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Soccer kicking kinematics has received wide interest in literature. However, while the instep‐kick has been broadly studied, only few researchers investigated the inside‐of‐the‐foot kick, which is one of the most frequently performed techniques during games. In particular, little knowledge is available about differences in kinematics when kicking with the preferred and non‐preferred leg. A motion analysis system recorded the three‐dimensional coordinates of reflective markers placed upon the body of nine amateur soccer players (23.0 ± 2.1 years, BMI 22.2 ± 2.6 kg/m2), who performed 30 pass‐kicks each, 15 with the preferred and 15 with the non‐preferred leg. We investigated skill kinematics while maintaining a perspective on the complete picture of movement, looking for laterality related differences. The main focus was laid on: anatomical angles, contribution of upper limbs in kick biomechanics, kinematics of the body Center of Mass (CoM), which describes the whole body movement and is related to balance and stability. When kicking with the preferred leg, CoM displacement during the ground‐support phase was 13% higher (p<0.001), normalized CoM height was 1.3% lower (p<0.001) and CoM velocity 10% higher (p<0.01); foot and shank velocities were about 5% higher (p<0.01); arms were more abducted (p<0.01); shoulders were rotated more towards the target (p<0.01, 6° mean orientation difference). We concluded that differences in motor control between preferred and non‐preferred leg kicks exist, particularly in the movement velocity and upper body kinematics. Coaches can use these results to provide effective instructions to players in the learning process, moving their focus on kicking speed and upper body behavior.

Background Gait variability can be considered an indirect measure of gait stability, in particular regarding temporal or spatial variability assessment. Physical activity, such as walking, is advised for the elderly and can be improved by gait stability. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between gait stability and physical activity in women of different age ranges. Methods Forty-two healthy women of different age ranges (18-40 yrs. and 65-75 yrs.) were recruited in the study. To assess physical activity, the subjects wore a multi-sensor activity monitor for a whole week, inferring the time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). MVPA were analysed in bouts of at least 10 subsequent minutes (MVPAbouts) and in overall minutes (MVPAtot). A kinematic analysis was performed with an optoelectronic system to calculate gait variability - expressed as standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variability (CV) of step width, stride length, stance and swing time (during treadmill walking at different speeds). Results Elderly women, with high walking speed (5 km/h), and moderate step width variability (CV = 8–27%), met the recommended levels of physical activity (MVPAtot and MVPAbouts). Furthermore, gait variability, adjusted for age and number of falls, was significantly and negatively associated with MVPAtot only at 3.5 km/h, and with MVPAbouts only at 4 km/h. Conclusions In a population of healthy elderly women, gait variability was significantly and negatively associated with the level of physical activity. Healthy elderly women, with moderate gait variability (step width variability), and high preferred walking speed, seem to be able to meet the recommended levels of physical activity.

AIM: This study aims to: 1) describe the current anthropometric profiles of Kenyan marathon runners and 2) establish a set of reference values useful for future investigations on athlete selection, talent identification, and training programme development. METHODS: The participants were 14 male top-class Kenyan marathon runners (mean [s] age 27.71 [3.75] yrs, height 171.21 [6.12] cm, body mass 57.71 [4.02] kg, marathon personal best 02h 07min 16s (01min 55s); training volume: 180-220 km·wk-1; high:low intensity training ratio: 1:2). The anthropometric profiles included the measurement of skinfolds, and segment lengths, breadths, and girths. To estimate body density (BD) multiple regression equations were calculated using the sum of 7-skinfolds method and then converted to percentage of body fat (%BF). The somatotype, somatotype dispersion mean (SDM), somatotype attitudinal mean (SAM), and height to weight ratio (HWR) as well as the skinfolds extremity to trunk ratio (E:T) were also calculated. RESULTS: The mean (s) of BD, %BF, SDM, SAM, HWR and E:T were 1.13 (0.02), 8.87 (0.07) %, 4.58 (3.62), 0.51 (0.09), 44.32 (1.06), and 0.36 (0.11), respectively. The mean (s) endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy were 1.53 (0.32), 1.61 (1.81), and 3.86 (0.78), respectively. CONCLUSION: Top-class Kenyan marathon runners seem to have ectomorphy as dominant, with endomorphy and mesomorphy more than one-half unit lower. Despite population comparisons would be required to identify any connection between specific anthropometric dimensions, these reference data should be useful to practitioners and researchers, providing useful information for talent identification and development and for the assessment of training progression in marathon.

Aim: The aims of this paper were: 1) to evaluate the feasibility of test for evaluating physical fitness (PF) in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN); 2) to investigate the effects of nutritional rehabilitation in this population of patients; and 3) to compare their level of fitness scores (at baseline and after weight restoration) with an age-matched healthy control group. Methods: PF was assessed with an adapted version of the Eurofit Physical Fitness Test Battery (EPFTB) administered to 37 consecutive female AN patients, at baseline and after weight restoration, and to 57 healthy age-matched females. Results: The inpatient treatment, based on cognitive behavior therapy, was associated with a significant improvement in BMI (from 14.5±1.5 to 18.8±1.1, P<0.001) and in 5 out of 6 EPFTB tests (P<0.05) in the AN group. However, both in pre and post, AN patients showed significant lower EPFTB than the control group (all P<0.001) with the exception of the Sit-Up score. Conclusion: Results indicated that PF is lower in AN patients than in controls both at baseline and after weight restoration. Future studies should evaluate if the inclusion of an individualized health-enhancing physical activity program might improve the restoration of physical fitness.

Aim: In the recovery period after exercise there is an increase in oxygen uptake defined as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). The magnitude of EPOC after aerobic exercise may depend on duration and intensity of exercise, on type of exercise (split exercise or continuous sessions) and on subjects’ training status and sex. Weight loss can be achieved by increasing energy expenditure (EE). EPOC causes an increase in caloric burn during the recovery period, to be taken into consideration in relation to energy balance and weight loss. It is not clear whether various modes of aerobic exercise affect EPOC differently. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of moderate intensity of cycling (C), treadmill (T), arm crank (A) exercises, cross-training exercise (CT) and moderate to vigorous intensity activities of daily living (ADL) on EPOC. Methods: Six young moderately active females (age, 24.2±0.8 yr; BMI, 21.5±2.4 kg/m2; RMR, 1288±78.2 kcal/day; V.O2peak cycle ergometer, 40.3±4.3 mL/kg/min; V.O2peak treadmill, 40.9±6.9 mL/kg/min; V.O2peak arm ergometer, 22.2±3.4 mL/kg/min) participated in the study over a three-week period. In the first week subjects filled a Baecke questionnaire on habitual physical activity, underwent a resting metabolic rate (RMR) measurement and 3 incremental tests to exhaustion (V.O2peak at treadmill, cycle ergometer and arm ergometer). In the second and third week they completed five bouts of 30 min of exercise at 60% of V.O2peak separated by 48 hours of rest: a continuous C, T, A, a combined running, cycling and arm crank (CT) for 10 min each and ADL (3-6 METs). Before (30 min pre) and after (2 hours post) each exercise bout a RMR measurement was carried out in a sitting position with indirect calorimetry (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy). A MANOVA and a repeated measures ANOVA were used for data analysis. Results: EPOC ranged in between 7% and 17% of Total Energy Expenditure. EPOC magnitude was also higher for CT than all the othe

PURPOSE: To compare objective and subjective assessments of physical activity (PA) in patients with anorexia nervosa and its effect on treatment outcome. METHODS: Both Actiheart (AH) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were used to assess PA in 52 female patients with anorexia nervosa during the first week of inpatient treatment. RESULTS: No correspondence between PA estimated by IPAQ, which had a tendency to underestimate PA, and that measured by means of AH emerged. A significant association was, however, found between the change in Eating Disorder Examination global score at the end of the treatment and light physical activity (LPA) measured by AH(beta = -0.12, t = -2.44, P = 0.019), but not that estimated by IPAQ. CONCLUSION: PA in patients with anorexia nervosa is underestimated by subjective assessment when compared with objective measurement. Only time spent in LPA, assessed objectively with AH, showed a negative association with improvement in eating disorder psychopathology.

INTRODUCTION Many subjective factors can affect energy cost (V’O2max, [7]; maximal strength and flexibility, [3]) and mechanical work (stride frequency, [6]) of walking. To our knowledge, no studies have been conducted to investigate if the level of daily physical activity (PAL) can affect external mechanical work (WEXT) and net energy cost (NetEC) of treadmill walking. The aim of the study was to analyse the relation between NetEC and WEXT with PAL. 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS 20 healthy adults were recruited in the study and were classified as inactive (INACT) and active (ACT) according to the amount of daily moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Main characteristics are summarized in Table 1. NetEC (obtained from GrossEC– Standing metabolic rate) was analysed with indirect calorimetry (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy) and simultaneously, a kinematic analysis was performed with an optoelectronic system (SMART-E, BTS, Italy) to calculate WEXT during 3 bouts of treadmill walking of 10 min each at 0.97/1.25/1.53 m/s. To assess PAL, subjects wore an activity monitor (Actiheart, CamNtech, UK) for a whole week, inferring time spent in sedentary (SED, <1.5 METs), or moderate to vigorous (MVPA, >3 METs) physical activity. Statistical Analysis: One-way ANOVA was performed to evaluate differences between ACT and INACT. A repeated measure ANOVA (2x3) was used to determine differences between velocities. An ANCOVA analysis was made to find out associations between NetEC and WEXT with PAL. The correlation analysis was performed to investigate relationships between variables. Significance was set at p<0.05. 3. RESULTS When compared with INACT, ACT had a significantly higher amount of MVPA (P<0,0001). No group differences were observed for SED behaviour (Table 2).NetEC increased significantly at all velocities, except for speed from 0.97 to 1.25 m/s. On the contrary, WEXT decreased significantly when velocities grow up, excluding speed from 1.25 to 1.53 m/s (Fig.1-2).No significant a

Introduction Modified joint range of motion (ROM) and spatio-temporal gait parameters in elderly or obese healthy subjects have been found. Authors have hypothesized that these alterations may be due to a reduction in physical performance, especially for strength and flexibility (Daley, 2000; Wearing, 2006; Wert, 2010), but quantitative studies measuring the influence of physical performance on gait pattern are scanty. The aim of this study was to analyse the kinematics of treadmill walking of healthy adults to understand if strength and flexibility could affect gait parameters. Methods 20 healthy adults (age, 26.9±4.7 yr; BMI, 22±1.9 kg/m2; iMVC, 1458±458 N; Flexibility, 34.8±13.6 cm; PWS, 5.5±0.5 km/h) were recruited in the study. Isometric maximal voluntary contraction (iMVC) was measured by two force plates (Twin Plates, Globus, Italy) which were fixed onto the foot platform of a horizontal leg press (Technogym SpA, Gambettola, Italy). Flexibility was assessed by the V-sit and reach test. The preferred walking speed (PWS) was determined on a 50-m section of athletics track. A kinematic analysis was performed with an optoelectronic system (SMART-E, BTS, Italy) during a 10-min bout of treadmill walking at 5.5 km/h. The following parameters were computed: step length and width (m), step frequency (step/min), stance and swing phase durations (% cycle), double support time (% cycle), hip and knee extension (°) and hip and knee ROM (°). Results Significant associations, adjusted for age, height and weight, were identified between iMVC and step width (r=0.501, F=6.04, p=0.024), stance (r=0.537) and swing (r=-0.537) phase durations (F=7.28, p=0.015), double support time (r=0.639, F=12.43, p=0.002), and between Flexibility and step length (r=-0.547, F=7.68, p=0.013). Discussion Our data indicate that lower limb maximal strength and hamstring flexibility influence step length and width, stance and swing phase durations and double support time of treadmill walking, suggest

Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) increases caloric burn during the recovery period, to be considered in relation to energy balance and weight loss. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of various modes of aerobic exercise of moderate intensity on EPOC in a lean (NW) and obese (OB) female population. Methods A population of moderately active lean and obese female (NW: age, 24,3±0,6 yr; BMI, 23,1±2,1 kg/m2; OB: age, 36,3±4,5 yr; BMI, 31±5,4 kg/m2) participated in the study over a 3-week period. Subjects filled a Baecke questionnaire of habitual physical activity and undergone 3 incremental tests to exhaustion (V’O2peak at treadmill, cycle ergometer and arm ergometer). Thereafter they completed five bouts of 30 min of exercise separated by at least 48 hours of rest: treadmill walking_TE, cycling_ CE, arm crank exercise_AE, cross-training exercise combining walking, cycling and arm crank for 10 min each_CTE (60% of V’O2peak) and daily living activities_DLA (3-6 METs). Before (30 min pre) and after (2 hours post) each exercise bout a resting metabolic rate measurement was carried out in a sitting position (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy). A repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyse data. Results EPOC magnitude was not significantly different for the two groups, except for CTE (NW, 9±4,2 l; OB, 2,4±2,4 l; p<0,05), and accounted between 5% and 15% of total energy expenditure (TEE150min). V’O2 during exercise (V’O2ex) and TEE150min were similar for both groups (NW: V’O2ex, 1,3±0,3 l/min; TEE150min, 320,4±57,1 kcal; OB: V’O2ex, 1,2±0,3 l/min; TEE150min, 306,6±45,9 kcal; p=ns). Respiratory exchange ratio was significantly lower for NW when compared with OB during exercise, allowing a greater fat utilization (NW: QR, 0,8±0,1; FAT, 95,1±43,3 kcal; OB: QR, 0,9±0,1; FAT, 59,1±32,5 kcal; p<0,05 and p<0,001, respectively). Discussion This study indicates that analysed aerobic exercises, included DLA, elicit similar EPOC responses. These findings confirm (i)

The studies describing the energy expenditure during offshore sailing regattas are very rare. This is rather disappointing, if we consider that in offshore sailing several environmental and tactical factors may place a considerable physical load and mental stress on our body. PURPOSE: The aim of the study consists in assessing the energy expenditure during long distance offshore sailing and in describing the physical activity intensity involved in this type of competition. METHODS. Six subjects (age: 46.3 ± 3.4 yy; BMI: 26.7 ± 1.7 kg/m2, V’O2max: 2.97 ± 0.56 l/min) participated in the study. During the regatta (double handed, 500 miles in the North Adriatic, lasting 3- 5 days) the subjects wore an activity monitor (Actiheart, CamNtech, E) that allows estimate energy expenditure, physical activity level (PAL) and minutes spent at each level of intensity (sedentary, S, < 1.5 MET; light, L, 1.5 - 2.9 MET; moderate, M: 3.0 - 6.0 MET; vigorous, V: > 6.0). The time spent at each level of intensity was evaluated using oneway ANOVA; pairwise comparisons were performed using Student-Newman-Keuls test. RESULTS. Daily energy expenditure (TEE) amounted, on the average to 3408 ± 453 kcal per day; daily activity energy expenditure (AEE) amounted to 1208 ± 339 kcal per day. PAL, calculated as TEE divided by resting energy expenditure (RMR, estimated with Schofield formula), was 1.8 ± 0.2. Subjects spent a significant (p < 0.001) longer period of time in S (643 ± 193 min per day) and L (516 ± 177 min per day) than in M (95 ± 34 min per day) and V (6 ± 4 min per day) activity. On the average, the subjects slept 5 times per day (± 1.4) for about 36 minutes (± 9) in each sleeping period. CONCLUSION. TEE per day and PAL during double-handed offshore sailing race turned out to be similar to that measured using double-labeled water technique in single-handed offshore sailing (3451 kcal/day and 2.1, respectively). Moreover, this study reports for the first time, not only TEE, but also AEE

The aims of this study were to assess the behaviour of a vibrating platform under different conditions and to compare the effects of an 8-weeks periodised training programme with whole body vibration (WBV) alone or in combination with conventional strength training.Vibrating frequencies, displacements and peak accelerations were tested through a piezoelectric accelerometer under different conditions of load and subjects' position. Eighteen national level female athletes were assigned to one of three different groups performing WBV, conventional strength training (ST), or a combination of the two (WBV+ST). Isometric maximal voluntary contraction, dynamic maximal concentric force, and vertical jump tests were performed before and after the conditioning programme.Vibrating displacements and maximum accelerations measured on the device were not always consistent with their expected values calculated from the display and manufacturers' information (sinusoidal waveforms). WBV alone or in combination with low intensity resistance exercise did not seem to induce significant enhancements in force and power when compared to ST.It appears that WBV cannot substitute parts of strength training loading in a cohort of young female athletes. However, vibration effects might be limited by the behaviour of the commercial platforms as the one used in the study. More studies are needed to analyse the performances of devices and the effectiveness of protocols.

Participation in physical activity (PA) during childhood can help to reduce the onset of risk factors associated with ill health. Seasonal influences play a large role in determining PA behaviors. Lack of information about overweight (OW) and obese (OB) children PA and sedentary (SED) behaviors, evaluated during a whole year, has made it difficult to assess appropriate interventions. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to objectively measure PA behavior in a sample of 6 to 14 yr-old children in order to investigate seasonal and weekly differences in PA and SED habits. METHODS: 18 OW and OB children (OW (n=8): age 10,8±1,2 yr; BMI, 21,9±1,4 kg/m2; OB (n=10): age 10±2,1 yr; BMI 25,6±3,2 kg/m2) were monitored during a whole week 4 times in a year with a Actiheart (AH) monitor (Cambridge Neurotechnology, UK), inferring time spent in sedentary (SED, <1.5 METs) or moderate to vigorous (MVPA, >3 METs) intensity. Data presented provide a minimum of four days of 10-h valid recording per week (at least 1 weekend day is included). A Repeated measure ANOVA was used to analyse data and significance was set at p<0,05. RESULTS: A non significant seasonal difference was detected for time spent in MVPA (spring 129,7±82,4; summer 106,7±76,9; fall 93,5±72; winter 82,7±60,3 min/day) causing, on the contrary, a significant seasonal difference in activity energy expenditure (AEE: spring 660,5±188,3; summer 540,8±132,1; fall 538,9±152,5; winter 482,2±136,2 kcal/day; p<0,05). A significant seasonal difference was found in SED behavior (spring 436,9±95,6; summer 389,7±81,2; fall 479,2±93,3; winter 473,8±80,1 min/day; p<0,05). No significant differences appeared between weekly and weekend days (MVPA: weekdays 100,7±70,1; weekend 110,1±87,8; SED: weekdays 460,6±94,8; weekend 431,6±118,9 min/day). Besides, OW appeared to be more active than OB children (MVPA: OW 122,8±86,2; OB 87,3±60,8 min/day, p<0,05). CONCLUSIONS: The main finding of this study is that AH data, taking activity into account (

Aim. Modern Olympic Pentathlon tournament comprises five sport disciplines and extends over long duration. It is likely that the residual effect of prior exercise creates physiological responses that differ from performing each discipline as a distinct event. Purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of epee fencing (EF) on subsequent swimming performance. Methods. Measured parameters (swimming best time over 200 m, rate of perceived exertion after swimming 200 m at maximal velocity; swimming velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 2 mM of blood lactate; swimming velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 4 mM of blood lactate, blood lactate accumulation, respiratory exchange ratio at the velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 2 mM of blood lactate, highest oxygen uptake, time to exhaustion and blood lactate accumulation during swimming at 1.43 m . s(-1)) were assessed at rest and after an EF competition. Results. A decreased performance level appeared in the test session performed after the EF competition. Cause of the performance deterioration can originate from several factors which include disturbance to swimming technical ability and metabolic malfunction. Conclusion. From the results of the present study, a need for an accurate competition strategy and an adequate carbohydrates intake and hydration, throughout the pentathlon competition disputed during one single day, should be considered a relevant aspect for success in pentathlon.

AIM: Dancesport is increasing its popularity and it becomes to be considered as a real sport. Few studies are available about the physiological strain of dancesport competitions: moreover, recent changes in the official rules make it mandatory to revise our knowledge about the specific physiologic demands during competition. The aim of our study was to evaluate physiological parameters in top-level dancers. METHODS:Twelve competitive dancesport couples (12 Latin-American and 12 Standard dancers) composed the study population. The first testing session was aimed at determining physical and physiological characteristics of athletes in laboratory; the second, at establishing physiological responses during simulated competition on field, involving the measurement of O2 uptake (VO2), heart rate and blood lactate (BL). RESULTS:Male dancers showed a peak-VO2 of 60.9±6.0 and 59.2±7.0 mL/kg/min for Standard and Latin-American dancers, respectively. For females, peak-VO2 was 53.7±5.0 mL/kg/min in Standard and 52.3±5.0 mL/kg/min in Latin-American dancers. During simulated competition, male dancers reached the 75.7±10.6 and 84.2±11.2% of peak-VO2 (P<0.05) for Standard and Latin-American sequence, respectively. For females, no difference was observed (70.8±13.8% in Latin-American and 72.5±12.8% in Standard). Peak-BL during simulated Standard competition was 6.50±2.1 and 6.91±2.6 mM in males and females, respectively, and, for Latin-American sequence, 7.95±2.1 mM in males and 6.04±2.5 mM in females. CONCLUSION:Dancesport can be defined as a sport discipline with an alternate physical activity with medium lasting and high energy-demanding (both aerobic and anaerobic) consecutive phases, separated by short recovery periods. These data must be kept into account while planning specific training programs in sportdancers.

INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to determine the impact of back pain in primary school children and identify any predisposing risk factors. We aimed to address two fundamental questions: 1) What percentage of primary school students suffer for back pain? 2) What are the main risk factors of back pain in this population? METHODS A group of 804 children aged from 5 to 11 years was tested. The sampling involved both sexes and was based on random sampling. Data were collected through a survey sent to the pupil’s parents and involved a questionnaire, SDQ-Ita (R. Goodman, 1997) concerning anthropometric data, ability/ difficulties (psychological /psychosocial) and lifestyle. Specific questions on pain and back diseases were asked only to those parents whose children had already encountered this problem. Data are expressed as Average and Standard Deviation, where appropriate. Graph data are expressed as a percentage. Descriptive Statistics was performed with the Microsoft Office Excel 2003 (Professional Edition). Inferential Statistics was performed with the statistical program Statview 5.0. implementing the Binary Logistic Multiple Regression, also calculating the Odds Ratio and Confidence Interval. RESULTS Risk factors considered were: female sex, the index of weekly lack of movement and family history of back pain. The incidence of back pain in the sample analyzed was 18%. The incidence of back problems steadily increased from the Year 1 (7.4%) to Year 5 (27.5%) of primary school. The difference between the sexes was 5.3%, (20.2% in girls versus 14.9% in males). Pathological familiarity with at least one family member presenting back pain, was found in 48% of sample examined. The data show for Years 1, 2 and 3 that, as the average time spent in sedentary activities increases from 24% in Year 1 to 40% in Year 3, reaching up to 50 hours per week in Years 4 and 5, the probability of back pain/disorders increases to 57% and 58%. DISCUSSION In correspondence with the

Many subjective factors can affect energy cost (V’O2max, maximal strength and flexibility) and mechanical work (stride frequency) of walking. To our knowledge, no studies have been conducted to investigate if the level of daily physical activity (PAL) can affect external mechanical work (WEXT) and net energy cost (CW). The aim of the study was to analyse the relation between CW and WEXT with PAL. 20 healthy adults (age, 27,2±4 yr; BMI, 22,4±1,9 kg/m2; RMR 1758,3±261,3 kJ/d; V’O2max, 42±6,2 mlO2/kg/min) were recruited in the study and were classified as inactive (INACT) and active (ACT) according to the amount of daily moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Net CW was analysed with indirect calorimetry (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy) and simultaneously, a kinematic analysis was performed with an optoelectronic system (SMART-E, BTS, Italy) to calculate WEXT during 3 bouts of treadmill walking of 10 min each at 3,5/4,5/5,5 km/h. To assess PAL, subjects wore an activity monitor (Actiheart, CamNtech, UK) for a whole week, inferring time spent in sedentary (SED, <1,5 METs), or moderate to vigorous (MVPA, >3 METs) physical activity. When compared with INACT, ACT have a significantly higher amount of MVPA (P<0,0001). No group differences were observed for SED behaviour. ACT have higher values of both CW and WEXT than INACT (CW: 3,5 km/h ACT 2,56±0,31, INACT 2,5±0,37; 4,5 km/h ACT 2,57±0,38, INACT 2,53±0,42; 5,5 km/h ACT 2,93±0,54, INACT 2,87±0,47 J/kg/m; WEXT: 3,5 km/h ACT 0,3±0,08, INACT 0,26±0,04; 4,5 km/h ACT 0,27±0,07, INACT 0,24±0,05; 5,5 km/h ACT 0,25±0,07, INACT 0,22±0,05 J/kg/m). Significant correlations between CW or WEXT calculated at the different speeds were found(P<0,01). No significant associations were found between MVPA or SED with neither CW nor WEXT. Our data indicate that ACT and INACT adults differ for MVPA but not for SED patterns. None of these factors seem to influence CW and WEXT of treadmill walking of light intensity in a healthy adult population.

Aim. Lack of physical activity is

INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to determine the impact of back pain in primary school children and identify any predisposing risk factors. We aimed to address two fundamental questions: 1) What percentage of primary school students suffer for back pain? 2) What are the main risk factors of back pain in this population? METHODS A group of 804 children aged from 5 to 11 years was tested. The sampling involved both sexes and was based on random sampling. Data were collected through a survey sent to the pupil’s parents and involved a questionnaire, SDQ-Ita (R. Goodman, 1997) concerning anthropometric data, ability/ difficulties (psychological /psychosocial) and lifestyle. Specific questions on pain and back diseases were asked only to those parents whose children had already encountered this problem. Data are expressed as Average and Standard Deviation, where appropriate. Graph data are expressed as a percentage. Descriptive Statistics was performed with the Microsoft Office Excel 2003 (Professional Edition). Inferential Statistics was performed with the statistical program Statview 5.0. implementing the Binary Logistic Multiple Regression, also calculating the Odds Ratio and Confidence Interval. RESULTS Risk factors considered were: female sex, the index of weekly lack of movement and family history of back pain. The incidence of back pain in the sample analyzed was 18%. The incidence of back problems steadily increased from the Year 1 (7.4%) to Year 5 (27.5%) of primary school. The difference between the sexes was 5.3%, (20.2% in girls versus 14.9% in males). Pathological familiarity with at least one family member presenting back pain, was found in 48% of sample examined. The data show for Years 1, 2 and 3 that, as the average time spent in sedentary activities increases from 24% in Year 1 to 40% in Year 3, reaching up to 50 hours per week in Years 4 and 5, the probability of back pain/disorders increases to 57% and 58%. DISCUSSION In correspondence with the

La evidenziata diminuzione nella pratica di giochi di movimento da cortile costituisce una perdita significativa di abitudini motorie che influenza lo stile di vita sedentario dei bambini di oggi. Numerosi studi attestano in loro una diminuzione progressiva nelle abilità motorie dovuta a fattori sia coordinativi che condizionali. Inoltre, il tempo dedicato all’attività ludico-motoria è diminuito e nei momenti di tempo libero stanno aumentando i giochi sedentari a danno di quelli motori. Le cause di questa situazione sono differenti e riteniamo essere : 1) l’avvento dei giochi elettronici, ormai intriganti ed interessanti nel bambino più che i giochi di movimento oltre ad essere meno faticosi; 2) la carenza di spazi sicuri e protetti all’aperto in quanto i vecchi “ cortili” oggi fungono da parcheggio di autovetture. I bambini pertanto vengono indirizzati verso i giochi statici da camera in quanto gli spazi aperti risultano pericolosi; 3) nel sistema scolastico i bambini non sono educati adeguatamente alle attività di movimento e si ritiene che i giochi si debbano utilizzare solo per i momenti di ricreazione.

The aim of this study was to compare different measurement techniques (indirect calorimetry, IC; heart rate monitoring, HR; Actiheart, AH, an activity monitoring system; rates of perceived exertion, RPE) to estimate physical activity intensity (PAI) during water based exercises (WE). Twelve young active women performed five different WE at three different movement frequencies (15 trials) in an indoor swimming pool (Raffaelli et al., 2010). During the trials the subjects were monitored with: a portable metabolic system (K4b2, Cosmed, I), a heart rate monitor (T31, Polar, Fi), the Actiheart (Cambridge Neurotechnology, UK) and the Borg Scale. Each trial lasted 10 min, with a 5 min rest in between; the data recorded at steady state (5 - 9th min) were averaged to obtain mean VO2, HR and AH values. Finally, VO2 was also estimated from HR data using three different HR/VO2 regression equation models (ACSM, 1998; Brown al., 1998; Raffaelli et al., 2010). The values obtained by means of AH, HR and RPE were all significantly related with data of IC (p<0.001); the highest correlations were found between the measured values of VO2 (IC) and the values of VO2 estimated from the three HR/VO2 equations (r>0.8 in all cases). The ANOVA test showed a non significant difference between all predicted and measured VO2 values. When the Bland&Altman analysis was considered, the Actiheart values showed the larger explained variances (95% CI) and the larger standard errors. In conclusion, even if all the analyzed methods are able to detect changes of intensity during WE and are significantly correlated with IC data, the more accurate way to estimate PAI during WE is still based on HR measurements. REFERENCES ACSM (1998) Med Sci Sports Exerc 30: 975-991 Brown al. (1998) Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 6: 248-255 Raffaelli et al. (2010) Eur J Appl Physiol DOI: 10.1007/s00421-010 1419-5

Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) causes an increase in caloric burn during the recovery period, to be considered in relation to energy balance and weight loss. It is not clear whether various modes of aerobic exercise affect EPOC differently. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of moderate intensity of cycling (CE), treadmill (TE) and arm crank (AE) exercises on EPOC. 6 young moderately active female (age, 24,2±0,8 yr; BMI, 21,5±2,4 kg/m2; RMR, 1288±78,2 kcal/day) participated in the study over a 2-week period. In the first week, subjects filled a Baecke questionnaire of habitual physical activity, undergone a resting metabolic rate (RMR) measurement and a V O2peak at each ergometer was assessed. In the second week, subjects completed one bout of 30 min at 60% of V O2peak (respectively at CE, TE and AE, separated by 48 hours of rest). Before (30 min pre) and after (2 hours post) each exercise bout a RMR measurement was carried out in a sitting position (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy). A repeated measures Anova was used to analyse data. V O2 during exercise and total energy expenditure were significantly higher for TE and CE when compared with AE (TE 1,5±0,2 l/min, 356,8±35 kcal; CE 1,4±0,2 l/min, 344,2±38,6 kcal; AE 0,7±0,1 l/min, 242,3±23,7; p<0,05). QR was significantly lower for TE when compared with CE and AE both during exercise and recovery (exercise: TE 0,81±0,04; CE 0,84±0,07; AE 0,84±0,03; p<0,05). EPOC magnitude was not significantly different for the three exercises (TE 2,9±1,9 l; CE 3,3±2,5 l; AE 1,8±1 l; ns) and accounted between 7% and 11% of total energy expenditure. This study shows that TE can be considered the best weight loss exercise when compared with CE and AE.

INTRODUCTION In Italy popular courtyard games have always been a favourite pastime for all children(1). Up to 20 years ago they practise these games spontaneously and joyfully in the playgrounds in afternoon leisure time. The most popular and well-known of these games (although they may be called different names around Italy) are “Nascondino” (Hide and Seek), “ Prendersi” (Touch me),“Palla prigioniera” (ball in the jail), “Mosca cieca”(blind fly),“Giro tondo”(Turn in round), “Campana”(Bell), “ Cavallina”(Small horse). The characteristics of these forms of play are: adaptable and non-structured environments, the presence of flexible and negotiable rules and the adaptability to the numbers of participants. These games have always been considered important because they are spontaneous and enjoyable and encourage the morphological, motor, intellectual and social growth of the children. The study shows how these games, which have been handed down from grandparent to parent to grandchild, have been slowly decreasing or even disappearing over the last two generations. METHODS In 2008 a questionnaire was carried out on the parents of 398 children from 3 to 5 years living in a country town in the North of Italy (192 males and 196 females). The questionnaire included not only questions regarding their children (Children group = G3) but also two additional sections of questions about themselves (Parents group = G2) and the children’s grandparents (Grandparents group= G1). The questionnaires, in all age groups, included the type of games that were most played (F1), the analysis of the places where they were played (F2), the number of players (F3) and the amount of leisure time devoted to the games (F4). The data was collected using the Likert scale and analysed using the statistical method SPSS comparing the 3 groups (G1, G2 e G3) and the four factors quoted above (F1, F2, F3 and F4). RESULTS The results of the questionnaire show clearly that the games played by children today

INTRODUCTION Development of fundamental motor skills (FMS) in childhood is considered an important goal during the growing-up process. Till a few years ago it was guaranteed and performed throught a natural and active life style and today we can see a motor impoverishment related to the principal gross motor abilities . The advent of electronic static games, the diminution of movement opportunities for our children and the progressive reduction of free-time are the causes of this situation. Today the scholastic motor activities (practiced for less than two hours a week) are not enough to guarantee quantity and quality of motor development in childhood. The study shows how since the late 1985s one can see an impoverishment in all the considered FMS and in particular in running, high and long Jumping and power throwing. METHODS In the year 1985 a test battery was submitted to 1233 (620 boys 613 girls) italian students aged 9 and 10 (GR1). The same test battery was proposed to 985 (472 boys 513 girls) same aged students in 1996 ( GR2) and 988 (502 boys 486 girls) students in 2008 (GR3).The data have been collected through the scholastic system by submitting tests during physical education (PE) lessons after a 20 minutes warm-up. Test battery: Speed run (mt.40), Endurance run(mt.600), Long Jump , High jump, precision throw ( Basket drought) and power throw (two hand throwing of a 1 Kg medical ball), twine-skip and pole-climb. RESULTS In the two periods 1985-1996 (P1) and 1996-2008 (P2) we have been noticed differences in the weight, in the height and in the BMI. Today boys and girls are taller and heavier. The increase of these two dimensions in the children morphology is predominant for the increase in body mass, therefore we can also notice a marked increase in BMI. All data has been compared with NCHS Growth Charts (NCHS 2000). In all tests we noticed a loss of ability in every group (9,10 ages boys and 9,10 ages girls). Gaps are more evident in endurance and power a

Weight loss can be achieved by increasing energy expenditure (EE). EE depends on the calories expended during the bout of exercise as well as on the Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC). The impact of intensity and duration of exercise on EPOC has already been examined, but the impact of daily living activities has not yet been considered. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of moderate intensity cycling exercise (CE) and moderate to vigorous intensity daily living activities (DLA) on EPOC. METHODS 6 young moderately active female (age, 24,2±0,8 yr; BMI, 21,5±2,4 kg/m2; RMR, 1288±78,2 kcal/day; V O2peak, 41±7,2 ml/kg/min) participated in the study over a 2-week period. After having filled a Baecke questionnaire of habitual physical activity and having undergone a resting metabolic rate (RMR) measurement and an incremental test to exhaustion (V O2peak), subjects completed two bouts of 30 min of exercise separated by 48 hours of rest: a moderate intensity CE (60% of V O2peak) and moderate to vigorous DLA (3-6 METs). Before (30 min pre) and after (2 hours post) each exercise bout a RMR measurement was carried out in a sitting position (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy). A One-way ANOVA was used to analyse data and significance was accepted at p<0,05. RESULTS V O2 was significantly higher for CE during exercise when compared with DLA (CE 1,4±0,2 l/min; DLA 1,1±0,2 l/min; p<0,05). O2 consumed during and after CE was higher than DLA (not significantly) even when normalized to the pre-exercise levels (CE: O2tot 71,2±8,1 l; O2net 37,5±11,2 l; DLA: O2tot 64,1±9 l; O2net 29,57±10,9 l; ns). EPOC magnitude was also higher for CE than DLA, even not significantly (CE 3,3±2,5 l; DLA 2,6±1,4 l; ns). EPOC accounted for 9,5% and 9,2% of Total Energy Expenditure for CE and DLA respectively. There were no significant differences between groups for heart rate, respiratory exchange ratio, EE and energy source, although DLA exercise allowed a greater fat utilizati

INTRODUCTION : Among the most common gross-motor abilities running, jumping and throwing have been considered some of the most important fundamental motor skills (FMS).Their development, 30 years ago,was guaranteed and performed throught a natural and active life style.Today the scholastic sport activitie and the structured extra scholastic sport activities are not enough to guarantee quantity and quality of motor development of our preadolescents. The study shows how since the late 1970s one can see a progressive motor impoverishment related to the principal gross-motor abilities(1),caused by the diminution of movement opportunities for our children(2)and by the advent of computers,cellular telephones and electronic static games. METHODS :In the year 1976 a test battery was proposed to 1000 students.The same test battery was proposed to 500 students in 2007.The data have been collected through the scholastic system by submitting tests during PE lessons after a 20 minutes warm-up.Test battery: Speed run (boys mt.80; girls mt.60), Endurance run(mt.1000), Long Jump, High jump, precision throw (Basket drought) and strength throw (one hand throwing of a little ball), twine-skip test and pole-climb test. RESULTS :After 30 years significant differences have been noticed in the weight, in the height and in the Body Mass Index. Today boys and girls are taller and heavier and we can also notice a marked increase in BMI.All data have been compared with NCHS Growth Charts(3). In all tests we noticed a loss of ability. These differencies are more evident in endurance and power abilities than in precision tasks. Regarding the gender, these difference are more evident in the girls (increase average of failure 18,59 %) than the in boys (increase average of failure 15,31 %). Differences among the participants according to their ages and birth date were analysed with Pearson’s Chi-square test and statistical significance have been confirmed by the O.R.(odds ratio) values. DISCUSSION

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 20 physical education lessons taught by qualified physical education teaching assistants in improving physical fitness qualities. A second aim was to estimate the feasibility of a validated [1, 2], functional, and easily administered test battery for measuring children’s physical fitness. Methods: 40,360 children, 20,758 boys and 19,602 girls (Boys: age, 8.7 ± 1.5 years; height, 131.6 ± 10.3 cm; weight, 30.5 ± 8.4 kg; Girls: age, 8.7 ± 1.5 years; height, 130.4 ± 10.8 cm; weight, 29.6 ± 8.1 kg), from 5 to 12 years old, were involved in the study. 20 9 60 min physical education lessons, to be delivered once a week between November 2015 and May 2016, were conducted by a qualified physical education teaching assistant. Anthropometric measures (BMI z-score), cardiorespiratory fitness (6 min walk test_6MWT), musculoskeletal fitness (standing broad jump_SBJ) and motor fitness (4x10 m shuttle run test_SRT) were evaluated at baseline and after 6 months. Results: Overall, the children in each age group were able to perform all of the test items, indicating the suitability of the test battery for children as young as 5 years of age. After 6 months girls slightly decreased BMI z-score (D = -0.0034, p = 0.1054), while boys significantly increased BMI z-score (D = 0.367, p\0.0001). Mean values indicate that all parameters were significantly modified in both groups (6MWT, D = 24 m, p\0.0001; SBJ, D = 5 cm, p\0.0001; SRT, D = -0.6 s, p\0.0001) with respect to baseline data, boys achieving higher improvement in the SRT (p = 0.0141) when compared to their counterparts. Conclusions: The proposed school-based program showed effectiveness and feasibility. Our results suggest that childhood is a possible specific time window for physical fitness enhancement. The differences observed by gender highlight the need to use different strategies to increase the involvement of all the participants. References Artero EG (2011) Int J

Few studies have examined the impact of various intensities of exercise on physiological parameters during weight loss program. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the short-term and long-term results of an integrated weight-loss program (BWR) on selected physiological parameters considering moderate (MI) or vigorous (HI) physical activity (PA), and the maintenance in the term of their positive effects. METHODS 24 young severely obese subjects (age, 26,38±4,72 yr; BMI, 42,62±5,28 kg/m2), divided into 2 homogeneous groups, followed a 3 weeks BWR composed by: an energy intake reduction, psychological and nutritional counselling and a customized PA program (5 training sessions/week). PA program intensity of both groups ranged between 50 and 70% of VO2max for cardiovascular exercises and between 40 and 70% of 1RM for strength exercises. Volume was the same for both groups: 30 min for cardiovascular exercises and 1x10 for strength exercises. Before (pre) and after (post) the intervention period and one year later (fu) a sub-maximal indirect test to estimate VO2max and a maximal indirect test to calculate 1RM were carried out. RESULTS VO2max significantly increased for both groups (p<0,05) after BWR; further increase occurred for both groups after 1 year, p=ns (VO2max: MI, pre 22,7±7,2 post 25,5±6,1 fu 27,3±7,6 ml/kg/min; HI, pre 25,6±8,8 post 28,4±10,4 fu 30,4±10,8 ml/kg/min). At short-term 1RM significantly increased for both groups (∆%, Leg press MI +37.1, HI +44.7; Chest press MI +39.6, HI +34.3; Vertical traction MI +31.9, HI +41; p<0,001), followed by a decrease after one year (∆%, Leg press MI -6.8, HI -23.6; Chest press MI -6.6, HI -19.6; Vertical traction MI -9.6, HI -12.6), which resulted to be statistically significant only for HI (p<0,01). No significant differences were detected between groups. CONCLUSION This study shows that the intensity of exercise (MI or HI) doesn t affect the magnitude of change in cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strengt

Introduction Whole body vibrations (WBV) have been studied as an alternative exercise intervention for enhancing muscle strength and power. Some authors have investigated their influence on the neuromuscular and neuroendocrine system1. Despite the encouraging findings on untrained individuals, it is still not clear whether WBV training may be beneficial for elite athletes. The aim of this work is to compare the effectiveness of similar training programmes, consisting of WBV, traditional resistance exercise with weights or their combination. Methods 18 healthy competitive female athletes (23.84.6 y; 1.660.05 m; 58.87.8 kg) were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups (V, B and VB). They carried out an 8-weeks periodised conditioning programme, 2 cycles of 3 weeks with 2 training session each, followed by a week of tapering. During training sessions, subjects performed 6 sets of 6 repetitions of dynamic squat: on a vibrating platform (Nemes LX-B/E, SAIR, Italy) (V); with a weight loaded barbell (B); with a weight loaded barbell on a vibrating platform (VB). Vibration frequency was initially set at 25 Hz and was increased of 5 Hz every 2 weeks for both V and VB. Barbell loads were set at 60% and 30% of subject s body mass (BM) for B and VB, respectively, and was increased of about 3% (for VB) and 6% BM (for B) every 2 weeks. Countermovement jump and isometric force tests were carried out before and after the training period. Jumping height and power were estimated by Optojump system (Microgate, Italy). Isometric force was measured by force platforms (Twin Plates, Globus, Italy). They were fixed onto the footplate of a leg press, whose seat was locked so that the subject s knees maintained a 90 deg flexion angle. Proper recovery intervals were respected to avoid fatigue. Following a normality test, non-parametric within groups tests (Wilcoxon) were applied (=0.05). Results Jumping height (mean over 3 trials) and jumping height and power (mean over 15 s of continuous

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Accurate assessment of the total amount of physical activity (PA) or the energy expenditure (EE) in free living condition is a big challenge. A priority has been placed on the study of valid and reliable measures for all levels of PA. New technologies are available for objectively measuring PA and inferring EE: the Actiheart -AH-(Cambridge Neurotechnology, UK) and the SenseWear Pro2 ArmbandTM -SWA-(BodyMedia, USA) are an example of these new devices. PURPOSE The purpose of the present study was to examine the validity of these two new devices during light (<3 METS) to moderate (3-6 METS) and vigorous (>6 METS) intensity daily living activities in laboratory and feld settings. METHODS: 8 physically active women volunteered to participate in the study and performed in two separate days different activities: resting, occupation, housework, conditioning and recreation. Oxygen consumption was measured continuously throughout the routine by indirect calorimetry -IC- (K4b2, Cosmed, Italy) and participants wore the Actiheart on the chest and the Armband on the right arm for simultaneous estimation of EE (METS). RESULTS The combined AH model (Branched model: activity counts+HR) had the strongest relationship with PAEE (r=0785, p<0001) compared with those from the single-measure models (r=.748 and .719, p<0001 for the activity model and the HR model respectively), so that we only used this equation model to compare data with SWA and IC. The two analyzed methods were highly correlated with IC (AH r=.785 and SWA r=.795, p<0001) even if PAEE expressed in METS resulted significantly different for both devices (p<0.001 for AH and p<0.001 for SWA). The positively correlated errors with measured PAEE in the plots of both AH and SWA models indicate a systematic error in these equations (mean difference between methods= AH 1.52±2.38, SWA -0.11±2.48; 95% limits of agreement= AH -3.24 to 6.28, SWA -5.07 to 4.85). On the contrary the explained variances from the AH w