participants. PubMed, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus were searched following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The protocol was prospectively registered. Of the 4,020 identified articles, 34 were included. These studies assessed sex differences in fatigue using various measures during single and multiple resistance training sets, performance relative to the baseline at various time points (0-5 min, 1-6 h, 24 h, and 48-96 h after resistance training), and metabolic responses. Substantial heterogeneity in study design and results were observed. Together, most studies found minor-to-no sex differences in neuromuscular fatigue, but some evidence of greater fatigability in males during or immediately following resistance training were found when (1) more complex free-weight exercises were performed with moderate loads, (2) rest periods were shorter, and (3) males were substantially stronger than females in relative terms, among others. Future investigations should explore the impact of training variables and habitual training on fatigue in males and females of comparable relative strength and technical proficiency.
Head Impact Exposure in Junior and Adult Australian Football Players
(Wiley, 2018-04-01) Hecimovich, Mark; King, Doug; Dempsey, Alasdair; Murphy, Myles
This study measured and compared the frequency, magnitude, and distribution of head impacts sustained by junior and adult Australian football players, respectively, and between player positions over a season of games. Twelve junior and twelve adult players were tracked using a skin-mounted impact sensor. Head impact exposure, including frequency, magnitude, and location of impacts, was quantified using previously established methods. Over the collection period, there were no significant differences in the impact frequency between junior and adult players. However, there was a significant increase in the frequency of head impacts for midfielders in both grades once we accounted for player position. A comparable amount of head impacts in both junior and adult players has implications for Australian football regarding player safety and medical coverage as younger players sustained similar impact levels as adult players. The other implication of a higher impact profile within midfielders is that, by targeting education and prevention strategies, a decrease in the incidence of sports-related concussion may result.

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