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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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.
Assessment of Somatosensory and Motor Processing Time in Retired Athletes with a History of Repeated Head Trauma
(MDPI AG, 2022-12-02) Pearce, AJ; King, Doug; Kidgell, DJ; Frazer, AK; Tommerdahl, M; Suter, CM
Measurement of the adverse outcomes of repeated head trauma in athletes is often achieved using tests where the comparator is ‘accuracy’. While it is expected that ex-athletes would perform worse than controls, previous studies have shown inconsistent results. Here we have attempted to address these inconsistencies from a different perspective by quantifying not only accuracy, but also motor response times. Age-matched control subjects who have never experienced head trauma (n = 20; 41.8 ± 14.4 years) where compared to two cohorts of retired contact sport athletes with a history of head trauma/concussions; one with self-reported concerns (n = 36; 45.4 ± 12.6 years), and another with no ongoing concerns (n = 19; 43.1 ± 13.5 years). Participants performed cognitive (Cogstate) and somatosensory (Cortical Metrics) testing with accuracy and motor times recorded. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) investigated corticospinal conduction and excitability. Results showed that there was little difference between groups in accuracy scores. Conversely, motor times in all but one test revealed that ex-athletes with self-reported concerns were significantly slower compared to other groups (p ranges 0.031 to <0.001). TMS latency showed significantly increased time (p = 0.008) in the group with ongoing concerns. These findings suggest that incorporating motor times is more informative than considering accuracy scores alone.
Long-Term Cumulative Effects of Repeated Concussions in Cyclists: A Neurophysiological and Sensorimotor Study
(MDPI AG, 2025-10-22) Pearce, Alan J; King, Doug
Objectives: Sports-related concussion (SRC) is mostly associated with contact and combat sports. However, emerging evidence suggest that cyclists are also at risk of repeated concussion injury. Moreover, long-term neurophysiological outcomes in cycling cohorts remain underexplored. This novel study investigated the long-term effect of repetitive concussions in cyclists. Road, mountain biking (MTB), and BMX riders with a history of concussions and self-reported persistent symptoms were assess for neurophysiology and cognitive-motor performance compared to previously concussed cyclists with no ongoing symptoms. Both groups were compared to age-matched with controls. Methods: Using a cross-sectional between-group design, 25 cyclists with a history of concussions (15 symptomatic, 10 asymptomatic) and 20 controls completed symptom reporting, cognitive and balance assessments (SCAT5), sensorimotor testing using vibrotactile stimulation, and neurophysiological assessments via transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Results: Symptomatic cyclists reported a higher number of concussions compared to asymptomatic cyclists (p = 0.041). Cognitive testing revealed large effects (d > 1.0), with impaired concentration in symptomatic cyclists compared to controls (p = 0.005). Motor assessments demonstrated large effects (d > 1.0), with slower tandem gait times (p < 0.001) and greater errors (p = 0.02) in the symptomatic group. Sensorimotor testing indicated slowed simple reaction times (p = 0.001) and poorer temporal order judgement (p = 0.038). TMS showed large effects (d > 1.0) in increased cortical inhibition in the symptomatic group, with prolong cortical silent periods (p < 0.05) and large effects (d > 1.0), and reduced short interval intracortical inhibition (p = 0.001) compared to asymptomatic cyclists and controls. Conclusions: Cyclists reporting persistent symptoms showed greater cortical inhibition and impaired cognitive-motor performance, consistent with findings in contact sport athletes. These results suggest that repeated concussions in cycling carry risk of chronic neurophysiological alterations. Cycling disciplines should consider more rigorous concussion identification protocols and stricter management strategies to mitigate persistent and long-term consequences.
We Carry Home With Us: Pacific Athlete Migration
(Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Library, 2025-08-31) Enari, Dion; Wright, Richard; Fox, Levi
Globalisation is not a recent phenomenon, nor does it occur evenly or in a vacuum. Western Scholars have traced the origins of sport-related globalisation back to the 1870s. Interestingly, Pacific migration had long occurred before the arrival of missionaries to the islands. As a result, Pacific diaspora communities can be seen around the world as they establish their families globally. Now, Pacific migration is more complex than one-way migration from the islands to countries like New Zealand and Australia, where many people migrate back and forth to the islands and other countries. This article explores Pacific notions of migration and how this informs Pacific athlete behaviour. Through understanding this phenomenon from a Pacific standpoint, we can identify how sport organisations can be more inclusive. This article aims to inform policies, rules, and regulations in the fields of sports and migration by highlighting how Pacific athletes carry their cultural identity and traditions in a contemporary, globalised sporting era.
The Impact of Digital Technologies on Children and Adolescents in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Case for the Development of Best-Practice Recommendations for Schools
(University of Waikato, 2025-10-13) Cullen, J; Marsh, S; Simmonds, L; Duncan, Scott
The use of digital technologies is increasing in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) schools to support future-focused learning and allow students to gain 21st century skills that can enable them to participate and thrive in a digital future. NZ students have among the highest use of digital technologies in the world, and digital devices present both opportunities and risks to educational outcomes and health/well-being. Pragmatic guidelines have been developed internationally to support the safer use of digital technologies in education settings, and a review was carried out to examine the need for such guidance in a NZ context. While studies present mixed results, emerging evidence from analysis of international and national standardised assessments indicates that the impact of digital technologies on learning outcomes is not neutral, and while some use can benefit learning, frequent use has been associated with reduced learning outcomes. Conditions and context of use seem important, including factors such as task selection, length of use, and whether device use is teacher-led or independent. Further research is needed to better understand the most effective ways to use digital technologies for learning. Additionally, emerging evidence highlights numerous negative health impacts that are associated with frequent and extended use of digital devices. Informed recommendations for the use of digital technologies in NZ schools may allow students to get the best that digital technologies can offer to learning, with lower risk.
Carbohydrate Reduction and a Holistic Model of Care in Diabetes Management: Insights from a Retrospective Multi-Year Audit in New Zealand
(MDPI AG, 2025-12-17) Zinn, C; Campbell, JL; Fraser, L; Davies, G; Hawkins, M; Currie, O; Cannons, J; Unwin, D; Crofts, C; Stewart, T; Schofield, G
Background/Objectives: The global epidemic of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a critical public health issue, particularly in New Zealand, where prevalence rates are high, especially among Māori and Pacific people. Recent research indicates that dietary interventions, particularly carbohydrate reduction, can lead to the remission or reversal of T2D. However, little is known about how such approaches perform when implemented in routine New Zealand primary care, particularly within high-risk and underserved populations. This study aimed to evaluate changes in HbA1c, diabetes status, and cardiometabolic outcomes among adults with prediabetes and T2D engaged in such a model of care. Methods: This study reports findings from a retrospective, observational, real-world, multi-site clinical audit (service evaluation) of a holistic model of care implemented in three primary care practices in New Zealand. The model of care is characterised by a three-pronged approach: whole food, carbohydrate reduction; a health-coach, behaviour-change-based delivery approach; and community- or peer-based initiatives. Audit data from 106 patients with prediabetes (PD) and T2D were analysed (median follow-up 19 months; IQR 6–32) to assess changes in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, diabetes status, and cardiometabolic outcomes. Results: We observed an overall reduction in HbA1c (median change −3 mmol/mol (IQR: −7 to 3), p = 0.004), with 32% of patients with T2D at baseline achieving reversal and 44% of those with PD attaining normoglycaemia at final follow-up. Weight loss was associated with greater HbA1c reduction (0.56 mmol/mol decrease per kg lost) and additional improvements seen in lowered alanine aminotransferase (ALT). HDL cholesterol showed a small decline (r = 0.31), and triglycerides and blood pressure showed no significant change, indicating that these measures remained broadly stable over the evaluation period. Conclusions: Given the retrospective and uncontrolled audit design, findings should be interpreted with appropriate caution. However, the consistent improvements observed across multiple practices suggest that carbohydrate-reduction strategies within holistic models of care can meaningfully improve diabetes outcomes in real-world primary care settings. Future research should evaluate longer-term sustainability, implementation fidelity, and the applicability of this model at scale, particularly for Māori and Pacific communities.
Understanding Gameplay Acceleration Ability, Using Static Start Assessments: Have We Got It Right?
(MDPI AG, 2026-01-04) Pryer, Mark E; Cronin, John; Neville, Jonathon; Mascioli, Nick; Slocum, Chris; Barger, Sean; Uthoff, Aaron
Background/Objectives: Despite athletes initiating sprints from dynamic starts during gameplay, sprint performance is traditionally measured from a static position. This article aimed to determine whether static start or “pickup” acceleration are related or relatively independent motor qualities by assessing their relationship and examining how athletes’ rank order changes between static and pickup conditions. Methods: Thirty-one male athletes (20.3 ± 5.3 years) completed two 30 m sprints from a static start and two 30 m pickup accelerations following 20 m paced entries at 1.5 and 3.0 m/s−1, regulated by an LED system. Peak acceleration (amax) was measured via a horizontal linear position encoder (LPE; 1080 Sprint). Results: The shared variance between amax from the static and pickup starts was R2 = 11.6–39.6%, indicating, for the most part, a great amount of unexplained variance. The shared variance between pickup acceleration entry velocities was R2 = 16.8%. A visual analysis of an individualized rank-order table confirmed that, for the most part, the fastest static-start athletes differed from the fastest pickup athletes. Conclusions: In summary, static and pickup acceleration appear to be distinct motor abilities, most likely requiring a paradigm shift in strength and conditioning practices for acceleration assessment and development.
Prediabetes is Pre-Nothing: Call It Early Type 2 Diabetes [Editorial]
(AOSIS, 2025-11-19) Zinn, Caryn
Does Early Specialisation Improve Drop Jump and Y-balance Performance in Junior Football Players?
(Sport and Exercise Science New Zealand, 2025-12-15) Zoellner, Anja; Whatman, Chris; Read, Paul; Sheerin, Kelly
Sport specialisation has been defined as the intense involvement in a single sport to the exclusion of all other sports. Previous research has raised questions about potential negative consequences of specialising at a young age. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in drop jump and y-balance performance in junior football players based on level of specialisation. This was a cross-sectional observational study involving 35 male footballers aged 10.2 ± 1.1 years. Participants were grouped as high, moderate, and low specialised. Level of specialisation was determined using a survey on their sports participation history. Tests included anterior Y-balance test and drop jumps assessed using the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS). Between-group differences were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and chi-squared analysis with an a priori statistical significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Hedge’s g effect sizes were reported for all results. High specialised players displayed greater left leg relative reach than moderate (mean diff = 10.9% LL; 95% CI [2.2, 19.6]; p = 0.013; Hedge’s g = 0.78) but not low (mean diff = 5.0% LL; 95% CI[-4.0, 14.1]; p = 0.218; Hedge’s g = 0.39) specialised players. No other significant differences were observed in Y-balance performance. High specialised players displayed fewer LESS errors than moderate (mean diff = 2.75 errors; 95% CI [0.05, 5.48]; p = 0.009; Hedge’s g = -0.90), but not low (mean diff = 2.20 errors; 95% CI [-5.05, 0.65]; p = 0.101; Hedge’s g = -0.57) specialised players. ‘Knee flexion displacement’ was the only LESS criterion that differed significantly between groups, with errors more common in moderately specialised players (n = 9) than both high (n = 0) and low (n = 5) specialised players (p = 0.003). These results suggest early specialised junior football players may perform better in the drop jump and y-balance tests than their less specialised counterparts. Results suggest all players may benefit from participation in injury prevention programmes such as the FIFA 11+, in particular moderately specialised players.
Internationally Validated Open Access Indicators of Large Public Urban Green Space for Healthy and Sustainable Cities
(Wiley, 2025-09-15) Turner, R; Higgs, C; Heikinheimo, V; Hunter, R; Vargas, JCB; Liu, S; Resendiz, E; Boeing, G; Adlakha, D; Schifanella, R; Rosa, GL; Pugacheva, D; Chen, R; Poor, MB; Molina-García, J; Queralt, A; Puig-Ribera, A; del Pozo, PS; Garza, C; Valson, J; Salvo, D; Cerin, E; Hinckson, E; Lowe, M
Large public urban green spaces (LPUGS) provide multiple health and environmental co-benefits by mitigating urban heat, improving air quality and biodiversity, and promoting physical activity, social interactions, and mental wellbeing. There is a lack of accessible, evidence-informed, and internationally validated LPUGS indicators to assist with benchmarking and monitoring progress toward healthy and sustainable cities globally. This study developed and validated internationally applicable spatial indicators of LPUGS availability and accessibility that are directly relevant to health and sustainability outcomes. For 13 cities across 10 middle- to high-income countries, we identified LPUGS ≥ 1 ha by fusing OpenStreetMap and satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index data, and estimated residents' access within 500 m pedestrian network distance. We conducted a two-step validation process with local collaborators in each city. Our indicator methods identified LPUGS with greater than 80% accuracy for 12 of the 13 cities, and comparisons against official local reference data for four cities further demonstrated validity. While some open data limitations were identified, the indicators address critical gaps in existing methods by enabling standardized and comparable measurement of LPUGS in diverse cities internationally. Our customizable open-source global indicator tools can inform evidence-based green space planning for urban health and sustainability.
The Effect of Eccentric Phase Duration on Maximal Strength, Muscle Hypertrophy and Countermovement Jump Height: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2025-07-21) Amdi, Christian Houmann; King, Andrew
The duration of the eccentric phase may affect resistance training (RT) adaptations, with narrative reviews yielding equivocal conclusions. Thus, five databases were searched following Cochrane and PRISMA-guidelines, to compare RT outcomes following shorter (SEG) and longer (LEG) eccentric phase durations. A prospectively registered (https://osf.io/s6uqn/) random-effects multi-level meta-analysis with robust variance estimation was performed for strength, hypertrophy and countermovement jump height (CMJ), with results interpreted relative to a region of practical equivalence. Evidence quality was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 and GRADE criteria. Nine studies involving 166 participants (46% trained, 77% male) were included. SEG enhanced CMJ by a practically worthwhile degree with moderate certainty (Hedge's g = -0.73 [90% CI = -1.34, -0.12; 90% PI = -1.34, -0.12]), while uncertain estimates were observed for maximal strength (g = 0.25 [90% CI = -0.17, 0.67; 90% PI = -0.86, 1.36]) and muscle hypertrophy (g = 0.05 [90% CI = -0.22, 0.33; 90% PI = -0.54, 0.64]). LEG led to practically equivalent or enhanced strength gains, compared to SEG, in trained participants (g = 0.33 [90% CI = 0.07, 0.60; 90% PI = 0.07, 0.60]) and volume-load matched trials (g = 0.25 [90% CI = 0.04, 0.45; 90% PI = 0.04, 0.45]) with moderate certainty in subgroup analyses. Therefore, SEG enhance CMJ, while LEG may cause similar or higher strength increases in trained participants and volume-load matched conditions. However, more research is needed.
Priming Exercises and Their Potential Impact on Speed and Power Performance: A Narrative Review
(Termedia, 2025-06-25) Pereira, Lucas A; Zmijewski, Piotr; Golas, Artur; Kotuła, Krzysztof; McGuigan, Michael R; Loturco, Irineu
Improving the competitive level of elite athletes is always a considerable challenge for coaches, regardless of the sport discipline or a training phase. From this perspective, researchers and sport scientists continuously seek more effective training methods, capable of inducing acute changes or long-term adaptations in athletes with diverse training backgrounds. Recently, priming exercises have emerged as a promising approach to enhance athletic performance over short periods of time, either before sport-specific training sessions or official competitions. By incorporating different priming protocols into their regular practices—including sets of traditional resistance exercises, ballistic exercises or sprint drills—athletes have consistently achieved significant improvements in their speed and power qualities within time intervals ranging from 2 h to 48 h. This narrative review summarizes and examines the main studies on this topic, while providing practitioners with theoretical perspectives, practical insights, and guidelines for implementing efficient priming protocols in their training routines. In conclusion, priming interventions generally produce positive outcomes, irrespective of the exercise type and athletes’ backgrounds, and may facilitate the transfer of these benefits to certain sport-specific tasks.
Short Term Body Mass Manipulation in Powerlifting: A Narrative Review and Best Practice Recommendations
(Taylor & Francis Group, 2025-11-30) Renner, A; Helms, ER; Kwan, K; Csapo, R
Short Term Body Mass Manipulation (SBM) is frequently used in powerlifting by athletes to qualify for lower weight classes and improve relative competitiveness. The three primary physiological pathways that SBM leverages are gastrointestinal content reduction, glycogen storage and body water manipulation, in addition to post-weigh-in refueling. Despite its high prevalence among athletes competing in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), the scientific literature on SBM remains limited, and sport-specific guidelines are currently lacking. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on SBM in powerlifting, with a focus on physiological mechanisms, practical implementation, and associated risks. The specific demands of IPF competition, consisting of maximal strength performance after only a two-hour window between weigh-in and competition, necessitate uniquely tailored SBM strategies. SBM should not be regarded as a standard preparation method. Instead, it should be seen as a targeted intervention to be applied with caution and strategic intent. The decision to implement SBM must be based on individual assessment, physiological plausibility, and a well-considered cost-benefit rationale. Ensuring effective rehydration and refueling between weigh-in and competition is critical to support both safety and performance. This review provides sport specific, evidence-based recommendations to assist practitioners in applying SBM responsibly within the context of powerlifting.
Durability of the Moderate-to-Heavy Intensity Transition Can Be Predicted Using Readily Available Markers of Physiological Decoupling
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-05-22) Rothschild, Jeffrey A; Gallo, Gabriele; Hamilton, Kate; Stevenson, Julian D; Dudley-Rode, Harrison; Charoensap, Thanchanok; Plews, Daniel J; Kilding, Andrew E; Maunder, Ed
Purpose To assess relationships between heart rate (HR), ventilation (Ѷᴇ), and respiratory frequency (Fꭆ) decoupling and durability of the first ventilatory threshold (VT₁), and the strength of practical models to predict power output at VT₁ during prolonged exercise. Methods Durability of VT₁ was assessed via measurements of power output at VT₁ before and after ~ 2.5-h of initially moderate-intensity cycling in 51 trained cyclists, as part of four studies published elsewhere. In 12 of those participants, power output at VT₁ was assessed every hour until task failure. For every assessment of power output at VT₁, HR, Fꭆ, and Ѷᴇ was measured at fixed power outputs, and thus decoupling of these variables with power output was determined. Bivariate repeated-measures correlations (rᵣₘ) between decoupling and durability of VT₁ were assessed. Multivariable models were created to predict power output at VT₁ during prolonged exercise using generalised estimating equations. Results Negative correlations were observed between exercise-induced change in power output at VT₁ and HR (rᵣₘ = −0.76, P < 0.001) and Fꭆ (rᵣₘ = −0.40, P = 0.013) decoupling, but not Ѷᴇ decoupling (rᵣₘ = −0.25, P = 0.136). The final prediction model, containing baseline VT₁ and peak oxygen uptake, Fꭆ decoupling, and an interaction between HR decoupling and exercise duration, effectively predicted real-time VT₁ (mean absolute error, ~ 7.2 W; R², 0.95). Conclusion HR and/or Fꭆ decoupling during controlled training sessions may be a practically useful durability assessment. Our prediction models may be an effective means of improving within-session intensity regulation and training load monitoring.
Concussion Risk and the Need for Prevention: An Exploration Into the Complexity of Community Perspectives in Rugby Union
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-06-19) Badenhorst, Marelise; Romanchuk, Janelle; Salmon, Danielle; Brown, James Craig; Hendricks, Sharief; Walters, Simon
Background Community perceptions of injury risk can impact participation rates and may influence attitudes and behaviours around prevention efforts. Understanding how end-users think about concussion-related risk and the need for prevention is critical for the design and implementation of interventions. This study aimed to explore community rugby union stakeholders’ perceptions of concussion risk and the need for prevention. Methods This pragmatic, qualitative descriptive study utilised semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 62 school- and club-level community rugby stakeholders (provincial union representatives, players, coaches, school/club sport administrators, team leads (managers), physiotherapists, nurses and doctors) from across New Zealand during the 2022 rugby season. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Three themes were developed from the data. The theme ‘concussion risk: a spectrum of concern’ included a spectrum of beliefs ranging from ‘concussions are a problem’ to the belief that concussions are only a problem if not managed well or that it has always been part of the game, and the risks are being exaggerated. A second theme, ‘focus on technique and conditioning, or is injury just the nature of the game?’, described beliefs in the importance of technique and conditioning or contrary beliefs such as ‘as long as there is contact, there will be concussion’. A third theme, ‘conflicting concussion narratives’, described the tendency of some participants to move back and forth across the spectrum of risk and prevention perceptions, depending on the context. Conclusions Findings reveal a diversity of perspectives on how concussions should be managed or prevented. Balancing these perspectives is critical. This involves addressing unfavourable beliefs, prioritizing both prevention and effective management and community-wide education
Differences Between the Sexes in Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes in Community Football (Soccer) Players in New Zealand
(Elsevier BV, 2025-02-16) Hardaker, Natalie J; Hume, Patria A; Collins, Juno Barnett; King, Doug A; Sims, Stacy T; Selfe, James
Objectives: To evaluate self-reported concussion knowledge and attitudes in community football players in New Zealand, comparisons were made between the sexes and those with and without history of concussion. Design: Cross-sectional cohort study. Methods: The Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey (RoCKAS) was used for data collection and analysis. Players were recruited through the New Zealand Football registered player database. Results: Seventy-four players had data eligible for inclusion (55 % female). Thirty-four players (45 %) had previously diagnosed concussion (56 % female). Mean Concussion Knowledge Index (CKI) scores were significantly (p = 0.002) higher for male (20.8 ± 1.4) than female (19 ± 3.7) players. There were no significant sex differences in mean Concussion Attitude Index (CAI) scores (female 63.7 ± 11.4, male 65.6 ± 6.0; p = 0.427). Surprisingly, 32 % female and 39 % male players indicated that they would play on with symptoms of concussion. Comparison within female players showed a significantly higher CKI (20.3 ± 1.7 versus 18.8 ± 2.6; p = 0.025) and higher CAI (66.5 ± 4.9 versus 64.1 ± 5.9; p = 0.151) in players with a history of concussion. There were no within male player trends for CKI or CAI. Conclusions: Male players had a notably higher concussion knowledge (CKI) than female players. Females with a previously diagnosed concussion also had a notably higher CKI than female players with no concussion history. Therefore, healthcare professionals could play a key education role when managing players with concussion. Given over a third of players indicated that they would play on with symptoms of concussion, education should focus on short- and long-term impacts of concussion and potential consequences of concussion.
Lactic acidosis: Implications for Human Exercise Performance
(Springer, 2025-03-15) Cairns, Simeon; Lindinger, Michael
During high-intensity exercise a lactic-acidosis occurs with raised myoplasmic and plasma concentrations of lactate⁻ and protons ([lactate⁻], [H⁺] or pH). We critically evaluate whether this causes/contributes to fatigue during human exercise. Increases of [lactate⁻] per se (to 25 mM in plasma, 50 mM intracellularly) exert little detrimental effect on muscle performance while ingestion/infusion of lactate⁻ can be ergogenic. An exercise-induced intracellular acidosis at the whole-muscle level (pHᵢ falls from 7.1-7.0 to 6.9-6.3), incorporates small changes in slow-twitch fibres (pHᵢ ~ 6.9) and large changes in fast-twitch fibres (pHᵢ ~ 6.2). The relationship between peak force/power and acidosis during fatiguing contractions varies across exercise regimes implying that acidosis is not the sole cause of fatigue. Concomitant changes of other putative fatigue factors include phosphate metabolites, glycogen, ions and reactive oxygen species. Acidosis to pHᵢ 6.7-6.6 at physiological temperatures (during recovery from exercise or induced in non-fatigued muscle), has minimal effect on force/power. Acidosis to pHᵢ ~ 6.5-6.2 per se reduces maximum force (~12%), slows shortening velocity (~5%), and lowers peak power (~22%) in non-fatigued muscles/individuals. A pre-exercise induced-acidosis with ammonium chloride impairs exercise performance in humans and accelerates the decline of force/power (15-40% initial) in animal muscles stimulated repeatedly in situ. Raised [H⁺]ᵢ and diprotonated inorganic phosphate ([H₂PO₄⁻]ᵢ) act on myofilament proteins to reduce maximum cross-bridge activity, Ca²⁺-sensitivity, and myosin ATPase activity. Acidosis/[lactate⁻]ₒ attenuates detrimental effects of large K⁺-disturbances on action potentials and force in non-fatigued muscle. We propose that depressive effects of acidosis and [H₂PO₄⁻]ᵢ on myofilament function dominate over the protective effects of acidosis/lactate- on action potentials during fatigue. Raised extracellular [H⁺]/[lactate⁻] do not usually cause central fatigue but do contribute to elevated perceived exertion and fatigue sensations by activating group III/IV muscle afferents. Modulation of H⁺/lactate⁻ regulation (via extracellular H⁺-buffers, monocarboxylate transporters, carbonic anhydrase, carnosine) supports a role for intracellular acidosis in fatigue. In conclusion, current evidence advocates that severe acidosis in fast-twitch fibres can contribute to force/power fatigue during intense human exercise.
Durability as an Index of Endurance Exercise Performance: Methodological Considerations
(Wiley, 2025-03-27) Hunter, Ben; Maunder, Ed; Jones, Andrew M; Gallo, Gabriele; Muniz-Pumares, Daniel
Endurance athletes routinely complete physiological assessments to predict performance, inform training programmes and monitor subsequent training adaptations. This profiling is typically performed with the athlete in a 'fresh' (i.e., rested) condition, but physiological profiling variables deteriorate during prolonged exercise. Durability has been defined as the resilience to the deterioration of physiological variables and performance during or following prolonged exercise. Herein, we review the current approaches to measure durability. The construction of the fatiguing protocol affects durability profiles, with greater relative intensity and duration resulting in more marked deterioration of baseline measures. The design of durability assessments should control for factors that could impact durability measurements, such as nutrition and environmental characteristics, to ensure that outcomes are repeatable and can be compared between athletes or over time in the same athlete. The selection of these parameters should be based on the proposed research question or applied context and take account of the training status of the athlete. Accordingly, this review highlights important considerations to ensure that protocols for profiling durability in research and applied practice are appropriate.

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