This study aimed to determine the effect of complex training (CT) on post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) effect magnitude, 5- and 30-m linear sprint, 5-0-5 change-of-direction (COD), back squat (BS) and hip thrust (HT) one-repetition maximum [1RM], and jumping performance (countermovement jump [CMJ], drop jump [DJ], and broad jump [BJ]). The PAPE effect was elicited before and after each intervention by 3 BS repetitions at 90% 1RM and verified by CMJ performance. Twenty-four soccer players were randomly and equally assigned to 6 weeks of either medium (MED; [65-70%1RM]) or high-intensity (HIGH; [80-85%1RM]) CT performed twice a week. The HIGH group significantly improved their 5-m time (p < 0.001; effect size [ES] = 1.91), 30-m time (p = 0.001; ES = 0.66), BS 1RM (p = 0.019; ES = 0.19) and HT 1RM (p = 0.035; ES = 0.26), BJ length (p = 0.012; ES = 0.62) and DJ height (p = 0.002; ES = 0.57) from pre- to post-intervention. The MED group significantly improved their 5-m time (p = 0.004; ES = 0.52), BS 1RM (p = 0.019; ES = 0.36) and BJ length (p = 0.012; ES = 0.7). Significantly shorter 5-m sprint time (p = 0.001; ES = 1.63) and greater DJ height percentage increase (p < 0.001; ES = 1.81) were found in the HIGH group compared to the MED group. Moreover, a significant main effect of the group, indicating a higher PAPE response in the MED group compared to the HIGH group for CMJ peak power output, was observed at both pre- and post-CT intervention (p = 0.045; η2 = 0.171). Six weeks of either medium or high-intensity CT could be used to enhance jumping performance, linear speed and lower-body maximum strength among soccer players. Superior improvements in acceleration and DJ might be expected after high-intensity CT than medium intensity. Medium-intensity CT can improve PAPE response.

• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH

This study aimed to investigate the effects of performing either eccentric-only (ECC) or eccentric-concentric (ECC-CON) back squats (BS) with a supramaximal load on countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. Changes in front thigh skin surface temperature and mechanical properties (oscillation frequency and stiffness) of the vastus lateralis were also examined. Fourteen male powerlifters participated in this study (age: 22.5 ± 2.3 years, body weight: 84.2 ± 11.1 kg, height: 178 ± 7 cm, training experience: 5.4 ± 1.6 years, BS one-repetition maximum [1RM]: 177 ± 22.8 kg). The experimental sessions included 2 sets of 2 BS at 110% 1RM of either ECC-CON (load distributed by half on the barbell [55%] and on weight releasers [55%]) or ECC (only eccentric phase of BS) and CTRL with no CA applied. CMJ performance, mechanical properties, and skin surface temperature were measured before and at the third, sixth, ninth, and 12th min. After each protocol, only the ECC-CON condition led to a significant increase in CMJ height after individual optimal rest time compared to pre-CA (38.1 ± 5.2 vs. 39.8 ± 5.0 cm; p = 0.003; effect size [ES] = 0.32; Δ = 4.9 ± 5.0%) with a significant rise in skin surface temperature (32.98 ± 1.24 vs. 33.69 ± 0.96°C; p = 0.006; ES = 0.62; Δ = 2.2 ± 2.6%) and no significant changes in mechanical properties of the vastus lateralis. The ECC-CON condition led to a significant acute improvement in CMJ height and an increase in front thigh skin surface temperature among powerlifters. The ECC-CON supramaximal lower limb PAPE protocol should be effectively used among males representing high levels of lower limb muscle strength (>2 × body mass).

• MeSH
• Biomechanical Phenomena MeSH
• Quadriceps Muscle physiology   MeSH
• Adult MeSH
• Muscle, Skeletal physiology   MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Resistance Training MeSH
• Athletic Performance * physiology   MeSH
• Thigh physiology   MeSH
• Muscle Strength physiology   MeSH
• Skin Temperature * physiology   MeSH
• Weight Lifting * physiology   MeSH
• Check Tag
• Adult MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Male MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH

The majority of motor tasks in sports are executed unilaterally, however research on the impact of unilateral conditioning activities (CAs) on both unilateral and bilateral sports tasks remains limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of isometric and plyometric unilateral CAs on unilateral and bilateral jumping performance. The study involved fifteen resistance-trained males who participated in three experimental sessions: 3 sets of 3 s of maximum isometric single-leg quarter-squats or 3 sets of 5 single-leg tuck jumps as CAs, along with a control condition without CA. Measurements of single-leg jump (SLJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) were taken 5 min before, and at approximately the 3th, 6th and 9th minute after the CA. The analysis did not show any statistically significant interactions nor a main effect of condition or time (p > 0.05) for CMJ height and relative peak power. However, a main effect of time (p = 0.02) to increase non-dominant SLJ height from baseline to best post-CA time-point was found (+ 0.8 ± 2.5 cm; Cohen's d = 0.22). Neither isometric nor plyometric CAs significantly affected CMJ and SLJ performance. The observed increase in jump height for the non-dominant leg is likely due to motor learning rather than the effects of the applied CAs.

• MeSH
• Adult MeSH
• Muscle, Skeletal physiology   MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Resistance Training methods   MeSH
• Plyometric Exercise MeSH
• Athletic Performance physiology   MeSH
• Muscle Strength * physiology   MeSH
• Check Tag
• Adult MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Male MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH

Background/Objectives: Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) has been explored for its potential to improve general performance in combat sports. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of PAPE protocols on physical performance, focusing on differences across disciplines, competitive levels, and testing methods. Methods: A PRISMA-guided search (2010-2023) identified 19 studies examining PAPE protocols in combat sports athletes. The inclusion criteria required human trials using defined PAPE protocols, with outcomes of general performance indicators such as countermovement jumps (CMJs). A meta-analysis was conducted on data from 866 athletes using random effects modeling. Results: The PAPE protocols yielded a pooled effect size of 0.136 (95% CI, 0.008-0.263) across 866 athletes. Taekwondo athletes exhibited the most pronounced improvements in CMJ performance, particularly when using protocols that combined repeated vertical jumps with heavy-resistance cluster sets, and with dynamic, sport-specific movements such as the bandal chagui protocol achieving an effect size of 1.19 (p < 0.001). Conversely, Muay Thai athletes experienced performance declines when the protocols incorporated highly specific techniques, such as roundhouse kicks (ES = -1.36, p = 0.009). Analysis by competitive level revealed pooled effect sizes of 0.14 (95% CI, -0.01 to 0.29) for amateur athletes and 0.13 (95% CI, -0.11 to 0.38) for elite athletes, with no statistically significant differences observed between these groups. Conclusions: PAPE's effectiveness depends on tailoring protocols to the competitive level and discipline. Short rest intervals support plyometric protocols for amateurs, while heavy-resistance exercises enhance elite performers. Further research is needed to standardize PAPE protocols and explore discipline-specific adaptations.

• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH
• Review MeSH

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to assess the acute effects of overcoming isometric split squats on subsequent single-leg drop jump (DJ) performance and the contralateral effect in volleyball players, considering training status differences. METHODS: Ten male elite (ELI) and ten amateur (AMA) volleyball players took part in two experimental sessions in which they performed conditioning activity (CA) consisted of 3 sets of overcoming isometric 3-second split squats, differing in the limb used: dominant (DL) or non-dominant (ND-L). Single-leg DJ was performed before and at the 4th and 8th minute post-CA for both limbs. The best post-CA attempt in terms of jump height (JH) was analyzed. RESULTS: Results revealed a significant increase in jump height (JH) in the non-dominant limb (ND-L) from 13.7 ± 2.6 cm to 15.5 ± 2.7 cm after CA performed by the ND-L (p = 0.001; Hedge's g = 0.65). Similarly, the reactive strength index (RSI) of the ND-L improved from 0.40 ± 0.06 to 0.45 ± 0.08 (p = 0.008; g = 0.58). Additionally, contact time in the ND-L increased significantly from 342 ± 36 ms to 375 ± 42 ms after CA performed by the dominant limb (p = 0.001; g = 0.66). In the elite (ELI) group, JH significantly increased from 16.4 ± 2.4 cm to 18.3 ± 3.3 cm (p < 0.001; g = 0.79), while RSI in the dominant limb (DL) improved from 0.47 ± 0.06 to 0.53 ± 0.07 (p = 0.011; g = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that the examined CA effectively induces the post-activation performance enhancement in DJ among elite volleyball players, with a predominantly local impact on the limb executing the CA. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06459050 (Retrospectively registered).

• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH

INTRODUCTION: Despite the widespread use of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, 2nd edition (MABC-2), little is known about the sensitivity or specificity of the individual items to detect probable Developmental Coordination Disorder (p-DCD). This study examined which specific MABC-2 items were most sensitive to identify children with p-DCD and which items would predict p-DCD. METHODS: Based on a large dataset including European and African children aged 3-16 years (n = 4916, typically developing (TD, 49.6 % boys); n = 822 p-DCD (53.1 % boys), Hedges' g was calculated to establish the standardized mean difference (SMD) between p-DCD/TD. SMDs were considered substantial when absolute values at or above 1.4. Sensitivity and specificity of the raw MABC-2 item scores predicting p-DCD/TD per age band (AB) were established with logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: AB1: Children with p-DCD performed substantially poorer on threading beads (SMD: -1.61) and jumping on mats (SMD: 1.61). By combining all items and the country of origin, the sensitivity was 61.7 % and specificity 98.6 %. AB2: Walking heel-to-toe forwards (SMD: 1.65) was substantially poorer in p-DCD. By combining all items and the country of origin, the sensitivity was 79.0 % and specificity 97.6 %. AB3: Catching a ball with the preferred (SMD: 1.8) or non-preferred (SMD: 1.61) hand, and for walking heel-to-toe backwards (SMD: 1.78) were substantially poorer in p-DCD. All items combined resulted in a sensitivity of 94.4 % and specificity of 99.6 %. CONCLUSION: Not all MABC-2 items are equally sensitive to distinguish between performances of p-DCD and TD. Despite the good specificity, the sensitivity was only moderate in AB1-2, the age at which children learn culturally influenced motor skills.

• MeSH
• Child MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Logistic Models MeSH
• Adolescent MeSH
• Motor Skills MeSH
• Movement MeSH
• Motor Skills Disorders * diagnosis   MeSH
• Child, Preschool MeSH
• Sensitivity and Specificity * MeSH
• Check Tag
• Child MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Adolescent MeSH
• Male MeSH
• Child, Preschool MeSH
• Female MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH
• Geographicals
• Africa MeSH
• Europe MeSH

In dynamic environments, a central task of the attentional system is to keep track of objects changing their spatial location over time. In some instances, it is sufficient to track only the spatial locations of moving objects (i.e., multiple object tracking; MOT). In other instances, however, it is also important to maintain distinct identities of moving objects (i.e., multiple identity tracking; MIT). Despite previous research, it is not clear whether MOT and MIT performance emerge from the same tracking mechanism. In the present report, we study gaze coherence (i.e., the extent to which participants repeat their gaze behaviour when tracking the same object locations twice) across repeated MOT and MIT trials. We observed more substantial gaze coherence in repeated MOT trials compared to the repeated MIT trials or mixed MOT-MIT trial pairs. A subsequent simulation study suggests that MOT is based more on a grouping mechanism than MIT, whereas MIT is based more on a target-jumping mechanism than MOT. It thus appears unlikely that MOT and MIT emerge from the same basic tracking mechanism.

• MeSH
• Adult MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Fixation, Ocular physiology   MeSH
• Attention * physiology   MeSH
• Motion Perception * physiology   MeSH
• Space Perception physiology   MeSH
• Check Tag
• Adult MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Male MeSH
• Female MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH

Relationship of bioelectrical properties of human body and vertical jump performance is still unexplored, especially in non-athletic population. The aim of this study is to evaluate association of bioelectrical impedance results with mean force and power of the lower limbs in non-athletic young adults, and to evaluate differences between sexes in both bioelectrical impedance results and vertical jump performance. The cross-sectional study included 75 healthy non-athletic college students (40 women and 35 men aged 19-24 years). Whole-body bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed for phase angle and body composition. Force and power of lower limbs were assessed by vertical jump test. There is difference between sexes in both body composition and vertical jump performance. Along to higher content of muscles (47.5% vs 40.5%) and lower content of fat in the body (19.25% vs 28.19%), men also had higher mean force (3691.75 N vs 2351.44 N) and explosive power of the lower limbs (5627.19 W vs 2752.21 W) compared to women. Leg force and power are in correlation with body composition and with phase angle obtained by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Difference between sexes in force and power of the legs persists even after adjustment for body composition.

PURPOSE: High jump, a complex athletic activity, involves distinct phases crucial for success, notably the take-off phase. While previous studies explored kinematic parameters' influence on high jump success, none investigated their fatigue-induced changes. This pilot study aimed to explore fatigue's impact on kinematic parameters in high jump performance. METHODS: A prominent Croatian junior high jumper underwent rested and fatigued jumping sessions. Internal fatigue was assessed via the Wellness questionnaire and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). External fatigue parameters were assessed through bilateral and unilateral Countermovement Jump (CMJ) height using Gyko and Optogait devices. Kinematic parameters were recorded via Logitech C920 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro cameras, including contact time, take-off place, knee and body angles. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed in knee angle touchdown (p=0,01), knee angle take-off (p=0,05), body angle touchdown (p=0,01), body angle take-off (p=0,03), knee amortization start (p=0,05), and knee amortization (p=0,01). CONCLUSION: Fatigue significantly impacts kinematic parameters in high jump, particularly affecting body inclination during take-off, knee angles, and knee amortization. Coaches should consider fatigue when planning training and competition schedules for optimal performance. Maintaining rested conditions is crucial, and targeted training can enhance muscle groups affected by fatigue during specific jump phases.

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of attentional focus instructions on acute changes in the transverse relaxation time (T2) of the femorotibial cartilage and in cartilage volume during repeated drop-jump landings. Ten healthy females (Mage = 20.4 ± 0.8 years) performed a drop landing task from a 50 cm high box over the course of 3 days (50 repetitions each day) across three attentional focus conditions: external focus (EF: focus on landing as soft as possible), internal focus (IF: focus on bending your knees when you land), and control (CON: no-focus instruction), which was counterbalanced across focus conditions. T2 mapping and the volume of femorotibial cartilage were determined from magnetic resonance imaging scans at 1.5 T for the dominant knee before and after completing the drop landings in each attentional focus condition per day. Results indicated a smaller change in cartilage T2 relaxation time and volumetry in the central load-bearing lateral cartilage under the EF, compared to IF and CON. Moreover, the change in T2 and cartilage volume was greater for lateral tibial cartilage as compared to femoral cartilage and was independent of attentional focus instructions. No significant acute quantitative changes were observed in the medial compartment. The peak vertical ground reaction force was found to be the lowest under the EF, compared to IF and CON. These findings suggest that external focus of attention may reduce cartilage load, potentially aiding in the control or management of cartilage injuries during landing in female athletes.

• MeSH
• Biomechanical Phenomena MeSH
• Cartilage, Articular * physiology   diagnostic imaging   MeSH
• Knee Joint physiology   MeSH
• Humans MeSH
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging * MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Plyometric Exercise MeSH
• Attention * physiology   MeSH
• Tibia physiology   diagnostic imaging   MeSH
• Weight-Bearing * physiology   MeSH
• Check Tag
• Humans MeSH
• Young Adult MeSH
• Female MeSH
• Publication type
• Journal Article MeSH