Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology最新文献

{"title":"Validity and Reliability of 2D Video Analysis for Swimming Kick Start Kinematics.","authors":"Ivan Matúš, Bibana Vadašová, Tomáš Eliáš, Łukasz Rydzik, Tadeusz Ambroży, Wojciech Czarny","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020184","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020184","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Objective evaluation of the swimming start is crucial for sprint performance improvement. Traditional visual assessment of its phases-reaction, take-off, flight, and underwater glide-lacks precision. This study addresses the need for more integrated and accessible biomechanical tools by validating IQ LAB software (Version 250319), which is embedded in the SwimPro system and enables immediate video-based motion analysis without external processing. Existing tools like Dartfish (ProSuite 4.0) require separate video handling and licensing, whereas IQ LAB offers a built-in, streamlined solution suitable for applied environments.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We evaluated the concurrent validity of the IQ LAB software, a desktop 2D motion analysis tool, using Dartfish (ProSuite 4.0) as the gold standard. The reliability was assessed using intrarater temporal stability and interrater agreement, considering selected kinematic parameters related to the swimming kick start (to 5 m). A sample of 13 competitive male swimmers (age 17.2 ± 1.1 years) was analyzed across two sessions. Concurrent validity was assessed by comparing IQ LAB outputs to those from Dartfish software in the sagittal plane. Intrarater reliability was measured using a test-retest design across two sessions spaced 7 days apart. Interrater reliability involved two independent raters analyzing the same video data using IQ LAB.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>IQ LAB and Dartfish kinematic parameters demonstrated strong agreement (Pearson r ≥ 0.95), with no significant systematic differences. The intrarater and interrater reliability were excellent (ICC ≥ 0.94, 95% CI included). The test-retest reliability of the selected parameters across seasons also showed excellent reproducibility (ICC ≥ 0.93).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>IQ LAB software provides a valid and reliable 2D kinematic assessment of the swimming kick start, offering a practical and accessible tool for coaches and researchers. This study introduces a novel validated software solution for biomechanical analysis in swimming starts.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101390/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127478","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Impact of Deep Core Muscle System Training Through Virtual Reality on Selected Posturographic Parameters.","authors":"Jakub Čuj, Denisa Lenková, Miloslav Gajdoš, Eva Lukáčová, Michal Macej, Katarína Hnátová, Pavol Nechvátal, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020185","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020185","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Objective:</b> The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of deep core muscle training in the plank position, using the Icaros^® system, integrated with virtual reality (VR), on selected posturographic parameters. <b>Methods:</b> To meet the stated objective, we utilized the Icaros^® therapeutic system (Icaros GmbH, Martinsried, Germany) for VR-based exercise. The posturographic parameters were measured using the FootScan^® force platform (Materialise Motion, Paal, Belgium). A representative sample of 30 healthy participants, 13 females and 17 males (age: 22.5 ± 2.1 years; weight: 65 ± 2.9 kg; height: 1.68 ± 0.4 m; BMI: 23.04 ± 1.75) was included in the study. All participants had no prior experience with VR. The selected posturographic parameters were the ellipse area (mm²) and traveled distance (mm), assessed four times at five-minute intervals, following a 15 min VR-based training session on the Icaros^® system. <b>Results:</b> The results revealed that the participants experienced a sense of instability after completing the 15 min VR session, as objectively demonstrated by changes in the measured parameters. Both the ellipse area and traveled distance showed a worsening trend during the first three measurements: immediately post-exercise, at 5 min, and at 10 min post-exercise. A downward trend was observed in the fourth measurement, taken 15 min after exercise. Statistically significant differences were found between both parameters: ellipse area (<i>p</i> = 0.000) and traveled distance (<i>p</i> = 0.000). Post hoc analysis further confirmed significant differences between the time points. <b>Conclusions:</b> Based on the findings, it is recommended that trainers and physiotherapists supervising athletes or patients using the Icaros^® VR system allow for a minimum rest period of 15 min in a seated or lying position following exercise. This recovery period appears essential to mitigate the sensation of instability and to reduce the risk of complications or injury due to potential falls.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101222/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127824","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Physical Activity as a Central Pillar of Lifestyle Modification in the Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review.","authors":"Rodrigo Núñez-Cortés, Joaquín Salazar-Méndez, Jo Nijs","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020183","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020183","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Objective</b>: This narrative review aims to analyze physical activity as a central pillar of lifestyle modification in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain by examining its effects on pain modulation as well as related lifestyle domains, including sleep, stress regulation, dietary habits, and smoking behavior. <b>Methods</b>: A narrative structured review was conducted. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Reviews using terms related to chronic pain and lifestyle. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, systematic reviews, and narrative reviews reporting on the concepts of interest were included. The results were synthesized and described narratively. <b>Results</b>: Through the release of neuromodulatory compounds such as endorphins, endocannabinoids, dopamine, and serotonin, exercise improves analgesia, promotes emotional resilience, and reduces the reward response associated with addictive behaviors such as smoking. Its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis reduce cortisol levels, while melatonin regulation promotes circadian synchronization and deeper sleep stages. In addition, exercise modulates appetite by increasing insulin sensitivity and altering hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, contributing to appetite control and energy balance. These mechanisms support a comprehensive approach to chronic pain management. <b>Conclusions</b>: Physical activity is a core component of lifestyle-based chronic pain management, not only because of its analgesic effects, but also because of its positive influence on sleep, stress regulation, dietary habits, and smoking reduction. Although the available evidence is promising, more randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the effects of exercise on other healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as stress reduction, dietary modification, and smoking cessation, to consolidate its role in the comprehensive prevention and management of chronic pain.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101186/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127777","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Differences in the Relative External Load Demands of Pre-Competitive Warm-Ups and Official Matches in Semi-Professional Football Players: A Pilot Study Considering Specific Positions.","authors":"José María Escudero-Ferrer, Luis Manuel Martínez-Aranda, Manuel Sanz-Matesanz, Konstantinos Spyrou, Pedro E Alcaraz, Javier Raya-González","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020182","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020182","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> A pre-competition warm-up is considered a key strategy for optimising physical preparedness and potentially reducing injury risks in football. Programmes such as FIFA 11+ have demonstrated efficacy in this regard. Its effectiveness depends on alignment with match demands. This study compares the relative external load demands of warm-ups and matches in semi-professional football players, focusing on positional differences. <b>Objective</b>: The goal of this study was to evaluate whether warm-ups adequately prepare players for match demands and to explore positional variations. <b>Methods:</b> This is a retrospective study that analysed 19 semi-professional male players during the 2023/2024 season. External load demands (m/min) were measured using a GPS, covering the total distance (TD), speed zones (DZ1-DZ5), accelerations (ACCs), and decelerations (DECs). Paired <i>t</i>-tests and effect size calculations compared team-wide and position-specific demands. <b>Results</b>: Match demands significantly exceeded warm-up demands across all distance-related variables, except for DZ1 (67.06 vs. 66.40 m/min for warm-ups and games, respectively). The greatest differences were observed in TD (80.73 vs. 107.12 m/min; -26.39%) and DZ2-DZ3 (-17.42 and -4.89%, respectively). A positional analysis revealed that concerning DZ1, midfielders covered more distance during competitions (67.62 vs. 65.04 m/min; -2.58%), while full-backs covered more during the pre-competition warm-up (69.01 vs. 66.86 m/min; 2.14%). Additionally, midfielders, wingers, and forwards experienced higher match demands in DECs (1.04; 1.12, and 1.18 nº/min; range = 0.23-3.13%), whereas central defenders showed higher values during the pre-competition warm-up (1.14 nº/min; 0.13%). No significant differences were found for ACCs across any position; however, central defenders showed higher nº ACCs during warm-up (1.04 vs. 0.97 nº/min). <b>Conclusions:</b> These findings enable clubs and coaches to redesign their warm-up protocols to align as closely as possible with the demands of matches, particularly in high-speed zones, to enhance readiness, thereby increasing the effectiveness of warm-ups in football competitions. Additionally, this approach allows for the individualisation of warm-up routines based on the player's specific position.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101154/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127432","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Association Between Walking Speed and Mortality in Cardiac Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Involved in a Secondary Prevention Program.","authors":"Valentina Zerbini, Tommaso Piva, Andrea Raisi, Erica Menegatti, Gianni Mazzoni, Giovanni Grazzi, Simona Mandini","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020181","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020181","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: This study aimed to investigate associations between walking speed (WS) and mortality among cardiac patients with type 2 diabetes. <b>Methods</b>: Of the 3328 patients included in the ITER registry between 1998 and 2023, 490 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (mean age 67 ± 9 years) were categorized into tertiles based on WS measured at baseline. Walking speed was measured using the 1 km treadmill walking test (1km-TWT). Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine associations between WS and all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality, adjusting for demographic and clinical confounders. <b>Results</b>: The results showed a significative inverse association between WS and mortality. A total of 205 patients died over a median follow-up of 11 years. Patients with a higher baseline WS reported a lower mortality risk compared to slow walkers. A similar magnitude was confirmed by the sensitivity analysis excluding people who died in the first three years. <b>Conclusions</b>: The 1km-TWT is an effective predictor of mortality among cardiac patients with type 2 diabetes and a valuable educational tool for exercise-based interventions in secondary prevention. These findings highlight the efficacy of exercise-based programs to improve physical function and reduce mortality risk, underscoring the importance of promoting exercise as part of long-term cardiovascular disease management.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101252/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127871","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Great Offset Loading Influences Core and Bench Press Peak Prime Mover's Activity in Trained Athletes.","authors":"Bernat Buscà, Jordi Arboix-Alió, Clàudia Baraut, Adrià Arboix, Joan Aguilera-Castells","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020180","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020180","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Objectives</b>: This study aimed to compare the acute responses of the muscular activity of primary movers during bench press execution under asymmetric loads (25%, 50%, and 75%). <b>Methods</b>: The study included 30 resistance-trained males (n = 25, age = 22.73 ± 3.44 years, height= 1.77 ± 0.06 m, body mass= 76.77 ± 9.28 kg) and females (n = 5, age = 22.5 ± 1.19 years, height = 1.63 ± 0.04 m, body mass = 56.78 ± 2.90 kg). We assessed the two portions of the dominant pectoralis major, triceps brachii, anterior deltoid, and both external oblique peak activities (sEMG) during concentric and eccentric phases. We performed a repeated-measures design to establish the differences between muscle activity, barbell center of mass acceleration, and OMNI-Perceived Exertion Scale for Resistance Exercise (OMNI-RES) in a bench press under seven different conditions. <b>Results</b>: The linear mixed model showed a significant fixed effect for exercise condition for muscles (<i>p</i> < 0.001) in the concentric and eccentric phases. We found significantly higher clavicularis (<i>d</i> = 0.54; <i>d</i> = 1.15) and sternalis (<i>d</i> = 0.38; <i>d</i> = 0.86) pectoralis major activation of the dominant side under high (50% and 75%), non-dominant-side, de-loaded conditions in the eccentric phase (<i>p</i> < 0.001), with large effects. Contralateral core muscles (external oblique) of the dominant and non-dominant sides were significantly (<i>p</i> < 0.001) highly activated under all asymmetric conditions in the concentric phase (from <i>d</i> = 0.89 to <i>d</i> = 2.30). <b>Conclusions</b>: The asymmetric load bench press provoked a higher pectoralis major activation on the loaded side when de-loading the other side. The contralateral external oblique doubles the muscle activity in the most asymmetric conditions.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101157/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127651","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Impact of Exercise Modalities on Upper Extremity Spasticity in an Adult with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report.","authors":"Juntack Oh, Michele Aquino","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020177","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020177","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Spasticity, a hallmark of quadriplegic cerebral palsy (CP), severely impacts mobility and quality of life. While exercise is known to enhance fitness and motor function in individuals with CP, its specific efficacy in reducing upper extremity spasticity remains insufficiently studied. This research investigated the effects of weight-resistance exercise (RE), hand cycle bike exercise (BE), and aquatic exercise (AE) on upper extremity spasticity in an adult with quadriplegic CP. <b>Method:</b> The participant was a 35-year-old individual with quadriplegic spastic CP, presenting severe spasticity in the right upper extremity and lower limbs, and milder left arm involvement. Dependent on a power wheelchair, they were cognitively intact, college-educated, and had participated in a community exercise program for five years. Over nine weeks, the participant completed 18 sessions-6 per modality of RE, BE, and AE-with each session held twice weekly for 50 min. Spasticity was assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) before and after sessions, with comprehensive pre- and post-intervention evaluations. <b>Result:</b> Total MAS scores decreased significantly from 2.76 to 2.33 (<i>p</i> < 0.05). AE yielded the largest reduction (2.81 to 2.10), followed by BE (2.75 to 2.36) and RE (2.72 to 2.54). ANOVA confirmed AE's superior efficacy (F(2,15) = 27.20, <i>p</i> < 0.001, ηp² = 0.78), with a 0.33 reduction overall. <b>Conclusions:</b> AE was most effective, likely due to buoyancy, followed by BE, with RE showing the least impact. These findings highlight aquatic interventions as promising for spasticity management in CP, necessitating further longitudinal, multi-participant research.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101229/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127681","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Myoelectric Activity of the Peroneal Muscles Following Lateral Ankle Sprain: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.","authors":"Oriol Casasayas-Cos, Noé Labata-Lezaun, Albert Pérez-Bellmunt, Carlos López-de-Celis, Johke Smit, Xavier Marimon-Serra, Ramón Aiguadé-Aiguadé, Joaquín Sanahuja-Diez-Caballero, Max Canet-Vintró, Luis Llurda-Almuzara","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020179","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020179","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: Lateral ankle sprains can result in adverse outcomes, including reinjuries or chronic ankle instability. The peroneal musculature plays a key role in stabilizing the ankle and preventing sudden ankle inversions that may lead to sprains. <b>Objective</b>: The purpose of the study is to investigate (1) inter-limb differences in peroneal myoelectrical activity in athletes with a history of ankle sprain during the past six months and (2) to investigate peroneal myoelectrical activity differences between athletes with and without a history of ankle sprain. <b>Methods</b>: Sixty-seven athletes (53% females, 46.3% males) were included in this observational cross-sectional study. Self-reported data regarding history of ankle sprain were collected. The peroneal myoelectrical activity was obtained during (1) isometric ankle eversion, (2) dynamic ankle eversions, (3) single leg squat, (4) unilateral and (5) bilateral drop jump test, (6) sprint, and (7) change of direction. <b>Results</b>: No significant differences in peroneal myoelectrical activity were observed between individuals with (n = 46) and without (n = 21) a history of ankle sprain in the past six months (<i>p</i> > 0.05). Additionally, no significant inter-limb differences were found within the previous ankle sprain group (<i>p</i> > 0.05). <b>Conclusions</b>: This study found no significant inter-limb differences in peroneal muscle activity among athletes with a history of ankle sprain during the past six months. Moreover, no differences were observed between athletes with and without a history of ankle sprain. This study has certain limitations, including the lack of data regarding the timing and severity of the ankle sprain, as well as the duration and specific characteristics of the rehabilitation process.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101414/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127772","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition Changes in a Five-Time Olympic Champion in Greco-Roman Wrestling: A Longitudinal Case Study Towards the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.","authors":"Wiliam Carvajal-Veitía, Carlos Abraham Herrera-Amante, Rodrigo Yáñez-Sepúlveda, Vladimir Gainza-Pérez, Yanell Deturnell-Campos, Carlos Cristi-Montero, Guillermo Cortés-Roco, César Octavio Ramos-García","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020176","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020176","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Purpose</b>: This case study examines the anthropometric characteristics and body composition changes of a 41-year-old Cuban Greco-Roman 130 kg wrestler, a five-time Olympic gold medalist (2008-2024). To optimize his preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, another athlete participated in the qualifying process, allowing him to train without competition gear. <b>Methods</b>: The study monitored changes in body composition using anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) at three key time points in 2024: January, June, and July. The final assessment occurred 25 days before the Olympic event, coinciding with the final phase of his preparation. <b>Results</b>: The analysis revealed a significant reduction in total body mass, from 150 kg in January to 138.5 kg in July, with fat mass decreasing from 37.06 kg (24.11%) to 29.7 kg (21.5%). Muscle mass decreased slightly (77.41 kg to 72.3 kg), while bone mass remained stable. The somatotype classification was endomorphic-mesomorphic at all assessments, with slight shifts in its components (4.6-10.4-0.1 in January to 4.4-10.3-0.1 in July), reflecting an improved muscle-fat ratio. Notably, hydration levels and cellular integrity remained stable, as indicated by BIVA analysis. <b>Conclusions</b>: This study provides insight into the anthropometric characteristics and body composition of an elite Greco-Roman wrestler, as well as the changes observed during his preparation for his final Olympic participation. These data serve as a valuable reference for wrestlers and sports professionals, highlighting the physical profile of one of the most emblematic figures in Olympic history.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101374/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127796","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effects of Transducer Placement on Load-Velocity Relationships in Smith Machine and Free Weight Squats in Trained Women.","authors":"Athanasios Tsoukos, Gregory C Bogdanis","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10020178","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10020178","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: We examined the effects of linear position transducer placement during Smith machine (SM) and free weight (FW) full squats on the mean velocity and the load-velocity relationship in trained women. In addition, we examined the relationship between the load-velocity characteristics and jump performance, to determine which testing approach is more appropriate for both the testing and transfer of training effects. <b>Methods</b>: Eleven trained women were assessed for 1-RM in FW and SM full back squats. Linear position transducers (LPTs) were attached to the barbell (BAR) and to the belt (BELT) during FW and SM full back squats. The mean velocity was measured across progressively increasing loads (30-100%). The load-velocity relationships were modeled using linear regression, and the velocity values, as well as the load-velocity parameters, were compared across all conditions (SM BAR, SM BELT, FW BAR, and FW BELT). Squat jump, countermovement jump, and drop jump performance were also assessed using an optical measurement system. <b>Results</b>: In SM compared to FW, 1-RM was higher (92.9 ± 16.2 kg vs. 85.1 ± 14.5 kg, <i>p</i> < 0.05, d = 0.53). A strong agreement was observed between the FW BAR and FW BELT (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient CCC = 0.96-0.99), as well as between the SM BAR and FW BAR (CCC = 0.95-0.97) at low-to-moderate intensities (30-70% 1-RM), suggesting that these conditions can be used interchangeably. However, the SM BELT systematically showed lower mean velocity values at 30-80% 1-RM and exhibited low agreement across all other conditions. In contrast, the FW BELT mean velocity was lower than that of the FW BAR and SM BAR only at higher intensities (>80% 1-RM). V0 and mean velocities at low-to-moderate loads (30-70% 1-RM) showed strong correlations with all jump types, with relationships gradually weakening as the load increased (r = 0.63-0.93, <i>p</i> < 0.05). The highest correlations were observed in the SM BAR and FW BELT conditions. Lastly, the relative strength demonstrated a consistent relationship with squat jump and drop jump performance exclusively in the FW condition (r = 0.71 and 0.72, <i>p</i> < 0.05). <b>Conclusions</b>: The FW BAR and FW BELT showed strong agreement at submaximal loads and may be used interchangeably, while the SM BELT showed a lower mean velocity and low agreement with other conditions. The load-velocity relationship parameters and mean velocity at low-to-moderate loads correlated strongly with the jump performance. Coaches and practitioners can use bar-mounted and belt-mounted LPTs interchangeably during FW squats for velocity-based training at submaximal intensities when working with trained women. Additionally, tracking the mean velocity at low-to-moderate loads provides valuable insights into lower-body explosive performance, supporting more precise and individualized training prescriptions and performance monitoring.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101428/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144127593","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}