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We intend to develop an intervention program based on sports for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) to analyze its effects on physical fitness, quality of life (QoL), and well-being. The convenience sample will consist of at least 24 participants aged between 18 and 65, of both sexes, who are institutionalized with a previous diagnosis of IDD and no associated comorbidities (e.g., visual impairment or cerebral palsy). The participants will be divided into two groups: (i) the experimental group and (ii) the control group. The experimental group will have a weekly session, lasting 60 min, for 36 weeks. There will be a baseline assessment, a final assessment, and a follow-up assessment (three months after the end of the program). The results of this study are intended to contribute to the development of more assertive community interventions, based on sports, for the benefit of this population.

This study aimed to achieve two primary objectives. Firstly, to compare physical fitness levels based on sex, age groups, and body composition. Secondly, to examine physical fitness of the older adults against criterion-referenced fitness standard values using a representative sample from the district of Leiria in Portugal, a region undergoing exponential population growth, including a rise in the elderly population. Data from cross-sectional assessments of the Portuguese older adult community living in the Municipality of Leiria from 2014 to 2022 were collected. This study comprised a sample of 664 community-dwelling older adults (female = 480; male = 184) aged between 60 and 90 years (M = 70.34; SD = 12.67). Participants had a body mass ranging from 45 kg to 122 kg (M = 71.48; SD = 12.34) and a height ranging from 1.30 m to 1.89 m (M = 1.59; SD = 0.08). The Senior Fitness Test battery was used to evaluate parameters of physical fitness, body mass index was calculated, and abdominal circumference was measured. Females displayed a tendency to greater physical fitness compared to males, specifically in terms of lower and upper body flexibility compared to older male adults (p < 0.05). In addition, sexagenarian and older adults with normal weight tended to display greater physical fitness compared to septuagenarian and octogenarian, and overweight adults and those with obesity (p < 0.05), respectively. Information concerning physical fitness is crucial for guiding policymakers and other stakeholders in Leiria for the promotion of healthy aging among the older adult community. Furthermore, this study has established the preliminary reference standards for physical fitness, serving as a tool to promote healthy aging among Portuguese older adults residing in Leiria.

Abstract The present study explores the association of autonomous motivation and the relationship of positive and negative affect on anxiety levels among individuals engaged in gym practitioners during the second COVID-19 lockdown. A total of 196 exercisers (29.17 ± 10.77) were enrolled in the present study, of which 112 (57.1%) were women and 84 (42.9%) were men. The survey included sociodemographic data, as well as validated instruments measuring autonomous motivation, positive and negative affect, and anxiety states related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results revealed a positive association between autonomous motivation and positive affect (β = 0.36, CI 0.12, 0.37; p

The practice of physical activity, exercise, and sports brings various benefits to the general population. However, a few intervention programs involving physical activity and sports have been specifically designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of implementing a sports program based on gymnastics (specifically trampolines) on the motor skills of children with ASD. The program ran from September to May 2024 (8 months duration) using the Motor Competence Assessment Battery (MCA) as an evaluation tool. It included three typically developing children and three children with ASD, all aged between 4 and 5 years. The program sessions lasted 45 min and took place twice a week. The MCA Battery was administered to assess motor skills before and after the intervention. After the intervention program, significant differences were found only between moments in the Shuttle Run test (pre-intervention ≠ and post-intervention; Bonferroni correction: t = −2.00; p = 0.043; w = 0.33). Based on these results, we can conclude that practicing a sports program based on gymnastics (namely trampolines) can contribute to improving the motor skills of children with ASD.

Despite physical exercise is a good indicator of health promotion, the population with intellectual and developmental disabilities tends to have high levels of physical inactivity that influence their physical fitness, health, and quality of life (QoL). The present study aimed to analyse the functional physical fitness and QoL, as well as the associations between them, of a sample of the population with IDD. Thirty-seven individuals (42,54±11,12 years) with IDD were evaluated through the tests standing up and sitting on a chair, timed up and go and walking for 6 minutes, with the purpose of analysing physical fitness and the Personal Outcome Scale (POS) to measure physical well-being. Pearson's correlations were applied and the correlation between physical well-being and the tests stand up and sit down and walk for 6 minutes was verified. The results indicate an association between functional skills measured through the tests and physical well-being, suggesting that the promotion of these skills can positively influence the physical well-being of the sample used.

Office workers frequently display behavioral patterns marked by extended periods of sedentary and seated work. In this context, the implementation of a workplace exercise program has been shown to be effective in mitigating health-related risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 12-week workplace exercise program on the quality of life of employees whose primary occupational duties involve prolonged sitting. The final sample comprised 19 participants (6 females and 13 males), aged between 21 and 48 years (M = 32.26; SD = 9.03). Among these participants, 78.9% reported engaging in a hybrid work arrangement, 15.8% followed an on-site work regimen, and 5.3% worked remotely. Furthermore, 84.2% of participants reported sitting for 6 to 8 h per day, while 15.8% reported sitting for between 9 and 12 h daily. The quality of life of participants was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. A paired samples t-test was employed to examine differences between dependent variables. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in general health (p < 0.01), vitality (p < 0.01), social functioning (p < 0.05), and the mental health summary measure (p < 0.04). Promoting physical activity through workplace exercise programs offers substantial benefits for workers’ health and quality of life, contributing to the prevention of occupational diseases.

The present study aimed to investigate the dynamic changes in behavioral regulations among teenage football players throughout a competitive season, with three measurement points (T1, T2, and T3). The total sample size for the study comprised 108 participants (78 male; 30 female). The participants’ mean age was 14.31 (SD = 1.48). A MANOVA repeated measures analysis was performed within the group for all six behavioral regulations based on self-determination theory. The results of the study revealed noteworthy patterns in the behavioral regulations and intrinsic motivation scores over the competitive season. Identified regulation demonstrated a significant increase from T1 to T3 (p < 0.01, η2p = 0.13). Intrinsic motivation displayed a significant decrease over the same period from T1 to T3 (p < 0.01, η2p = 0.12). On the other hand, amotivation, external regulation, introjected regulation, and integrated regulation did not show significant changes between the three time points. The findings have practical implications for coaches and sports practitioners, as they highlight the need to create a supportive and autonomy-promoting environment to sustain athletes’ intrinsic motivation throughout a competitive season. Also, recognizing the increase in identified regulation can inform strategies that align team goals and training sessions with players’ individual values, thereby enhancing their commitment and dedication to the team’s success.

This study sought to assess the reliability of a manipulative eye–segmental (hand and foot) coordination task, known as the Wall Drop Punt Kick and Catch test (WDPK&C), over a period of two weeks. A total of forty-one children and adolescents, comprising 18 boys and 23 girls, with an average age of 10.2 years (SD = 1.62), were recruited for the assessment. Participants were given 30 seconds to execute as many ball impacts as possible on a wall located two meters away, following a drop punt kick, wall rebound, and catch sequence. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC = 0.896) for individual measurements, Cronbach Alpha (α = 0.945), and Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC = 0.896) provide robust evidence of reliability when considering two successive measurements. These findings further reinforce the reliability of the WDPK&C test within a sample of Portuguese children and adolescents. Consequently, the WDPK&C test is deemed suitable for application to Portuguese children and adolescents. Future studies should extend the assessment of this test's reliability to diverse age groups, as it is intended to serve as a test suitable for a wide range of ages.

IntroductionSports participation of people with disabilities provide an improvement in their skills, especially on access to social support, which could improve resilience and well-being. This study aims to analyze the association between types of social support (parents, coach, friend, and best friend), resilience and positive and negative affect, in 105 Portuguese athletes with disabilities aged between 13 and 61 years (32 ± 12.35 years).MethodsParticipants answered a short sociodemographic questionnaire, the Portuguese version of the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, and the Brief Resilience Scale, and a scale for assessing social support from parents, coach, friend, and best friend.ResultsSocial support provided by the best friend, coach, friends, and parents had a direct effect on resilience and positive and negative affect. Results showed a positive and significant association between resilience and positive affect (r = 0.28; p = 0.004) and a negative association between resilience and negative affect (r = −0.37; p ≤ 0.001). A strong relationship was found between resilience and affect, with no relationship being verified between the sources of social support and resilience or affect, as hypothesized.DiscussionFor this group of athletes with disability, more than the social support they may have or may feel, resilience proved to be very important for the consequence of sports practice in terms of subjective well-being.

The present study aimed to verify whether, in children of 10 years of age practicing athletics, a greater number of years of practice of this modality would correspond to higher values of motor competence (MC), as determined by the Motor Quotient (MQ) in the Körperkoordinationstest Für Kinder (KTK). The cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted in an athletics club in Portugal. Thirty-two children were evaluated, 15 female (10.4±0.25 years of age, 2.5±0.92 years of practice) and 17 male (10.4±0.22 years of age, 2.2±1.1 years of practice). Although no significant differences were found between children with one or two years of athletics practice and children with three or four, a moderate positive correlation was found between the time of practice (TP) and MC in girls (ρ=0.543, p=0.036). Mean MC results were considerably higher (both sexes) than the generality of studies often reveal. Finally, there were no significant differences on MC of boys and girls. The present results allow us to speculate that athletics may have helped to fill some gaps in motor coordination so often observed in girls, and the time of practice may have been especially beneficial for this group. It is suggested a longitudinal study to, more than confirm the detected association, verify what happens with boys’ and girls’ MC throughout the years of athletics practice. Keywords: athletics; children; practice time; motor competence; KTK test.

This paper is based on a project which aims to understand the contribution of motricity—in particular, motor games—to the development of autonomy in preschool children, with or without special education needs. A group of 18 children, with an average age of 4.5 years, from a public school took part in the study. An intervention program based on motor games was implemented and tested to promote the children’s autonomy. The program lasted two months, with one 45-min session per week. Using a questionnaire designed for this purpose, the children’s autonomy was assessed pre- and post-intervention. The children’s satisfaction with the sessions was assessed throughout the intervention. The main results were improvements in the autonomy of all the children and their high satisfaction with the program. The participation of children, with and without specific needs, in the entire program shows the use of differentiated practices that allowed everyone to be included in this process.

This study aims to comprehensively investigate the interrelationships among exercise intensity preference, tolerance, competence satisfaction, competence frustration, and exercise intentions within the fitness domain. The research involved 114 participants aged 18 to 59 years (M = 33.23; SD = 10.542), with an average height of 166.02 cm (SD = 15.856) and weight of 68.02 kg (SD = 13.658). The path analysis revealed positive correlations among constructs, except for the link between exercise intensity tolerance and competence satisfaction. Notably, exercise intensity preference positively related to competence satisfaction (β = 0.20, CI90% = 0.12, 0.40), while both preference and tolerance were negatively linked to competence frustration (preference: β = −0.27, CI90% = −0.44, 0.03; tolerance: β = −0.17, CI90% = −0.03, 0.24). Competence satisfaction (β = 0.37, CI90% = 0.13, 0.34) and competence frustration (β = −0.29, CI90% = −0.48, −0.09) significantly influenced exercise intentions. An indirect effect existed between exercise intensity preference and intentions (β = 0.11, CI90% = 0.03, 0.21), contrasting with the lack of such effect for intensity tolerance (β = 0.05, CI90% = −0.01, 0.14). Intentions explained 16% of the variance. In conclusion, this study underscores the intricate connections between exercise intensity traits and intentions, shedding light on factors influencing individuals’ exercise persistence.

Sport for people with disabilities appears to play a positive role in the well-being, resilience and social support of athletes with disabilities. Thus, this systematic review aims to evaluate the effect of adapted sport on the well-being, resilience and social support in a population with disabilities. The Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and SportDiscus databases were used, with several descriptors and Boolean operators. A total of 287 studies were identified through searching the databases. After the data extraction process, twenty-seven studies were included for analysis. In general, these studies show that adapted sport has a positive impact on the levels of well-being, resilience and social support resources for people with disabilities, contributing to their personal development, quality of life and integration into society. Considering the impact on the variables studied, these results are important to support and encourage the development of adapted sport.

Background and Objectives: Fibromyalgia are heterogeneous and differ from patient to patient; however, the most reported are general myalgia and at specific points associated with fatigue and certain psychological adversities. Physical activity can mitigate the effects of the symptoms. However, the associations between fibromyalgia-related fatigue, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, satisfaction with life and physical activity are unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to understand the associations between these symptoms and whether there are differences between these associations across two distinct cultures. Materials and Methods: A total of 473 women aged between 28 and 75 years (M = 49.27; SD ± 8.28) completed five questionnaires about fibromyalgia-related fatigue, physical activity, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and satisfaction with life. Results: Fibromyalgia-related fatigue was positively associated with depression and anxiety, depression and anxiety were negatively associated with self-esteem, self-esteem was positively associated with satisfaction with life, satisfaction with life was positively associated with physical activity and there were no differences in terms of the perceptions and associations of these variables between Portuguese and Brazilian patients. Conclusions: Our results showed the significant role of associations between these variables and a similarity in the perception and relationship of the variables between the two cultures.

The aim of this study was to translate and validate of the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES), from Mullen et al. version in Portuguese athletes, invariance across genders and nature sports and swimming, as well as, external validity, through the Portuguese version of BRSQ. Athletes (n=1032; 273 nature sports, 759 swimming) with an average age of 18,95 ± 6,59 years participated in this study. Confirmatory factor analysis (maximum likelihood), multigroup analysis (measurement invariance) and correlation analysis were used for data analyzed. Results supported the suitability of the models (one factor which eight items) showing an adequate fit to the data in each sample (general:χ²=181,96, p=

Abstract This study aims to validate the Portuguese version of the Satisfaction with Life Scale (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.82) and the Positive and Negative Affect Scale (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.86 for positive affect and 0.89 for negative affect) for people with disabilities and to examine the association between engaging in physical activity and affective responses, investigating the relationship with satisfaction with life. 143 Portuguese with disabilities filled in the Portuguese version of the scales. The findings endorsed the single factorial structure and reliability of the Satisfaction with Life Scale [χ2/df = 6.3, B-S p = 0.487, TLI = 0.989, CFI = 0.995, SRMR = 0.0263, RMSEA = 0.043 (CI = 0, 0.130)]. For Positive and Negative Affect Scale, the results also confirmed the factorial structure and reliability [χ2/df = 1.871, B-S p = 0.114, TLI = 0.891, CFI = 0.918, SRMR = 0.0778, RMSEA = 0.078 (CI = 0.048, 0.108)]. On the other hand, the structural model presented satisfactory fit to the data [χ2/df = 1.436, B-S p = 0.269, TLI = 0.917, CFI = 0.930, SRMR = 0.0748, RMSEA = 0.055 (CI = 0.033, 0.075)]. Significant direct effects have been found, as has been theoretically proposed, namely: years of practice displayed a positive and significant association with positive affect; positive affect was positively associated with satisfaction with life (β = 0.073, CI = 0.020, 0.139; p = 0.031).

Ethics studies moral values and defines good and bad conduct in research and researchers. In the area of research with human beings, it plays a crucial role in imposing limits, reducing abuses, and providing fair lines of research. The use of control groups in this type of research has been addressed and seems to be an effective method to assess the effects of an intervention, but it has raised doubts about the ethical challenges it involves. Therefore, this narrative review aims to address the ethical challenges in the use of control groups in research projects. In the analysed studies on populations with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), it was found that most researchers favoured the use of control groups which, during the research period, did not engage in any activity other than the usual activities in their daily lives. However, they should ensure that the control group has the opportunity to perform an intervention equal to the one performed by the experimental group, after the end of the research. In addition, it was possible to verify that, for the most part, the authors ensure the follow-up of ethical standards in studies with human subjects.

The global impact of physical activity and physical exercise on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), is not known, nor is the most effective type of exercise training for promoting these variables. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of the effect of physical exercise on BMI and WC in individuals with IDD through a systematic review with meta-analysis. Nine manuscripts met the eligibility criteria for the study. For BMI, the Z-value was Z=-2.176 and p=0.03. The highest magnitude of the effect was from the intervention with combined training showed the highest magnitude of effect (difference in means: -0.399, with a value of Z=-1.815 and p=0.07). For WC, the Z-value is Z=-3.306 and p=0.001. The intervention with continuous cardiorespiratory training showed the highest magnitude of effect (difference in means: -0.786, with a value of Z=-2.793 and p=0.005). Regular physical exercise seems to prevent an increase in BMI and WC in individuals with IDD. Similarly, the prescription of aerobic exercise seems to be more effective in promoting WC and the prescription of combined exercise in promoting BMI.

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the impact of a multicomponent exercise program and a concurrent exercise program on muscle strength among elderly individuals living in the community. Analysis using repeated measures ANOVA demonstrated significant main effects for the group factor (F(1,15) = 66.59, p < 0.001, η2 = .81) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 16.95, p < 0.001, η2 = .53) in relation to the 30-second chair test. For the 30-second arm curl, significant main effects were observed solely for the group factor (F(1,15) = 19.28, p < 0.001, η2 = .56). The timed up and go test revealed significant main effects for the group factor (F(1,15) = 35.56, p < 0.001, η2 = .70) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 11.68, p < 0.001, η2 = .43). Additionally, the group*time factor showed significant main effects for handgrip strength (F(1,15) = 5.19, p = 0.038, η2 = .25). The multicomponent exercise group exhibited a higher average increase compared to the concurrent exercise group. Although both exercise programs proved effective in enhancing muscle strength among elderly individuals living in the community, the multicomponent exercise group displayed superior outcomes across various physical fitness measures compared to the concurrent exercise group. These findings suggest that implementing a multicomponent exercise program may offer greater benefits for improving muscle strength in this specific population.

The increase in overweight and obesity among individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) also increases the deterioration of functionality and the risk of developing chronic diseases. Physical exercise has been identified as an effective strategy for reducing overweight and obesity and promoting health. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an indoor and outdoor exercise programme on individuals with IDD. Were split by convenience into three groups twenty-one adults with IDD (43.04 ± 11.18 years): i) an indoor training group (IG; N=7; 24-week machine-based gym intervention), ii) an outdoor training group (OG; N=7; 24-week outdoor intervention with low-content materials), and iii) a control group (CG; N=7). Various variables were assessed, including indicators of health and neuromuscular capacity. The Shapiro-Wilk (n

El test WDPK&C requiere la manipulación de un balón tanto con las extremidades superiores (soltar y atrapar) como con las inferiores (chutar). El presente estudio tuvo como objetivos: i) identificar cuál de las dos partes del pie (parte interna o empeine) implicaría un mejor rendimiento en el WDPK&C; ii) verificar si existe una correlación significativa entre el rendimiento de ambas partes del pie en el test, y iii) buscar diferencias entre adolescentes de edad temprana (10-13 años) y media (14-17 años) en las variables mencionadas. Treinta y cuatro jóvenes jugadores de baloncesto (14,59 ± 1,93 años) participaron en este estudio. Considerando la muestra global, así como sólo para el grupo de adolescentes precoces, la utilización del empeine reveló tener mayor eficacia que la utilización de la parte interna del pie. Además, se encontraron correlaciones muy fuertes (muestra global y adolescentes medios) y fuertes (adolescentes tempranos) entre el rendimiento de ambas partes del pie. Sin embargo, considerando exclusivamente a los adolescentes medios, no se encontró ninguna supremacía en el rendimiento de la parte del pie. Parece que la mayor eficacia en el test WDPK&C utilizando el empeine desaparece al pasar de la adolescencia temprana a la adolescencia media, en jugadores de baloncesto masculinos, probablemente debido a un aumento de la maduración y de los años de práctica. Palabras clave: competencia motora, coordinación motora gruesa, evaluación Abstract: WDPK&C test requires the manipulation of a ball with both the upper (releasing and catching) and the lower (kicking) limbs. The present study aimed to: i) identify which (if any) of two different foot parts (inner part or instep) would imply a better performance on WDPK&C; ii) verify if a significant correlation between both foot parts’ test performance could be found, and iii) search for differences between early (10-13 years-old) and middle (14-17 years-old) adolescents on the afore mentioned variables. Thirty-four young male basketball players (14.59 ± 1.93 years-old) participated in this study. Considering the global sample, as well as for the early adolescents’ group alone, using the instep revealed to have greater efficacy than using the inner part of the foot. Besides, very strong (global sample and middle adolescents) and strong (early adolescents) correlations between both foot parts performance were found. However, considering the middle adolescents exclusively, no foot part performance supremacy was found. It seems that the greater efficacy on WDPK&C test using instep disappears when passing from early adolescence to middle adolescence, on male basketball players, probably due to a rise in maturation and years of practice. Keywords: motor competence, gross motor coordination, assessment

Being aware of the relevance of physical exercise in individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), we intend to conduct a brief review on the importance of regular physical exercise for this population. An approach will be taken in order to acknowledge the barriers to the high rates of sedentary lifestyles in this population, the potential benefits of physical exercise, and the essential aspects for a correct assessment, prescription, and implementation of these programs in the population with IDD, through a reflection supported by scientific evidence. The current overview aims to provide relevant information regarding the health benefits of physical exercise in individuals with IDD, as the basis for QoL promoting more active and healthier lifestyles, namely through structured physical exercise. In addition, it is also a useful tool for consultation by exercise professionals since adjusted indoor and outdoor exercise programs are listed.

Electromyographic biofeedback (EMG-BF) is a technique that can contribute to the improvement of muscle tone and control in the rehabilitation process after injury. The aim of this research was to determine the effectiveness of EMG-BF in increasing the electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis after knee injury. The sample consisted of four individuals who had undergone surgery or rehabilitation to resolve either a partial meniscal tear or a patellar tendon strain. The intervention consisted of a program of ten sessions of EMG-BF work. Twelve trials were performed in each session, in which participants were instructed to target the muscle tension produced by the vastus lateralis of the uninjured hemilateral limb. Of the twelve trials in each session, the first three and the last three were performed without feedback, and the intermediate six with feedback. The recording of muscle activity was performed using CY-351/2 Mioback equipment, which allowed the amplitude of the electromyographic signal to be evaluated. The results indicated that the sample analyzed reached greater amplitude during the biofeedback trials, both for the maximum (Z = −13.43, p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.64, 95% CI (0.27, 1.01)) and mean (Z = −7.26, p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.24, 95% CI (−0.12, 0.60)) values. The amplitude also increased throughout the ten sessions, both for the maximum (Z = −3.06, p < 0.01, Cohen’s d = 1.37, 95% CI (0.29, 2.45)) and mean (Z = −3.06, p < 0.01, Cohen’s d = 1.20, 95% CI (0.34, 2.08)) values. Thus, the results highlight the efficacy of this technique in improving muscle activity, suggesting that it is a useful therapeutic procedure in injury recovery.

A literatura destaca claramente a relação entre os níveis de autonomia e independência das pessoas com deficiência intelectual e de desenvolvimento (DI) e os seus níveis de aptidão física. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar os efeitos de um programa de exercícios físicos nos níveis de autonomia, funcionalidade nas atividades da vida diária (AVD) e aptidão física de pessoas com TDI. 17 participantes completaram a intervenção de 9 semanas, na qual parâmetros como dados antropométricos (altura, peso, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e massa muscular (MM), funcionalidade de AVD (WHODAS 2.0) e dados relacionados à aptidão física (teste de preensão manual , Sentar e Levantar e cronometrar e ir) antes e depois da intervenção. Foram encontradas melhorias significativas após o programa de intervenção de exercício físico nas variáveis ​​de funcionalidade (autorrelatos: t=-2,19; p=0,03; η2=0,282 e relatórios proxy : t=-2,64; p=0,01; η2=0,410) e composição corporal (IMC: t=-2,08; p=0,05; η2=0,254 e massa muscular; t=-1,94; p=0,05; η2=0,221), mas não na aptidão física.O programa de intervenção parece ter contribuído positivamente para melhorar a percepção de autonomia nas AVD e na composição corporal. Palavras-chave: deficiência intelectual; atividades de vida diária; funcionalidade; habilidades físicas; exercício físico.

This research aims to explore the interplay between supportive and hindering behaviours, the fulfilment of basic psychological needs, motivation, and intentions to sustain sports participation among athletes. A longitudinal approach was employed to investigate the evolving relationships between these variables over time. A total of 538 athletes (219 male and 319 female), aged between 15 and 32 years (mean age = 22.78; standard deviation = 4.52), participated in this study. The sample encompassed athletes from football (n = 187), basketball (n = 172), and swimming (n = 179). The structural equation model exhibited a good fit. Positive direct and indirect connections were observed between most constructs, with the exception of the associations between controlled motivation and basic psychological need satisfaction. Intentions to continue sports participation accounted for 12% of the variance in athletes' sports persistence. While the mediation model did not reveal any direct effects for need-supportive or need-thwarting behaviours, it did identify significant indirect pathways within the positive aspect of the model. The overall indirect impact of need-supportive behaviours in the model was β = .14 (90% confidence interval = .26; .37), whereas, for need-thwarting behaviours, it was β = -.05 (90% confidence interval = -.11; -.01), indicating a beneficial mediation process. Cultivating autonomous motivation and fostering a supportive environment that meets athletes' basic psychological needs can be instrumental in nurturing enduring commitment, boosting athletes' intentions to persist in sports, and heightening their prospects for long-term success.

The relationship between the levels of autonomy and independence in people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and their levels of functional physical fitness is not clear in the literature. Thus, this study aimed to compare the levels of autonomy and functionality in daily living activities of people with IDD with their functional physical fitness levels and to analyse the effect of a 9-week physical exercise programme (one 1h session per week) on these variables. Seventeen adults (35.17±13.57 years) with IDD participated in this study. Anthropometric data (height, weight, body mass index and muscle mass) and data regarding functionality of daily living activities (WHODAS 2.0) were collected. The functional physical fitness was also assessed (handgrip strength, standing and sitting, and timed up and go test. There was an improvement in the daily living activities functionality (z=-2.19; p=.03) and body composition, namely in body mass index (z=-2.08;p=.04) and muscle mass (z=-1,94;p=.05) in the comparison between two moments. On the other hand, there were no differences in the functional physical fitness variables. Thus, the intervention program seems to have contributed positively to improving the perception of autonomy in daily living activities and body composition but was not enough to improve the participants' functional physical fitness.

The objective of this study was to analyse and compare the goals scored and goals conceded in the top six European football leagues (Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, England, and Germany) from 2001 to 2020. The champions in these leagues typically achieved a mean combination score (an indicator that factors in both attack and defence rankings) ranging from 1 to 1.40. Notably, the French and Italian leagues stood out as the only ones where the variation coefficients of this combination score exceeded 50%, with percentages of 71% and 59%, respectively, in contrast to the other football leagues. Further examination revealed significant distinctions between the Portuguese and French leagues compared to Italy concerning the best attack positions of the champions (Z=3.196; p=0.01; η2=0.123). Similarly, when assessing defensive rankings, Portugal and Italy displayed notable differences from France (Z=3.763; p=0.003; η2=1.42). Additionally, the only two countries exhibiting substantial disparities in their positions for goals scored and conceded were France (with a stronger focus on attack than defence; t=-3; p

This study investigated the psychometric nature of preference for and tolerance of exercise intensity in physical activity. It initially re-examined the Preference for and Tolerance of the Intensity of Exercise Questionnaire (PRETIE-Q) among Portuguese exercisers, looking at its applicability to different exercise activities and exercise experiences. Then, to investigate the applicability of the measure in different groups, its invariance was examined. The sample consisted of 1117 participants (528 male, 589 female) aged 18–81 years old (Mage = 36.81, SD = 11.89). All participants reported at baseline that they were exercising, on average, 3.93 days (SD = 1.36) per week. The exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) displayed the best fit. The ESEM did show invariance when tested for multigroup analysis. The conclusion of this research is that the ESEM demonstrated the best fit, displaying invariance in multigroup analysis. Furthermore, when assessing preference and tolerance in various exercise modalities, the PRETIE-Q should be primarily used as a multidimensional instrument due to the differential recognition of preference and tolerance in seemingly similar physical activity circumstances, highlighting the importance of employing context-verified measures to evaluate exercise-intensity preference and tolerance based on sample characteristics or real-time context.

A inclusão de crianças com deficiência nas escolas nem sempre é um processo fácil, tornando essencial a identificação de melhores estratégias para atingir tal objetivo. Neste estudo procurou-se analisar o efeito de um programa de intervenção, baseado em jogos motores adaptados, em crianças do pré-escolar, ao nível das atitudes de inclusão face aos pares com deficiência e na perceção de competências das crianças com deficiência. Para tal, foi elaborado um programa de 8 sessões (45 minutos cada), baseado em jogos motores adaptados. Participaram no programa 13 crianças com idades entre os 5 e 6 anos (5,31±0,48), das quais 7 eram do sexo masculino e 6 do sexo feminino. Nestas sessões as crianças, através de uma história, conheceram uma personagem que, ao longo das semanas, encontrou várias crianças com deficiência e foi tentando criar jogos que pudessem ser jogados por todas. Recorreu-se a um questionário para avaliação das dimensões “atitudes de inclusão” e “perceção de competências”, previamente utilizado por Antunes et al. (2022). A satisfação das crianças com as sessões foi avaliada seguindo as recomendações de Birch et al. (2019). Os resultados revelaram melhorias na dimensão atitudes de inclusão (p=0,002; z=-3,08) e perceção de competências (p=0,001; z=-3,18), entre os momentos pré e pós intervenção. Além disso, a satisfação das crianças com as sessões foi sempre muito evidente (≥80%). Os resultados deste estudo parecem reforçar o papel que o jogo lúdico-motor adaptado pode ter como estratégia de promoção de competências de inclusão, mesmo em idades precoces. Palavras-chave: Atitudes de inclusão, inclusão inversa, jogos, perceção de competências, pré-escolar

The present study aimed to compare scored and conceded goals of the top six European football leagues (Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, England, and Germany) between the years of 2001 and 2020. The champions have a mean combo (indicator that combines attack and defense ranking) result between 1 and 1.40. The French and Italian leagues were the only ones where variation coefficients of this combo result overpassed 50% (71 and 59%, respectively) compared to the remaining football leagues. Further subsequent analysis showed that the Portuguese and French leagues differ significantly from Italy in terms of the best attack position of the champions (Z=3.196; p=0.01; η2=0.123). In terms of position in the defensive ranking, Portugal and Italy showed significant different results compared to France (Z=3.763; p=0.003; η2=1.42). Besides, the only two countries with significant differences in scored and conceded goals positioning were France (attack better than defense; t=-3; p

The aim of the of the current investigation was to investigate the possible differences concerning males and females in anthropometry, body composition, functional capacity, strength and quality of life variables. After obtaining signed informed consent, 37 participants (18 males; 19 females), with mean age of 39.08 and standard deviation of 11.66 years, voluntarily participated in this study. Anthropometry, body composition, functional capacity, strength, and quality of life were assessed using validated and reliable instruments and tests for this population. The males and females were compared using a Mann–Whitney U signed rank test. Significant differences were detected among the following variables, height (p = 0.028), body mass index (p = 0.033), fat mass (p = 0.002), muscle mass (p ≤ 0.001), phase angle (p = 0.005), medicine ball throwing strength (p = 0.010), and peak toque left knee (p = 0.028), with males showing better results in all the variables. The sample in this study showed differences in the anthropometric, composition, and strength variables. Studying this population can help ensure that everyone has equal access to services and adequate support for their personal needs, improving their quality of life.

Introduction/Methods: This systematic review with meta-analysis aims to assess the magnitude of the effects of physical exercise programs on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), metabolic and cardiovascular health markers.Results: Considering the eligibility criteria, a final sample of nine articles was obtained. For BMI, the Z-value obtained to test the null hypothesis (difference between means is zero), showed a Z = −2.176 and p = 0.03. The highest magnitude of the effect was from the intervention with combined training (difference in means: −0.399), with a value of Z = −1.815 and p = 0.07. For WC, the Z-value is zero, showing a Z = −3.306 and p = 0.001. The highest magnitude of the effect was from the intervention with continuous cardiorespiratory training of −0.786, with a value of Z = −2.793 and p = 0.005.Discussion: Physical exercise prevents increases in BMI and WC in individuals with IDD. Aerobic training seems to be more effective in promoting WC and combined training in BMI.Systematic Review Registration: [PROSPERO], identifier [CRD42021255316].

A preocupação com a qualidade de vida,bem-estar e saúde mental dos idosos tem sido evidente na literatura, assumindo a prática regular de exercício físico um papel fundamental na sua promoção, especialmente tendo em conta o envelhecimento demográfico a que temos assistido. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar os níveis de bem-estar subjetivo (satisfação com a vida e afeto positivo e negativo), qualidade de vida e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa numa amostra de idosos portugueses, incluindo uma análise comparativa destas variáveis em função da frequência semanal de prática de Exercício Físico. Foram ainda analisadas as associações entre as variáveis. Para tal, recorreu-se a uma amostra de 92 idosos portugueses (76,55±9.73 anos), 26 (28,3%) do sexo masculino e 66 (71,7%) do sexo feminino. Foram utilizadas as versões portuguesas da “SWLS”, do “PANAS”, bem da “HADS” e da “EUROHIS-QOL-8”. Os principais resultados revelaram a existência de diferenças significativas na variável afeto positivo (p= 0,01) (idosos que não praticavam exercício físico com valores mais reduzidos) e na variável sintomatologia depressiva (p= 0,01) (idosos com maior frequência de prática de exercício físico com menor sintomatologia depressiva). Destacam-se ainda as associações entre as variáveis em estudo (bem-estar, qualidade de vida e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa). Este estudo parece assim dar um importante contributo na compreensão do papel da prática regular de exercício físico, não apenas para a saúde física do idoso, mas também para o seu bem-estar e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa.

This study aimed to compare the effects of a multicomponent exercise program and a concurrent exercise program on muscle strength in community-dwelling elderly subjects. Participants (n = 35; male = 17; female = 18; Mage = 69.17, SD = 5.01 years) were screened and included in the study. Among them, 19 individuals were assigned to the multicomponent group, while 16 were assigned to the concurrent group. The results of the repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects for the group factor (F(1,15) = 66.59, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.81) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 16.95, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.53) for the 30-second chair test. Furthermore, significant main effects were observed only for the group factor (F(1,15) = 19.28, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.56) for the 30-second arm curl. Regarding the Timed Up and Go test, significant main effects were found for the group factor (F(1,15) = 35.56, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.70) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 11.68, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.43). Lastly, significant main effects were observed for the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 5.19, p = 0.038, η2 = 0.25) for handgrip strength. The multicomponent exercise group displayed a greater mean increase compared to the concurrent exercise group. While both the multicomponent and the concurrent exercise programs were effective in improving muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults, the multicomponent exercise group exhibited superior outcomes compared to the concurrent exercise group across the physical fitness measures. These findings suggest that a multicomponent exercise program may be more beneficial for enhancing muscle strength in this population.

Introduction: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased in the last decades, including in people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This is even more concerning when it is globally accepted that a low physical condition contributes to the deterioration of functionality and increases the risk of developing chronic diseases during life, with effective implications for health and well-being. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of two physical exercise intervention programs on institutionalized individuals with IDD.Methods: Twenty-one adults with IDD (43.04 ± 11.18 years) were split by convenience into three groups: i) an indoor training group (IG; N = 7; 24-week machine-based gym intervention), ii) an outdoor training group (OG; N = 7; 24-week outdoor intervention with low-content materials), and iii) a control group (CG; N = 7). Assessed outcomes included indicators of health and neuromuscular capacity. The ShapiroWilk (n < 50) and Levene tests were used to verify data normality and homoscedasticity. A Kruskal-Walli test was performed to understand if there were differences between the groups. For comparison purposes and to assess hypothetical differences between groups, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Friedman test were used. The respective effect size was calculated, and the significance level was defined at 0.05.Results/Discussion: There was a difference in fat mass in OG (initial ≠ intermediate; Bonferroni corrected: t = 2.405; p = 0.048; W = 0.08 and initial ≠ final moments; Bonferroni corrected: t = 2.405; p = 0.048; W = 0.08). Indoor intervention programs seem to be more effective than outdoor intervention programs for reducing heart rate rest (t = −2.912; p = 0.011; W = −0.104) when compared with CG.Conclusion: A low-cost outdoor intervention in contact with nature appears to be more effective for fat mass reduction. The results for heart rate variability are not clear and robust. Finally, an indoor intervention using weight-training machines appears to be a good method to promote neuromuscular capacity.

O presente projeto piloto visa analisar o efeito de um programa de intervenção baseado em jogos lúdico-motores adaptados para as deficiências sensoriais e físicas, com a duração de 5 semanas, em crianças do 1º e 4º anos de escolaridade do 1º ciclo do Ensino Básico, ao nível da perceção das crianças sem deficiência face aos pares com deficiência, nomeadamente no que diz respeito às atitudes de inclusão e da perceção de competências. Participaram 32 alunos, dos quais 15 são do género masculino e 17 do género feminino, com idades compreendidas entre os 6 e os 10 anos. Para a avaliação da implementação deste programa de inclusão inversa, recorremos a uma metodologia mista com a avaliação quantitativa realizada através de um questionário (em processo de validação) e a avaliação qualitativa com a realização de grupos focais. Os principais resultados revelam a existência de diferenças significativas, na dimensão da perceção de competências, entre os dois momentos de avaliação (pré e pós). A análise dos grupos focais também realçou a satisfação com o programa de atividades desenvolvido e perceção da pertinência do mesmo. De uma forma geral, conclui-se que o projeto permitiu aos participantes melhorarem a perceção relativa às competências e dificuldades de uma criança com deficiência, bem como mais conhecedores de estratégias (por exemplo jogos e brincadeiras) para incluir os pares com deficiência.

Esta revisão narrativa tem como objetivo examinar as evidências atuais que suportam a importância do exercício físico e o papel do técnico de exercício físico como promotor de educação para a cidadania, da aptidão física e o seu impacto no desempenho das atividades de vida diária e, por conseguinte, da qualidade de vida de indivíduos com Dificuldade Intelectual e Desenvolvimental. Várias questões são elencadas, de modo a perceber as razões para as elevadas taxas de sedentarismo nesta população, o porquê da escassez de estudos experimentais, quem são os intervenientes na avaliação, prescrição e condução dessas atividades, qual a formação dos intervenientes e que cuidados devem ter com a referida população, no qual, através da uma reflexão suportada pela evidência científica, tentar-se-á dar resposta. Em termos de resultados é clara necessidade do mercado de técnicos de exercício físico com formação de base na área das ciências do desporto e específica em atividades físicas adaptadas, no desenrolar de funções, tarefas e atividades com indivíduos com Dificuldade Intelectual e Desenvolvimental, seja em contexto de ensino regular, de fitness ou modalidade desportiva e, consequentemente, promotores de qualidade de vida em indivíduos com Dificuldade Intelectual e Desenvolvimental.

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that progressively affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It can interfere with daily activities and lead to a decline in cognitive abilities over time. Exercise-based interventions can complement Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Exercise is a valuable tool in all healthcare settings and has shown promise as an effective cognitive improvement intervention for people with cognitive impairments. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to analyze the effect of physical exercise on the QoL of subjects with Alzheimer’s disease. A search was performed with the help of the electronic databases PubMed and Web of Science. Randomized controlled trials with exercise-based interventions were selected. Four studies met the inclusion criteria, which included interventions based on exercise. The effects were summarized using standardized mean differences (95% confidence intervals) using random-effect models. The results showed that exercise had no significant effect on the QoL of subjects with Alzheimer. Thus, the effect of exercise interventions on the QoL of patients with Alzheimer’s disease is not conclusive. More research is needed about this topic and the way in which the QoL is assessed; the necessity to conduct an objective way to assess the QoL in this population is mandatory.

Goals scored are the most important performance indicator and may be a good tool to analyze game style predominance within different leagues. The aims of this study are to describe how goals are scored in the two major soccer leagues in the season of 2020/21, and to compare both leagues to watch possible differences in the offensive sequences that lead to goal-scoring. The aims of this study were: to evaluate goal scoring trends among two main soccer leagues and to compare the two leagues. A total of 1409 goals were observed using notational analysis. The total results show a dominance of positional play/fast attack (n = 38%), followed by set pieces as the second means to score (n = 32%) with corner kicks having a great impact (n = 36%) within set pieces goals. The most goals were scored by short possessions (n = 50%) with short passes number (n = 57%), with the recovery of the ball in the offensive third (n = 47%) and the huge dominance of finalization in central areas inside the box (n = 78%). Spanish La Liga scored more by positional play/fast attack, with most of the possessions starting in the medium third and using more the “central wing goal area” and “between wings left in the box” end zones when compared with English Premier League. The latter has more goals from counterattacks and corner kicks with very long possessions. Most of the possessions start in the offensive third and more goals are scored in “central wing between penalty and goal area” in comparison with Spanish La Liga. Coaches must be aware of the trends of the game and of the differences across leagues to prepare themselves when working in different countries to each specific characteristic.

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between age, body mass index, muscle strength, and balance in physically active, aged adults. Methods: Eighty-five participants were recruited for this study, having an average age of 70.31 years (SD = 9.90), ranging from 50 to 92 years. Twenty-six (30.6%) participants were male and fifty-nine (69.4%) were female. The participants had an average body mass index of 27.30 kg/m2 (SD = 3.62), ranging from 20.32 to 38.58 kg/m2. Participants undertook the Timed-Up and Go to test balance, and the chair-stand test to assess lower body strength. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted. Three models (Model 1, 2, and 3) were tested to assess their relationships with balance: M1—Lower body muscle strength; M2—Lower body muscle strength and body mass index; M3—Lower body muscle strength, body mass index, and age. Results: All hierarchical models displayed significant variance. The third model explained 50.9% of the variance in dynamic balance, [F(3, 81) = 27.94, p < 0.001, R = 0.71, Ra2 = 0.51]. The difference in Ra2 between the first, second, and third models was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Age, body mass index, and lower body muscle strength had significant (p < 0.05) correlations with balance. In terms of the significant impact of each predictor, age had the strongest association with balance (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results are useful to understand mechanisms or diagnose people at risk of fall.

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of a manipulative eye–segmental (hand and foot) coordination task, namely the Wall Drop Punt Kick and Catch test (WDPK&C), over two weeks. Forty-one children and adolescents (18 boys, 23 girls) with a mean age of 10.2 (SD = 1.62) years old were recruited for assessment. Subjects had 30 s to perform as many ball impacts as possible on a wall two meters away, following a drop punt kick, rebound on the wall, and catch sequence. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC = 0.896) for unique measures, Cronbach Alpha (α = 0.945), and Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC = 0.896) provide evidence of reliability considering two consecutive measurements. These results further support the reliability of the WDPK&C test in a sample of Portuguese children and adolescents. Thus, the WDPK&C test can be applied to Portuguese boy and girl children and adolescents. Forthcoming studies should test the reliability of this test across different age groups since it is intended to be a test with a wide lifespan coverage.

The aim of this study was to compare the tactical knowledge of young football players in different playing positions during a three-a-side small-sided game (SSG). Observational data was collected from 71 players (M = 12.16; SD = 1.55 years): 11 goalkeepers, 22 defenders, 15 midfielders, and 23 forwards. In total, 4 min of three-a-side SSGs (GR + 3 vs. 3 + GR) were recorded to assess tactical performance using a digital camera (GoPro Hero 6® version 02.01). The SSGs were performed on a field with a constant area (36 × 27 m). Video analyses were performed using LongoMatch® version 1.5.9 to record football performance; we then assessed tactical performance by using the Football Tactical Assessment System (Fut-Sat). This instrument evaluates the average of well-defined action indexes for each game in decision making principle and motor skills, specifically: (i) Decision Making Index (DMI); (ii) Motor Effectiveness Index (MEI); (iii) Effectiveness Index (I). The indexes were calculated by the ratio between the correct actions and the total. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to evaluate differences between playing positions. The results showed that tactical performance by principles seems to be significantly different according to playing position. Differences were found between defenders and forwards (H = −11.92; p = 0.03) and defenders and midfielders (H = −16.13; p = 0.01) in contention principle. In conclusion, tactical knowledge of training based on the principles of the game can help coaches and players better understand and predict each player’s actions during the game.

Background: Motivation is a crucial factor in predicting health-related outcomes, and understanding the determinants of motivation can provide valuable insights into how to improve health behaviors and outcomes in older adults. In this study, we aimed to investigate the associations between intrinsic and extrinsic exercise motivation, basic psychological needs, satisfaction with life, and physical activity among the elderly population. Methods: The sample consisted of 268 older adults (59 male, 209 female) aged 65–90 years old (Mage = 68.11, SD = 6.95). All participants reported that they were exercising, on average, 1.65 days (SD = 0.51) per week. Factor analysis was conducted using a two-step approach. First, a confirmatory factor analysis and then a structural equation model considering all variables under analysis was performed. Results: the structural model displayed acceptable fit to the data: χ2/df = 3.093; CFI = 0.913; TLI = 0.908; SRMR = 0.071; RMSEA 0.079 [0.066, 0.092]. Significant direct effects were found as theoretically proposed, namely: (a) intrinsic motivation were positively and significantly associated with basic psychological need satisfaction (p < 0.001); (b) extrinsic motivation were negatively but not significantly associated with basic psychological needs (p < 0.001); and (c) basic psychological need satisfaction were positively and significantly associated with satisfaction with life (p < 0.001) and physical activity (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Intrinsic motivation and basic psychological needs play a crucial role in shaping exercise behavior and overall well-being. By understanding these motivation and needs, exercise and health professionals can work towards fulfilling them and achieving a greater sense of satisfaction in the life of the elderly and promote exercise adherence.