Abstract: Introduction. This study aimed to analyze how technical and tactical performance indicators differ by different match outcomes in women’s soccer and apply a comprehensive approach to match analysis.Material and Methods. The investigation analyzed many technical and tactical indicators of female club players from 28 matches in the Chinese Women’s Super League during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. These included both offensive and defensive indicators, such as goal kicks, clearances, interceptions, and more. Standard scores and T-scores were considered in illustrating the typical performance status of the team. In evaluating the technical and tactical performance indicators across various match outcomes, we applied non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis tests. This approach was taken because the data were found appropriate for the non-normal distribution, allowing the comprehensive detection of the differences across game states.Results. Kruskal-Wallis test-based statistical analysis showed that there is a substantial number of differences in team performance across slumped and high-performance phases within the games. The passable offensive indicators, such as shot frequency and forward passes, dropped significantly during the slump (p < 0.05). Amongst the defensive actions, there were significant increases. By contrast, in high-performance phases, offensive actions-shots and forward passes were significantly more frequent (p < 0.01), indicating dynamics in the change of the team approach according to the state of play.Conclusions. Our analysis showed that more offensive actions relate to a win in a match, while defensive action usually leads to a lost match. This result will offer valuable information to coaches for training and game strategies. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Physical activity and good diet are the primary determinants of body weight. The aim of the study was to compare physical activity and eating behaviours of overweight and obese females (taking into consideration their body fat distribution) with individuals with normal levels of body fat.Material and methods. The study included females aged 20-35. The study group consisted of 449 subjects, who were categorised into groups based on their body fat percentage: underweight, normal body fat, overweight and obese. The WHR index was computed in individuals who were overweight or obese. The assessment of physical activity levels was conducted using data obtained from the IPAQ, while eating behaviours were examined using the Dietary Habits And Nutrition Beliefs Questionnaire developed by the Polish Academy of Sciences.Results. Females who were overweight or obese exhibited greater values of the examined physical characteristics in comparison to individuals with normal levels of body fat. Subjects with fat tissue in the abdomen area had higher values of somatic characteristics. There were no statistically significant differences in physical activity levels between individuals with normal body fat and overweight or obese females. However, when the second group was divided into those with abdominal fatness and those with peripheral fatness, it was observed that individuals with abdominal fatness had lower levels of physical activity, including both total activity as well as vigorous and moderate activity. There were no significant differences in eating behaviours found between the groups.Conclusions. The amount and placement of fat tissue in young females is more closely linked to their levels of physical activity rather than their eating habits and knowledge about food and nutrition. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The purpose of the research was to analyze what role the accessibility and quality of health care plays in the country chosen as a tourist destination. It also examined where tourists get their information about health care in the country they plan to go to and whether they had to use medical services at the place of their stay.Material and methods. An analysis of source materials was performed and a diagnostic survey was conducted.Results. While the quality and availability of health care at the destination is important to some respondents, the main factors related to location, tourist attractiveness (tourist attractions, tourist infrastructure) and price still determine the choice of destination. Only 4% of the respondents identified the availability and quality of healthcare services as key factors in their decision-making process. At the same time, 38.6% of the respondents considered the quality and availability of healthcare services when choosing a tourist destination. For longer trips, the quality and availability of health care at the destination is more important when choosing a destination.Conclusions. Healthcare facilities are part of the associated infrastructure in tourism. This type of infrastructure primarily serves the local population, but also conditions the proper organization and management of tourism at the destination. In addition, in the situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of health care in tourist destinations has increased. This also requires increased efforts toward ensuring access to medical services as well as information about them in tourist destinations. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Tendon and ligament injuries affect people of all ages, including professional athletes. Tumor Growth Factor β (TGF- β) isoforms play a significant role in the regeneration of tendons and ligaments, such as through the recruitment of macrophages and fibroblasts or the regulation of the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Although the TGF- β family regulates signalling pathways related to the healing process, excessive TGF- β activation can lead to fibrosis and the formation of scars and adhesions. This article recapped the significance of TGF- β isoforms TGF- β1, TGF- β2, and TGF- β3 in the physiological healing of injured tendons and ligaments.Material and Methods. A total of 1434 articles were identified using the PubMed search string (TGF-β isoforms or TGF-β1 or tgfb1 or TGF-β2 or tgfb2 or TGF-β3 or tgfb3) and (tendon or ligament). Human studies, animal models and in vitro cultures were included in the search. Forty-nine published articles were included.Results. Histologic evidence demonstrated greater ligament and tendon regeneration and collagen type I expression when using TGF-β1, often leading to fibrosis. TGF-β3 inhibits the TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 by switching Smad2/3 signaling to Smad7 and CREB-1 transcription factor. There was a delay in TGF-β3 level peak compared to other isoforms.Conclusions. All 3 TGF-β isoforms seem to play a significant role in the subsequent stages of healing. We state a hypothesis that during the initial phase of tendon and ligament healing, TGF-β1 levels need to be elevated. Further, TGF-β3 may inhibit the action of TGF-β1 and TGF-β2, which leads to the inhibition of inflammation and changes in ECM production, and consequently to a reduction in the level of scarring. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. This study assessed maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), power output and sports performance in mountain bike cyclists applying elements of the polarized training programme (POL)Material and Methods. Seven cyclists participated in the study. Immediately before the 2-year experiment (T1), and five times during the experiment (T2, T3, T4, T5, T6), incremental and verification tests were performed to assess VO2max, peak aerobic power (Ppeak) and power at the second ventilatory threshold (PVT2). During the experiment, sports performance in mountain bike cyclists at National Championships, European Championships, World Championships, and World Cup were analyzed. The cyclists performed POL for seven months in each year of the experiment. POL included sprint interval training, high-intensity interval training, and low-intensity endurance training.Results. In the group of cyclists VO2max [l∙min−1] increased in T6 (4.14 ± 1.13) compared to T1 (3.74 ± 0.95), Ppeak [W] increased in T4, T5 and T6 (353 ± 78.45; 350.14 ± 87.96; 360.23 ± 93.83; respectively) compared to T1 (324.14 ± 90.24), and PVT2 [W] increased in T3, T4, T5 and T6 (265.57 ± 80.66; 267.29 ± 63.74; 266.43 ± 69.29; 276.71 ± 78.99; respectively) compared to T1 (229.29 ± 62.91). Cyclists’ sports performance improved during the experiment, and one of them won bronze medal at the World Championships.Conclusions. During the biseasonal experiment using elements of the polarized training programme, improvements in VO2max, Ppeak and PVT2 were observed in cyclists, which was accompanied by better sports performance in cycling races. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Response time is a crucial factor influencing performance effectiveness in wrestling. A short time of response enables athletes to engage in more effective technical and tactical actions. Despite numerous scientific studies on psychomotor abilities in combat sports, there is a lack of scientific reports on women’s wrestling, especially at the highest level of performance. The aim of this study was to determine the response time of female wrestlers with different levels of sports advancement and weight classes.Material and Methods. Female wrestlers aged 19.08 ± 0.86 years with a training experience of 7.03 ± 1.33 years participated in the study, along with women not involved in sports training, aged 19.23 ± 0.70 years. Due to body weight, athletes were divided into two groups: lightweight and heavyweight, and based on sports achievements into medalists and non-medalist participants in the Polish Championships. Response time (including reaction time and movement time) was assessed.Results. The research results revealed differences in response time between wrestlers and untrained women. Wrestlers exhibited shorter response times in both reaction time and movement time. No significant differences in response time were noted between wrestlers based on weight class and sports result.Conclusions. Specialized wrestling training improves the response time of women, both in sensory and motor aspects. Body weight and sports results do not differentiate athletes based on response time. Further research should focus on determining different types of response time, including choice reaction, and their changes under the influence of training and competitive loads in wrestlers with varying levels of sports expertise. Additionally, effective training methods for improving reaction time should be explored. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The impact of mobile applications on the physical activity of Tourism and Recreation students in Krakow has not been the subject of in-depth research so far. The aim of this study is to identify the areas of management, scope of use and motivation for using mobile applications during physical activity by students of Tourism and Recreation. The theoretical framework for motivation analysis is the Achievement Goal Theory.Material and methods. A quantitative approach was adopted, surveys were conducted among students of Tourism and Recreation in Krakow. The basic parameters of descriptive statistics, coefficient of variation V, and correlation coefficients were calculated.Results. Students of Tourism and Recreation use mobile applications while running, cycling and aerobics. The most important functionalities for students are those that support processes of controlling the performance of their physical activity. The results show that, with regard to the Achievement Goal Theory, stronger motivation comes from aspects falling into the Goal category.Conclusions. In the theoretical aspect, the results deepened the understanding of the processes of individual management of students’ physical activity; in the methodological aspect, they allowed the researchers to conclude that the Achievement Goal Theory is suitable for analysing the motivation to use mobile applications during physical activity, while in the practical aspect, the results indicated the possibility of improving the quality of students’ physical activity through individual management with the efficient use of mobile applications. PubDate: Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. In Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ), match durations are determined by belt rank according to the rules. However, a detailed understanding of the dynamics in female matches across belt levels is lacking. Gaining this insight could refine training, better meeting the needs of female athletes at each progression stage. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a comparative time-motion analysis of combat phases among elite female practitioners across different belt ranks.Material and Methods. The sample was composed of White (n = 60), Blue (n = 150), Purple (n = 108), Brown (n = 56), and Black (n = 48) belts. All combats were analyzed using a BJJ time-motion protocol according to the sequential actions of the combats (i.e., approach, gripping, attack, defense, transition, guard, mount, side control, low-intensity movements, and total time), p ≤ 0.05.Results. The main results indicated longer time in the black belt division vs. white and blue belts in low-intensity movements [170(63;311.6) s vs. 75.1(39.7; 201.9)s, and 93.1 (34.2; 168.7)s], defensive actions [31(10.2;76.6)s vs. 12.2(50.5; 22.4)s, and 22.4(11; 49.4)s], and approach actions [9.1(5.5;23.3)s vs. 5.2(2.5; 9.9)s, and 4.8(1; 12)s], respectively.Conclusions. No effects were observed in combat-determining domain actions such as gripping, transition actions, side control, and mount, even with differences in the rules, suggesting a progressive reduction in intensity accompanying the increase in total combat time as the rank in BJJ increases. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Along with the progress of civilization, we observe changes in the growth environment of children and youth. Lifestyle changes translate into the morphofunctional development of adolescents. The aim of the study was to show the influence of underweight and overweight on gross motor skills and physical fitness.Material and methods. A total of 435 five-year-old children participated in the study. Body height and weight were measured. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The research material was divided into three groups: underweight, with normal BMI, and overweight. The Test of Gross Motor Development TGMD II was used to assess motor skills. Fitness was assessed with the Sekita physical fitness test for preschoolers. For all test samples, arithmetic means and standard deviation were calculated. The statistical significance of differences between the groups taking into account the size of BMI was assessed using ANOVA and the Newmann-Keuls test. Moreover, the percentage of underweight and overweight girls and boys as well as those with normal BMI was estimated. Sexual dimorphism between the groups was calculated using the χ2 test.Results. There were no statistically significant differences in the locomotor skills and the ability to handle sports equipment in 5-year-olds with different BMI. On the other hand, a trend of better motor skills was observed in children with normal BMI compared to their underweight and overweight peers. Such significant correlations were not found in motor skills.Conclusions. It can be assumed that the 5th year of life is still too early a period in ontogenesis to search for significant correlations between motor skills, physical fitness, and body build. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. There is a discourse in the international literature regarding the impact of large sporting events on the place where they are held. In the last few years, particular emphasis has been laid on intangible effects, including social impacts that may occur not only in the case of mega sporting events but also in smaller sporting events. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to estimate the monetary value of intangible social benefits of differently sized sporting events held in two sporting arenas in Gdańsk, Poland, using the contingent valuation method.Material and methods. The research concerns four sporting events of various sizes organised in Gdańsk in 2012-2023. In each case, a hypothetical event scenario was used to determine the willingness to pay among the surveyed inhabitants of Gdańsk. A tobit model was used to determine the statistical relationship between the proposed monetary offers and social impacts.Results. It was found that sporting events, regardless of their size, determine the occurrence of social impacts among host city residents. Even though aggregated values are lower in the case of smaller events, when added together, they constitute a higher percentage of actual public expenditure incurred on the construction of sports facilities.Conclusions. By valuing intangible effects, it is possible, at least partially, to justify the spending of public funds for the organisation of sporting events. At the same time, smaller sporting events have more significant potential for host city residents than mega sporting events. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Fighting effectiveness of combat sports athletes depends, among other factors, on response time. Athletes must react swiftly to various actions of their opponents during the combat. Understanding the determinants of response time can provide valuable insights and optimize the sports training process. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of Led Lighting Training (LLT) on response time of athletes representing extremely different combat sports.Material and Methods. Elite taekwon-do athletes aged 26.67 ± 7.79 years with training experience of 13.67 ± 6.75 years, and elite wrestlers aged 26.0 ± 3.74 years with training experience of 13.0 ± 3.74 years, participated in the study. Each participant performed a 6-minute physical exertion requiring concentration and proper decision-making as part of LLT. It consisted of three two-minute motor tasks performed on Batak Lite. Response time was recorded during the exercise, with one-minute breaks between motor tasks.Results. Among taekwon-do athletes, the lowest level of response was noted during the first LLT task, whereas the highest was observed in the third task. Response time significantly improved with time of exertion among taekwon-do athletes, while it remained similar among wrestlers after 2, 4, and 6 minutes of the test. Only in the first round did taekwon-do athletes and wrestlers significantly differ in response time (p = 0.0025). Response time and training experience did not reveal a significant correlation.Conclusions. The specificity of training, which is determined by the specificity of combat, does not differentiate elite taekwon-do athletes and wrestlers based on their response abilities. Taekwon-do athletes should control the type and duration of warm-up exercises before combat. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. With the evolution of sport, the level of athletes is increasing. To be able to win it is necessary to understand what factors influence performance in competition and training. Sports performance analysis has evolved in accordance with data collection in competition practice, with performance indicators related to actions connected to performance outcome.Material and Methods. We intend to verify the importance of task analysis in the performance analysis procedures. The review starts with task definition, then task analysis procedures and sports science application to finish with examples of performance analysis with task analysis.Results. Each task has one or more goals with actions to be carried out and with task, performer, and environment constraints that influence it. Task analysis is a methodology to have information about technique, productivity and safety that allows developing training programmes. Sports task analysis has a preparatory phase, a description (phase analysis), assessment, and an intervention. Performance analysis was based on biomechanical and notational analysis including performance indicators and afterwards reinforced with the ecological dynamics approach with an emphasis on the performer-environment relationship. Similarities between actions from different sports could be observed with performance analysis using task analysis (phase analysis with description of the segmental actions and mechanical principles).Conclusions. Performance task analysis could support evidence-based training programmes with a replication of key features and performance indicators in dry-land training tasks. Future research should identify task constraints and performance indicators with technological devices and make performance analysis more coach friendly. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Collaborative Learning (CL) is a group learning method that involves mutual support and assistance among individual students to achieve learning goals. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a 14-week Physical Education (PE) class using the CL method in enhancing the physical development of 11th-grade students.Material and Methods. Eighty healthy students were randomly selected and divided into two groups: the experimental group with 40 students applying the CL method in PE classes, and the control group with 40 students studying PE using conventional methods. In this study, five fitness tests were used such as a 30-s sit-up test, a 30-m sprint test, a 4 × 10-m shuttle run test, a standing long jump test, and a 5-min running field test.Results. After 14 weeks of experimentation, independent t-test results indicated a significant difference in the mean values between the experimental and control groups at the threshold of p < 0.05. Paired t-test results for the mean values before and after the experiment in both groups also showed a difference, with the physical fitness growth rate of the experimental group being higher than that of the control group. Particularly, the control group exhibited a post-experiment value that had a negative significance.Conclusions. This demonstrates that the experimental results serve as an illustration, confirming the effectiveness of the CL method in high school PE classes. Teachers should enhance the use of CL in the future to achieve higher learning goals. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The primary purpose of the present study was to investigate whether providing knowledge of results (KR) on more accurate trials enhanced motivation and self-confidence or whether providing KR on less accurate trials reduced those variables. We also investigated whether anxiety was affected by the provision of feedback.Material and Methods. Participants performed a volleyball serve over four days of practice under one of two conditions: After each block of six trials, one group received feedback on the three most accurate (MA) trials, whereas the other group received feedback on the three least accurate (LA) trials. One week following practice, participants performed a retention test without feedback. Participants also completed the intrinsic motivation inventory (IMI) and the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI2).Results. Results indicated that the MA group had more effective learning as well as higher motivation and self-confidence scores than the LA group. Additionally, the MA group had lower scores on cognitive and somatic anxiety compared to the LA group. The MA group had higher motivation and self-confidence scores and lower anxiety compared to the values reported on the pre-test. Conversely, the LA group had lower motivation and self-confidence scores relative to the pre-test values, and tended to have increased cognitive and somatic anxiety following practice.Conclusions. The results of this study demonstrate that providing augmented feedback about more accurate trials facilitates motor learning and increases motivation and self-confidence whilst lowering levels of somatic anxiety. PubDate: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Low physical activity, transition to retirement and unfavorable socio-economic changes may significantly reduce the quality of life of older people. The increasing average life expectancy of the population requires measures intended to promote physical activity among the elderly in order to improve their quality of life. The aim of the research was to determine the relationship between exercise intensity and the quality of life in U3A students over 60 years of age.Material and methods. A diagnostic survey was applied in the research. The following research tools were used: WHOQOL-BREF Questionnaire to assess the quality of life, Minnesota Questionnaire (MLTPAQ) to test the intensity level of physical activity, and the authors’ own questionnaire. The study involved 673 individuals over 60 years of age from the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Region in Poland.Results. People who took low-intensity exercise more often were more satisfied with life and health. Likewise, they had higher quality of life assessments in the physical, psychological and environmental context in comparison with those who were not sporty. Individuals who went in for moderate physical effort more often assessed their quality of life better in the social area. Respondents who engaged in intense physical activities valued the quality of life in physical, psychological and environmental domains higher.Conclusions. The positive influence of regular exercise on the quality of life requires further promotion of this activity, health education, and extension, diversification and adjustment of the offer of sports activities to the needs and capabilities of the elderly. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. In general, during the theoretical content taught in different educational stages, students are seated for several hours and expository methods are used by the teacher. Under these conditions, emotions such as anxiety, boredom and loss of attention may appear. To improve this situation, several studies have shown that active breaks (AB) in class are a good option. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate the effect of AB with dance in the classroom on the emotional state and attention level of university students.Material and methods. A crossover design was employed where the type of rest (active vs. passive) was compared in two class groups for a total of 68 students (age 20.7 ± 1.7 years, 50% female). The variables studied were the level of attention and emotional state, assessed using the d2 test and the mood rating scale (EVEA). A multilevel linear model was applied and Cohen’s d was calculated for the statistical analysis.Results. Although there was an improvement in the level of attention with the implementation of AB with dance (p > 0.05, d = 0.15-0.28), this was not significant. In the emotional state, a decrease in the level of sadness was found (p > 0.05; d = - 0.16) without statistical significance.Conclusions. The application of AB with dance in the classroom provides a way to increase students’ physical activity levels without negatively affecting the level of attention. Further studies with theoretical classes of longer duration and in a longer intervention period could provide new data on the benefits of AB with dance. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. Patellar instability in younger patients is a common injury (3.3% of all knee injury episodes) and the most frequent dislocation of the knee observed. The sensitivity and reliability of clinical diagnostic tests after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction remain unclear and biased. The primary aim of the present study was thus to detect, using wavelet analysis, differences in the rearfoot loading of the operated limb of patients after MPFL reconstruction. The authors hypothesised that applying this specific examination technique would allow for more accurate and less biased clinical results evaluation.Material and Methods. The study involved a group of 15 female subjects (age: 22.8 ± 6.3 years; weight: 58.5 ± 5.1 kg) after MPFL reconstruction and a control group of 29 healthy females (23.2 ± 2.8 years; 61.1 ± 7.7 kg). The subjects performed a 30-second classic Romberg test on a treadmill (Noraxon FDN-T) equipped with a matrix of baroresistive sensors to measure ground reaction forces. Time-frequency analysis of the signal originating from the treadmill was done using an analytic Morse wavelet.Results. The results indicate differences in visual control and vestibular stability in patients before and 3 months after a surgery. They are characterised by a deficit of energy attributed to visual control in favour of an excess of energy associated with vestibular control. Patellar instability patients show greater energy expenditure to maintain body balance for at least 6 months after MPFL reconstruction.Conclusions. Patellar instability patients have increased vestibular control while maintaining balance. Our results suggest an extended rehabilitation period for patients after MPFL reconstruction beyond 6 months. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of bouldering on upper and lower limb muscle strength and body balance.Material and Methods. The study group consisted of 22 climbers (aged 27.23 ± 4.81) with at least 2 years of bouldering experience, while the control group consisted of 20 men (aged 23.10 ± 5.28) not practicing rock climbing. The study received approval from the local bioethical commission in Poland. Static and dynamic stabilographic parameters were measured with eyes open (EO) and closed (EC) on the Biodex Balance System SD USA (BBS) platform. Subsequently, the maximum muscle torques of the elbow, hip, knee and ankle joints were measured in isometric conditions. Hand-grip strength (HGS) with and without the thumb was assessed using a handheld dynamometer.Results. Climbers achieved significantly higher values of HGS with the thumb of both hands (p < 0.005), foot extensors strength (FES) in both limbs (p < 0.05) and left hip extensors (HES L) (p < 0.05). They also achieved significantly lower values of all stabilographic parameters, indicating better balance compared to the control group (p < 0.05). An interaction of HES x SIDE across the groups was observed (F(1,40) = 13.588, p < 0.001 η2 = 0.254). Moreover, there was a statistically significant negative correlation of ankle extensors strength with medial-lateral stability index (MLSI EC) (right: r = -0.418; left: r = -0.331) and fall risk index (FRI6-2) (right: r = -0.520; left: r = -0.435).Conclusions. Regular climbing training develops muscle strength, especially FES, HES, HGS, and improves balance. Climbing can be used for prevention of muscle weakness and equilibrium disorders. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effect of ashwagandha supplementation on the body composition, blood health and recovery indices, as well as the safety of ashwagandha supplementation in wrestling.Material and Methods. To investigate this, body composition (using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; DEXA) and blood parameters as indicators of athletes’ health status (i.e., hematology, liver, kidney and muscle tissue function, lipid profile) were measured before and after 8-week supplementation with ashwagandha extract (600 mg/day) in professional national team wrestlers following an intensive training plan (as part of an annual training cycle).Results. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in fat-free mass and muscle mass, with a significant decrease in fat mass (both in absolute and relative terms) in both ashwagandha and placebo groups (main effect of time, p < 0.05). However, ashwagandha supplementation did not affect any of the body composition parameters (main effect of group or interaction of time and group, p > 0.05). Moreover, intense wrestling training induced an increase in blood creatine kinase activity as an indicator of muscle tissue damage (main effect of time, p < 0.05). Ashwagandha supplementation did not significantly affect any hematological or biochemical blood parameters (p > 0.05 for main effect of group and interaction of time and group). However, the increase in creatine kinase activity during the study seemed to be more pronounced in the placebo group (post-hoc; p < 0.05) than in the ashwagandha group (post-hoc; p > 0.05).Conclusions. In conclusion, ashwagandha supplementation at 600 mg daily for 8 weeks is well tolerated and safe for professional wrestlers. This strategy does not appear to offer additional body composition benefits beyond the effect of intense wrestling training. On the other hand, our results indicate some potential for ashwagandha in improving muscle tissue recovery, which needs to be confirmed on a larger population of athletes. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Introduction. The article aims to analyse the current state of knowledge about mountaineering in the Himalayas through a systematic literature review.Material and Methods. For this purpose, the following research questions were formulated: Which journals publish the most studies concerning the Himalayas and which authors make significant contributors to this area of research' What are the dominant research themes, and how have they changed over the years' What factors contribute to success and deaths in Himalayan mountaineering' The study is based on a mapping review of publications from the Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO and Google Scholar databases with research profiling and co-word analysis using VOSviewer. In total, 189 articles selected for review were subjected to automatic content analysis (text mining, clustering) in the VOSviewer program to produce a self-organising map of keywords, grouped into four thematic areas: (1) tourism management, geo-ecology and local community; (2) psychology, anthropology and risk of high altitude physical activity; (3) acclimatisation, hypoxia pathophysiology; and (4) altitude and acute disease, brain and pulmonary oedema.Results. In the qualitative phase of the analysis, success and failure factors in Himalayan mountaineering were identified. It can be concluded that it is becoming safer and more common for climbers to reach the summit and such achievements are more accessible to women and older people.Conclusions. Safety increases can be attributed to the obligatory use of oxygen by mountain guides, better infrastructure on the trail (two-way system of lifelines), more reliable weather forecasts, and the assistance of experienced leaders. PubDate: Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
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