Items
-
Statistical analysis of the Champions League winning team in the 2022-2023 competition season
Cristina VĂRZARU; Cătălin Octavian MĂNESCU30 December 202310.35189/dpeskj.2023.62.4.7Sport performance HandballThe research analyses the performance of the CSM Bucharest women’s team during the current competition season across all four competitions in which the team participates. At the time of the paper’s elaboration, 38 games had been played, and the analysis of the games was conducted by reviewing recorded matches, scrutinizing the "match papers" completed by the team's assistant coach in real time during each game, and also using the statistics provided by the European Handball Federation and the Romanian Handball Federation. Offense performance: The team averaged 57 possessions per game, scoring an average of 31.5 goals with an overall shooting efficiency of 53%. Out of a total of 1224 goals scored, when analysing the goals scored by each player from the perspective of the position occupied in the field, left-back players accounted for the highest percentage at 28%. Left wing players and right back players scored 15% each, closely followed by the line players, with 14%. The middle back player scored 8% of all goals, the same percentage being registered also for the penalty shoots. Défense performance: The team achieved an average saving percentage of 34,5%. The average number of goals received per game was 26.2. Out of 996 received goals, the team r -
ENHANCING STRENGTH CAPACITY FOR TRIATHLON COMPETITORS
Andrei Vladimir MARICA; Marius STOICA; Adina Andreea DREVE30 March 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.1.6Triathlon is a sport that combines three different disciplines: swimming, cycling and running. Athletes have to cover varying distances in each discipline and move quickly from one to the next, making triathlon an extremely demanding sport. This research aims to develop and implement a training program with athletic means in order to optimize the strength capacity of triathletes. This papersought to identify statistically significant differences between the results recorded by the participants, i.e. the performance of athletes at the beginning and end of the study, following an experimental intervention. The present research was carried out with the participation of 3 male athletes, aged between 20 and 36 years (m = 26), from the triathlon sports branch, with over 4 years of competitive experience, competitor in the National Championship. Strength evaluation was conducted using the Optojump system in the case of the participants who performed one test: Left and Right Leg Jumps (5 jumps). Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed significant differences between the initial and final results for explosive strength, indicating that the improvements were not random but were due to the experimental intervention. The training program had a significantly positive impact on the participants' strength capacity and overall performance. -
A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF PERFORMANCE SWIMMING DROPOUT IN ROMANIA
The purpose of this study is to determine the fluctuation in the number of swimmers participating in the national competitive system between 2012 and 2021. Additionally, the paper aims to identify the age group with the highest dropout rate. We conducted a thorough analysis of the Romanian Swimming and Modern Pentathlon Federation’s databases within the Ministry of Sports for the years 2012 to 2021. This analysis focused on the number of annually registered swimmers and participants in the national competitive system across the following age categories: children, cadets/juniors/youth, and seniors. The study reveals a decline in the number of participants in swimming competitions, particularly among senior athletes. This decline can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, academic pressures, lack of support and resources, and evolving interests and priorities. These factors collectively contribute to the challenge of retaining athletes in the sport as they progress from junior to senior swimming categories. The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had profound consequences for communities worldwide, prompting extensive restrictions across various sectors, including sports. Notably, major decisions by international governing such as FINA (International Swimming Federation) have resulted in the postponement or cancellation of significant swimming events. Additionally, the unprecedented decision by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics to July 23 - August 8, 2021, reflects the severity of the situation. -
STUDY ON THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Carpal tunnel syndrome has long been considered a pathology requiring surgical intervention. Over the years, therapeutic management has become increasingly complex, with improvements observed in patients benefiting from orthopedic, surgical, ergotherapeutic and physiotherapeutic treatments, tailored to individual possibilities. The objective of this case study is to observe whether individualized and adapted kinetic treatment based on specific, nonspecific and comprehensive means, succeeds in optimizing the results within the QuickDASH-Score for a 64-year-old patient following surgical intervention for carpal tunnel syndrome. The QuickDASH analyses physical function, pain and other symptoms associated with various types of upper limb musculoskeletal pathologies and disorders. The initial evaluation score was 47 points, with the physiotherapy program carried out over a six-months period. The main objectives included pain, edema, and inflammation control; enhancing joint range of motion within physiological limits in affected areas; preventing muscle-tendon retractions; and fostering independence in daily activities. The final evaluation had 32 points, signifying a 15-point improvement and achievement of the objective, resulting in enhanced quality of life. Physiotherapy in carpal tunnel syndrome is a meticulously applied treatment that alleviates specific symptoms. It's crucial to educate patients on how physiotherapy contributes to full functional recovery, as premature ending can have significant adverse effects on quality of life. -
QUALITY OF LIFE IN YOUNG ROMANIAN ATHLETES
Alexandra PREDOIU; Iulian STĂNESCU; Constantin Bogdan MATEI; Cornel Laurențiu MINCU; Germina COSMA; Andreas HNIATIUC; Iulian DINU; Radu PREDOIU30 March 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.1.3Quality of life means different things to different people, according, also, to the area of application. The aim of the research was to capture the quality of life experienced by young athletes, according to gender, sport performance, and related to the type of sport practiced. 116 athletes participated in the research, practicing individual and team sports. Starting from the Quality of Life Inventory developed by Michael B. Frisch, fifteen life domains were measured. After applying the t test for independent samples, no gender-related differences were observed in terms of perceived quality of life. However, athletes practicing individual sports were significantly more satisfied by their work and creativity (manifested in daily activities), and, also, regarding love and children (as life domains), compared to athletes practicing team sports. Using one-way analysis of variance, the experienced life quality according to the practiced type of sport (football, other team sports, striking combat sports, respectively other individual sports) was examined. Furthermore, data analysis emphasized that athletes with international results express significantly higher levels of satisfaction regarding their self-esteem in life domains such as love and children, compared to athletes who attain local or regional performances. Additionally, they exhibit significantly greater satisfaction with their creativity in daily activities but express less satisfaction with their community, compared to athletes achieving national-level sports results. The findings provide important data to coaches, multi-disciplinary team members and parents on the areas of quality of life that athletes are currently more or less satisfied with. In-depth interviews with athletes are necessary to better understand the differences observed. -
EFFICIENCY OF WILLIAM’S VERSUS McKENZIE’S THERAPY FOR PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH LOW BACK PAIN
Denisa PIELE; Ligia RUSU; Mirela Lucia CALINA; Mihnea MARIN30 March 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.1.2From the category of musculoskeletal disorders, lumbar pathology registered a 50% increase between 1990 and 2019, directly correlated with an age decrease for the onset of symptoms among patients diagnosed with lumbar pain. Consequently, we are witnessing a younger population experiencing lumbar pain and at times, functional disability. According to statistical analysis, the economic impact of low back pain (LBP) in highly industrialized countries produces costs of up to 134 billion dollars annually. In this context, the appropriate therapeutic approach of LBP becomes a factor of major interest. This review uses 137 primary articles and specialized literature published between 2010-2022. Article selection was based on keywords and focused on comparing the effectiveness of William's and McKenzie's exercises. As the two rehabilitation programs are founded on different principles - William's therapy emphasizes flexion exercises while McKenzie's therapy focuses on extension exercises - patient assessment was conducted using evaluation scales. The evaluation employed the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Index (OSLBPDI), and the Short Form 36 (SF 36). The comparative analysis revealed modified scale scores following completion of the therapeutic protocol: 50-65% reduction in pain, 10-40 % increase in flexibility, and significant improvement in mental state. Based on these findings, an advancement in the patient’s condition can be observed for both William’s and McKenzie protocols. Nonetheless, the reviewed articles underscore the importance of selecting and adapting the therapeutic approach to the characteristics of lumbar pain. -
THE ROLE OF STREET DANCE IN DEVELOPING PSYCHOMOTOR SKILLS AND CREATIVITY OF STUDENTS
Eduard DUMITRU; Virgil TUDOR; Nicoleta DUMITRU; Monica STĂNESCU; Liliana DINA30 March 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.1.1Given the premise that dance is an activity suitable for integration in Physical Education and Sport classes, we aimed to test this by implementing teaching projects incorporating elements of Street Dance. Similar to other sports, which rely on motor skills and actions, only in this case mostly performed to music, Street Dance can bring countless benefits to a person's life. Whether we are talking about psychomotor or cognitive skills, the literature argues that dance can be a valuable tool for improving them. Considering the novelty that Street Dance represents, and its ongoing evolution, coupled with the increasing attraction of young people to this dance style, we considered this research to be beneficial. The study was carried out in a secondary school in Bucharest, Sector 3, and the 17 participants were 8th grade students. As part of the research, we used the RCMV computerized test, which helped us to investigate the reactivity, hand-foot coordination and vigilance of the subjects. Also, creativity was explored through a test consisting of geometric figures, adapted by Mihaela Roco. The statistically significant differences (Wilcoxon test was used) allow us to say that the improvements achieved are not random, but are also due to the exercise programme intervention. -
THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALIFIED PERSONNEL IN THE FIELD OF SPORT MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING
Sport has diversified a lot according to social-individual and group interests, and because it is integrated into the lives of the members of a society that it influences, the sports movement becomes a social problem of national interest, taking into account the growing number of participants. The current situation of Romanian sport is a starting point to conduct a study that can lead to increasing its efficiency. If we examine the sports clubs in Spain, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania through the prism of the two concepts, namely sports legislation and sport as a consumer product with the two branches of management and marketing, and if we analyse the forms of organization or the qualification level of the employed personnel, we will notice a tremendous difference. An analysis of some football clubs in Spain, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania was carried out to see their financial outcomes from marketing activities, their sporting results at European level and the level of existence of a department with qualified personnel experienced in management and marketing within these clubs. Making a synthesis of the organization and management of sports clubs in different European countries and an analogy with the situation in Romania, an enormous gap was identified. Most European states have understood that sport is an engine for the economic development of a society and thus started many years ago to design development programmes for qualified human resources, understanding their crucial role in the future success of sports clubs. -
ASCERTAINING STUDY ON SOMATIC, MOTOR AND TECHNICAL ASSESSMENTS IN JUNIOR BASKETBALL TO IDENTIFY SPECIFIC STANDARDS
Miruna Elena TRIFAN; Marius STOICA; Adina Andreea DREVE30 June 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.2.5Basketball is a sport with predominantly aerobic requirements and high-intensity anaerobic requirements. In recent years, this characteristic has changed in terms of demands on the player and intensity of the competition, involving an increase in the number and duration of explosive actions. The purpose of this paper was to determine the motor, somatic and technical levels of U14 players in order to make up the expanded junior team of Romania. To identify the values specific to the age of 14, three trials were organised over the course of a year. As a result, 49 athletes from all over the country were selected and tested, and then they followed centralised training sessions within the expanded national junior team of Romania. The somatic and motor test battery consisted of: body weight (kg), body height (cm), body mass index (BMI), arm span, 10 m sprint, 20 m sprint, 3 x 10 m shuttle run, standing long jump, vertical jump, t-Test, Beep Test, Little Marathon, hip mobility, and universal throw. The research methods used in this paper were: literature review, observation, mathematical statistics, tabular method and graphical method. The research results were compared with international values. In conclusion, the current somatic and motor potential of junior basketball players does not fit into the models developed at a national and international level, given that their performance was poorer, therefore our hypothesis is not validated. -
ASSESSING COORDINATION IN OPEN- AND CLOSED-SKILL SPORTS – MARTIAL ARTISTS AND SPRINT ATHLETES
Radu PREDOIU; Rareș STĂNESCU; Mathias ALBERTON; VIOREL LIXANDRU; Ionuț Alexandru CIUDOIU; Andrei Vladimir MARICA; Alexandru Daniel ION; Germina COSMA30 June 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.2.4For any sporting activity to be effective, movement coordination is essential. The purpose of this research was to explore the strengths and weaknesses of male athletes practicing open- and closed-skill sports, in terms of intersegmental coordination. It also examined differences related to the type of sport and athletes' performance, based on the results for intersegmental coordination results. The study involved 49 male athletes, some practicing martial arts (boxing and jiu-jitsu) and some practicing sprinting (100 meters). The RCMV computerized test, developed by the Romanian company RQ Plus, was used to assess intersegmental coordination. First, the study highlighted strengths and weaknesses in terms of intersegmental coordination in the case of the investigated open- and closed-skills sports (using one-sample t-test). Next, sport-related differences in coordination were explored, with the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner post-hoc test for multiple comparisons. Not least, the study assessed whether athletes’ results for intersegmental coordination were significantly related to their sports performance. The findings revealed that boxing athletes had better scores in choice reaction time than sprint athletes, and also outperformed male jiu-jitsu athletes in terms of resistance to disruptive factors in tasks requiring coordination. However, sprint athletes made significantly fewer errors when coordinating their movements quickly and steadily, compared to both boxing and jiu-jitsu athletes. Learning capacity or the coordination of upper and lower limbs in new, unfamiliar conditions was found to be essential for martial arts athletes, aiming for high sports performances -
TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGES IN INACTIVE WOMEN INDUCED BY VARIOUS WELLNESS PROGRAMS
Nebojša JOTOV; Željko RAJKOVIĆ; Vladimir MILETIĆ; Darko MITROVIĆ30 June 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.2.3Hypokinesia has reached pandemic levels globally. In response, numerous wellness programs have been developed as potential solutions to this issue. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two different threemonth experimental wellness programs. The sample consisted of 56 inactive women (aged 30-40), divided into two experimental groups (E1, N=28; E2, N=28). Group E1 participated in an aqua aerobics program (3 sessions per week, 45 minutes each), for 12 weeks. Group E2, followed a workplace wellness program that included Fit ball exercises (3 sessions per week, 15 minutes each), along with relaxation massages (3 sessions per week, 10 minutes each) for 12 weeks. The results of the t-test for the experimental group E1 (aqua aerobics) showed a significant difference between the initial and final measurements for all tested variables (vital capacity, systolic arterial blood pressure, diastolic arterial blood pressure, heart rate at rest, working pulse, Romberg’s test, Stanga’s test, and relative oxygen consumption). The t-test results of the experimental group E2 (fit-ball with relaxation massage) show a significant difference in all tested variables, with the exception of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The analysis of the differences between the experimental groups (E1 and E2) showed a significant difference in favour of group E1 at the final test, except for systolic and diastolic blood pressure and relative oxygen consumption. Applied experimental models of wellness programs represent a good instrument for optimizing the functional abilities of inactive women aged 30-40. -
TRAINING STRENGTH AND SPEED IN LOCAL POLICE OFFICERS
Strength training is a fundamental component of physical training activities targeting the employees of the Romanian Police and Local Police. Strength, speed and endurance are basic physical qualities involved in the proper conduct of police missions. As gatekeepers of the criminal justice system, police officers are usually the first to encounter crime victims. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical training program in terms of enhancing strength and speed among local police officers. Ten local police members participated in the study, which examines how a three-month physical training program, carried out in 2021, can improve muscle strength and running speed (50 meters). A paired sample t-test was used to assess the differences between the initial and final evaluations. The results indicated significant improvements - following the course of the educational curriculum - in the field of general physical training/in the field of self-defence, related to the initial training course of local police officers. Improvements were recorded in the values of all investigated indicators, including muscle mass, punching strength, and 50-meter running speed. The study discusses the implications, emphasizing that strength should be periodically trained, and force used gradually - and only when necessary - to prevent illegal actions that could endanger the lives or safety of police officers or others. -
THE IMPORTANCE OF CARDIAC REHABILITATION FOR PATIENTS WITH SURGICALLY CORRECTED VALVULOPATHIES
Radu-Valentin CHIȚĂ; Mariana CORDUN; Mircea BRATU; Cozeta-Anca MINCULESCU; Mario DI CARLO30 June 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.2.1In the specialized literature, valvulopathies are defined as functional or organic conditions affecting one or more heart valves, disrupting their ability to open or close properly and affecting the heart's overall function. During surgery, the diseased heart valve is replaced with a prosthesis using extracorporeal circulation. Currently, the most commonly used prostheses are biological and mechanical. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of patients with surgically corrected valvulopathies, primarily due to its beneficial effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, which help ensure functional independence. In the late 1970s, Dr. Nanette Wenger proposed the first cardiac rehabilitation program. This program recommended, for the first time, early mobilization of the patient, aiming to transition the patient from a supine position to sitting and eventually to moving within 14 days. The purpose of this study is to present and implement a cardiac rehabilitation program, as well as to analyse its effects based on the results obtained from monitoring and evaluating selected patients. The conclusions of this study validate the research hypothesis that the application of a cardiac rehabilitation program leads to an increase in effort capacity (and, consequently, the quality of life), in patients with valvulopathies surgically corrected by minimally invasive techniques. -
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS WITH VOSVIEWER: RESEARCH TRENDS IN SPORT MANAGEMENT WITHIN EUROPEAN FOOTBALL
Narcis RĂDUCAN; Viorel COJOCARU; Andrei Constantin TÎRNOVANU31 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.6Sport management is a rapidly expanding field of study that produces a growing body of academic literature. Using bibliometric analysis, data from the Web of Science database and VOSviewer software, this paper attempts to provide a general overview of the field and highlights the consensus among academics. The analysis found that Web of Science published 156 unique articles. It also seeks to pinpoint the key subjects that brought together the research on European football sport management, as well as the most important clusters and emerging trends of study in this field. The multidisciplinary nature of the topic is reflected in the Web of Science categories associated with the articles: Hospitality, Leisure, Sport, Tourism, followed by Management. The following subject areas registered, also, significant results in terms of number of articles: Sport Sciences, Business and Economics. In considering publishers, the highest number of articles were released under the auspices of Taylor & Francis, Emerald, MDPI, Elsevier and Sage. From a practical perspective, the study helps sport managers become more situational aware by emphasizing the critical issues and assisting them in identifying research gaps for further academic exploration. This closes the feedback loop between theory and practice. -
EMOTIONAL STABILITY AND AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOUR AMONG ROMANIAN FOOTBALL PLAYERS
Ionut Alexandru ISCRU; Santiago PASSEG; Laura Rodica GIURGIU30 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.5The study of personality has gained increasing significance, with scientific insights now presented through a complex, multifactorial model. In contexts such as performance, leisure activities, and health-related sports, personality acts as a mediating factor that connects cognitive and emotional skills to a range of behavioural outcomes, including aggressive behaviour. The primary objective of this study is to explore the relationship between emotional stability as a personality trait and aggressive behaviour among Romanian soccer players. Data was collected from a sample of 60 soccer players (N = 60), divided into two groups. One group comprised professional footballers playing in regional or national competitions, while the other group consisted of local amateur players practicing football in their spare time. The information in the study is quantitative and based on data collected from two questionnaires: the Five-Factor Personality Inventory (FFPI), and the Romanian adaptation of the Makarowski Aggression Questionnaire. A positive correlation was identified between the Emotional Stability and Assertiveness scales. Furthermore, a comprehensive data analysis revealed a significant difference in the Foul Play scale based on the athletes’ age. These findings offer important insights into the interplay between emotional stability and aggressive behaviour among football players, providing valuable implications for player development strategies and the management of aggressive behaviour in sports. However, further research is necessary to deepen the understanding of these relationships. -
NUTRITIONAL PRACTICES OF AEROBIC DANCE ATHLETES IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE: SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED?
Gerald Pabalelo MPHAFUDI; Makoma Melicca BOPAPE; Sylven MASOGA30 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.4Aerobic dance athletes in Limpopo province follow various nutritional practices, some of which may pose health risks. However, the specifics of these practices have not been clearly documented until now. A descriptive, cross-sectional study recruited 66 part-time aerobic dance athletes from Limpopo. Ethical clearance and written consent were obtained from Turfloop Research Ethics Committee and the athletes. Data was gathered on the characteristics of athletes, including their age, gender, and training profiles. The dietary intake and nutrient timing were collected using multiple (two) 24-hour-recall questionnaires. Energy and macronutrients data were loaded onto the South African Medical Research Council Food Finder and average values were considered for further analysis. All data were then loaded onto SPSS (v.26) for descriptive tests analysis to report the nutritional practices of athletes. A p-value of ≤0.005 was a criterion set for variables to be significant to each other. Female athletes dominated (78.8%), with a majority (63.6%) training 1 – 2 hours daily. Nearly half (46.3%) of the athletes consumed energy (70.1±16.6 kcal/kg) excessively, while fat intake (0.6±0.4 g/kg) was optimal (54.5%). Carbohydrates (2.3±1.3 g/kg) and protein (0.9±0.6 g/kg) were consumed suboptimally by 89.3% and 69.6% of athletes respectively. In general, athletes (63.6%) ate 3 – 4 meals per day. The majority (81.8%) did not consume any food before exercise, while 83.3% hydrated with water during exercise. About 65.1% ate within an hour after exercise. There was no significant correlation between energy and macronutrient intake and sports nutrition practices. Nutritional practices of aerobic dance athletes diverged from established sports nutrition recommendations. -
USING THE BACKFIX METHOD TO REHABILITATE ATHLETES’ INJURY IN TRIPLE JUMP – A CASE STUDY
Lenuța DRAGOMIR; Daniela SCHOR; Vladimir SCHOR; Monica STĂNESCU30 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.3The triple jump is a complex athletic event where performance relies on a combination of speed, strength, and advanced technique in executing the three phases that form the biomechanics of the event. Due to the specific forces exerted on the athlete's musculoskeletal system, along with potential weaknesses in physical training, athletes are at risk of injury. This case study presents the original approach used to rehabilitate and prevent new injuries usually experienced by the Romanian athlete G.R.C., a 25-year-old European junior vice-champion in the triple jump. He sought treatment at the MediSport SRL clinic for multiple chronic and acute injuries that were limiting his performance. Comprehensive clinical and functional evaluations revealed all these limitations, prompting an integrated approach to his rehabilitation and training program. After the kinesitherapy program consisting of 18 sessions focused on functional musculoskeletal balancing using an electronic dynamometer, a key component of the BackFix system and method, important improvements were observed in core stability, static balance, and posture. Additionally, muscle strength in the previously deficient areas increased, pain disappeared in all affected regions, and recovery time after competitive effort improved, laying the foundation for optimal performance in the 2024 summer season. The successful use of the BackFix method leads us to recommend it as an alternative to other traditional training and recovery methods, while also encouraging further research into its application in the triple jump and other sports branches. -
MANUAL OROFACIAL STIMULATION AND ITS IMPACT ON CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY
Dana MARIN; Elena CĂCIULAN; Aura BOTA; Carmen GHERGHEL30 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.2Orofacial education of children with cerebral palsy is a long-lasting process that requires perseverance especially from their families. The main methods based on active orofacial exercises and those from speech therapy continue to question the effectiveness of oral motor treatment, leaving a gap in the literature concerning the feeding skills improvements of the children diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Based on this concern, we ask ourselves the question: are there other better methods of oral motor rehabilitation for these children with special needs? In this study we aimed to investigate, within the complex rehabilitation programme for CP, the impact of manual orofacial stimulation in order to reduce sialorrhea and improve mandibular movements, which play an important role in the feeding process. The study included 10 participants (5 girls and 5 boys), aged 8-10 years, diagnosed with cerebral palsy, spastic tetraplegia form with severe orofacial impairment and the intervention protocol consisted of a manual orofacial stimulation programme 4 times a week. Statistical results revealed that the application of the proposed orofacial stimulation programme was highly effective for the 10 research participants, whose scores improved significantly at the final assessment compared to those achieved at the beginning of the study, reaching almost normal values even in the case of mandibular parameters. -
THE RELATION BETWEEN AN ANTI-DOPING EDUCATION PROGRAM AND RISK FACTORS FOR DOPING SUBSTANCES USE
Claudia BERBECARU; Luciela VASILE; Doina CROITORU; Rareș STĂNESCU30 September 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.3.1Sports education has the role of promoting ethical values and behaviors, thus contributing to the protection of athletes and the development of sports activities. Its necessity is indisputable given that the antidoping tests carried out at the national level, in different categories of athletes, have highlighted violations of the anti-doping rules, including at the junior level. For this reason, between April and May 2023, a study was conducted that aimed to highlight the influence of risk factors for doping behavior at the level of junior athletes (14-16 years old), in relation to the effectiveness of an anti-doping education program. The study was conducted at the National College Emil Racoviță from Bucharest, with 22 student-athletes, practitioners of various sports disciplines. From the analysis of the obtained data it resulted the fact that a series of accumulated knowledge and learned behavioral characteristics do not provide sufficient support in the anti-doping fight or consistent positive changes in the attitude to resist the temptation to use banned substances. Under certain conditions and under the influence of the entourage, especially the coach, athletes show an average willingness to use prohibited substances. The results of this intervention show us that there is a need for the development of a future anti-doping educational curriculum, for the training of the moral skills necessary for athletes to resist the temptation to use prohibited substances in sports. -
ANXIETY LEVEL AND FOOTBALL PLAYERS' PERCEPTION REGARDING THE IMPORTANCE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL PREPARATION
Alexandra PREDOIU; Sorin Mirel CIOLCĂ; Cristina ȘTEFAN30 December 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.4.5Success in football demands a wide range of qualities, going beyond just physical abilities and technical proficiency. The purpose of our research was to investigate the perception of both male and female football players regarding the importance of psychological preparation, as well as to know their level of competitive anxiety. A total of 72 football players, aged between 14 and 37 years have participated in the study, 37 boys and 35 girls. To assess the football players’ perception regarding the most important characteristics that facilitate athletic performance, an opinion questionnaire PQ-F (Psychological Qualities Necessary in Football) was used and, in order to investigate the competitive anxiety, a modified version of the Competitive Anxiety Questionnaire in Sport (developed by Rainer Mertens) was applied. First, we investigated whether there are significant differences between football players (according to gender, age and sports performance) in terms of the perceived importance of different psychological qualities that condition performance. Next, it was verified whether the competitive anxiety of football players varies significantly based on the importance they assign to psychological training. The statistical analysis, using the t-test for two independent samples, revealed interesting findings depending on gender, age, and sporting achievements regarding the perception of the importance of various psychological qualities that condition performance and also, about the competitive anxiety level. The conclusions provide important information to athletes, coaches, sports psychologists, regarding the specific cognitive schemes of juniors and seniors, girls and boys, in connection with the psychic phenomena that condition performance in football. -
ANALYSIS OF HANDGRIP STRENGTH DISPARITIES AND MANUAL ASYMMETRY IN PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Priscyla PRAXEDES; Sara PEREIRA; José MAIA; Olga VASCONCELOS30 December 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.4.4Hand asymmetry can be influenced by both biological and environmental factors, emerges early, and impacts motor skills and human development. Physical differences between boys and girls during childhood, such as body composition, may influence hand strength and asymmetry. Aims: This study examines handgrip strength and asymmetry in Portuguese children aged 6 to 10. Data from the RUSH project comprises 1504 children (760 girls) aged 6-10. Right-hand preference was observed in 90.9% of girls and 89.8% of boys. Manual grip was assessed using a handheld dynamometer (T.K.K. 5401). Descriptive statistics are presented as means and standard deviations. Within each sex, a one-way ANOVA was used to test for age-related differences, and the LSD test was used for post hoc multiple comparisons. All analyses were conducted using SPSS software version 29, with the significance level set at 5%. Older children were stronger in both hands (girls – preferred: F=101.682, p<0.001; non-preferred: F=100.589, p<0.001; boys – preferred: F=69.419, p<0.001; nonpreferred: F=67.867, p<0.001). Significant differences in hand asymmetry were also observed between age groups in both girls (F=4.892, p<0.05) and boys (F=7.764, p<0.05). Specifically, it was found that girls aged 6 and 10 and boys aged 10 had higher asymmetry values than those aged 6, 7, 8, and 9. Hand strength and asymmetry appear to change with older children showing greater discrepancies between preferred and nonpreferred hands. Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms behind these differences. -
COMBINING WEIGHT TRAINING WITH PLYOMETRIC TRAINING IN WOMEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS
Women’s artistic gymnastics is supposed to be a sport of grace and beauty. The way gymnastics is practiced nowadays has made us change our perspective on how the training of female gymnasts should be regarded. Current exercises contain elements of great difficulty, which cannot be performed efficiently without appropriate physical training. This physical training has a dual role: on the one hand, it predisposes the body to high and very high efforts, and on the other hand, it prevents injuries that may occur during training or competitions. In the training methodology of gymnasts worldwide, weight training has been used for some time. Therefore, we decided to introduce high-load weight training combined with plyometric training in the workouts of Romanian female gymnasts. The research presents a 22-week program combining the two strength development methods, the results obtained before and after program implementation, how the loads were adapted during the experiment, and the way of applying the proposed program. The results of the experiment encourage us to continue applying this program as a training method for future competitions. It is worth mentioning that, when establishing training loads in this sport, the specifics of each apparatus should be taken into account, as their demands are different, and a proper understanding of the real training stimulus might require more than just the number of repetitions and training loads. -
SPEED OPTIMIZATION STRATEGIES FOR U16 FOOTBALL PLAYERS: METHODS AND IMPACT
Florin SUCIU; Nicoleta LEONTE; Teodora WESSELLY; Ofelia POPESCU; Alin Mihăiță SĂFTEL30 December 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.4.2Knowledge and development of speed indices have always been important concerns in the field of elite sport. Understanding the effects of specific exercises for speed optimisation has a positive impact not only on athletic performance, but also on overall health. The purpose of the present research is to make a comparative analysis of the dynamics of speed parameters following the application of intervention programmes to the players of two football clubs and then check the effectiveness of the means used to achieve the proposed objectives. The experimental research tested 36 members of two football clubs registered in the National Championship, namely Concordia Chiajna Football Academy (18 players) and FC Voluntari (18 players). The effects produced by the application of speed optimisation programmes were checked using the Witty System Speed Test (5 m, 20 m, 30 m) and the Illinois Agility Test. The data were collected at both the beginning and end of the training period (pretest-test). The research results highlight the dynamics of speed indices in the football game for U16 juniors. Thus, the independent variable used in the research produced significant improvements in the physical training of junior players for the 5 m sprint event and the Illinois Agility Test. For the 20 m and 30 m running events, there were no significant increases, but between the two testing sessions, the experimental group recorded some improvements. The data obtained from the research can be of practical use in the training of both elite and school teams. -
ASSESSMENT OF DYNAMIC BALANCE IN PEOPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME
Valeria BĂLAN; Corina ȚIFREA; Raluca COSTACHE; Carmen GHERGHEL; Ana Maria MUJEA17 December 202410.35189/dpeskj.2024.63.4.1The ability to maintain a stable position of the body in motion and in different positions influences all motor actions. A low level of dynamic balance causes problems related to motor skills both in daily activities and for learning sport-specific motor skills. This paper aims to assess dynamic balance in people with Down syndrome before and after attending a specially designed education program applied during training lessons. Balance education was also achieved through the sport of bocce, which was played by the participants in this study. The research involved 14 athletes (aged 20.29 ± 2.74 years) with Down syndrome (IQ below 75) who participated in bocce training over three months. The assessment was performed using the OptoJump device for the 30-second march-in-place test during two stages. A number of anthropometric measurements were also used, namely: height (162.29 ± 10.57 cm), weight (69.08 ± 13.96 kg), body mass index (26.22 ± 4.94 kg/m2) and foot length (23.94 ± 5.17 cm). Between the two testing sessions, people with Down syndrome took part in bocce lessons during which they performed various specific exercises to educate their dynamic balance. In addition, the lessons included means for the development of bocce-specific skills, which involved the use of balance but also other psychomotor abilities. The results obtained for the recorded parameters helped maintain gains in psychomotor abilities. We believe that the implementation of a specially designed program associated with specific movement skills contributes to maintaining or educating dynamic balance in people with Down syndrome. -
Evaluation of the social impact of small-scale dance festivals: the case of Samos
Panagiotis ASARIDIS; Dimitris GOULIMARIS30 March 202510.35189/dpeskj.2025.64.1.5Physical educationCultural events, such as festivals, foster intercultural dialogue, promote social cohesion, and increase knowledge about the culture of the region where they take place This study aimed to examine how educational level, place of residence, and income influence the perceived social impact of the Samos dance festival on the local community. The sample consisted of 211 Samos dance festival participants, and the research was carried out in the framework of the Triple Bottom Line (T.B.L) approach, first introduced by Elkington (1997) which analyses sustainability through three pillars, one of which is social. Data collection was carried out using the Dallas questionnaire (2018), focusing on questions related to social impact and demographic characteristics of festival attendees. The results showed that the social impact of the festival is highly valued across the entire sample. Permanent residents rated all aspects of social impact more positively than visitors. This assessment can be explained by the deeper connection of permanent residents with the local community. Regarding the level of education, contradictory results were observed, with both postgraduate or doctoral degree holders and secondary school graduates rating the social impact higher than other participants. Additionally, income level appeared to partially alter their perception of the festival’s social effects, especially among participants from lower economic backgrounds. In conclusion, the Samos dance festival has a significant positive social impact on the local community.
ISSN (online) 2286 – 3702
ISSN–L 1454 – 3907
Granted by the National Library of Romania
DISCOBOLUL - UNEFS
Copyright ©2025, All rights reserved
A project developed by Enformation
Evaluation of the social impact of small-scale dance festivals: the case of Samos
Proprioceptive training in women's artistic gymnastics
Reliability and educational quality of TikTok videos as information sources on sports nutrition
Enhancing breaststroke performance: a focus on arm movement analysis