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Background: Basketball players rely on their lower limb strength for speed and agility. Therefore, it is important for strength and conditioning coaches to seek methods to assess and develop lower limb strength. Objectives: This study aimed to identify tests and variables used to assess lower body strength among elite basketball players and to provide normative values for the commonly used strength tests. Methods: A review of PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute cross-sectional and cohort checklists. Results: Among the twelve reviewed studies, seven strength tests and five outcome variables were used. The most frequently used lower limb strength tests were the back squat (nine studies) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) (three studies), both reporting one repetition maximum (1RM) and peak force metrics. The most frequently used lower limb strength test was the back squat among males and IMTP among females. Conclusions: Among elite basketball players, the back squat 1RM is the most used lower limb strength test. However, across studies, a large variability was evidenced, which suggests that lower limb testing procedures are heterogeneous in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the reference base of anthropometric parameters on a sample of elite athletes is one of the foundations of further research and forming a clearer picture of each sport and sports discipline. In this study, the aim was to describe the anthropometric and somatotype profiles of elite Finn class sailors and to determine the differences in the measured parameters between sailors at different levels of general competitive success. The subject sample included 57 Finn class sailors who competed at the open Finn European Championship. A set of 25 anthropometric variables were applied. The sailors were divided into three groups according to their level of general competitive success using World Sailing Rankings. Finn sailors had higher average values in almost all morphological characteristics when compared to the sailors in other Olympic classes. Considering the average values of somatotype categories, we determined that Finn sailors fit the endomorphic mesomorph somatotype category (3.94 ± 1.19 − 5.50 ± 1.19 − 1.63 ± 0.74). Significant differences were observed between more-successful, medium, and less-successful sailors in the variables of age, body mass, muscle mass, arm muscle mass, and endomorphy rating. These results indicate the possibility of selection processes and/or adaptation to sailing occurring in the Finn class. The anthropometric characteristics of Finn sailors compared to sailors in Olympic classes further "support" the Finn class being called the "heavy dinghy" male class. This study on anthropometric parameters, determined via a sample of top Finn sailors, may be of great help to coaches and young sailors when deciding on the selection of an adult sailing class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically fitness testing has been identified as a common but controversial physical education (PE)-for-health practice across the globe. Despite this, little is known about the current prevalence and implementation of fitness testing. This paper therefore reports on findings from a survey which gathered both quantitative and qualitative data to explore the 'if?', 'why?' and 'how?' of fitness testing and provide new insights into teachers' learning intentions, pedagogical practices, and attitudes towards it. The survey was distributed to PE departments in secondary schools across the UK, and responses were analysed and reported descriptively and thematically. Responses from 260 schools highlighted that fitness testing remains a common practice in PE, with 80% of PE teachers reporting it to feature in their curriculum. There was less consensus surrounding the 'why?' and 'how?' of testing, with variation evident in teachers' stated learning intentions, pedagogical practices, and attitudes. Despite its prevalence, PE teachers expressed concerns over negative pupil outcomes potentially arising from fitness testing, and over 60% of teachers were uncertain or agreed that fitness testing can have a negative impact on pupils' psychological health. Given the findings and the reported widespread prevalence of fitness testing, further research should explore pupils' perspectives, responses, and outcomes of fitness testing, including their motivational and emotional responses to testing. Working with teachers and encouraging them to critically reflect on the 'if?', 'why?' and 'how?' of fitness testing is recommended and will hopefully help to bridge the gap between research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses concerns surrounding the assessment of competence through various fitness tests in physical education, specifically assessments misaligning with the conceptualization of physical literacy. The study aimed to deductively analyze student assessment experiences with principles of self-determination theory, focusing on the role of competence in supporting autonomy. Particular instruments, such as the vertical jump and 30 m sprint tests, observed high levels of student preference and perceived significance. Interestingly, while the multistage fitness test was identified by students as a reliable indicator of physical fitness, it garnered limited student selection. While specific movement recommendations are not outlined, the findings underscore several noteworthy considerations. Notably, various factors influence student choices in student-selected fitness assessments, and purpose-driven fitness assessments can contribute to student motivation. The study's insights provide valuable guidance for structuring physical education programs to foster engagement and autonomy among students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To map and summarise the sports coaches' and support staff's perspectives on athlete monitoring to explore the breadth of literature, identify knowledge gaps and inform future research. Design: Scoping review based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Methods: SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, and Embase databases were searched in English until 6 September 2022. The inclusion criteria were (1) coach(es) and/or support staff were explicitly questioned about their knowledge, perceptions, understanding, opinions, and/or applied practice of athlete monitoring; (2) results could be directly attributed to coach(es) and/or support staff; (3) primary research projects that are available as full-text. Exclusion criteria were applied for grey literature. The data were extracted into a custom-made data charting spreadsheet. Results: From the 4381 identified records, 42 met the eligibility criteria. Almost all the studies were conducted within the Anglosphere and at the national or international level. The main reasons for coaches and support staff to implement athlete monitoring were to reduce injury and illness, inform the training program, and improve or maintain performance. While training load monitoring is generally seen as valuable the coaches and support staff acknowledged that there was no perfect scientific approach to monitoring athletes and believed it should be part of the bigger picture, emphasising communication. Conclusions: There has been a recent surge in research demonstrating that athlete monitoring extends beyond quantitative information and encompasses non-quantified subjective information. This further substantiates that coaches and support staff will remain central to athlete monitoring, even amidst the anticipated technological progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-exercise estimates of cardiorespiratory fitness hold great utility for epidemiological research and clinical practice. Older adults may yield the greatest benefit from fitness estimates due to limited capacity to undergo strenuous maximal exercise testing, however, few of the previously developed non-exercise equations are suitable for use in older adults. Thus, the current study developed a non-exercise equation for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults derived from the widely used International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. Participants were community-dwelling, cognitively unimpaired older adults aged 60-80 years (n = 92). They completed the IPAQ and underwent maximal exercise testing on a cycle ergometer. Stepwise linear regression was used to determine the equation in a randomly selected, sexbalanced, derivation subset of participants (n = 60), and subsequently validated using a second subset of participants (n = 32). Results: The final equation included age, sex, body mass index and leisure time activity from the IPAQ and explained 61% and 55% of the variance in the derivation and validation groups, respectively (standard error of estimates = 3.9, 4.0). Seventy-seven and 81% of the sample fell within ±1SD (5.96 and 6.28 ml·kg-1·min-1) of measured VO2peak for the derivation and validation subgroups. The current equation showed better performance compared to equations from Wier et al. (2006), Jackson et al. (1990), and Schembre & Riebe (2011), although it is acknowledged previous equations were developed for different populations. Conclusions: Using non-exercise, easily accessible measures can yield acceptable estimates of cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults, which should be further validated in other samples and examined in relation to public health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, many first responder (i.e., fire and police) organizations have had issues with recruitment. Changes to population demographics (e.g., reduced physical activity and increased obesity) have contributed to these recruitment challenges because more adults may not be fit enough to meet the minimum requirements for physically demanding occupations. Applicants to first responder job positions may solicit strength and conditioning coaches to help train them for entry fitness testing and academy training. Although the training principles for athletes have crossover to first responder trainees, several unique considerations must be understood by the coach so they can best prepare their trainee. This review will discuss some of the unique considerations for developing the physical fitness of first responder trainees. This includes understanding what entry fitness tests (if any) may be required and how this can vary across different organizations and states. The strength and conditioning coach should also understand how fitness training could be implemented at the training academy stage and what specific modalities may have a greater focus within their trainee's specific academy. The review will provide actionable information for the strength and conditioning coach who may have limited experience in the physical preparation of first responder trainees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were (i) to compare the sprint times between linear-sprint (LS) and curved-sprint (CS) tests of different radii, and (ii) to examine the relationships between sprint times in these tests in soccer players. Nineteen elite youth male soccer players (age, 18.6 ± 0.6 years) completed an LS test and three CS tests with different radii both from the left and the right side (11.15-m radius = CSwide, 9.15-m radius = CSmedium and 7.15-m radius = CSnarrow), each with a distance of 17 m. Differences in sprint times were examined using analysis of variance with Bonferroni-corrected pairwise comparisons and Cohen's d effect sizes (ES). Relationships between sprint times were determined by Pearson's product-moment correlations (r). Significantly lower sprint times were evident for LS compared to all three CS tests (p <.001, MD = 0.08–0.16 s, ES = 0.83–1.49), for CSwide compared to CSnarrow (p =.02, MD = 0.04 s, ES = 0.47) and for CSmedium compared to CSnarrow (p <.001, MD = 0.07 s, ES = 0.82). Very large correlations (p <.001, r = 0.75–0.80) were found between sprint times in LS and the three CS tests. Very large to nearly perfect correlations (p <.001, r = 0.79–0.91) were found within the three CS tests. Practitioners should be aware that sprint times are lower in LS compared to CS of different radii and that CS times are higher at narrower angles compared to wider angles. Given the high correlations within three CS tests, the application of only one CS (e.g., CSmedium) during a test battery may be sufficient if using different CS is not possible. Results of the correlation analysis also suggest that LS contributes to CS performance, however, to slightly different extents depending on the radius of the CS. Consequently, both LS and CS drills might be incorporated into sprint training practices of elite youth soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1) is often utilized to indirectly assess the cardiorespiratory fitness of team-sport athletes due to its proposed association with match-play high-speed running performance and predicted maximal oxygen uptake. No previous research has investigated the relationships between YYIR1 performances, actual oxygen uptake recorded during the YYIR1, and true all-out sprint kinetics (eg, maximal sprint speed, maximal force capacity, and maximal power output), which therefore served as the primary objective of this study. Objectives: To assess the true physiological kinetics ( V ˙ O 2 and heart-rate responses) during the YYIR1 and to evaluate the correlations between the physiological kinetics, sprint kinetics, and YYIR1 performance parameters. Methods: A total of 23 amateur male soccer players were recruited for the study (age 22.52 [2.86] y; height 1.75 [0.06] m; body mass 65.61 [8.43] kg). Each participant completed a YYIR1 and 2 all-out sprint tests. Results: Significant differences were observed between actual and predicted maximal oxygen-uptake values (Mdiff = 17.57 mL·kg−1·min−1, P <.001, r =.63). Shuttle distances showed statistically significant correlations with maximal sprint speed (r =.42, P =.044) and theoretic maximal speed (r =.44, P =.035). However, no other correlations with sprint kinetic parameters (eg, maximal force or power output) were observed. Conclusion: Practitioners should carefully consider the outcomes and utilities of the parameters derived from the YYIR1. The estimations of maximal oxygen uptake from shuttle performances as a proxy for cardiorespiratory fitness are not adequate. However, shuttle distances appear to be positively associated with all-out sprinting capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to use a robust statistical approach to examine whether physical fitness at entry influences performance changes between men and women undertaking British Army basic training (BT). Performance of 2 km run, seated medicine ball throw (MBT) and isometric mid‐thigh pull (MTP) were assessed at entry and completion of Standard Entry (SE), Junior Entry‐Short (JE‐Short), and Junior Entry‐Long (JE‐Long) training for 2350 (272 women) recruits. Performance change was analyzed with entry performance as a covariate (ANCOVA), with an additional interaction term allowing different slopes for courses and genders (p < 0.05). Overall, BT courses saw average improvements in 2 km run performance (SE: −6.8% [−0.62 min], JE‐Short: −4.6% [−0.43 min], JE‐Long: −7.7% [−0.70 min]; all p < 0.001) and MBT (1.0–8.8% [0.04–0.34 m]; all p < 0.05) and MTP (4.5–26.9% [6.5–28.8 kg]; all p < 0.001). Regression models indicate an expected form of "regression to the mean" whereby test performance change was negatively associated with entry fitness in each course (those with low baseline fitness exhibit larger training improvements; all interaction effects: p < 0.001, ηp2$$ {\eta}_{\mathrm{p}}^2 $$ > 0.006), particularly for women. However, when matched for entry fitness, men displayed considerable improvements in all tests, relative to women. Training courses were effective in developing recruit physical fitness, whereby the level of improvement is, in large part, dependent on entry fitness. Factors including age, physical maturity, course length, and physical training, could also contribute to the variability in training response between genders and should be considered when analyzing and/or developing physical fitness in these cohorts for future success of military job‐task performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Concerns are sometimes raised by police applicants undertaking physical fitness testing that they were unfamiliar with the test requirements which in turn negatively impacted their performance. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a single day physical test training session on physical fitness scores of police candidates. METHODS: The sample consisted of female police candidates (n = 133) who attended a pre-academy training session. On the first day of pre-training, candidates' physical fitness was measured following official assessment day protocols. Measures included maximal handgrip strength, number of push-ups in 10 sec (PU), number of sit-ups in 30 sec (SU), standing long jump (SLJ), Abalakow jump test (AJ), 12 min Cooper running test (CT), and a motor educability test (ME). After the assessment, the overseeing UCIPS staff provided a detailed test skills briefing to candidates (e.g., common mistakes made during testing, how test performance could be improved, etc.). Immediately after the briefing, candidates performed the tests once again. Differences between results were measured using a paired samples t-test with significance set at 0.05. RESULTS: Paired sample t-tests determined significant (p < 0.001), large (Rank-Biserial Correlation = 1.00), improvements in physical fitness scores during the second assessment following familiarisation and feedback on test performance. CONCLUSION: Pre-academy training may be effective in improving candidates' physical fitness scores, in most tests, prior to the official assessment for the enrolment to police studies. Thus, to optimise initial candidate scores and opportunities for successful enlistment, police agencies may benefit from providing pre-assessment training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Internationally 18% of youth are obese. Fitness testing can be used to establish fitness surveillance, which can inform policy and targeted interventions aimed at addressing obesity. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight, obesity, and low fitness in Idaho school‐aged youth through a pilot study. METHODS: A convenience sample of 13 teachers from 11 north Idaho rural schools collected FitnessGram fitness data: body composition (body mass index [BMI]), aerobic capacity (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run [PACER] test), muscular endurance (curl up), strength (pushup), and flexibility (sit and reach). RESULTS: A total of 761 students (aged 9‐18 years) from grades 3&5, 7, and 9 to 12 participated in the study. Approximately 24% of 3&5 and 22% of 7th, and 12% of 9 to 12th‐grade students were categorized as Needs Improvement/Health Risk by FitnessGram standards for BMI. Similarly, approximately 25% of 3&5, and 22% of 7 and 9 to 12th‐grade students were considered Needs Improvement/Health Risk for PACER. IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: Results from fitness testing can provide school and public health representatives with a "needs assessment" of student health that can be used to help develop policies and practices to improve student health and wellbeing. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a model for statewide annual fitness testing surveillance and reporting within K‐12 public school physical education classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Training and assessment of agility is often prioritised by soccer coaches and practitioners aiming to develop multi-directional speed. Although the importance of agility is advocated throughout childhood and adolescence, limited data evidence agility performance at different stages of adolescence. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in multi-directional speed performance in youth soccer players spanning an entire soccer academy. A total of 86 male junior-elite soccer players volunteered to participate. Anthropometric data were collected, alongside performance data from a battery of physical tests including sprinting, jumping, change of direction, reaction time, and agility. Bayesian models using log-likelihoods from posterior simulations of parameter values displayed linear or curvilinear relationships between both chronological and biological age and performance in all tests other than agility and reaction time. For agility and reaction time tests, performance improved until ~14 years of age or the estimated age of peak height velocity whereby arrested development in performance was observed. Our results demonstrate that while most performance skills improve as chronological or biological age increases, measures of agility and reaction time may not. These findings support the notion that agility performance is complex and multifaceted, eliciting unique, challenging physical demands and non-linear development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionNon-exercise estimates of cardiorespiratory fitness hold great utility for epidemiological research and clinical practice. Older adults may yield the greatest benefit from fitness estimates due to limited capacity to undergo strenuous maximal exercise testing, however, few of the previously developed non-exercise equations are suitable for use in older adults. Thus, the current study developed a non-exercise equation for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults derived from the widely used International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).MethodsThis study was a secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. Participants were community-dwelling, cognitively unimpaired older adults aged 60–80 years (n = 92). They completed the IPAQ and underwent maximal exercise testing on a cycle ergometer. Stepwise linear regression was used to determine the equation in a randomly selected, sex-balanced, derivation subset of participants (n = 60), and subsequently validated using a second subset of participants (n = 32).ResultsThe final equation included age, sex, body mass index and leisure time activity from the IPAQ and explained 61% and 55% of the variance in the derivation and validation groups, respectively (standard error of estimates = 3.9, 4.0). Seventy-seven and 81% of the sample fell within ±1SD (5.96 and 6.28 ml·kg−1·min−1) of measured VO2peak for the derivation and validation subgroups. The current equation showed better performance compared to equations from Wier et al. (2006), Jackson et al. (1990), and Schembre & Riebe (2011), although it is acknowledged previous equations were developed for different populations.ConclusionsUsing non-exercise, easily accessible measures can yield acceptable estimates of cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults, which should be further validated in other samples and examined in relation to public health outcomes.

Purpose: Along with past performance, professional teams consider physical fitness and physiological potential in determining the value of prospective draft picks. The National Hockey League (NHL) Combine fitness results have been examined for their ability to predict draft order, but not bona fide hockey performance. Therefore, we sought to identify the relationships of combine fitness test results to short- and long-term NHL performance. Methods: During NHL Combine fitness testing (1994–2007), a standardized battery of tests was conducted. Player performance (1995–2020) was quantified using career cumulative points, time on ice, transitional period to playing in the NHL, and NHL career length. Forward and defensive positions were considered separately. Goalies were not considered. Stepwise linear regression analysis was used to identify fitness variables that predict NHL success. Results: Overall models ranged in their predictive ability from 2% to 16%. The transitional period was predicted by peak leg power and aerobic capacity ( V ˙ O 2 max ; forwards, R2 =.03, and defense, R2 =.06, both P <.01). Points and time on ice within seasons 1 to 3 were predicted by peak leg power and V ˙ O 2 max for forwards and defense (R2 =.02–.09, P <.01). Among players accumulating 10 NHL seasons, cumulative points were inversely related to upper-body push-strength-related variables in forwards (R2 =.11) and defense (R2 =.16; both P <.01). Conclusions: The NHL Combine fitness testing offers meaningful data that can inform the likelihood of future success. Peak leg power and V ˙ O 2 max predict league entry and early career success. Counterintuitively, upper-body strength is inversely related to long-term performance, which may offer insight into recruitment strategies, player development, or differential team roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Basketball players rely on their lower limb strength for speed and agility. Therefore, it is important for strength and conditioning coaches to seek methods to assess and develop lower limb strength. Objectives: This study aimed to identify tests and variables used to assess lower body strength among elite basketball players and to provide normative values for the commonly used strength tests. Methods: A review of PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute cross-sectional and cohort checklists. Results: Among the twelve reviewed studies, seven strength tests and five outcome variables were used. The most frequently used lower limb strength tests were the back squat (nine studies) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) (three studies), both reporting one repetition maximum (1RM) and peak force metrics. The most frequently used lower limb strength test was the back squat among males and IMTP among females. Conclusions: Among elite basketball players, the back squat 1RM is the most used lower limb strength test. However, across studies, a large variability was evidenced, which suggests that lower limb testing procedures are heterogeneous in this population.

This study addresses concerns surrounding the assessment of competence through various fitness tests in physical education, specifically assessments misaligning with the conceptualization of physical literacy. The study aimed to deductively analyze student assessment experiences with principles of self-determination theory, focusing on the role of competence in supporting autonomy. Particular instruments, such as the vertical jump and 30 m sprint tests, observed high levels of student preference and perceived significance. Interestingly, while the multistage fitness test was identified by students as a reliable indicator of physical fitness, it garnered limited student selection. While specific movement recommendations are not outlined, the findings underscore several noteworthy considerations. Notably, various factors influence student choices in student-selected fitness assessments, and purpose-driven fitness assessments can contribute to student motivation. The study’s insights provide valuable guidance for structuring physical education programs to foster engagement and autonomy among students.

Purpose: To compare the physical qualities between academy and international youth rugby league (RL) players using principal component analysis. Methods: Six hundred fifty-four males (age = 16.7 [1.4] y; height = 178.4 [13.3] cm; body mass = 82.2 [14.5] kg) from 11 English RL academies participated in this study. Participants completed anthropometric, power (countermovement jump), strength (isometric midthigh pull; IMTP), speed (10 and 40 m speed), and aerobic endurance (prone Yo-Yo IR1) assessments. Principal component analysis was conducted on all physical quality measures. A 1-way analysis of variance with effect sizes was performed on 2 principal components (PCs) to identify differences between academy and international backs, forwards, and pivots at under 16 and 18 age groups. Results: Physical quality measures were reduced to 2 PCs explaining 69.4% of variance. The first PC (35.3%) was influenced by maximum and 10-m momentum, absolute IMTP, and body mass. Ten and forty-meter speed, body mass and fat, prone Yo-Yo, IMTP relative, maximum speed, and countermovement jump contributed to PC2 (34.1%). Significant differences (P <.05, effect size = −1.83) were identified between U18 academy and international backs within PC1. Conclusion: Running momentum, absolute IMTP, and body mass contributed to PC1, while numerous qualities influenced PC2. The physical qualities of academy and international youth RL players are similar, excluding U18 backs. Principal component analysis can reduce the dimensionality of a data set and help identify overall differences between playing levels. Findings suggest that RL practitioners should measure multiple physical qualities when assessing physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To confirm whether peak aerobic capacity determined during laboratory testing could be replicated during an on-court field-based test in wheelchair rugby players. Methods: Sixteen wheelchair rugby players performed an incremental speed-based peak oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O 2 peak) test on a motorized treadmill (TM) and completed a multistage fitness test (MFT) on a basketball court in a counterbalanced order, while spirometric data were recorded. A paired t test was performed to check for systematic error between tests. A Bland–Altman plot for V ˙ O 2 peak illustrated the agreement between the TM and MFT results and how this related to the boundaries of practical equivalence. Results: No significant differences between mean V ˙ O 2 peak were reported (TM: 1.85 [0.63] vs MFT: 1.81 [0.63] L·min−1; P =.33). Bland–Altman plot for V ˙ O 2 peak suggests that the mean values are in good agreement at the group level; that is, the exact 95% confidence limits for the ratio systematic error (0.95–1.02) are within the boundaries of practical equivalence (0.88–1.13) showing that the group average TM and MFT values are interchangeable. However, consideration of the data at the level of the individual athlete suggests that the TM and MFT results were not interchangeable because the 95% ratio limits of agreement either coincide with the boundaries of practical equivalence (upper limit) or fall outside (lower limit). Conclusions: Results suggest that the MFT provides a suitable test at a group level with this cohort of wheelchair rugby players for the assessment of V ˙ O 2 peak (range 0.97–3.64 L·min–1), yet caution is noted for interchangeable use of values between tests for individual players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the reference base of anthropometric parameters on a sample of elite athletes is one of the foundations of further research and forming a clearer picture of each sport and sports discipline. In this study, the aim was to describe the anthropometric and somatotype profiles of elite Finn class sailors and to determine the differences in the measured parameters between sailors at different levels of general competitive success. The subject sample included 57 Finn class sailors who competed at the open Finn European Championship. A set of 25 anthropometric variables were applied. The sailors were divided into three groups according to their level of general competitive success using World Sailing Rankings. Finn sailors had higher average values in almost all morphological characteristics when compared to the sailors in other Olympic classes. Considering the average values of somatotype categories, we determined that Finn sailors fit the endomorphic mesomorph somatotype category (3.94 ± 1.19 − 5.50 ± 1.19 − 1.63 ± 0.74). Significant differences were observed between more-successful, medium, and less-successful sailors in the variables of age, body mass, muscle mass, arm muscle mass, and endomorphy rating. These results indicate the possibility of selection processes and/or adaptation to sailing occurring in the Finn class. The anthropometric characteristics of Finn sailors compared to sailors in Olympic classes further “support” the Finn class being called the “heavy dinghy” male class. This study on anthropometric parameters, determined via a sample of top Finn sailors, may be of great help to coaches and young sailors when deciding on the selection of an adult sailing class.

BackgroundLow physical fitness (PF) levels during childhood affect healthy growth and development, and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Physical education standards exist for nearly all states in the United States, but evaluation of PF in youth has yet to be systematic, reproducible, and harmonized. The purpose of this project was to describe publicly available data of school-based PF testing (SB-PFT).MethodsA list of state-mandated SB-PFT programs published by SHAPE 2016 was confirmed by contacting appropriate authorities. SB-PFT data were obtained through each state's department of education.ResultsSixteen states mandate SB-PFT, with 10 states providing publicly available data; 92% to 100% of states perform the pacer/mile, curl-up, and push-up; 54.2% to 78.5% of elementary and 44% to 66.5% of high-school youth are in the "healthy fitness zone" for aerobic capacity.ConclusionsSB-PFT provided PF data in children across the United States. The variability and inconsistency in reporting and in the values, however, raises questions about the current status of SB-PFT data and its utility in assessing PF in children. The critical nature of PF assessments is highlighted in the current COVID-19 pandemic, during which physical education has been curtailed, and emerging data demonstrate worsening of the already low levels of PF in youth.

The functional capacity of the cervical spine plays a central role in healthy living. The aim of this study was to examine the sex-related effect on cervical strength, range of motion (ROM), and the musculoskeletal pain profile in young physically active individuals. A total of 30 males and 30 females (21.53 ± 1.15 years old), without injury or chronic pain at the cervical joint, participated in the study. ROM (forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion-rotation), maximal isometric strength (forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion), and musculoskeletal pain were assessed using an electronic goniometer, a handheld dynamometer, and the Nordic questionnaire, respectively. The results revealed that: (a) females had higher ROM during extension and lateral flexion than males (p < 0.05); (b) males had higher absolute strength than females in all movement directions, and higher relative strength/body mass (at forward flexion) and flexion/extension ratio (p < 0.05); (c) ROM and strength were not significantly different between right and left sides (p > 0.05); (d) a large proportion (43.3%) of the participants had cervical pain; and (e) cervical strength showed a significant small negative correlation with pains (p < 0.05; r = −0.225 to −0.345). In conclusion, the derived reference values may be used by health and fitness professionals to extensively evaluate the cervical spine and to design specific exercise programs for injury prevention and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore variation-dependent differences in push-up and sit-up tests, as well as to identify the relationships between push-up and sit-up variations commonly performed among tactical personnel. Data from 41 (age = 21.1 ± 1.8 years, body mass = 89.5 ± 15.5 kg) male police cadets from one US-based training academy who performed the standard push-up (PUStandard), hand-release push-up (PUHand-release), standard sit-up (SUStandard), and hands behind the head sit-up (SUBehindHead) were examined. The maximum number of repetitions completed for each exercise was used for analyses with paired-samples t tests used to identify significant differences between outcome measures and effect sizes (ES) to determine change in magnitude. A significant difference, with a large ES, was found in the number of repetitions completed between the push-up variations (p < 0.001, ES = 0.75) and sit-up variations (p < 0.001, ES = 1.02). Performance in PUStandard was only able to explain 39% of the variation in PUHand-release (r = 0.62, r² = 0.39, p < 0.001), and performance in the SUStandard was only able to explain 29% of the variation in SUBehindHead (r = 0.54, r² = 0.29, p < 0.001). The current study suggests differences in performance capabilities may be dependent on the push-up and sit-up variations chosen for testing. Although it is still unclear whether one variation would be a better predictor of police work performance, agencies must give special attention to the overall construct validity of fitness tests for entry and retention of law enforcement officers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the prevalence of and approaches to monitoring health-related physical fitness (HRPF) in secondary school-based physical education programs. Methods: Physical education teachers (N = 327; 56.6% females) from 235 secondary schools (33.1% of national total) in the Republic of Ireland completed a survey designed specifically for the purposes of this study. Results: HRPF tests were used by 95.3% of teachers. A significant decline in the testing frequency was observed from the junior grades (age 13–15 years) to the senior grades (age 16–18 years) (p <.001). Just over half (51.7%) of the teachers discarded the test results after a single use. Less than one third of the teachers indicated that they shared the test results with the students' parents. The vast majority (87.0%) of the teachers agreed that the development of a digital platform would facilitate monitoring test results over time. Conclusions: HRPF testing is highly prevalent in secondary schools. More actions are needed to ensure that teachers use pedagogically sound student-centered approaches toward monitoring HRPF, with a focus on learning that may lead to more positive testing experiences for students. Consideration should be given to the development of digital platforms to facilitate monitoring and reporting HRPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We are currently observing a decline and deterioration in gross motor coordination in prepubertal children. This also results in deterioration of the overall movement performance. The purpose of this study was to determine sex- and age-specific levels and differences in gross motor coordination among prepubertal children. The somatic parameters included body weight (BW), height (BH), and body mass index (BMI). Methods: The sample included elementary school children aged 7-10 years, who were divided according to their age at annual intervals. A total of 381 pupils (103 seven-year-olds, 104 eight-year-olds, 78 nine-year-olds, and 96 ten-year-olds) from elementary schools in the Presov region participated in the educational experiment. To test the children's motor coordination, the Körper-Coordination-Test für Kinder, which provides a complex assessment of coordination abilities, was administered: walking backward, hopping for height, jumping sideways (JS; lower-body frequency ability), and moving sideways (MS; complex body coordination). To process the collected data, they were transformed to MQ scores. The statistical characteristics and methods included percentage distributions, arithmetic means and standard deviations, and analysis of variance to compare the four age categories. Results: mean body height and weight increments accounted for 9.54 cm and 7.75 kg between 7 and 10 years of age. Gender differences in the mean motor quotient were significant between boys and girls aged 9-10 years. Motor quotients in both boys and girls decreased with age, and the highest mean motor quotients were found in 7-year-old boys and girls. Of all KTK subtests, motor coordination levels in walking backward and hopping for height decreased, while motor coordination levels in moving sideways and jumping sideways increased as children got older. Conclusions: The findings point to the current level of gross motor skills in preadolescent children with age and sex differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement, analysis, and reporting of physical qualities within sport is vital for practitioners to support athlete development. However, several challenges exist to support this process (e.g., establishing comparative data, managing large data sets) within sport. This article presents 7 challenges associated with physical testing in sport and offers solutions to overcome them. These solutions are supported by a description of the Profiling Physical Qualities (ProPQ) tool. The ProPQ tool uses advanced data analysis, visualization, and interactive elements, to enhance stakeholders' use of data to optimize player development and coaching practices. The ProPQ is currently used across rugby league in England. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In the USA, 18% of school-aged young people are classified as obese, and rural populations appear to be particularly at risk. Achieving high levels of fitness reduces the risk of obesity and underlying health conditions. To better understand youth obesity trends and fitness levels, annual fitness testing ([FT], that is, surveillance) in schools has been recommended. Although many K–12 schools conduct FT, surveillance programmes that compile unified standardised test results are rare. Design: Qualitative design. Setting: Physical education teachers from 11 schools (n = 13; n = 4 men) participated in remote training about conducting FitnessGram FT. Methods: Data included two semi-structured interviews per teacher on experiences with distance fitness training, implementing FitnessGram, and data entry for annual surveillance. Results: Inductive analysis using axial and open coding identified four themes: (1) barriers prior to study, (2) study training, (3) implementation challenges and suggestions and (4) teacher feedback. Teachers had an interest in FT but lacked the recommended training and equipment needed to implement it annually. Conclusion: Teachers believed the training they received (as part of this study) prepared them to collect reliable and valid data, and that FT had benefits for their students and programmes. Every teacher expressed interest in reporting annual surveillance data. Efforts to train teachers for FT through virtual professional development may be a viable means of establishing a unified surveillance system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite recent updates to international normative values for physical fitness in young people, contemporary data sets from England are sparse with no published data available from the North East. We compared physical fitness in children from one primary school in North East England to International and European reference data, and other English regions. Methods: Eighty participants (mean age [SD]: 9.1 [0.6] y) completed a testing battery of 20-m shuttle run test, handgrip strength, standing broad jump, and sit-and-reach. Scores for each component were assessed against International or European age- and sex-specific centiles, then grouped into quintiles. Differences between our sample and European and English data sets were explored using z scores and t tests. Results: For all components, ≥58% of participants were classified as having "moderate" or lower levels. Twenty-meter shuttle run test performance was not substantially different compared with other English data sets. For handgrip and sit-and-reach, our sample scored significantly worse than South East children. Standing broad jump distance in girls, and handgrip in boys and girls, was significantly lower than North West equivalents. Conclusion: Physical fitness levels in primary school children from North East England are suboptimal, highlighting a need for large-scale monitoring studies to build on our preliminary findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The debate on whether kinesiology students should undergo fitness testing is controversial. Some are strong proponents of fitness testing, while others are in strong opposition. As advocates for fitness testing among kinesiology majors, we aimed to assess the fitness levels of Exercise Science and Physical Education Teacher Education majors and evaluate current physical education teacher education (PETE) fitness criterion. One hundred and sixteen participants (males N = 49; females N = 67) underwent health-related fitness assessments. 37% of males and 51% of females met PETE's fitness criteria. Both groups performed significantly better in body fat percentage and upper body strength than PETE's acceptable (average) standards; however, most were significantly lower than target (above average) standards. Presented are fitness passing criteria for PETE majors and fitness reporting that aids in improved fitness tracking and accountability. We also highlight the need for NASPE and SHAPE America to clearly define fitness expectations for PETE majors and encourage other kinesiology faculty to consider implementing fitness testing in their programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using this customized occupational-specific VO2max GXT simulates both on-the-job ambulatory movement and, with the addition of bunker gear, the physiological demands associated with the occupational tasks of structural firefighters. Objective: The aim of the study is to validate a customized V˙O2max Graded Exercise Test (GXT) protocol specifically to accommodate firefighters with different cardiovascular fitness levels. Methods: Career male firefighters (N = 15) completed 3 customized GXTs on a treadmill: 1 in athletic clothes and 2 in their bunker gear to determine maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max). Results: The on-duty task protocol was reliable, V˙O2max values of 40.2 ± 4.6 mL·kg·min−1 and 40.3 ± 5.3 mL·kg·min−1 between trials yielded an interclass correlation of 0.911 with a typical error of 1.48 mL·kg·min−1 and a coefficient of variation of 4.0%. The validity analysis indicated consistent maximal V˙O2 values for the GXTs yielding mean interclass correlation of 0.94 with typical error of 1.16 mL·kg·min−1 and a coefficient of variation of 2.9%. Conclusions: The customized GXT for structural firefighters has shown to be a reliable, valid, and applicable method of testing cardiovascular fitness in firefighters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to present reference standards for physical performance test outcomes relevant to elite female soccer players. We analysed mixed-longitudinal data (n = 1715 observations) from a sample of 479 elite youth and senior players as part of the English Football Association's national development programme (age range: 12.7 to 36.0 years). Semi-parametric generalized additive models for location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) estimated age-related reference centiles for 5-m sprinting, 30-m sprinting, countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) performance. The estimated reference centiles indicated that the median of the distribution of physical performance test scores varied non-linearly with advancing chronological age, improving until around 25 years for each performance variable. These are the first reference ranges for performance test outcomes in elite English female soccer players. These data can assist practitioners when interpreting physical test performance outcomes to track an individual's progress over time and support decision-making regarding player recruitment and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With advancing age, physical capacity gradually decreases which may lead to decreased work ability, if the physical work requirements remain the same. Examination of the importance of physical fitness for work ability among aging workers will help to find potential strategies to promote work ability in old age. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical fitness and work ability among aging workers. Methods: Aging workers (n = 288, mean age 62.5, 83% women) from the Finnish Retirement and Aging study underwent cardiorespiratory, muscular fitness and functional testing. Work ability was inquired on a scale 0–10 from poor to excellent. Association between physical fitness indicators and work ability was examined using ordinary least squares regression, taking into account age, gender, occupational status, heavy physical work, body mass index and accelerometer-measured daily total physical activity. Results: VO2peak, modified push-up test and maximal walking speed were positively associated with work ability (β = 0.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29–0.74, β = 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.66 and β = 0.23, 95% CI 0.07–0.39, respectively), while chair rise test time was inversely associated with work ability (β = −0.23, 95% CI −0.39–−0.06). No associations were found between hand grip strength or sit-up test and work ability. Conclusions: Cardiorespiratory fitness, upper body strength, and lower extremity function were positively associated with work ability. Good physical fitness may help to maintain work ability among aging workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper draws on two separate research projects, one with Black and Latinx youth in the United States and another with LGBTQ+ youth in New Zealand, to explore the affective experiences of young people with the FitnessGram® assessment. We specifically use affect theory through poetic inquiry to entangle interview data from young participants about their experiences with FitnessGram®. We then (re)present the data through poetic forms. We argue the turn to affect and poetic inquiry allows us, as researchers, to respond to dominant discourses around FitnessGram® (and young bodies) in critical and creative ways. And, we embrace the experimental, open-ended potential of poetic (re)presentation to bring awareness to the youths' experiences and to encourage others (researchers, educators, practitioners, policymakers) to engage differently as well. We hope, through such aesthetic forms, we can start to value the affects of FitnessGram® on youth and think divergently about this popular practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functional capacity of the cervical spine plays a central role in healthy living. The aim of this study was to examine the sex-related effect on cervical strength, range of motion (ROM), and the musculoskeletal pain profile in young physically active individuals. A total of 30 males and 30 females (21.53 ± 1.15 years old), without injury or chronic pain at the cervical joint, participated in the study. ROM (forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion-rotation), maximal isometric strength (forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion), and musculoskeletal pain were assessed using an electronic goniometer, a handheld dynamometer, and the Nordic questionnaire, respectively. The results revealed that: (a) females had higher ROM during extension and lateral flexion than males (p < 0.05); (b) males had higher absolute strength than females in all movement directions, and higher relative strength/body mass (at forward flexion) and flexion/extension ratio (p < 0.05); (c) ROM and strength were not significantly different between right and left sides (p > 0.05); (d) a large proportion (43.3%) of the participants had cervical pain; and (e) cervical strength showed a significant small negative correlation with pains (p < 0.05; r = −0.225 to −0.345). In conclusion, the derived reference values may be used by health and fitness professionals to extensively evaluate the cervical spine and to design specific exercise programs for injury prevention and rehabilitation.

COVID-19 caused a total halt in sport competition during 2020. The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes between pre- and post-lockdown competitive periods in the players’ workload variables in competition. Seventeen professional football players were monitored using a WIMU PRO® inertial device throughout the 2019-20 season. Anthropometric and physical fitness were assessed with the aim to relate possible associations between these characteristics and the workload changes in the pre- and post-lockdown periods. During the lockdown, players carried out an 8-week guided self-training. There was a general decrement in the players’ physical workload demands in competition, and the parameters related to high-intensity actions as accelerations and decelerations (-8.96% [ES: 0.64] and -11.04% [ES: 0.77] respectively; p < .05), Ind HSR (-35.57% [ES: 0.92]; p = .002), HMLD (-8.58% [ES: 0.66]; p = .016), PLOAD (-7.03% [ES: 0.54]; p = .047) and Vmax (-3.80% [ES: 0.65]; p = .016) can be highlighted. The results showed high negative correlations between match workload variables prior to the lockdown and the percentage of change in these variables after the lockdown period. Individual percentages of change showed high variability in players’ changes. Individual self-training programs should be reviewed to minimize the impact of a “detraining” period in players’ physical performance during possible new lockdown periods.

Purpose: We analyzed the evolution and pattern of heart rate (HR) during the 12-minute wheelchair propulsion field test (WPFT) and compared the peak HR (HRpeak) from the WPFT to the HRpeak obtained in the progressive cardiopulmonary exercise test on arm cranking ergometer (ACT). We aimed to determine if the field test detects the HRpeak consistently and could be used in clinical practice. Methods: Eleven wheelchair-using children and adolescents with myelomeningocele (aged 8-15 y) performed a maximal ACT and a 12-minute WPFT. HR was recorded continuously at rest, during each minute of the tests, and at recovery. Mixed analysis of variance was used to compare the variables at rest and peak. Bland--Altman plot and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient were used to show agreement between the tests. Results: During minute 2 of the WPFT, participants reached 73%-96% of the HRpeak values recorded in the ACT. From minutes 4 to 12, participants reached HRpeak values ranging 86%-109% of the values recorded in the ACT. There is agreement between the ACT and the WPFT tests. Conclusion: WPFT with minimal duration of 4 minutes may be an alternative tool to obtain HRpeak in children and adolescents with myelomeningocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bennett, H, Fuller, J, Milanese, S, Jones, S, Moore, E, and Chalmers, S. The relationship between movement quality and physical performance in elite adolescent Australian football players. J Strength Cond Res 36(10): 2824–2829, 2022—The assessment of movement quality is commonplace in competitive sport to profile injury risk and guide exercise prescription. However, the relationship between movement quality scores and physical performance measures is unclear. Moreover, whether improvements in these measures are associated remain unknown. Over a 4-year period, 918 individual elite adolescent Australian Rules Footballers completed the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and physical performance testing (5- and 20-m sprint, vertical jump, planned agility, and 20-m shuttle run test), allowing the analysis of relationships between FMS parameters and performance measures. In addition, 235 athletes completed testing over 2 consecutive years, allowing the analysis of relationships between changes in these outcomes. Small associations were observed between FMS composite score, hurdle step performance, in-line lunge performance, trunk stability push-up performance, rotary stability, and measures of speed, power, agility, and aerobic fitness (ρ = 0.071–0.238). Across consecutive seasons, significant improvements were observed in the deep squat subtest (d = 0.21), FMS composite score (d = 0.17), and 5- (d = 0.16) and 20-m sprint times (d = 0.39). A negative association between change in rotary stability and change in jump height (ρ = −0.236) from one season to the next was detected. Results suggest FMS scores have limited relationships with measures of performance in footballers. To optimize athletic performance, once acceptable movement capabilities have been established, training should not prioritize improving movement quality over improvements in strength, power, and change of direction ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soccer match play dictates that players possess well-rounded physical capacities. Therefore, player physical development plans must consider developing several fitness components simultaneously. Effective individualization of training is likely facilitated with appropriate player profiling; therefore, developing a time-efficient and informative testing battery is highly relevant for practitioners. Advances in knowledge and technology over the past decade have resulted in refinements of the testing practices used by practitioners working in professional male and female soccer. Consequently, a contemporary approach to test selection and data analysis has progressively been adopted. Furthermore, the traditional approach of using a testing battery in a single day may now be outdated for full-time players, with a flexible approach to the scheduling of testing perhaps more suitable and time efficient. Here, guidance on testing for maximal aerobic, submaximal aerobic, linear and change of direction speed, and stretch-shortening cycle performance (i.e., jump testing) are presented for male and female players, with emphasis on time-efficient tests, while facilitating effective individualized training prescription. Normative and meaningful change data are presented to aid decision making and provide a reference point for practitioners. Finally, a time-efficient approach to scheduling fitness testing is presented, which complements daily training outcomes of a weekly periodization approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mixed methods study aimed to assess the agreement between coaches ranking of youth rugby league players compared against objective physical performance data and gather coaches' subjective descriptions of their players performance. Five hundred and eight male rugby league players (U16 n = 255, U18 n = 253) completed a fitness testing battery of anthropometric and physical performance measures. Subsequently, 22 rugby (n = 11) and strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches (n = 11) ranked each player's physical qualities using a 4-point Likert scale (1 – top 25%; 2–25–50%; 3–50–75%; and 4 – bottom 25%) and described their performance. U16 S&C coaches displayed fair agreement when assessing players body mass (39.3%, κ = 0.20). U18 rugby coaches demonstrated fair agreement for strength and size (42.5%, κ = 0.23) and body mass (48.7%, κ = 0.31) whilst both U18 rugby and S&C coaches showed fair agreement levels for endurance (39.8%, κ = 0.25, 44.3%, κ = 0.29), respectively. Three higher-order themes were identified from coaches' descriptions of players including physical, rugby and attitude characteristics when evaluating performance. Overall, coaches cannot accurately assess players physical performance against fitness testing data. Though, findings suggest coaches adopt a multidimensional approach when evaluating players performance. Practitioners within talent development systems should utilise both objective and subjective assessments when making decisions regarding players performance. Highlights Rugby and S&C coaches cannot accurately assess all aspects of players physical performance. The greatest assessment agreement was for body mass, strength and size, and endurance, while the poorest were for strength, acceleration, and maximum speed. Rugby and S&C coaches considered rugby, physical and attitude attributes when evaluating players. Findings highlight the complex nature of physical profiling. Subjective and objective measures are required to provide an accurate description of players physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lockie, RG, Moreno, MR, and Dawes, JJ. A research note on relationships between the vertical jump and standing broad jump in law enforcement recruits: implications for lower-body power testing. J Strength Cond Res 36(8): 2326–2329, 2022—Jump testing is often used to infer lower-body power in law enforcement recruits. The vertical jump (VJ) is most common, but can be equipment-intensive. The standing broad jump (SBJ) also provides a measure of lower-body power, requires less equipment, and could be practical for training staff with limited resources. There has been no analysis of the relationships between the VJ and SBJ in law enforcement recruits to ensure they measure similar qualities. This research note investigated the relationships between the VJ and SBJ in recruits from one agency. The sample included 71 men and 23 women who completed the VJ and SBJ before academy. Independent samples t -tests compared the sexes in both jump tests. Pearson's correlations calculated relationships between the VJ and SBJ variables (VJ height, height relative to body mass, peak power and power-to-body mass ratio calculated from VJ height; SBJ distance and distance relative to body mass) in all recruits combined, men, and women. Male recruits outperformed females in all absolute VJ and SBJ variables (p < 0.001), except for relative-to-body mass VJ and SBJ. There were large significant relationships between most jump variables for all recruits combined, men, and women (r = 0.371–0.684). Relative VJ and SBJ did not significantly relate (r = 0.123–0.203). There were generally strong relationships between the VJ and SBJ in recruits, although the relative data indicated some differences in qualities assessed by each jump. Nonetheless, training staff could use the SBJ as a lower-body absolute power indicator, especially with limited resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: To determine whether vitamin D supplementation influences grip strength, explosive leg power, cardiorespiratory fitness and risk of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in South African schoolchildren., Methods: Substudy (n=450) in Cape Town schoolchildren aged 8-11 years nested within a phase 3 randomised placebo-controlled trial (ViDiKids). The intervention was weekly oral doses of 10 000 IU vitamin D 3 (n=228) or placebo (n=222) for 3 years. Outcome measures were serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 (25(OH)D 3 ) concentrations, grip strength, standing long jump distance, peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak , determined using 20 m multistage shuttle run tests) and the proportion of children with EIB, measured at end-study., Results: 64.7% of participants had serum 25(OH)D 3 concentrations <75 nmol/L at baseline. At 3-year follow-up, children randomised to vitamin D versus placebo had higher mean serum 25(OH)D 3 concentrations (97.6 vs 58.8 nmol/L, respectively; adjusted mean difference 39.9 nmol/L, 95% CI 36.1 to 43.6). However, this was not associated with end-study differences in grip strength, standing long jump distance, VO 2peak or risk of EIB., Conclusion: A 3-year course of weekly oral supplementation with 10 000 IU vitamin D 3 elevated serum 25(OH)D 3 concentrations in South African schoolchildren but did not influence muscle strength, exercise capacity or risk of EIB., Competing Interests: ARM declares receipt of funding in the last 36 months to support vitamin D research from the following companies who manufacture or sell vitamin D supplements: Pharma Nord, DSM Nutritional Products, Thornton & Ross and Hyphens Pharma. ARM also declares receipt of vitamin D capsules for clinical trial use from Pharma Nord, Synergy Biologics and Cytoplan; support for attending meetings from Pharma Nord Ltd and Abiogen Pharma; receipt of consultancy fees from DSM Nutritional Products and Qiagen; receipt of a speaker fee from the Linus Pauling Institute; participation on Data and Safety Monitoring Boards for the VITALITY trial (Vitamin D for Adolescents with HIV to reduce musculoskeletal morbidity and immunopathology, Pan African Clinical Trials Registry ref PACTR20200989766029) and the Trial of Vitamin D and Zinc Supplementation for Improving Treatment Outcomes Among COVID-19 Patients in India (ClinicalTrials.gov ref NCT04641195) and unpaid work as a Programme Committee member for the Vitamin D Workshop., (Copyright © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY. Published by BMJ.)

Objective: To determine whether weekly oral vitamin D supplementation influences grip strength, explosive leg power, cardiorespiratory fitness or spirometric lung volumes in Mongolian schoolchildren., Methods: Multicentre, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted in children aged 6-13 years at baseline attending 18 schools in Ulaanbaatar. The intervention was weekly oral doses of 14 000 IU vitamin D 3 (n=4418) or placebo (n=4433) for 3 years. Outcome measures were grip strength, standing long jump distance and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations (determined in all participants), peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak , determined in a subset of 632 participants using 20 m multistage shuttle run tests) and spirometric outcomes (determined in a subset of 1343 participants)., Results: 99.8% of participants had serum 25(OH)D concentrations <75 nmol/L at baseline, and mean end-study 25(OH)D concentrations in children randomised to vitamin D versus placebo were 77.4 vs 26.7 nmol/L (mean difference 50.7 nmol/L, 95% CI 49.7 to 51.4). However, vitamin D supplementation did not influence mean grip strength, standing long jump distance, VO 2peak , spirometric lung volumes or peak expiratory flow rate, either overall or within subgroups defined by sex, baseline 25(OH)D concentration <25 vs ≥25 nmol/L or calcium intake <500 vs ≥500 mg/day., Conclusion: A 3-year course of weekly oral supplementation with 14 000 IU vitamin D 3 elevated serum 25(OH)D concentrations in Mongolian schoolchildren with a high baseline prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. However, this intervention did not influence grip strength, explosive leg power, peak oxygen uptake or spirometric lung volumes, either overall or in subgroup analyses., Trial Registration Number: NCT02276755., Competing Interests: ARM declares receipt of funding in the last 36 months to support vitamin D research from the following companies who manufacture or sell vitamin D supplements: Pharma Nord, DSM Nutritional Products, Thornton & Ross and Hyphens Pharma. ARM also declares receipt of vitamin D capsules for clinical trial use from Pharma Nord, Synergy Biologics and Cytoplan; support for attending meetings from Pharma Nord and Abiogen Pharma; receipt of consultancy fees from DSM Nutritional Products and Qiagen; receipt of a speaker fee from the Linus Pauling Institute; participation on Data and Safety Monitoring Boards for the VITALITY trial (Vitamin D for Adolescents with HIV to reduce musculoskeletal morbidity and immunopathology, Pan African Clinical Trials Registry ref PACTR20200989766029) and the Trial of Vitamin D and Zinc Supplementation for Improving Treatment Outcomes Among COVID-19 Patients in India (ClinicalTrials.gov ref NCT04641195); and unpaid work as a Programme Committee member for the Vitamin D Workshop. All other authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY. Published by BMJ.)

Background: Physical fitness is a key tenet of military organisations worldwide. Specifically, many consider aerobic fitness (AF) an essential physical attribute for ensuring optimal military performance and readiness. However, the intricate relationship between AF and various facets of military job performance necessitates comprehensive review to ascertain the appropriateness and effectiveness of its assessment., Objective: This narrative review aims to describe the relationship between AF and factors influencing individual military performance and readiness, and explores the implications of the enforcement of in-service, generic AF test standards in military populations., Methods: Databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) were searched for all relevant published peer-reviewed literature as at August 2023., Results: Inconsistent associations were found between AF and outcomes influencing individual military performance (physical capabilities, cognitive capabilities, presenteeism and productivity, resilience, and technical/tactical capabilities) and readiness (mental health and wellbeing and physical health). Consequently, the level of AF needed for acceptable or optimal military performance remains uncertain., Conclusions: AF is a cornerstone of health and performance, yet linking generic AF test standards to job performance is complex, with multiple factors interacting to influence outcomes. From existing literatures, there does not appear to be a specific level of AF at, and/or above, which acceptable military performance is achieved. As such, the enforcement of and emphasis on in-service, pass/fail, generic AF test standards in military populations is questionable and requires thoughtful re-evaluation. Role/task-specific AF should be assessed through evidence-based PES and the use of generic AF tests limited to the monitoring and benchmarking of health-related fitness.

Introduction: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in young adulthood is a determinant of chronic disease risk. To better understand whether CRF might also behave as a modifiable risk factor, we examined the associations between longitudinal changes in 2.4 km run times and health outcomes in a cohort of healthy young men., Methods: Our dataset comprised individual run times and health outcomes captured in four national registries. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the association between baseline run times and relative hazards of first major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality (ACM). Relative hazards associated with longitudinal change in run times were estimated using models that were adjusted for run-time at baseline., Results: The study sample comprised 148 825 healthy men ages 18-34 years who had undergone at least two routine fitness tests that were 5-9 years apart. During 1 294 778 person-years of follow-up, we observed 1275 first MACE and 764 ACM events occurring at mean ages of 43.2 (SD 6.0) years and 39.2 (SD 6.6) years, respectively. A 1% increase in run-time per annum was associated with a 1.13 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.16) times greater hazard of first MACE and a 1.06 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.10) times greater hazard of ACM. The association between longitudinal change in run times and first MACE was preserved in sensitivity analyses using models adjusted for body mass index at baseline., Conclusion: Among men under the age of 35 years, longitudinal change in run times was associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease two decades onwards., (Copyright © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

In rugby union, physical characteristics may partially contribute to long-term career progression, especially during adolescence. Therefore, the primary purpose of the study was to evaluate Italian regional rugby union academy players' (i.e., under-18) anthropometric and physical characteristics during a competitive season. Body mass, height, upper- and lower-body maximal strength, sprint, and high-intensity running ability were assessed in 29 elite players (backs, n = 13, forwards, n = 16). A mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures showed that backs were shorter (ES = 0.59), lighter (ES = 0.94), stronger relative to body mass (bench press; ES = 0.60; deadlift; ES = 0.63; clean ES = 0.63; rowing ES = 0.67), and fitter (shuttle run max; ES = 0.38; shuttle run tot; ES = 0.79) than forwards. However, the forwards achieved greater sprint momentum (initial sprint momentum; ES = 0.97; maximal sprint momentum; ES = 0.98). During the season, players changed in stature, upper-body maximal strength, jumping, and high intensity running (p < 0.05), but not in body weight or lower-body maximal strength (p > 0.05). Maximal strength improved in the first part of the season, whereas jumping and sprinting performances increased in the last part of the season. Therefore, these findings highlight the importance of regularly monitoring the physical development in a long-term perspective, even suggesting that physiological adaptations are heterochronic between positional roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ACSM/CESP push-up test exemplifies the limiting nature of the gender binary in fitness. Males perform the standard push-up (from toes) while females perform the modified push-up (from knees), even if capable of multiple standard push-ups. Differences in upper body strength are used to justify the test protocol. Though the load difference between modified and standard positions is substantially less than the gender strength gap. Additionally, current fitness ratings are over 30 years old. The purpose of this study was to develop a new standard push-up rating scale for college-age females. Cis-female college students (n = 72) were recruited to perform maximal repetitions in the modified and standard positions. Health history and physical activity information was gathered prior to the test. Trained research assistants provided standardized warm-up, modelled correct form, and administered the tests. Order of the tests was randomized and there was at least 48 hours between test days. Mean push-ups in the standard position was 9 (8.87) and 17.5 (11.76) in the modified position. Participants who resistance train did significantly more repetitions of each. Linear regression was used to develop an equation to predict standard pushup repetitions from modified repetitions. The equation was applied to the current repetition ranges for each fitness category, and a new standard scale was developed. The new scale ratings are similar to the Revised Push-up but lower than the Fitnessgram® Healthy Zone. The modified or "girl" push-up contributes to gender stereotypes about muscular fitness. Providing females with the option to be graded on the standard push-up is a step to reducing gender bias in fitness. Future research is needed to validate this scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firefighters are required to perform a wide array of physically demanding job tasks, such as forcible entry, charged hose advances and victim extractions. An adequate level of muscular strength and power are required to successfully perform these tasks. The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in stronger and weaker firefighters in measures of power. Archived data for twenty-seven (age = 34.3 ± 7.9 yr, body height = 176.3 ± 7.2 cm, body mass = 89.4 ± 15.7 kg) full-time firefighters were analyzed. Participants were placed into one of two groups [i.e., stronger (HIGH) (n = 13) and weaker (LOW) (n = 14)], based on their relative isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTPr) performance. Power measures included counter-movement jump (CMJ) height, and peak anaerobic power in watts (PAPW). Significant mean score differences were not discovered between HIGH and LOW IMTPr groups on any measures of lower-body power. Moderate positive correlations were observed between IMTP and CMJ (r = .519; p = .01). This study identified significant differences in absolute and relative strength between firefighters who were able to lift at least 2.0x their bodyweight versus those who were not. Additionally, absolute strength (as assessed by the IMTP) was significantly and positively correlated to CMJ height when compared to their weaker counterparts. These findings may provide insight into approaches for improving occupational performance and durability through the physical development of firefighters via strength and conditioning programs which focus on developing absolute strength, relative strength, and power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]