Authors:T.S. Murwira; L.H. Nemathaga A.M. Amosu Abstract: Food safety is becoming a key public health priority because a large number of people consume their meals outside their homes. As a result, they are exposed to food borne illnesses that originate from food stalls, restaurants and other food outlets. Hence the major objective of carrying out this research study was to assess food handler's adherence to personal hygiene practices in fast food outlets in Thohoyandou as stipulated in national food hygiene and regulations. The data was collected using participant observational checklist. Simple random sampling was used to select 122 food handlers as participants in the study. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages). Result analysis was made based on the standards and the requirements prescribed by Regulation R962 of November 2012. The findings showed that food handlers observed personal hygiene by wearing clean uniforms, covering their heads with hair nets, and washed their hands, indicating that food handlers maintained accepted standards in terms of personal hygiene regulations. Regarding health surveillance practices majority of food handler were not medically examined regularly, however they reported illness to management when sick, but some prepared food when they had cough and open sores on their hands. The study recommends that strict adherence to Regulations R962 be enforced and adhered to in order to ensure and assure the preservation and maintenance of food safety. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:R.M. Kekana; L.D. Swindon J.M. Mathobisa Abstract: Role extension for radiographers in South Africa is driven by the need to improve service delivery challenges and the radiographers' need for professional recognition. The two areas earmarked for role extension are injection of contrast media and reporting on radiographs. This study was conducted to determine the willingness of diagnostic radiographers to extend their roles and gather the opinions of radiologists regarding this role extension. A quantitative, descriptive, exploratory and cross-sectional study was conducted. A sample of 300 radiographers and 30 radiologists was taken from a population of 7771 radiographers and 885 radiologists as per the Health Professions Council of South Africa register (HPCSA). Survey Monkey was used for making questionnaires accessible to all participants. The level of significance was fixed at 5%. Sixty-eight percent of radiographers agreed in principle to injection of contrast media and only 25.5% agreed to provide a written report on the interpretation of radiographs. Eighty percent of radiologists agreed in principle to radiographers injecting contrast media and only 11.6% agreed to radiographers providing a written report on the interpretation of radiographs. The participants gave an average response of 74.4% on the need for radiologists to take responsibility for the adverse reactions that may results from injecting contrast media. Radiographers and radiologists supported the need for further education and training and role extension for injecting contrast media. There is concern over the 'no one' response as to who performs radiologists' work and how this impacted on service delivery. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:R. Leech; N.C Van Wyk K. Uys Abstract: By virtue of their access to infants and their families, community nurses in South Africa are provided with an important window of opportunity to assess and positively influence infant health and development. Hence, developmental surveillance should be incorporated into the ongoing healthcare of the child. Such routine child development services are not consistently provided by community nurses and if at all these services are provided, significant inadequacies hamper the delivery thereof. A single holistic case study design was used to explore the perceptions of caregivers and community nurses about the responsibilities of community nurses regarding the management of infant developmental needs in a primary healthcare clinic in one of the provinces in South Africa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five nurses and eleven caregivers of infants. Data were analysed by means of content analysis. Community nurses do not focus adequately on infant development, as stipulated in their scope of practice. The caregivers indicated that they receive limited emotional and appraisal support. The only interventions indicated by the community nurses were that of referral and limited anticipatory guidance. This study highlights the importance of community nurses living up to their responsibility regarding the management of infant developmental needs to ensure optimal outcomes for both the infant and the family. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M. Lombard; W. Pretorius, S. Hall, H. Kruger, F. Rossouw, P.E Kruger H.P. Meyer Abstract: Chronic pain is often associated with impaired muscle strength and limited physical activity and performance, resulting in impaired physical functioning. This study aimed to determine whether voluntary participation in a structured 6-week hydrotherapy exercise programme would improve pain management, functionality and quality of life in an elderly population (n = 22; 77.7 ± 6.6 y)suffering from chronic pain and living in nursing homes in Tshwane. The experimental group (n= 13) attended hydrotherapy classes twice a week for six weeks, while the control group (n = 9)did not. Questionnaires were completed (Chronic Pain Grade, Functional Status Index, and the SF 36), and functional testing performed, in both groups at weeks 0, 3 and 6. The experimental group reported reduced pain intensity at week 3 (p = 0.051); reduced pain-induced disability at week 6 (p = 0.080); reduced assisted help required for activities of daily living (ADL) at week 3 (p = 0.040); reduced difficulty on performing ADL at week 3 (p = 0.012) and reduced pain experienced with ADL at week 3 (p = 0.007) and week 6 (p = 0.014). Improvements in upper body strength and agility were demonstrated. Improvements in sub-scales for quality of life were demonstrated at weeks 3 and 6. The control group showed no statistically significant changes in the above parameters. In conclusion, participation in structured hydrotherapy classes has been shown in this small study to be a beneficial intervention strategy for managing chronic pain in the elderly. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:B. J. Ndaba; Z.Z. Nkosi Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of the newly qualified professional nurses in midwifery section. A qualitative descriptive, interpretative phenomenological research was conducted to determine the experiences. The sample included newly qualified professional nurses doing community service. Data collection was conducted by means of unstructured interviews from ten (n=10) informants. Each interview was approximately 45 minutes. Ethical issues were considered. Hussel and Heidergadian's data analysis steps were followed. Two (2) themes and eleven (11) sub-themes emerged from the data collected. The findings revealed that the newly qualified professional nurses were in a state of reality shock, demonstrated by challenges such as shortage of human and material resources; overcrowding; lack of support; and the placement of Midwifery. Nursing Science in the curriculum has impacted negatively on midwives' registration as professional nurses. The majority of professional nurses indicated that they will resign from their current employment as the environment was not conducive for practice. More support is needed for newly qualified professional nurses doing community services in public hospitals. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M.O. Kgasha; Maguga N.T.C. Phasha, M.E. Makgatho, F. Mashinya M.M. Moraba Abstract: Tuberculosis is a worldwide health burden with high morbidity and mortality rates. About 8 million people are infected annually, with 1.5 million deaths reported in 2013. The disease is complicated by its high drug resistance and transmission rate. Information about drug resistance, evolutionary genetics and transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains is limited in Limpopo Province. The aims of the study were therefore to characterise and genotype Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum samples from patients living in Limpopo Province and to establish the main families of Mycobacterium tuberculosis circulating in the province and their main genetic mutations. Two hundred and seven (207) acid-fast positive samples were collected from National Health Laboratory Services in Polokwane. Geno Type MTBDRplus and Real-Time PCR were used to determine resistance genes and families, respectively. Beijing and non-Beijing genotypes were detected in 27.6% and 72.4% of the strains, respectively. Co-infection with both genotypes was detected in one sample. Of the 207 Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains tested, 28 (13.5%) exhibited drug resistance, of which 14 isolates (50%) were multi-drug resistant. Monoresistant strains to rifampicin constituted 25% (7 isolates) and the other 25% (7 isolates) were mono-resistant to isoniazid. Rifampicin mutations were identified in codons 516 (43%), 526 (33%) and 531 (38%) of the rpoB gene. Isoniazid mutations were identified in codons 15 (19%) and 16 (14%) of the inhA gene and codon 315 (62%) of the katG gene. The non-Beijing is moreprevalent than the Beijing genotype in the Limpopo Province. Drug resistance against rifampicin and isoniazid was in different genes and codons. The high rate of drug resistance calls for continuous monitoring of antimicrobial drugs and treatment default by TB victims. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:L. Skaal; E.R. Mathibedi Abstract: Poor eating habits and physical inactivity are directly linked to health consequences. It is however, not known whether the policymakers in the department of health have adopted a healthy lifestyle which include exercising and eating healthy or not. The aim of this study therefore was to determine the level of physical activity (PA) and eating habits of employees at the Gauteng Department of Health (GDOH), South Africa. The study was conducted among 340 employees of the National Head office of the Department of Health in South Africa. Height and weight were measured; and body mass index calculated. Physical activity level was measured using a validated International Physical Activity Questionnire (IPAQ) and food frequency questionnaire was used for eating habits. The results showed that 40% of participants were overweight, and 37.6% were obese, with females being more obese than males. Of these, 54.7% were inactive and only 14.9% met the WHO-reference for PA level. There was generally a high intake of oily foods and moderate intake of sugary food. Overweight and obesity together with physical inactivity and unhealthy eating were high among GDOH employees irrespective of gender, job category and age. Work site interventions that promote healthy lifestyle are possible interventions of utmost importance at this department to minimise the risk of obesity and subsequent development of non-communciable diseases. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:O. Khondowe; V.C. Nikodem, J.M. Frantz K. Harper Abstract: Human immune deficiency virus (HIV) is known to be neurotropic and may cause motor and cognitive development impairment in HIV-positive children. There is inadequate evidence on the effectiveness of neuro-developmental therapy on the motor and cognitive development of HIV-positive children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical activity programme on motor and cognitive development in HIV-positive children. Children were randomly allocated to an intervention group who received an individual physical activity programme and massage therapy or to a control group who received standard treatment and massage therapy. Group allocation was concealed in sequentially numbered and opaque, sealed envelopes. The Bayley Scales of Infant Development third edition was used to assess the motor and cognitive development. One hundred and twenty eight children between the ages of three and 36 months were enrolled. No significant differences were found at three or six months after randomisation, between the two groups in the mean motor and cognitive development scores or in the proportions of children that presented with motor or cognitive developmental delay. Fewer children in both groups presented with a delay in motor development at the six-month follow-up visit. The proportion of children with cognitive delay decreased by 2% in the intervention group but increased by 15% in the control group at six months. Further research is required to investigate the need for the implementation of specially designed home-based physical activity intervention programmes with massage therapy to improve motor and cognitive development in HIV-positive children. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:A. Giampiccoli; S. Jugmohan O. Mtapuri Abstract: This article is conceptual based on a perusal of academic journal articles and books on matters related to Community-based Tourism (CBT). It contends that CBT is a very important tool for local economic development, community development, empowerment and the attainment of social justice. It observes disparities between rich and poor countries in terms of endowments and how the multiple dimensions of poverty can confound how tourism can be experienced in different contexts. It posits an eight Es model which represents the fundamental pillars upon which to judge a CBT for purposes of support, monitoring and evaluation. The eight E are Endogenous (emphasising a reliance on local resources); Environment - (reflecting the importance of caring for the environment, and broader environmental conditions and infrastructure); Education - (to advance skills and education); Empowerment - (which embraces economic, psychological, social and political empowerment); Equity - (for equitable distribution and re-distribution of both benefits and resources); Evolving - (always improving and changing to take advantage of dynamic opportunities); Enduring - (for long term sustainability) and supporting Entrepreneurship - (for innovation, creativity and viability). The framework/model is also significant as it provides a common ground upon which the understanding of CBT could be carried at international and national level. The model can be customised to take into account local conditions; it is flexible and all-encompassing with potential to be used for rating facilities. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:T.M. Tichaawa; S. Moyo, K. Swart O. Mhlanga Abstract: Various studies have demonstrated that the interest, or enthusiasm to host sport tourism events has been due to the perceived potential of such events to promote development, especially in terms of economic growth and such profiled locations as tourist destinations. This article appraises the impacts of hosting sport tourism events in East London South Africa. The study adopted a mixed method research design incorporating the qualitative and quantitative paradigms. A stratified random sampling approach was adopted in which 380 questionnaires were administered to the respondents via face-to-face interviews. The survey which used a 5 point Likert scale measured 21 items covering various positive and negative impacts associated with hosting sport events. The most salient issue to emerge from the data was that, overall, 34.7% of residents agreed and 32.9% strongly agreed with impact statements indicating a generally positive perception. However, the results also indicate that residents are concerned about aspects of the environment when such events are hosted. Furthermore, besides crime and prostitution, residents were also concerned about the extent to which event benefits are equally distributed within the community. Study concludes that tourism planners need to tailor their decisions to the residents' perceptions. This will enhance community's support, which is an essential ingredient for the success of sport tourism in the destination. A holistic plan which takes into consideration residents' perceptions at the same time incorporating all role players in these events is a step towards the success and the future of sport tourism events. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:N. Titus; J.P. Spencer Abstract: Slow tourism is the practice of quality time spent by visitors and tourists, usually in areas with natural resources such as heritage sites, protected parks and gardens. Visiting slow tourism areas and engaging in slow tourism activities allows the visitor to appreciate the destination at a much deeper level and in a sensitive manner. Limited local literature is available in South Africa on this new emerging niche form of tourism, where the slow tourist has the opportunity to experience the journey and the destination by staying in one place for a longer time, to see and experience things that are meaningful to them. This new alternative form of tourism is considered an antithesis to mass tourism, and liberates the visitor from angst and stress brought about by today's fast-paced lifestyles. The study was conducted at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens (KNBG) in Cape Town, South Africa, which has a strong attraction for tourists seeking open, green, natural spaces with unique flora and fauna. Tourism role-players and visitor groups have become more environmentally conscious in which they develop, promote, travel and consume tourism products. Sustainable and responsible tourism practices are at the forefront of the slow tourism phenomena which induces the demand and the supply chain of tourism products emphasised by ethical values. A predominately qualitative research methodology was followed to collect the primary data, using the grounded theory approach at the study site, and in-depth interviews with visitors and the Gardens management. The findings of the survey resulted in the development of a model to promote slow tourism using the economic resources of the KNBG. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M. Scholtz; M. Kruger M. Saayman Abstract: Considering the various formats of cricket, as well as the different reasons why tourists attend these events, it becomes clear that more direct marketing of these events is required in order to expand attendance at various cricket matches. It is furthermore important to generate a memorable event experience for attendees to encourage future attendance. This research therefore identified different cricket spectator segments at a five-day test match between Australia and South Africa, based on their main motives for attending. Our research has identified three distinct cricket fan clusters that differ in terms of their motives, socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics, as well as the factors that are regarded by them as important for a memorable cricket experience. This research makes an important contribution to the greater understanding of sports spectators, specifically cricket spectators, and to the literature on managing and marketing team sport events of this nature. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M. Dhurup; A. Muposhi R. Shamhuyenhanzva Abstract: Although global markets are converging, the realisation of a homogeneous global consumption culture remains a mirage. Researchers have since argued that purchase decisions of foreign sport apparel are influenced more by a host of nationalistic sentiments dominant in the domestic market. This study adopted a quantitative approach to investigate the attitude and purchase intention of South African consumers towards foreign sport apparel. The study was undertaken by means of a questionnaire survey with a convenience sample of 320 South African consumers who had purchase experience of foreign sport apparel. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was employed to validate the psychometric properties of five constructs that were measured by nineteen observed variables using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) Version 22.0. The CFA results indicated a good fit of all the measured constructs. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to test the hypothesised relationships. Path modeling results indicated that South African consumers exhibit negative yet moderate levels of ethnocentrism and animosity towards foreign sport apparel. The study however, showed a positive significant relationship between cosmopolitanism and attitude towards foreign sport apparel. The study also showed a significant positive relationship between attitudes towards foreign sport apparel and consumer purchase intention. The findings of the study have important implications in the marketing of sport apparel in the context of an emerging market such as South Africa. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:A.E. Goslin; M.G.O. Sere A. Kluka Abstract: The mandate of public local government is to provide services to constituents to improve overall quality of life. Local governments are increasingly pressured to provide services that reflect value for taxpayers' money and promise sustainable development. Sustainable development is, in turn,dependent upon quality decisions by political leaders and management capacity of civil servants. This study aimed to (1) determine the management capacity profile at sport and recreation facilities on local government level; and (2) identify areas of concern related to management capacity. The research design used was a quantitative, case study with a non-probability purposive sample (n=8). Although the purposive sample of eight recreation and sport facility managers is small, these respondents are responsible for managing 68% of the sport and recreation facilities within the scope of this investigation. Data was collected using the criteria based Capacity Analysis Tool self-administered questionnaire consisting of 88 sub-elements overeight dimensions of management (leadership, governance and strategy; administration and human resources; finances and budget of the facility; project design, management and evaluation; technical capacity; advocacy and networking; community ownership and accountability; and fund raising) and has a Cronbach Alpha value of 0.89 (x=0.89). Results indicated that the internalsystemic management capacity of the particular department in this investigation measured unsatisfactory ( x ± 2.50) in five of the eight management dimensions. While three dimensions scored satisfactory ( x ± 2.50) the overall collective management capacity score for all eight dimensions was unsatisfactory at x =2.33. As scholars proved a link between management capacity and organizational performance, the management capacity profile obtained from this study can be used as baseline from which management practices and capacity at sport and recreation facilities can be further developed. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M.H. Noorbhai; T.D. Noakes Abstract: Cricket has a known history spanning from the 16th century till present, with international matches having been played since 1844. The game of cricket arrived in Australia as early as colonisation began in 1788. Cricketers started playing on turf wickets in the late 1800's but the dimensions only became available later for both the boundary and pitch. As the years evolved, performances, batting, cricket gear, equipment, technology, playing surfaces and the three formats of the game gradually adapted to the laws of cricket. In addition, cricket bats were adapted to the playing conditions and the evolving laws of cricket. In modern cricket, the bats are bigger and stronger than those used in the earlier eras. Boundaries are also currently smaller which provides batsmen with an added advantage of scoring runs easily and at a rapid rate. Considerable research has also shown the range of evolvements in the cricket sciences. As the demand of players' contracts increase, the commitment and performance levels from players also increase which might also place players at an increased risk for injury. Technology has emerged and has been used to assist players to improve their performances as well as ways to prevent injuries. Based on these interventions, technology and innovative approaches have also shown to have both advantages and disadvantages of the game. The relevant questions to ask is: how far have we really advanced in the cricketing world? Have all facets since the game's inception become institutionalized to a business model? Legislations, ethical considerations and education are needed in order to ensure that there is an equilibrium of effective transitions and management not only for players, but also for the credibility of this beautiful game. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:L. Van Niekerk; D. Du Toit A.E. Pienaar Abstract: The effect of movement on academic performance has lately become a topic of interest in literature, as it is widely accepted that there is a strong relationship between motor and cognitive development. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between motor proficiency and academic performance of Senior Phase learners in Potchefstroom, an urban region in South Africa. A total of 236 children between the ages of 13 and 14 years were randomly selected out of eight schools. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency 2 was used to assess motor competency. The learners' academic performance was measured by making use of their average end-of-year academic marks and the marks of English and Mathematics. Significant correlations were found between fine motor control and the end-of-year average marks and English and Mathematics marks in some of the groups. Similarly,correlations were found between the scores of the manipulation coordination items and the English marks of most of the groups, while the end-of-year marks, English and Mathematics marks correlated with body coordination scores in most of the groups. The strength and agility items showed the strongest correlations with the end-of-year marks in all the groups, and the total motor proficiency score showed significant correlations with the end-of-year marks in all the groups. The results of this study imply that motor skill development and maintenance should be incorporated in the Physical Education curriculum for learners of this age group. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:H.T. Skaal; A.L. Toriola Abstract: Research has shown that social correlates of physical activity play an important role in individual participation in physical activity or sport, and hence their link with associated health benefits. The purpose of this study was to determine the status of physical activity (PA), body composition, health related fitness and social correlates of physical activity among adolescents attending high schools in the Tlokwe Local Municipality of the North West Province. A cross-sectional study design was followed on a total of 284 (111 boys and 173 girls) adolescents with the mean age of 14.90±0.72, who are part of the Physical Activity and Health Longitudinal Study (PAHLS). Height, weight, skin-fold thickness (triceps, subscapular and calf) and waist circumferences were measured through the standard procedures described by the International Standard of Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK). Body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WtHR) and percentage body fat (%BF) were used as measures of body composition. Health-related physical fitness (HRPF) was determined by measuring cardio-respiratory endurance, muscle strength and endurance, and flexibility using standardised tests test protocols. The standardised International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-Short form) and Social Support for Physical Activity questionnaire were used to gather information on physical activity and social correlates for physical activity, respectively. The results show that 29% of the 284 participants are underweight and 26% overweight. 34% of boys were underweight and 17% were overweight while 27% of girls were underweight and 32% overweight. Boys significantly (p < 0.05) performed better than girls in health-related fitness of standing broad jump, bent arm hang, sit ups and VO2max, except for sit and reach. Out of 284 participants, 34% participated in low physical activity and 35% in high physical activity. For the total group, 36% indicated that they never have someone who provides them with transportation to a place where they can do physical activities or play sports. About 19% of the participants never had friends who tell them that they are doing a good job at physical activity, 18.6% indicated their friends never encourage them to do physical activities or playsport, 15% never have someone to encourage them to do physical activities or sports; 14% never have someone watch them participate in physical activities or sports; and 12% never have someone tell them that they are doing well in physical activity. Overall, lack of social support to participate in physical activity in girls ranged from 11% to 54% as compared to boys 5% to 26%. Adolescent boys were underweight and highly active as compared to relatively overweight and inactive girls. One week PA participation among adolescents' is affected by many contrasts with the percentages in the never ranging from 8% to 36% (of which lack of transportation to the PA facilities was high 36%). Boys have high social correlates to participate in PA as compared to the girls. Urgent strategic public health interventions by all stakeholders dealing with adolescents as well as more research studies in the area are required. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:C. Gouws Abstract: The potential influence of a movement programme on academic performance in children appears to be underestimated. Movement is essential to education and can be regarded as one of the doorways to a child's scholastic performance. We are increasingly interested in the importance of movement because there seems to be a positive interchange between the brain and the body. This study reports on the potential influence of a kinderkinetic intervention programme on the scholastic performance of children aged 6-8 years. Children were selected from schools in the northern Zululand area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and divided into an experimental and a control group, each comprising 12 children, who were given a pre-test and a post-test based on the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test for Motor Proficiency (BOMTP) and the Quick Neurological Screening Test (QNST) to assess their motor proficiency and gross motor skills. A questionnaire familiar to the class room teacher (Connor Behaviour) was also used to observe the children's behaviour. The experimental group was subjected to an eight week kinderkinetic movement programme while the control group continued with their usual daily programme. The children in the experimental group showed a relative improvement in scholastic performance and motor proficiency. There was a significant correlation (r=.36, p≤ 0.05) between motor proficiency scores and scholastic performance of children in the experimental group. There was a meaningful relationship (r=0.55, p=≤ 0.05) between motor proficiency scores and the scores obtained on the Conner Classroom Behaviour Questionnaire. There was a significant relationship (r=0.49, p ≤ 0.05) for the control group and a negative correlation of (r 0.49 p ≤ 0.10) for the experimental group. The study demonstrated that there is a positive relationship between motor proficiency scores and the scores obtained on the Conner Classroom Behaviour Questionnaire. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:J. Grace; M. Bosch J. Du Toit Abstract: It is widely acknowledged that physical inactivity is a leading factor for obesity worldwide. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a pedometer-based physical activity intervention on the psychological well-being and selected physical and physiological indices in overweight/obese adolescents. Following a baseline assessment, 31 adolescents (22 females and 9 males) aged 12-18 years (Mean age 14.4 ± 0.7 years) who were overweight/obese were given a weekly plan with the goal to increase their daily steps every week by 5% for 8 weeks. Participants were evaluated for cardio respiratory fitness, resting heart rate, blood pressure, body mass index and psychological well-being both before and after the 8-week programme. Statistically significant changes were noted in participants' cardio respiratory fitness (d = 0.36; p= 0.049) and BMI (d = 0.091; p = 0.024). No significant differences were noted in personal growth (d = 0.22; p = 0.287); self-acceptance (d = 0.25; p = 0.137); autonomy (d = 0.20; p = 0.217) and environmental mastery (d = 0.24; p = 0.344). In conclusion our results indicate that are latively small change in activity caused a statistically significant improvement in cardio respiratory fitness with no significant impact on psychological well-being. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:T.M. Tichaawa; H.K.N. Bama K. Swart Abstract: The 2010 FIFA World Cup was heralded as Africa's first mega-event with the potential to leverage long term legacy outcomes. Most studies that have previously been commissioned on residents' perceptions have focused on the pre-event, with only a few focusing on post-event perceptions regarding the legacy impacts associated with such events. The importance of understanding residents views both in the pre-event and post-event context in the light of promoting the legacy imperatives of mega sports events has been variously underpinned in academic discourse. This study focuses on the legacy impacts of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Port Elizabeth; the aim of which is to measure residents' perceptions four years post the event.Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were used in the study. The survey population included residents living within a two-kilometre (2km) radius of the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth. The sample size (n=350) was achieved through face-to-face interviews with respondents. The data were collected using a Likert-type scale measurement in order to ascertain the degree of responsiveness of residents to certain predetermined impact related aspects. Key findings indicated that the community held generally positive perceptions towards the socio-economic legacy impacts of the event, although they were concerned that the benefits were mainly confined to the rich and big businesses. The study recommends the implementation of effective legacy identification strategies pre-event in order to justify the investments made towards hosting them, and to ensure successful outcomes for mega-event host communities. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:B. Oladunni; P.A. Lyoka D.T. Goon Abstract: disabilities in participating in sports in the selected special schools in the Amathole district, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Questionnaires, interviews and participant observation were used for data collection. The questionnaire was adapted from De Swardt's study on leisure functioning of learners with learning and physical disabilities. The observation instrument by Bond on disabled sports was applied with slight modifications. The common types of disabilities affecting the students were physical disability (51%), mental retardation (34%) and hearing impairment (15%). The proportion of students who strongly disagreed (4.2%) was not significantly different (p>0.05) from those who disagreed (2.7%) that their parents actually had a significant influence on their participation in sports. Similarly, the proportion of students who agreed (42.2%) that their parents significantly influenced their inclusion in sports did not vary significantly from those who strongly agreed (40.8%) at 5% level of significance. This shows that more than 80% of the students asserted that their parents had a significant influence on their inclusion in sports. However, 9.8% of the respondents were not sure of their parents' influence on their sports participation. This could be due to inability to interpret the question correctly. Inherent skills had a significant influence on children's participation in sports. Responses regarding reason for participation in sport suggest that students had high self-esteem about their physical condition. Students were motivated to participate in sport because of several factors including enjoyment, competency, need to socialise, for health and psychological benefits. Concerning enjoyment,22% of male participants strongly agreed that sport is fun and 40% of their female counterparts strongly agreed. About 56% male and 36% female students agreed that enjoyment was a strong motive behind their participation, while 5% male strongly disagree and only 2% of the female disagreed. Both male (78%) and female (76%) agreed that enjoyment was a strong motive behind their participation. On the issue of competency, students (male and female) shared similar view that participating in sports enabled them to enhance their movement skills competencies. The teachers agreed parents were not involved and portrayed lack of interest in their children's' sports participation and achievements. The present study has shown that students with disabilities shared unique and multiple motives for participation in sports. Some of the motives cited were competency, psychological and health benefits. Other motives are related to team sports such as the need to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow students such as friendship, excitement and fun. Parental influence, the students' inherent skills were identified as constraining factors encountered by students with disabilities in participation in sports. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:M.L. Mathunjwa; S.C. Mugandani, T. Djarova-Daniels, M. Ngcobo S. Ivanov Abstract: The research was aimed at identifying the anthropometric, physical and physiological characteristics of junior Taekwondo athletes to achieve an international status. Data were collected from 25 males and 11 females aged 15.5 ±2.6 years. Measurements consisted of body composition (body fat percentage (%BF), sum of 6 skinfolds), flexibility (sit & reach, hip flexor (HF) and quadriceps flexibility (QF), lower extremity explosive power (vertical jump (Diff VJ) and vertical jump relative power (R Power), muscle endurance (sit-ups and push-ups), muscular strength (hand-grip right and left), hexagonal agility (HEX) and agility T-test, aerobic power (20m bleep test (20MST) converted to maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max.). Data were analyzed using t-test for independent samples and Z-score statistics. Significant higher %BF and sum of skinfolds were recorded in junior female players. No differences in body mass, stature and BMI were found. Male athletes had higher (p < 0.001) VO2 max (42.2±6.8 ml/kg/min) compared to females (31.7±6.5 ml/kg/min). Female athletes showed lower (p < 0.001) results in push-ups(9.0±6.5 reps) compared to males (25.6±10.5 reps). Maximal grip strength (kg) of both hands was higher (p < 0.05) in males. No differences in sit-ups, explosive leg power and agility were found between males and females. The analysis of individual Z-score for assessment of fitness variables has practical implications contributing to the trainability and performance of junior taekwondo athletes. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:S. Krog Abstract: This study addressed the efficacy of 20 minutes of speed stacking for eight weeks and 16 weeks, as an additional activity to the academic programme, in enhancing learning performance. Speed stacking is a set of 12 cups which are stacked in a specific order and requires the learner to be competent in a number of perceptual and motor skills. The main aim of the study was to determine the impact of 20 minutes of speed staking on mathematics, reading, spelling, visual motor integration, visual sequencing and general intelligence. The sample drawn from three Grade one classes, was divided into group A (N=27) and group B (N=27). Pretesting and post testing was conducted using seven academic assessments. Both groups were exposed to the speed staking intervention programme using different sequences, at different times and retested after the speed staking programme. The empirical research consisted of quantitative data which were analysed by means of paired t-tests and/or Signed rank tests, as well as one-way Wilcoxon Rank Sum test to determine whether speed stacking (and a combination of speed stacking and time lapse) improved aspects of learner performance. Quantitative data were also collected in order to determine the teachers' observations of the impact of the study to serve as additional information to the academic assessments. Apart from the significance of the effect of the speed stacking intervention programme, the timing of the programmes proved to be significant. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:P.W. Mwenda; M.P. Wanderi, J.M. Andanje E.G. Rintaugu Abstract: A large component of the cultural traditions of African people has been handed down through generations. In the absence of written records, gradually with time, African communities came up with a number of cultural elements such as oral literature, games, music and dances that facilitated cognitive development to enhance recall and communication of facts. These are vital cultural elements that require preservation and perpetuation over time. The study focused on the Gusii traditional games in terms of their forms, participants, equipment and facilities, rules/ codes of play and the socio-cultural settings within which they were participated, as well as their significance to the participants. This being a descriptive study, interviews and observations were used. The mean age of the respondents was 76 years. The study identified twenty six (26) games as the required data. The study adapted Cheska's scheme to classify the games as follows : games of physical challenge and strategy, games of strategy and chance, games of survival, games of physical challenge and chance, detection games, games of chance only, simulation games and malevolence games. This information is presented in prose and in form of tables showing the frequencies and percentages of skills acquired from participating in the said games. Recommendations made in this study include; Ministry of Education, Science and Technology's encouragement of participation and preservation of traditional games by emphasizing their teaching at all levels as well as identification and documentation of traditional games of all other indigenous Kenyan communities whose studies have not been undertaken. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors:S.D. Edwards Abstract: The Global Coherence Initiative (GCI) was launched in 2008 by the Institute of Heart Math, a non-profit research and education organization, located in Boulder Creek, California. It seeks to research and explore science-based solutions to health and wellness issues (particularly heart focused care) through linking and correlating geophysical and human health phenomena, and developing strategies to help increase personal, social and global coherence. This paper describes the approach and hypotheses behind this initiative and outlines scientific research and health promotion opportunities for local scientific, research, health, educational and related tertiary educational institutions. PubDate: 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z
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