The first purpose of this study was to determine whether the peak velocity (V Yo-Yo) achieved dur... more The first purpose of this study was to determine whether the peak velocity (V Yo-Yo) achieved during the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (Yo-Yo) and the maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) determined from the Université de Montréal Track Test (UMTT) could be used interchangeably. The second purpose was to check that the V Yo-Yo is related to the intermittent exercise performance, which consisted of repeated 90 m distance runs in 15 s performed until exhaustion, alternated with 15 s of passive recovery (15/15). Fourteen amateur soccer players performed, in a random order, the 15/15 and two incremental field-tests: the Yo-Yo and the UMTT. The results of this study showed that MAV was significantly correlated to the V Yo-Yo (r = 0.79, p < 0.01). However, the error was not constant, when the V Yo-Yo and the MAV values were higher than 16.3 km h −1 , the MAV values tends to be higher than the V Yo-Yo , while when the V Yo-Yo and the MAV values were lower than 16.3 km h −1 , the MAV values tends to be lower than the V Yo-Yo. MAV and V Yo-Yo were significantly correlated to the time to exhaustion of the 15/15 (r = 0.74 and r = 0.72, respectively) and show that both tests are similarly related to the high-intensity intermittent exercise performance.
Background: Skeletal muscle contractions due to exercise lead to the secretion of many proteins a... more Background: Skeletal muscle contractions due to exercise lead to the secretion of many proteins and proteoglycan peptides called myokines. Myostatin (MSTN) and MyoGenin (MyoG) are two of the most important skeletal muscle growth regulatory factors related to myoblast differentiation and muscle hypertrophy. The present study aims at investigating the effects over eight weeks of high-intensity circuit training (HICT) on serum MyoG and MSTN in male soccer players. Method: The present study is a quasi-experimental study on 21 male soccer players (Experimental group: n=11, Control group: n=10) (ages 15.0±3.4 years, body mass 55.7 ±7.8 kg, height 173.3 ±8.0 cm, Body mass index 18.4 ±1.9 kg.m-2, maximum oxygen uptake 61.89±3.01 ml.kg-1 and the peak height velocity 14.5 ± 0.3 years). Participants were randomly divided into two groups of training group (TG) and a control group (CG). The first resting blood samples were obtained in the morning-fasting state, and the second blood samples were ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Over the years, the foot tapping test protocol has been proposed by scientists to identify the ca... more Over the years, the foot tapping test protocol has been proposed by scientists to identify the capabilities of the lower limb neuromuscular system in the medical context; however, to our knowledge, no studies have established its usefulness and relationship to athletic performance. The aim of the present study was to test the reliability, criterion validity and sensitivity of a new foot tapping (TAP) test, and to examine its relationship with proxies of athletic performance in soccer players. Forty voluntary soccer players of two different levels participated in this study (20 players from the national level: age: 22.6 ± 2.5 years and 20 players from regional level: 25.1 ± 3.6 years). They performed the TAP test on two separate occasions to test its relative and absolute reliability. To examine the criterion validity of the TAP test, all participants performed four types of jumps, sprint tests, agility tests, the Wingate test and the finger tapping test considered a gold standard ta...
Training effects on plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)/cortisol ratio were investigated ... more Training effects on plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)/cortisol ratio were investigated in boxers. Thirty subjects were assigned to either the training or the control group (n = 15 in both). They were tested before the beginning of training (T0), after 5 weeks of intensive training (T1), and after 1 week of tapering (T2). Physical performances (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level-1), training loads, and blood sampling were obtained at T0, T1, and T2. Controls were only tested for biochemical and anthropometric parameters at T0 and T2. A significantly higher physical performance was observed at T2 compared to T1. At T1, cortisol levels were significantly increased whereas IGF-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels remained unchanged compared to baseline. At T2, cortisol levels decreased while IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels increased. The IGF-1/cortisol ratio decreased significantly at T1 and increased at T2, and its variations were significantly cor...
ECLB-COVID19 Consortium INTRODUCTION Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease... more ECLB-COVID19 Consortium INTRODUCTION Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) [1]. The disease was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province, and has since spread globally to affect around 6 million people (as of the 4 th week of May 2020), including nearly 350 000 deaths in more than 220 countries [2]. Due to the consistently growing number of confirmed cases and to avoid overwhelming health systems, WHO and public health authorities around the world have been acting to contain the rapid spread of the COVID-19 outbreak, with primary measures focusing on social distancing, self-isolation, and nationwide lockdowns.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2020
Purpose: To investigate the optimal pretaper duration on match running performance in a professio... more Purpose: To investigate the optimal pretaper duration on match running performance in a professional soccer team. Methods: The training load was monitored during daily training sessions and matches during 2 seasons according to different periodization strategies. Matches’ running distances were collected using match analysis system. The data were analyzed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks of 5 (M5), 4 (M4), and 3 weeks (M3), concludes all of them by 1 taper week. Results: Significant decreases in the training load during the taper weeks compared to standard weeks were observed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks (d ≥ 5; P
BackgroundPublic health recommendations and government measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have... more BackgroundPublic health recommendations and government measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have enforced restrictions on daily living, which may include social distancing, remote work/school, and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to abate the spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on mental health and emotional wellbeing is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched on April 6, 2020 in seven languages to elucidate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on mental health and emotional well-being. This report presents the preliminary results from the first thousand responders on mental wellbeing and mood and feelings questionnaires.MethodsThe ECLB-COVID19 electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists and academics, following a structured review of the literature. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online survey platform. Thirty-five research organizations from Europe, North-Afr...
BackgroundPublic health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic ha... more BackgroundPublic health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have enforced numerous restrictions on daily living including social distancing, isolation and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to mitigate spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on psychosocial health is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched in April 2020 in seven languages to elucidate the behavioral and lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. This report presents the preliminary results from the first thousand responders on social participation and life satisfaction.MethodsThirty-five research organisations from Europe, North-Africa, Western Asia and the Americas promoted the survey through their networks to the general society, in English, German, French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, and Slovenian languages. Questions were presented in a differential format with questions related to responses “before” and “durin...
AimTo develop a 6‐minute walk‐distance (6MWD) reference equation for children and adolescents wit... more AimTo develop a 6‐minute walk‐distance (6MWD) reference equation for children and adolescents with obesity, and to assess its determinant factors.MethodsA cross‐sectional study using mixed linear and multiple regression models was conducted in 497 children (235 girls and 262 boys) aged 6‐18 years with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 97th percentile. Anthropometrics and a 6‐minute walk test (6MWT) were performed.ResultsMean 6MWD was 547 ± 86 m for girls and 575 ± 96 m for boys, which averaged ~80% of a reference normal‐weight population matched for age and ethnicity. Age, weight and BMI were positively correlated with 6MWD whereas waist and hip circumferences (WC and HC, respectively) were negatively correlated with 6MWD for both genders. The combination of age, height, BMI and HC explained 69% of the 6MWD variability in the equation for the whole population. Moreover, the combination of age, height, HC as well as the combination of age, height, BMI and WC explained 67% and 75% ...
International journal of Sport Studies for Health, 2018
Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity and the reliability of a new fitness... more Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity and the reliability of a new fitness intermittent judo test using the basic movement patterns of judo. Methods: Forty-one national level judo male athletes participated in this study. Eighteen judokas performed the intermittent judo fitness test consisting of 10 × 30 s maximal interspersed with 15 second rest, the Australian shuttle test, the special judo fitness test and a judo fight. Twenty three judokas performed twice the intermittent judo fitness test on different days. Results: The results showed significant correlations between the biggest number of Uchi-komi during the intermittent judo fitness test (Uchi-komi best), the longest distance covered during Australian shuttle test and the total projection in the special judo fitness test (P < 0.01). Likewise, a significant relationship was demonstrated between the total Uchi-komi performed in the new judo test (Uchikomi Tot) and both the total distance covered during Australian test and the total projection during the special judo fitness test (P < 0.01). In addition, a significant correlation of the rating of perceived exertion was observed between the intermittent judo fitness test and judo fight (P < 0.05). The intra-class correlation coefficient analysis revealed relatively strong test-retest reliability for Uchikomi best and Uchi-komi Tot (> 0.90). The smallest worthwhile change showed that a change of 2 and 4 Uchi-komi in Uchi-komi best and Uchi-komi Tot respectively is occurred. Conclusions: The new fitness intermittent judo test is both valid and reliable measurement tool to assess judokas' fitness at the basic judo movement patterns.
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intensive effort on egocentric distance per... more The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intensive effort on egocentric distance perception according to different angles of view after sleep deprivation at the beginning (SDB) or at the end (SDE) of the night and after a normal sleep night (NNS). Ten male students soccer players (age 22.8 ± 1.3 years; body mass 72.0 ± 10.4 kg; body height 180.0 ± 3.0 cm) performed a repeated cycling (RS) exercise (10 × 6 s maximal cycling with 24 s in between) after SDB, SDE, and NNS. They were asked to estimate three distances (i.e. 15, 25, and 35 m) before and after RS from different angles of view [i.e. in front (0 •) and in side (45 • left and 45 • right)]. For 35 m, distance estimation was better during NNS compared to SDB and SDE for the front and the two side angles either before or after RS (p < 0.05). Concerning 25 m, distance estimation was better after compared to before RS for the front angle during the NNS session (p < 0.05). For 15 m, distance estimation was better during NNS than SDB and SDE for the front and both side angles after RS (p < 0.05). We concluded that partial sleep deprivation negatively affected the estimation of the egocentric distance for the three angles of view either at rest or after RS exercise.
The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycl... more The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycling step protocol (Vib) and normal cycling (without vibration, no-Vib). Eighteen moderate trained males (age 24.1 ± 4.3 years; weight 76.5 ± 10.5 kg; height 178.0 ± 6.4 cm) have participated in this study. They randomly performed two gradual maximal exercise tests on two separate days using a new bike that automatically induces vibration cycling and the Corival cycle ergometer. The choice of two different bikes was made because of the impossibility to recreate the same power output without altering the cycling cadence on the vibration Bike. Both protocols were matched for power output and cycling cadence incrementations. Oxygen uptake (VO 2), carbon dioxide production (VCO 2), ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during each stage were continuously recorded. No statistical differences were founded for all variables when comparing the Vib to no-Vib trials, except a higher ventilation during the vibration trial at submaximal levels. The results of this study do not confirm those of previous studies stated that Vib increased metabolic demands during cycling exercise. Added vibration stimulus to an incremental cycling protocol does not affect physiological parameters.
International journal of sports physiology and performance, 2018
To assess postmatch perceived exertion, feeling, and wellness according to the match outcome (win... more To assess postmatch perceived exertion, feeling, and wellness according to the match outcome (winning, drawing, or losing) in professional soccer players. In total, 12 outfield players were followed during 52 official matches where the outcomes (win, draw, or lose) were noted. Following each match, players completed both a 10-point Borg scale modified by Foster and an 11-point Hardy and Rejeski scale rating of perceived feeling. Rating of perceived sleep quality, stress, fatigue, and muscle soreness was collected separately on a 7-point scale the day following each match. Player rating of perceived exertion was higher by a very large magnitude following a loss compared with a draw or a win and higher by a small magnitude after a draw compared with a win. Players felt more pleasure after a win compared with a draw or loss and more displeasure after a loss compared with draw. The players reported a largely and moderately better perceived sleep quality, less stress, and fatigue followi...
International journal of Sport Studies for Health, 2018
Based on Moon observation, every year, adults healthy Muslims practiced Ramadan intermittent fast... more Based on Moon observation, every year, adults healthy Muslims practiced Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) for 29 or 30 consecutive days. During RIF Muslims are allowed to food and fluid intake only during night (from sunset to sunrise). Thus, behavioral changes are observed during RIF (e.g., food and sleep habits). Despite these changes, many healthy Muslims maintain their normal habitual physical exercise practice during RIF. However, changes in blood lipids, metabolic markers, electrolytes and hematological parameters during RIF in practitioners of physical activity are yet poorly studied. Therefore, the present review article will summarize the health specific effects of RIF in subjects engaged in physical training during Ramadan.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2017
Purpose:To investigate the difference between straight-line (STL) and change-of-direction (COD) i... more Purpose:To investigate the difference between straight-line (STL) and change-of-direction (COD) intermittent-running exercises in soccer players.Methods:Seventeen male professional soccer players performed the agility T test and 6 intermittent-running exercises: 10 s at 130% of maximal aerobic speed (MAS) alternated with 10 s of rest (10-10), 15 s at 120% of MAS alternated with 15 s of rest (15-15), and 30 s at 110% of MAS alternated with 30 s of rest (30-30) both in STL and with COD. All exercises were monitored using a global positioning system. Heart rate was measured during exercises, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected postexercise. The difference (Δ) between covered distance in STL and COD exercises at a similar load was calculated, and relationships between T test and Δ distance were analyzed.Results:COD intermittent exercises showed a significantly decreased distance covered and an increase in the number of accelerations, peak heart rate, and RPE compared wi...
The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 2016
The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in anthropometric and physical fitness chara... more The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics in professional soccer players at the beginning of the season, after preseason camp and during in-season. Seventeen players were evaluated on three different periods (June: T0, August: T1 and December: T2). Each evaluation consisted of anthropometric measurements (body mass, height, and body fat) and physical fitness tests (counter movement jump [CMJ], counter movement jump with arm (CMJA), 10-m sprint, 30-m sprint and maximal aerobic speed [MAS]). Comparatively with T0, all physical performances achieved in T1 were significantly improved (MAS: P<0.01, 10-m sprint: P<0.05, 30-m sprint: P<0.05, CMJ: P<0.01, and CMJA: P<0.05). The decrease in training load during in-season is associated by significant decrement in MAS (P<0.05) and preserved performances in 10 (P=0.85) and 30-m sprint (P=0.99), CMJ (P=0.34) and CMJA (P=0.87) completed in T2 comparatively with T1...
This study aimed to examine: (i) the effect of decreasing training load (TL) during taper weeks o... more This study aimed to examine: (i) the effect of decreasing training load (TL) during taper weeks on physical match activities in professional soccer players, and (ii) to disclose the relationship between weekly TL and physical match activities. Rating of perceived exertion was collected after each training session and match to quantify the TL in 19 professional players over 17 standard and 7 taper weeks during the season. Physical match activities were quantified by a computerised match analysis system and compared between standard training and taper weeks. Compared to standard weeks, the duration and frequency of training sessions during the taper weeks decreased (-21.7% and -18.8%, respectively; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01) with no change in intensity (-4.8%; P = 0.09). Consequently, the weekly TL decreased during the taper weeks (-25.5%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Increases in distance covered by intense running (+15.1%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05), high-intensity running (HIR) (+15.7%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01), number of sprints (+17.8%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05) and number of high-speed runs (+15.7%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05) were observed during the seven matches played after the taper weeks. High relationships were observed between TL and HIR distance covered, number of HIR and number of sprints (r = -0.53; r = -0.55; r = -0.65, respectively; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Decreasing TL during taper weeks by reducing training duration and frequency but maintaining intensity was associated with an increase in physical activities during matches. However, it needs to be determined whether tapering or other match factors led to the changes in match activity.
The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two different training programmes-change of di... more The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two different training programmes-change of direction (COD) vs. agility (AG)-on straight sprint (SS), COD and AG test performances in young elite soccer players. Thirty-two soccer players (age: 14.5±0.9 years; height: 171.2±5.1 cm; body mass: 56.4±7.1 kg, body fat: 10.3±2.3%) participated in a short-term (6 weeks) training study. Players were randomly assigned to two experimental groups-training with change of direction drills (COD-G, n=11) or using agility training (AG-G, n= 11)-and to a control group (CON-G, n=10). All players completed the following tests before and after training: straight sprint (15m SS), 15 m agility run with (15m-AR-B) and without a ball (15m-AR), 5-0-5 agility test, reactive agility test (RAT), and RAT test with ball (RAT-B). A significant group effect was observed for all tests (p<0.001; η 2 =large). In 15m SS, COD-G and AG-G improved significantly (2.21; ES=0.57 and 2.18%; ES=0.89 respectively) more than CON-G (0.59%; ES=0.14). In the 15m-AR and 5-0-5 agility test, COD-G improved significantly more (5.41%; ES=1.15 and 3.41; ES=0.55 respectively) than AG-G (3.65%; ES=1.05 and 2.24; ES=0.35 respectively) and CON-G (1.62%; ES=0.96 and 0.97; ES=0.19 respectively). Improvements in RAT and RAT-B were larger (9.37%; ES=2.28 and 7.73%; ES=2.99 respectively) in RAT-G than the other groups. In conclusion, agility performance amongst young elite soccer could be improved using COD training. Nevertheless, including a conditioning programme for agility may allow a high level of athletic performance to be achieved.
The first purpose of this study was to determine whether the peak velocity (V Yo-Yo) achieved dur... more The first purpose of this study was to determine whether the peak velocity (V Yo-Yo) achieved during the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (Yo-Yo) and the maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) determined from the Université de Montréal Track Test (UMTT) could be used interchangeably. The second purpose was to check that the V Yo-Yo is related to the intermittent exercise performance, which consisted of repeated 90 m distance runs in 15 s performed until exhaustion, alternated with 15 s of passive recovery (15/15). Fourteen amateur soccer players performed, in a random order, the 15/15 and two incremental field-tests: the Yo-Yo and the UMTT. The results of this study showed that MAV was significantly correlated to the V Yo-Yo (r = 0.79, p < 0.01). However, the error was not constant, when the V Yo-Yo and the MAV values were higher than 16.3 km h −1 , the MAV values tends to be higher than the V Yo-Yo , while when the V Yo-Yo and the MAV values were lower than 16.3 km h −1 , the MAV values tends to be lower than the V Yo-Yo. MAV and V Yo-Yo were significantly correlated to the time to exhaustion of the 15/15 (r = 0.74 and r = 0.72, respectively) and show that both tests are similarly related to the high-intensity intermittent exercise performance.
Background: Skeletal muscle contractions due to exercise lead to the secretion of many proteins a... more Background: Skeletal muscle contractions due to exercise lead to the secretion of many proteins and proteoglycan peptides called myokines. Myostatin (MSTN) and MyoGenin (MyoG) are two of the most important skeletal muscle growth regulatory factors related to myoblast differentiation and muscle hypertrophy. The present study aims at investigating the effects over eight weeks of high-intensity circuit training (HICT) on serum MyoG and MSTN in male soccer players. Method: The present study is a quasi-experimental study on 21 male soccer players (Experimental group: n=11, Control group: n=10) (ages 15.0±3.4 years, body mass 55.7 ±7.8 kg, height 173.3 ±8.0 cm, Body mass index 18.4 ±1.9 kg.m-2, maximum oxygen uptake 61.89±3.01 ml.kg-1 and the peak height velocity 14.5 ± 0.3 years). Participants were randomly divided into two groups of training group (TG) and a control group (CG). The first resting blood samples were obtained in the morning-fasting state, and the second blood samples were ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Over the years, the foot tapping test protocol has been proposed by scientists to identify the ca... more Over the years, the foot tapping test protocol has been proposed by scientists to identify the capabilities of the lower limb neuromuscular system in the medical context; however, to our knowledge, no studies have established its usefulness and relationship to athletic performance. The aim of the present study was to test the reliability, criterion validity and sensitivity of a new foot tapping (TAP) test, and to examine its relationship with proxies of athletic performance in soccer players. Forty voluntary soccer players of two different levels participated in this study (20 players from the national level: age: 22.6 ± 2.5 years and 20 players from regional level: 25.1 ± 3.6 years). They performed the TAP test on two separate occasions to test its relative and absolute reliability. To examine the criterion validity of the TAP test, all participants performed four types of jumps, sprint tests, agility tests, the Wingate test and the finger tapping test considered a gold standard ta...
Training effects on plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)/cortisol ratio were investigated ... more Training effects on plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)/cortisol ratio were investigated in boxers. Thirty subjects were assigned to either the training or the control group (n = 15 in both). They were tested before the beginning of training (T0), after 5 weeks of intensive training (T1), and after 1 week of tapering (T2). Physical performances (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level-1), training loads, and blood sampling were obtained at T0, T1, and T2. Controls were only tested for biochemical and anthropometric parameters at T0 and T2. A significantly higher physical performance was observed at T2 compared to T1. At T1, cortisol levels were significantly increased whereas IGF-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels remained unchanged compared to baseline. At T2, cortisol levels decreased while IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels increased. The IGF-1/cortisol ratio decreased significantly at T1 and increased at T2, and its variations were significantly cor...
ECLB-COVID19 Consortium INTRODUCTION Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease... more ECLB-COVID19 Consortium INTRODUCTION Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) [1]. The disease was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province, and has since spread globally to affect around 6 million people (as of the 4 th week of May 2020), including nearly 350 000 deaths in more than 220 countries [2]. Due to the consistently growing number of confirmed cases and to avoid overwhelming health systems, WHO and public health authorities around the world have been acting to contain the rapid spread of the COVID-19 outbreak, with primary measures focusing on social distancing, self-isolation, and nationwide lockdowns.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2020
Purpose: To investigate the optimal pretaper duration on match running performance in a professio... more Purpose: To investigate the optimal pretaper duration on match running performance in a professional soccer team. Methods: The training load was monitored during daily training sessions and matches during 2 seasons according to different periodization strategies. Matches’ running distances were collected using match analysis system. The data were analyzed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks of 5 (M5), 4 (M4), and 3 weeks (M3), concludes all of them by 1 taper week. Results: Significant decreases in the training load during the taper weeks compared to standard weeks were observed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks (d ≥ 5; P
BackgroundPublic health recommendations and government measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have... more BackgroundPublic health recommendations and government measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have enforced restrictions on daily living, which may include social distancing, remote work/school, and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to abate the spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on mental health and emotional wellbeing is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched on April 6, 2020 in seven languages to elucidate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on mental health and emotional well-being. This report presents the preliminary results from the first thousand responders on mental wellbeing and mood and feelings questionnaires.MethodsThe ECLB-COVID19 electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists and academics, following a structured review of the literature. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online survey platform. Thirty-five research organizations from Europe, North-Afr...
BackgroundPublic health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic ha... more BackgroundPublic health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have enforced numerous restrictions on daily living including social distancing, isolation and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to mitigate spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on psychosocial health is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched in April 2020 in seven languages to elucidate the behavioral and lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. This report presents the preliminary results from the first thousand responders on social participation and life satisfaction.MethodsThirty-five research organisations from Europe, North-Africa, Western Asia and the Americas promoted the survey through their networks to the general society, in English, German, French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, and Slovenian languages. Questions were presented in a differential format with questions related to responses “before” and “durin...
AimTo develop a 6‐minute walk‐distance (6MWD) reference equation for children and adolescents wit... more AimTo develop a 6‐minute walk‐distance (6MWD) reference equation for children and adolescents with obesity, and to assess its determinant factors.MethodsA cross‐sectional study using mixed linear and multiple regression models was conducted in 497 children (235 girls and 262 boys) aged 6‐18 years with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 97th percentile. Anthropometrics and a 6‐minute walk test (6MWT) were performed.ResultsMean 6MWD was 547 ± 86 m for girls and 575 ± 96 m for boys, which averaged ~80% of a reference normal‐weight population matched for age and ethnicity. Age, weight and BMI were positively correlated with 6MWD whereas waist and hip circumferences (WC and HC, respectively) were negatively correlated with 6MWD for both genders. The combination of age, height, BMI and HC explained 69% of the 6MWD variability in the equation for the whole population. Moreover, the combination of age, height, HC as well as the combination of age, height, BMI and WC explained 67% and 75% ...
International journal of Sport Studies for Health, 2018
Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity and the reliability of a new fitness... more Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity and the reliability of a new fitness intermittent judo test using the basic movement patterns of judo. Methods: Forty-one national level judo male athletes participated in this study. Eighteen judokas performed the intermittent judo fitness test consisting of 10 × 30 s maximal interspersed with 15 second rest, the Australian shuttle test, the special judo fitness test and a judo fight. Twenty three judokas performed twice the intermittent judo fitness test on different days. Results: The results showed significant correlations between the biggest number of Uchi-komi during the intermittent judo fitness test (Uchi-komi best), the longest distance covered during Australian shuttle test and the total projection in the special judo fitness test (P < 0.01). Likewise, a significant relationship was demonstrated between the total Uchi-komi performed in the new judo test (Uchikomi Tot) and both the total distance covered during Australian test and the total projection during the special judo fitness test (P < 0.01). In addition, a significant correlation of the rating of perceived exertion was observed between the intermittent judo fitness test and judo fight (P < 0.05). The intra-class correlation coefficient analysis revealed relatively strong test-retest reliability for Uchikomi best and Uchi-komi Tot (> 0.90). The smallest worthwhile change showed that a change of 2 and 4 Uchi-komi in Uchi-komi best and Uchi-komi Tot respectively is occurred. Conclusions: The new fitness intermittent judo test is both valid and reliable measurement tool to assess judokas' fitness at the basic judo movement patterns.
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intensive effort on egocentric distance per... more The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intensive effort on egocentric distance perception according to different angles of view after sleep deprivation at the beginning (SDB) or at the end (SDE) of the night and after a normal sleep night (NNS). Ten male students soccer players (age 22.8 ± 1.3 years; body mass 72.0 ± 10.4 kg; body height 180.0 ± 3.0 cm) performed a repeated cycling (RS) exercise (10 × 6 s maximal cycling with 24 s in between) after SDB, SDE, and NNS. They were asked to estimate three distances (i.e. 15, 25, and 35 m) before and after RS from different angles of view [i.e. in front (0 •) and in side (45 • left and 45 • right)]. For 35 m, distance estimation was better during NNS compared to SDB and SDE for the front and the two side angles either before or after RS (p < 0.05). Concerning 25 m, distance estimation was better after compared to before RS for the front angle during the NNS session (p < 0.05). For 15 m, distance estimation was better during NNS than SDB and SDE for the front and both side angles after RS (p < 0.05). We concluded that partial sleep deprivation negatively affected the estimation of the egocentric distance for the three angles of view either at rest or after RS exercise.
The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycl... more The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycling step protocol (Vib) and normal cycling (without vibration, no-Vib). Eighteen moderate trained males (age 24.1 ± 4.3 years; weight 76.5 ± 10.5 kg; height 178.0 ± 6.4 cm) have participated in this study. They randomly performed two gradual maximal exercise tests on two separate days using a new bike that automatically induces vibration cycling and the Corival cycle ergometer. The choice of two different bikes was made because of the impossibility to recreate the same power output without altering the cycling cadence on the vibration Bike. Both protocols were matched for power output and cycling cadence incrementations. Oxygen uptake (VO 2), carbon dioxide production (VCO 2), ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during each stage were continuously recorded. No statistical differences were founded for all variables when comparing the Vib to no-Vib trials, except a higher ventilation during the vibration trial at submaximal levels. The results of this study do not confirm those of previous studies stated that Vib increased metabolic demands during cycling exercise. Added vibration stimulus to an incremental cycling protocol does not affect physiological parameters.
International journal of sports physiology and performance, 2018
To assess postmatch perceived exertion, feeling, and wellness according to the match outcome (win... more To assess postmatch perceived exertion, feeling, and wellness according to the match outcome (winning, drawing, or losing) in professional soccer players. In total, 12 outfield players were followed during 52 official matches where the outcomes (win, draw, or lose) were noted. Following each match, players completed both a 10-point Borg scale modified by Foster and an 11-point Hardy and Rejeski scale rating of perceived feeling. Rating of perceived sleep quality, stress, fatigue, and muscle soreness was collected separately on a 7-point scale the day following each match. Player rating of perceived exertion was higher by a very large magnitude following a loss compared with a draw or a win and higher by a small magnitude after a draw compared with a win. Players felt more pleasure after a win compared with a draw or loss and more displeasure after a loss compared with draw. The players reported a largely and moderately better perceived sleep quality, less stress, and fatigue followi...
International journal of Sport Studies for Health, 2018
Based on Moon observation, every year, adults healthy Muslims practiced Ramadan intermittent fast... more Based on Moon observation, every year, adults healthy Muslims practiced Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) for 29 or 30 consecutive days. During RIF Muslims are allowed to food and fluid intake only during night (from sunset to sunrise). Thus, behavioral changes are observed during RIF (e.g., food and sleep habits). Despite these changes, many healthy Muslims maintain their normal habitual physical exercise practice during RIF. However, changes in blood lipids, metabolic markers, electrolytes and hematological parameters during RIF in practitioners of physical activity are yet poorly studied. Therefore, the present review article will summarize the health specific effects of RIF in subjects engaged in physical training during Ramadan.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2017
Purpose:To investigate the difference between straight-line (STL) and change-of-direction (COD) i... more Purpose:To investigate the difference between straight-line (STL) and change-of-direction (COD) intermittent-running exercises in soccer players.Methods:Seventeen male professional soccer players performed the agility T test and 6 intermittent-running exercises: 10 s at 130% of maximal aerobic speed (MAS) alternated with 10 s of rest (10-10), 15 s at 120% of MAS alternated with 15 s of rest (15-15), and 30 s at 110% of MAS alternated with 30 s of rest (30-30) both in STL and with COD. All exercises were monitored using a global positioning system. Heart rate was measured during exercises, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected postexercise. The difference (Δ) between covered distance in STL and COD exercises at a similar load was calculated, and relationships between T test and Δ distance were analyzed.Results:COD intermittent exercises showed a significantly decreased distance covered and an increase in the number of accelerations, peak heart rate, and RPE compared wi...
The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 2016
The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in anthropometric and physical fitness chara... more The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics in professional soccer players at the beginning of the season, after preseason camp and during in-season. Seventeen players were evaluated on three different periods (June: T0, August: T1 and December: T2). Each evaluation consisted of anthropometric measurements (body mass, height, and body fat) and physical fitness tests (counter movement jump [CMJ], counter movement jump with arm (CMJA), 10-m sprint, 30-m sprint and maximal aerobic speed [MAS]). Comparatively with T0, all physical performances achieved in T1 were significantly improved (MAS: P<0.01, 10-m sprint: P<0.05, 30-m sprint: P<0.05, CMJ: P<0.01, and CMJA: P<0.05). The decrease in training load during in-season is associated by significant decrement in MAS (P<0.05) and preserved performances in 10 (P=0.85) and 30-m sprint (P=0.99), CMJ (P=0.34) and CMJA (P=0.87) completed in T2 comparatively with T1...
This study aimed to examine: (i) the effect of decreasing training load (TL) during taper weeks o... more This study aimed to examine: (i) the effect of decreasing training load (TL) during taper weeks on physical match activities in professional soccer players, and (ii) to disclose the relationship between weekly TL and physical match activities. Rating of perceived exertion was collected after each training session and match to quantify the TL in 19 professional players over 17 standard and 7 taper weeks during the season. Physical match activities were quantified by a computerised match analysis system and compared between standard training and taper weeks. Compared to standard weeks, the duration and frequency of training sessions during the taper weeks decreased (-21.7% and -18.8%, respectively; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01) with no change in intensity (-4.8%; P = 0.09). Consequently, the weekly TL decreased during the taper weeks (-25.5%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Increases in distance covered by intense running (+15.1%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05), high-intensity running (HIR) (+15.7%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01), number of sprints (+17.8%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05) and number of high-speed runs (+15.7%; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.05) were observed during the seven matches played after the taper weeks. High relationships were observed between TL and HIR distance covered, number of HIR and number of sprints (r = -0.53; r = -0.55; r = -0.65, respectively; P &amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Decreasing TL during taper weeks by reducing training duration and frequency but maintaining intensity was associated with an increase in physical activities during matches. However, it needs to be determined whether tapering or other match factors led to the changes in match activity.
The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two different training programmes-change of di... more The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two different training programmes-change of direction (COD) vs. agility (AG)-on straight sprint (SS), COD and AG test performances in young elite soccer players. Thirty-two soccer players (age: 14.5±0.9 years; height: 171.2±5.1 cm; body mass: 56.4±7.1 kg, body fat: 10.3±2.3%) participated in a short-term (6 weeks) training study. Players were randomly assigned to two experimental groups-training with change of direction drills (COD-G, n=11) or using agility training (AG-G, n= 11)-and to a control group (CON-G, n=10). All players completed the following tests before and after training: straight sprint (15m SS), 15 m agility run with (15m-AR-B) and without a ball (15m-AR), 5-0-5 agility test, reactive agility test (RAT), and RAT test with ball (RAT-B). A significant group effect was observed for all tests (p<0.001; η 2 =large). In 15m SS, COD-G and AG-G improved significantly (2.21; ES=0.57 and 2.18%; ES=0.89 respectively) more than CON-G (0.59%; ES=0.14). In the 15m-AR and 5-0-5 agility test, COD-G improved significantly more (5.41%; ES=1.15 and 3.41; ES=0.55 respectively) than AG-G (3.65%; ES=1.05 and 2.24; ES=0.35 respectively) and CON-G (1.62%; ES=0.96 and 0.97; ES=0.19 respectively). Improvements in RAT and RAT-B were larger (9.37%; ES=2.28 and 7.73%; ES=2.99 respectively) in RAT-G than the other groups. In conclusion, agility performance amongst young elite soccer could be improved using COD training. Nevertheless, including a conditioning programme for agility may allow a high level of athletic performance to be achieved.
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