Search

Context: One of the primary training variables, although often overlooked, is recovery level achieved before starting subsequent training sessions. To find a more practical measurement that is consonant with the daily training routine, the Perceived Recovery Status (PRS) scale is proposed. In this perspective, the present study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the PRS scale into Brazilian Portuguese. Design: This was a clinical measurement. Methods: The cross-cultural translation was performed according to guidelines. Linguistic validation consisted of 5 stages: forward translation, translation synthesis, back translation, analysis of inconsistencies, and cognitive debriefing. Results: During forward translation, different interpretations were obtained from the 2 translators (versions V1 and V2). Supported by an expert committee, a combined version (V3) was obtained from V1 and V2. During back translation, different interpretations were obtained from the 2 translators (versions V4 and V5). Discrepancies, applicability, and cultural equivalence were documented and analyzed by the expert committee participating in the cross-cultural translation procedure. During the cognitive debriefing, a group of 5 Brazilian people from the general population were asked to participate in a cognitive debriefing to assess the comprehensibility of the translated items. Conclusions: The PRS was translated and culturally adapted to Brazilian Portuguese (PRS-Brasil).

El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la respuesta de activación cognitiva y fisiológica de nadadores paralímpicos (n= 12) al ver la grabación de su prueba en los Juegos Paralímpicos de 2016. El diseño metodológico del estudio fue transversal y se llevó a cabo en dos etapas. El video contenía tres momentos: línea de base (LB), video neutral (VN) y video de los Juegos Paralímpicos (VJUEGOS). Durante las pruebas, se analizaron la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca (VFC) y la actividad electrodérmica (EDA) como una forma de evaluar la activación fisiológica. Antes y después del video, se recolectaron datos de activación cognitiva (Inventario de Ansiedad Estado). Se observó una reducción significativa en el tiempo medio de ritmo cardiaco y un aumento en los datos de conductancia con relación a VNxVJOGOS, demostrando activación fisiológica. No hubo diferencias significativas en las activaciones cognitivas. Si bien se puede explorar el uso de videos en los campos psicológico y deportivo, se debe prestar la debida atención al conocimiento de que su contenido puede provocar respuestas positivas o negativas al rendimiento. The aim of this study was to analyse the cognitive and physiological activation response of Paralympic swimmers (n= 12) when watching the recording of their events at the 2016 Paralympic games. The methodological design of the study was cross-sectional and carried out in two stages. The video contained three moments: baseline (BL), neutral video (NV) and Paralympic Games video (GAMESV). During the tests, Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Electrodermal Activity (EDA) were analysed as a way to evaluate physiological activation. Before and after the video, cognitive activation data (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) was collected. It was observed a significant reduction in the meantime of heartbeats and an increased conductance data in relation to NV×GAMESV, demonstrating physiological activation. However, no significant differences in cognitive activations were observed. While the use of videos in the psychological and sporting scope may be explored, certain weightings should be considered, knowing that their content may elicit positive or negative responses to performance. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar a resposta de ativação cognitiva e fisiológica de nadadores paralímpicos (n= 12) ao assistirem à gravação da sua prova nos Jogos Paralímpicos de 2016. O desenho metodológico do estudo foi caracterizado como transversal e realizado em duas etapas. O vídeo conteve três momentos: linha de base (LB), vídeo neutro (VN) e vídeo dos Jogos Paralímpicos (VJOGOS). Durante os testes foram analisados a Variabilidade da Frequência Cardíaca (VFC) e Atividade Eletrodérmica (EDA) como forma de avaliar a ativação fisiológica. Antes e após o vídeo foram coletados os dados de ativação cognitiva (Inventário de Ansiedade-Estado). Foi observada redução significativa da média de tempo dos batimentos cardíacos e aumento dos dados de condutância em relação a VNxVJOGOS, demonstrando ativação fisiológica. No entanto, não foram observadas diferenças significativas nas ativações cognitivas. Ao mesmo tempo que o uso de vídeos no âmbito psicológico e esportivo pode ser explorado, devidas ponderações devem ser consideradas sabendo que seu conteúdo pode eliciar repostas positivas ou negativas ao desempenho.

Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar e compreender o acesso à iniciação esportiva em modalidades paralímpicas e a influência vivenciada pelo meio social em adolescentes com deficiência visual. Dessa forma, foram avaliados 23 jovens abrangendo ambos os gêneros, proveniente de diferentes modalidades paralímpicas e com idade entre 13 e 18 anos. Cada voluntário participante preencheu o questionário fechado e as respostas foram avaliadas de acordo com o histórico individual e esportivo gerando um resultado médio do grupo. Foi observado a predominância entre cinco modalidades paralímpicas de experiências prévias dos atletas, como também, nas atuais modalidades praticadas. O processo de incentivo, acesso e inclusão social deu-se, em maioria, por meio do professor e das aulas de Educação Física. Conclui-se que a iniciação esportiva para crianças e adolescentes com deficiência visual em diferentes modalidades está caracterizada pela influência vivenciada pelos mesmos dentro do círculo social de cada um, composto principalmente pelo professor de Educação Física e pelos familiares. As aulas ofertadas durante o ensino fundamental e médio são essenciais para que o jovem tenha o primeiro contato, porém é indispensável que haja o desenvolvimento por meio de projetos e oportunidades esportivas em locais adequados garantindo o incentivo à participação em competições. Ainda que seja um acesso inicial e um pouco restrito em relação ao número de modalidades existentes, este processo tem tendência crescente já que o esporte paralímpico brasileiro conquista maior visibilidade nos últimos anos. Recebido em: 17/06/2022 Reformulado em: 22/06/2022 Aceito em: 22/06/2022

Handball is characterized by high-intensity efforts and sprints and jumps are crucial for the performance during the game; however, little is known about the effectiveness of plyometric training combined with repeated sprints in improving aerobic and anaerobic performance in female handball athletes. Thus, the purpose of this study was to verify whether plyometric training combined with repeated sprints would improve aerobic and anaerobic performance in female handball athletes after preseason. Twelve athletes of the U-20 category (mean age of 18.4 years) were selected, and the variables evaluated covered anthropometric characteristics, body composition, jump tests (vertical and horizontal), aerobic fitness (Yo-Yo test, level 1) and anaerobic fitness (Agility T-test and Running Based Anaerobic Sprint Test) before and after intervention (8 weeks) during the preseason. The training was held three times a week by plyometric exercises (two times a week) combined with repeated sprints (one time a week).Results showed significant differences (p≤0.05) and positive qualitative inference for all variables analyzed between the moments (jump height and distance, agility, aerobic and anaerobic resistance), except for countermovement jump (CMJ) and Fatigue Index. The results of this study revealed that plyometric training combined with repeated sprints could significantly improve aerobic and anaerobic performance in female handball athletes.

Os Jogos Paralímpicos são atualmente o momento de maior visibilidade da eficiência das pessoas com deficiência por meio do esporte. A participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual nas Paralimpíadas tem sido bem menor que das pessoas com deficiência sensorial ou motora. E as pessoas com síndrome de Down tem sido excluídas desse evento. Esse artigo tem como objetivo analisar o direito à visibilidade e participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual e síndrome de Down nas Paralimpíadas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa-descritiva realizada por meio de questionário com responsáveis da confederação de esportes para pessoa com deficiência intelectual no Brasil e Espanha. Verifcou-se que as pessoas com deficiência intelectual apresentam menos participação e as pessoas com síndrome de Down não estão participando das paralimpíadas. Conclui-se que a participação nas paralimpíadas trata-se de um direito que além de garantir o direito ao movimento e ao esporte, pode proporcionar maior visibilidade dessas pessoas e possíveis mudanças de preconceitos.

The COVID-19 outbreak resulted in the postponement of several sporting mega-events. However, research investigating the direct impacts on Paralympic sport is sparse. This study explored how Brazili...

Aims To assess the impact of dental caries on OHRQoL in Para athletes and to evaluate whether interleukin 1 alpha (IL1A) (rs17561, rs1304037), interleukin 10 (IL10) (rs1800871), and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN) (rs9005) genes are potential biomarkers for OHRQoL in Para athletes. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study consisting of 264 Para athletes (athletics, 143; powerlifting, 61; and swimming, 60) aged between 14 and 79 years was conducted. The decayed-missing-filled teeth index was used for the clinical evaluation. The Brazilian version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) was used to measure the OHRQoL. Genomic DNA was extracted from the saliva. Genetic polymorphisms were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed. Results The overall mean OHIP-14 score observed was 6.24 (standard deviation, 7.05) and 10.03 (standard deviation, 8.11) in Para athletes with no caries experience and with caries experience, respectively (p = .002). Para athletes with the A allele in the IL1A gene (rs17561), in a dominant model, had a significantly higher risk of poor psychological discomfort than those with the other allele (p = .03). Conclusion Dental caries affected the OHRQoL in Para athletes. IL1A genetic polymorphisms were the potential biomarkers for OHRQoL in Para athletes.

Aims The present study investigated if recurrent manifestation of oral herpes lesions is associated with other factors and impacts the oral health-related quality of life in para-athletes. Methods and results The studied population was composed of a convenience sample of 370 Brazilian para-athletes. All included individuals answered questionnaires and were submitted to an oral examination. A self-reported questionnaire addressed demographic and oral health data, including the recurrent manifestation of oral herpes lesions. The Oral Health Impact Profile was also applied in its reduced version with 14 questions (OHIP-14). The population was categorized according to results from previous competitions into a high-performance level, medium-performance level, and regional-performance level. Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, odds ratio calculation, logistic regression analysis, and t-tests were performed (α = 5%). Sixty (16.2%) para-athletes reported recurrent manifestations of oral herpes lesions. Para-athletes with sleep bruxism (p = .007) and awake bruxism (p = .048) had a higher chance of reporting oral herpes lesions. Type of breathing was also associated with oral herpes lesions (p = .031). The OHIP-14 mean distribution among the groups was not statistically significant (p > .05). Conclusion Bruxism and type of breathing were associated with self-reported oral herpes lesions in Brazilian para-athletes.

This study compared the in-water bilateral leg kick speed difference between a Paralympic and an Olympic athlete. The Paralympic (former S10) was not eligible after his reclassification in 2019, whereas the Olympic was a semi-finalist in 50 m freestyle in Rio 2016. Kick performance was assessed by a speedometer in one push-off ∼15 m maximal kick sprint. Ten complete cycles were analyzed, and the average speed of each leg in each cycle was calculated. Computerized planimetry assessed plantar feet areas. Differences between right and left feet areas were –22% and –2.1% for the Paralympic and Olympic, respectively. The left kick was slower in the Paralympic (p

Energy expenditure with exercise (EEEx) is an essential factor to estimate daily energy requirement. However, few studies explore this subject in para-athletes. This study aimed to assess the EEEx of Brazilian Paralympic track & field sprinters during a preparatory training phase. Five sprinters athletes with visual impairment (2 males and 3 females) were assessed through direct observation to obtain information on duration and characteristics of the training. Athletes wore a motion sensor (Actical®) to assess EEex. Results were expressed in metabolic equivalents (MET) and ranged between 1.3 and 21.5 METs. Training sessions lasted in average two hours/session and the EEEx of each session assessed ranged between 190 and 380 kcal. It was concluded that the athletes with visual impairment presented EEEx ranging from light intensity to vigorous intensity. More studies will be needed focusing on this theme, covering more athletes, modalities and functional classifications to contribute to the work of the technical team working in the sport.

Athlete development in parasport is a complex domain. Evidence on the developmental trajectories of para-athletes is necessary to examine the critical determinants of specific para-athlete development models. Underpinned by the existing athlete development models to gather insights into the different developmental phases, this study explored how athletic career pathways in parasport are developed by identifying and describing disability-specific characteristics that influence each developmental phase. Para-athlete development was explored through the lens of 32 stakeholders from the Brazilian parasport context who participated in semi-structured interviews. Results ratified the complexity and individuality of para-athlete development, highlighting that the differences according to impairment groups, an early or late start in the sport and the classification, have implications for the development of the phases of athletic pathways in parasport. The findings lend weight toward the need for models other than those traditionally used for able-bodied athletes; rather, para-athlete development models need a disability-specific approach.

Botelho, R, Abad, CCC, Spadari, RC, Winckler, C, Garcia, MC, and Guerra, RLF. Psychophysiological stress markers during preseason among elite female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 36(6): 1648-1654, 2022-This study aimed to investigate changes and correlations between mood states and various physiological stress markers after a 7-week preseason period among elite female soccer players. Twenty-four elite female soccer players participated in this study (26.4 ± 3.7 years). Their internal training load, mood states, day and evening salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations, blood creatine kinase concentration (CK), and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed during the first week of preseason (PRE), and again 7 weeks after a systematic training period (END). After the preseason, there were significant increases in subject negative mood scales (p ≤ 0.03; Effect Size [ES]0.60), total mood scores (p = 0.01; QI = 100/0/0; ES = 1.32), day and evening testosterone and cortisol concentrations (p ≤ 0.03; ES0.54), and CK concentrations (p = 0.01; QI = 100/0/0; ES = 1.54). Correlations were found between cortisol and tension (r = 0.53 and 0.60; p ≤ 0.02), cortisol and confusion (r = 0.75; p = 0.01), and cortisol and the LF/HF index of HRV (r = -0.52; p = 0.04). Mood states (except vigor), salivary testosterone, and cortisol concentrations, as well as CK, showed significant changes after a 7-week systematic training system. The cortisol was the factor most highly related to various mood states (including tension and confusion), and with the HRV indices. Coaches and researchers can use these data to design, monitor, and control soccer training programs, in particular throughout the preseason period.

Os Jogos Paralímpicos são atualmente o momento de maior visibilidade da eficiência das pessoas com deficiência por meio do esporte. A participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual nas Paralimpíadas tem sido bem menor que das pessoas com deficiência sensorial ou motora. E as pessoas com síndrome de Down tem sido excluídas desse evento. Esse artigo tem como objetivo analisar o direito à visibilidade e participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual e síndrome de Down nas Paralimpíadas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa-descritiva realizada por meio de questionário com responsáveis da confederação de esportes para pessoa com deficiência intelectual no Brasil e Espanha. Verifcou-se que as pessoas com deficiência intelectual apresentam menos participação e as pessoas com síndrome de Down não estão participando das paralimpíadas. Conclui-se que a participação nas paralimpíadas trata-se de um direito que além de garantir o direito ao movimento e ao esporte, pode proporcionar maior visibilidade dessas pessoas e possíveis mudanças de preconceitos. The Paralympic Games are currently the moment of greater visibility for the efficiency of people with disabilities through sport. The participation of people with intellectual disabilities in the Paralympics has been much lower than that of people with sensory or motor disabilities. And people with Down syndrome have been excluded from this event. This article aims to analyze the right to visibility and participation of people with intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome in the Paralympics. This is a qualitative-descriptive research carried out through a questionnaire with officials of the sports confederation for people with intellectual disabilities in Brazil and Spain. It was found that people with intellectual disabilities have less participation and people with Down syndrome are not participating in the paralympics. It is concluded that participation in the Paralympics is a right that, in addition to guaranteeing the right to movement and sport, can provide greater visibility for these people and possible changes in prejudice.

This study aimed to assess the diet quality of Brazilian Paralympic track-and-field team sprinters and its variation between days. All sprinters (n = 28) were invited, and 20 (13 men and seven women) accepted the invitation consisting of 13 athletes with visual impairment, four with cerebral palsy, and three with limb deficiency. The dietary intake was recorded by photographic register on four consecutive days, and diet quality was determined using a revised version of the Healthy Eating Index for the Brazilian population. Physical activity was assessed using an accelerometer, and metabolic unit information was used to classify exercise intensity. Variance Analysis Model and Bonferroni multiple comparisons were used to assess relationships between variables. The correlations between variables used Pearson linear correlation coefficient. The results show that revised version of the Healthy Eating Index score was classified as “needs to be modified” for all athletes. The maximum score for the components “Whole fruits,” “Total vegetables,” and “Dark green and orange vegetables and legumes” was achieved by 23.1% and 14.3%, 7.7% and 14.3%, and 46.2% and 57.8% of male and female athletes, respectively. Only 38.5% of the male athletes achieved the maximum score for the “Total cereal” component. Female athletes achieved higher scores than male athletes for the “Milk and dairy products” component (p = .03). Intake of whole grain cereals, dairy products, vegetables, and whole fruits needs modifications to improve adequate intake of vitamins and antioxidants, highlighting the need of continuous actions of nutrition education for this population.

Orientador : Luiz Eduardo Barreto Martins Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Educação Fisica Resumo: Esta pesquisa avaliou o comportamento da acuidade visual, em atletas com baixa visão, durante um protocolo de esforço contínuo. A mensuração foi realizada em dois dias de teste. A população estudada foi composta por 6 atletas com baixa visão, praticantes de atletismo, e que apresentavam resultados esportivos expressivos. No primeiro dia foram feitas: a avaliação médica, aplicação da anamnese e do questionário e o teste de esforço físico pico baseado no protocolo de Roecker (1998), realizado em esteira. No segundo dia realizou-se o teste de esforço contínuo. Este foi dividido em três níveis de esforço, cada um com 15 minutos de duração e. 30 minutos de intervalo entre eles, como delimitador das intensidades aplicadas foram utilizados os resultados obtidos no teste de esforço pico. Sendo estes: 60% do VE pico, limiar de VE e 90% do VE pico. A acuidade visual foi aferida antes, durante e após cada nível de esforço do protocolo de esforço contínuo. Antes foi realizada a avaliação visual em condições estáticas, durante o teste foram realizados em condições dinâmicas e estáticas. Na recuperação a mensuração visual foi realizada em condições estáticas. O teste visual utilizado foi uma adaptação dos optótipos de Snellen. Os resultados apresentaram durante a intensidade de 60% uma queda de 44.5% na condição dinâmica e 33.4% na condição estática. Neste nível, no final do período de repouso, 30 minutos a acuidade visual atingiu o nível pré-esforço. Durante o esforço realizado no limiar ventilatório, a acuidade visual, apresentou uma queda máxima de 52.5% no deslocamento e 42.9% na situação estática. No intervalo de repouso entre o 2° e 3° níveis a velocidade de recuperação apresentou a mais rápida recuperação e alcançando seu maior índice no minuto 25, acima do resultado pré-esforço, vindo a decair na avaliação final. No último nível de intensidade a queda em condição dinâmica foi de 60% e em condição estática foi de 52.5%. O comportamento visual durante o último estágio de esforço teve velocidade de recuperação intermediária entre o 1 ° e 2° estágios de esforços e atingiu o mais alto valor de acuidade vtsual durante todo o teste. A queda da acuidade visual durante o esforço acompanhou a intensidade do esforço. quanto maior a carga de estimulação maior era a queda desta capacidade da visão. A condição dinâmica acentuou a degradação da acuidade visual durante o protocolo proposto. Durante o período de intervalo entre os esforços a escala visual apresentou-se inversamente proporcional à intensidade de exercício e quanto maior o estímulo físico maior era a escala atingida na recuperação. O comportamento visual foi influenciado pela aprendizagem e por fatores fisiológicos, assim o primeiro nível apresentou os piores resultados, devido a pouca experiência, no segundo nível obtevese os melhores resultados devido à melhora qualitativa da visão e no terceiro estágio houve uma queda da performance visual em decorrência das altas intensidades do estresse sofrido Abstract: This research work evaluated the response of the visual acuity in visually impaired athletes during a procedure of continued physical exercise. The evaluation was carried out in two days of testing. The subjects were six visually impaired, high performance runners athletes. The following were carried out during the first day: medical examination, anamnesis and questionnaire, and peak physical exertion test based on Roecker's (1998) procedure, using a treadmill. The second day was dedicated to the continued exertion test which consisted of three exertion levels lasting 15 minutes each, with 30-minute intervals between them. The results of the peak effort test were used as a delimiting factor for applied intensities. These were 60% of peak VE, VE threshold, and 90% of peak VE. Visual acuity was assessed before, during and afier each exertion level of the continued exertion procedure. The first visual assessment (before) was carried out under static conditions; the second visual assessment (during) was carried out under both dynamic and static conditions. During recovery (after) the visual assessment was carried out under static conditions. The visual test used was an adaptation of the Snellen optometers. At 60% exertion intensity the results showed a reduction of 44.5% under dynamic conditions and 33.4% under static conditions. At that level, at the end o{the 30-minutc resting period the visual acuity returned to the pre-exertion level. During the exertion performed at the ventilatory threshold, visual acuity showed a maximum reduction of 52.5% under dynamic conditions and 42.9% under static conditions. The rest interval between the 2nd and 3rd exertion stages showed the fastest recovery, reaching its peak at 25 minutes, above the pre-exertion result, and decreasing in the final evaluation. At the last intensity level, there was a 60% reduction under dynamic conditions and 52.5% under static conditions. Visual acuity during the last stage of exertion showed an intermediate recovery speed between the 1-st and 2nd stages and reached the highest degree of visual acuity of the entire test. The reduction in visual acuity during exertion was proportional to the exertion intensity the greater stimulation load, the greater reduction in visual capacity. Dynamic conditions accentuated the degradation in visual acuity during the proposed procedure. During the interval between exertions the visual scale was inversely proportional to the intensity of the exercise - the greater the physical stimulation, the greater the degree of recovery. Visual behavior was influenced by learning and by physiological factors; therefore, the first level showed the worst results due to little experience, the second level showed the best results due to a qualitative improvement in vision and in the third stage there was a reduction in visual performance d1..le to the high intensity of stress undergone Mestrado Mestre em Educação Física

Goalball, unlike other adapted sports, was created exclusively for the persons with visual impairment. Studies of analysis of systematic observation of gambling in the sport are relatively scarce. The aim of this essay is to present models of offensive systems in which strategy and tactics are applied in goalball for a better learning, facilitating and simplifying communication between coach and athletes. Corroborating this essay, authors demonstrate that in order to obtain efficient offensive actions, it is necessary that athletes present a high tactical understanding. This essay standardizes in an illustrative and systematic way the systems of tactical positioning of goalball focusing on attack strategies and aims at the organization and technical quality of the game. The main point of this essay was to help the understanding of the visually impaired athlete in the construction of the attack in order to increase the offensive organization of a goalball team. El golbol a diferencia de otros deportes paralímpicos, fue creado exclusivamente para personas con discapacidad visual. Los estudios a respecto son relativamente escasos en lo que respecta al análisis del sistema de juego ofensivo. En este sentido, el objetivo de este ensayo fue presentar modelos de sistemas de juego ofensivos en los que se aplica la estrategia y la táctica en el golbol como estrategia que facilita el aprendizaje y la comunicación. La propuesta se estandarizó de forma ilustrativa y sistematizó las estructuras de posicionamento táctico de golbol con un enfoque en las estrategias de ataque y apunta a la organización e calidad técnica del juego. El objetivo principal de este ensayo fue ayudar a la comprensión del atleta con discapacidad visual mediante la sistematización del ataque para aumentar la organización ofensiva de un equipo de golbol. O goalball diferentemente de outros esportes paralímpicos foi criado exclusivamente para a pessoa com deficiência visual. Os estudos a respeito desse são relativamente escassos no que se refere a análise de sistema ofensivo de jogo. Nesse sentido, o objetivo desse ensaio foi apresentar modelos de sistemas de jogo ofensivo em que a estratégia e a tática se aplicam no goalball como estratégia facilitadora da aprendizagem e de comunicação. A proposta foi padronizada de maneira ilustrativa e sistematizando as estruturas de posicionamento tático do goalball com foco nas estratégias de ataque e tem por finalidade a organização e qualidade técnica do jogo. O principal apontamento desse ensaio foi auxiliar o entendimento do atleta com deficiência visual através da sistematização do ataque afim de incrementar a organização ofensiva de uma equipe de goalball. &nbsp

Goalball, unlike other adapted sports, was created exclusively for the persons with visual impairment. Studies of analysis of systematic observation of gambling in the sport are relatively scarce. The aim of this essay is to present models of offensive systems in which strategy and tactics are applied in goalball for a better learning, facilitating and simplifying communication between coach and athletes. Corroborating this essay, authors demonstrate that in order to obtain efficient offensive actions, it is necessary that athletes present a high tactical understanding. This essay standardizes in an illustrative and systematic way the systems of tactical positioning of goalball focusing on attack strategies and aims at the organization and technical quality of the game. The main point of this essay was to help the understanding of the visually impaired athlete in the construction of the attack in order to increase the offensive organization of a goalball team.

Purpose:To compare the strength, speed, and power performance of elite sprinters with and without visual impairment.Methods:Twelve elite able-bodied sprinters and 15 Paralympic sprinters with visual impairment took part in this study. Sprinters from both groups performed the following tests: squat and countermovement jumps, maximum bar-power output in the half-squat and jump-squat exercises, and 60-m sprint. The differences between groups in all variables examined were analyzed using the independentttest.Results:Olympic sprinters revealed better performances in all tests when compared with Paralympic sprinters with visual impairment (effect sizes ranging from 1.29 to 9.04;P Conclusions:Between-groups differences peaked at low-velocity exercises (eg, ∼32% in the half-squat) and decreased as movement velocity and specificity increased (eg, ∼8% at 60-m sprint). Thus, the greatest differences between Olympic and Paralympic sprinters seem to be related to their ability to apply force at low movement velocities. Coaches are encouraged to work on all sprinting phases and across the entire force–velocity spectrum, bearing in mind that improvements in strength capacity will possibly lead to increased sprint performance in Paralympic sprinters with visual impairment, especially in the acceleration phase of sprinting.

Aims This study aimed to investigate the association of the salivary pH and parameters of oral health in Brazilian para-athletes. Methods and results The sample was composed of 271 Brazilian para-athletes (147 athletics, 61 powerlifting, and 63 swimming); mean age was 31.2 ± 11.7 years. Data collected during anamnesis, clinical examination, and saliva collection revealed that salivary pH was different among sports (p = .01) and tends to decrease as age and body mass index (BMI) increase (p = .026, .027, respectively). The mean decay missing filled teeth was 8.8 (±0.57), but there is no correlation with salivary pH (R2 = -0.0852; CI 95%, -0.215-0.047; p = .194) as habits of grinding, clenching teeth, or bruxism was not associated with salivary pH (p = .317, .932, and .444, respectively). Regarding breathing, para-athletes that have buccal breathing had significantly higher salivary pH (p = .04). This data were confirmed by multiple logistic regression (p = .05). Open bite, lip seal, geographic or fissured tongue also were not associated with variation of salivary pH (p > .05). Conclusions This study provided evidence of an association between salivary pH with age, BMI, type of breathing, and type of sport practiced by the para-athletes.

Os métodos mistos de pesquisa, são definidos como um processo de recolhimento, análise e “mistura” dos dados quantitativos e qualitativos durante determinado estágio da pesquisa e em um único estudo, onde tem por objetivo, compreender melhor o problema de pesquisa. Na área da Educação Física, os métodos mistos de pesquisa, parece ser um caminho ainda pouco explorado, pois tratam-se de uma combinação de abordagens relativamente nova. Com base nisto, o presente ensaio teve como objetivo: a) apresentar os conceitos dos métodos de pesquisa mista; b) apresentar os caminhos necessários para selecionar o design de métodos mistos apropriados para a realização de um estudo de métodos mistos na área da Educação Física.

Introduction Determining the psychobiological profile of a team sport is important for defining the work to be performed in each phase, as well as in preparation for future competitions. The aim of this study was to draw a profile of mood states, depression, sleep quality, sleepiness and anxiety, of a Paralympic athletics team over a seven-month period. Materials and methods An assessment was made of 19 athletes from the Brazilian athletics team at the end of season, beginning of season, and pre-competition. The assessments were performed using following questionnaires: profile of mood states, Beck Depression Inventory, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The results were expressed as the mean and standard deviation, and the significance level was set at p Results Most of the athletes exhibited a median level of trait-state anxiety at the end and at the beginning of the season. There was difference between: pre-competition and the end of season in the vigor domain, which was increased in the pre-competition; pre-competition and the beginning of the season in the total duration of sleep, with an increase in the pre-competition; the beginning and the end of the season, in sleep latency, with a decrease at the beginning of the season. Conclusions The period during the sport season can alter psychobiological variables, such as low vigor, daytime sleepiness, with greater sleep latency at the end of the season, and poor sleep quality at the beginning of the season. On the other hand, there is good sleep quality and high vigor in the pre-competition stage, which favors a better sport performance.

O acúmulo de horas despendidas na prática regular, de maneira intencional e com objetivos delineados caracteriza a prática deliberada, e os atletas da seleção paralímpica brasileira se enquadram nesse tipo de prática. OBJETIVO: analisar a prática deliberada dos nadadores da seleção paralímpica brasileira. MÉTODO: Este trabalho foi aprovado pelo CEP nº 116.075. A amostra foi composta por 20 nadadores sendo, 12 atletas homens e oito mulheres, idades de 25,6±7,7 anos, todos integrantes do Programa de Seleções da natação do Comitê Paralímpico Brasileiro. Foi utilizado para coleta do tempo de prática deliberada um questionário misto e a Tabela de Tanner para avaliar a maturação biológica secundária. A análise dos dados foi realizada de forma descritiva, de acordo com as divisões das perguntas, os resultados foram expressos de forma quantitativa, principalmente quanto às horas despendidas de prática deliberada. RESULTADOS: 18 atletas com deficiência física e dois com deficiência visual, na prática deliberada à média de horas acumuladas foram de 12.789 horas, e a mediana foi de 10.290 horas. A maturação biológica secundária foi de 16,41±1,31 anos para o gênero masculino e 12,75±2,25 anos para o gênero feminino. CONCLUSÃO: O acúmulo de horas em prática deliberada dos nadadores da seleção Paralímpica Brasileira é semelhante a outros atletas preditos na literatura. Relacionando a maturação biológica secundária com a prática deliberada dos nadadores, observou-se que estas coincidem, predizendo que, a fase de treinamento para a especialização dos atletas na natação paralímpica ocorre após ou dentro de certos marcadores biológicos da adolescência. Recebido em: 01/12/2019 Aceito em: 02/12/2019

This study aimed to investigate the association between the optimum power load in the bench press (BP), shoulder press (SP), and prone bench pull (PBP) exercises and acceleration (ACC) and speed performances in 11 National Team wheelchair basketball (WB) players with similar levels of disability. All athletes were previously familiarized with the testing procedures that were performed on the same day during the competitive period of the season. First, athletes performed a wheelchair 20-m sprint assessment and, subsequently, a maximum power load test to determine the mean propulsive power (MPP) in the BP, SP, and PBP. A Pearson product–moment correlation was used to examine the relationships between sprint velocity (VEL), ACC, and the MPP in the three exercises. The significance level was set as p r varying from .60 to .77; p

This study compared the physical performance of Paralympic sprinters with visual impairments (PSVI) and their guides in jump and sprint tests. Ten PSVI and guides executed squat jumps (SJ), countermovement jumps (CMJ), horizontal quintuple right/left-leg jumps (QR/QL), decuple jumps (DEC), and 50-m-sprint tests. The guides were superior to the PSVI in SJ (35.9 ± 6.3 vs 45.6 ± 3.2 cm), CMJ (38.5 ± 6.2 vs 46.7 ± 4.0 cm), QR (9.2 ± 1.9 vs 12.7 ± 1.0 m), QL (9.4 ± 1.9 vs 13.1 ± 0.8 m), DEC (21.0 ± 3.3 vs. 27.2 ± 1.7 m), and 50-m sprints (8.4 ± 0.4 vs 7.6 ± 0.5 m/s). The average differences between the PSVI and guides in the sprint tests was 10%, range 1–24%. Therefore, substantial differences in sprinting speed (in favor of the guides) between the peers were observed. Coaches should develop strategies to train the guides to improve their muscle-power performance.

To compare basal metabolic rate (BMR) predicted by different equations with measured BMR of the Brazilian paralympic track & field team aiming to verify which of these equations is best suited for use in this group. Method: 19 male and 11 female athletes grouped according to functional classification (vision impairment-VI, limb deficiency-LD, and cerebral palsy-CP) had their BMR measured by indirect calorimetry and compared with values predicted by different equations: Cunningham, Owen, Harris-Benedict, FAO/OMS, Dietary Reference Intakes, and Mifflin. Body composition data were obtained by skinfold measurements. Results were reported as mean and standard deviation and analyzed using the Wilcoxon test and Pearson´s Correlation Coefficient. The Root Mean Squared Prediction Error (RMSPE) was calculated to identify the similarity between the estimated and predicted BMR. Results: Mean measured BMR was 25 ± 4.2, 26 ± 2.4, and 26 ± 2.7 kcal/kg of fat free mass/day for VI, LD, and CP, respectively. Owen´s equation had the best predictive performance in comparison with measured BMR for LD and CP athletes, within 104 and 125 kcal/day, while Mifflin’s equation predicted within 146 kcal/day for VI athletes. Conclusion: for this specific group of athletes the Owen and Mifflin equations provided the best predictions of BMR.

Body composition is a physiological variable associated with physical activity and, in some cases, is related to athletic performance. Our objectives were to describe the body composition of participants in three distinct Paralympic sports and to compare the values of body density and estimated body fat obtained from the Paralympic athletes on the National Team by air-displacement plethysmography (ADP) and by the anthropometric method (skinfolds (SFs)). The sample consisted of 70 volunteers of both genders. The body composition of the volunteers was evaluated using the ADP in a Bod Pod(®) and seven SFs. There were no significant differences between the values obtained by ADP and SF for body fat percentage (p = .58) and body density (p = .49). Analysis by Bland-Altman plots showed mean differences of 0.56 ± 4.94 (-9.12-10.23) and -0.0017 ± 0.0113 (-0.024-0.020) for body fat percentage and body density, respectively. In conclusion, body composition analyses of Paralympic athletes by the ADP and SF methods show similar results, and ADP should be used as the first option when available. When the use of ADP is not possible, estimating body density and fat percentage by SF is a viable alternative for Paralympic athletes when future comparisons will use the same analysis method.

Purpose: To examine the relationships between different loading intensities and movement velocities in the bench-press exercise (BP) in Paralympic powerlifters. Methods: A total of 17 national Paralympic powerlifters performed maximum dynamic strength tests to determine their BP 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in a Smith-machine device. A linear position transducer was used to measure movement velocity over a comprehensive range of loads. Linear-regression analysis was performed to establish the relationships between the different bar velocities and the distinct percentages of 1RM. Results: Overall, the correlations between bar velocities and %1RM were strong over the entire range of loads (R2 .80–.91), but the precision of the predictive equations (expressed as mean differences [%] between actual and predicted 1RM values) were higher at heavier loading intensities (∼20% for loads ≤70% 1RM and ∼5% for loads ≥70% 1RM). In addition, it seems that these very strong athletes (eg, 1RM relative in the BP = 2.22 [0.36] kg·kg−1, for male participants) perform BP 1RM assessments at lower velocities than those previously reported in the literature. Conclusions: The load–velocity relationship was strong and consistent in Paralympic powerlifters, especially at higher loads (≥70% 1RM). Therefore, Paralympic coaches can use the predictive equations and the reference values provided here to determine and monitor the BP loading intensity in national Paralympic powerlifters.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess and monitor the peak torque of the knee extensor and flexor muscles in flexion and extension and the reports of musculoskeletal complaints in members of the main Brazilian Paralympic athletics team through 1 yr. DESIGN Fourteen healthy athletes from both sexes were assessed three times in 1 yr. The volunteers were assessed for the presence of musculoskeletal complaints and muscle strength at three time points: (1) at the onset of the preparatory phase on December 2009, (2) at a follow-up assessment on June 2010, and (3) before actual competition on December 2010. The athletes' self-reported musculoskeletal complaints were assessed in structured interviews, and the muscle strength was assessed by means of isokinetic dynamometry. RESULTS The knee flexor and extensor muscle strength exhibited significant increase in both the right and left lower limbs at the second and third assessments compared with the first one (P < 0.05). Muscle imbalance was associated with knee and thigh complaints at all three assessments (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The knee flexor and extensor muscle strength exhibited a gradual increase in both lower limbs during the course of the three assessments. In parallel, muscle imbalance was associated with the occurrence of knee and thigh complaints.

One of the greatest challenges when working with athletes is to achieve the energy demands for physiological processes and exercise expenditure. The aim of this study was to assess the energy availability (EA) of Paralympic track and field athletes (sprinters). Seventeen athletes (9 male and 8 female) with visual impairment (VI, n=10), cerebral palsy (CP, n=4) and limb deficiency (LD, n=3) were assessed for energy intake (EI) (4-day food photographic record), energy expenditure with exercise (EEex) (motion sensor), and body composition (skinfolds method). Energy availability was estimated using the equation: EA = (EIkcal - EEexkcal) / fat-free mass (FFM) / day, and values ≤ 30kcal/kgFFM/day were considered as low energy availability (LEA). EEex varied from 130 to 477kcal/h and athletes trained in average for 3.2 hours per day. Mean EA for VI, LD and CP were 36 (2.19), 37 (1.90) and 38 (3.38) kcal/kgFFM/day, respectively. Most (82.3%) participants presented EA below ≥ 45kcal/kgFFM/day, throughout the days, which are the recommended values for athletes without disability. Athletes should be encouraged to consume adequate EA to avoid consequences related to low energy availability. There is need of further research to identify cut-off values adequate for this population. Resumo Um dos maiores desafios ao trabalhar com atletas é alcançar as demandas de energia para os processos fisiológicos e despesas com exercícios. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a disponibilidade de energia (EA) dos atletas paralimpico de atletismo (velocistas). Dezessete atletas (9 homens e 8 mulheres) com deficiência visual (VI, n=10), paralisia cerebral (CP, n=4) e deficiência motora (LD, n=3) foram avaliados quanto à ingestão de energia (EI) (4 dias de registro fotográfico dos alimentos), gasto de energia com exercício (EEex) (sensor de movimento) e composição corporal (método de dobras cutâneas). A disponibilidade de energia foi estimada usando a equação: EA = (EIkcal - EEexkcal) / massa livre de gordura (FFM) / dia e, os valores ? 30kcal/kgFFM/dia foram considerados como baixa disponibilidade de energia (LEA). O EEex variou de 130 a 477kcal/h e os atletas treinaram em média por 3,2 horas por dia. A EA média para VI, LD e CP foi 36 (2,19), 37 (1,90) e 38 (3,38) kcal/kgFFM/dia, respectivamente. A maioria (82,3%) participantes apresentaram EA abaixo de ? 45kcal/kgFFM/ dia, ao longo dos dias, que são os valores recomendados para atletas sem deficiência. Os atletas devem ser encorajados a consumir EA adequada para evitar conseqüências relacionadas a baixa disponibilidade de energia. Há necessidade de pesquisas adicionais para identificar valores de corte adequados para essa população.

The aim of this study was to describe the variations in power performance of elite Paralympic judo athletes across three consecutive training cycles of preparation for the ParaPan American Games, the World Championship and the Paralympic Games. Eleven Paralympic judokas from the Brazilian National team participated in this study. They were repeatedly assessed using squat and countermovement jumps, mean propulsive power (MPP) in the jump-squat (JS), the bench press and prone bench pull at several moments of the preparation. Training supervision based on the optimum power zone (range of loads where power production is maximized) was provided in the final cycle, prior to the Paralympic Games. Magnitude-based inference was used to compare the repeated measurements of power performance. Lower and upper limb muscle power gradually increased throughout the cycles; however, the best results in all exercises were observed prior to the Paralympic Games, during which the team won four silver medals. As an illustration, prior to participation in the Paralympic Games the MPP in the JS was likely to very likely higher than prior to the World Championship (effect size [ES] = 0.77) and ParaPan American Games (ES = 0.53), and in January and March 2016 (ES = 0.98 and 0.92, respectively; months preceding the Paralympic Games). Power performance assessments can provide information about the evolution of Paralympic judokas, and training at the optimum power zone seems to constitute an effective method to improve lower and upper limb power in these athletes.

RESUMO O esporte paralímpico cresceu muito nos últimos anos, com isso, torna-se importante a avaliação do sono e da qualidade de vida dos atletas, as quais podem influenciar em seus desempenhos. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a diferença de percepção de qualidade de sono e de vida entre atletas paralímpicos dois meses antes dos Jogos Paralímpicos de Londres. Foram avaliados 30 atletas com deficiência física (18 atletas) e deficiência visual (12 atletas). Para avaliar a qualidade subjetiva de sono, a sonolência e a qualidade de vida (QV) utilizou-se o questionário de Pittsburgh, a escala de Epworth e o WHOQOL-bref, respectivamente. Para comparação entre grupos de deficiência foi utilizado o teste Mann-Whitney. Para verificar diferenças entre os domínios de QV foi utilizado o teste de Friedman, seguido do teste de Wilcoxon. A associação entre variáveis nominais foi analisada pelo teste qui-quadrado. Houve predomínio de atletas com eficiência de sono >85%. Não houve diferença entre os grupos na comparação da percepção da qualidade de sono. O domínio “meio ambiente” apresentou menor escore comparado a todos os outros domínios, enquanto o domínio “relações sociais” apresentou menor escore comparado ao domínio “psicológico”. Não houve diferença na qualidade de sono e QV entre as deficiências. ABSTRACT Paralympic sport has grown significantly in recent years, andtherefore, is important to evaluate the sleep and the quality of life of these athletes, which can influence their performance. The objective of the study was to verify if there is a difference in perceptions of sleep and quality of life among Paralympic athletes, two months before the London Paralympic Games. A total of30 athletes with physical disability (18 athletes) and visual impairment (12 athletes) were evaluated. The Pittsburgh questionnaire, the Epworth scale and the WHOQOL-bref, respectively, were used to assess subjective sleep quality, somnolence and quality of life (QOL). For comparison between disability groups were used the Mann-Whitney test. To verify differences between the domains of QOL, the Friedman test was used, followed by the Wilcoxon test. The association between nominal variables was analyzed by the Chi-square test. There was a predominance of athletes with sleep efficiency >85%. There was no difference between the groups in the comparison of perception of the quality of sleep. The domain "environment" showed lower scores compared to the other domains, while the domain "social relations" showed lower score compared to the "psychological". There was no difference in the sleep and life between disabilities.

The aims of this study were to determine the epidemiology, nature, and pattern of sports injuries in Brazilian Paralympic track and field athletes with visual impairment and to assess differences between visual classes and sex.Forty visually impaired elite Paralympic athletes participated in this study (28 males and 12 females). All athletes competed in International Paralympic competitions between 2004 and 2008. According to the visual classification, 14 athletes were T/F11, 15 were T/F12, and 11 were T/F13. A standardized report form was used to collect injury data during five competitions.Thirty-one athletes reported 77 sports injuries, with a prevalence of 78%, a clinical incidence of 1.93 injuries per athlete, and an incidence rate of 0.39 injuries per athlete per competition. Overuse injuries accounted for 82% and traumatic injuries 18% (P0.05). Small variations in the prevalence and clinical incidence of injury between sexes and visual classes were observed, but these were not statistically different (P0.05). The highest distribution of injury was in the lower limbs (87%), followed by spine (12%) and upper limbs (1%). The body regions most affected were the thighs (33.8%), lower legs (16.9%), and knees (9.1%). The most frequent diagnoses were spasms (26%), tendinopathies (23.4%), and strains (13%).Elite visually impaired track and field Paralympic athletes present a pattern of overuse injuries predominantly affecting the lower limbs, particularly the thighs, lower legs, and knees. These injuries are associated with tendinopathies, muscle spasms, and strains. There were no apparent differences in injury characteristics between visual classes or sex.