Search

Your search keyword '"Chtourou, H."' showing total 48 results
Start Over Author "Chtourou, H."
48 results on '"Chtourou, H."'

6. Training During the COVID-19 Lockdown: Knowledge, Beliefs, and Practices of 12,526 Athletes from 142 Countries and Six Continents

Author

Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Palacios Cartagena, RP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Donmez, G, Driss, T, Duque, JDP, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlikova, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hebert-Losier, K, Munoz Helu, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, van Rensburg, DCJ, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Hoang, MTN, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Perez-Gomez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, O, Ben Saad, H, Chamari, K, Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Palacios Cartagena, RP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Donmez, G, Driss, T, Duque, JDP, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlikova, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hebert-Losier, K, Munoz Helu, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, van Rensburg, DCJ, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Hoang, MTN, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Perez-Gomez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, O, Ben Saad, H, and Chamari, K

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to explore the training-related knowledge, beliefs, and practices of athletes and the influence of lockdowns in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). METHODS: Athletes (n = 12,526, comprising 13% world class, 21% international, 36% national, 24% state, and 6% recreational) completed an online survey that was available from 17 May to 5 July 2020 and explored their training behaviors (training knowledge, beliefs/attitudes, and practices), including specific questions on their training intensity, frequency, and session duration before and during lockdown (March-June 2020). RESULTS: Overall, 85% of athletes wanted to "maintain training," and 79% disagreed with the statement that it is "okay to not train during lockdown," with a greater prevalence for both in higher-level athletes. In total, 60% of athletes considered "coaching by correspondence (remote coaching)" to be sufficient (highest amongst world-class athletes). During lockdown, < 40% were able to maintain sport-specific training (e.g., long endurance [39%], interval training [35%], weightlifting [33%], plyometric exercise [30%]) at pre-lockdown levels (higher among world-class, international, and national athletes), with most (83%) training for "general fitness and health maintenance" during lockdown. Athletes trained alone (80%) and focused on bodyweight (65%) and cardiovascular (59%) exercise/training during lockdown. Compared with before lockdown, most athletes reported reduced training frequency (from between five and seven sessions per week to four or fewer), shorter training sessions (from ≥ 60 to < 60 min), and lower sport-specific intensity (~ 38% reduction), irrespective of athlete classification. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19-related lockdowns saw marked reductions in athletic training specificity, intensity, frequency, and duration, with notable within-sample differences (by athlete clas

Published
2022

7. Training During the COVID-19 Lockdown: Knowledge, Beliefs, and Practices of 12,526 Athletes from 142 Countries and Six Continents (vol 52, pg 933, 2021)

Author

Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Cartagena, RPP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Donmez, G, Driss, T, Pena Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlikova, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hebert-Losier, K, Munoz Helu, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Perez-Gomez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, O, Ben Saad, H, Chamari, K, Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Cartagena, RPP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Donmez, G, Driss, T, Pena Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlikova, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hebert-Losier, K, Munoz Helu, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Perez-Gomez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, O, Ben Saad, H, and Chamari, K

Published
2022

8. Ramadan intermittent fasting induced poorer training practices during the COVID-19 lockdown: A global cross-sectional study with 5529 athletes from 110 countries

Author

Washif, JA, Pyne, DB, Sandbakk, O, Trabelsi, K, Aziz, AR, Beaven, CM, Krug, I, Mujika, I, Ammar, A, Chaouachi, A, Moussa-Chamari, I, Aloui, A, Chtourou, H, Farooq, A, Haddad, M, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Tabben, M, Wong, DP, Zerguini, Y, DeLang, MD, Taylor, L, Ben Saad, H, Chamari, K, Washif, JA, Pyne, DB, Sandbakk, O, Trabelsi, K, Aziz, AR, Beaven, CM, Krug, I, Mujika, I, Ammar, A, Chaouachi, A, Moussa-Chamari, I, Aloui, A, Chtourou, H, Farooq, A, Haddad, M, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Tabben, M, Wong, DP, Zerguini, Y, DeLang, MD, Taylor, L, Ben Saad, H, and Chamari, K

Abstract

Ramadan intermittent fasting during the COVID-19 lockdown (RIFL) may present unique demands. We investigated training practices (i.e., training load and training times) of athletes, using pre-defined survey criteria/questions, during the 'first' COVID-19 lockdown, comparing RIFL to lockdown-alone (LD) in Muslim athletes. Specifically, a within-subject, survey-based study saw athletes (n = 5,529; from 110 countries/territories) training practices (comparing RIFL to LD) explored by comparative variables of: sex; age; continent; athlete classification (e.g., world-class); sport classification (e.g., endurance); athlete status (e.g., professional); and level of training knowledge and beliefs/attitudes (ranked as: good/moderate/poor). During RIFL (compared to LD), athlete perceptions (ranges presented given variety of comparative variables) of their training load decreased (46-62%), were maintained (31-48%) or increased (2-13%). Decreases (≥ 5%, p < 0.05) affected more athletes aged 30-39 years than those 18-29 years (60 vs 55%); more national than international athletes (59 vs 51%); more team sports than precision sports (59 vs 46%); more North American than European athletes (62 vs 53%); more semi-professional than professional athletes (60 vs 54%); more athletes who rated their beliefs/attitudes 'good' compared to 'poor' and 'moderate' (61 vs 54 and 53%, respectively); and more athletes with 'moderate' than 'poor' knowledge (58 vs 53%). During RIFL, athletes had different strategies for training times, with 13-29% training twice a day (i.e., afternoon and night), 12-26% at night only, and 18-36% in the afternoon only, with ranges depending on the comparative variables. Training loads and activities were altered negatively during RIFL compared to LD. It would be prudent for decision-makers responsible for RIFL athletes to develop programs to support athletes during such challenges.

Published
2022

9. COVID-19 Lockdown: A Global Study Investigating the Effect of Athletes' Sport Classification and Sex on Training Practices.

Author

Washif, JA, Sandbakk, Ø, Seiler, S, Haugen, T, Farooq, A, Quarrie, K, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Krug, I, Verhagen, E, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Pérez-Gómez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Rabbani, A, Pudasaini, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Urhausen, A, Trabelsi, K, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Ben Saad, H, Pyne, DB, Taylor, L, Cortis, C, Chamari, K, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Palacios Cartagena, RP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Peña Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlíková, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Hébert-Losier, K, Muñoz Helú, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Washif, JA, Sandbakk, Ø, Seiler, S, Haugen, T, Farooq, A, Quarrie, K, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Krug, I, Verhagen, E, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Pérez-Gómez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Rabbani, A, Pudasaini, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Urhausen, A, Trabelsi, K, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Ben Saad, H, Pyne, DB, Taylor, L, Cortis, C, Chamari, K, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Palacios Cartagena, RP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Peña Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlíková, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Hébert-Losier, K, Muñoz Helú, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, and Moussa-Chamari, I

Abstract

PURPOSE: To investigate differences in athletes' knowledge, beliefs, and training practices during COVID-19 lockdowns with reference to sport classification and sex. This work extends an initial descriptive evaluation focusing on athlete classification. METHODS: Athletes (12,526; 66% male; 142 countries) completed an online survey (May-July 2020) assessing knowledge, beliefs, and practices toward training. Sports were classified as team sports (45%), endurance (20%), power/technical (10%), combat (9%), aquatic (6%), recreational (4%), racquet (3%), precision (2%), parasports (1%), and others (1%). Further analysis by sex was performed. RESULTS: During lockdown, athletes practiced body-weight-based exercises routinely (67% females and 64% males), ranging from 50% (precision) to 78% (parasports). More sport-specific technical skills were performed in combat, parasports, and precision (∼50%) than other sports (∼35%). Most athletes (range: 50% [parasports] to 75% [endurance]) performed cardiorespiratory training (trivial sex differences). Compared to prelockdown, perceived training intensity was reduced by 29% to 41%, depending on sport (largest decline: ∼38% in team sports, unaffected by sex). Some athletes (range: 7%-49%) maintained their training intensity for strength, endurance, speed, plyometric, change-of-direction, and technical training. Athletes who previously trained ≥5 sessions per week reduced their volume (range: 18%-28%) during lockdown. The proportion of athletes (81%) training ≥60 min/session reduced by 31% to 43% during lockdown. Males and females had comparable moderate levels of training knowledge (56% vs 58%) and beliefs/attitudes (54% vs 56%). CONCLUSIONS: Changes in athletes' training practices were sport-specific, with few or no sex differences. Team-based sports were generally more susceptible to changes than individual sports. Policy makers should provide athletes with specific training arrangements and educational resources to facilitate remot

Published
2022

10. Lockdown Duration and Training Intensity Affect Sleep Behavior in an International Sample of 1,454 Elite Athletes.

Author

Romdhani, M, Fullagar, HHK, Vitale, JA, Nédélec, M, Rae, DE, Ammar, A, Chtourou, H, Al Horani, RA, Ben Saad, H, Bragazzi, NL, Dönmez, G, Dergaa, I, Driss, T, Farooq, A, Hammouda, O, Harroum, N, Hassanmirzaei, B, Khalladi, K, Khemila, S, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Moussa-Chamari, I, Mujika, I, Muñoz Helú, H, Norouzi Fashkhami, A, Paineiras-Domingos, LL, Khaneghah, MR, Saita, Y, Souissi, N, Trabelsi, K, Washif, JA, Weber, J, Zmijewski, P, Taylor, L, Garbarino, S, Chamari, K, Romdhani, M, Fullagar, HHK, Vitale, JA, Nédélec, M, Rae, DE, Ammar, A, Chtourou, H, Al Horani, RA, Ben Saad, H, Bragazzi, NL, Dönmez, G, Dergaa, I, Driss, T, Farooq, A, Hammouda, O, Harroum, N, Hassanmirzaei, B, Khalladi, K, Khemila, S, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Moussa-Chamari, I, Mujika, I, Muñoz Helú, H, Norouzi Fashkhami, A, Paineiras-Domingos, LL, Khaneghah, MR, Saita, Y, Souissi, N, Trabelsi, K, Washif, JA, Weber, J, Zmijewski, P, Taylor, L, Garbarino, S, and Chamari, K

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effect of 1) lockdown duration and 2) training intensity on sleep quality and insomnia symptoms in elite athletes. Methods: 1,454 elite athletes (24.1 ± 6.7 years; 42% female; 41% individual sports) from 40 countries answered a retrospective, cross-sectional, web-based questionnaire relating to their behavioral habits pre- and during- COVID-19 lockdown, including: 1) Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI); 2) Insomnia severity index (ISI); bespoke questions about 3) napping; and 4) training behaviors. The association between dependent (PSQI and ISI) and independent variables (sleep, napping and training behaviors) was determined with multiple regression and is reported as semi-partial correlation coefficient squared (in percentage). Results: 15% of the sample spent < 1 month, 27% spent 1-2 months and 58% spent > 2 months in lockdown. 29% self-reported maintaining the same training intensity during-lockdown whilst 71% reduced training intensity. PSQI (4.1 ± 2.4 to 5.8 ± 3.1; mean difference (MD): 1.7; 95% confidence interval of the difference (95% CI): 1.6-1.9) and ISI (5.1 ± 4.7 to 7.7 ± 6.4; MD: 2.6; 95% CI: 2.3-2.9) scores were higher during-compared to pre-lockdown, associated (all p < 0.001) with longer sleep onset latency (PSQI: 28%; ISI: 23%), later bedtime (PSQI: 13%; ISI: 14%) and later preferred time of day to train (PSQI: 9%; ISI: 5%) during-lockdown. Those who reduced training intensity during-lockdown showed higher PSQI (p < 0.001; MD: 1.25; 95% CI: 0.87-1.63) and ISI (p < 0.001; MD: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.72-3.27) scores compared to those who maintained training intensity. Although PSQI score was not affected by the lockdown duration, ISI score was higher in athletes who spent > 2 months confined compared to those who spent < 1 month (p < 0.001; MD: 1.28; 95% CI: 0.26-2.3). Conclusion: Reducing training intensity during the COVID-19-induced lockdown was associated with lower sleep quality and higher insomnia severity in elite athlet

Published
2022

14. COVID-19 Lockdowns: A Worldwide Survey of Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Quality in 3911 Athletes from 49 Countries, with Data-Driven Recommendations.

Author

Romdhani, M, Rae, DE, Nédélec, M, Ammar, A, Chtourou, H, Al Horani, R, Ben Saad, H, Bragazzi, N, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Fullagar, HHK, Farooq, A, Garbarino, S, Hammouda, O, Hassanmirzaei, B, Khalladi, K, Khemila, S, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Moussa-Chamari, I, Mujika, I, Muñoz Helú, H, Norouzi Fashkhami, A, Paineiras-Domingos, LL, Rahbari Khaneghah, M, Saita, Y, Trabelsi, K, Vitale, JA, Washif, JA, Weber, J, Souissi, N, Taylor, L, Chamari, K, Romdhani, M, Rae, DE, Nédélec, M, Ammar, A, Chtourou, H, Al Horani, R, Ben Saad, H, Bragazzi, N, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Fullagar, HHK, Farooq, A, Garbarino, S, Hammouda, O, Hassanmirzaei, B, Khalladi, K, Khemila, S, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Moussa-Chamari, I, Mujika, I, Muñoz Helú, H, Norouzi Fashkhami, A, Paineiras-Domingos, LL, Rahbari Khaneghah, M, Saita, Y, Trabelsi, K, Vitale, JA, Washif, JA, Weber, J, Souissi, N, Taylor, L, and Chamari, K

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: In a convenience sample of athletes, we conducted a survey of COVID-19-mediated lockdown (termed 'lockdown' from this point forward) effects on: (i) circadian rhythms; (ii) sleep; (iii) eating; and (iv) training behaviors. METHODS: In total, 3911 athletes [mean age: 25.1 (range 18-61) years, 1764 female (45%), 2427 team-sport (63%) and 1442 elite (37%) athletes] from 49 countries completed a multilingual cross-sectional survey including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Insomnia Severity Index questionnaires, alongside bespoke questions about napping, training, and nutrition behaviors. RESULTS: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (4.3 ± 2.4 to 5.8 ± 3.1) and Insomnia Severity Index (4.8 ± 4.7 to 7.2 ± 6.4) scores increased from pre- to during lockdown (p < 0.001). Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was predominantly influenced by sleep-onset latency (p < 0.001; + 29.8%), sleep efficiency (p < 0.001; - 21.1%), and total sleep time (p < 0.001; - 20.1%), whilst Insomnia Severity Index was affected by sleep-onset latency (p < 0.001; + 21.4%), bedtime (p < 0.001; + 9.4%), and eating after midnight (p < 0.001; + 9.1%). During lockdown, athletes reported fewer training sessions per week (- 29.1%; d = 0.99). Athletes went to bed (+ 75 min; 5.4%; d = 1.14) and woke up (+ 150 min; 34.5%; d = 1.71) later during lockdown with an increased total sleep time (+ 48 min; 10.6%; d = 0.83). Lockdown-mediated circadian disruption had more deleterious effects on the sleep quality of individual-sport athletes compared with team-sport athletes (p < 0.001; d = 0.41), elite compared with non-elite athletes (p = 0.028; d = 0.44) and older compared with younger (p = 0.008; d = 0.46) athletes. CONCLUSIONS: These lockdown-induced behavioral changes reduced sleep quality and increased insomnia in athletes. Data-driven and evidence-based recommendations to counter these include, but are not limited to: (i) early outdoor training; (ii) regular meal scheduling (whilst avoiding meals prior to

Published
2021

15. Training During the COVID-19 Lockdown: Knowledge, Beliefs, and Practices of 12,526 Athletes from 142 Countries and Six Continents.

Author

Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Cartagena, RPP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Peña Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlíková, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hébert-Losier, K, Muñoz Helú, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Pérez-Gómez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, Ø, Ben Saad, H, Chamari, K, Washif, JA, Farooq, A, Krug, I, Pyne, DB, Verhagen, E, Taylor, L, Wong, DP, Mujika, I, Cortis, C, Haddad, M, Ahmadian, O, Al Jufaili, M, Al-Horani, RA, Al-Mohannadi, AS, Aloui, A, Ammar, A, Arifi, F, Aziz, AR, Batuev, M, Beaven, CM, Beneke, R, Bici, A, Bishnoi, P, Bogwasi, L, Bok, D, Boukhris, O, Boullosa, D, Bragazzi, N, Brito, J, Cartagena, RPP, Chaouachi, A, Cheung, SS, Chtourou, H, Cosma, G, Debevec, T, DeLang, MD, Dellal, A, Dönmez, G, Driss, T, Peña Duque, JD, Eirale, C, Elloumi, M, Foster, C, Franchini, E, Fusco, A, Galy, O, Gastin, PB, Gill, N, Girard, O, Gregov, C, Halson, S, Hammouda, O, Hanzlíková, I, Hassanmirzaei, B, Haugen, T, Hébert-Losier, K, Muñoz Helú, H, Herrera-Valenzuela, T, Hettinga, FJ, Holtzhausen, L, Hue, O, Dello Iacono, A, Ihalainen, JK, James, C, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Joseph, S, Kamoun, K, Khaled, M, Khalladi, K, Kim, KJ, Kok, L-Y, MacMillan, L, Mataruna-Dos-Santos, LJ, Matsunaga, R, Memishi, S, Millet, GP, Moussa-Chamari, I, Musa, DI, Nguyen, HMT, Nikolaidis, PT, Owen, A, Padulo, J, Pagaduan, JC, Perera, NP, Pérez-Gómez, J, Pillay, L, Popa, A, Pudasaini, A, Rabbani, A, Rahayu, T, Romdhani, M, Salamh, P, Sarkar, A-S, Schillinger, A, Seiler, S, Setyawati, H, Shrestha, N, Suraya, F, Tabben, M, Trabelsi, K, Urhausen, A, Valtonen, M, Weber, J, Whiteley, R, Zrane, A, Zerguini, Y, Zmijewski, P, Sandbakk, Ø, Ben Saad, H, and Chamari, K

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to explore the training-related knowledge, beliefs, and practices of athletes and the influence of lockdowns in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). METHODS: Athletes (n = 12,526, comprising 13% world class, 21% international, 36% national, 24% state, and 6% recreational) completed an online survey that was available from 17 May to 5 July 2020 and explored their training behaviors (training knowledge, beliefs/attitudes, and practices), including specific questions on their training intensity, frequency, and session duration before and during lockdown (March-June 2020). RESULTS: Overall, 85% of athletes wanted to "maintain training," and 79% disagreed with the statement that it is "okay to not train during lockdown," with a greater prevalence for both in higher-level athletes. In total, 60% of athletes considered "coaching by correspondence (remote coaching)" to be sufficient (highest amongst world-class athletes). During lockdown, < 40% were able to maintain sport-specific training (e.g., long endurance [39%], interval training [35%], weightlifting [33%], plyometric exercise [30%]) at pre-lockdown levels (higher among world-class, international, and national athletes), with most (83%) training for "general fitness and health maintenance" during lockdown. Athletes trained alone (80%) and focused on bodyweight (65%) and cardiovascular (59%) exercise/training during lockdown. Compared with before lockdown, most athletes reported reduced training frequency (from between five and seven sessions per week to four or fewer), shorter training sessions (from ≥ 60 to < 60 min), and lower sport-specific intensity (~ 38% reduction), irrespective of athlete classification. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19-related lockdowns saw marked reductions in athletic training specificity, intensity, frequency, and duration, with notable within-sample differences (by athlete clas

Published
2021

16. Effects of home confinement on mental health and lifestyle behaviours during the COVID-19 outbreak: Insights from the ECLB-COVID19 multicentre study

Author

Ammar, A., Trabelsi, K., Brach, M., Chtourou, H., Boukhris, O., Masmoudi, L., Bouaziz, B., Bentlage, E., How, D., Ahmed, M., Mueller, P., Mueller, N., Hammouda, O., Paineiras-Domingos, L. L., Braakman-Jansen, A., Wrede, C., Bastoni, S., Pernambuco, C. S., Mataruna, L., Taheri, M., Irandoust, K., Khacharem, A., Bragazzi, N. L., Strahler, J., Adrian, J., Andreeva, A., Glenn, J. M., Bott, N. T., Gargouri, F., Chaari, L., Batatia, H., Khoshnami, S. C., Samara, E., Zisi, V., Sankar, P., Ahmed, W. N., Ali, G. M., Abdelkarim, O., Jarraya, M., Abed, K. E., Moalla, W., Romdhani, M., Aloui, A., Souissi, N., van Gemert-Pijnen, L., Riemann, B. L., Riemann, L., Delhey, J., Gomez-Raja, J., Epstein, M., Sanderman, R., Schulz, S., Jerg, A., Al-Horani, R., Mansi, T., Jmail, M., Barbosa, F., Ferreira-Santos, F., Simunic, B., Pisot, R., Pisot, S., Gaggioli, Andrea, Zmijewski, P., Bailey, S. J., Steinacker, J., Chamari, K., Driss, T., Hoekelmann, A., Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598), Ammar, A., Trabelsi, K., Brach, M., Chtourou, H., Boukhris, O., Masmoudi, L., Bouaziz, B., Bentlage, E., How, D., Ahmed, M., Mueller, P., Mueller, N., Hammouda, O., Paineiras-Domingos, L. L., Braakman-Jansen, A., Wrede, C., Bastoni, S., Pernambuco, C. S., Mataruna, L., Taheri, M., Irandoust, K., Khacharem, A., Bragazzi, N. L., Strahler, J., Adrian, J., Andreeva, A., Glenn, J. M., Bott, N. T., Gargouri, F., Chaari, L., Batatia, H., Khoshnami, S. C., Samara, E., Zisi, V., Sankar, P., Ahmed, W. N., Ali, G. M., Abdelkarim, O., Jarraya, M., Abed, K. E., Moalla, W., Romdhani, M., Aloui, A., Souissi, N., van Gemert-Pijnen, L., Riemann, B. L., Riemann, L., Delhey, J., Gomez-Raja, J., Epstein, M., Sanderman, R., Schulz, S., Jerg, A., Al-Horani, R., Mansi, T., Jmail, M., Barbosa, F., Ferreira-Santos, F., Simunic, B., Pisot, R., Pisot, S., Gaggioli, Andrea, Zmijewski, P., Bailey, S. J., Steinacker, J., Chamari, K., Driss, T., Hoekelmann, A., and Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598)

Abstract

Although recognised as effective measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak, social distancing and self-isolation have been suggested to generate a burden throughout the population. To provide scientific data to help identify risk factors for the psychosocial strain during the COVID-19 outbreak, an international cross-disciplinary online survey was circulated in April 2020. This report outlines the mental, emotional and behavioural consequences of COVID-19 home confinement. The ECLB-COVID19 electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists, following a structured review of the literature. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online survey platform and was promoted by thirty-five research organizations from Europe, North Africa, Western Asia and the Americas. Questions were presented in a differential format with questions related to responses “before” and “during” the confinement period. 1047 replies (54% women) from Western Asia (36%), North Africa (40%), Europe (21%) and other continents (3%) were analysed. The COVID-19 home confinement evoked a negative effect on mental wellbeing and emotional status (P < 0.001; 0.43 ≤ d ≤ 0.65) with a greater proportion of individuals experiencing psychosocial and emotional disorders (+10% to +16.5%). These psychosocial tolls were associated with unhealthy lifestyle behaviours with a greater proportion of individuals experiencing (i) physical (+15.2%) and social (+71.2%) inactivity, (ii) poor sleep quality (+12.8%), (iii) unhealthy diet behaviours (+10%), and (iv) unemployment (6%). Conversely, participants demonstrated a greater use (+15%) of technology during the confinement period. These findings elucidate the risk of psychosocial strain during the COVID-19 home confinement period and provide a clear remit for the urgent implementation of technology-based intervention to foster an Active and Healthy Confinement Lifestyle AHCL).

Published
2021

17. Responses of some matrix metalloproteinases activities to an acute session of endurance exercise and electrical stimulation in induced myocardial infarction in Wistar rats.

Author

SAYYAH, M., MALEKIPOOYA, M., KHANSOOZ, M., POURABBASI, M. S., IRANDOUST, K., TAHERI, M., H'MIDA, C., HALOUANI, J., TRABELSI, K., CHTOUROU, H., BRAGAZZI, N. L., and CLARK, C. C. T.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Myocardial infarction is the irreversible cell death of cardiac muscle that takes place after the blood flow is cut off to a specific region of the heart muscle. The molecular angiogenesis process that may follow after the incidence, due to any activity or its intensity, is unknown. The purpose of this research was to examine some of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) responses to an acute course of endurance exercise and electrical stimulation in induced myocardial infarcted Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental case-control study, 40 induced myocardial infarcted Wistar rats (8-week-old, mean weight 130±30 g) were randomly assigned into 4 conditions: endurance exercise, exercise + electrical stimulation, only electrical stimulation, and control group. The infarction was induced 24 hours after the subcutaneous injection of 150 mg/kg of Isoproterenol. The exercise and exercise plus electrical stimulation groups performed a session of endurance exercise on an animal treadmill, at 20 m/min for one hour. The electrical stimulation was delivered by foot shock, set with the intensities of 0.5 mA for 20 minutes. Immediately after the cessation of the treatment protocol, MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9 were measured by the ELISA method. Data analysis was performed by using Two-way ANOVA and significance was set at a = 0.05. RESULTS: One session of endurance exercise or electric stimulation, or their combination, had no significant effect on the level of MMPs. CONCLUSIONS: One session of acute endurance exercise, stimulation, or their combination, elicited no significant effect on the level of MMPs of artificially induced myocardial infarcted Wistar rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2022

18. Effects of COVID-19 home confinement on eating behaviour and physical activity: Results of the ECLB-COVID19 international online survey

Author

Ammar, A., Brach, M., Trabelsi, K., Chtourou, H., Boukhris, O., Masmoudi, L., Bouaziz, B., Bentlage, E., How, D., Ahmed, M., Muller, P., Muller, N., Aloui, A., Hammouda, O., Paineiras-Domingos, L. L., Braakman-Jansen, A., Wrede, C., Bastoni, S., Pernambuco, C. S., Mataruna, L., Taheri, M., Irandoust, K., Khacharem, A., Bragazzi, N. L., Chamari, K., Glenn, J. M., Bott, N. T., Gargouri, F., Chaari, L., Batatia, H., Ali, G. M., Abdelkarim, O., Jarraya, M., El Abed, K., Souissi, N., Van Gemert-Pijnen, L., Riemann, B. L., Riemann, L., Moalla, W., Gomez-Raja, J., Epstein, M., Sanderman, R., Schulz, S. V. W., Jerg, A., Al-Horani, R., Mansi, T., Jmail, M., Barbosa, F., Ferreira-Santos, F., Simunic, B., Pisot, R., Gaggioli, Andrea, Bailey, S. J., Steinacker, J. M., Driss, T., Hoekelmann, A., Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598), Ammar, A., Brach, M., Trabelsi, K., Chtourou, H., Boukhris, O., Masmoudi, L., Bouaziz, B., Bentlage, E., How, D., Ahmed, M., Muller, P., Muller, N., Aloui, A., Hammouda, O., Paineiras-Domingos, L. L., Braakman-Jansen, A., Wrede, C., Bastoni, S., Pernambuco, C. S., Mataruna, L., Taheri, M., Irandoust, K., Khacharem, A., Bragazzi, N. L., Chamari, K., Glenn, J. M., Bott, N. T., Gargouri, F., Chaari, L., Batatia, H., Ali, G. M., Abdelkarim, O., Jarraya, M., El Abed, K., Souissi, N., Van Gemert-Pijnen, L., Riemann, B. L., Riemann, L., Moalla, W., Gomez-Raja, J., Epstein, M., Sanderman, R., Schulz, S. V. W., Jerg, A., Al-Horani, R., Mansi, T., Jmail, M., Barbosa, F., Ferreira-Santos, F., Simunic, B., Pisot, R., Gaggioli, Andrea, Bailey, S. J., Steinacker, J. M., Driss, T., Hoekelmann, A., and Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598)

Abstract

Background: Public health recommendations and governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in numerous restrictions on daily living including social distancing, isolation and home confinement. While these measures are imperative to abate the spreading of COVID-19, the impact of these restrictions on health behaviours and lifestyles at home is undefined. Therefore, an international online survey was launched in April 2020, in seven languages, to elucidate the behavioural and lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. This report presents the results from the first thousand responders on physical activity (PA) and nutrition behaviours. Methods: Following a structured review of the literature, the “Effects of home Confinement on multiple Lifestyle Behaviours during the COVID-19 outbreak (ECLB-COVID19)” Electronic survey was designed by a steering group of multidisciplinary scientists and academics. The survey was uploaded and shared on the Google online survey platform. Thirty-five research organisations from Europe, North-Africa, Western Asia and the Americas promoted the survey in English, German, French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese and Slovenian languages. Questions were presented in a differential format, with questions related to responses “before” and “during” confinement conditions. Results: 1047 replies (54% women) from Asia (36%), Africa (40%), Europe (21%) and other (3%) were included in the analysis. The COVID-19 home confinement had a negative effect on all PA intensity levels (vigorous, moderate, walking and overall). Additionally, daily sitting time increased from 5 to 8 h per day. Food consumption and meal patterns (the type of food, eating out of control, snacks between meals, number of main meals) were more unhealthy during confinement, with only alcohol binge drinking decreasing significantly. Conclusion: While isolation is a necessary measure to protect public health, results indicate that it alters physical activity and eat

Published
2020

20. Short versus long small-sided game training during Ramadan in soccer player

Author

Baklouti, H., Rejeb, N., Aloui, A., Jaafar, H., Ammar, A., Chtourou, H., Girard, O., Souissi, N., Baklouti, H., Rejeb, N., Aloui, A., Jaafar, H., Ammar, A., Chtourou, H., Girard, O., and Souissi, N.

Abstract

Objective To compare the effects of two small-sided game (SSG) training formats (4 × 4 min (SSG-S) and 2 × 8 min (SSG-L)) conducted during Ramadan on Hoff and five-jump (5JT) tests' performances and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). Design Three group, case-control. Setting Field tests. Participants Twenty-four male soccer players were divided into 3 groups: 2 groups undertaking 4 weeks of SSG-S (n = 8) or SSG-L (n = 8) during Ramadan and a control group (n = 8). Main outcome measures The Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Hooper questionnaires' scores and 5JT and Hoff test's performances were measured before (BR) and at the end of Ramadan (R4). Results Compared to BR, fatigue estimated by POMS and Hooper questionnaires was higher at R4 in all groups (ES = 0.77–1.57, p < 0.05). Hoff test distance increased to the same extent in SSG-S and SSG-L groups (+7.38–7.39%, ES = 1.49–1.93, p < 0.001). Mean sRPE scores measured during Ramadan were higher after SSG-L (6.49 ± 0.38) than SSG-S (5.61 ± 0.14) sessions (+15.58%, ES = 2.79, p < 0.001). Conclusions SSG training can be implemented as an efficient intervention to avoid detraining and equally improve soccer-specific physical performance during Ramadan. Given the lower perceptual responses associated with shorter SSG sequences, this modality would be better tolerated during the fasting month, and therefore is recommended.

Published
2017

32. Effects of time-of-day on oxidative stress, cardiovascular parameters, biochemical markers, and hormonal response following level-1 Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test.

Author

Aloui, K, Abedelmalek, S, Chtourou, H, Wong, DP, Boussetta, N, and Souissi, N

Subjects
ATHLETES, BIOMARKERS, OXIDATIVE stress, RATE of perceived exertion, SYSTOLIC blood pressure, CREATINE kinase
Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of time-of-day on oxidative stress, cardiovascular parameters, muscle damage parameters, and hormonal responses following the level-1 Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (YYIRT). A total of 11 healthy subjects performed an intermittent test (YYIRT) at two times-of-day (i.e., 07:00 h and 17:00 h), with a recovery period of ≥36 h in-between, in a randomized order. Blood samples were taken at the rest (baseline) and immediately (post-YYIRT) after the YYIRT for measuring oxidative stress, biochemical markers, and hormonal response. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way and two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni test at p < 0.05. Observed power (α = 0.05) and partial eta-squared were used. Our results showed that oxygen uptake (VO2max), maximal aerobic speed, and the total distance covered tended to be higher in the evening (17:00 h). There was also a main effect of time-of-day for cortisol and testosterone concentration, which were higher after the YYIRT in the morning (p < 0.05). The heart rate peak and the rating of perceived exertion scales were lower in the morning (p < 0.05). However, the plasma glucose (p < 0.01), malondialdehyde, creatine kinase (p < 0.01), lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05), high-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01), total cholesterol (p < 0.01), and triglycerides (p < 0.05) were higher after the YYIRT in the evening. Low-density lipoprotein, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and lactate levels (p > 0.05) were similar for the morning and evening test. In conclusion, our findings suggest that aerobic performance presents diurnal variation with great result observed in the evening accompanied by an improvement of hormonal, metabolic, and oxidative responses. These data may help to guide athletes and coaches and contribute to public health recommendations on exercise and muscle damage particularly in the competitive periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2017
Full Text
View/download PDF

34. Maximal power training induced different improvement in throwing velocity and muscle strength according to playing positions in elite male handball players.

Author

Cherif, M., Chtourou, H., Souissi, N., Aouidet, A., and Chamari, K.

Abstract

This study was designed to assess the effect of strength and power training on throwing velocity and muscle strength in handball players according to their playing positions. Twenty-two male handball players were assigned to either an experimental group (n=11) or a control group (n=11) (age: 22.1 ± 3.0 years). They were asked to complete (i) the ball throwing velocity test and (ii) the one-repetition maximum (1-RM) tests for the half-back squat, the pull-over, the bench press, the developed neck, and the print exercises before and after 12 weeks of maximal power training. The training was designed to improve strength and power with an intensity of 85-95% of the 1RM. In addition to their usual routine handball training sessions, participants performed two sessions per week. During each session, they performed 3-5 sets of 3-8 repetitions with 3 min of rest in between. Then, they performed specific shots (i.e., 12 to 40). Ball-throwing velocity (p<0.001) was higher after the training period in rear line players (RL). The training programme resulted in an improvement of 1RM bench press (p<0.001), 1RM developed neck (p<0.001) and 1RM print (p<0.001) in both front line (FL) and RL. The control group showed a significant improvement only in ball-throwing velocity (p<0.01) and 1RM bench press (p<0.01) in RL. A significantly greater improvement was found in ball-throwing velocity (p<0.001), 1RM bench press (p<0.001), and 1RM half-back squat exercises in players of the central axis (CA) compared to the lateral axis (LA) (p<0.01). The power training programme induced significantly greater increases in ball-throwing velocity and muscle strength in FL than RL and in CA than LA axis players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2016
Full Text
View/download PDF

35. Rapid weight loss in the context of Ramadan observance: recommendations for judokas.

Author

Aloui, A., Chtourou, H., Briki, W., Tabben, M., Chaouachi, A., Souissi, N., Shephard, R. J., and Chamari, K.

Abstract

Judo is a weight-classified combat sport, and many athletes seek to compete at the lightest possible weight category to gain an advantage from competing against shorter/smaller, and supposedly weaker opponents. To achieve a desired weight, most judokas opt for rapid weight loss techniques. Short-duration maximal efforts are not greatly affected by "making weight", but prolonged and/or repeated exercise is significantly impaired. Negative effects on mood, ratings of perceived exertion, and cognitive function are also reported. Moreover, rapid weight loss reduces maximal cardiac output and glycogen stores, and impairs thermo-regulation. Limited empirical data suggest that Ramadan reduces judokas' performance, and this is likely to be exacerbated by attempts at rapid weight loss. Weight reduction during Ramadan tends to be counterproductive, and judokas who aim for a lower weight category are advised to attempt any desired reduction of body mass during the weeks leading up to Ramadan, rather than during the holy month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2016
Full Text
View/download PDF

42. Reducing Resistance Training Volume during Ramadan Improves Muscle Strength and Power in Football Players.

Author

Rebaï, H., Chtourou, H., Zarrouk, N., Harzallah, A., Kanoun, I., Dogui, M., Souissi, N., and Tabka, Z.

Subjects
*ANALYSIS of variance, *BODY weight, *EXERCISE, *FASTING, *FISHER exact test, *HOLIDAYS, *ISLAM, *JUMPING, *MUSCLE strength, *RESEARCH funding, *SOCCER, *STATURE, *PHYSICAL training & conditioning, *BODY movement, *RANDOMIZED controlled trials, *REPEATED measures design, *DATA analysis software, *DESCRIPTIVE statistics
Abstract

We aimed to examine the effect of maintaining or reducing resistance training volume during Ramadan-intermittent-fasting (RIF) on short-term maximal performances. 20 footballers (age: 18.4 ± 0.8 years; body-mass: 72.4 ± 4.1 kg; height: 183.4 ± 4.6 cm) were matched and randomly assigned to a normal-training-group (G1) or a tapering-group (G2). They were tested for muscular strength (maximal-voluntary-contraction) and power (squat-jump and counter-movement-jump) 1 month before RIF (T0), 1 week before RIF (T1), after 2 weeks of fasting (T2) and at the end of RIF (T3). From T1 to T2, subjects performed a whole-body resistance training program (8-repetitions × 4-sets with 4-min recovery in-between). During RIF, G1 maintained the same training program, while G2 performed a period of reduced training volume (3 sets/exercise; -22%). Muscle strength and power increased significantly from T0 to T1, from T0 to T2 and from T0 to T3 in G1 and G2 and from T1 to T2 and from T1 to T3 only in G2 (p < 0.05). Performance was higher in G2 than G1 during T2 (p < 0.01). Moreover, the ?-change of performance between T0 and T2 and T3 was significantly higher in G2 than G1 (p < 0.05). For young soccer players, a tapering period characterized by a reduced training volume during RIF may lead to significant improvement in muscle strength and power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2014
Full Text
View/download PDF

46. Listening to Music Affects Diurnal Variation in Muscle Power Output.

Author

Chtourou, H., Chaouachi, A., Hammouda, O., Chamari, K., and Souissi, Nizar

Subjects
*MUSCLE physiology, *ANALYSIS of variance, *CIRCADIAN rhythms, *COLLEGE students, *CYCLING, *EXERCISE, *EXERCISE tests, *MUSIC, *RESEARCH funding, *T-test (Statistics), *ERGOMETRY, *DATA analysis software
Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the effects of listening to music while warming-up on the diurnal variations of power output during the Wingate test. 12 physical education students underwent four Wingate tests at 07:00 and 17:00 h, after 10 min of warm-up with and without listening to music. The warm-up consisted of 10 min of pedalling at a constant pace of 60 rpm against a light load of 1 kg. During the Wingate test, peak and mean power were measured. The main finding was that peak and mean power improved from morning to afternoon after no music warm-up (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). These diurnal variations disappeared for mean power and persisted with an attenuated morning-evening difference (p < 0.05) for peak power after music warm-up. Moreover, peak and mean power were significantly higher after music than no music warm-up during the two times of testing. Thus, as it is a legal method and an additional aid, music should be used during warm-up before performing activities requiring powerful lower limbs' muscles contractions, especially in the morning competitive events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2012
Full Text
View/download PDF

Catalog

Books, media, physical & digital resources
See catalog results