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The aim of this study was to determine the physical and physiological demands of intercounty camogie match-play between positions and halves of play. Data were collected from 28 players during 18 competitive games using global positioning systems (10-Hz) and heart rate monitors (2.4-GHz). The study demonstrated that intercounty camogie players covered a total distance (TD) (m ± SD) of 6,040 ± 628 m, relative distance (RD) of 83 ± 13 m⋅min-1, and maximum speed of 25 ± 1 km⋅h-1. Furthermore, the players covered a mean sprint distance of 214 ± 112 m and 14 ± 6 sprints. Players' mean heart rate (HRmean) and HRmaxwas 138 ± 23 b⋅min-1 and 164 ± 20 b⋅min-1, respectively. There were decrements between halves in TD (p < 0.01, ES = -0.45), RD (p < 0.01, ES = -0.45), maximum speed (p < 0.05, ES 5 -0.18), HRmax(p < 0.05, ES = -0.23), running (p < 0.01, ES = -0.34), high-speed running (p < 0.01, ES = 0.34), sprinting (p < 0.01, ES 5 -0.10), HRmax(p < 0.05, ES = -0.23), and HRmax % (p < 0.05, ES = -0.24). Midfielders covered a greater TD compared with full-forwards (p < 0.05, ES 5 -0.38) and half-forwards (p < 0.05, ES 5 -0.38). Full-backs covered a significantly lower RD than midfielders (p < 0.05, ES 5 -1.2), half-backs compared with full-forwards (p < 0.05, ES 5 1.14), and half-forwards compared with full-forwards (p < 0.05, ES 5 1.15). Full-forwards covered significantly less RD when compared with half-backs (p < 0.05, ES 5 -1.14), midfielders (p < 0.05, ES 5 -1.47), and half-forwards (p < 0.05, ES 5 -1.15). The findings provide physical and physiological values on the match demands of intercounty camogie match-play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relationships between force-generating capabilities and weightlifting performance (e.g., snatch, clean and jerk [C&J], and combined total) have previously been explored in adult weightlifters; however, associations in young athletes are unknown. The purpose of this study was twofold: (a) to examine the relationships between countermovement jump (CMJ) and isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) kinetics and weightlifting performance in young weightlifters and (b) to determine the proportion of weightlifting performance that could be accounted for by CMJ and IMTP kinetics using principal component analysis (PCA). Thirty-seven young weightlifters (12-18 years of age) completed 3 trials of CMJ and 2 trials of the IMTP assessments on dual force plates. Recent competition maximum loads, obtained within 2 weeks of the data collection, for the C&J and snatch were also recorded. Pearson's zero-order correlation coefficients demonstrated moderate to very high correlations (r = 0.359-0.801; all p ≤ Benjamini-Hochberg critical values [B-Hα]) between CMJ kinetic variables, including jump height, average braking force, average braking velocity, absolute and relative braking net impulse, absolute and relative force at minimum displacement, absolute and relative propulsive force, absolute and relative propulsive net impulse and average propulsive velocity, and weightlifting performance. High to very high correlations were evident between IMTP peak force and relative peak force and all weightlifting performance metrics (snatch, C&J, combined total, combined total [kg]/body mass [kg-0.67], and Sinclair's total; r = 0.538-0.796; p ≤ B-Hα). Components from the PCA were used to conduct stepwise, multiple, linear regression analyses. Moderate (45.8-52.9%) and large percentages (79.1-81.3%) of variance in absolute measures of weightlifting performance were explained by IMTP peak force variables and CMJ propulsive variables, respectively. These novel findings indicate that IMTP peak force variables and CMJ propulsive variables could provide valuable insight for talent identification and long-term athletic development in junior weightlifting pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ntroduction: Despite increases in research and implementation, physical literacy continues to be largely misinterpreted by practitioners. The purpose of this study was to devise, implement, and evaluate a professional development program that works in a primary school environment to enhance their knowledge and operationalization of physical literacy. Methods: Following a 3-month needs assessment phase, data were collected from structured observations, reflections, and semistructured interviews with the teachers, before, during, and after an introductory workshop and 6-month physical literacy intervention. Thematic analysis was used to evaluate perceptions of program effectiveness. Results: The needs assessment phase identified notable differences between teachers' classroom and physical education practice. Results of the physical literacy workshop and intervention detailed an increase in teachers' knowledge of, and operationalization of, physical literacy. Discussion/Conclusions: Applying established principles of effective professional development in a contextually sensitive manner was viewed as effective in enhancing primary school teachers' knowledge and practice regarding physical literacy.

Questions continue to be raised about the validity that is in existence to estimate Db, in professional male footballer players. Phase 1: n = 28 anthropometric variables were used on n = 206 footballers, using regression analyses to determine standard error of estimate and R2. A cut-off correlation coefficient set at r = 0.950 and 90% R2. Phase 2: all variables (z-scores, $$\bar x$$ x ˉ = 0.0, SD = ±1.0) to help reduce heteroscedasticity, β, r, t, significance of t and P-values were calculated. Phase 3: a forced stepwise–backwards regression analysis approach with nine predictors which met the acceptance criteria (r = 0.950, R2 = 90% and β weights) was used to develop a 'best fit' and a 'practical' calibration model. Phase 4: cross-validation of the two newly developed calibration method using LoA. The 'best fit' model SEM (0.115 g ml−1), the highest R2 (6.6%) (P ≤ 0.005), whereas the 'practical' calibration model SEM (0.115 g ml−1), R2 (4.7%) (P ≤ 0.005) with r values = 0.271 and 0.596 and R2 (%) coefficients = 0.3526 for the 'best fit' and 'practical' calibration models, respectively (P = 0.01). The two calibration models supported an ecologically and statistically valid contribution and can provide sound judgements about professional footballers' body composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the dietary habits of Welsh 12-13 year olds. A cohort of 84 boys and 81 girls, age 12.9 SD 0.3 years; body mass 51.3 SD 12.6kg; and stature 1.54 SD 0.08m, completed a food frequency questionnaire and seven-day food diary. Mean daily kilocalories (kcal/d), and percentages of total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, and protein, as well as fibre intake were calculated. The mean daily intake of total fat for this cohort was 34.7 percent, for saturated fat the value was 13.8 percent. The mean daily intake of carbohydrate and protein were 50.5 and 14.9 percent, respectively. The schoolchildren in this study reported a mean daily fibre intake of 12.3g. The absolute intake of kilocalories was significantly greater (p [less than or equal to] 0.05) among boys than girls, but no other significant differences were reported. This study revealed that the diets of Welsh 12-13 year olds exceeded recommendations for fat, while at the same time did not meet the recommendations for fibre, and particularly fruit and vegetable intake. Our data indicated that, despite schools offering a range of healthy lunchtime foods, young people continue to consume an energy-dense and nutrient-poor diet, both at school and at home. (Contains 3 tables.)

Objective: This study considers the physical activity (PA) and dietary habits of British young people according to socio-economic status (SES). Methods: The PA and dietary habits of 98 boys and 101 girls (12.9 0.3 years) from two Welsh secondary schools (school 1 and school 2) were examined. Free school meal eligibility and Census 2001 data were used as indicators of SES. School 1 was designated high SES, while school 2 represented low SES. Participants were classified according to SES. Physical activity was estimated by seven-day recall and questionnaire; dietary patterns were assessed using a seven-day food diary and questionnaire. Results: Two-thirds of all participants had not taken part in vigorous activity over the last week. Furthermore, 83.8 per cent of participants did not meet the Health Education Authority's recommendation of one hour per day moderate activity. Boys were more active than girls, (P less than or equal 0.05), but SES did not influence time spent in activity. Ninety-four percent of participants were taken to school via motorized transport. There were no significant differences in fat intake between the sexes or across SES. In addition, 93 per cent of the participants, irrespective of SES, exceeded the 10 per cent saturated fat cut off point recommended by the World Health Organization. Conclusion: Physical activity and dietary patterns are modifiable through suitable lifestyle changes. The present data support the notion that preventative strategies for combating chronic diseases should begin early in life and across socio-economic statuses. (Contains 4 tables.)

This study determined the prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors in young people of differing socio-economic status (SES). A cohort of 100 boys and 108 girls, aged 12.9, SD 0.3 years drawn of differing SES were assessed for CHD risk factors. Measurements included indices of obesity, blood pressure, aerobic fitness, diet, blood lipids and lipoproteins. Significant differences (P [less than or equal to] 0.05) were detected with respect to SES, for systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, but in boys only. Significant sex differences (P [less than or equal to] 0.05) were identified for systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, aerobic fitness, waist to hip ratio, summation of four skinfold thicknesses, average daily kilocalorie intake, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, increased body fatness, low aerobic fitness, a high fat diet and elevated lipoprotein (a), were the most frequently identified CHD risk factors in this cohort. This study reveals a high incidence of CHD risk factors in young people irrespective of SES and sex, and highlights the need for vigilance in identifying such risk factors from a young age. (Contains 4 tables and 1 note.)

Introduction: Despite increases in research and implementation, physical literacy continues to be largely misinterpreted by practitioners. The purpose of this study was to devise, implement, and evaluate a professional development program that works in a primary school environment to enhance their knowledge and operationalization of physical literacy. Methods: Following a 3-month needs assessment phase, data were collected from structured observations, reflections, and semistructured interviews with the teachers, before, during, and after an introductory workshop and 6-month physical literacy intervention. Thematic analysis was used to evaluate perceptions of program effectiveness. Results: The needs assessment phase identified notable differences between teachers' classroom and physical education practice. Results of the physical literacy workshop and intervention detailed an increase in teachers' knowledge of, and operationalization of, physical literacy. Discussion/Conclusions: Applying established principles of effective professional development in a contextually sensitive manner was viewed as effective in enhancing primary school teachers' knowledge and practice regarding physical literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To understand how training periodization influences sprint performance and key step characteristics over an extended training period in an elite sprint training group. Methods: Four sprinters were studied during 5 mo of training. Step velocities, step lengths, and step frequencies were measured from video of the maximum velocity phase of training sprints. Bootstrapped mean values were calculated for each athlete for each session, and 139 within-athlete, between-sessions comparisons were made with a repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: As training progressed, a link in the changes in velocity and step frequency was maintained. There were 71 between-sessions comparisons with a change in step velocity yielding at least a large effect size (>1.2), of which 73% had a correspondingly large change in step frequency in the same direction. Within-athlete mean session step length remained relatively constant throughout. Reductions in step velocity and frequency occurred during training phases of high-volume lifting and running, with subsequent increases in step velocity and frequency happening during phases of low-volume lifting and high-intensity sprint work. Conclusions: The importance of step frequency over step length to the changes in performance within a training year was clearly evident for the sprinters studied. Understanding the magnitudes and timings of these changes in relation to the training program is important for coaches and athletes. The underpinning neuromuscular mechanisms require further investigation but are likely explained by an increase in force-producing capability followed by an increase in the ability to produce that force rapidly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Byrne, PJ, Moody, JA, Cooper, S-M, Farrell, E, and Kinsella, S. Short-term effects of "composite training" on strength, jump, and sprint performance in hurling players. J Strength Cond Res 36(8): 2253–2261, 2022—The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term effects of "composite" training to sprint training on strength, jump, and sprint acceleration performance in hurling players. A randomized counterbalanced group design with baseline test, pretest and post-test measures was used. Twenty-five hurling players volunteered to participate and 21 completed the study. Subjects were divided into a "composite" (COMP group, n = 10) or a sprint training (SPRINT group, n = 11) group. Both groups trained twice per week for 7 weeks with the SPRINT group performing 6 repetitions of 20 m sprints and the COMP group completing 6 repetitions (1 repetition = 3 bounce drop jumps [BDJs] with a 20 m sprint after 15 seconds recovery). Significant differences existed pretraining to post-training for the COMP group for BDJ contact time (−7.25%; p = 0.05) and countermovement jump (CMJ) variables (height: 7.43%, p = 0.006; force: 5.24%, p = 0.05; power: 15.11%, p = 0.001). No significant differences were found between groups at baseline and for group by time interactions. Significant improvements were observed pretraining to post-training in both groups for the following: absolute 3 repetition maximum (3RM) back squat strength (12.73–17.62%, p = 0.01), 5 m (5.74–9.49%, p = 0.006–0.04), 10 m (4.27–5.59%, p = 0.007–0.02), and 20 m (3.35–3.98%, p = 0.003–0.01). In conclusion, "composite" training is effective in enhancing fast stretch-shortening cycle efficiency inducing CMJ force and power augmentation. However, "composite" and sprint training are effective training approaches for enhancing maximal strength and sprint performance in a time efficient manner in hurling players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether wearing lower-body compression garments attenuate indices of muscle damage and decrements in performance following drop-jump training. Seven trained female and four trained male subjects undertook blood collection for creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), a mid-thigh girth measurement, and reported their perceived muscle soreness (PMS). A series of performance tests were then completed including sprints (5 m, 10 m, and 20 m), a 5-0-5 agility test, and a countermovement jump test. In a randomized crossover experimental design, separated by 1 week, subjects completed 5 x 20 maximal drop-jumps, followed immediately after exercise by either wearing graduated compression tights (CG) or undertook passive recovery as a control (CON) for 48 hours. CK, LDH, mid-thigh girth, and PMS were retested after 24 hours and 48 hours of recovery. The performance tests were repeated after 48 hours of recovery. Analysis of variance for repeated measures indicated that for female subjects, OK values were elevated after 24-hour recovery (p = 0.020) and a greater PMS was observed after 48-hour recovery in the CON condition (p = 0.002) but not for the CG condition. For all the subjects (n = 11), a greater PMS was observed after 48-hour recovery in the CON condition (p = 0.001) but not the CG condition. Significant increases in time were reported for 10-m (p = 0.016, 0.004) and 20-m sprints (p = 0.004, 0.001 ) in both the CON and CG conditions and for the 5m sprint (p = 0.014) in the CG condition. All other parameters were unchanged in either condition. Data indicates that CK responses and PMS might be attenuated by wearing compression tights in some participants after drop-jump training; however, no benefit in performance was observed. KEY WORDS muscle damage, creatine kinase, lactate de hydrogenase, performance

A study assessing the prevalence of the identified coronary heart disease risk factors in children and adolescents of differing socioeconomic status is carried out. Results conclude that elevated fibrogen, homocyst(e)ine, and C-reactive protein are present in this cohort of British children and although some social variation in the identified CHD risk factors in young people exists, the evidence is weak but differences might become more apparent in later life as environmental factors become more influential.

Cardiovascular and haematological adaptations to endurance training facilitate greater maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$), and such adaptations may be augmented following puberty. Therefore, we compared left ventricular (LV) morphology (echocardiography), blood volume, haemoglobin (Hb) mass (CO rebreathing) and V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ in endurance‐trained and untrained boys (n = 42, age = 9.0–17.1 years, V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ = 61.6 ± 7.2 ml/kg/min, and n = 31, age = 8.0–17.7 years, V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ = 46.5 ± 6.1 ml/kg/min, respectively) and girls (n = 45, age = 8.2–17.0 years, V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ = 51.4 ± 5.7 ml/kg/min, and n = 36, age = 8.0–17.6 years, V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ = 39.8 ± 5.7 ml/kg/min, respectively). Pubertal stage was estimated via maturity offset, with participants classified as pre‐ or post‐peak height velocity (PHV). Pre‐PHV, only a larger LV end‐diastolic volume/lean body mass (EDV/LBM) for trained boys (+0.28 ml/kg LBM, P = 0.007) and a higher Hb mass/LBM for trained girls (+1.65 g/kg LBM, P = 0.007) were evident compared to untrained controls. Post‐PHV, LV mass/LBM (boys: +0.50 g/kg LBM, P = 0.0003; girls: +0.35 g/kg LBM, P = 0.003), EDV/LBM (boys: +0.35 ml/kg LBM, P < 0.0001; girls: +0.31 ml/kg LBM, P = 0.0004), blood volume/LBM (boys: +12.47 ml/kg LBM, P = 0.004; girls: +13.48 ml/kg LBM, P = 0.0002.) and Hb mass/LBM (boys: +1.29 g/kg LBM, P = 0.015; girls: +1.47 g/kg LBM, P = 0.002) were all greater in trained versus untrained groups. Pre‐PHV, EDV (R2adj = 0.224, P = 0.001) in boys, and Hb mass and interventricular septal thickness (R2adj = 0.317, P = 0.002) in girls partially accounted for the variance in V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$. Post‐PHV, stronger predictive models were evident via the inclusion of LV wall thickness and EDV in boys (R2adj = 0.608, P < 0.0001), and posterior wall thickness and Hb mass in girls (R2adj = 0.490, P < 0.0001). In conclusion, cardiovascular adaptation to exercise training is more pronounced post‐PHV, with evidence for a greater role of central components for oxygen delivery. Key points: It has long been hypothesised that cardiovascular adaptation to endurance training is augmented following puberty.We investigated whether differences in cardiac and haematological variables exist, and to what extent, between endurance‐trained versus untrained, pre‐ and post‐peak height velocity (PHV) children, and how these central factors relate to maximal oxygen consumption.Using echocardiography to quantify left ventricular (LV) morphology and carbon monoxide rebreathing to determine blood volume and haemoglobin mass, we identified that training‐related differences in LV morphology are evident in pre‐PHV children, with haematological differences also observed between pre‐PHV girls. However, the breadth and magnitude of cardiovascular remodelling was more pronounced post‐PHV.Cardiac and haematological measures provide significant predictive models for maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$) in children that are much stronger post‐PHV, suggesting that other important determinants within the oxygen transport chain could account for the majority of variance in V̇O2max${\dot{V}_{{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{max}}}}$ before puberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During pregnancy, assessment of cardiac output (1), a fundamental measure of cardiovascular function, provides important insight into maternal adaptation. However, methods for dynamic measurement require validation. The purpose of this study was to estimate the agreement of measured by echocardiography and Modelflow® at rest and during submaximal exercise in non-pregnant (n = 18), pregnant (n = 15, 22-26 weeks gestation) and postpartum women (n = 12, 12-16 weeks post-delivery). Simultaneous measurements of derived from echocardiography [criterion] and Modelflow® were obtained at rest and during lowmoderate intensity (25% and 50% peak power output) cycling exercise and compared using Bland-Altman analysis and limits of agreement. Agreement between echocardiography and Modelflow® was poor in nonpregnant, pregnant and postpartum women at rest (mean difference ± SD: -1.1 ± 3.4; -1.2 ± 2.9; -1.9 ± 3.2 L.min-1), and this remained evident during exercise. The Modelflow® method is not recommended for determination in research involving young, healthy non-pregnant and pregnant women at rest or during dynamic challenge. Previously published data from studies utilising this method should be interpreted with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between aerobic fitness (AF), fatness, and coronary-heart-disease (CHD) risk factors in 12- to 13-year-olds. The data were obtained from 208 schoolchildren (100 boys; 108 girls) ages 12.9 ± 0.3 years. Measurements included AF, indices of obesity, blood pressure, blood lipids and lipoproteins, fibrinogen, homocysteine, and C-reactive protein. An inverse relationship was found between AF and fatness (p = .05). Fatness was related to a greater number of CHD risk factors than fitness was (p = .05). Further analysis revealed fatness to be an independent predictor of triglyceride and blood-pressure levels (p = .05). Our findings indicate that, for young people, fatness rather than fitness is independently related to CHD risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To comprehensively characterize cardiac structure and function, from infancy to adulthood. In male and female wild-born captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) living in sanctuaries. ANIMALS 290 wild-born captive chimpanzees. PROCEDURES Physical and echocardiographic examinations were performed on anesthetized chimpanzees in 3 sanctuaries in Africa between October 2013 and May 2017. Results were evaluated across age groups and between sexes, and potential differences were assessed with multiple I-way independent Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS Results indicated that left ventricular diastolic and systolic function declined at a younger age in males than in females. Although differences in right ventricular diastolic function were not identified among age groups, right ventricular systolic function was lower in adult chimpanzees (> 12 years old), compared with subadult (8 to 12 years old) and juvenile (5 to 7 years old) chimpanzees. In addition, male subadult and adult chimpanzees had larger cardiac wall dimensions and chamber volumes than did their female counterparts. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results of the present study provided useful reference intervals for cardiac structure and function in captive chimpanzees categorized on the basis of age and sex; however, further research is warranted to examine isolated and combined impacts of blood pressure, age, body weight, and anesthetic agents on cardiac structure and function in chimpanzees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key points: We sought to determine the isolated and combined influence of hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction on the decrease in left ventricular (LV) function and maximal exercise capacity observed under hypobaric hypoxia.We performed echocardiography and maximal exercise tests at sea level (344 m), and following 5–10 days at the Barcroft Laboratory (3800 m; White Mountain, California) with and without (i) plasma volume expansion to sea level values and (ii) administration of the pulmonary vasodilatator sildenafil in a double‐blinded and placebo‐controlled trial.The high altitude‐induced reduction in LV filling and ejection was abolished by plasma volume expansion but to a lesser extent by sildenafil administration; however, neither intervention had a positive effect on maximal exercise capacity.Both hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction play a role in the reduction of LV filling at 3800 m, but the increase in LV filling does not influence exercise capacity at this moderate altitude. We aimed to determine the isolated and combined contribution of hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in limiting left ventricular (LV) function and exercise capacity under chronic hypoxaemia at high altitude. In a double‐blinded, randomised and placebo‐controlled design, 12 healthy participants underwent echocardiography at rest and during submaximal exercise before completing a maximal test to exhaustion at sea level (SL; 344 m) and after 5–10 days at 3800 m. Plasma volume was normalised to SL values, and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction was reversed by administration of sildenafil (50 mg) to create four unique experimental conditions that were compared with SL values: high altitude (HA), Plasma Volume Expansion (HA‐PVX), Sildenafil (HA‐SIL) and Plasma Volume Expansion with Sildenafil (HA‐PVX‐SIL). High altitude exposure reduced plasma volume by 11% (P < 0.01) and increased pulmonary artery systolic pressure (19.6 ± 4.3 vs. 26.0 ± 5.4, P < 0.001); these differences were abolished by PVX and SIL respectively. LV end‐diastolic volume (EDV) and stroke volume (SV) were decreased upon ascent to high altitude, but were comparable to sea level in the HA‐PVX trial. LV EDV and SV were also elevated in the HA‐SIL and HA‐PVX‐SIL trials compared to HA, but to a lesser extent. Neither PVX nor SIL had a significant effect on the LV EDV and SV response to exercise, or the maximal oxygen consumption or peak power output. In summary, at 3800 m both hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction contribute to the decrease in LV filling, but restoring LV filling does not confer an improvement in maximal exercise performance. Key points: We sought to determine the isolated and combined influence of hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction on the decrease in left ventricular (LV) function and maximal exercise capacity observed under hypobaric hypoxia.We performed echocardiography and maximal exercise tests at sea level (344 m), and following 5–10 days at the Barcroft Laboratory (3800 m; White Mountain, California) with and without (i) plasma volume expansion to sea level values and (ii) administration of the pulmonary vasodilatator sildenafil in a double‐blinded and placebo‐controlled trial.The high altitude‐induced reduction in LV filling and ejection was abolished by plasma volume expansion but to a lesser extent by sildenafil administration; however, neither intervention had a positive effect on maximal exercise capacity.Both hypovolaemia and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction play a role in the reduction of LV filling at 3800 m, but the increase in LV filling does not influence exercise capacity at this moderate altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Findings: What is the central question of this study?What is the role of heart muscle function in the increased output of remodelled, larger hearts?What is the main finding and its importance?The greater stroke volume of endurance athletes is not associated with enhanced function of the heart muscle (i.e. left ventricular twist, torsion and twist‐to‐shortening) in normal and low‐oxygen environments. These data indicate that, in the process of cardiac adaptation, left ventricular twist may play an important role that is not related to generating a larger output. Since enlarged hearts with low output can develop in disease, the present findings may influence the future interpretation of heart muscle function in patients. Despite increased stroke volume (SV), 'athlete's heart' has been proposed to have a similar left ventricular (LV) muscle function – as represented by LV twist – compared with the untrained state. However, the underpinning mechanisms and the associations between SV/cardiac output and LV twist during exercise are unknown. We hypothesised that endurance athletes would have a significantly lower twist‐to‐shortening ratio (TwSR, a parameter that relates twist to the shortening of heart muscle layers) at rest, but significantly greater LV muscle function during exercise. Eleven endurance trained male runners and 13 untrained males were tested at rest and during supine cycling exercise in normoxia and hypoxia (increased cardiac output but unaltered SV). Despite the expected cardiac remodelling in endurance athletes, LV twist, torsion, TwSR, strain and strain rate ('LV systolic mechanics') did not differ significantly between groups (P > 0.05). Structural remodelling, as per relative wall thickness, and LV twist did not correlate (r2 = 0.04, P = 0.33). In normoxia and hypoxia, exercise increased LV systolic mechanics in both groups (P < 0.001), but with different relationships to SV and cardiac output. Conversely to our hypothesis, hearts of different size had similar LV systolic mechanics, suggesting that similar twist, torsion and TwSR at rest and during exercise irrespective of cardiac output may be an important mechanism in healthy hearts. We hypothesise that the regulatory 'purpose' of LV twist may be related to the sensing of maximal cardiac myofibre stress, which may act as a biologically purposeful limiter to contraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to the repetitive overhead activity involved in playing tennis and the physical demands of the game, shoulder joint injury is common. There is limited research available describing sport specific risk factors for injury in tennis, however, changes in shoulder rotational range of motion (ROM) have been associated with injury in other overhead 'throwing' type sports. Purpose: This study had two purposes: i) to identify reference values for passive glenohumeral joint rotational ROM in elite tennis players, and, ii) to investigate differences in ROM between various age groups of players. Study design: Cross-sectional analysis. Methods: Data was collected at national performance camps held at a National Tennis Centre between September 2012 and July 2015. One hundred and eighty-four tennis players aged between 11 and 24 years took part. All had a top eight national ranking within their respective age group. Participants were divided into three age groups; under 14 years, 14-15 years, and 16 years and over. The main outcome measures were dominant and non-dominant internal and external rotation as well as total glenohumeral joint passive ROM. Results: Reduced internal, and greater external rotation passive ROM were identified on the dominant side (p < 0.05), however, no side-to-side differences in total rotation ROM were found (p > 0.05). A glenohumeral joint internal rotation deficit (GIRD) was prevalent on the dominant side, which increased in magnitude with rising player age. Differences in dominant side internal and external rotation ROM were identified between age groups with the 14-15-year olds having less internal and greater external rotation than the under 14-year olds and the over 16-year old athletes (p < 0.05). The total range of motion values were not found to differ between age groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: This study provides reference values for glenohumeral joint rotational ROM in elite tennis players and demonstrates age specific differences. Future studies should investigate links between changes in ROM and injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased left ventricular (LV) twist and untwisting rate (LV twist mechanics) are essential responses of the heart to exercise. However, previously a large variability in LV twist mechanics during exercise has been observed, which complicates the interpretation of results. This study aimed to determine some of the physiological sources of variability in LV twist mechanics during exercise. Sixteen healthy males (age: 22 ± 4 years, O2peak: 45.5 ± 6.9 ml∙kg-1∙min-1, range of individual anaerobic threshold (IAT): 32–69% of O2peak) were assessed at rest and during exercise at: i) the same relative exercise intensity, 40%peak, ii) at 2% above IAT, and, iii) at 40%peak with hypoxia (40%peak+HYP). LV volumes were not significantly different between exercise conditions (P > 0.05). However, the mean margin of error of LV twist was significantly lower (F2,47 = 2.08, P < 0.05) during 40%peak compared with IAT (3.0 vs. 4.1 degrees). Despite the same workload and similar LV volumes, hypoxia increased LV twist and untwisting rate (P < 0.05), but the mean margin of error remained similar to that during 40%peak (3.2 degrees, P > 0.05). Overall, LV twist mechanics were linearly related to rate pressure product. During exercise, the intra-individual variability of LV twist mechanics is smaller at the same relative exercise intensity compared with IAT. However, the absolute magnitude (degrees) of LV twist mechanics appears to be associated with the prevailing rate pressure product. Exercise tests that evaluate LV twist mechanics should be standardised by relative exercise intensity and rate pressure product be taken into account when interpreting results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relative age effect (RAE) refers to the immediate and long-term consequences of age difference within an age grouping. In sporting contexts, it has been widely shown that those born in the first quarter gain an advantage over those born in the last quarter of the year. Rugby Union has received scant attention in relation to RAE. The primary purpose of the present study was to examine the presence and prevalence of RAE in Welsh age grade Rugby Union. A further purpose was to consider how coaches' selection processes have the potential to contribute to the manifestation of RAE. A sequential multi-method research typology was adopted to gain a richer, more contextualized understanding of RAE. Results revealed that RAE was evident in all age groups of Welsh junior club rugby from 'Under 7-19 yrs'. Odds ratios showed that the magnitude of the RAE increases with the three levels of performance (district, regional and national) above the club game. Further, the process of selection had characteristics that increased the risk of RAE occurring, especially a propensity to use physical characteristics as the primary selection criteria when selecting for representative teams. Also, coaches' overemphasis on game performance and winning appeared to determine that the older, potentially bigger, faster, stronger players are preferred over the younger less physically mature players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the independent relationships between cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness with cardiometabolic risk in adolescents. Subjects were 192 adolescents (118 boys), aged 15–17.5 years. The 2 m multi-stage fitness test assessed cardiorespiratory fitness and the counter movement jump assessed muscular fitness. Additional measures included interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, adiponectin, fibrinogen and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. Regression analysis revealed that cardiorespiratory fitness was negatively related to cardiometabolic risk (β = –0.014,p< 0.001). With additional adjustment for muscular fitness the relationship remained significant (β = –0.015,p< 0.001). Muscular fitness was negatively related to cardiometabolic risk (β = –0.021,p< 0.001) and remained significant after adjustment for cardiorespiratory fitness. Participants in the least-fit quartile for both cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness had significantly poorer cardiometabolic risk scores than those in the other quartiles. Findings revealed that muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness are significantly associated with cardiometabolic risk independently of one another. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: With accumulating evidence suggesting that CVD has its origins in childhood, the purpose of this study was to examine whether a high intensity training (HIT) intervention could enhance the CVD risk profile of secondary school aged adolescents in a time efficient manner. Methods: Participants in the study were adolescent school children (64 boys, 25 girls, 16.7 ± 0.6 years). The intervention group (30 boys, 12 girls) performed three weekly exercise sessions over 7 weeks with each session consisting of either four to six repeats of maximal sprint running within a 20 m area with 30 s recovery. The control group were instructed to continue their normal behaviour. All participants had indices of obesity, blood pressure and nine biochemical risk markers for cardiovascular disease recorded as well as four physical performance measures at baseline and post-intervention. Feedback was provided through informal discussion throughout the intervention period as well as post-intervention focus groups. Statistical differences between and within groups were determined by use of paired samples t-tests and ANCOVA. Results: Significant enhancements (P ⩽ 0.05) in vertical jump performance, 10m sprint speed and cardiorespiratory fitness was evident in the intervention group whereas a significant decrease in both agility and vertical jump performance was evident in the control group. Participants in the intervention group also experienced a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure post-intervention. Limited changes occurred with respect to the biochemical markers although both groups did experience a significant increase in LDL post-intervention whilst the control group experienced a significant decrease in total cholesterol. No apparent differences were evident between groups post intervention for any of the biochemical markers. Feedback indicated that participants endorsed the use of the intervention as an effective means of exercise. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that high intensity exercise interventions may be used in the school setting for adolescents as a means of improving measures of physical fitness. Further investigations involving a larger cohort of participants, taken from different schools, is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides information on a study which analyzed the impact of exercise duration and intensity compared with traditional endurance exercise on both novel and traditional markers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in youth. Risk factors linked to the development of CVD are listed. Metabolic measurements are presented. The insulin concentrations, aerobic fitness, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels of those in the moderate (MOD) and high intensity (HIT) exercise groups are also examined.

The current drastic escalation in obesity may be contributing to the exponential rise in drugs used for image enhancement. Drugs such as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are perceived as a viable method of achieving a perfect physique. They are also the most widely abused drugs in sport. The Internet has encouraged the abuse of expensive drugs, particularly human growth hormone (hGH), resulting in increased importation for personal use. The substantial increase in this market has opened up avenues for counterfeiting, estimated as a multi-million pound business. The acute adverse effects from contaminated vials may result in a variety of pathologies including communicable diseases. In 2007, in the UK, a series of intramuscular abscesses, requiring surgical treatment, led us to study samples obtained from the underground market. The analysis of 38 parenteral samples and 19 oral samples of tablets was performed by a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory, in an attempt to establish the extent of available counterfeit products. Fifty-three per cent (20) of the injectable AAS esters and 21% (4) of the oral tablets were counterfeit. Culture and sensitivity revealed the presence of skin commensal organisms, which may have contributed to the development of the abscesses. Users of AAS and hGH for sport, including bodybuilding, are currently risking their health because of counterfeit and poorly controlled products. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the dietary habits of Welsh 12-13 year olds. A cohort of 84 boys and 81 girls, age 12.9 SD 0.3 years; body mass 51.3 SD 12.6 kg; and stature 1.54 SD 0.08 m, completed a food frequency questionnaire and seven-day food diary. Mean daily kilocalories (kcal/d), and percentages of total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, and protein, as well as fibre intake were calculated. The mean daily intake of total fat for this cohort was 34.7 percent, for saturated fat the value was 13.8 percent. The mean daily intake of carbohydrate and protein were 50.5 and 14.9 percent, respectively. The schoolchildren in this study reported a mean daily fibre intake of 12.3 g. The absolute intake of kilocalories was significantly greater (p ≤ 0.05) among boys than girls, but no other significant differences were reported. This study revealed that the diets of Welsh 12-13 year olds exceeded recommendations for fat, while at the same time did not meet the recommendations for fibre, and particularly fruit and vegetable intake. Our data indicated that, despite schools offering a range of healthy lunchtime foods, young people continue to consume an energy-dense and nutrient-poor diet, both at school and at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academics have a responsibility to ensure that their research findings are as truthful as possible. InIn every issue of a scientific journal, a large number of significance tests are reported (usually using P <0.05). Of course, most of these results will be true/correct. Unfortunately, due to the nature of sampling, researchers will occasionally make errors, often referred to as type I (probability = α) and type II (probability = β) errors. The power of a test (1-β) is the probability of correctly rejecting a false null hypothesis - that is, correctly detecting a real or true effect. Factors that are known to influence power include: (1) the level of significance (α), (2) the size of the difference or relationship in the population (the effect), (3) the sample size, and (4) unexplained error variance. As researchers, we have little control over most of these factors. The one factor that we have some influence over, however, is the ability to reduce the unexplained error variance. In the present article, we describe a range of methods that will increase the probability that a researcher has correctly identified a real effect by increasing the power of their statistical tests. Such methods will include ways of designing experiments to reduce error and uncertainty. The use of blocking and randomized block designs will reduce unexplained error, such as adopting matched or repeated-measures designs rather than using independent observations. The other method of reducing unexplained errors is to adopt more appropriate (e.g. biologically correct) models and checking the distribution assumptions associated with such models. In conclusion, researchers are responsible for maximizing the likelihood that their results are as accurate and truthful as possible. By carefully planning their experiments and adopting appropriate models, researchers are more likely to publish their findings with a greater degree of confidence, but not certainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "A simple statistical method for assessing the reliability of data entered into sport performance analysis systems," by Stephen-Mark Cooper, Mike Hughes, Peter O'Donoghue, and Alan M. Peter is presented.

In recent years the British media have made much of the apparent decline of standards in British sports. In order to interrogate the veracity of media assumptions regarding the standards of conduct in major British sports, a selection of British sports spectators were interviewed in order to examine: (i) their perceptions of the values and norms of sport; (ii) whether they thought that sporting conduct as currently demonstrated by UK sportsmen and women was positive and related to some ideal notion of the 'ethos of sport' and the 'spirit of the game;' (iii) whether they thought that there had been an improvement, a decline or no change in the ethical standards of conduct in those sports; and (iv) views on the impact of new technologies on the values and norms of sport. At least 200 questionnaires were collected from spectators at each of the following major sporting events: (a) the English Nationwide Football League Divisions 2 and 3 play-offs, Cardiff, May 2001; (b) the All England Tennis Championships, Wimbledon, July 2001; (c) the England vs Australia Cricket Test match, Edgbaston Birmingham, July 2001; and (iv) the British Open Golf Championships, Royal Lytham and St Annes, Lancashire, July 2001. Results showed that there were statistically significant differences in what sports spectators thought about British professional sportspersons acting in a fair and sporting way and also that standards of conduct had generally declined over the last 10 years. A general pattern of distribution emerged where the team sports (cricket and football) were less favourably perceived than the individual sports (golf and tennis). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study considers the physical activity (PA) and dietary habits of British young people according to socio-economic status (SES).Methods The PA and dietary habits of 98 boys and 101 girls (12.9 0.3 years) from two Welsh secondary schools (school 1 and school 2) were examined. Free school meal eligibility and Census 2001 data were used as indicators of SES. School 1 was designated high SES, while school 2 represented low SES. Participants were classified according to SES. Physical activity was estimated by seven-day recall and questionaire; dietary patterns were assessed using a seven-day food diary and questionnaire.Results Two-thirds of all participants had not taken part in vigorous activity over the last week. Furthermore, 83.8 per cent of participants did not meet the Health Education Authority's5 recommendation of one hour per day moderate activity. Boys were more active than girls, (P ≤ 0.05), but SES did not influence time spent in activity. Ninety-four percent of participants were taken to school via motorized transport. There were no significant differences in fat intake between the sexes or across SES. In addition, 93 per cent of the participants, irrespective of SES, exceeded the 10 per cent saturated fat cut off point recommended by the World Health Organization12Conclusion Physical activity and dietary patterns are modifiable through suitable lifestyle changes. The present data support the notion that preventative strategies for combating chronic diseases should begin early in life and across socio-economic statuses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study determined the prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors in young people of differing socio-economic status (SES). A cohort of 100 boys and 108 girls, aged 12.9, SD 0.3 years drawn of differing SES were assessed for CHD risk factors. Measurements included indices of obesity, blood pressure, aerobic fitness, diet, blood lipids and lipoproteins. Significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) were detected with respect to SES, for systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, but in boys only Significant sex differences (P ≤ 0.05) were identified for systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, aerobic fitness, waist to hip ratio, summation of four skinfold thicknesses, average daily kilocalorie intake, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, increased body fatness, low aerobic fitness, a high fat diet and elevated lipoprotein (a), were the most frequently identified CHD risk factors in this cohort. This study reveals a high incidence of CHD risk factors in young people irrespective of SES and sex, and highlights the need for vigilance in identifying such risk factors from a young age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we identify appropriate statistical methods for analysing categorical differences in discrete variables or 'performance indicators' resulting from performance analysis. The random mechanisms associated with discrete events do not follow a normal distribution; that is, the normal distribution is a continuous not a discrete probability distribution. We propose appropriate statistical methods based on two key discrete probability distributions, the Poisson and binomial distributions. Two approaches are proposed and compared using examples from notational analysis. The first approach is based on the classic chi-square test of significance (both the goodness-of-fit test and the test of independence). The second approach adopts a more contemporary method based on log-linear and logit models fitted using the statistical software GLIM. Provided relatively simple one-way and two-way comparisons in categorical data are required, both of these approaches result in very similar conclusions. However, as soon as more complex models or higher-order comparisons are required, the approach based on log-linear and logit models is shown to be more effective. Indeed, when investigating those factors and categorical differences associated with binomial or binary response variables, such as the proportion of winners when attempting decisive shots in squash or the proportion of goals scored from all shots in association football, logit models become the only realistic method available. By applying log-linear and logit models to discrete events resulting from notational analysis, greater insight into the underlying mechanisms associated with sport performance can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to identify significant relationships between selected anthropometric and kinematic variables and ball release speed. Nine collegiate fast-medium bowlers (mean ±s: age 21.0 ± 0.9 years, body mass 77.2 ± 8.1 kg, height 1.83 ± 0.1 m) were filmed and reconstructed three-dimensionally. Ball release speeds were measured by a previously validated Speedchek™ Personal Sports Radar (Tribar Industries, Canada). Relationships between selected anthropometric variablesand ball release speed and between kinematic variables and ball release speed were investigated using Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients (r). A significant relationship was found between the horizontal velocity during the pre-delivery stride (r = 0.728, P< 0.05) and ball release speed (31.5 ± 1.9 m·s[sup -1]). We believe that the high correlation was due to the bowlers using techniques that allowed them to contribute more of the horizontal velocity created during the run-up to ball release speed. We also found that the angular velocity (40.6 ± 3.4 rad·s[sup -1]) of the right humerus had a low correlation (r = 0.358,P> 0.05) with ball release speed. Although the action of the wrist was not analysed because of an inadequate frame rate, we found high correlations between ball release speed and shoulder-wrist length (661 ± 31 mm;r = 0.626,P< 0.05) and ball release speed and total arm length (860 ± 36 mm;r = 0.583, P < 0.05). We conclude that the variance in release speed within this group may be accounted for by the difference in radial length between the axis of rotation at the glenohumeral joint and the release point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athlete monitoring enables sports science practitioners to collect information to determine how athletes respond to training loads (TL) and the demands of competition. To date, recommendations for females are often adapted from their male counterparts. There is currently limited information available on TL monitoring in female Gaelic team sports in Ireland. The collection and analysis of female athlete monitoring data can provide valuable information to support the development of female team sports. Athletic monitoring can also support practitioners to help minimize risk of excessive TL and optimize potential athletic performance. The aims of this narrative review are to provide: (i) an overview of TL athlete monitoring in female team sports, (ii) a discussion of the potential metrics and tools used to monitor external TL and internal TL, (iii) the advantages and disadvantages of TL modalities for use in Gaelic team sports, and (iv) practical considerations on how to monitor TL to aid in the determination of meaningful change with female Gaelic team sports athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To examine potential relationships between ECG characteristics and echocardiographic measures of cardiac structure in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). ANIMALS 341 chimpanzees (175 males and 166 females) from 5 sanctuaries and 2 zoological collections. PROCEDURES Chimpanzees were anesthetized for routine health examinations between May 2011 and July 2017 as part of the International Primate Heart Project and, during the same anesthetic events, underwent 12-lead ECG and transthoracic echocardiographic assessments. Relationships between results for ECG and those for echocardiographic measures of atrial areas, left ventricular internal diameter in diastole (LVIDd), and mean left ventricular wall thicknesses (MLVWT) were assessed with correlational analysis, then multiple linear regression analyses were used to create hierarchical models to predict cardiac structure from ECG findings. RESULTS Findings indicated correlations (r = -0.231 to 0.310) between results for ECG variables and echocardiographic measures. The duration and amplitude of P waves in lead II had the strongest correlations with atrial areas. The Sokolow-Lyon criteria, QRS-complex duration, and R-wave amplitude in leads V6 and II had the strongest correlations with MLVWT, whereas the Sokolow-Lyon criteria, QRS-complex duration, and S-wave amplitude in leads V2 and V1 had the strongest correlations with LVIDd. However, the ECG predictive models that were generated only accounted for 17%, 7%, 11%, and 8% of the variance in the right atrial end-systolic area, left atrial end-systolic area, MLVWT, and LVIDd, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that relationships existed between ECG findings and cardiac morphology in the chimpanzees of the present study; however, further research is required to examine whether the predictive models generated can be modified to improve their clinical utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. This study investigates cardiovascular disease risk factor response in adolescents following introduction of brisk walking into curriculum lessons. Design. Quasi-experimental. Setting. School-based. Subjects. An intervention group consisted of 115 (aged 12.4 ± 0.5 y) year eight participants, and 77 (aged 12.1 ± 1.1 y) year seven and year nine participants formed a control. Intervention. An 18-week cross-curricular physical activity intervention was implemented in one secondary school. Measures. Adiposity variables, blood pressure, lipids, lipoproteins, glucose, insulin, high- sensitivity C-reactive protein, high-molecular-weight adiponectin, aerobic fitness, physical activity behavior, and diet were assessed preintervention and postintervention. Analysis. Dependent and independent t-tests. Results. Prevalence of elevated waist circumference (9.8% vs. 6.9%), systolic blood pressure (3.3% vs. 0%), triglycerides (2.5% vs. 1.2%), and reduced high density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.7% vs. 2.7%) decreased in the intervention group. Significant improvements in high density lipoprotein cholesterol to total cholesterol ratio (mean ± SD: 2% ± 4% [confidence interval (Cl)0.05 = 1% to 2%], t80 = -3.5, p = .001) and glucose (-.1 ± .4 mmol/L [Cl0.05 = -.2% to 0%], t79 3.2, p = .002) were evident for the intervention group. Conclusion. The Activity Knowledge Circuit may prove to be a sustainable, effective, and cost-effective strategy to engage schoolchildren in physical activity on a daily basis. A longer- duration intervention is required to fully understand risk factor response in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to compare acceleration and deceleration demands of intercounty Camogie players, and differences across playing positions and halves of play., Hypothesis: The middle 3 positions will have greatest accelerations and decelerations variables across match play and halves of play., Study Design: Nonrandomized, repeated measures design., Level of Evidence: Level 4., Methods: Global positioning systems (GPS) (10 Hz) collected data from 28 participants during 18 competitive matches across 2 seasons; 206 individual player datasets were analyzed., Results: Half-backs ( P < 0.05; effect size [ES], -1.75) and midfielders ( P < 0.05; ES, -1.68) covered significantly greater total number of accelerations than full-forwards. In acceleration zone 4, midfielders ( P < 0.05; ES, = -1.67) and half forwards covered a significantly greater number than full-forwards ( P < 0.01; ES, = -1.41). Midfielders accumulated a significantly greater distance in acceleration zone 4 than full-backs ( P < 0.05; ES, = -0.57). Significant decrements were observed between halves in total number of accelerations ( P < 0.01; ES, = 0.49), accelerations in zones 1 to 4 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.16-0.43), total distance of accelerations, and acceleration distance in zones 2 to 4 ( P < 0.05; ES, 0.25; P < 0.01; ES, 0.45; P < 0.01; ES, 0.38). There were significant decrements in the total number of decelerations ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.43), number of decelerations in zones 2 ( P < 0.05; ES, 0.25), 3 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.45), and 4 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.38), and total deceleration distance ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.16)., Conclusion: Half-backs and midfielders covered significantly greater total number of accelerations than full-forwards. Significant decrements in several acceleration and deceleration variables were observed between halves., Clinical Relevance: Players competing in intercounty Camogie should receive progressive exposure to acceleration and deceleration-based movement demands to prepare players for intercounty Camogie match play., Competing Interests: The authors report no potential conflicts of interest in the development and publication of this article.

Information on the health status and physical activity of Scottish adolescents is limited. This study examines the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in Scottish adolescents by socioeconomic status (SES). Participants were recruited from two high schools that differed in the SES of the students in attendance. The sample included 73 boys and 34 girls (16.4 ± 0.6 years). Variables included anthropometry, physical activity, physical fitness, blood pressure, diet, and 11 metabolic markers of CVD risk. Significant sex differences (P ≤ 0.01) were noted for stature, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular power, sprint speed, and several CVD risk factors: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Boys from a lower SES had significantly higher levels of glucose and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) but lower levels of adiponectin compared with boys from a higher SES. Girls from a lower SES had significantly (P ≤ 0.01) higher glucose and PAI-1 levels but lower levels of insulin and adiponectin than girls from a higher SES. High fat diets, low physical activity levels, and elevated CRP and total cholesterol levels were the CVD risk factors most commonly identified as being at-risk levels in this cohort, regardless of sex or SES. SES differences were not consistently apparent, but several CVD risk factors were identified as elevated in this sample of adolescents, regardless of sex or SES.