6 international congress of physical education, sports and ... · hamstrings, in sprint-hurdles,...

$: 6 International Congress of Physical Education, Sports and ... · hamstrings, in sprint-hurdles, Achilles tendinopathy in jumps-sprint-hurdles, chronic knee pains and stress fractures$
6th International Congress of Physical Education, Sports and Kinetotherapy

Bucharest, 15 - 18 June, 2016

USING COMPUTER SOFTWARE TO DETERMINE AN ATTACK HIT MODEL FOR WOMEN’S JUNIOR TEAMS

Adin-Marian COJOCARU a*, Marilena COJOCARU a

a* Spiru Haret University, Berceni Street 24, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract: Problem: Achieving top performance nowadays is no longer possible without a large volume of multi- and interdisciplinary data and the technology that enables high training efficiency. Based on realistic strategies, the aforementioned data and technology would permit the identification of those reference points which offer the safest ways to achieve team objectives within any given context. At the same time, having the right technological equipment and means to develop it further has also become necessary in order to keep up the pace at a global level.

Purpose: We hypothesize that, by studying the data collected and analyzed by the Data Volley software, and by applying that to training and competitive play, the efficiency of the volleyball techniques of Romanian players will increase and lead to the establishing of a national attack hit model.

Premise Study: The following study is noteworthy and innovative in that it analyses a tool little used by junior volleyball teams in Romania, the Data Volley software.

Research methods: The following methods were used: scientific research, statistical analysis, observation, case study and comparative analysis.

Discussion and conclusions: At the FIVB Volleyball Women’s U20 World Championship, Romania’s National Team was able to perform on the same level as other participating teams by using the Data Volley software. Through this tool, it was possible to track the evolution of each player in the court, especially the spikers. The information collected by Data Volley, regardless of the fact that both the attack hit efficiency and number of points scored increased, confirms the hypothesis according to which a national women’s junior team attack hit model can in fact be established.

Keywords: efficiency; model; volleyball; juniors; computer software.

6th International Congress of Physical Education, Sports and Kinetotherapy Bucharest, 15 - 18 June, 2016

Biomechanical Aspects on Uppercut Punch

Irina BAITEL a*, Dan DELIU b

a* Liceul Teoretic Dante Alighieri, Aleea Fuiorului nr. 9, sect. 3, Bucharest, Romania b UNEFS str. Constantin Noica nr. 114, sect.1, Bucharest, Romania * Irina Baitel: [email protected] Abstract. On the basis of the methodology presented in previous works, but adapted as necessary, in this article we present some biomechanical aspects of uppercut punch. The uppercut punch is used in some combat sports (boxing, kick-boxing, Thai-boxing) with an upward trajectory, targeting the opponent's chin or solar plexus. Alongside the hook and swing, uppercut is one of the power punches (according to statistics). This is an observational study. The subject of the research is the World Champion in full-contact kick-boxing this year on the 63 kg weight division. The data acquisition was performed using the MOVEN equipment in the Sports Club Ciprian Sora’s dojo. The athlete executed ten full-contact upper-cut strikes in a 40 kg suspended boxing bag. The obtained data using the MOVEN equipment are processed in Excel. After calculating the spatial position and interest’s segments velocity, the wrist’s acceleration and intersegmental angles, we established the time limits of composing sequences of the movement and we calculated the average velocity of the fist intersegmental angles, maximum velocity of the fist and and the minimum acceleration of the fist. We watched intersegmentar angles evolution in these movement sequences and we focused on the kinetic coupling of the lower body with the upper body reflected by the correlation of the hips and shoulders line (concepts presented in earlier works). We also tried to define the impact through the cinematic parameters looking at the fist’s trajectory projection in the horrizontal plane, keeping the trace of the fist at every frame and correlating the changes of the trajectory with the acceleration. Keywords: uppercut; biomechanical analysis; MOVEN


Running versus Swimming in the Higher Aerobic Preparation of Water Polo Players – Junior III

Gheorghe MARINESCUa, Laurențiu Daniel TICALĂa*, Adrian RĂDULESCUa, Andrei Tiberiu PETREa a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The game of water polo is characterized as a metabolic effort performed in a higher aerobiosis zone (VO2max), with anaerobic penetrations. In our research, we start from the premise that water polo coaches wrongly/excessively use dry-land running, without taking into account that its specificity has no connection with the in-water effort specificity. To demonstrate the lack of positive transfer between running as a training means and in-water specific effort, we compared the athletes’ reaction to a dry-land endurance test with the response of their bodies to a specific higher endurance test in the water environment. Purpose: To determine the dynamics of dry-land nonspecific effort and in-water specific effort, and to establish the degree of correlation between the investigated parameters. Hypothesis: Using running as a training means for water polo players is not relevant to their in-water specific preparation. Methods: The research is focused on an ascertaining pedagogical experiment with a single variable. Two tests were used to measure/assess the higher aerobic effort zone: on dry land – 5-minute endurance test; in the water – T2000 test. Statistical and mathematical methods: arithmetic mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, coefficient of determination (r2), Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test, graphical representation. Results: Data obtained from the 5-minute endurance test establish an average value of maximal aerobic velocity (VMA) equal to 12.75km/h; data obtained from the T2000 test establish an arithmetic average time per 100m, out of the 2000m, equal to 1:34:87 minutes and an average travel speed equal to 0.94 m/s.

Keywords: water polo, 5-minute endurance test - on dry land, T2000 test - in the water, VMA.

mailto:[email protected]


Diagnosis of Higher Aerobic Exercise Capacity in Junior II Football Players

Gheorghe MARINESCUa, Laurențiu Daniel TICALĂa*, Victor DULCEAȚĂa, Diana SIMAb a* National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, sector 6, Bucharest, Romania b “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 37 Dionisie Lupu Street, sector 2, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The effort characteristic to football game falls within the metabolic zones of higher aerobiosis (anaerobic threshold and VO2 max), interpenetrated by anaerobic metabolic zones (tolerance to lactic acid accumulation and power). The research premise starts from the idea that, by knowing/diagnosing the level of higher aerobic zone, we can influence the specific training preparation in order to increase exercise capacity during the game and achieve top performances. The research purpose is to know the level of higher aerobic exercise capacity for establishing the maximal potential of junior II football players. Setting the level of higher aerobic exercise capacity during training can provide football coaches with information/predictions regarding the team’s performance during the game, which represents the research hypothesis. The subjects are athletes registered at two football clubs entered in the Municipal Championship of Bucharest. For measurement/assessment, there are used the following specific tests: 5-minute endurance test, 240m endurance-speed test and maximal aerobic velocity (MAV). As statistical and mathematical methods, there were used: arithmetic mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient, graphical representation. Results: The average distance covered in the 5-minute endurance test is 1311m for the athletes from CSS1 and 1347m for the athletes from FC Dinamo Club. The average VAM value expressed during the 5-minute endurance test is 15.73km/h for the CSS1 athletes and 16.17km/h for the FC Dinamo athletes. After analysing the obtained data, we can conclude that testing the exercise capacity during training can provide information on sports performance during the game.

Keywords: football, 5-minute endurance test, 240m shuttle run test, MAV.



Biomechanical Factors Associated with the Knee Injury Risk

in Athletic Horizontal Jumps

Corina IVAN a

a* National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, 060057, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Part of the set of basic motor skills, the jump, which can be more or less refined, is used as a motor gesture within a wide range of sports activities. It is present in almost all sports disciplines. For some, the goal is to move the body as high as possible on a certain trajectory in order to obtain the time frame needed to perform specific movements (gymnastics, skating, dancing, athletics). For others, the objective is to quickly move towards a clear target, which might be the basket (in basketball) or the net (in volleyball). When the take-off is performed on both feet, injuries are much rarer. In athletics, the four jumps, regardless of their category (basic or derived ones), have an identical basic mechanism and the same goal: a flight as long as possible before landing on sand or as high as possible while avoiding to dislodge the horizontal bar. But jumping involves the one-foot take-off, which means that the foot is twofold overloaded. By its explosive nature, the take-off represents a set of potentially traumatising actions, especially for the knee. This paper highlights the connection between some biomechanical aspects of jumping and microtraumatic pathology of the knee.

Keywords: jumping events; biomechanics; injury; knee

1. Introduction

The practice of performance sports is a challenge for both traumatology and sports medicine, because obtaining valuable results cannot be achieved any longer only through training, but it also includes, in addition to diet, medication, physical and mental recovery, an increasingly important aspect, namely the prevention and rehabilitation of injuries. Although athletics is known by all and practiced on five continents, there is very little information available on the risk factors, the rate, incidence or typology of injuries in this sport. Currently, there are more and more often reported injuries of the muscular system, consequences of practicing performance athletics. Their large diversity is reflected in the variety of events, the constraints being different in explosive disciplines (sprint, steeplechase, jumping, throwing) compared to the endurance ones (middle-distance, long-distance races). Thus, there is a preponderance of thigh muscle injuries, especially the hamstrings, in sprint-hurdles, Achilles tendinopathy in jumps-sprint-hurdles, chronic knee pains and stress fractures in middle-distance and long-distance events (Edouard et al., 2011, p. 310). Any athlete may experience knee injuries, in any competitive circumstances and at any age. There is no immunity to such pain, but only, as previously mentioned, some theories about those athletes presenting a higher risk for (more) serious injuries. To reduce the possibility of such damage, there are usually considered the factors that can be modified. Some of them are associated with the athlete’s technique during the take-off or landing. Other risk factors are correlated with the power deficit in the hips, hamstrings and quadriceps. Once identified, the training will focus on certain areas, the weak ones, in order to reduce the risk of injury. We can thus assert that learning, but especially practicing the horizontal jumps, should rely on a detailed biomechanical analysis, because observation alone does not help the coaches to perceive all the important technical elements. Also, to prevent injuries, the interpretation of kinematic and biomechanical studies should become a common practice within the wide framework of coaching science. In developing this research, we have started from the following findings:

- the incidence of injuries in athletics, and particularly in jumpers, is recording an upward trend; - the knowledge of some biomechanical aspects relating to the structures involved in injuries is

incomplete; - the kinetotherapist usually has an insignificant role, merely working as an appendage of the

sports physician; - very little importance is given to prophylaxis in preventing injuries.

2. Research purpose

The research aims to emphasize the connection between some biomechanical aspects of jumping and microtraumatic pathology of the knee, and also to underline the importance of prevention techniques in avoiding damages that might occur in the lower body, particularly the jumper’s knee.

3. Topic addressed

3.1. Technical conditionings

The technique used for jumping events has the same four phases, unchanged from the beginnings of modern athletics: sprinting – to reach vertical velocity, take-off – to achieve vertical flight, a flight as long as possible through the air before landing in a sandpit. Therefore, the athlete must be a fast sprinter, with strong legs, and sufficiently coordinated to perform efficiently the complex action of take-off, flight and landing. Performance in horizontal jumps is strongly determined by the speed reached during the run-up. This one aims at two major objectives: accelerating to near maximum speed and lowering the centre of gravity (CG) during the final few steps, in order to create favourable conditions for the take-off. By the end of the run-up, the athlete reaches about 95% of maximum speed; the advantage of a 100% sprinting speed is overweighed by the increased difficulty of accurately hitting the take-off board (Hay, 1986, p. 405). Actually, it is already an axiom the relationship between the run-up velocity and the jump distance. Preparing the take-off is achieved during the last 2-3 strides, when the athlete begins to descend the CG, reaching thus the low position required to generate the horizontal movement mixture, which is superposed the ascending velocity (Hay and Nohara, 1990, p. 230). In the flight phase, the athlete must control the rotation produced by the take-off and must place their body in an appropriate position for landing. Among all the sequences that outline the jumping technique, the take-off is the most important one, because it requires the athlete to generate high vertical velocity, while minimizing any reduction in horizontal velocity. In fact, the critical moments leading to traumas are the take-off (triple jump) and landing (but more rarely). The entry into the take-off is commonly performed using a “pawing” action, where the take-off leg is swept down and back towards the athlete. The take-off leg has a negative velocity relative to the athlete’s CG, but the velocity of the foot relative to the ground is not so much reduced (4-5m/s). This “active” landing technique is thought to reduce the braking force of the ground and implicitly to prevent possible injuries (Koh and Hay, 1990, p. 365)

3.2. Biomechanical constraints

Although the long jump performance is primarily determined by vertical velocity when leaving the take-off board, the concerted action which produces it (take-off - vertical jump) has not enjoyed the attention of researchers specialized in the biomechanics of jumping events. The few studies achieved to determine vertical velocity gained during the vertical jump have highlighted its importance in reaching success, along with some significant data. Contact with the take-off board, occurring before the projection of CG, is followed by the knee flexion (and therefore the pre-tensioning of take-off leg muscles), after which, through a fast extension

movement, the leg pivots upward and forward, causing the jumper to become a genuine human projectile (Linthorne et al., 2005, p. 705). Bending is the consequence of forces arising during the take-off, it is inevitable and at the same time limited by the eccentric muscle strength. Through his mechanism, the muscle groups that are to perform motor work will work first against resistance, favouring the emergence of positive acceleration force. The knee flexion during absorption is up to 150°-160° at the most. If the value of this angle is exceeded, the impulsion extension will occur later, which results in reducing the flight height and the length of the jump. On the contrary, if the leg is less bent when leaving the take-off board, a braking and overloading effect will occur in a jump which is relatively high but not long enough. Pivoting is the most important mechanism through which the ascending velocity is generated: over 60% of the athlete’s final vertical velocity (Lees, Graham-Smith and Fowler, 1994, p. 65). But vertical propulsion is preceded by an undesirable slowdown. In valuable jumpers, one can usually note a short duration of the braking shock (0.02 s). The athlete’s personal experience, sense of take-off and reactive ability will determine the optimal ratio between the braking shock and the explosive acceleration action during the extremely short moment of the take-off phase. Vastus muscles and soleus and gastrocnemius muscles as well pass, during the take-off, through a sequence of stretch-shortening actions (Hay, 1986, p. 63). The maximal activation of muscles keeps the leg as straight as possible when leaving the take-off board. Extension in the hip, knee and ankle joints, supported by the vigorous action of arms and free leg, is explosive (Bridgett and Linthorne, 2006, p. 893).

3.3. Microtraumatic pathology of the knee

According to Popescu (2015), the jumper’s knee is a pathological entity represented by the inflammation or the presence of an injury to the patellar tendon. Patellar tendon is a continuation of the quadriceps tendon, which goes from the top of the patella to the anterior tibial tuberosity. Its function is, by connecting the patella with the shinbone, to transfer the contraction force to the quadriceps, achieving thus extension of the knee. This disorder is also known as patellar tendinopathy, with two representations: tendinitis, in acute situation, and tendinosis, in the situation of chronicity.

3.3.1. Mechanism of action

Patellar tendinitis is a condition frequently reported in sports which involve explosive jumps, particularly in long jumpers and high jumpers. In these cases, the knee loading is 7 times greater than body weight (Brown, 2009). When performing the long jump take-off, the patellar tendon is extremely strained. After reaching the take-off board, the muscle-tendon complex of the quadriceps works eccentrically, but very soon, it will have to contribute with a strong contraction to the knee extension. The concentric-type contraction occurs as explosively as possible, which increases once more time the pressure on the tendon.

3.3.2. Causality

It can be asserted that patellar tendinitis is an overuse injury which characterizes the tendon degeneration. It occurs when the extensor mechanism of the knee, the patellar tendon, is subjected to repetitive overloading, which causes small tears. Simultaneously with the increase in the number of tears, inflammation occurs, accompanied by pain and the weakening of tendon structure. When this injury persists more than a few weeks, it can be considered tendinopathy (fig. 1) and, in extreme cases, the patellar tendon may cause a complete rupture. Numerically, the percentage of athletes suffering from patellar tendinitis is 20%, where the ratio by gender is 2: 1 man to women. In 90% of cases, the symptoms disappear with the interruption of performance activity (Brown, 2009).

3.3.3. Symptomatology

The patient-athletes with patellar tendinitis feel pains in the anterior part of the knee, very close to the patella. The symptoms of patellar tendinitis were grouped into 4 stages. In stage 1, the pain occurs only after an activity. In stage 2, the pain is present at the beginning of an activity, seems to dissipate for a while after warming up, and then reappears after the activity. In this stage, the athlete’s performance is not usually affected. In stage 3, the pain occurs during and after the activity, this time affecting the athlete’s performance. In stage 4, the tendon ruptures, causing a chronic weakness of the tendon (Jacobson). Most jumpers, especially those with stage 1 and 2 symptoms, heal with non-surgical measures. As in any tendinitis, resting the injured area until the symptoms disappear is very important. The RICE regimen (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is also helpful to alleviate pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin or ibuprofen) can control the swelling and inflammation and strengthening the quadriceps will reduce pressure off the patellar tendon. Neoprene sleeves or braces similar to those worn by the players with tennis elbow help reduce or disperse the forces on the patella.

Fig 1. patellar tendinitis (http://www.summitmedicalgroup.com/media/db/relayhealth-images/jumpersk_3.jpg)

3.3.4. Prevention techniques

Although the treatment of patellar tendinitis is important, the first priority should be to prevent it. We present some measures that can be used for this purpose:

- balance exercises – the means which train the ability to keep balance help increase proprioceptive sensitiveness.

- stretching – to prevent patellar tendinitis, it is important for the muscles grouped around the knee to be in very good condition, and preparation must ensure flexibility in all muscle groups of the lower limb.

- footwear for training. A suitable pair of shoes, purposely designed for the performed event, provides appropriate absorption, helps the knee to remain stable and supports it during the run.

- adhesive tapes – provide additional support and stability for the weakened knees. - avoiding hard surfaces in the preparation process.

4. Discussions

http://www.summitmedicalgroup.com/media/db/relayhealth-images/jumpersk_3.jpg

The generalization of sports phenomenon was followed by an increase in the number of athletes with acute traumatic pathologies. Patellar tendinitis, the medical term for jumper’s knee, is frequently reported in many sports, besides the overuse injuries, and the activities causing it are repetitive running and jumping, possibly their combination. Despite its name, this suffering does not affect only the jumping athletes. According to Popescu (2015), nowadays it is the most common condition in recreational athletes, where any repetitive movement, such as in aerobics, jogging, walking or biking, may lead to jumper’s knee, and this is worsened by the use of footwear inappropriate to the type of activity performed. It can also be present within some repetitive professional activities, during intense physical exercises, in people with static disorders or misalignments at the foot level, possibly overweight, and in children as well. Despite this varied distribution, in the top of the most affected people, there are the volleyball players, basketball players, gymnasts, football players, but especially the long jump and triple jump athletes. It has also been found that the sports practiced on hard surfaces increase the incidence of tendinitis, mainly the patellar one. Our paper aimed to redefine sports training in order to reach and maintain an appropriate physical fitness, suggesting some directions to follow in achieving the prevention of injuries.

5. Conclusions

Activities involving a large amount of jumps and rapid changes of direction are particularly stressful for the patellar tendon, and the practitioners of basketball, volleyball, football and athletics are the most vulnerable to this injury. Although excessive overuse is the main cause of patellar tendinitis, there are also other conditions favouring it. These ones are related to inadequate physical fitness (unequal development of antagonistic and agonistic muscle groups, inconsistencies in neuromuscular coordination, decreased flexibility and strength of tendons and ligaments, reduced muscular elasticity) or the athlete’s ability to perform correctly/efficiently the motor gesture (take-off). In athletics, chronic tendon pains and acute muscle soreness appear frequently, primarily in the lower body, mostly in the strong leg, and the severity of injuries often requires interrupting sports activity for at least one month. Since the consequences are so important for the athlete, prevention becomes a major issue. Thus, there have been developed strategies to prevent such injuries through programs designed for strengthening the muscle mass (increase in strength and flexibility of the quadriceps and hamstring), for stretching, and also workouts based on eccentric contractions. In particular, the preseason preparation should focus on gradually increasing the number and intensity of eccentric contraction in the quadriceps muscle, so as the tendon can resist the repetitive tasks. This measure is able to prevent the inflammatory process. In conclusion, patellar tendinitis is a common injury of the patellar tendon, with a negative impact on the athlete’s carrier. So far, there is no treatment that guarantees quick recovery and return to the initial level. Consequently, the best treatment to restore the balance between effort and the ability to stand it is an extended rehabilitation program. This paper draws attention to the necessity to constantly adapt the preparation strategies, based on the principles of modern physiology and sports biomechanics. Thus, the training for jumping events must be (re)considered in terms of injury prevention, because theoretically all musculoskeletal injuries can be prevented if this one is correctly initiated and conducted through appropriate physical preparation. We also believe that, to complement the information on injuries in athletics and especially to understand the concept of risk factors, including here the biomechanical mechanism, further prospective epidemiological studies are needed.

References

Edouard, P. et al. (2011). Prevention of musculoskeletal injuries in track and field. Review of epidemiological data. Science & Sports, pp. 307-315.

Hay, J.G. (1986). Biomechanics of the long jump. Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews, pp. 401‐446. Hay, J.G. & Nohara, H. (1990). Techniques used by elite long jumpers in preparation for take-off. Journal of

Biomechanics, 23, pp. 229-239. Koh, T., & Hay, J. (1990). Landing Leg Motion and Performance in the Horizontal Jumps. International Journal of

Sport Biomechanics. 6, pp. 361-373 Linthorne, N.P., Guzman MS, & Bridgett, L. A. (2005). Optimum take-off angle in the long jump. Journal of Sports

Sciences, 23 (7), pp. 703-712. Lees, A., Graham-Smith, P., & Fowler, N. (1994). A biomechanical analysis of the last stride, touchdown, and

takeoff characteristics of the men’s long jump. Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 10, pp. 61–78. Bridgett, L.A., &, Linthorne, N.P. (2006). Changes in long jump take-off technique with increasing run-up speed.

Journal of Sports Sciences, 24, pp. 889–897. Popescu, A. (2015). Jumper knee. În Articole de specialitate. Revista Galenus, București Brown, J., (2009). Jumper's Knee: The Complete Guide. http://www.coreperformance.com/knowledge/injury-

pain/jumpers-knee.html Jacobson, K., Jumper's Knee. http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_13_4_4.htm

http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_13_4_4.htm


Algorithmic program - support in learning of "Danilova forward" on beam

Silvia Alexandra STROESCU a*

UNEFS, Str. Constantin Noica, Nr. 140, Sector 6,C.P. 060057 Bucureşti, România * Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. Objectives: The objective of this paper is to increase the learning efficiency of "Free (aerial) walkover forward, landing on one foot" on beam by exploiting gymnasts internal factors of performance and shortening the assimilation time of technical elements using algorithmic programs.Methods of research: Experimental research involves the selection and adjustment of the most efficient means for specific physical and technical training requiered in learning "Free (aerial) walkover forward, landing on one foot" on beam. I also bring evidence to evaluate in an objective and gradual manner the technical preparation of gymnasts through all three series of algorithmic program.Results: I find significant and consistent differences between gymnasts execution in initial testing relative to final testing. This implies that learning of any elements should be based on algorithmic program to ensure the perfect execution. Conclusions: The difference between the performance of the two groups of gymnasts in executing "Free (aerial) walkover forward, landing on one foot" on beam indicates that the proposed objective has been achieved. The results obtained by the two tested groups of gymnasts, have shown that algorithmic program that I have created makes a huge difference in performance score, difference which can mean an Olympic medal.

Keywords: algorithmic program; Danilova forward; beam.


Speed and agility analysis on soccer players of “under 10s”

and “under 12s” age groups.

Samuel HONÒRIOa, Marco BATISTAa, Júlio MARTINSb, Rui PAULOa, João PETRICAc, Pedro MENDESd

aInstituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco – Sports and Well-being Department, Portugal; RECI (Research on Education and Community Intervention), Castelo Branco-Portugal b University of Beira Interior, Sports Science Department (CIDESD), Covilhã, Portugal c Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco – Sports and Well-being Department, Portugal; FCT and CI&DETS (PEst-OE/CED/UI4016/2011) d Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco – Sports and Well-being Department, Portugal * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Objective: This study pretends to analyse the agility and speed by the application of T Test, Agility Test, and a speed test of 20m to athletes from youth teams in the levels of “under 10” and “under 12”. Methods: The sample consisted in 39 young football players, all male. The tests were performed on a synthetic sports field, assessments made by grade and categorized according to the tables of FitnessGram tests. Results: We have found that the players with the highest agility were the fastest players, and it was observed that both variables of agility and speed increased their performance as the age of the athletes increased also. Conclusions: We conclude that there are positive relationships between agility and speed, with significant results in these variables, where it’s observable that the performance of their results increases with their age. Keywords: T – Test; Agility Test; FitnessGram; Young Players



Preliminary Evaluation For Children Tennis Players-age 11-

14 Years Old

Gheorghe MARINESCUa, Mihaela BUZĂRNESCUb*, Mihai BUZĂRNESCUc, Victor DULCEAŢĂd

a UNEFS, Constantin Noica 140, Bucharest, 060057, Romania. b* C.S. Dinamo Bucharest, Romania. c LPS Mircea Eliade, 211 Splaiul Independentei Street, Bucharest, Romania d CS.S.1 Bucharest * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The tennis game, as sports, has contributed to the complex and multilateral development of the frail body of the child, with influences in the biological, psychological, social and communication areas of the young performer. The dynamic and diverse effort based on the basic and special driving skills requires practical exercise for the purpose of forming a general and at the same time special, driving background. The particularity of the tennis game, using the ball and racket in the technical-tactics actions, widened and diversified the driving potential of the child. The doctoral dissertation aims to outline the existing correlation between the physical, technical-tactics preparation, and the driving and motional capacities, as well as the practical ways to improve these parts of the game at the level of children, aged 11-14 years old. Keywords: tennis player; psychomotor; preliminary study; driving skills.


The Effects of Induced Emotions on Working Memory, Creativity, Repetition Speed and Precision: A Pilot Study

Radu PREDOIU a*, Georgeta MITRACHE a, Alexandra PREDOIU a a N.U.P.E.S. Bucharest, Constantin Noica, No. 140, 060057, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Working memory is a temporary storage system under attentional control (we store, on short-term, relevant informations) that underpins our capacity for complex though (involves data processing). Regarding creativity, especially fluency, it refers to the total number of generated responses, ideas, in a certain time. Repetition speed represents a conditional motor capacity, while precision is part of the coordinative capacities, both being components of the motor capacities. Emotion is a short-lived, subjective transitory state, that momentarily interrupts otherwise steady functioning with sudden and unexpected physiological and behavioral changes. It is known that emotions affect thinking, which, in turn, influences the emotional state. The purpose of our study aimed to examine the effects of induced positive and negative emotions (fear and sadness) on working memory, creativity, repetition speed and precision. The participants were 38 male athletes, aged between 20 and 22 years old, practicing football and martial arts (karate and taekwondo). In order to resolve the research issues, we used: GAPED – the Geneva affective picture database, tests – Working Memory test (within CAS++ tests), elaborated by Cognitrom, Creativity test (adapted after Torrance et al.), “Tapping” test from the Mac-Quarrie aptitudes battery and SPSS 20 for statistical processing of data. Using the Wilcoxon test for two related samples we highlighted significant differences at the end of the emotion induction procedure, in the case of athletes. This study results underline that there are different effects of induced positive and negative emotions (fear and sadness) on working memory, creativity (fluency), repetition speed and precision.

Keywords: working memory; creativity; repetition speed; precision; emotions.

1. Introduction

Working memory is a temporary storage system under attentional control (we store, on short-term, relevant informations) that underpins our capacity for complex though, involving data processing (Baddeley, 2007, p. 1). Defining working memory as a space supposing both storage and processing informations, allows a clear delimitation of the short-term memory, which is defined only as a process implying temporary storage of data. Working-memory is highly related to general intelligence (Süß et al., 2002), being involved in a wide range of real-world cognitive tasks, such as understanding, reasoning and problem solving (Engle, 2002). Language comprehension is just one of the many examples of working memory’s involvement in superior cognitive processes. Working memory plays a special role in tasks supposing decision making, planning and finding the proper solutions in complex situations (Baddeley, 1986, p. 228). Cowan et al. (2007) believe that speed processing is the key-factor that distinguishes people who manifest a better or a weaker working memory. Creativity is seen as the ability to produce work that is both unexpected, original and appropriate, useful (Sternberg, 1999, p. 3). People with high creativity level offer varied responses when confronting with the same object. Guilford had remarked that creativity can be measured through divergent thinking test (Hussain, 1988, p. 4). Divergent thinking includes fluency, originality, mental flexibility, elaboration and evaluative abilities. Divergent thinking implies that the stored data are scanned, thoughts flow in diversified direction and possible solution are searched. Regarding fluency (the major component of creativity that we used in our research) it refers to the rate of production of all units within all classes. Fluency is measured through all the generated informations, through the total amount of ideas (Roco, 2004, p. 210). Repetition speed or the frequency of the movements represents a conditional motor capacity, which consists in the ability to perform an identical number of moves in a predetermined time (Tudor and Gherghel, 2011, p. 48). The conditional motor capacities are directly dependent on physical condition, being based on the metabolic efficiency of the muscles and other systems (respiratory, nervous, cardiovascular). Precision is part of the coordinative capacities. The coordinative capacities are

determined by the processes of gesture control, steerage and they are required for mastering situations supposing quick and rational actions (Tudor, 2005, p. 123). Both repetition speed and precision are components of the motor capacities. Football and martial arts (karate and taekwondo) represent sports requiring a fast adaptation of movements, a quick data processing and decision making, depending on new perceptual conditions. Thus, the investigated dimensions (working memory, creativity, speed and precision as motor capacities) are very important for the individual/team success. Emotion is a short-lived, subjective transitory state, that momentarily interrupts otherwise steady functioning with sudden and unexpected physiological and behavioral changes (Cashmore, 2008, p. 145). The investigations of the emotional influences require the induction of emotions to establish their effects (Martin, 1990). It is known that emotions affect thinking, which, in turn, influences the emotional state. Johnson and Tversky (1983) mentioned that emotion can profoundly influence a lot of cognitive functions. The researchers are right, but in which direction? We ask this question because the research findings are quite contradictory. Raghunathan and Pham (1999) have found that people who experienced sadness manifested preferences towards high-risk options and were not afraid to lose. However, Yuen and Lee (2002) produced opposite findings. Thus, the authors found that people in induced depressed mood were not willing to take so many risks as the people in positive mood or neutral mood. This fact was explained by Jorgensen (1998) – for these people the world is perceived as a threatening place and in such conditions they are more careful to avoid potential loss. Specialized literature outlines another contradictory finding concerning the effects of induced negative emotions. Ellis and Ashbrook (1988) determined that negative emotions interfere with people’s capacity to process data. Schwartz (1990) highlights that negative emotions alert people about an existing problem. Consequently, people process data in a more vigilant way, using rational strategies and therefore, the decision process takes longer. On the other hand, Fiedler (1988) asserts that negative emotions can lead to a weaker attention and a failure in searching new alternatives – thus, the decision process is faster. Likewise, concerning the effects of induced negative emotions, researchers revealed that people experiencing negative emotions perceive (in generally) uncertainty, in a more pessimistically way, considering that their probability to win is lower (Cunningham, 1988). On the effects of induced positive emotions, the research states, also, a discrepancy between the results. Isen et al. (1987) assert that people who are experiencing positive emotions use a more simplified processing style, the decision making process being faster. Mackie and Worth (1991) found that positive emotions lead to superficial thinking and to a poor judgment, because positive emotions transmit the idea that the environment is safe. In these conditions, people tend to reduce the motivation to scrutinise data. Nevertheless, Isen (2000, 2001) mentions that positive emotions facilitate careful processing, leading to a more efficient decision. The author established that positive emotions promote efficiency and the decision making process is faster. Also, about the effects of induced positive emotions it was found that happiness facilitates helping and generosity to others. Yet, if helping someone will destroy people’s own positive emotional states, the participants (with induced positive emotions) seem to help less than subjects from the “control group” (Isen and Simmonds, 1978). Regarding the observed differences between the effects of positive and negative emotions, we must say that the investigations differ in terms of the emotion induction procedure and in terms of the emotion manipulation check. As Gerrards-Hesse et al. (1994) stated, there are various methods for emotion induction, for example: mental imagery recall of different experiences, reading emotionally loaded sentences, presenting movies, pictures or music. The purpose of our study aimed to examine the effects of induced positive and negative emotions (fear and sadness) on working memory, creativity, repetition speed and precision.

2. Materials and methods

2.1. Participants A total number of 38 male athletes, aged between 20 and 22 years old, practicing football and martial arts (karate and taekwondo) have participated at the research. Their training/competitive experience is comprised between 7 and 12 years. The male athletes were divided in four groups, that played the role of the independent variable: “positive group” (positive emotions were induced), “negative-fear group”

(fear was induced), “negative-sadness group” (sadness was induced) and “control group” (no emotions were induced). The participants (students at the National University of Physical Education and Sport Bucharest) were randomly assigned to the four groups, with 10, respectively 8 athletes in each condition (in the case of the “control group”, there were 8 participants). Each group includes an equal number of athletes practicing football and martial arts. 2.2. Apparatus and materials The apparatus and the instruments used in the research were: the computer and the projector (only fulfilled the role of support for generating positive and negative emotions); the emotion induction procedure (we used the Geneva affective picture database - GAPED); the emotion manipulation check (to verify if the desired emotions were successfully induced the athletes indicated how they felt, marking on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 means displeasure/nonarousal and 10 means pleasure/arousal, before and after the emotion induction procedure); tests: Working Memory test (within CAS++ tests, elaborated by Cognitrom), Creativity test (adapted after Torrance et al., Roco, 2004, p. 206), “Tapping” test from the Mac-Quarrie aptitudes battery and SPSS 20 for statistical processing of data. The Geneva affective picture database (GAPED) represents a relatively new and large affective multimedia database with 730 pictures. This database was created by researchers at the Swiss National Center of Competence in Research “Affective Sciences – Emotions in Individual Behavior and Social Processes” and may be downloaded from www.affective-sciences.org/researchmaterial. Pictures are stored in six separate folders, each referring to one semantic category: “positive”, “neutral”, “spiders”, “snakes”, “human concerns” and “animal mistreatments”. Each category contains over 100 images, four of them being emotionally negative (Dan-Glauser and Scherer, 2001). Pictures of snakes and spiders were selected after a review of scientific libraries. Thus, more than 300 studies have dealt with snake and/or spider phobia, such stimuli being considered of high relevance because of their evolutionary threat-related content (Öhman and Mineka, 2001). Pictures regarding “human concerns” and “animal mistreatments” were selected based on the idea that for stable communities, for the socially organized species, behaviours and rules violation are regarded as important and have a strong potential to generate an emotional response (Scherer, 1987). Therefore, the images contained by GAPED suppose a low compatibility with social and personal norms. When people evaluate pictures that contradict social/personal norms, they are experiencing sadness, pity, guilt (Sander et al., 2005). The positive category of the GAPED contains images about nature, landscapes and representing human babies and young animals. Regarding the neutral images, the pictures are representing objects, as well as buildings and furniture (we acknowledge that our research does not address to the neutral images). The “Tapping” test, part of the Mac-Quarrie aptitudes battery, consists in 70 circles (ten small circles per each row). The task of the participant is to make three points in every circle, as quickly as possible. The test lasts 10 seconds and requires repetition speed and precision. Two or four points in a circle can be translated into a lower final score. The Working Memory test (within CAS++ tests) is structured in seven series with five rows for each serie. Every row/item contains numbers and letters (can be numbers from 1 to 9 and letters from A to O). On every row, the numbers and the letters alternate, every number being followed by a letter and opposite. The elements (numbers and letters) which form a serie are growing constantly. Thus, the first serie contains 3 elements (five rows/items of 3 elements) - two numbers and one letter/one number and two letters, the second serie contains 4 elements (two numbers and two letters), while the last serie (the seventh serie) contains 9 elements (five numbers and four letters/four numbers and five letters). After the examiner is reading a row (for example, with 5 elements), the participant is required to reproduce from memory and to write all the elements – first the numbers in ascending order and then the letters in alphabetic order. The Working Memory test evaluates the storage capacity and simultaneous information processing. The Creativity test consisted in performing three tasks. Thus, the athletes were asked to identify the similarities between two objects, to identify what a figure may represent and to mention as many unusual uses of an object. The investigated participants were told that they could respond through any

http://www.affective-sciences.org/researchmaterial

ideas that they consider appropriate. The total response time was 3 minutes (one minute per each task). We scored fluency, as a major component of creativity, by the total number of generated responses.

2.3. Procedure

The study was carried out with groups of 4-18 people at a time, but only data from the participants practicing football and martial arts were included in the study (we mention that in the experiment room there were 2-6 athletes belonging to the target-group). The three tests used in the experiment: Tapping test, Working Memory test and Creativity test, were carried out by the athletes in the same day, before and immediately afterward the emotion induction procedure. In order to induce positive and negative emotions (fear and sadness), the Geneva affective picture database (GAPED) was used. The three different tests that assess cognitive and psychomotor abilities were applied, every time, in the same order, as mentioned above. To solve the three tests: Tapping, Working Memory and Creativity, generally takes about 5 minutes. Tapping test lasted 10 seconds, the Working Memory test lasted about 2 minutes and the Creativity test lasted 3 minutes. We mention that, from the whole Working Memory test, only eight items were used in the experiment – four items were used at the beginning of the study and another four items after the emotion induction procedure. The items selected were similar in terms of difficulty, with 5, 6, 7 and 8 elements - numbers and letters (items contained the same proportion of numbers and letters, before and after the emotions were induced). In the case of the Creativity test, the participants had 1 minute for each task: to identify the similarities between two objects, to identify what a figure may represent and to mention as many unusual uses of an object. Likewise, the items selected to be used, before and after the contact with the emotionally charged stimuli, were similar in terms of difficulty. The athletes were evaluated being in a repaus state (without previously practicing any physical exercise) and without a previous exposure to emotional stimuli, being in a neutral emotional state (we refer to the beginning of the experiment, before the emotion induction procedure occured). Regarding the Geneva affective picture database (GAPED), a number of 120 pictures were used, for each group, in order to induce positive and negative emotions. In our approach we used a regular computer screen and a projector. In the case of the “positive group” (positive emotion were induced), the 120 pictures consisted in nature sceneries as well as human and animal babies. For the “negative-fear group” (fear was induced), the visual stimuli were represented by spiders and snakes, while for the “negative-sadness group” (sadness was induced), the 120 images consisted in scenes involving violation of moral and legal norms (animal mistreatment and human rights violation). A stimulus was presented at every 5 seconds and the whole emotion induction procedure (for each group) lasted about 10 minutes. The participants were told that they could choose to stop the experiment at any time (no athlete decided to stop the study). In the case of the “control group”, participants did not carried out the emotion induction procedure but went straight into the test situations. Specialized literature on emotion induction (Westermann et al., 1996) suggested that an average of 15 minutes is enough to successfully allow the desired emotions to occur. In our research, as we mentioned above, the emotion induction procedure lasted 10 minutes. It was found (Lerner and Tetlock, 1999) that the effects of induced positive and negative emotions can last up to half an hour (in our study, solving the three tests - Tapping, Working Memory and Creativity, lasted about 5 minutes). As the authors highlighted, the positive and negative emotions, despite the short-lived nature, can influence subsequent cognitive functions. To verify if the positive and negative emotions were successfully induced, participants indicated how they felt giving a mark from 1 to 10, where 1 means displeasure/nonarousal and 10 means pleasure/arousal, before (having a neutral emotional state) and after the emotion induction procedure. The results were compared with the values for valence and arousal mentioned by Estupinan et al. (2014). Thus, the authors, regarding the images from GAPED, infer clear numerical variations: the positive images have lower arousal values and greater valence values, compared to neutral (when the subjects experience a neutral emotional state); the negative images have higher arousal values and lower valence values, compared to neutral (when the participant is having a neutral emotional state). For each participant, in order to verify if the emotion induction procedure was efficient, we compared the values for valence and arousal in both conditions – before (using observation and conversation as research methods, we considered that athletes are experiencing a neutral emotional state) and after the emotion

induction procedure, with the values for valence and arousal related to the images from GAPED. Thus, in the case of the “positive group” (positive emotions were induced), only the athletes who reported (at the end of the emotion induction procedure) lower arousal values and greater valence values compared with the values reported at the beginning of the experiment, were accepted in the study. Also, regarding the “negative group” (negative emotions were induced), only the athletes who reported (at the end of the emotion induction procedure) higher arousal values and lower valence values compared with the values reported at the beginning of the study, were included in the research. The results registered by the athletes at Tapping, Working Memory and Creativity tests, after the emotion induction procedure, were compared to the results obtained before the positive and negative emotion (fear and sadness) were induced.

3. Results

The investigation of the box-plot charts (in the preliminary data analysis) revealed that in the case of the scores registered by the athletes at Tapping, Working Memory and Creativity tests, there were no extreme values (outliers). Using the Wilcoxon test for two related samples (a nonparametric test), we verified if there are significant differences between the performance obtained for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity, after the emotion induction procedure and the results registered by the athletes in the beginning of the experiment. The conditions for the application of the Wilcoxon test are fulfilled (Labăr, 2008, p. 136): the dependent variables are ordinal, quantitative and the samples have a small volume (10 participants for each group, except the control group which consists of 8 participants).

Table 1. Results for Tapping, Working Memory and Creativity tests – before and after the emotion induction procedure

Variables Conditions

of the experiment

Mean Standard Deviation

Z p

“positive group” (positive emotions were induced) repetition speed and precision before 15.50 2.369 -2.503a .012 after 17.80 1.476

working memory before 22.30 2.263 -2,869a .004 after 24.50 .707 creativity - fluency before 12.20 3.084 -2,687a .007 after 14.20 3,824

“negative-fear group” (fear was induced) repetition speed and precision before 13.00 3.266 -2.677a .007 after 15.90 2.283 working memory before 22.10 2.807 -1,527a .127 after 23.50 1.900 creativity - fluency before 11.50 4.767 -,512a .609 after 11.70 4.448

“negative-sadness group” (sadness was induced) repetition speed and precision before 15.80 1.687 -2,714a .007 after 16.70 1.567 working memory before 23.80 1.814 -2,263b .024 after 22.00 3.018 creativity - fluency before 10.30 2.669 -2.414b .016 after 8.90 3.604 a. Based on negative ranks. b. Based on positive ranks.

The results from the table number 1 underline: - In the case of the “positive group” there are significant differences (p < .05) between the results for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity (fluency), obtained after the

positive emotions were induced (Median = 18, Median = 25, respectively Median = 15.5) and the results registered at the beginning of the experiment (Median = 15, Median = 23.5, respectively Median = 13). The effect size index is r = 0.56, r = 0.64, respectively r = 0.60, which shows a strong effect of the emotion induction procedure on the performance obtained by the athletes for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity. - Regarding the “negative-fear group” there are significant differences (p < .05) only between the results for repetition speed and precision, registered after fear was induced (Median = 15) and the scores obtained at the beginning of the study (Median = 12.5). The effect size index is r = 0.59, highlighting a strong effect of the emotion induction procedure on the performance obtained by the participants for repetition speed and precision. - With respect to the “negative-sadness group” there are significant differences (p < .05) between the results for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity (fluency), obtained after sadness was induced (Median = 16, Median = 22, respectively Median = 8.5) and the scores registered in the early phases of the experiment (Median = 15.5, Median = 23.5, respectively Median = 9.5). Considering the effect size index r = 0.60, r = 0.50, respectively r = 0.54, which can be translated through a strong effect of the emotion induction procedure on the results obtained for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity. We mention that in the case of the “control group” (no emotions were induced), no significant differences were found between the pretest and posttest conditions, in terms of the investigated coordinates. 4. Discussions and conclusions This research demonstrates the presence of several significant differences between the results for repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity (fluency), obtained after the emotion induction procedure and the results registered by the athletes in the early phases of the experiment (before the positive or negative emotions were induced). Although this is a pilot study, it is possible to draw some conclusions. In the case of the “positive group”, athletes practicing football and martial arts (karate and taekwondo), after the positive emotions were induced, obtained better performances for all three investigated dimensions. Thus, they registered a better repetition speed and precision, they showed a better storage and processing data capacity and they provided significantly more ideas, compared to the beginning of the study. In 1999, Lee and Sternthal found out that mood affects the strategies used by a person to process information. The authors highlight that positive emotions enhance the learning of brand names (we can observe the effect of positive emotions on memory), compared with a neutral mood. Other researchers (Bless et al., 1996) argue that positive emotions offer better access to existing mental structures. Also, Lewinsohn and Mano (1993) have specified that a person who is experiencing positive emotions tends to use more informations from those available (these evidences can explain the impact of positive emotions on working memory, creativity, repetition speed and precision, in sport domain). Regarding the “negative-fear group”, after fear was induced, athletes practicing football and martial arts, obtained better performances only for repetition speed and precision. In the case of working memory and fluency (major component of creativity), at the end of the emotion induction procedure, the athletes didn’t register significantly better or worse results. In other words, induced fear did not influence (in a statistically significant way) the ability to store and to process data or the capacity to generate ideas. It is known (Lerner and Keltner, 2000) that fear contributes to pessimistic judgments and the future events are perceived with more doubt. At a careful analysis (see table 1), our study suggests that fear (and the doubt felt) leads to an increase (but not in a statistically significant way), especially, in the case of working memory. With respect to the “negative-sadness group”, the athletes obtained better performances for repetition speed and precision and significantly worse results in the case of working memory and creativity (fluency). Thus, after sadness was induced, the football players and martial artists manifested faster and precise movements, but, in the same time, the capacity to store informations and to process data and also, the ability to produce ideas, were affected. Mano (1994) showed that people who are experiencing negative emotional states form more polarized judgments and use simpler decision strategies. These findings are linked with ours, athletes whom we induced sadness proving

weaker cognitive capacities. Considering the practical implications of this research, a real-life application can be: “don’t play when you are sad”. At a close overview we find that repetition speed and precision were significantly improved, whatever negative emotions were induced to the athletes (fear or sadness). We can explain this fact in a certain context. We know that arousal, felt at a moderate intensity, accompanies increased performances (Tenenbaum and Eklund, 2007, p. 38). In our study, induced negative emotions (fear and sadness), using GAPED, determined an increase of arousal – this means that athletes from “negative-fear group” and athletes from “negative-sadness group” felt arousal at a relative moderate intensity (a level that facilitates performance; as Kaufman stated in 1999, too little or too much emotional arousal will decrease performance). We must say that different authors (Estupinan et al., 2014) used virtual reality (VR) to verify the effects of induced emotions (authors used, in VR, images from GAPED). They found that the use of VR (supposing a Head Mounted Display) generates an increasing of arousal and stronger emotions, compared to a regular desktop computer (how we used in our study). The high levels of arousal, especially for the negative images from GAPED, can be explained by the fact that VR is a tool that allows participants to be unaware of their surroundings. In these conditions, we are sure that, in our research (we used a regular computer screen and a projector), athletes felt arousal in a different way, compared to virtual reality (VR) or to real life situations. Thus, we expect that in a real-life situation, when athletes will experience fear or sadness, the effects on repetition speed and precision, on working memory and creativity, to be (more or less) different from those highlighted in our study. Our research findings represent a starting point in understanding the effects of different emotions on cognitive and psychomotor level, in the case of athletes. The limits of our research are represented by the gender, the cultural differences or by the individual sensitivity. The results could be different if only female athletes were investigated, if the study would have been made in another country or on athletes practicing different sports. Also, we mention, as a limit of our research, the day and the moment of the day in which the participants were tested – the athletes were studied from Monday to Friday, some of the participants were tested in the morning and some in the afternoon. Further studies are required to clarify the effects of positive and negative emotions (in real-life contexts), not only on repetition speed and precision, working memory and creativity (fluency), but also, on strength and endurance (as conditional capacities), on balance, spatial orientation, intersegmental and eye-hand coordination (as coordinative capacities) and why not, on personality (anxiety, aggressivity, autonomy, conscientiousness or self confidence).

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18.


Aspects Regarding Recovery through Regeneration Training in Competition at the Performance Level in Rugby

Adina DREVE a*, Irina BAITEL b, Gheorghe MARINESCU ab a* National University of Physical Education and Sport, Constantin Noica 140 Street, Bucharest, Romania b Theoretical College Dante Alighieri, Fuiorului Street No. 9, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The aim of this study is to demonstrate that regeneration training influences the fatigue level of the players during the preparation and competitional periods. The subjects of the research were 30 athletes, members of the U18 national rugby team. All subjects participated in training sessions in the centralized camp having at least 10 days of centralized training with a 2-2-1 structure. During the club preparation, the training volume was 8-12 hours / week. The study was conducted between January-April 2014. We conducted three testing sessions, one at the beginning of the training period, the second in March, after the training tour and the third was done after participating in the European Championship in April 2014.The subjects were divided into two groups, an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received a regenerative training after each three days of training (as planned) in the preparation period, and a regenerative training after each game in the preparation tournament and during the European Championship. The tests consisted of questionnaires, anthropometric measurements (body mass index, fat), 10 and 40 m speed tests, Sargent test adapted and Yoyo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 correlated with oxygen uptake VO2 max.

Keywords: regeneration; competition; rugby

Influencing the Specific Skills and Abilities of Junior Swimmers (16 years old), for the Middle Distance Events

Narcis Florian NEAGU Lecturer PhD Polytechnics University of Bucharest Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. The anatomic - functional sub-layer that is found in the preparation of physical qualities determines the entire planning of the development of motive gestures with determinant role in the swimming competition. The complex character of the development of physical preparation determines the combined approach manner of the qualities and capacities specific to swimmers, which represents an idea that is close to the sub-layer of the debated issue. The question is how we manage effort, that is, how much of the predominant motive quality is used, and how we combine them with the other capacities, depending on the effort involved in the relevant trial. The hypothesis upon which the study has been made: The structuring of a system of means adapted to junior swimmers in order to develop the physical training may enhance the specific training, reflecting itself over performance in middle distance events. The objective of this research consists in drafting a physical training program specific to junior swimmers for middle distance events. Keywords: Influencing; capacities; swimmers; freestyle; butterfly



Ways of Objectifying Competitive Behiavour in Latin-American Dances – Open Category

Silvia TEODORESCU a, Alexandru Adrian NICOARĂ a* a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. Through this research, we aimed to render more efficient the judging system in dancesport

competitions by developing a new evaluation system based on the existing one, but with improvements as regards point awarding in a differentiated way for each criterion and sub-criterion. This approach was required by the fact that the current judging system in competitive ballroom dancing leaves room for subjective interpretations, including some criteria that are only marked, but do not have an objective, numerical correspondent. We think that using such a judging system is extremely necessary, and given that the criteria for judging schools will be stricter, there will be possible to establish clear directions for coaches regarding the preparation methodology, and not least, the performance of judges who award points inappropriately in competitions will be more easily analysed and penalized according to the error committed.

Keywords: dancesport, judging system, criterion and sub-criterion


6th International Congress of Physical Education, Sports and Kinetotherapy Bucharest, 15-18 June, 2016

THE UTILIZATION OF CRITICAL SWIMMING SPEED IN TRAINING THE AEROBIC CAPACITY OF YOUNG SWIMMERS

ADRIAN RADULESCU1ab, GHEORGHE MARINESCU2a, LAURENTIU TICALA3a

a UNEFS, str. Constantin Noica, nr. 140, sector 6, Bucharest, Romania, b Aqua Team Swimming Club, bd. Chisinau, nr. 6-8, sector 3, Bucharest, Romania [email protected], [email protected], ,[email protected]

Abstract.

When training the aerobic capacity of young swimmers (9-11 years old), the coach plays a crucial role in helping them find the adequate speed with which they swim in order to obtain the adaptation one would expect. Training groups with large numbers of swimmers consist an even bigger challenge for coaches and simple, yet effective methods of structuring training sets are required.

Through this paper, we aimed to show the effects of using critical swimming speed in training the aerobic capacity of young swimmers (9-11 years old).

We tested the aerobic capacity of the young swimmers from both the control and the experimental group with the T-2000 test. The data was subsequently processed using statistical and mathematical methods.

Comparing the results of the T-2000 test, before and after using the critical swimming speed, we observed that the group of young swimmers who used this speed in training presented a significant improvement of the aerobic capacity than the control group.

Keywords: critical swimming speed; aerobical capacity; young swimmers


Arm Traction Strength Training in Young Swimmers

Cornelia Popovici a*, Adrian Marius Suciu b a* Medicine Faculty, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Victor Babes Street no.6, Cluj-Napoca, 400012, Romania b Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Techical University, Muncii Street no.103-105, Cluj-Napoca, 400641, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Introduction: Muscle strength has a direct impact on the speed of execution in movements and activities that require skill and strength. When assessing the impact of training on the performance of young swimmers, muscle strength is an important source of information and a key factor supporting faster speeds. Aims: Our intention is to emphasize the importance of dry-land strength and power training in achieving swimming performance in children by using the Biometer Isokinetic Trainer- swim bench. Methods: Three tests were conducted over a period of 3 years in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Twenty-four female swimmers, aged 13 to 14 years, members of the Swim to Perfection Sports Club, from Cluj-Napoca, took part in the study. The training sessions were conducted twice a week. They consisted of sets of exercises on the device for approximately 20-30 minutes (specific movements for the butterfly stroke) before entering the water, followed by a period of rest of 2 to 3 minutes. The tests were performed for 30 seconds -the time being determined according to the approximate period corresponding to the 50m butterfly at level 5 of intensity - considered the closest to the density of water. Results: Our data shows clearly that specific training, using the biometer isokinetic trainer, improves the athletic performance of young swimmers. Conclusions: Dry-land strength and power training using the swim bench may enhance the ability to produce propulsive force in water, mainly in short distance events. Keywords: Strength; effort; swim bench; swimmers.


Cognitive and Psychomotor Dimensions and the Sport Performance in the case of Junior Women Handball Players

Vasilica GRIGORE a, Alexandra PREDOIU a*, Radu PREDOIU a, Georgeta MITRACHE a

a N.U.P.E.S. Bucharest, Constantin Noica, No. 140, 060057, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The present study focuses on examing the existing correlations between the investigated cognitive and psychomotor dimensions and the sports performance of the junior women handball players. The research was conducted on 45 junior female handball players, aged between 11-12 years old, from 3 different handball teams (each team comprised 15 athletes). In order to evaluate important cognitive and psychomotor dimensions of the female athletes, we used: the CMA (Attention Concentration and Mobility) test, MT (topographical memory) test, the RCMV test which evaluates the intersegmental coordination and the TRS test, all belonging to the PSISELTEVA battery, elaborated by RQ Plus. Using the Pearson correlation there have been important relations highlighted between the attention efficiency coefficient, topographical memory coefficient, the intersegmental coordination (expressed through: perceptual-motor learning ability, operant memory and resistance to time pressure coefficient) and the sports performance, expressed through the marks given to each athlete by the coach. The results point out that the improvement of the attention concentration, topographical memory, perceptual-motor learning ability, operant memory and resistance to time pressure in the case of intersegmental coordination, may have a positive impact on the performance of the junior female handball players on the field.

Keywords: cognitive; psychomotricity; sport performance; handball;


EFFECTS OF NEUROMUSCULAR CONTROL TRAINING IN LEARNING BODY TECHNIQUES ELEMENTS IN RHYTHMIC

GYMNASTICS

Andrada BULZ a*, Emil BONDAR a, Iuliana TULVAN a, Cristina POPESCU a, Anca SABĂU b a* National Physical Education and Sport, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, 060057, Romania b Faculty of Geography, Turism and Sports, 1 Universității Street, Oradea, 410087, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. The continuing evolution of each sports, the aspirations towards new dimensions in displaying superior

competitive performance open new ways of investigation, many ways and possibilities of knowledge.

I addressed this issue because of the necessity of learning the body elements much faster at an early age under the

Regulation Code which is more evolved compared to that of the previous years.

The paper proposes a proper analysis of the issues related to motor skills, and to elaborate and experience a training

model for optimizing the training of athletes based on the effect of neuromuscular control exercises in learning technical body

elements in rhythmic gymnastics. Using specific methods leads to the improvement of the learning development process of the

gymnasts.

The results obtained encourage us to make the proposal to introduce such training in the training program in

rhythmic gymnastics, but also to study their influence on other categories of sports, the training place and the development

methodology of neuromuscular control training.

Keywords: neuromuscular control, rhythmic gymnastics, training, learning.


Hyperactivity\Impulsivity Amelioration Effects of a Fencing Training Program on Children Diagnosed with Attention Deficit

Hyperactivity Disorder

Lydia Hatuel Czuckermanna, Iacob Hantiua aBabes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Abstract

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5 (DSM-5) is characterized by a pattern of behavior, present in multiple settings (e.g., school and home), that can result in performance issues in social, educational, or work settings. During the last decades a tremendous effort was done in establishing adequate methods to delimitate the symptoms and ameliorate the performance issues. As Physical Activity (PA) was previously found to be such a method and fencing being a combat type PA, the aim of this study is to examine the influence of a fencing training program activated on ADHD diagnosed children. The present article focuses mainly on the Hyperactivity\Impulsivity aspect. Methods: The study samples part of the study population are (N=40) all children (mean age 10) diagnosed with ADHD divided into two groups; one of them (N=20, 10 boys and 10 girls) experimental fencing training group compared to a control group (N=20, 10 boys and 10 girls) about the same age and characteristics undergoing only a Physical Education (PE) training program. Results: Reliability All groups' data were processed statistically to evaluate reliability using Cronbach's Alpha and obtained values above 0.75, indicating of high reliability. Conclusions: Fencing training program was found to yield higher impact on moderating Hyperactivity\ Impulsivity symptoms over PA study population group undergoing PE training program. Keywords: ADHD, Fencing, PA, PE


Physiological patterns, neuromuscular efficiency, technical style and biomechanical adaptations of the lower limb -

transition to 110 m/400 m hurdles Onea Gheorghe Adriana*, Balint Lorandb, Pascu Mihaiab

a* Faculty of Physical Education and Mountain Sport, Transilvania University of Brasov, Phd student, Romania b Faculty of Physical Education and Mountain Sport, Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania abClubul PetroEnergia, Câmpina, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract The purpose of this review was to create a theoretical synthesis of qualitative factors that optimize the performance of the lower limb muscles for 110 m/400 m hurdles. The qualitative factors described in the research focus on intrinsic (muscles adaptation) and extrinsic (muscles memory) parameters. The generalization of these parameters can be useful for coaches who are aiming to create adaptations of the lower limb during training sessions. Understanding how the lower limb muscles work (from the start - over the hurdles - between the hurdles - finish), coaches can develop a methodical approach when it comes to design practice. This paper examines the theoretical approach of: a) Physiological characteristics of the lower limb muscles - review. b) Neuromuscular efficiency (connections between agonist, antagonist, synergistic muscles) c) Technical style of the lower limb (leading leg and trailing leg) and stride patterns from the start to the finish. d) A review of biomechanical studies for the lower limb made on hurdler runners. Overall adapting to this factors can lead to a better understanding of the lower limb (leading leg and trailing leg) efficiency and performance. Keywords: hurdles; physiological; neuromuscular; technical; biomechanical.


Analysis of performance behaviour for junior II football team C.S. Pandurii Lignitul Targu- Jiu in terms of interpersonal

relationships

Gheorghe DĂNĂȘEL

National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, 060057, Romania

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. This analysis allows knowing the relationships between players, establishing their degree of sociability, communication and solicitude within the football team CS Pandurii Lignitul Târgu Jiu, junior II, 14-16years old, by providing data designed to complete the coach’s picture about the bio-psycho-motor potential of players. The sociometric analysis has been required by the fact that many coaches make up sports teams (game formations) either based on more or less objective factors or based on the technical and tactical level of each player, without taking into account the acceptance-rejection relationships between athletes, given their age. Under these conditions, we think that the training attendance, mood and the degree of fulfilling the training tasks depend on the relationships between athletes (cohabitation, leisure, common activities, collaboration in offensive and defensive phases, leader recognition), consequently the coach should increase the team cohesion by finding a game formula able to exploit the technical and tactical potential of each player, as well as the interpersonal relationships established between them.

Keywords: sociometric analysis, interpersonal relationships, football


The Highlighting of the Laterality through the Study of the Kinematic Parameters of a Simple Technique Executed by a

Beginner Karate Practitioner. Irina BĂIȚEL a*, Luminița PĂTRU b

a* Liceul Teoretic Dante Alighieri, Bucharest, Romania b UNEFS,Bucharest, Romania * [email protected]

Abstract. Lacking the possibility to directly highlight the uneven functionality of the cerebral hemispheres, we showed it in an indirect way, through its manifestation namely the execution of the same technique, with the right and the left hand, technique in which the lower limbs are also implied. With that end n view, we made a test using the MOVEN equipment and we achived data acquisitions on a beginner karate practitioner, whose duty was to execute 10 gyaku tsuki techniques with the right and then with the left hand. For each of the executions we calculated the position of the fist in space, its velocity, the extension angle of the hitting arm’s elbow and the flexion angle of the forward leg’s knee and the variation of these values in time. We calculated the length of the stepping with the forward leg and its duration. Also, we watched the variation of the pelvis position in time, for each execution with the right and the left arm. We calculated the average values of these parameters after the synchronization at significant increase of the fist’s speed. We drew the variation curves of these time parameters and we compared them in order to show the difference between the executions with the right and the left arm.

Keywords: Laterality; cinematic parameters; technique; MOVEN


Comparative Study Regarding Anthropometric

Characteristics Specific for Each Post in Actual Rugby

Adina DREVE a*, Irina BAITEL b

a* National University of Physical Education and Sport, Constantin Noica 140 Street, Bucharest, Romania b Theoretical College Dante Alighieri, Fuiorului Street No. 9, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Without being able to categorically affirm whether rugby is a sport of contact or avoidance, certain is the fact that muscular mass is an important aspect that should be considered for every player, regardless of his post. In this study we will try, in one hand, to follow the world’s tendency reported to the ideal model presented in the relevant literature for each post: fullback, winger, halfback, center, hooker, prop and back row, and on the other hand, based on our measurements, we will try to report ourselves to those ideal models and to those already existing in the national teams. Besides the subjects analyzed in the international relevant literature, we will present information referred to the members of the U18, U20 and senior national teams of rugby. The parameters followed in this study will be the body mass, muscular mass and adipose tissue expressed in unities of mass and percentage.

Keywords: rugby, ideal model, anthropometric characteristics


Analysis of the 6m throws performed at the World’s Women

Championship 2015

Cristina VARZARU a*, Marina IGOROV b

a* UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania b UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Handball is a dynamic sports game in which the team who scores most of the goals will win. Therefore, each handball player seeks to come into an as safe as possible throwing situation or to help a teammate to come into a good throwing situation. 6m throws are a big part of the situations mentioned. A fast break, a pivot and a wing shot or a breakthrough shot are actions from the 6m line, in which the offence player is face to face with the opponent goalkeeper, into a one against one duel. The aim of this study was to analyze the use of the 6m shots during the last huge tournament for women, which was held in Denmark, at the end of 2015. The efficiency of these actions, the difference between participating teams in using the 6m shots, are also a concerning of the present study. Collecting these indicators will help us observe the trends in the elite of women’s handball. Keywords: handball; wing; fast break; breakthrough.


Heart rate monitoring of women handball players during

preparation

Cristina VARZARU a*, Virgil TUDOR b, Ana-Maria MUJEA ab a* UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania b UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The aim of this study was to analyze the heart rate of handball players from CSM Bucharest using the Polar Team System. A sensor applied on a soft strap fixed closet to the heart recorded ECG signals without a watch. All data stored in the belt were transferred to an iPad and processed with the help of Polar Team

application, during the trainings. Based on the data obtained from all the players involved in this research, the Polar Team application displayed the heart rate trace (beats/min) and estimated energy consumption (kcal) for each player, using their individual data (age, height, body mass). The heart rate values (average and maximum) and energy consumption differed from one training to another and from one player to another, in accordance with the intensity and the volume of the planned effort. Heart rate and energy consumption values showed also the accommodation of the human body to the effort’s parameters. Keywords: handball; training; heart rate.


The Use of the Mirror for Stimulating the Hand Grip

Strength through Visual Feedback

Nicolae Horațiu POP a*, Judit MARIAN b, Camelia-Manuela MÎRZA c

a* Babeș-Bolyai University, 7 Pandurilor Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania b City Hospital, 3 1. Decembrie Street, Aleșd, Romania c Iuliu-Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 4 Louis Pasteur Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Through visual control the maximum strength increases in young adults, female and male as well, well-trained and untrained. The study aimed to examine whether the use of the mirror stimulates the hand grip (HG) strength through visual feedback. A number of 125 male and 68 female subjects of medium age 20.74 and 20.22 respectively participated in our study. They were divided in 6 groups, according to the physical activity performed. Data was recorded in three different situations: without visual control (T1), with visual control (T2) and with visual control through the mirror (T3). Elements of descriptive statistics were calculated, while the data was presented as indicators of centrality, location and distribution. In the case of female subjects, as well as in the case of male subjects differences in the values recorded between the tests T1 as compared to T3 are recorded, while the data for the right hand in male subjects are statistically relevant. Also differences between the values of the left hand (LH) and the right hand (RH) are determined. The use of the mirror may positively influence the stimulation of the hand grip strength through visual feedback.

Keywords: mirror, hand grip; strength

.


The Optimization of Physical Training in Table Tennis

Beginners

Marian DRAGOMIR a*, Germina COSMA a* University of Craiova, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Introduction: The fundamental feature of the game of table tennis in terms of performance is given by the dynamism of play phases, superior physical training, speed of thought and action, precision, met in the context of a total offensive game when the speed of the ball reached unsuspected performance. Aim: The aim of the research was to prepare and validate a new program of training for juniors in order to achieve growth movement parameters of athletes. Methods: In the working program both specific and non-specific means were introduced. The athletes (n=14) were tested before and at the end (after 6 months), aiming to developed the speed, endurance, strength in the upper limbs, lower limbs and the abdomen. Results: The proposed program has proven its efficiency, the subjects achieving superior results in most tests performed during this research. Conclusions: The research outlines the importance of the reorientation of physical training methodology and content in table tennis so that it becomes the basic component in the development of technical and tactical arsenal of the game.

Keywords: table tennis, physical training, beginners.


The Impact of Acrobatic Elements on the Development of Flexibility in Volleyball Players’ Shoulder Joint

Germina COSMA a*, Ligia RUSU a, Mihnea MARIN a, Dănuţ PASCUa, Alexandru COSMAb

a* University of Craiova, Romania b National College Nicolae Titulescu, Craiova, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The shoulder joint is extremely complex and it’s challenged in the game of volleyball. Being the joint directly involved in the game of volleyball technique, especially in the phases of attack, the shoulder requires careful study, given the complexity of its movements on the three stages of elevation that may allow proper consideration of mobility at its level. Aim: The aim of the work was to identify the role of gymnastics elements in the development of the shoulder joint flexibility in volleyball players. Methods: Some working programs that included acrobatic elements (hand standing, back roll, cartwheel, etc.) have been developed and applied in the volleyball training sessions, 2 times per week for 6 months. The shoulder joint flexibility was monitored via the image acquisition Contemplas, establishing two angles in two different positions (while lifting the arm and while hitting the ball). The referencing measurements, observed through the system, were carried out on two phases, concerned angle 1- humeral epicondyle lateral, external angle scapula, scapula inferior angle of the scapula acromial process and angle 2- medial scapula, inferior angle of the scapula. The subjects (n = 12) were tested before and after implementing the working programs. Results: The results of the final tests have shown significant progress (p <0.05) of the increasing mobility of the shoulder, the implemented acrobatic exercises positively influencing the volleyball players training. Conclusions: The usage of nonspecific means in volleyball training favors the development of certain primordial qualities that are not in the specifics of the game but may condition the optimization of sports performance.

Keywords: flexibility; volleyball; gymnastics; shoulder


Study Regarding The Solicitation Level Of The Exercises Used For Landings Training In Artistic Gymnastics

Ana-Maria GAVOJDEA a*

a* N.U.P.E.S., Constantin Noica, No. 140, 060057, Bucharest, Romania

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. The preparation of the landings in the training programs are a necessity since in the current Women's Artistic Gymnastics, in addition of the increased difficulty, it emphasizes fairness and great execution. Thus, landing is one of the most important factors which determine the final rank of gymnasts at competitions. The purpose of this paper is to optimize the preparation of junior gymnasts in terms of landings, identifying the most effective exercises, reported at the effort coefficient (EC). The subjects were 21 junior gymnasts, aged 8-10 years old, legitimated at the following Bucharest`s gymnastics clubs CSS Steaua, CS Dinamo and CSS no.2. In order to achieve the purpose, we have evaluated a series of 17 training exercises used for landings preparation. We have calculated the effort coefficient of each exercise, reporting it to the heart rate that was recorded immediately after de execution and the standard heart rate (the maximum HR at each exercise has been chosen as standard). By analyzing the results, we have discovered that 3 out of 17 exercises are too little difficult (EC is less than 0.70), 8 exercises have an average level of solicitation (EC is between 0.71 and 0.80) and 6 exercises have a high level of solicitation (EC it is between 0.82 and 0.90). Thus, these exercises with a high solicitation level have to be executed daily, during training lessons. That could help at the training programs optimization, in terms of landings, and also increase the performance.

Keywords: effort coefficient; landings; Artistic Gymnastics


A Comparative Analysis of the Results Obtained by Athletes

in the Annual Physical Preparation Trials Imposed by the

Technical Committee of the Romanian Ski Biathlon

Federation

Ștefan TOADER a*, Florin PELIN a

a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the results obtained by 9 athletes, 5 boys and 4 girls, in the compulsory trials carried out in the months of October 2014 and October 2015, in Poiana Brașov. Every year, the Romanian Ski Biathlon Federation (FRSB) monitors the physical preparation of athletes through a series of trials approved by the Technical Committee of the federation. The trials are the following: 30m flat, 400m/300m endurance, standing long jump, classic vertical jump (at the wall), pull-ups on high bar, balance on a gym ball – aerobics, mobility, jumps on both feet – 30 seconds. The results achieved are converted into points. These ones must frame within the standard score scales proposed by the committee: for male seniors/ female seniors – 500 points, for juniors – the last two years – 450 points, for juniors – first year – 400 points. Analysis of the results obtained by athletes in the trials will enable us to draw conclusions about their physical preparation.

Keywords: alpine skiing; physical preparation; trials; competition.


Preliminary correlations between mental tonus, discriminatory reaction time and precisely-coordinated motor expression assessed through ultra slow motion

exercises Petre RĂDESCUa*, Silvia TEODORESCUa, Constanța URZEALĂa

Radiana MARCUb

a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, România b University “Aurel Vlaicu” Arad, 77 Revoluţiei St, Arad, România * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Introduction: In sports games literature, the mental (psychical) component has always had an important, sometimes crucial role. Slow, very slow and super slow motions are recognized to increase or maintain strength and endurance. A correlation between mental dynamics and ultra slow motion exercises (USME) has not been identified in the literature. Aim: To obtain a benchmark of how discriminatory reaction time, mental tonus, attitude towards emotion and coordination precision are correlating. Material and method: There were made a conceptual classification (ultra slow motion exercises) and a multi-factorial cross-sectional analysis (n=95) involving the application of computerized Cartesian assessment to ultra slow motions (USM). Results: All respondents (n=95)agreed to the psychological assessment (60 subjects in the control group, 35 in the study group); of them, 35 completed the questionnaire assessing the attitude towards fear, 35 performed tests for the assessment of reaction time, and 24 participated in the computerized assessment of precision in coordination. Conclusions: Specific training using smoothly-coordinated ultra slow motion exercises can be beneficial to performance in sports games, both through their psychological (temperamental) impact and by increasing efficiency in the cortical motor coordination centre. A detailed trial is required for the analysed subgroups. Keywords: mental tonus; ultra slow motion; sports performance.


Variable practice effect for acquisition and learning the ball

drive skill of soccer in young athletes

Eleni Zetou, Filippos Filippou, Nikolaos Vernadakis, Evaggelos Bebetsos School of Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace, Komotini, Greece

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. This study investigated the effect of variable practice in learning the ball drive skill in soccer. Fifty four (54) young athletes aged 10-12 (M = 12.7, SD = 0.56) with a training experience of one year were randomly divided in two groups. The first group (VPG, n=28) followed a training program by variable practice while the second group (SPG, n = 26) followed stable practice method. The duration of the intervention was eight weeks. Participants of both groups were measured before the intervention (pre-test), after eight weeks (post-test) and one week after the final test (retention test). For the ball drive skill evaluation the test of i-Soccer was used. Results showed that there was significant interaction between group and measurement (F (2.104) = 108.87, p < .01, η2 = .677), significant main effect of the measurement (F (2.104) = 74.58, p < .01, η2 = .589,) and main effect of group (F (1.52) = 30.75, p = .001, η2

= .372), which can be interpreted that the athletes of variable practice had significant differences on the three measurement of the ball drive skill. However, the athletes of variable practice group had a higher performance than the athletes of stable practice group in both acquisition and retention measurements. In conclusion, the athletes of variable group benefited from variable practice and they shaped the motor schema of ball drive skill. Therefore coaches and physical education teachers could use variable practice in the long term development of soccer’s ball drive skill.

Keywords: stable; variable practice; soccer; learning; young athletes


Technical and tactical model of the UNEFS Bucharest students,

practitioners of football game

Tudor PALADE a*, Gheorghe GRIGORE a, Sorin CIOLCĂ a

a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Starting from the premise that modern football requires the conscious and active participation of players, at both the technical and tactical levels, in order to solve successfully the situations that arise during the game, creating a technical and tactical pattern can be an important indicator in directing their preparation. The two components of the game, the technical and tactical training, need to be addressed in methodical terms for comparing them with the current development of football. We believe that by creating a technical and tactical football pattern at the university level, the teaching methodology in the context of the teaching process can be positively influenced, which also constitutes an important milestone in the process of selecting student representatives for student football team. The scientific approach investigated the technical and tactical content of football for a number of students practicing this game. To conduct the research, there were used 8 trials selected so as to meet the indices of modern game demands, characterized by optimal speed in achieving the main techniques and tactical actions. The data gathered from this research, represented by the technical and tactical indicators (parameters) of students playing high level football, will help improve the academic performance of the representative teams, so the pattern is not redundant.

Keywords: coaching, football, tactics, technique


Research with Regards on the Importance of Physical Preparation

for the Discipline

10m Air Rifle Men, at European level

Cătălin ȘERBANa*, Corina ȚIFREAb

a University of Bucharest,36-46 Blvd. M. Kogălniceanu, Bucharest, Romania b National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author:[email protected]

Abstract. Shooting is a discipline in which notable results have been achieved, both in national and international competitions, the performance being driven by a series of factors, among which, lately, the physical factor stands out. The 10 m air rifle event, 60 shots is an event in the competition calendar of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) ever since 1966 when the first World Championship Wiesbaden in Germany took place, also in the Olympic Games circuit since 1984, in Los Angeles. On top of that, this discipline is also taking place within competitions like the Word Championship, the World Championship final, continental championships and other national or international competitions. It is well known the fact that in sport shooting in general, as well as during the 10m air rifle event, the accuracy of the technical elements execution plays an essential role in obtaining exceptional results. These results depend to a large extent on the approach of the physical component in the overall preparation of the athlete. In this regard, our scientific approach aims to highlight the importance of knowledge the particularities of the physical component during the preparatory period, specific to the discipline 10m Air Rifle Men, at European level, as well as precise ways of implementing it in relation to the other component of the training. Once highlighted these aspects, the area of interest will be directed to optimizing the training strategies with direct implications on performance capacity.

Keywords: shooting sport; rifle; physical training.

Improving the Tolerance to Lactate and Its Efficiency in the End of

the Football Game

Marius STOICA a*, Cornel BLEJAN b

a* National University of Physical Education and Sport Bucharest, Romania

b National University of Physical Education and Sport Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The purpose of the paper is to adapt training content to the effects of lactic acid in the area with high concentrations of lactate 12-20 mmol. The objective is to increase the athlete's ability to tolerate the lactic acid. The research hypothesis: If we act in training to improve the tolerance to lactate, we can influence its efficiency in the endings of the games by the physical potential of the team. Participants: the components of Universitatea Craiova FC football team. The training program designed by us must comply with the speific requirements. Conclusions: The ability to eliminate the lactic acid from the bloodstream and use it as energy is an adaptive response which delays fatigue. This zone of effort should be trained independently because at the end of the game the players have to perform a great effort with fatigue.

Keywords: tolerance to lactate; performance; football


Strategies in the preparation of elite teams for the group event

in rhythmic gymnastics

Mihaela MANOS a* a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The topic of this paper is debated within a theoretical and methodical approach imposed by the requirements in the preparation of elite teams for the group event, and for this reason it proposes new dimensions in the training methodology of the women gymnasts selected and engaged in achieving valuable international sports performances. The evolution of technical and artistic requirements, and also those related to the execution of competitive routines imposed by the content of FIG Code of Points leads to approaching a strategy for the development of an instructional methodology able to ensure increased performance capacity for the elite female gymnasts in the group event. Specifically, through the content of this paper, we aim to present the optimal instructional strategies focused on the major operational goals of high performance sports activity, which have been identified, studied and assessed within a longitudinal-type experimental research carried out on the national group team.

Keywords: sports training; rhythmic gymnastics; instructional strategies.


The Characteristics Specific to the High Performance Male

Volleyball

Lica Laurentiu a, Mihailescu Liliana b a University of Pitesti, Gh, Doja, Pitesti, Romania b University of Pitesti, Gh, Doja, Pitesti, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Problem statement The large differences between the men's volleyball at World / European and national level have multiple causes. Among them, we believe that the methodological training on physical training component is crucial. The knowledge of somatic and motor characteristics of the players of the best teams participating in the 2012 Olympics, can provide concrete benchmarks in shaping the physical training of the players on the national team positions. Purpose of study We aimed to identify the somatic and the lower limbs explosive force parameters during the attack strike and blockage recorded by the best teams of the 2012 Olympic Games edition and our national team. In order to argue our research approach we determined the linear correlations between the waist and the height of jumps on the two specific skills. To verify the hypothesis we used the documentation method and math-statistical method. Findings, results and conclusions Analyzing the parameters by comparison to the top teams and those of Romania, we found that although the recorded anthropometric indexes are quite close the results of the two jumps are significantly lower in Romanian team. At the attack strikes the differences are as follow: -18 cm than Bulgaria, -16 cm than Russia, 14cm than Italy, 10cm than Brazil. At the blockage jump Romanian team has a deficit of 17cm to Bulgaria, 15cm to Russia, 9 cm to Italy and 4 cm to Brazil. This highlights a very weak level of the specific physical training concerning the expansion ability, to Romania men's volleyball team components and requires a rethinking of the specific physical training. It has been confirmed the working hypothesis and it can be establish objective benchmarks of specific physical training concerning the strength and speed of the lower limbs.

Keywords: explosive force; physical training; volleyball.


Study Concerning the Identification of the Force Level

Expression of the Lower Limbs in Tennis Players

MIHAI ILIE a*

a* University of Pitesti, Physical Education and Sport, Gh. Doja, no.41, Pitesti, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The force is one of these motor skills, whose level of expression can influence the motor behavior of the tennis player in a decisive manner and, consequently, the result obtained in competition. In this paper we aim to emphasize the force level expressed by tennis players, in case studies, in order to obtain and provide information about the way that the coaches are working for its increasing. The subjects of this research are tennis players aged between 16 and 19 years (two boys and two girls) legitimated within private sports clubs, participating in nationally, but also internationally tours. To identify the level of manifestation of lower limb strength we used Kistler Quattro Jump platform that can measure tests jumping on both feet, considered as relevant tests for the purpose of research. The types of the selected jumps were SJ, CMJ, CJb and SJs. Mechanical strength (CJB) at lower limb expressed an average value between 19.1 and 16.3 W/Kg and explosive force (SJ) presented averages falling between 14.9 and 12.5 W/Kg. The ability to use elastic energy in the concentric jump phase presented an interval ranged between 33.8% and 21.9% at CMJ tests, with an index of motor balance between the thigh and the calf muscles between 1.95 and 1.3. The results analysis achieved showed that the level of development of lower limbs force can be objectively measured and monitored using the platform Kistler Quattro Jump, the acquired data showing concrete information about the potential strength of the athletes enrolled in research.

Keywords: physical training, jumps, power, tennis.


PREPARATION IN JUDO, ENERGY AND BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Laurențiu BOCIOACĂ a* a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Judo, an Olympic combat sport, includes techniques based on maximum efficiency. The biomechanics specific to fighting actions and the characteristics of energy consumption are considered increasingly important by specialists. The purpose of this paper is to determine the aspects underpinning the classification of fighting techniques, from a biomechanical standpoint, and the energy consumption corresponding to different techniques. The research subjects are performance and top performance athletes, male and female, aged 19 to 25 years. In conducting the research, there were used general and specific training and assessment methods. For the biomechanical assessment of combat techniques, it was used the dynamic analysis and the system of leverages and couple of forces, the force distribution in relation to movement trajectory, the method of spherical and cylindrical symmetry analysis. Data regarding the biomechanical analysis have as a main landmark the actions performed in the coxofemoral joint, considered fundamental actions in judo. There are presented data on the energy consumption in judo-specific demands and the energy released in different areas of the body. To determine the energy consumption, there have been used thermodynamic methods, and the data presented relate to the calorimetric assessment through the comparative analysis of oxygen uptake with the motor activity and caloric energy released. Energy consumption is determined using the thermographic system. Conclusions prove the importance of adaptive effects occurred in the investigated athletes, regarding the role of biomechanical aspects in increasing the efficiency of technical executions and its close relationship with energy efficiency in top performance preparation.

Keywords: judo; training; biomechanical analysis; energy consumption.


Methodological Contributions Concerning the Impulse

Power Development in Terms of Mobility

Liliana Mihăilescu a, Ilie Mihai b, Gabriel Tudorache c a University of Pitesti, Romania b University of Pitesti, Romania c University of Pitesti, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Problem statement. The impulse power of the lower limbs assisted by the mobility of the ankle joint favors/limits the sportive performance in 400 m hurdles. We considered that by using the neuromuscular control method in order to improve the impulse power of the lower limbs, corroborated with the development of ankles joint mobility, by using the training technology of the conditions simulator type II, as a complementary way to the other training methods and means, we will be able to optimize its level and the performance obtained in competition. Propose of study: The aim of this research is the optimization of the training methodology regarding the development of the impulse power of the lower limbs, assisted by the mobility at the ankle join level, in 400 m seniors hurdlers, in order to improve the event performance. Findings and Results, and Conclusions A case study was carried out, two neuromuscular exercises were used with the conditions simulator: the hip lifting in horizontal plan and the plantar extension of the ankle joint, on both legs, during three months, two trainings/week. The results are emphasizing the increasing of the values specific to the muscular power during the impulse motion, on both legs, as well as the improvement of the performance in 400 m hurdles, for the subject.

Keywords: impulse power; neuromuscular control; performance.


Correlative Analysis of the Biomechanical Characteristics and Performances Achieved by Junior Gymnasts in Balance

Beam Events Vladimir POTOP a*, Victor BOLOBAN b, Vasile TRIBOI c, Alexandru GORASCENCO c a* Ecological University of Bucharest, street Vasile Milea 1G, Bucharest, Romania b National University of Physical Education and Sport from Ukraine, street Fizculturi 1, Kiev, Ukraine c State University of Physical Education and Sport of the Republic Moldova, street Andrei Doga 22, Chisinau, Moldova * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The aim of this paper is to highlight the degree of connection between the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of sports technique key elements and the performances achieved by junior gymnasts in balance beam events. This scientific approach is part of the ascertaining pedagogical experiment of the postdoctoral thesis, at the midway point, in the end of the competitive year 2013. For this purpose we used the following research methods: bibliographic study of the specialized literature, pedagogical observation, video method of biomechanical analysis, method of movement postural orientation, statistical-mathematical and graphical representation methods. In order to make this correlative analysis, following up the biomechanical analysis of the dismounts off balance beam, we selected the most effective biomechanical indicators of movement execution. The study results prove that the comparative correlative analysis of the biomechanical characteristics and the performances achieved in competition by junior gymnasts, analysis made by parametric and nonparametric statistic methods, reveal different degrees of connection of the studied indicators and their relationship in conformity with the kinematic and dynamic particularities of sports technique key elements in the dismounts off balance beam.

Keywords: balance beam; biomechanics; correlation; sports technique; performance


The Effects of High Intensity Interval Training on Aerobic Capacity in Ice Hockey Players

Robert ROCZNIOK a*, Arkadiusz STANULA a, Przemysław PIETRASZEWSKI a, Artur Gołaś a, Miłosz Czuba a, Adam Maszczyka a Department of Sports Training, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland;

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The aim of the present study was to estimate the efficiency of 8-week high intensity interval training on aerobic capacity in ice hockey players. Twenty four male competing in the top league, randomly divided into a experimental group (n=12) and a control (C) group (n=12) took part in the study. The training program applied during the study was not the same for both groups. In the experimental group for 8 weeks, all subjects performed additionally three high intensity interval training sessions per week. Each interval cycloergometer training sessions consisted of five to six 4 min bouts at 90% of VO2max. The results revealed that only in the experimental group the analysed variables changed significantly after 8 weeks preseason training sessions. The ramp test indicated significantly higher power output in its final stages as well as a significant increase in relative VO2max only in the case of the experimental group. Blood lactate concentrations were recorded at the 12th min of recovery after the ramp test. The rate of post-exercise recovery, ΔLA, recorded after the ramp test turned out to be significantly higher. This data suggest that additionally training protocol with high intensity intervals (5 to 6 x 4 min bouts at 90% of vVO2max) is an effective training means for increasing aerobic capacity in hockey players.

Keywords: team games, recovery, aerobic capacity, test ramp, VO2max

THE IMPORTANCE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN TENNIS PERFORMANCE

Stanescu Rares National University of Physical Education and Sport, Bucharest

[email protected] Abstract Tennis has become a very complex sport and also an interesting sport for electronic devices developers because are a lot of money involved in this field. Specialists analyze every aspect of the game for improving all factors that can help the player to win. Physical preparation, mental coaching and biomechanical analyze are based on electronic devices or software. Now, sport industry has discovered also very many electronic devices to analyze technical performance. In tennis we can use devices for tennis racquets, for arm and forearm movements and software that can underline the tennis players problems through video analyze. It is very important that these devices can give us information in real time so we can manage to improve the game to an upper level. The information is significant for coaches and they can build as fast as they can a tennis program that can help the tennis players to eliminate their technical faults. These devices incorporate giroscopes, accelerometers, radars, sensors and very many electronic items. The software can be installed on mobile phones, Ipad, laptops or PC.

Key words: electronic devices, tennis, software, sensors, tennis performance.


STUDY ABOUT THE ROLE OF SPECIFIC PHYSICAL TRAINING IN OPERATIONAL CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT OF U18

BASKETBALL PLAYERS

Savu Cristian Floriana, Păun Adiohos Andrab, Marinescu Oana Suzanac, Marinescu Susanad

a University ,,Valahia” of Târgovişte, România, b School Sports Club, Târgovişte, România, c Theoretical High School „Grigore Moisil”,Timişoara, România d School "Coresi" - European School, Târgovişte, România.

Abstract: The modern game of basketball requires organizational solutions and new

training methodologies, based on a thorough special physical preparation that will improve

motor, physical, functional and technical parameters of junior basketball players.

The approach of modern training methods in the preparation of juniors requires a

highly dynamic model of training and game, which are adapted to the current competition

system and are based on a general orientation of preparation, but with some specific

particularities of the position held in team.

Promoting differentiated instruction method of general and specific physical

preparation of the players, the operationalization of sports training content, the assessment of

the dynamic of the effort in training, based on the model of training and game, will ensure a

proper development of the functional capacity of the body, will provide its specific adaptation

to the great efforts required by the game, and a high level of development of basic and

specific motor skills.

In this study, using some laboratory tests, we aimed to collect data about the

optimization of morphological and functional capacity of juniors U18, as effect of general and

special physical training (vital capacity, Lorentz index for respiratory system, Ruffier test and

Sargent test for the cardiovascular system).

The results obtained within the two tests applied on investigated groups, which were

processed and analyzed by statistical and mathematical methods, show us a significant

improvement in functional capacity, which highlights the efficiency of content of an applied

model of preparation and game.

Keywords: junior, functional capacity, sports training

1

PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT FOR YOUNG JUDOKAS Serhii Kuryliuk Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University 57, Shevchenka Str., Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, 76018 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Objectives The paper deals with the substantial part of the organization and carrying out of the psychological training

in the annual cycle of training sessions of judokas at the initial stage of training. Methods The psychodiagnosis has been conducted in the sport institutions of the city of Ivano-Frankivsk (Ivano-

Frankivsk oblast, Ukraine) among 270 male judokas, aged 10-12. The following methods have been used: theoretical – the scientific and methodological sources analysis, synthesis, comparison and generalization of the obtained data; the practical ones – observation, discussion, the “ascertaining” and “forming” experiments, questionnaire poll, testing (Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Questionnaire, Motivation Questionnaire, J. Rotter’s methods of measuring the subjective control level, Subjective Self-Rating Questionnaire, V. Morosanova and E. Konoz’s method of diagnosing the self-regulation indices, the FPI Test), mathematical statistics methods, the author’s psychological training program aiming at facilitating the judokas’ self-regulation at the initial stage of their training.

Results The conducted psychological training with the psychological correction elements aiming at the

development of the psychomotor and personal qualities enabled the improvement of using various fight techniques and tactical means by the sportsmen of the experimental group. The young judokas improved their understanding of the fight strategy while training and contesting. The positive results of the training influence reflected on the constructive system of establishing relationships with the friends, rivals, and relatives.

The use of the psycho-correctional program enabled the significant rise of the judokas’ self-regulation level in training and contesting. The experimental group members acquired the ability to realize and functionally combine the effective regulatory parts.

Conclusions The research results proved experimentally that the important criterion of optimizing the psychological,

technical, tactical and physical training of judokas is the formation of their psychomotor processes, namely the functional motility, nervous system forces, the latent period of the simple and complex visual-motor reactions.

Key words: psychological support, psychological training, judo, psychomotor system, self-regulation.


PATTERNS COMPARISON BETWEEN MALES AND FEMALES OF MUSCULAR ACTIVITY IN THE FLAT BENCH PRESS

Artur Golas [email protected]

Adam Maszczyk [email protected] Przemyslaw Pietraszewski [email protected] Robert Roczniok [email protected] Adam Zajac [email protected] Piotr Rodak [email protected]

INTRODACTION The bench press is one of the most popular exercises used in strength training for the upper body. Athletes undergo special training, which can change the ratios between the strength of different groups of muscles. Interesting information on this subject can be derived from topography of muscle strength that describes how particular groups of muscles contribute to total strength. METHODS Five males and five females participants with at least one year of bench press training experience participated in this study. The main session included four sets of one repetition of the flat bench press with 40, 60, 80 and 100 % 1RM. In the research there was activity of four muscles taken under consideration: Pectoralis Major (PM), Anterior Deltoid (AD), Long head of Triceps Brachii (LTB) and Lateral head of Triceps Brachii (TBL). RESULTS The increase in the external load from 40% 1-RM to 100% 1-RM during the flat bench press at males caused significant increase in activity of TBL, LTB and AD while in females caused significant increase in activity of AD and PM. DISCUSSION Changing patterns of muscle activity between males and females is mainly due to a lower strength of upper limbs in females resulting in low activity of triceps brachii compared to males.

Key words: emg, strength training,


Anthropometric differences between women handball

players from different continents

Viorel COJOCARU a*, Cristina VARZARU b

a* UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania b UNEFS Bucharest, Str. Constantin Noica, No.140, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The aim of this study was to identify possible differences in the anthropometric characteristics in terms of height and weight between senior women handball players from distinct continents. Differences of age are also a purpose of the present study. In order to highlight the possible somatic and age differences between players from Europe and outside Europe, data collected from the statistics of European Championships, World Championships and Olympic games tournaments of the last decade were observed and compared. The basic working method is a retrospective descriptive analysis of the mentioned characteristics in the top three events. According to the results of our research, European handball players are taller and weigh more than players outside Europe. The body mass index indicates a better value for European players, meaning more athletic types for these players. In terms of age, no significant differences could be found between the two categories of players. Keywords: handball; women; height; weight; age.

The effect of a ketogenic diet on body composition in basketball players.

Michalczyk1 M. Zydek G1, Langfort1 J, A. Zając2.

1 Department of Nutrition and Supplements in Sport, 2 Department of Sport Training, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in

Katowice, Poland

Data accumulated in the last years indicate that a ketogenic diet has been widely used in male

weight, glycaemic and lipid profile control but its role has been poorly investigated in

athletes. Thus, we determined whether a 4-week ketogenic diet (KD) intervention, rich in

polyunsaturated fatty acids altered body composition: skeletal muscle mass (SMM;kg) and fat

mass (FM;kg, %), as well as blood lipoprotein profiles: triglycerides (TG;mg/dL), HDL

(HDL;mg/dl), LDL (LDL;mg/dl), total cholesterol (tCh; mg/dl) and β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-

HBA;mmoL/L – an indicator of diet effectiveness) in 14 male basketball players (25.3 ± 3.8

yrs., with at least six yrs., of training experience). Before the experiment began all participants

were kept on an energy balanced mix diet for one week. The ketogenic diet was composed of

65% fats, 25% protein and 10% carbohydrates. β-HBA and HDL significantly increased

(p<0.05) after administration of the ketogenic diet. The KET diet significantly decreased FM

(p<0.05) and TG (p<0.05) levels. There were no significant changes in remaining variables. It

was concluded that a KET diet can modify lipid metabolism in well trained athletes.

Key words: diet intervention, athletes, lipid metabolism


NEUROFEEDBACK FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF

DYNAMIC BALANCE OF JUDOKAS

MASZCZYK ADAM*, RODAK PIOTR a*, GOŁAŚ ARTUR*, PRZEMYSŁAW

PIETRASZEWSKI*, CHYCKI JAKUB*, ROCZNIOK ROBERT*,

KOSTRZEWA MACIEJ*

a* The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Mikołowska 72a, Katowice,

Poland

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Neurofeedback (EEG biofeedback) holds potential for retraining brainwave activity to enhance optimal performance in athletes in various sports. It can also be used to improve concentration and focus, to improve cognitive function and emotional control following concussions and mild head injuries, and it has untapped potential to increase physical balance in gymnastics, ice skating, skiing, and other areas of performance. The physical balance is one of the important factors in sport. The present study investigated and determine the impact of neurofeedback training on dynamic balance in Judo. 18 Judokas voluntarily participated in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: experimental (EG) and control (CG). In the experimental group were trained to inhibit 3-8 Hz while they were also trained to reinforce 14-19 Hz brainwave activities at O1, O2 pointes for ten sessions and 25 minutes per session. The participants in the control group were exposed to the same condition but instead were provided with sham feedback. EEG and dynamic balance tests were executed before and at the end of fifteenth sessions of training. The One-way ANOVA with repeated measures revealed that dynamic balance scores significantly improved at the post-test (F=12.4, p=0.001) in the EG group. The findings demonstrate that neurofeedback training can enhance dynamic balance of Judokas. Keywords: EEG; biofeedback; judo; neurofeedback; dynamic balance

COMPARISON OF MEAN AND PEAK VALUE OF MUSCLE ACTIVITY IN FLAT BENCH PRESS

Artur Golas [email protected]

Przemyslaw Pietraszewski [email protected] Adam Maszczyk [email protected] Robert Roczniok [email protected] Magorzata Michalczyk [email protected] Jakub Chycki [email protected]

INTRODACTION The bench press is a popular exercise that is performed with the purpose of increasing strength and hypertrophy of upper extremity musculature. Though the bench press serves as an exercise to primarily target the pectoralis major (PM); it also activates the anterior deltoid (AD) and triceps brachii (TB). In scientific research often mean and peak value of the muscle activity are interchangeably used however without a precise request of the differences between them.

METHODS Five males (age: 21 yrs; height: 179 ?? 11 cm, body mass: 88 kg, 1RM in bench press: 130 ??? 15 kg) participants with at least three years of bench press training experience participated in this study. The main session included four sets of one repetition of the flat bench press with 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% 1RM. In the research there was activity of four muscles taken under consideration: Pectoralis Major (PM), Anterior Deltoid (AD), Long head of Triceps Brachii (LTB) and Lateral head of Triceps Brachii (TBL).

RESULTS The increase in the external load from 50% 1-RM to 100% 1-RM during the concentric flat bench press causes increased mean value of muscle activity. Peak muscles activity increased value only to 80% 1-RM.

DISCUSSION The loads above 80% 1-RM in flat bench press should not be used in power training because of the smaller peaks amplitude generated by muscle.

power training,strength training,



Lipolytic hormones changes following resistance training under 1

normobaric hypoxia 2

3 Jakub Chycki1, Miłosz Czuba1, Artur Gołaś1 Piotr Rodak1, Olga Fidos-Czuba1 4

5 6 7

1 The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Department of Sports Training 8 Mikołowska 72A, 40-065 Katowice, 9

Poland 10

Abstract 11

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of 6 week resistance training under 12 hypoxic conditions (FiO2=12.9%, 4000 m) on insulin and lipolytic hormone profile. The 13 project included 12 resistance trained male subjects, randomly divided into two experimental 14 groups, group 1 (n=6; age 21±2.4 years; body height [BH] 178.8±7.3 cm; body mass [BM] 15 80.6±12.3 kg) and group 2 (n=6; age 22±1.5 years; BH 177.8±3.7cm; BM 81.1±7.5 kg). Each 16 group trained alternately under normoxic and hypoxic conditions (4000m) for 6 weeks. All 17 subjects preformed two training sessions per week. Each training session proceeded at an 18 exercise intensity of 70% of 1RM, and consisted of eight sets of 10 repetitions of the bench 19 press and barbell squat, with 3 min rest periods. The results indicate that strength training in 20 normobaric hypoxia cause a significant (p<0.01) changes in hormone induce lipolysis. 21 Increase (p<0.05) IGF-1, GH and norephinephrine in experimental group. Additionally, a 22 significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in insulin concentration at rest after 6 weeks of 23 hypoxic resistance training in both groups. The results of this study allow to conclude that 24 resistance training (6 weeks) under normobaric hypoxic conditions induces greater 25 neuroendocrine response hormones induce lipolysis compared to training in normoxic 26 conditions. Activation of endogenous lipolysis hormone production has great potential to 27 influence the onset and metabolic consequences of obesity. 28

29 30 Keywords: hypoxia, lipolytic hormone, resistance training, endocrine response 31


The basic principles of judokas precompetitive training problems

Veaceslav MANOLACHI*

a* State University of Physical Education and Sport, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The performance judokas precompetitive training curriculum proposed, facilitates the optimization of this process, increase the efficiency of the control and its conduct and the obtaining of a higher special physical training level, the mastery of technical and tactical development and sports results in the shortest time and with the smallest physical effort of the athletes and coaches.

Keywords precompetitive period; planning; training efforts; training schedules; micro-cycle; macro-cycles.

Study on the execution times of women weightlifting athletes

for the two-hand clean and jerk technique

Daniel Constantin MURĂREȚU a*, Răzvan-Liviu PETRE a, Marian Daniel TEODORU a a National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica Street, Bucharest, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. The high level of performances achieved by women weightlifters leads specialists in the field to new reflections. Thus, one of the most important factors that contribute to obtaining valuable performances is the execution time. This research is part of a broader study aimed to investigate weightlifters (of both genders and different classes) regarding certain moments related to the execution times which characterize the weight lifting techniques. In order to achieve the intended purposes, there were selected seven women weightlifters of international value, on the occasion of the European Weightlifting Championships that took place in Bucharest, between 6 and 12 April 2009, at the “Ioan Kunst Ghermănescu” Polyvalent Hall. The selected female athletes were from various countries, namely Poland, Turkey, Bulgaria, Moldova, Italy, France and Romania, and were aged 15 to 27 years. We mention that this study is a continuation of a research on the execution times for the two-hand technique, which has the final goal to achieve a comparison between the Romanian athletes and those from other countries.

Keywords: investigation; execution time; women weightlifting athletes.



THE IMPLEMENTATION RESULTS OF THE

LICENSING SYSTEM, FOR COACHES TRAINING

PLAYERS UNDER 13

Alina Daniela Moanțăa*, Iulian Gabriel Ghițescub, Mihăiță Alin Săftelc

a,b,c National University of Physical Education and Sports, 140 Constantin Noica St., 060057, Bucharest, Romania

* Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Basketball coaches training features in Romania, through various aspects of interest, represent a particularly vast research and reflection domain. The Romanian Basketball Federation implements since 2014, a licensing program for coaches on various levels of training, which aims a unitary preparation for them in order to implement the training strategy of the national teams. The licensing program applied by the Romanian Basketball Federation, for the 4 levels of training (License “C”: for mini basket, U13, License “B”: for U14, U16 championships, License “A”: for U18, U20, 1st League championships, License “AA”: for National League), began in 2014 and was held in several forms; regional training sessions held by the FR Basketball, annual internships organized by the FR Basketball FIBA international internships. During 2014 – 2017, coaches framing is covered by the interest of a particular category of instruction, the value of coaches, their design activity. The present study offers an analysis of the results obtained during the theoretical testing of the coaches, who took these tastings during 2014 – 2015, according to thunder 13 training category. The study results offer information regarding the knowledge level based on 8 training features: the ball technique, technique without the ball, training planning, physical training, regulation, methodical - tactical individual, psychological training.

Keywords: (coach; progress; licensing; training)


Study on Ascertaining

the Report of Emotionality versus Rationality in the

Handball Game

Dragoş Ioan TOHĂNEAN a*, Ioan TURCU b

a* Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Mountain, University street, No.1, Brasov, Romania b Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Mountain, University street, No.1, Brasov, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract

This paper is a study aimed at identifying ascertaining emotionality and rationality report for the handball players. The research subjects were 75 handball players, male, components of the first 2 teams from national leagues. Athletes were chosen in equal numbers for each post game.

It was applied a battery of specific psychological tests which as led to obtaining different results between categories of athletes investigated. It was revealed that two categories of subjects had a predisposition to act in a manner (generally) rational and more emotional the other categories.

The overall conclusion of this study is that rationality-emotionality report of the handball players investigated it is conditioned by the specific characteristics and different tasks of the game for each group of players.

Keywords: emotionality; rationality; handball players;


Choice of optimal solution on improving performance under

conditions of uncertainty

Vlad OLESCU a*, Viorel COJOCARU b, Isabella SIMA c a* The National University of physical Education and Sports, Constantin Noica Str., No. 140, Bucharest, Romania

b The National University of physical Education and Sports, Constantin Noica Str., No. 140, Bucharest, Romania c ”Constantin Brâncoveanu” University, Nicolae Bălcescu Bvd., No. 39, Rm Vâlcea, Romania * Corresponding author: [email protected] Abstract. Optimizing decisions involves, generally, the choice of the most appropriate way to act from a multitude of possible variants. The hard part of this process, according to the data, is due to the lack of certainty over the conditions the effectiveness of the test. With the help of mathematical methods, on the basis of existing information, but transposed in an appropriate form, you can define the types of behavior so that you select the most viable strategy. Keywords: optimal solution, performance, tests, mathematical method, uncertainty

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