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Methodological aspects regarding the improvement of Tsukahara vault (tempo)
Corina MOROȘAN; Cezar HANTĂU; Yannakos ATHANASSIOS30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.1Sport performance; Artistic gymnasticsThe main purpose of this research is to analyse methodological aspects regarding the improvement of the handspring forward with ½ turn (1800 ) in the longitudinal axis, which is known as Tsukahara vault (tempo), for junior gymnasts (levels 2 and 3) aged 10-11 years. The analysed aspects are the basis of an experimental study carried out at the “Steaua” School Sports Club in Bucharest. The study was conducted with a single experimental group consisting of eight female gymnasts selected from the advanced and competitive groups (Women’s Artistic Gymnastics section). The athletes were assessed at the beginning of the research (initial testing) and at the end of the experiment after applying a specific programme aimed at both physical training and technical training. Among the physical tests applied, we mention: 25 m sprint, Sargent test, standing long jump, but the assessment also targeted back and shoulder girdle muscle strength, abdominal strength and the ability to maintain specific positions in vault phases (first and second flights). From a technical point of view, the gymnasts’ performance was evaluated taking into account the specific penalties provided by the International Gymnastics Federation Classification Programme and the requested positions for the 3 vault phases specified in the Code of Points. The objective of this experiment is to highlight how the improvement of physical and technical parameters influences the accuracy and efficiency of execution. -
Comparative study of aerobic capacity in female students before and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Camelia BRANEȚ; Raluca PELIN; Valeria BĂLAN; Adrian PRICOP; Carmen GRIGOROIU30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.2Aerobic capacityIn December 2019, the first cases of COVID-19 appeared in China, and the virus spread rapidly all over the world. In this context, Romanian public authorities implemented specific social distancing measures to prevent or slow down the transmission of the virus, imposing quarantine (16 March to 14 May 2020), travel restrictions, closure of educational institutions and certain work sectors, and banning artistic and sports events. Research has highlighted changes in the lifestyle of the entire population during the COVID-19 pandemic through the emergence of unhealthy behaviours, including among university students worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity is one of the most important risk factors for various diseases, hence its recommendations for adult people to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week. These recommendations for weekly physical activity were often not fulfilled during the pandemic, especially in lockdown periods, as shown by numerous studies conducted on samples of different nationalities. This research aims to emphasise the status of aerobic endurance in female students after attending exclusively online courses for 21 months. The research was conducted at the Politehnica University of Bucharest, and the participants were 125 young women aged 19-21 from the pre- and post-pandemic generations. The assessment was indirectly performed through the 2-Km Walk Test with the purpose of outlining possible gaps between the two generations. Analysing the research results, we could conclude that the pandemic had an impact on raising awareness of the need for movement among young women. -
Evaluation of physiotherapy effects using specific tests in Duchenne muscular dystrophy - a case study
Alexandra-Mihaela IONICĂ; Alexandru BUZESCU30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.3KinetotherapyCurrently, patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy manage to reach the fourth or fifth decade of life due to advances in the management of different specialties that are involved through evaluations and anticipatory therapies based on a type of suitable approach for identifying specific medical complications as early as possible. The progressive decrease in muscular strength that affects the cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems needs to be constantly managed. The purpose of this case study is to observe to what extent physiotherapy contributes to the modification of North Star Ambulatory Assessment (NSSA), NMScore and Vignos Scale in a 27-year-old patient with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. NSAA is used to monitor disease progression and treatment effects but also to measure various motor skills. The NM-Score classifies functional abilities into three main motor domains. The Vignos Scale measures lower limb function. The scores obtained in the initial assessment were 11/34, 2/4, 1/4, 1/4 and 3/10, and the functional recovery treatment was carried out over a period of 6 months. Specific, non-specific and complex physiotherapy methods were used with the main objectives of improving joint range of motion, gait and balance, reducing muscle contractures, increasing endurance and promoting independence in carrying out daily activities. The final assessment showed improvements in all scores, so the objectives were accomplished. Along with the other medical specialties that help dystrophic patients improve their quality of life, physiotherapy plays an important role because movement is the key to a healthy and long life. -
Study on the importance of promoting running events in correlation with the participants' opinions
Virgil TUDOR; Monica Iulia STĂNESCU; Daniela MARCU30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.4CommunicationParticipation in running sports events has become an increasingly important phenomenon in recent decades, which is more and more present in everyday life. An important role in the growth and development of street running sports events is played by the promotion campaign carried out by the organisers. This paper aims to reveal the opinions of participants in the street running sports events organised by Bucharest Running Club regarding the way of organising these events. Using the questionnaire as a research tool, aspects related to the influence of the media on the conduct of events were identified. An increased proportion of respondents, namely 76.8%, believe that the press influences the development of sports events. The majority of respondents (93.6%) positively assess the quality of the information about the events organised by Bucharest Running Club, which are provided on the website and social media pages of the events, awarding values above 5 in the range from 1 (totally unsatisfied) to 10 (totally satisfied). At the same time, the respondents most frequently gave this aspect the value 10 (34%). The research findings highlight the importance of monitoring how sports events are promoted in correlation with a questionnaire administered to participants, which will reveal the elements that need to be improved, with the ultimate goal of offering athletes an optimal promotion plan for these competitions. -
The social context and the development of women's football in Romania
Andreea TRUȘCĂ; Silvia TEODORESCU30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.5Social contextIn Romania, women’s football has not enjoyed a development that could ensure this sport a high level of competitiveness. During the communist period, women’s football existed rather at an amateur level, and while the Golden Generation of Romanian men’s football was getting results at international competitions in the 1990s, women’s football was barely starting to be formalised. The purpose of this study is to analyse the perception of female football players on different aspects of their professional life. The sample consisted of 126 women with ages between 12 and 34 years (with a mean age of 18), who completed an online questionnaire with 24 items. The statistical analysis was both quantitative (SPSS) and qualitative (NVivo). Respondents were asked to rate various aspects that interfered with the sports profession (family, society, opportunities, football career) and, although 30% already had a job in sports-related fields, some of them still wanted to focus on other areas of activity. Also, the identification of players with this type of sport shows the highest agreement, with an average of 4.59, and the opportunities for women in this field are considered better than ever, with an average score of 3.56, both items in range 1 to 5. The results emphasise that Romanian women’s football has experienced a significant increase during the last years, but the main problem identified in this sports sector remains the inequality in terms of media coverage and finance as compared to men’s sport. -
The contribution of hydrotherapy and swimming to post-mastectomy functional rehabilitation
Oana Maria BALTAG; Andra Ioana SINGURAN; Mihaela APOSTU; Ruxandra EL-BSAT30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.6KinetotherapyBreast neoplasm represents an abnormal multiplication of epithelial cells in the breast ducts and mammary lobules; it manifests itself clinically by the appearance of a tumour which, if not treated in time, develops both locally and at tissue distance. Following treatment, patients with breast neoplasm complain of symptoms also present in other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, which can be treated with hydrotherapy. Exercises performed in water have a varied spectrum of applicability, for example, improving joint mobility, increasing muscle strength and reducing chronic pain. The exercises used have the role to improve muscle strength of the whole body, joint mobility and muscle elasticity, but also to facilitate muscle contraction. In this therapy concept, hydrostatic water pressure and buoyancy help apply exercises to a wide range of conditions such as orthopaedic, oncological, neurological and rheumatologic. The aim of this study is to verify the effectiveness of an aquatic exercise programme for improving upper limb function on the side of the surgery. The research included 5 participants aged between 33 and 39 years, with radical right mastectomy. The functional assessment consisted of three tests. After the final evaluation, the average value of each test decreased, which highlighted an improvement in the functional level of the upper limb. Hydrotherapy has a positive physiological and psychosocial effect because it stimulates socialisation and, in particular, the acceptance of the condition that these people face. -
Aspects regarding the improvement of the methodological system for testing alpine skiers
Adrian PICA; Mircea NEAMȚU30 March 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.1.7Sport performance Alpine skiingThe universality of sport, the altitude, the instability of performance and its ongoing progress towards biological and psychological limits still unknown to man compel reflection and analysis. Specialists are aware that performance does not spring from a cluster of facts and events, but is a product of the effects determined by the concentric action of some objective and subjective factors. In sports science, an important step forward was made by inventorying and measuring these indicators through various objectification procedures, followed by their interpretation. Researchers in the field aim to determine the maximum efficiency of these factors by establishing their value hierarchy, chronological order or the simultaneity of their useful intervention. Thus, the path towards organising the scientific management of sports training for performance achievement is open. Everything else is a matter of methodology and technology. The methods and strategies for training children and juniors are a very much discussed topic due to their different approaches within the most important ski schools worldwide. Children and juniors represent the next generations that will participate in major international alpine skiing competitions. Their technique is still developing and there are very few who master the adult technique. At this age, the main objective of training is the acquisition of a correct basic technique. If the basic technique is not properly acquired, future athletes will not be able to reach a high competitive level, in the sense that their sports results in major competitions will be negatively affected. -
Distinguishable hardships for a sample of middle school students from Vrancea county
Dan BADEA; Doina CROITORU; Sorin CIOLCĂ; Gheorghe GRIGORE; Virgil TUDOR; Paul DONICI; Ana GAVRILESCU30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.1Physical educationThe present research is part of the project “Sustainable social and educational integration by sport activities”. The project aims to lower truancy rates and enhance educational attainment up to ISCED3 levels. Vrancea county is characterised by a prominent level of impoverishment (below the national level) and a notable rate of school dropout during the middle school years (above the national level). Our study aims to outline the multifaceted difficulties experienced by middle school students in Vrancea County, which can be categorized into eight distinct groups. These categories include Roma students, students with one or both parents working abroad, remigrated students, students from disorganized or single-parent families, students from child protection institutions, student coming from a family of immigrants/refugees in Romania, students with disabilities, and students at risk of early school dropout. This research is of an applied nature and was carried out over a period of 3 years, focusing on students enrolled in two schools with a moderate ISCED3 transition level, comprising a total of 204 students, including 124 boys and 80 girls. It is worth noting that specific difficulties and vulnerabilities differ between genders. The risk of early school leaving, mainly due to poverty, is more prevalent among g, while belonging to the Roma ethnicity poses a greater challenge for boys. The findings from this study serve as a foundational resource for guiding the counselling activities within the project. -
Coping strategies of footballers who have recovered from COVID-19 in five European countries
Alexandra PREDOIU; Selenia DI FRONSO; Maurizio BERTOLLO; Radu PREDOIU; Ryszard MAKAROWSKI; Andrzej PIOTROWSKI; Germina COSMA; Romualdas MALINAUSKAS; Zermena VAZNE30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.2Sports psychologyIn the realm of sports performance, coping skills play a pivotal role, particularly within the stressinducing environment of sports. The aim of this research was to explore differences between football athletes who had tested positive for COVID-19 and athletes who had not contracted the virus in terms of their utilization of coping strategies. Additionally, differences among countries were investigated, in the case of football players who had, at some point, battled COVID-19. A total of 147 (one hundred and forty-seven) male football players from five European countries - Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania – took part in this study. To assess coping skills, we employed the Brief COPE questionnaire, which encompassed fourteen coping strategies, grouped into three categories: emotion-oriented coping strategies, problem/task-oriented strategies, and dysfunctional coping strategies. Using the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner pairwise comparison test, the differences between the five countries were scrutinized, starting from the three dependent variables (the grouped coping strategies). Notably, football athletes from Poland and Romania exhibited a higher frequency of employing emotion-focused coping strategies (during the pandemic). Conversely, athletes from Italy leaned towards employing problem-focused strategies more frequently. No significant differences were observed in terms of dysfunctional coping strategies among football players who had battled COVID-19 across the five countries. We discussed the frequency of using coping strategies among football athletes who reported no infection with the SARS-COV-2 virus (up to the 4 th wave of the pandemic) and those who had experienced COVID-19. The findings are of considerable interest to specialists, raising awareness on the coping skills employed by footballers during the pandemic. -
Performance factors in completing a training course in European funds for sport
Anca-Maria IONESCU; Monica STĂNESCU; Rocsana BUCEA-MANEA-ȚONIȘ30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.3European fundsThis research aims to identify the performance factors in completing a training course in European funds by sports managers. Starting from the idea according to which there are features that guide sports specialists towards this area of specialisation, the study highlights that, within the occupational profile, some of these features can be enhanced through a systematic, coherent and consistent intervention in the field of writing European-funded projects. The research methods used in this paper were the following: experiment, testing and mathematical statistics. The study was conducted with a group of 46 people from sports structures in Romania, who attended a training course in European funds for sport, which lasted two months and covered approximately 40 hours in total. The course was designed from the perspective of the Eurodesign theory. The conclusions of the study emphasise that the profile of a highly-effective participant in the training course generally contains elements similar to those of a manager’s profile, but also a number of specific elements. On the other hand, some features considered by us as prerequisites can form the basis for the decision to specialise in this field, while other features, such as the knowledge and skills acquired during the training course, seem to have been decisive for the participants’ professional development. -
Study on the impact of adapted judo practice on individuals with ASD and Down syndrome
Studies on the evolution of participation among individuals with special needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome, in the practice of adapted judo is of growing significance. The practice of adapted Judo tailored to their specific needs can help them overcome challenges and improve their overall physical and mental well-being. The objectives of this study are centred on assessing the importance and outcomes of practicing adapted judo to promote increased integration capabilities. Our research starts from the premise that determining the effects of judo practice on the development of essential skills for social integration and endurance can bolster the integration capacities of people with disabilities. The research encompassed 41 coaches, methodologists, teachers, representatives from basic sports organizations (clubs, associations), and 14 athletes with special needs from the Down Bucharest association. Over a span of 8 months, these athletes actively participated in adapted judo training, attending a minimum of 2 sessions per week. The data collection process employed a variety of methods, including questionnaires, the Sargent test, determination of maximum oxygen consumption, and the plethysmographic method. The study seeks to facilitate the compilation, analysis, and interpretation of data to formulate an effective best practice strategy and methodology for the practice of adapted judo. The ultimate aim is to bridge the communication gap between decision-makers and practitioners, enhancing the overall approach to adapted judo practice. This paper underscores the significance of judo practice in fostering physical development among people with disabilities, particularly those with ASD and Down syndrome. -
The dynamics of the agility manifestation in basketball game during the physical education lesson
Andreea-Mădălina ANASTASIU; Vladimir POTOP; Ilie MIHAI; Andrii CHERNOZUB; Paul-Florinel VIȘAN; Florin COJANU30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.5Physical educationThis paper is meant to investigate the dynamics of the agility manifestation in basketball game, during the physical education lesson for 12-14-year-old students of middle school. This scientific approach entailed the organization of a confirmatory study carried out in the „Mircea cel Bătrân” Middle School of Pitești, Romania. The subjects of the research were 17 schoolgirls aged 12-14 years. The specific speed (agility) and the 5x10 m dribbling shuttle were tested by means of the „Witty” wireless timing electronic system. Measured indices: total time (sec) and time for each 10 m line (Lap). The technical training was evaluated using 3 technical tests from the basketball game. The results of the research show the dynamics of the manifestation indices of the specific speed (agility) in the basketball game for 12-14-year-old schoolgirls, highlighting: the average total time, the weight of the time at each line of 10 m (Lap) and the speed of movement calculated both totally and at each Lap. The technical training results reveal a level of 81.8% in terms of correctness of the executions (within the performed tests). About 30% of the students recorded scores below the group average (referring to the individual performances). The correlation analysis highlight strong connections at p<0.001, with negative values between the investigated indices, which justifies the existence of a mutual influence between variables. Data are useful for physical education teachers and basketball specialists. -
Effects of kinesiotherapy versus hidrokinetic therapy on the rehabilitation of patients with amputation
Vlad-Theodor COTROBAȘ-DASCĂLU; Marius STOICA; Adina Andreea DREVE; Kristo XHARDO; Delia Ramona ARSANI30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.6KinetotherapyThe study aimed to highlight quality of life and identify impact differences in balance rehabilitation for patients with lower limb amputation performing hydrokinetic therapy versus kinesiotherapy programmes. The research participants were 16 male patients aged 40-60 years with lower limb amputation for 6-12 months, who were divided into two groups: the hydrokinetic therapy (HKT) group and the kinesiotherapy (KT) group, whose names reflect the contents of rehabilitation programmes implemented over a 2-week period. The study included two testing phases, an initial and a final one, and used the Four Square Step Test to assess balance and the TAPES questionnaire to assess quality of life. Analysis of the results for the Four Square Step Test aimed at balance rehabilitation indicated 6.125 seconds for the HKT group and 6 seconds for the KT group. It is also found that the rehabilitation of balance and quality of life is effectively achieved by implementing both HKT and KT programmes. The research findings highlight that more attention is paid to changes in the medical condition of patients and how they manage different daily situations and use the prosthesis. We can state that the use of the prosthesis and the medical condition determine a better quality of life than the type of rehabilitation programme applied. -
A ludic history of swimming - a systematic review
Luciela VASILE; Laurențiu TICALĂ; Adrian RĂDULESCU; Ana Maria MUJEA; Costel MATEI; Camelia BRANEȚ; Carmen Luminița ONOIU; Natalia GHEORGHE; Valeria BĂLAN30 June 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.2.7Sports historyPeople have been swimming since ancient times. It held a significant role in the development of great civilizations that were often situated near water sources. This practice, whether pursued for leisure or in a competitive athletic context, has held substantial pragmatic and educational value across continents. Initially, swimming served utilitarian purposes, ensuring the survival of people when crossing bodies of water and reducing the risk of drowning. Given its sanitary function, it was also considered a prophylactic activity, necessary to promote health and prevent health issues stemming from poor hygiene practices. Over time, swimming evolved to encompass instructional, therapeutic, and purely recreational aspects. This paper, through a systematic review of the specialized literature, presents various historical data that reveal not only the importance of swimming, but also illustrates its transformation into an Olympic sport of widespread popularity, accompanied by extensive media coverage. The paper advocates for swimming by narrating its fascinating story, and promoting it as a sport that offers multiple formative and health benefits, unmatched by any other discipline. Swimming has transcended mere relaxation, leisure, and medical recovery, emerging as an excellent way to educate young people. -
Anthropometric measurements and their relationship with technical skills and physical performance in junior basketball players
Hisham ABU TAHA; Majed EL-SALEH; Ligia RUSU30 September 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.3.1Sport performance BasketballAnthropometric features can influence physical performance in pre-adolescent basketballers. On rare occasions, scientific literature has assessed anthropometric changes in performance for this age group. The study aimed to identify the relation between body measurements and skilled-body performance in junior basketballers. The study sample consisted of 60 players from basketball academies in the United Arab Emirates for the sports season 2020-2021. The average age was 14-16 years, with height ranging from 160 to 170 cm. Anthropometric measurements included body mass, length (total/upper/lower body, arm/leg), circumferences (chest/ humeral/ calf circumferences), and shoulder width. Skilled-body performance tests included front shot/ side shot/ free throw/ wall scrolling/ ballrunning test, and vertical jump. Equipment used included an electronic balance for weight (in kilograms) and a measuring tape (in centimetres). After collecting the data, using the SPSS statistical program, and the Person correlation for different length, width, and circumferences measurements, results indicated that there were statistically significant links between front, side, and free throw shot with body measurements. Also, the study found a relationship between wall scrolling and ball running speed tests, and measurements of mass, upper body/ arm length, chest/ calf circumferences, and shoulder width. Anthropometric measurements were very important for skills and body tests. In conclusion, anthropometric traits were found to significantly contribute to the skills and performance of preadolescence players. Trainers are recommended to consider these traits when selecting junior basketball players. It is also recommended that similar studies be conducted with different age groups and genders to compare and generalize the results to basketball union. -
Improving coordination skills in young football players aged 8-10 years
Rafael VIȘAN; Marius STOICA; Adina DREVE30 September 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.3.2Sport performance FootballThe assumptions underlying the current direction of research have been determined by both the decreasing level of the football game in the investigated age group and the failure to exploit the impressive skills that a child aged 8-10 years is able to develop as a result of proper training. In our country, the current game of football for children aged between 8 and 10 years does not focus on the development of their creativity and coordination skills, but predominantly on the systematic tactical game following various predefined play routes. Taking into account the above, we consider it imperative to optimise the coordination skills of young players. The purpose of this research is to improve the level of coordination skills in a team of children aged 8-10 years through means specific to the game of football. During the research, two assessments were performed to determine the level of coordination skills by using the Agility T-Test (BlazePod technology) and Adams Test, which are specific for the assessment of these qualities. The research includes 42 male players aged between 8 and 10 years, as members of two football clubs, namely FC Chelsea Bucharest and FC Tineretul Bucharest. The research methods used are: documentation, experiment, recording, conversation, mathematical statistics and graphical representation. The statistically significant differences allow us to say that the improvements achieved are not random but are also due to the exercise programme intervention. As regards the T-Test specific to coordination skills, an improvement of 0.12 sec is noted for the experimental group and an improvement of only 0.05 sec for the control group. -
Effects of instrumental facial massage and neuromotor stimulation techniques in children with cerebral palsy
Dana MARIN; Ilie ONU; Ana ONU30 September 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.3.3KinetotherapyMastication and swallowing disorders as well as the presence of sialorrhea are some of the severe consequences that often accompany motor disorders in children with cerebral palsy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of applying instrumental facial massage procedures and neuromotor stimulation techniques on orofacial muscles and structures and global motor control in order to improve oral motor functions (mastication and swallowing), reduce sialorrhea and increase the level of motor development. The present study included 10 participants (6 girls and 4 boys) aged 8-10 years diagnosed with cerebral palsy, spastic tetraplegia form with severe orofacial dysfunction. Children were assessed to determine their level of neuromotor development using the GMFCS (Gross Motor Function Classification System) Scale, muscle tone (pathological hypertonia) by means of the Modified Ashworth Scale, mastication and swallowing impairments through the Likert Scale, and sialorrhea using the Thomas-Stonell and Greenberg Scale. The research participants were applied a programme consisting of instrumental facial massage procedures and neuromotor stimulation techniques performed 4 times a week. Statistical results highlighted that the application of instrumental facial massage procedures and neuromotor stimulation techniques within the classic protocol for the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy proved to be effective in the case of the 10 participants, their scores improving at the end of the research compared to those recorded at the beginning of the study. -
Aspects relating to the development of motor skills, strength, and balance in U16 football
Silvia TEODORESCU; Paul SOROCEANU; Toma VASILESCU30 September 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.3.4Sport performance; FootballRegarding the process of development of young athletes, our primary focus is their health. It is widely recognized that a significant injury can slow down the process of development in the best-case scenario, or prematurely end an athlete’s career, in the worst-case scenario. The nature of football introduces a heightened risk of injuries due to its dynamic and unpredictable characteristics. In order to optimize our efforts in the process of preventing these injuries, we believe that the best practice is to understand the pillars on which performance in football is based, and adapt our training plans and sessions to address particular weaknesses. The two pillars that need our full attention are strength and balance. To pinpoint the vulnerabilities of young athletes, we employed two devices to measure both balance and strength in each athlete. A total of two tests were conducted for each athlete, measuring maximal power in the lower body, dynamic balance from one foot to the other, limb asymmetry in terms of muscle strength, and dynamic balance. The study confirmed that neuromuscular control has a key role in the effective utilization of power by the athlete, as in the dynamic balance test, football team B used less power and recorded (at the same time) a lower limb asymmetry score than team A. -
Parents' apreciation of the impact of strategic games introduced in physical education classes
Alina-Valentina HORA; Rela-Valentina CIOMAG30 September 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.3.5Physical educationThe curriculum at the American International School of Bucharest (AISB) centres around the principle of teamwork, serving as the foundation for this study. This research aims to be presented, examined, and refined to engage students actively and emotionally in the instructional process. Essential elements contributing to achieving the proposed objectives involve the use of experimental methods, emphasizing teamwork principles, and creating an environment rooted in safety, trust, engagement, and cooperation. The study assumes that the quality of the teaching process is enhanced through the application of internationally-used strategic games, validated by the perspectives of students, parents, and teachers. We find it appropriate to consider the views of parents, who believe that physical education class is extremely important for both the balanced development of children and its positive effect on their mental health as a result of exercising on a daily basis. A comparative study was conducted between a sample of Romanian middle school children and a sample of AISB students, revealing a multitude of effects induced by internationally-utilized strategic games, including the development of social skills, elimination of stress and intellectual fatigue, improvement of motor skills, and increased knowledge about different sports. These games also promote teamwork, involve all students in learning, and instil an understanding of game rules and sports competition, fostering respect for teammates and opponents. Additionally, strategic games contribute to socialization, fun, relaxation, all within a backdrop of maintaining a positive attitude. -
Research regarding the impact of resistance training on swimming performance
Norbert TRANDAFIR30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.1Sport performance SwimmingThe paper aims to bring to the fore some training methods and equipment that can improve sports performance in swimmers aged 12-14 years. The research, conducted at two swimming centres in Bucharest and Bacău, involved 32 athletes who were divided into two groups as follows: 16 in the experimental group and 16 in the control group. They were elite athletes practising swimming from the age of 5-6 years, 6 to 8 times a week. All of them performed the same in-water training for 14 weeks, but those in the experimental group also used a device to train their respiratory muscles before and after each workout, 3 x 30 inhalations. The research methods used were: literature review, pedagogical observation, experiment, mathematical statistics, and graphical method. The efficiency of the inspiratory muscles was measured using the PowerBreathe K-Series device, which recorded the values of lung capacity, inspiratory muscle strength and power, inspiratory pressure and breathing energy. The obtained results confirm the research hypotheses according to which there is a significant difference (of 36.7%) between the improved times of the two groups in favour of the experimental group, meaning 0.67 hundredths of a second for every 50 m swum in their preferred event after 14 weeks of using the device to train their respiratory muscles. -
Resilience, aggression and risk-taking behavior among Romanian racing drivers - a preliminary study
Radu PREDOIU; Edwin KELETI; Julian FRITSCH; Germina COSMA; Virgil ENE-VOICULESCU; Cristian NOTARU; Alexandra PREDOIU30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.2Sports psychologyIn the literature one can find a few studies on race car drivers. The aim of the research was to highlight the resilience level, the aggression level and risk taking behavior among Romanian race car drivers. 30 athletes participated in the study, rally drivers, athletes practicing competitive hill climb racing, drifting and circuit racing. The Brief Resilience Scale, The Romanian adaptation of the Makarowski's Stimulating and Instrumental Risk Questionnaire and The Romanian adaptation of the Makarowski's Aggression Questionnaire were used. After applying the Kruskal-Wallis H test, no significant differences were emphasized between sports disciplines (circuit, drift, rally and hill climbing), in terms of the psychological variables examined. However, when athletes were investigated according to age and taking into account the reported ability to concentrate and relax before competitions, significant differences were observed. Race car drivers (in the entire sample) over 18 years old registered a higher score for Foul play and Assertiveness, while athletes who reported a moderate level of concentration during competitions and, also, who declared that are less relaxed before contests, obtained higher values for Foul play. The findings provide valuable data regarding the resilience level, aggression and risk-taking behavior of race car drivers, according to age, sports discipline, perceived level of relaxation and concentration, which can guide specialists in the training process. -
The relationship between Big-Five personality factors, thinking style and self-efficacy among sports management students
Georgeta MITRACHE; Elena MIHĂIȚĂ; Sorina CERNĂIANU; Ana-Maria VASILIU; Diana Ligia TUDOR30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.3Sports psychologyThe purpose of this study is to create a psychological profile of students in Sport Management from the National University of Physical Education annd Sports, in terms of the Big Five personality superfactors, Thinking Style (i.e. rational versus irrational beliefs) and (perceived) Efficacy and to study the degree of association between these factors. The following hypotheses were formulated: 1) There are significant correlations between the Big-Five model superfactors (Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability and Autonomy) and Self-efficacy, in the case of Sports Management students; 2) There are significant correlations between the Big-Five model superfactors (Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability and Autonomy) and Thinking Style: Irrational Cognitions (Demandingness in the form of ’musts’, Low Frustration Tolerance, Self-Downing and/or global evaluation, Global Score Attitudes and Beliefs) in the case of students in the Sport Management Specialization; 3)There are significant correlations between Self-Efficacy and Thinking Style (i.e. Irrational Cognitions: Demandingness in the form of ’musts’, Low frustration tolerance, Awfulizing, Self-downing and /or global evaluation, Attitudes and Beliefs Global score) in the case of Sport Management students. The participants in the research were 39 students in the Sports Management Specialization (28.21% female and 71.79% male) aged 19-23 years. The 5 Factor Personality Questionnaire (CP5F) and Attitudes and Beliefs Scale-II (ABS-II), both from the Computerized Platform for Psychological Assessment (CAS++), S.C.Cognitrom S.R.L. and the Self-Efficacy Scale (Schwarzer & Jerusalem) were applied. The correlates study led to confirmation of all three hypotheses. -
Assessing coordination abilities in Romanian water polo players aged 10-12 using the Bruininks-Oseretsky test battery
Costel MATEI; Luciela Maria VASILE; Alina Daniela MOANȚĂ; Ana Maria MUJEA; Laurențiu TICALĂ; Bogdan GOZU; Iulius Radulian MĂRGĂRIT30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.4Water polo performanceThe main purpose of the study is to assess the development level of coordination abilities in 61 water polo players aged 10-12 years using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (BOT-2). This test battery was designed for specialists, providing them with an effective and reliable tool to measure fine and gross motor skills. After analysing the test battery, we applied only five out of the eight subtests (the other three were considered irrelevant for the game of water polo). The tests used in our study aimed at measuring: fine motor precision (FMP), fine motor integration (FMI), bilateral coordination (BC), balance (BAL), upper limb coordination (ULC). The results were statistically interpreted using IBM SPSS v. 12, SmartPLS and Microsoft Excel. We chose these programs for their accurate calculation of mean differences between the obtained scores but also for their interpretations of the t-Test at the significance thresholds required for each subtest. Most of the selected athletes achieved below-average scores for: FMI (score = 2.54), BC (score = 2.85), BAL (score = 2.84), FMP (score = 3.07), ULC (score = 3.23). In order to achieve superior performance, athletes whose scale score is 20-24 and ideally over 25 should be selected. In conclusion, the testing provided essential and relevant information on the level of manifestation of coordination abilities in athletes, allowing specialists to implement specific exercises for the development of coordination abilities in the training process. -
Anthropometric status and macronutrient intake of bodybuilding athletes in Limpopo province, South Africa
Sylven MASOGA; Elmine DUTOIT; Frederik COETZEE; Robert SCHALL30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.5NutritionBodybuilders in Limpopo Province adhere to various training and dietary routines to attain their desired physique. However, the anthropometric status and macronutrient intake of these athletes remain unknown. A total of ninety-three bodybuilders from the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, who were members of IFBBSA, participated in the study. Ethics approval was granted by the University of the Free State Health Science. Athletes signed informed consent before participation Measurements of weight and height were taken to calculate body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), and body fat percentage (BF%). Three 24-hour-recall questionnaires were completed. The SAMRC FoodFinder-3 was used to analyse macronutrients, with the mean values considered. Data were exported to the SPSS (v28), and descriptive statistics were applied. Pearson’s correlation test was used to determine the relationship between variables. The BMI was 25.8±4.4 kg/m2 in males and 24.9±3.6 kg/m2 in females, while MUAC was 35.6 cm for males and 28.3 cm for females. About half of both genders exhibited excess BF% (9.9% for males and 17.3% for females). Most males (81.6%) and all females had acceptable WC. Energy intake was 148 kJ/kg/day and 142 kJ/kg/day while carbohydrate intake was 4.7 g/kg/day for males and 4.3 g/kg/day for females. Fat intake was high in both genders. However, protein intake was optimal in males (1.4 g/kg/day) and suboptimal in females (1.1 g/kg/day). About half of the bodybuilders exceeded the sport-specific recommendations for BF%. However, the energy and carbohydrate intakes were suboptimal, while protein and fat intakes were optimal and high respectively. -
The levels of social behaviour and involvement in sports activities in Targoviște municipality
Ciprian PRISĂCARU; Gheorghe FLUCUȘ; Andrei Claudiu TUDOR30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.6Sports activitiesThe purpose of the research was to highlight the correlations between the level of social behaviour and the level of involvement in sports activities for citizens living in the neighbourhoods of Târgoviște municipality. The study was carried out from October 2022 to February 2023 and involved a sample of 368 people from Târgoviște municipality, of which 84 men and 284 women. The research took place in the 12 neighbourhoods of Târgoviște municipality: Centre, Suseni, Matei Voievod, Micro 3, Micro 4, Micro 5, Micro 6, Micro 9, Micro 11, Micro 12, Aleea Trandafirilor and CFR (Micro 2 neighbourhood is included in Suseni, and Prepeleac area is included in Micro 11). As part of the research, a questionnaire was applied to find out respondents’ opinions on their degree of involvement in both social life and sports activities. The research results showed the existence of a statistically significant correlation (r = 0.542; p < 0.001) between the level of social behaviour and the level of involvement in sports activities. The study reveals that men participate in sports activities in a significantly higher proportion than women. On the other hand, civic behaviour is at significantly lower levels among young people aged 19-30 and under 18 than among older people. In addition, significantly lower levels of civic/social behaviour were observed among those who did not participate in sports activities at all, compared to those who were involved in such activities.
ISSN (online) 2286 – 3702
ISSN–L 1454 – 3907
Granted by the National Library of Romania
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