John Magne Kalhovde, Christian M M Johannessen, Sigmund B Aasen, Espen Tønnessen
{"title":"The Impact of Rest Intervals on the Force-Velocity Relationship Obtained During the Keiser's 10-Repetition Leg Press Test.","authors":"John Magne Kalhovde, Christian M M Johannessen, Sigmund B Aasen, Espen Tønnessen","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010031","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010031","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> The Keiser 10-rep leg press test protocol employs short inter-repetition rest intervals (2-38 s), raising concerns as to whether athletes perform optimally. <b>Objectives:</b> The aim of this study was to compare the results of the standard Keiser protocol with an identical protocol modified to include a significantly longer inter-repetition rest intervals and to evaluate whether these effects differed between men and women. <b>Methods:</b> A total of 30 athletes (age 17.1 ± 0.9 years, height 177.8 ± 8.8 cm, and body mass 71.9 ± 11.3 kg) performed three separate tests (total of ~900 repetitions) in a Keiser A420 leg press machine, separated by 4 to 8 days. Test day 1 included a 1RM test followed by a 10-repetition force-velocity test with a standard rest intervals. Test days 2 and 3 involved the same test, with either standard short rest intervals or fixed 3 min inter-repetition rest intervals. <b>Results:</b> Increasing inter-repetition rest intervals significantly improved <i>V</i><sub>0</sub> and <i>P</i><sub>max</sub> for men and <i>V</i><sub>0</sub> and <i>FV</i><sub>slope</sub> for women. The benefits of longer rest were notably more pronounced in men, particularly at light to moderate loads, where standard Keiser rest intervals are short (2-9 s). However, extending rest intervals beyond approximately 30 s, as applied at higher loads, provided no additional advantages. <b>Conclusions:</b> Longer rest intervals improved force-velocity metrics more in men than women, with the effect being most pronounced at light to moderate loads where standard protocols utilize short rest intervals (2-9 s). These findings suggest that women recover faster than men under these conditions. However, extending rest beyond 30 s at higher loads provides no additional benefits and is counterproductive at maximal loads.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755609/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023610","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}
Matthew Halma, Paul Marik, Joseph Varon, Jack Tuszynski
{"title":"Reversing Decline in Aging Muscles: Expected Trends, Impacts and Remedies.","authors":"Matthew Halma, Paul Marik, Joseph Varon, Jack Tuszynski","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010029","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010029","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: Age-related decline in musculoskeletal function is a significant concern, particularly in Western countries facing demographic shifts and increased healthcare demands. This review examines the typical trajectories of musculoskeletal deterioration with age and evaluates the effectiveness of various interventions in preventing or reversing these changes. <b>Methods</b>: The review analyzes documented rates of decline across multiple parameters, including muscle mass, Type II muscle fiber reduction, and decreased motor unit firing rates. It examines evidence from studies on targeted interventions aimed at reversing these trends or preventing further decline. <b>Results</b>: The evidence suggests that multimodal interventions, including strength training can effectively maintain or improve physical function in aging adults. These interventions have shown potential in altering the trajectory of age-related decline in musculoskeletal function. Conclusions. The findings of this review have important implications for healthcare providers and policymakers in addressing the challenges of an aging population. By providing a framework for understanding and addressing age-related physical decline through evidence-based interventions, this review offers potential strategies for reducing healthcare costs and improving the quality of life for older adults.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755481/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023482","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}
Ida Cariati, Roberto Bonanni, Cristian Romagnoli, Lucio Caprioli, Giovanna D'Arcangelo, Virginia Tancredi, Giuseppe Annino
{"title":"Bone Adaptations to a Whole Body Vibration Protocol in Murine Models of Different Ages: A Preliminary Study on Structural Changes and Biomarker Evaluation.","authors":"Ida Cariati, Roberto Bonanni, Cristian Romagnoli, Lucio Caprioli, Giovanna D'Arcangelo, Virginia Tancredi, Giuseppe Annino","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010026","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010026","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background/Objectives</b>: Whole body vibration (WBV) is a valuable tool to mitigate physiological adaptations related to age and inactivity. Although significant benefits have been found at the musculoskeletal level, including increased bone mass and reduced muscle atrophy, the underlying biological mechanisms remain largely unknown. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the effects of vibratory training on bone tissue in murine models of different age groups by investigating the structural and distribution changes in some crucial biomarkers involved in musculoskeletal homeostasis. <b>Methods</b>: Specifically, 4-, 12-, and 24-month-old mice were trained with a WBV protocol characterized by three series of 2 min and 30 s, interspersed with a recovery period of the same duration, on a 3-weekly frequency for 3 months. At the end of the training, histological and morphometric analyses were conducted, in association with immunohistochemical analysis to investigate changes in the distribution of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). <b>Results</b>: Our preliminary results showed that WBV improves musculoskeletal health by preserving bone architecture and promoting up-regulation of FNDC5 and SIRT1 and down-regulation of NOX4. <b>Conclusions</b>: Our study confirms vibratory training as a viable alternative to counter musculoskeletal decline in elderly and/or sedentary subjects. Further investigations should be conducted to deepen knowledge in this field and explore the role of other molecular mediators in physiological adaptations to vibration.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755639/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023679","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":"Handlebar Width Choices Must Be Considered for Female Cyclists.","authors":"Zi-Jun Lin, Pei-Chen Tsai, Chia-Hsiang Chen","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010028","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010028","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: The effects of handlebar width on female cyclists are understudied; therefore, it is necessary to find an optimal handlebar width for women based on anatomical features. <b>Methods</b>: Ten healthy women participants whose muscle activity and movements were measured using four kinds of handlebar widths were observed using EMG and 3D motion analysis systems. Participants cycled at a constant cadence and power output using different handlebar widths in a counterbalanced order. The kinematic results and muscle activation, as a consequence of using different handlebar widths, were compared using a one-way repeated measures ANOVA (α = 0.05). <b>Results</b>: It was discovered that using a medium-width handlebar not only resulted in significantly lower bicep activation compared to narrow and self-selected widths, but also resulted in less triceps and latissimus dorsi activation compared to the self-selected width. Regarding kinematics, using a medium-width handlebar significantly reduced hip ROM, while using a narrow handlebar led to greater hip adduction. <b>Conclusions</b>: Cyclists are advised to use a handlebar width that matches their shoulder width, since this may avoid muscle fatigue while also allowing for better hip posture. However, commercial models are usually wider than female shoulders. Thus, these results provide insights useful for future handlebar design.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755458/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023704","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}
Tomás García-Calvo, David Lobo-Triviño, Javier Raya-González, Roberto López Del Campo, Ricardo Resta, Eduard Pons, José Carlos Ponce-Bordón
{"title":"The Evolution of Match Running Performance in the Top Two Spanish Soccer Leagues: A Comparative Four-Season Study.","authors":"Tomás García-Calvo, David Lobo-Triviño, Javier Raya-González, Roberto López Del Campo, Ricardo Resta, Eduard Pons, José Carlos Ponce-Bordón","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010027","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010027","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Objectives</b>: This study uniquely examines the evolution of match running performance in official matches over four consecutive seasons (2019/2020-2022/23) within Spain's top two professional soccer leagues (LaLiga). By analyzing differences between competitive league standards (First Division vs. Second Division), this research provides critical insights into how competition levels influence physical performance trends over time. <b>Methods</b>: A total of 6784 match observations were recorded from 95 teams competing in the First and Second Divisions (LaLiga). Performance metrics included total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR, >21 km·h<sup>-1</sup>), very high-speed running (VHSR, 21.1-24 km·h<sup>-1</sup>), sprint distance (Sprint, >24 km·h<sup>-1</sup>), the number of HSR efforts (Nº. Sprints > 21 km·h<sup>-1</sup>), and sprint efforts (Nº. Sprints > 24 km·h<sup>-1</sup>), all analyzed using a computerized tracking system (TRACAB, ChyronHego, New York, NY, USA). <b>Results</b>: The primary findings indicated significantly higher match running performance in First Division matches compared to Second Division matches across all variables (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Furthermore, match running performance significantly increased over the four seasons in both leagues, with notably higher values during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons for all physical performance metrics (<i>p</i> < 0.001). <b>Conclusions</b>: This study contributes to understanding the temporal evolution of soccer match performance across competition levels. The findings emphasize the importance of periodic performance monitoring and adapting training loads increasing high-intensity distances to align with escalating physical demands in modern soccer, offering valuable guidance for coaches and performance analysts.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755642/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023605","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}
Aleksandar Borisavljević, Marko Ćosić, Goran Janković, Iva Radić, Dunja Janković, Milivoj Dopsaj
{"title":"Vibration Foam Rolling Treatment Influence on Acute Changes in Plantar Flexors Muscle Temperature and Surface Emg Activity in Amateur Male Athletes.","authors":"Aleksandar Borisavljević, Marko Ćosić, Goran Janković, Iva Radić, Dunja Janković, Milivoj Dopsaj","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010025","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010025","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background/Objectives:</b> Foam rolling is widespread and deeply rooted in exercise practice. The optimal duration and role of this treatment still lack scientific consensus. A relatively novel foam rolling treatment that combines vibration during application targets different muscle characteristics that are not well understood. Studies exploring this combined treatment are scarce. The aim of this study was set to investigate the acute effects of different duration vibration (15 s, 30 s, and 60 s) foam rolling treatment (VFRt) on muscle skin temperature and surface muscle electromyography (<sub>s</sub>EMG) during Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contraction. <b>Methods:</b> Eighteen male subjects performed four sets of three trials of maximal isometric heel rises during three experimental sessions conducted in research laboratory. <b>Results:</b> Repeated measures of ANOVA determined that the muscle skin temperature significant difference was only found for the 30 s treatment (<i>p</i> = 0.013-0.000). For surface muscle electromyography a 30 s treatment out of all three yielded the most significant results, between pretreatment set and post-treatment set 1 (<i>p</i> = 0.01)-small effect size (Cohen's d = -0.33)-and pretreatment set to post-treatment set 3 (<i>p</i> = 0.01)-small effect size (Cohen's d = -0.30). <b>Conclusions:</b> All treatments did not produce significant differences during Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contraction heel rises, which-for practical application purposes-present a safe treatment. Future studies should investigate the acute effects of longer duration treatment on changes in surface muscle temperature. In terms of practical application, other findings suggest that muscle efficiency was improved taken into account of unchanged muscle strength along with decreased <sub>s</sub>EMG, which is beneficial. Also, the downward trend of muscle activity caused by the other two treatment durations could be of significance for practical application during rehabilitation process or during activities where this is a desired and indicated goal. In terms of targeting elevated muscle activity, 30 s of VFRt is the treatment of choice.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755668/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023623","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}
Patricio Barria, Asterio Andrade, Alejandro Yelincic, Bessié Córdova, Felipe Covarrubias-Escudero, Carlos Cifuentes, Juan Pablo Appelgren-Gonzalez
{"title":"Impact of a Long-Term Home-Based Rehabilitation Program on Quality of Life, Balance, and Autonomy in Adults with Disabilities.","authors":"Patricio Barria, Asterio Andrade, Alejandro Yelincic, Bessié Córdova, Felipe Covarrubias-Escudero, Carlos Cifuentes, Juan Pablo Appelgren-Gonzalez","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010024","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010024","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Rehabilitation is a critical process for enhancing functionality, independence, and quality of life in individuals with disabilities. Grounded in the biopsychosocial model, it addresses physical, emotional, and social dimensions through personalized, evidence-based interventions. By integrating standardized assessments and continuous evaluation, rehabilitation has the potential to promote recovery and support active participation in society.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study evaluated the impact of a long-term, multidisciplinary, home-based rehabilitation program on quality of life, balance, and functional autonomy in adults with neuromusculoskeletal disabilities.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 559 participants received individualized interventions from a team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other health professionals. Functional independence, balance, depressive symptoms, and quality of life were assessed using the Barthel Index, Berg Balance Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and SF-36 questionnaire, respectively.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A longitudinal analysis comparing pre- and post-intervention outcomes revealed statistically significant improvements (<i>p</i> < 0.001) across all metrics. The Barthel Index median increased from 85 to 90 points, indicating greater functional independence, while the Berg Balance Scale improved from 39 to 47 points, reflecting reduced fall risk. Depressive symptoms decreased, with Beck Depression Inventory scores dropping from 12 to 9, and both physical and mental health components of the SF-36 showed marked enhancements.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>These findings demonstrate the program's effectiveness in addressing both physical and emotional needs, emphasizing the value of extended, personalized, home-based care in improving health, autonomy, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This study underscores the potential of multidisciplinary approaches to support long-term rehabilitation in diverse populations.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755656/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023715","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}
Yu-Li Wang, Hsin-Yueeh Su, Chao-Min Cheng, Kuei-Chen Lee
{"title":"Evaluation of Optimized Lumbar Oblique X-Ray Angles with Positioning Assistance for Enhanced Imaging Quality: A Pilot Study in an Asian Cohort.","authors":"Yu-Li Wang, Hsin-Yueeh Su, Chao-Min Cheng, Kuei-Chen Lee","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010023","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010023","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Objective:</b> Pars fractures are a common cause of lower back pain, especially among young individuals. Although computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning are commonly used in developed regions, traditional radiography remains the main diagnostic method in many developing countries. This study assessed whether the standard radiographic angles suggested in textbooks are optimal for an Asian population since Asian groups have lower lumbar lordosis. This study found a 35° angle to be the most effective angle for lumbar oblique X-ray imaging. Additionally, the potential for a customized positioning auxiliary device was examined to improve image quality and reduce patient discomfort in cost-sensitive healthcare settings like Taiwan's single-payer system. <b>Methods:</b> A total of 100 participants underwent lumbar oblique radiography using a specially designed footboard with angle markings. Radiologists evaluated 600 images based on waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body mass index to identify the optimal angulation for various body types. <b>Results:</b> For individuals with a WHR of 0.85, a 35° angle provided superior image quality, while 45° was more effective for slimmer patients. This optimized approach indicates the cost-effectiveness and diagnostic value of traditional X-ray imaging. <b>Conclusions:</b> The 35° angulation standardizes lumbar X-ray imaging for an Asian cohort, reducing repeat scans and improving accuracy. Using a positioning device further enhances image quality and patient comfort, supporting the clinical utility of traditional radiography in resource-limited environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755554/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023698","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}
Marina Ribeiro Paulini, Mariangeles Aimone, Sara Feldman, Daniela Vieira Buchaim, Rogerio Leone Buchaim, João Paulo Mardegan Issa
{"title":"Relationship of Chronic Stress and Hypertension with Bone Resorption.","authors":"Marina Ribeiro Paulini, Mariangeles Aimone, Sara Feldman, Daniela Vieira Buchaim, Rogerio Leone Buchaim, João Paulo Mardegan Issa","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010021","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010021","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background/Objectives:</b> Chronic exposure to stress has been considered a risk factor for hypertension, which is also associated with increased bone resorption. This review aimed to investigate the effect of acute and chronic stress, associated with hypertension, on the skeletal system. <b>Methods:</b> A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published in English. We include experimental, clinical, and peer-reviewed studies focused on the relationship between stress, hypertension, and bone resorption. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase and Scopus, with the last search completed on 10 September 2024. <b>Results:</b> The main topics include situations that favor bone loss, such as psychological stress, which can lead to osteoporotic fractures through immunological and endocrine mechanisms. The relationship between psychological stress and loss of bone density, as in osteoporosis, occurs due to the reduction in the number of osteoblasts and loss in the balance between physiological formation/resorption. <b>Conclusions:</b> Chronic stress significantly affects cardiovascular health and bone resorption. This narrative review study highlights the vulnerability of the skeletal system, along with the cardiovascular system, to prolonged stress, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary strategies in preventing stress-related conditions. Effective stress management can help reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease and bone resorption, emphasizing their role in comprehensive health care.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755563/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023385","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}
Miloš M Milošević, Nenad Koropanovski, Marko Vuković, Branislav Božović, Filip Kukić, Miloš R Mudrić, Andreas Stamatis, Milivoj Dopsaj
{"title":"Exploring the Interplay of Handgrip Neuromuscular, Morphological, and Psychological Characteristics in Tactical Athletes and General Population: Gender- and Occupation-Based Specific Patterns.","authors":"Miloš M Milošević, Nenad Koropanovski, Marko Vuković, Branislav Božović, Filip Kukić, Miloš R Mudrić, Andreas Stamatis, Milivoj Dopsaj","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10010022","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10010022","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/objectives: </strong>The correlation of handgrip strength (HGS) and morphological characteristics with Big Five personality traits is well documented. However, it is unclear whether these relationships also exist in highly trained and specialized populations, such as tactical athletes, and whether there are specific differences compared to the general population. This study aimed to explore the interplay of handgrip neuromuscular, morphological, and psychological characteristics in tactical athletes and the general population of both genders.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The research was conducted on a sample of 205 participants. A standardized method, procedure, and equipment (Sports Medical solutions) were used to measure the isometric neuromuscular characteristics of the handgrip. Basic morphological characteristics of body height, body mass, and body mass index were measured with a portable stadiometer and the InBody 720 device. Psychological characteristics were assessed with the Mental Toughness Index and Dark Triad Dirty Dozen questionnaires.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Numerous significant correlations were obtained, as well as differences between tactical athletes and the general population of both genders. The most prominent correlations were between the excitation index with Psychopathy and the Dark Triad (ρ = -0.41, -0.39) in female tactical athletes, as well as Neuroticism with body height, maximal force, and the maximum rate of force development in the male general population (ρ = 0.49, 0.43, 0.41). The obtained results also revealed gender and occupational specific patterns of researched relationships.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Although the results of this study indicated the possibility of the existence of correlations between handgrip neuromuscular, morphological, and psychological characteristics in tactical athletes of both genders, nevertheless, at the moment, there is not enough solid evidence for that. That is why new research is needed. An analysis of muscle contractile and time parameters as neuromuscular indicators in the HGS task proved to be a possible promising method, which brought numerous new insights about the researched relationships. For practical application in the field, we propose including Mental Toughness and the Dark Triad traits in the selection process for future police officers and national security personnel based on the obtained results.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11755586/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143023701","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}