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This study aimed to evaluate the effect of head pre-cooling on the 5-km time trial performance of amateur runners in the heat. In a counterbalanced design, fifteen male amateur runners (22.6 ± 3.5 y; VO2 max in heat 42.3 ± 4.4 mLO2 /kg/min) completed two 5-km time trials performed in the heat (35 °C, 50% relative humidity). In one trial (HCOOL), participants underwent 20 min of head cooling in a temperate environment (23 °C, 70% relative humidity) prior to exercise. In another trial (CON), exercise was preceded by 20 min of rest under the same temperature conditions. Exercise time was shorter in HCOOL (25 min and 36 s ± 3 min) compared to CON (27 min ± 3 min; p= 0.02). Rectal temperature was reduced during the pre-exercise intervention in HCOOL (p< 0.001), but not in CON (p= 0.55). Relative changes in rectal temperature and mean head temperature were lower throughout HCOOL when compared with CON condition (p= 0.005 and p= 0.022, respectively). Mean skin temperature, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion did not differ between HCOOL and CON conditions throughout exercise (p= 0.20, p= 0.52 and 0.31, respectively). Thermal comfort was lower in HCOOL condition in pre-exercise (p= 0.014) with no differences observed throughout exercise (p= 0.61). 5-km running performance in a hot environment was improved after a 20-min head cooling intervention, suggesting that this method may be practical as pre-cooling strategy and easily administered to both professional and amateur runners alike.

Background Chocolate milk has gained recent scientific support as a recovery drink. However, it is known that high exercise-demand triggers gastrointestinal discomfort which continues post-exercise, thereby hindering this nutritional strategy. In addition, those who are lactose intolerant cannot benefit from a milk-based beverage. Thus, the aim of this preliminary study was to develop a low-fat, lactose-free, and leucine-enriched chocolate cow milk prototype (CML) representing nutrition-related recommendations for football players, as well as assess athletes’ individual subjective outcomes for gastrointestinal complaints and sensorial acceptability in a field-based setting following strenuous team-sport physical demands. Methods This study followed a single group and repeated-measured design with 10 football players (23 ± 2 yrs., 74 ± 14 kg, 174 ± 5 cm) who consumed CML following a 90-min football match simulation protocol (FMP). The total CML intake to achieve 0.150 g leucine·kg [BW]·h− 1 occurred in aliquots of 50, 30 and 20% at 0-, 45- and 75-min post-FMP, respectively. Athletes were evaluated by the prevalence, the type and severity (bloating, nausea, flatulence, and gastric reflux) of gastrointestinal complaints and sensorial acceptability (overall perception, appearance, consistency, and flavour) after drinking each aliquot in a 4-h recovery period. Results The CML showed higher scores for “Product Acceptability Index” (88%) and sensorial acceptability (~ 8 in 9-point hedonic scale). Kendall’s W with bootstrapped resample (95%CI) revealed agreement among respondents as “moderate” (overall perception, flavour) to “strong” (appearance, consistency) and with no significant agreement differences between rater response in the timeline analysis (0.57 up to 0.87; p > 0.05). Agresti-Caffo add-4 analysis (95% confidence interval, [95%CI]) revealed no differences in each time-point analysis versus baseline for athletes classified as having severe gastrointestinal symptoms, but confirmed concern with bloating (three athletes showed a transient response at 2-h and only one continued until 3-h; p = 0.051). Conclusions These preliminary findings suggest that CML presents good taste and high acceptability by the sampled athletes. Thus, CML may be an alternative sport drink for immediate post-workout supplementation to overcome the energy deficit, offer co-ingested leucine, maintain palatability and adherence including lactose intolerance following a team sport-specific fatigue. Trial registration RBR-2vmpz9 , 10/12/2019, retrospectively registered.

Physical activity, sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep are habitual human behaviors (HHB) which are modifiable throughout the different life phases. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze how the time distribution throughout the day among HHB may be associated with body mass index (BMI). These results could provide inferences which can guide interventions that trigger changes in adolescent behaviors in favor of their health. The objective of this study was to verify the proportion of adolescents who meet the recommendation of sleep, moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and screen time (ST); to analyze the associations between HHB and BMI, and to determine possible changes in BMI associated with time reallocation between different HHB. Daily HHB recommendations (yes/no) were analyzed by frequency distribution. Compositional data analyses were used to examine the association between HHB and the BMI z-score (zBMI) with covariates (sex, age, and socioeconomic status). Compositional isotemporal substitution models estimated the change in zBMI associated with HHB reallocations from 15 to 120 minutes. A total of 185 adolescents were included (15 to 18 years, 50.8% boys). Thus, total sleep time, SB, light physical activity (LPA) and MVPA were measured by 24-hour accelerometry for seven consecutive days. ST, demographic characteristics, and socioeconomic status were assessed using a questionnaire. Sleep, MVPA, and ST recommendations were achieved by 32.97%, 8.10%, and 1.08% of the sample, respectively. No adolescent was able to achieve all of the daily recommendations. Age was significantly and positively associated with zBMI (pzBMI (95CI% z-value, 0.01 to 1.49). The HHB relocation estimates in 24h did not show positive effects on zBMI, nor did it increase the time engaged in MVPA, which may raise the hypothesis that other parameters related to obesity and their related interactions need to be better understood.

Aims: The present study aimed to analyze the effects of the 3- and 6-substitution rule and qualification round on substitution pattern, game statistics, win rate, and winning probability in Brazil's largest U-20 football tournament. Methods: We analyzed 1,339 matches from the São Paulo Junior Football Cup implementing a before-after design considering 6 years (three seasons for 3-subs and three for 6-subs). Results: Approximately 31% of teams used the total number of replacements of 6-subs with the same substitution pattern between rounds. The win rate for both substitution rules was approximately 79% (OR = 3.10, 95%CI [2.18, 4.51]) with a small reduced magnitude (approximately 5%) in 6-subs knockout games. Logistic regression analysis showed that the 6-subs regulation tournament predicted a reduced probability (-12%) of a match ending with a win in the knockout round. There were 6-subs knockout effects (p < 0.05) on game statistics with “negligible” effect size (ES) on “effective playing time” (+1 min; ES = 0.15); decreased “goal scoring” (-0.3;ES = 0.09) and “red cards” per match (-0.1; ES = 0.06). An ordered probit model and partial effects showed that including a replacement unit on a team increased the winning probability by 8% in the group stage, and reduced the chance (-4%) for the opponents trying to do the same in the knockout stage. Conclusion: Overall, 6-subs caused minor effects on the game statistics, win rate, and winning probability. Understanding substitution strategies and motivation, individual and collective performance effects, and whether there will be changes in the game profile will become relevant research issues when a greater number of substitutions rules are universally instituted.

The use of artificial turf (AT) for professional soccer has been a controversial topic since its introduction in the 1980s. One concern has been its potential to give teams with AT an additional home advantage (HA). After identifying all teams in the top two levels of domestic competition adopting AT after July 2004, the implementation date for FIFA-approved AT, the purpose of the study was to establish whether or not HA for these teams increased as a result of the switch to AT. Only teams playing two seasons on natural turf (NT), followed by two on AT were included, resulting in 43 teams from 13 different countries. A general linear model was fitted, with HA as the dependent variable, with the season as a factor, while controlling for team ability, overall league HA, number of other teams in the league with AT and concomitant switching to a new stadium, all variables that might have had a confounding influence on HA. No significant difference in HA was found between the four seasons (p = .85). Th...

Aims: The aims of this study were: i) to verify whether player internal load (PIL) monitored via heart rate (HR) varies with game-time and playing position; ii) whether intermittent running capacity (IRC) is related to the maintenance of within-match PIL in elite youth (U-15) soccer players. \ud \ud Method: Twenty-one elite soccer players (14±0.5 yrs, 172±7 cm, 63±6 kg) had their heart rate monitored (beats/min) in five matches and were tested twice for IRC (Yo-YoIR2, distance [m]) over a seven-week competitive season. Percentage of maximal heart rate (%HRmax) and time spent (TS%) in five zones (Z1[96%]) were our PIL indexes. Data from three complete games in the same position of each player were analyzed and matches halves, time intervals (T1 to T6), and playing positions (fullbacks, central defenders and forwards [N=5 each], midfielders [N=6]) were compared, and the relationship between IRC and within-match PIL was determined. \ud \ud Results: PIL was higher in 1st (86±3%) than in the 2nd half (84±4%; p

da Silva, CD, Machado, G, Fernandes, AA, Teoldo, I, Pimenta, EM, Marins, JCB, and Garcia, ES. Muscle damage-based recovery strategies can be supported by predictive capacity of specific global positioning system accelerometry parameters immediately after soccer match-load. J Strength Cond Res 35(5): 1410-1418, 2021-Soccer match-load can be linked to recovery kinetic markers. However, match variability hinders the magnitude of relationship between parameters of interest. Therefore, we examined the correlation between 21 global positioning system accelerometry (GPS-A) parameters and changes in serum creatine kinase (CK) concentrations, muscle soreness (MS), and perceptive recovery quality (PRQ) assessed at baseline (1 h before) and post (0 minute, 2, 4, and 24 hours) a standardized 90-minute match-simulation in 20 university players. Global positioning system accelerometry (15 Hz) data were tested as manufacturer and configurable thresholds. Four GPS-A parameters showed moderate to very large correlations with CK changes at all time points (average speed [avgSP, r = 0.75 to r = 0.84]; running symmetry foot strikes [RSfst, r = 0.53-0.63]; running series [RunS, r = 0.53-0.61]; and acceleration distance [AccD ≥ 1.5 m·s-2; r = 0.46-0.61]). Sprint count (≥2 m·s-2), AccD (≥2.5 m·s-2) and speed exertion (SpEx) had a moderate to large correlation (r = 0.46-0.56) with CK changes from 2 to 24 hours. Changes in MS at 0 minute had large correlation with avgSP (r = 0.53) and moderate with deceleration distance (≥-2 and ≥-3 m·s-2; r = 0.47, r = 0.48, respectively). The PRQ changes had moderate inverse correlation with avgSP at 0 minute (r = -0.39) and SpEx at 2 h (r = -0.69). Our results suggest that during a simulated soccer protocol with a standard workload, only the avgSP has practical application for predicting CK changes over 24 hours, allowing for a decision-making toward a postgame recovery based on previously known CK cutoff points. Global positioning system accelerometry parameters and subjective variables did not demonstrate relevant correlation.

The present study compared the competitive balance (CB) of Brazilian professional football with those of Germany, Spain, France, England, Italy and Portugal first division leagues, between the period from 2003/2004 to 2016/2017. In addition, a trend line of the period and the overall effect was analysed. The CB was measured by the concentration of points by the first four teams placed in the final standings (C4ICB). Descriptive values ​​showed that the competitions were not fully balanced (i.e. C4ICB> 100). (Md= 145, 148, 148, 152 and 155, respectively, p 0.05). The CB trend lines for Spain, Portugal and the overall effect were significant and showed a decline in the period (p

The home advantage in soccer: comparision between Libertadores of American Cup and UEFA Champions LeagueThe objective of this study was to compare the home advantage (HA) in Libertadores of American Cup (LAC) and UEFA Champions League (UCL). We analyzed all matches of group phase (n = 1536) from 2004 to 2011 seasons. To quantify the HA, we use the methodology of recovery percentage points, proposed by POLLARD3, considered HA, values greater than 50%. There were a significant difference (p = 0.010) between LAC (67.8 ± 4%) and UCL (60.5 ± 5%). The magnitude of the mean (mean difference = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.020 to 0.127) was large (h2 = 0.35). We concluded that the HA was higher in LAC than in UCL in this seasons and the factors such as altitude, distance traveled fans characteristics and referee behavior it will be able to help to explain this phenomenon in future studies.

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a validade preditiva das equações de referência para predição da força de preensão manual (FPM) em homens brasileiros de meia idade e idosos. Foram avaliados 60 homens com idade de 58,7±8,6 anos (50-84 anos), estatura 168,7±8,0 cm, massa corporal 67,9±13,0 kg e índice de massa corporal 23,7±4,0 kg/m², utilizando equipamento 'padrão-ouro' na avaliação da FPM e seguindo todas as recomendações metodológicas preconizadas pela American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Os resultados do diagrama de Bland-Altman para mão dominante (MD) apresentam um erro médio (viés) de -8,4% (IC95% -51,6-34,7). Já o diagrama de Bland-Altman para mão não dominante (MND) apresenta um erro médio (viés) de 1,4% (IC95% -47,1-49,8). O cálculo de Cronbach's alpha para a MD foi de 0,69 e 0,59 para MND. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse para MD foi 0,52 (IC95% 31-68) e de 0,42 (IC95% 20-60) para a MND. Concluímos que as equações para predição analisadas neste estudo, para uma população de homens brasileiros de meia idade e idosos, apresentou baixa validade preditiva, o que pode gerar erros de interpretação dos resultados.

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a validade preditiva das equações de referência para predição da força de preensão manual (FPM) em homens brasileiros de meia idade e idosos. Foram avaliados 60 homens com idade de 58,7±8,6 anos (50-84 anos), estatura 168,7±8,0 cm, massa corporal 67,9±13,0 kg e índice de massa corporal 23,7±4,0 kg/m², utilizando equipamento 'padrão-ouro' na avaliação da FPM e seguindo todas as recomendações metodológicas preconizadas pela American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Os resultados do diagrama de Bland-Altman para mão dominante (MD) apresentam um erro médio (viés) de -8,4% (IC95% -51,6-34,7). Já o diagrama de Bland-Altman para mão não dominante (MND) apresenta um erro médio (viés) de 1,4% (IC95% -47,1-49,8). O cálculo de Cronbach's alpha para a MD foi de 0,69 e 0,59 para MND. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse para MD foi 0,52 (IC95% 31-68) e de 0,42 (IC95% 20-60) para a MND. Concluímos que as equações para predição analisadas neste estudo, para uma população de homens brasileiros de meia idade e idosos, apresentou baixa validade preditiva, o que pode gerar erros de interpretação dos resultados.The objective of this study was to verify the predictive validity of reference equations for hand grip strength (HGS) in middle-aged and elderly Brazilian men. We evaluated 60 men with age of 58.7±8.6 years, height 168.7±8.0 cm, body mass 67.9±13.0 kg, and body mass index 23.7±4.0 kg/m², utilizing the gold standard equipment for evaluation of HGS and following all methodological recommendations of the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASTH). The results of the Bland-Altman diagram for the dominant hand (DH) had a mean error (bias) of -8.4% (95%CI -51.6-34.7). The Bland-Altman diagram for the non-dominant hand (NDH) had a mean error (bias) of 1.4% (95%CI -47.1-49.8). The calculation of Cronbach's alpha was 0.69 for the DH and 0.59 for the NDH. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.52 (95%CI 31-68) for the DH and 0.42 (95%CI 20-60) for the NDH. We therefore conclude that the reference equations for HGS evaluated in this study has low predictive validity for a population of Brazilian men middle-aged and elderly, and may lead to a misinterpretation of the results.

Research into obtaining a fast, valid, reliable and non-invasive measure of core temperature is of interest in many disciplinary fields. Occupational and sports medicine research has attempted to determine a non-invasive proxy for core temperature particularly when access to participants is limited and thermal safety is of a concern due to protective encapsulating clothing, hot ambient environments and/or high endogenous heat production during athletic competition. This investigation aimed to determine the validity of inner canthus of the eye temperature (TEC) as an alternate non-invasive measure of intestinal core temperature (TC) during rest, exercise and post-exercise conditions. Twelve physically active males rested for 30 min prior to exercise, performed 60 min of aerobic exercise at 60% V̇O2max and passively recovered a further 60 min post-exercise. TEC and TC were measured at 5 min intervals during each condition. Mean differences between TEC and TC were 0.61 °C during pre-exercise, −1.78 °C during exercise and −1.00 °C during post-exercise. The reliability between the methods was low in the pre-exercise (ICC=0.49 [−0.09 to 0.82]), exercise (ICC=−0.14 [−0.65 to 0.44]) and post-exercise (ICC=−0.25 [−0.70 to 0.35]) conditions. In conclusion, poor agreement was observed between the TEC values measured through IRT and TC measured through a gastrointestinal telemetry pill. Therefore, TEC is not a valid substitute measurement to gastrointestinal telemetry pill in sports and exercise science settings., Highlights • Inner canthus of the eye is not a valid measure of intestinal core temperature. • Inner canthus of the eye temperature has severe errors in exercises settings. • The variability is more evident in the aerobic exercise and post-exercise conditions.

O objetivo deste trabalho consistiu em analisar os efeitos da suplementação de leucina isolada (L-leucina) numa matriz particularizada de bebida achocolatada sobre marcadores de referência da recuperação após perturbações agudas da homeostase fisiológica e metabólica decorrentes de um protocolo de exercício que simula o futebol. A condição hipotética foi de que a adição de L-leucina criaria umblend que sustentaria o potencial anabólico e antiproteolítico desse aminoácido, além de considerar a necessidade e cinética de absorção particulares às demandas recuperativas de atletas de futebol, apresentando, assim, efeito potencial sinérgico ao processo de recuperação, principalmente via resposta insulínica. Após o levantamento de macros e micronutrientes e estabelecimento dos ingredientes e do fluxograma produtivo, desenvolveu-se a bebida achocolatada experimental suplementada com L-leucina [BALL] e uma bebida placebo para controle experimental utilizando a mesma matriz, porém adicionada em equivalência com colágeno bovino hidrolisado [BACH]. Dessa forma, permitiu-se a ingestão isovolumétrica, isonitrogenada e isoenergética entre os tratamentos. Resultados do processo fabril demonstraram que as bebidas apresentaram problemas na saturação em virtude da quantidade de solutos. No entanto, o corpo de fundo formado foi passível de correção com a proposta agite antes de beber. Ambas as bebidas estiveram dentro dos limites toleráveis de condição microbiológica (aeróbios mesófilos: ~1.2x102 UFC/mL; coliformes totais: ~1x102 UFC/mL; e ausência de Salmonella sp. e E.Coli) para a Instrução Normativa n.º. 16/2005. Esses resultados evidenciam que a BALL atende aos parâmetros exigidos pela legislação para bebida láctea pasteurizada, produto considerado referência por semelhança na ausência de legislação específica para leite com chocolate suplementado, resultando em um produto com boa qualidade higiênico-sanitária, indicado para consumo humano. Para a etapa do teste do efeito recuperativo da bebida experimental, 20 voluntários, integrantes do time de futebol da Liga Atlética Universitária, foram designados aleatoriamente (BALL, N=10; 23 ± 2 anos, 74 ± 14 kg, 174 ± 5 cm; BACH, N=10; 23 ± 2 anos, 73 ± 7 kg, 176 ± 5 cm) após protocolo de simulação de futebol (SAFT90+) e monitorados em parâmetros recuperativos até 24 h. Com o uso de BALL pósexercício, foi observado alto índice de aceitação sensorial afetiva (84% a 90%, para impressão geral, aparência, consistência e sabor), não se modificando na linha do tempo de ingestão e não ocorrendo comprometimento da sensação de conforto gastrointestinal (p>0,05). A BALL promoveu aumento significativo no nível de insulina após 2 h de ingestão (BALL= 43 ± 20 UI/mL vs. BACH= 21 ± 10 UI/mL; p0,05). Contudo, houve comprometimento dos status de hidratação via gravidade específica da urina, com a maioria dos voluntários sendo classificados como desidratação significativa ou grave (BALL= 70%; BACH= 100%), prejuízos no delta do volume plásmatico (BALL= ~-2.2 ± 4.2% e BACH= ~-1.1 ± 5%), assim como não restabelecimento da sensação de sede para valores pré-exercício até 4 h pósingestão. Conclui-se que a intervenção com BALL promoveu aumento sinérgico significativo na insulina após 2 h de ingestão, apresentando alto escore de aceitação sensorial afetiva, não comprometimento da sensação de conforto gastrointestinal e alta taxa de retenção de fluidos, assim como amortização de respostas de CK às 24 h pós-ingestão. No entanto, a BALL não proporcionou diferenças significativas na percepção de dor muscular, testosterona, cortisol, razão T/C, nos marcadores gerais de imunidade, mioglobina e massa corporal e nas escalas de recuperação percebida e dor muscular. Segundo Resolução RDC n.º 18/2010, a BALL constitui-se em suplemento para substituição parcial de refeições para atletas. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of supplementation of isolated leucine (L-leucine) in a particularized array of chocolate milk drink on the recovery reference markers after acute disorders of physiological and metabolic homeostasis due to an exercise protocol that simulates soccer. The hypothetical condition was that the addition of L-leucine would create a blend that would sustain the anabolic potential and anti-proteolytic of this amino acid, furthermore to considering the need and kinetics of specific absorption to recovery demands of soccer players, presenting therefore, synergistic potential effect to the recovery process, especially via insulin response. After the lifting of macro and micronutrients and establishment of the ingredients and production of the flow chart, the experimental chocolate beverage supplemented with L-leucine [Ball] and a placebo drink was developed for experimental control using the same array, however added in equivalence with bovine collagen hydrolyzate [BACH]. Thus, isovolumetric intake, isonitrogenous and isoenergetic was allowed during treatments. Results demonstrated that the manufacturing process of the drinks presented problems in saturation due to the amount of solute. However, the "background body" formed was subject to correction with the proposed "shake before drinking." Both drinks were within tolerable limits of microbiological condition (aerobic mesophilic: ~1.2x102 CFU/mL, total coliforms: ~1x102 CFU/mL, and absence of Salmonella and E.Coli) to the Normative Instruction. 16/2005. These results show that BALL meets the parameters required by law to pasteurized milk drink, a product considered a reference for similarity in the absence of specific legislation in Brazil to "chocolate milk supplemented", resulting in a product with good sanitary conditions, suitable for human consumption. For recovery effect of the test phase of such experimental drink, 20 volunteers, soccer team members of the University Athletic League were randomly assigned (BALL, N= 10, 23 ± 2 years, 74 ± 14 kg, 174 ± 5 cm; BACH, N= 10; 23 ± 2 years 73 ± 7 kg 176 ± 5 cm) after soccer simulation protocol (SAFT90+) and recovery monitored parameters to 24 h. Using BALL after exercise, it was possible to observe a high affective sensory acceptance rate (84% to 90% for general impression, appearance, consistency and flavor), which did not modify the timeline of ingestion whith no occurrence of gastrointestinal discomfort (p>0.05). BALL caused a significant increase in the insulin level for 2 h after ingestion (BALL= 43 ± 20 UI/mL vs. 21 ± 10 BACH= UI/mL; p0.05). However, there was impairment of the hydration status via urine specific gravity, with most of the volunteers classified as "significant dehydration" or "severe" (BALL= 70%; BACH= 100%), losses in the delta plasma volume (BALL= ~-2.2 ± 4.2% and BACH= ~ -1.1 ± 5%), and not restoring the sensation of thirst for pre-exercise values up to 4 h after ingestion. In conclusion, that the intervention with BALL caused a significant synergistic increase in insulin after 2 h of ingestion, showing high score affective to sensory acceptance, no feeling of gastrointestinal discomfort and high rate of fluid retention, as well as amortization of CK responses at 24 h post-ingestion. However, BALL did not reveal significant differences in perception of muscle pain, testosterone, cortisol, the T/C in the general markers of immunity, myoglobin, body weight and the perceived recovery scales and muscle pain. According to Resolution RDC n.º. 18/2010, BALL is constituted as a "supplement for partial meal replacement for athletes."

The aims of this study were to examine in young soccer players (a) the effect of varying the number of players on exercise intensity (EI) and technical actions during small-sided games (SSGs), (b) the reliability of EI and technical actions, and (c) the influence of the players' maturation on EI and involvements with the ball (IWBs). Sixteen male soccer players (mean ± SD; age 13.5 ± 0.7 years, height 164 ± 7 cm, and weight 51.8 ± 8 kg) completed 2 bouts of 3 vs. 3 (SSG3), 4 vs. 4 (SSG4), and 5 vs. 5 (SSG5) training. Exercise intensity was measured using heart rate and expressed as a percentage of maximal heart rate (%MHR). Technical actions were quantified from video recordings. Maturation stage was determined with the Tanner scale. Exercise intensity in SSG3 (89.8 ± 2%MHR) was higher (p < 0.003) than that in SSG5 (86.9 ± 3%MHR). The EI in the first set (86.8 ± 4%MHR) was lower (p < 0.001) than that in the second (89.1 ± 3%MHR) and in the third set (89.4 ± 3%MRH). No effects of number of players were found in IWB, passes, target passes, tackles, and headers. Significantly more crosses, dribbling, and shots on goal were observed during SSG3 compared to during SSG4 or SSG5 (p < 0.05). The typical error for EI, expressed as coefficient of variation, ranged from 2.2 to 3.4%. The reliability for the most frequent technical actions ranged from 6.8 to 19.3%. The level of maturation was not correlated with either EI or IWB. These results extend previous findings with adult players suggesting that SSGs can provide an adequate training stimulus for young players and are feasible for groups with heterogeneous maturation levels.

The Home Advantage (HA) has been an important object of study in world football. Several researchers have sought to quantify HA in the international soccer, but when it comes to Brazilian soccer, few studies have been devoted to research in this area. The present study aimed at comparing the HA in the Brazilian Championship Series A and B. All the games were analyzed in terms of wins, draws and defeats at home, in the seasons from 2003 to 2009 in both series A and series B. To quantify the HA, we used the method of recovery percentage points, proposed by POLLARD (1986). There was a greater HA in Series B (69 ± 2.3%) compared to Series A (65 ± 2.3) (p < 0.05). It was concluded that, in Series B of the Brazilian Championship, the factor "play at home" has greater advantage than in the Brazilian Series A season. A vantagem em jogar em casa (VC) vem sendo um importante objeto de estudo no futebol mundial. Vários pesquisadores procuram quantificar essa vantagem no futebol internacional, porém quando se trata de futebol brasileiro, poucos estudos se dedicaram à pesquisa nessa área. Devido a isso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo comparar a VC no Campeonato Brasileiro das Séries A e B. Foram analisadas todas as partidas nas condições de vitórias, empates e derrotas em casa, das temporadas 2003 a 2009, tanto na série A quanto na série B. Para quantificar a VC, foi utilizada a metodologia de aproveitamento percentual de pontos, proposto por POLLARD (1986). Foi encontrada uma VC maior na Série B (69 ± 2,3%) em relação à Série A (65 ± 2,3) (p < 0,05). Pôde-se concluir que, na Série B do Campeonato Brasileiro, o fator "jogar em casa" exerce maior vantagem em relação à Série A Brasileira nas temporadas analisadas.

Introduction Soccer is among the sports with the highest injury rate. A group of international experts from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association — FIFA’s Medical Assessment and Research Centre — have developed the “FIFA 11+”, a warm-up programme whose main goal is to reduce the risk of common injuries in both male and female soccer players. Objective To conduct a literature review in order to check the efficiency of the “FIFA 11 +” warm-up programme in preventing injuries in soccer players. Methods We conducted a systematic review of studies in the databases MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect and SPORTDiscus, using the following keywords in combination with one another: “injury”, “prevention” and “warm-up”. Results Five studies met the inclusion criteria. In four studies, the authors conclude that the “FIFA 11 +” warm-up programme is effective for preventing injuries in soccer players. In one study, this protective effect was not observed. Conclusion The analyzed studies indicate that the FIFA 11+ warm-up programme for the prevention of sports injuries show positive signs that the use of the programme may help reduce the incidence of injuries in girls aged 13–17 years. In a male children population the results are inconclusive and further research is needed. Introdução O futebol está entre os esportes com maior incidência de lesão quando comparado a outras modalidades esportivas. Um grupo de especialistas internacionais da Fédération Internationale de Football Association — FIFA’s Medical Assessment and Research Centre — desenvolveram o “The 11+”, um programa de aquecimento que possui como principal objetivo reduzir o risco de lesões mais comuns de jogadores de futebol de ambos os sexos. Objetivo Verificar, por meio de revisão de literatura, a eficácia do programa de aquecimento “The 11+” para prevenir lesões em atletas de futebol. Método Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática da literatura, utilizando as palavras-chave “Injury”, “prevention” e “warm-up”, em cruzamento, nas bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect e SPORTDiscus. Resultados Foram selecionados após processo de filtragem cinco estudos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, em quatro estudos os autores concluem que o programa de aquecimento “The 11+” é eficiente para prevenir lesões em atletas de futebol e em um estudo não observou-se o efeito protetor. Conclusão Tendo em vista os estudos analisados, o programa de aquecimento voltado para prevenção de lesões esportivas “The 11+” apresenta indícios positivos de que pode reduzir a taxa de incidência de lesões em meninas na faixa etária de 13 a 17 anos. Em uma população de meninos os resultados não são conclusivos, sendo necessários mais estudos.

Purpose The aim of the present study was to examine the variation in physical activity of elite soccer players within successive prolonged periods of fixture congestion over 5 months of competition during the competitive season 2011-2012. Methods Sixteen international players, classified into 6 positions (central defenders: CD; full-backs: FB; central defensive midfielders: CDM; wide midfielders: WM; central attacking midfielders: CAM; forwards: FW), were examined during the French First League, French Cup, and UEFA Champion's League matches. The total distance covered at light (18-21 km.h−1), high (>21-23 km.h−1), very high (>23-25 km.h−1), sub-maximal (>25-27 km.h−1), and maximal (>27 km.h−1) intensity running (IR) were measured and analysed using a semi-automatic match analysis system (Amisco Pro™). Results No differences were observed between congested and non-congested periods (two vs. one match a week, respectively) for the total distance covered at all the speed thresholds over 18 km.h−1, with no variation in physical fitness over the 5 studied months. Specifically to the playing positions, regardless of the congestion periods, FB and WM covered more distance than CDM over 21km.h−1; FB, WM and FW covered similar distances for all running intensities; and CD and CDM covered shorter distance during non-congested compared to congested periods (P

The identification of physiological loads imposed by soccer training or match play reveals essential information, which may help improve training and recovery strategies. Until today, the use of heart rate (HR) monitoring is not standardized in soccer. Thus, the aim of this review was to analyze, determine and compare the exercise intensity (EI) monitored by HR in professional, youth, and recreational soccer players during matches and training sessions using a meta-analysis. Heart rate is one of the most common physiological variables used to determine exercise internal training load. The mean EI recorded during competitive matches was described as 70-80% of VO2max or 80-90% of maximal heart rate (HRmax), independent of the playing level. With respect to HR training zones, approximately 65% of the total match duration is spent at intensity of 70-90% HRmax and rarely below 65% HRmax. However, although HRmax is mostly employed in the literature, monitoring EI should be expressed in relation to reserve heart rate, as it was described as a more reliable indicator of HR, allowing interindividual comparisons. The HR response according to the playing position indicates that midfielders are characterized by the highest EI, followed by forwards and fullbacks. Moreover, in the second half of the match, the EI is lower than that observed during the first half; this reduction could be correlated with the level of the player's physical conditioning. Consequently, coaches may favor the use of interval training or small-sided training games because these are shown to improve both aerobic capacity and the ability to repeat high-intensity actions. Small-sided games allow reaching similar HR responses to those found during interval training and match play but with greater heterogeneity values. Future investigations should include a larger sample of players with special reference to playing position and the expression of EI in percentage of the reserve heart rate, analyzing the possible intergender differences in HR response.

Os objetivos do presente estudo foram: i) avaliar a validade de constructo do Yo-Yo Intermittente Recovery Test Level 2 (Yo-Yo IR2) e do teste de Margaria (TM) com o desempenho em alta intensidade de exercício durante jogos oficiais em jogadores de futebol; ii) verificar a confiabilidade (teste-reteste) dos dois testes; iii) comparar os valores da frequência cardíaca máxima (FCM) obtida nesses protocolos e em jogo. Dezoito jogadores (média ± DP; idade 14 ± 0,8 anos, estatura 172 ± 9cm, peso 64,3 ± 8,5kg) pertencentes à mesma equipe foram avaliados em teste-reteste nos referidos protocolos e no percentual de tempo de permanência acima de 85% da FCM individual (PTP>85%FCM) em dois jogos oficiais do Campeonato Mineiro Infantil. Uma alta correlação foi encontrada entre o desempenho no Yo-Yo IR2 e PTP>85%FCM (rs = 0,71; p < 0,05). Não houve correlação estatisticamente significante entre o desempenho no TM e PTP>85%FCM (rs = 0,44; p = 0,06). O Yo-Yo IR2 se mostrou mais variável e menos reprodutível (CV = 11%; CCI [95% IC] = 0,38) do que TM (CV = 1%; CCI [95% IC] = 0,93). O maior valor de FCM (p < 0,001) ocorreu no jogo (202 ± 8bpm). A FCM no Yo-Yo IR2 (194 ± 4bpm) foi menor (p < 0,006) do que TM (197 ± 6bpm). Conclui-se que o Yo-Yo IR2 pode ser considerado mais válido para predizer a manutenção de alta intensidade de exercício em jogo que é uma importante medida de desempenho no futebol. Porém, há necessidade de padronização rigorosa entre os procedimentos de avaliação para estabilidade da medida. A FCM deve ser observada em diversas situações, principalmente competitiva, para possibilitar que ocorra o maior valor individual. The aims of the present study were: i) to evaluate the construct validity of Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 (Yo-Yo IR2) and of the Margaria Test (MT ) with performance in high intensity exercise during official games in soccer players; ii) to verify the reliability (test-retest) of the two tests; iii) to compare the values of the maximal individual heart rate (MhR) obtained in those protocols and in game. Eighteen players (mean ± SD; age 14 ± 0.8 years, height 172 ± 9 cm, weight 64.3 ± 8.5 kg) belonging to the same team were assessed in test-retest referred protocols and in the percentage of time spent above 85% of MhR (PTS>85%MhR) in two official games of the U-15 Championship. high correlation was found between performance in the Yo-Yo IR2 and PTS>85%MhR (rs=0.71; p85%MhR (rs=0.44; p=0.06). The Yo-Yo IR2 was more variable and less reproducible (CV= 11%; CCI [95% IC]=0.38) than MT (CV= 1%; CCI [95% IC]=0.93). The highest value of MhR (p

The objective of the present study was to evaluate home advantage in Brazilian soccer considering the interference of and interaction between game location and team quality in the percentage of wins and draws. Data from the Brazilian first-division soccer championship comprising a period of 10 years (1998-2007) were analyzed, for a total of 3,836 games. For club qualification the first deviation of the curve of Gauss was used in relation to the punctuation obtained. Clubs presenting a punctuation higher than this deviation were classified as high quality (HQ), clubs with an intermediate punctuation as average quality (AQ), and clubs with a lower puncutation as low quality (LQ). There was an effect of game location (p

Investigations in the physiological demands of soccer have identified that a significant percentage of energy production in match performance is provided through the aerobic pathways. It is therefore important to assess maximal oxygen uptake (VO2Max) of players in order to evaluate their aerobic fitness status and optimize their physical conditioning. However, it is also important to consider the variation of (VO2Max) profiles for soccer players, with differences having been identified in terms of playing position as well as playing style. This paper reviews the academic literature between 1996 and 2006 and reports on the methodologies employed and the values obtained for stature, body mass and (VO2Max) profiles of soccer players of different positions in professional Brazilian clubs at U-17, U-20 and First Division levels. Indirect measurements accounted for the majority of tests conducted at U-17 (70%) and U-20 (84.6%) levels whereas at First Division level almost half of the (VO2Max) evaluations were performed by direct measurements (47.8%). The mean (VO2Max) profiles obtained for outfield players in U-17 was 56.95 ± 3.60 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1), 58.13 ± 3.21 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1) for U-20 players and 56.58 ± 5.03 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1) for First Division players. In Brazil, the U-20 players appear to have highest VO2Max values, however the profiles reported for all outfield positions in U-17 and First Division levels are often lower than those reported for the same category of players from other countries. This may be a reflection of the style of play used in Brazilian soccer. This is further emphasized by the fact that the playing position with the highest VO2Max values was the external defenders whereas most findings from studies performed in European soccer indicate that midfielders require the highest VO2Max values. Key pointsPhysical and physiological differences exist between Brazilian soccer and European soccer.Players in Brazil appear to be shorter in stature, similar in body mass and have a lower overall aerobic capacity to their European equivalentsIn Brazil, there seems to be a physical development phase for players at U-20 level which prepares them for the demands at First Division level.

A vantagem em casa é um fenômeno que tem sido investigado em muitos confrontos esportivos. Contudo, dados do futebol brasileiro e comparações entre ligas são limitados na literatura. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi fazer um levantamento da vantagem em casa do Campeonato Brasileiro da primeira divisão (Série A), por meio do percentual de aproveitamento dos pontos em casa, e compará-la com as principais ligas nacionais do mundo nas temporadas de 2002/03 a 2006/07. Os resultados demonstraram que o Campeonato Brasileiro obteve vantagem em casa signifi cantemente maior (64,9 ± 2,2%; p

The behavioral demands and the particularities of the activities performed by the employees from offices at the Federal University of Viçosa can offer a series of negative factors for health. The interface with the computer and task characteristics give a great body and also cognitive demands, that allied to several factors can represent the appearance or worsening repetitive lesions and/or work related problems in the skeletal muscle (Cumulative Trauma Disorders) . This study aimed to diagnose the workers’ situation in relation to General Human Factors (GHF) and level of Health-Related Fitness (HRF)components: cardiorrespiratory; flexibility; strength and percent of body fat. The sample was composed by 46 workers. For both sexes, the GHF variables of higher significance were: “posture perception”; “sensation of local pains and those from some movement or task” in the back, shoulders and arms areas. Referring to HRF, both sexes presented unsatisfactory levels for trunk-hip flexibility “ and great part of men were classified as” below average “ in the push-up test” which are risk factors for CTD. Significant portion of them presented high percent of body fat (25,0%) or were “obese” (14,2%). In general terms of HFR, there should be interventions, such as physical activity and/or sports programs for this group of employees at this institution. It is suggested that actions should also be taken in the leisure activity offering, once it was shown that 39,2% of the men and 44,4% of the women have in TV their main leisure activity. RESUMO As exigências comportamentais e as particularidades das atividades desenvolvidas pelos funcionários de alguns setores caracterizados como escritórios da Universidade Federal de Viçosa podem estar potencializando uma série de fatores negativos para a saúde destes. A interface com o computador e a característica da tarefa levam a uma forte exigência física e também cognitiva, que aliadas a outros fatores poderá propiciar o surgimento e/ou agravamento de “lesões por esforço repetitivo” e/ou “distúrbios osteomusculares relacionados ao trabalho” (L.E.R./D.O.R.T). Este estudo buscou diagnosticar a situação destes trabalhadores com relação a Fatores Humanos Gerais (FHG) e o nível de Aptidão Física Relacionada à Saúde (AFRS) nos componentes: cardiorrespiratório; flexibilidade; força e percentual de gordura corporal. A amostra foi composta por 46 profissionais. Nos FHG, em ambos os sexos, as variáveis de maior significância foram: “percepção postural”; “sensação de dores localizadas e as de conseqüência de algum movimento ou tarefa” na região das costas, ombros e braços. Referindo-se a AFRS, ambos os sexos apresentaram níveis “insatisfatórios” para a saúde na “flexibilidade tronco-quadril” e uma grande parcela de homens classificou-se em “abaixo da média” no teste de “flexão/extensão de cotovelos”, fatores predisponentes para L.E.R./D.O.R.T. Grande parcela deles ainda apresentou o percentual de gordura corporal como “elevada” (25,0%) ou mesmo “obeso” (14,2%). Em termos gerais da AFRS devem ser feitas intervenções, tais como programas de atividade física e/ou esportivas para esta classe de funcionários nesta instituição de ensino superior. Sugere-se ações nas atividades de lazer, onde foi constatado que 39,2% dos homens e 44,4% das mulheres tem na televisãosua principal atividade de lazer.