Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud
PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud (Thinking in / about motion: Journal on Exercise and Health Sciences): is an international scientific journal from the School of Physical Education and the Human Movement Science Research Center of the University of Costa Rica, addressed to all professionals and specialized readers in this area. Its goal is to promote universal research on Human Movement and Health Sciences. Key words: Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Sports Psychology, Sports Nutrition, Motor Learning, Sports Medicine. OAI protocol from this journal: https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/rpem/oai
Acute effect of trampoline training on stability, jump height, and speed in 20-meter sprints in cheerleaders
A total of 53 subjects were recruited (18 men and 35 women) belonging to the Pura Vida Athletics Cheerleading program (Tibás, Costa Rica). Three groups were randomly formed: Trampoline Group (GT), Control Group (GC), and Normal Training Group (GEN). GT followed a traditional ET treatment (approximate duration 45 min; intensity 75-85% of maximum heart rate). Pre-test and post-test measurements of stability (pressure center), speed ​​in 20-m sprints, and jump height (CMJ) were conducted. Regarding stability, GT significantly worsened (p<0.05*) in a bipedal stance compared to GC and, in Liberty, Awesome, and Arabesque stunts GT worsened significantly (p<0.05*) compared to GC and GEN. Height of CMJ of GT was significantly lower (p<0.05*) with respect to GEN, but not with respect to GC. Speed ​​in 20-m sprints of GT decreased significantly (p<0.05*), while GC (p>0.05) and GEN (p>0.05) did not have a significant change. In conclusion, there was a significant decrease in stability of GT in a bipedal stance and in Liberty, Awesome and Arabesque stunts. Height of CMJ of GT had a non-significant decrease, while speed in 20-m sprints of GT was significantly lower after ET.
Copyright (c) 2020 Paul Ulloa Sánchez, Jessenia Hernández Elizondo
Variación de la velocidad y la frecuencia cardiaca durante un maratón en un ambiente caluroso
El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la variación de la velocidad de carrera y la frecuencia cardíaca en corredores aficionados durante un maratón en un entorno de alto índice térmico. Dieciocho corredores aficionados (peso: 65.2 ± 12.21 kg, altura: 168.4 ± 10.6 cm, VO2max: 52.9 ± 7.1 ml/kg/min) corrieron un maratón (42 195 m) en cercanía al mar bajo un índice térmico de 27.8 ± 3.52ºC y con recorrido de 0-80 m.s.n.m. La prueba de Pearson mostró una correlación significativa entre el aumento del índice de estrés termal (TGBH) y la variación de la velocidad (r = 0.168, p = 0.049). En este sentido, la duración total de la carrera presentó una relación directa con la velocidad (r = 0.675, p = 0.003) y la variación de la frecuencia cardíaca (r = 0.631, p = 0.007). El tiempo final de carrera se explicó en un 61.6% y 37% por la variación de la velocidad de 26 a 30 km (r 2= 0.61; F = 26.17; p < 0.001) y por la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca en el lapso de 31 a 35 km (r 2= 0.37; F= 10.38; p < 0.001) respectivamente. En conclusión, el índice térmico provoca una disminución en el ritmo de la velocidad, este efecto mayor en la segunda mitad de la carrera. Por lo anterior, entrenadores deben planificar entrenamientos y estrategias para mitigar el impacto de estas condiciones en el desempeño físico y fisiológico de los corredores amateur.
Descriptive, Correlational and Qualitative studies
Copyright (c) 2020 Daniel Rojas-Valverde, Braulio Sánchez-Ureña, Alexis Ugalde-Ramírez, Carlos D. Gómez-Carmona, José Pino-Ortega, Randall Gutiérrez-Vargas
This editorial uses the image of fatigue in physically active people and athletes to briefly analyze some current challenges to science in general, and human movement science in particular. It offers practical and realistic solutions that could help science regain its vitality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud
[Portuguese Translation] Limitations of Temporal (Forehead) Temperature Readings as a Screening Method for Covid-19
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many countries are in the process of reopening schools, churches, and businesses. In an effort to screen for potentially infected individuals, temporal artery (forehead) temperature is measured in thousands of people each day. This editorial discusses some of the major limitations of this procedure as a screening method for Covid-19 and warns against the danger of the false sense of security that this practice may cause
Copyright (c) 2020 Luis Fernando Aragón-Vargas
Influence of two types of warm-ups on the explosive force of the lower body in physical education students
The present study aimed to determine the possible influences of two types of warm-ups (traditional and specific) on the explosive strength of the lower body. Two tests were conducted (Counter Movement Jump-CMJ and 5-meter sprint) in three groups: a group without warm-up (GSC), a group with traditional warm-ups (GCT) including articulated mobility, continuous running, and static stretching; and another group with specific warm-ups (GCE), including articulated mobility, continuous running, dynamic stretching, and plyometric exercises. A pre and post-test was conducted, and ANOVA was used to compare the influence of the type of warm-ups on tests between groups. Subsequently, the effect size was calculated using Hedges' g. Results showed statistically significant differences between the pre and post-test in GCT and in GCE; furthermore, statistically significant differences (p < .05) were found in CMJ test between GSC and GCE, in the post-test. Performing dynamic stretching and plyometric exercises as part of the warm-ups seems to positively influence the ability to jump vertically. Data suggests that physical education coaches should use warm-ups with dynamic stretching and plyometric exercises to enhance performance in activities that include jumping.
Copyright (c) 2020 Alfonso Ruiz Garrigós, Álvaro de Vicente Durán, Alejandro Sánchez-Pay
Data base of Power and electromyographic activity in college volleyball players
Aedo-Muñoz, E., Tamayo Contreras, V., Rojas Reyes, C., Hernández Wimmer, C., Brito, C., Miarka, B., Arghoty Bucheli, R., Dal Bello, F & Herrera Valenzuela, T. (2020). Power and electromyographic activity in college volleyball players. Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 18(1), 1-14. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative power of lower limbs and the surface electromyographic activity (EMG) of the gluteus maximus (GM), vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), and lateral gastrocnemius (GASLAT) during a countermovement jump (CMJ) and an Abalakov jump (ABK). Twenty-four college volleyball players were divided into two equal groups assigned by division: Group 1 (G1), comprised of volleyball players from the 1st university division, and Group 2 (G2), comprised of volleyball players from the 2nd university division. Both groups took two simultaneous EMG and power assessments. For the power assessment, a 2D recording system was used to track the greater trochanter with a 250fps camera. The video was analyzed with the Tracker 4.96 software to obtain absolute power values. The EMG activity was measured using a Delsys Trigno® electromyograph in the GM, VM, VL, and GASLAT muscles. Significant differences were found in %PeakRMS of VL (G1=65.210.2; G2=54.0±11.7 %PeakRMS; p<0.05) for CMJ, as well as in VL (G1=69.6±17.3; G2=55.1±12.3 %PeakRMS; p<0.05) for ABK and GASLAT (G1=61.4±13.4; G2=50.6±7.2 %PeakRMS; p<0.05). Regarding relative power, no significant differences were present between CMJ (p> 0.05) and ABK (p>0.05).
Databases, novel methods and other complementary files
Copyright (c) 2020 Esteban Aedo-Muñoz, Valentin Tamayo Contreras, Cristian Rojas Reyes, Cristian Hernández Wimmer, Ciro Brito, Bianca Miarka, Rodrigo Arghoty Bucheli, Fabio Dal Bello, Tomás Herrera Valenzuela http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Data base of Efecto agudo de las bebidas energéticas en el rendimiento anaeróbico: un metaanálisis
Arias-Oviedo, G.M.; Castillo-Hernández, I. y Jiménez-Díaz, J. (2019). Acute effect of energy drinks on anaerobic performance: A meta-analysis. Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 17(2), 1-23. The consumption of energy drinks (ED) has been increasing in students, active individuals, and athletes due to their probable ergogenic effect. In addition to calories, energy drinks contain caffeine and other ingredients such as taurine, carnitine, and B-complex vitamins. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of ED consumption on anaerobic performance using a meta-analytic approach. A literature search was conducted on five electronic database searchers: PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Springer Link, ProQuest, and Science Direct. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected, i.e: experimental studies that assessed anaerobic performance using EDs as a treatment in humans, reporting descriptive statistics, and published in English or Spanish. 15 studies representing 37 effect sizes (ES) with a total of 253 participants (male and female: 21.7±3.7 years old) met the inclusion criteria. Using a random-effects model and a between-group design, an overall 0.123 ES was found (p = 0.009; CI95% = 0.01 to 0.23; Q = 19.5; p= 0.98; I2 = 0.00%). No relationship or difference was found in the moderator variables. In general, the overall ES indicated that there is a significant difference between consuming ED or a placebo for specific anaerobic jump tests.
Copyright (c) 2020 Gabriela María Arias Oviedo, Isaura Castillo Hernández, Judith Jiménez Díaz http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Data base of Percepción de la sed durante el ejercicio y en la rehidratación ad libitum post ejercicio en calor húmedo y seco
Capitán-Jiménez, C. & Aragón-Vargas, L.F. (2018). Thirst perception during exercise and post exercise ad libitum rehydration in dry and humid heat. Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 16(2), 1-18. This experimental study was designed to evaluate whether subjective perceptions of thirst and heat and voluntary water intake are different in two distinct environmental conditions but equivalent in terms of the thermal stress index, during exercise and post-exercise ad libitum rehydration. Methods: 14 participants exercised twice in a climate controlled room (WBGT≈28.5°C): once for dry heat (DRY, DBT=33.8°C, RH=53%) and once for humid heat (HUM, DBT=32.1°C and RH=67%), without fluid intake, until reaching dehydration equivalent to 4% BM. Perceptions of thirst, heat, fullness and colic were measured every 30 min during exercise. Subsequently, participants ingested water ad libitum for 90 minutes. Voluntary intake of water was also measured. Results: During exercise, thirst perception was the same for both conditions (DRY 64.44±23.38, HUM 67.32±20.41mm, p=0.409); however, it increased over time (p=0.0001). The same situation happened with heat perception: there was no difference between conditions (DRY 6.34±0.50, HUM 6.40±0.37ua, p=0.423), but it also increased over time (p=0.001). At the end of rehydration, heat perception was greater for dry heat (5.3 ± 0.2ua) than for moist heat (4.7 ± 0.2ua, p=0.006). At the end of the exercise, thirst (85.8 ± 19.4mm) showed no significant correlation with actual dehydration (3.82 ± 0.18% BM, r=-0.14, p=0.48) or with voluntary water intake (1843 ± 587 ml, r=-0.04, p=0.85). There was no correlation between the actual sweat loss (2766 ± 700 ml) and the voluntary water intake (r=0.16, p=0.42). Ratio between net fluid balance and thirst perception was R2a=0.70 (p=0.001). Conclusions: thirst and heat perceptions were the same when exercising in two different environmental conditions with the same level of heat stress. The thirst perception scale was able to detect progressive dehydration in a consistent manner: the greater the dehydration over time, the greater the thirst. However, the results of this study do not support the theory that voluntary water intake is adequate to replenish sweat loss after exercise.
Copyright (c) 2020 Catalina Capitán-Jiménez, Luis Fernando Aragón-Vargas http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Data base of Refining music tempo for an ergogenic effect on stationary cycling exercise
Aburto-Corona, J. & Aragón-Vargas, L.F. (2017). Refining music tempo for an ergogenic effect on stationary cycling exercise. Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 15(2), 1-12. The effect of music on exercise performance has been studied from many perspectives, but the results have not been as clear as expected, probably due to a lack of appropriate controls. The purpose of this study was to measure stationary cycling performance in a warm environment under carefully controlled conditions, modifying only the presence of music and its tempo. Ten physically active students, 24.5±3.6 years (mean±SD) selected their favorite exercise music and performed a maximum cycling test. During subsequent visits to the laboratory, they pedaled at their preferred speed against a constant resistance (70% of maximum) in an environmentally controlled chamber (28.6±0.5 °C db and 65±3% rh) for 30 min, on three different days, without music (NM), medium tempo music (MT-120 bpm) or fast tempo music (FT-140 bpm), in random order. Perceived exertion (PE), heart rate (HR) and total work performed (W) were recorded. There was no significant difference among conditions for PE (4.47±1.52; 4.22±1.5; 3.83±2.06 a.u. for NM, MT and FT, respectively, p=.162) or HR (142.4±24.53; 142.6±24.37; 142.9±18.36 bpm for NM, MT and FT, respectively, p=.994), but W was different (43.4±19.02; 46.1±20.34; 47.1±20.97, kJ for NM, MT and FT, respectively, p=.009); post-hoc analysis showed that the W difference was only between FT and NM. Using individually selected preferred music in a carefully controlled environment, participants improved their spontaneous cycling performance only when the music had a fast tempo of 140 bpm.
Copyright (c) 2020 Jorge Alberto Aburto Corona, Luis Fernando Aragón-Vargas http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Data base of Thirst response to post-exercise fluid replacement needs and controlled drinking
Capitán-Jiménez, C. & Aragón-Vargas, L.F. (2016). Thirst Response to Post-Exercise Fluid Replacement Needs and Controlled Drinking. Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 14(2), 1-16. Perceived thirst (TP) was evaluated as a dependent variable: can it distinguish among several levels of acute dehydration, is it reliable, and how does it respond to the ingestion of a fixed water volume post exercise? In a repeated-measures design, eight physically active students (24.5±3.6 years, mean±SD), reported to the laboratory on four non-consecutive days. They remained at rest or exercised at 32±3°C db and 65±6% rh to a randomly assigned dehydration equivalent to 1, 2, and 3% of body mass (BM). Following exercise, participants ingested a fixed water volume of 1.20% BM in 30 minutes; urine output, TP and plasma volume changes were assessed every 30 minutes over 3 hours. Post-exercise TP was not different before and after showering (p = 0.860), but it was significantly different among conditions (TP = 2.50 ± 0.45, 4.44 ± 0.72, 6.38 ± 0.82, and 8.63 ± 0.18 for 0, 1, 2, and 3% BM, p = 0.001). TP was associated with net fluid balance (rpart = -0.62, p < 0.0001) but, soon after drinking, TP was the same regardless of dehydration (p > 0.05). Thirst perception is valid and reliable in the absence of drinking but it responds inappropriately to water intake.
Data base of Contextual interference in motor skills performance: a meta-analysis review
This study expands a meta-analysis research done recently examining the Contextual Interference (CI) Effect using a meta-analytic technique. After a literature review in eleven digital databases and references, 25 research accomplished with the established inclusion criteria for the intra-group analysis while 21 corresponded for the inter-groups. Based on random practice models (RP), it was found 150 individual Effect Size (ES) for the intra- group design. It was also found that the blocked practice (BP) improved its acquisition skills (ES= 0.69; n= 39; IC95%= 0.40 a 0.97) and decreased in retention (ES= 0.12; n= 37; IC95%= -0.12 a 0.38). For the inter-group design, we had a total of 68 individual ES finding that in acquisition the BP revealed a better performance than RP (ES = -0.15; n= 31; IC95%= -0.32 a -0.01) and in retention both groups had similar performance (ES = -0.02; n= 37; IC95%= -0.20 a 0.26). Results support (CI) effect in acquisition. The presence of moderate variables (participants ‘age, number of attempts, type of skill and research´s external validity) confirm that this effect can be generalized.
Copyright (c) 2020 Judith Jiménez Díaz, Walter Salazar-Rojas, María Morera-Castro http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gimnasia de competición en la trayectoria escolar de estudiantes ingresantes a la licenciatura en educación física en Paraná - Brasil
El objetivo fue analizar las experiencias vivenciadas por los estudiantes que ingresaron a cursos de Licenciatura en Educación Física en el Estado de Paraná (Brasil) con la gimnasia de competición durante la Educación Primaria y Secundaria. La investigación se caracterizó como descriptiva con abordaje cualitativo y cuantitativo. Participaron 168 estudiantes que ingresaron en el año 2017 en cursos de Licenciatura en Educación Física de cuatro universidades públicas de Paraná. Fue utilizado un cuestionario con información sociodemográfica, preguntas abiertas y cerradas sobre la experiencia del contenido de gimnasia de competición en el contexto escolar. Para analizar las preguntas abiertas fue utilizado el análisis de contenido. En el análisis de información sociodemográfica y preguntas cerradas se usó estadística descriptiva. Se evidenció escasa experiencia por parte de los estudiantes con las modalidades de gimnasia de competición y falta de oportunidad de estos alumnos de vivenciar y reflexionar sobre la gimnasia en la Educación Física escolar.
Copyright (c) 2020 Bruna Sontag, Verónica Gabriela Silva Piovani, Ademir Faria Pires, Eliane Josefa Barbosa Dos Reis, Ieda Parra Barbosa Rinaldi
En esta sección se publican los resúmenes en español de artículos que han sido publicados por investigadoras/es de universidades costarricenses en otras revistas en el mundo, con su debida referencia al trabajo original, y con una breve explicación de dónde se realizó la investigación. Los artículos originales han sido publicados en otros idiomas; las revistas tienen consejo editorial y manejan un proceso de revisión por pares. Los resúmenes corresponden a estudios relacionados con las ciencias del ejercicio y la salud, que se conforman a los criterios generales de la revista, esto es, se trata de “... estudios experimentales o que hagan recomendaciones concretas para solucionar problemas o preguntas relevantes (...) trabajos originales o de meta-análisis.” Solicitamos a quienes hayan publicado este tipo de trabajos en otros idiomas que no los hagan saber, para incluir sus resúmenes en futuras entregas de esta sección.
Copyright (c) 2020 Luis Fernando Aragón-Vargas http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of active warm-ups and different recovery intervals on swimming performance
The purpose of the paper was to determine the effect of active warm-ups with different recovery intervals in sport performance in 50m and 200m freestyle swimming. Seventeen athletes (13.5 ± 2.18 years old) registered with the Costa Rican Federation of Water Sports, with training and competition experience of 4.47 ± 1.28 years participated in this study. Before the 50m and 200m freestyle swimming tests, four experimental conditions were conducted: Control (without warm-up), Warm-up (960m) + 20 min rest, Warm-up (960m) + 10 min rest, Warm-up (960m) without rest. The order of the tests (50m and 200m freestyle) and the experimental conditions were randomly assigned. The statistical analysis used a one-way ANOVA of repeated measures, p < .05. No significant difference was found in performance in 50m or 200m freestyle swimming tests (F = 0.83, p = .48) (F = 0.88, p = .46), respectively, when using active warm-ups or not. Neither was there an effect of the different recovery times on performance in both swimming tests. Different patterns of individual responses were observed in the experimental conditions. It is concluded that, as a group, an active warm-up before 50m and 200m freestyle swimming tests does not improve the performance of young inexperienced swimmers. However, the coach is recommended to pay attention to individualized responses to select the best protocol (having warm-up or not) to improve athletes’ performance
Copyright (c) 2020 Armando Quirós Vásquez, Elizabeth Carpio-Rivera, Walter Salazar-Rojas
Effect of mental and physical practice in the motor performance and muscle electrical activity in healthy students
The purpose of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of mental practice (MP), physical practice (PP), and their combination (CP) in the performance of the dribbling skill in field hockey, and the brachioradialis muscle electrical activity (MEA) of the dominant forearm. A total of 27 freshmen enrolled in the Human Movement Science program with no experience in the skill was randomly assigned to one of the three groups (MP, PP, and CP). Skill performance was assessed by total time using Smartspeed Pro photocells, while MEA was tested with an electromyogram using Noraxon M400. Research was conducted in two sessions. In the first session, the pretest, experimental practice by group, post test, and MEA were conducted. In the second session, held a week later, a retention test was conducted. After a two-way mixed ANOVA [group (3) x measurement (3)], the acquisition and retention test performance improved significantly in the three groups. The two-way mixed ANOVA [group (3) x measurement (2)] showed no significant differences in MEA. PP, MP, and CP enhanced skill learning; however, no significant changes were found in the brachioradialis muscle electrical activity of the dominant forearm.
Copyright (c) 2020 Alfredo Urcuyo Ovares, Jefferson Ávila Chaverri, Judith Jimenez Diaz, Bryan Montero Herrera
A walking intervention for sedentary employees: effects on self-regulation and self-efficacy
A 10-week walking intervention was designed to examine how physical activity affects self-regulation and self-efficacy in sedentary employees. The intervention was completed by 68 participants randomly assigned to three groups: intermittent walking, continuous walking, or control. Self-regulation, self-efficacy and walking behavior were measured at baseline, week-6, and week-11. Walking activity significantly (p<.05) increased for the continuous walking group from baseline to week-6 (p=.033), the percentage of change was significantly higher compared to the control group from baseline to week-11 (p=0.042). Significant improvements on self-regulation were observed with the continuous group from baseline to week-6 and week-11 (p<0.05). However, self-efficacy decreased from baseline to week-6 (p=.047) and week-11 (p=.008) for all groups. Sedentary employees may benefit more from a continuous walking program due to enhanced self-regulatory skills. Intermittent walking activity may be also a feasible approach to reduce sedentary behavior, however more research is needed to test whether or not sedentary employees can meet daily physical activity recommendations. It is also important to review in future research, the link between physical activity and self-efficacy.
Copyright (c) 2020 Mynor G. Rodriguez-Hernandez, Danielle Wadsworth
Meta-analysis: effects of mental preparation techniques based on imagery - hypnosis on flow states and athletic performance
The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of psychological mental preparation techniques based on imagery or hypnosis on the state of flow, sports performance, and their relationship using the meta-analytic technique. A literature review was conducted in ten databases from August to October 2017, which resulted in 17 studies related to sports activities with pretest-posttest measurements. The Effect Size (ES) of mean difference was analyzed using a random model. A total of 53 ESs and 62 ESs were obtained for flow states and performance, respectively. A positive ES was found for the flow state (ES = .782, n = 52, p <.001) and for performance (ES = .339; n = 60; p <.05), and a positive relationship was verified between the two variables (ρ = .312, p <.05). The most relevant variables that moderate the effect size of the flow state and performance are age, years of sports experience, and sex. It is concluded that imagery is the most effective psychological technique to increase the state of flow and performance. Further research with a pure experimental design considering the multi-dimensional measurement of the state of flow is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2020 Julián Camilo Garzón Mosquera, Gerardo Alonso Araya Vargas
Assessment of school physical education learning
This study analyzed the characteristics and outlines of the assessment process of school physical education learning. To this end, forty-six physical education coaches in the Paraná public school system completed a semi-structured questionnaire with open questions about the student assessment process. Data revealed that coaches assessed the cognitive, physical-kinesthetic, and socio-affective skills of students, using the following criteria: retention of information, understanding and application of concepts, individual evolution, physical/technical performance, cooperation, participation and behavior, through theoretical tests, assignments, and observations.
Copyright (c) 2020 Evandra Hein Mendes, Ieda Parra Barbosa Rinaldi
Power and electromyographic activity in college volleyball players
The purpose of this study was to determine the relative power of lower limbs and the surface electromyographic activity (EMG) of the gluteus maximus (GM), vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), and lateral gastrocnemius (GASLAT) during a countermovement jump (CMJ) and an Abalakov jump (ABK). Twenty-four college volleyball players were divided into two equal groups assigned by division: Group 1 (G1), comprised of volleyball players from the 1st university division, and Group 2 (G2), comprised of volleyball players from the 2nd university division. Both groups took two simultaneous EMG and power assessments. For the power assessment, a 2D recording system was used to track the greater trochanter with a 250fps camera. The video was analyzed with the Tracker 4.96 software to obtain absolute power values. The EMG activity was measured using a Delsys Trigno® electromyograph in the GM, VM, VL, and GASLAT muscles. Significant differences were found in %PeakRMS of VL (G1=65.210.2; G2=54.0±11.7 %PeakRMS; p<0.05) for CMJ, as well as in VL (G1=69.6±17.3; G2=55.1±12.3 %PeakRMS; p<0.05) for ABK and GASLAT (G1=61.4±13.4; G2=50.6±7.2 %PeakRMS; p<0.05). Regarding relative power, no significant differences were present between CMJ (p> 0.05) and ABK (p>0.05).
Copyright (c) 2020 Esteban Aedo-Muñoz, Valentin Tamayo Contreras, Cristian Rojas Reyes, Cristian Hernández Wimmer, Ciro Brito, Bianca Miarka, Rodrigo Arghoty Bucheli, Fabio Dal Bello, Tomás Herrera Valenzuela
Speed and heart rate variation during marathon running in a hot environment
The purpose of the study was to analyze the variation of running speed and heart rate in amateur runners during a marathon in a hot environment. Eighteen runners (weight: 65.2 ± 12.21 kg, height: 168.4 ± 10.6 cm, VO2max: 52.9 ± 7.1 ml/kg/min) took part of a beach-side marathon (42195 m) under a temperature of 27.8 ± 3.52 ºC and at 0-80 m altitude. Pearson’s correlation showed a significant linear relationship between the increase in thermal stress index (WGBT) and the speed variation (r= 0.168, p= 0.049). In this respect, the total duration of the race revealed a direct relationship with speed (r= 0.675, p= 0.003) and heart rate (r= 0.631, p= 0.007) variation. Multiple regressions analysis showed that 61.6% of the final race time was explained by the speed variation in the 26 to 30 km course section (r2= 0.61; F= 26.17; p< 0.001) and 37% by the heart rate variation in the 31 to 35 km section (r2= 0.37; F= 10.38; p< 0.001). In conclusion, an increase in the environmental temperature provoked a decrease in running pacing, with a stronger effect in the second half of the race. Therefore, coaches should take these aspects into account in training and strategies to mitigate the impact of these conditions on the physical and physiological performance of amateur runners.
Copyright (c) 2020 Daniel Rojas-Valverde, Braulio Sánchez-Ureña, Alexis Ugalde-Ramírez, Carlos D Gómez-Carmona, José Pino-Ortega, Randall Gutiérrez-Vargas
Competitive gymnastics in the school trajectory of freshman students in physical education programs in Paraná – Brazil
The aim of this paper was to analyze the experiences of freshman students of the Physical Education Program in the State of Paraná (Brazil) regarding competitive gymnastics during their Primary and Secondary Education. The research was descriptive with a qualitative and quantitative approach. Participants included 168 students who entered the Physical Education Program in four public universities in Paraná in 2017. The questionnaire used included socio-demographic information, with open and closed questions about the participants’ previous experience in competitive gymnastics in school. Open questions were analyzed by content analysis, while socio-demographic information and close questions were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Results evidenced that students had little experience in competitive gymnastics and lacked opportunities to experience and reflect on gymnastics in school Physical Education.
Copyright (c) 2019 Bruna Sontag, Verónica Gabriela Silva Piovani, Ademir Faria Pires, Eliane Josefa Barbosa dos Reis, Ieda Parra Barbosa Rinaldi
Content design and validation of an instrument for the technical and tactical control of olympic wrestling
The purpose of this paper was to design and validate the contents of a tool that monitors the technical and tactical component in Olympic wrestling athletes, using related research projects and validation of expert judgment. The methodology applied consisted of accepting or rejecting contents, taking into account cut-off values (0.75) determined by the number of evaluators (8 subjects experts in the sport) and the rating scale recorded in the surveys (between 1 and 5) to assess the items (11 of the tool and 65 of contents), based on the validation of contents of an instrument, using Aiken’s V statistic. As a result, four out of 12 items of the instrument and seven elements of the contents (four of which were directly related to those rejected in the instrument) were eliminated. In conclusion, the design of a tool to observe, control, and determine the technical and tactical behavior of Olympic wrestlers is of great importance for all experts, but some contents must be removed or modified either because they are hard to understand or, according to experts, are not practical. The usefulness of a tool such as the one "approved" is inferred to support the preparation process of athletes.
Copyright (c) 2020 Carlos Alberto Agudelo Velásquez, Wilfred Stiven Toro Castañeda
Formación permanente y autopercepción de competencia: un estudio con entrenadores de tenis
Este estudio tuvo como objetivo asociar la formación permanente de entrenadores con la autopercepción y la importancia atribuida al constructo - competencia profesional. La muestra fueron 69 entrenadores de tenis, que participaron de actividades de capacitación promovidas por la Federación Paranaense de Tenis, estando constituida mayormente por profesionales: con más de ocho años de experiencia profesional; con experiencia como practicante; y graduados en Educación Física. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó una ficha con variables socio demográficas y la Escala de Auto Percepción de Competencia. Los resultados indicaron que la participación en actividades/cursos no tuvo asociación significativa con la autopercepción de competencia de los entrenadores para los Conocimientos Profesionales. Para la dimensión de Habilidades Profesionales, involucrarse en actividades de capacitación se relacionó significativamente con la autopercepción de dominio, con énfasis en las habilidades relacionadas con el Planeamiento y Gestión Deportiva, y Evaluación Deportiva, habilidades consideradas centrales en el ejercicio profesional de los entrenadores. La importancia atribuida a los Conocimientos y Habilidades Profesionales fue elevada, siendo siempre superior a la autopercepción de dominio.
Copyright (c) 2020 Caio Corrêa Cortela, Michel Milistetd, Jorge Both, Larissa Rafaela Galatti, Miguel Crespo, Carlos Adelar Abaide Balbinotti
Evaluación del aprendizaje en la educación física escolar
Este estudio analizó las características y los delineamientos del proceso de evaluación del aprendizaje en la educación física escolar. Para ello, se aplicó un cuestionario semiestructurado con preguntas abiertas sobre el proceso de evaluación de los estudiantes a cuarenta y seis profesores de educación física de la red pública de enseñanza de Paraná. Los datos revelaron que los profesores evalúan las competencias cognoscitivas, físico-cinestésicas y la socioafectiva de los alumnos, utilizando como criterios de análisis la retención de informaciones, la comprensión y aplicación de los conceptos, la evolución individual, el desempeño físico/técnico, la cooperación, la participación y el comportamiento de los alumnos, por medio de pruebas teóricas, trabajos y observaciones.
[English original] Limitations of Temporal (Forehead) Temperature Readings as a Screening Method for Covid-19
Copyright (c) 2020 Luis Fernando Aragon-Vargas
[Spanish Translation] Limitations of Temporal (Forehead) Temperature Readings as a Screening Method for Covid-19
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many countries are in the process of reopening schools, churches, and businesses. In an effort to screen for potentially infected individuals, temporal artery (forehead) temperature is measured in thousands of people each day. This editorial discusses some of the major limitations of this procedure as a screening method for Covid-19 and warns against the danger of the false sense of security that this practice may cause.
[Spanish translation] The evolution of Nordic walking research: a bibliometric analysis
INTRODUCTION: Nordic Walking has expanded from a sport-specific method to a widely used physical activity and therapeutic strategy, generating a rapidly growing body of literature. PURPOSE: This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of Nordic Walking research from 1996 to 2024. METHODOLOGY: A bibliometric analysis was performed using Scopus. Peer-reviewed journal articles and reviews published between 1996 and 2024 were analyzed. Performance indicators and science-mapping analyses were conducted using Biblioshiny. A total of 331 documents were analysed. RESULTS: The field showed consistent growth, with an annual growth rate of 12.18%, and 39.27% of publications occurring in the last five years (2020–2024). Poland was the leading country in research output (20.8% of publications), followed by Italy (11.6%) and Spain (6.4%). Co-occurrence network analysis revealed three main research clusters centered on physiology, human walking, and exercise therapy. Topic trend analysis identified “Nordic walking,” “physical activity,” “exercise,” and “walking” as dominant themes. International collaboration networks showed strong links among European countries, particularly Italy and Poland. CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into the evolution and current state of Nordic Walking research, highlighting its growing relevance in health and exercise science and supporting future agenda setting and targeted international collaboration.
[Spanish translation] A bibliometric analysis of the effects of aerobic exercise on overweight (1978-2025)
INTRODUCTION: Overweight is a global public health concern associated with multiple chronic conditions. Aerobic exercise, widely recognized for improving weight control, cardiorespiratory fitness, and metabolic function, has become central to intervention strategies. However, the global research landscape addressing aerobic exercise specifically for overweight populations remains insufficiently mapped. PURPOSE: This study aimed to analyze scientific development, main research topics, and collaboration patterns using bibliometric methods based on publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (SCIE and SSCI) from 1978 to 2025 (search date: March 23, 2025). METHODOLOGY: A total of 3,983 documents were retrieved and analyzed using the Bibliometrix package (R), with results visualized through publication trends, co-authorship and co-citation networks, and keyword clustering. RESULTS: The field has expanded rapidly since 2000, showing an average annual growth rate of 7.35%. The United States ranks first in publication volume and citation impact, followed by the United Kingdom and Canada. China demonstrates substantial research output but lower citation performance, highlighting the need for stronger international collaboration. High-impact publishing venues are primarily from exercise science and obesity-related research areas. Keyword and network analyses reveal a shift from general intervention studies toward more specific mechanisms, populations, and multidimensional outcomes, including insulin resistance, body composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness. A strong international collaboration structure, especially within North America and Europe, is also evident. CONCLUSION: Overall, research on aerobic exercise for overweight individuals has evolved into a multidisciplinary and globally collaborative field. Future efforts should emphasize research quality, deeper collaboration, and tailored intervention strategies to support global health.
[Spanish translation] Health-and skill-related physical fitness in Costa Rican special operations police units
OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were: a) to provide a detailed health- and skill-related physical fitness profile of a cohort of Costa Rican Special Operations Police (SOP) units and b) to compare selected physical measures by age groups: body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, body fat percentage, lean mass, resting heart rate, blood pressure, grip strength, flexibility, vertical jump height, muscular resistance, agility, anaerobic resistance and cardiorespiratory capacity were measured in SOP active members. METHODOLOGY: Seventy-nine officers (age = 37.68 ± 7.86 years, height = 172.58 ± 5.35 cm, body weight = 80.49 ± 10.69 kg, BMI = 27.05 ± 3.34 kg∙m-2) participated in the study. Health- and skill-related physical fitness results of the participants were sub-optimal. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed between age subgroups in lean mass in kg (F = 6.581, p = 0.002), A/G ratio (F = 10.078, p = 0.000), right- and left-hand grip (F = 5.680, p = 0.005; F = 8.386, p = 0.001), vertical jump (SQJ , F = 8.047, p = 0.001; CMJ , F = 8.167, p = 0.001), muscular resistance (F = 4.063, p = 0.021), agility (F = 9.055, p = 0.000), anaerobic resistance (F = 7.572, p = 0.001), and cardiorespiratory capacity (F = 5.034, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Police officers should review their strength and conditioning programs because their fitness profile is currently below general fitness standards. Age was shown to be an important factor in SOP units’ strength and conditioning performance.
[English original] Where the game begins: home court advantage and performance contexts in female youth basketball leagues
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to research on the extent of home court advantage (HA) and the percentage of home wins (HW), and to compare both metrics between different age categories (U14, U16 and U18) and the levels of ability in female youth basketball teams. METHODOLOGY: Data were gathered from the Madrid Basketball Federation over five seasons (2018–2019 through 2023–2024), analyzing a total 545 teams over three age categories: 178 U14 teams, 183 U16 teams and 184 U18 teams. Games without audience and the 2020–2021 season were not taken into account. Through a two-step cluster analysis, teams were classified according to ability into five groups: Foundational, Development, Competitive, High Performance, and Élite. RESULTS: The team’s ability had significant impact both on HA and HW (p < 0.001). Foundational teams showed significantly lower values of HA (50.0%) and HW (10.0%) when compared to groups of greater ability, whereas Élite teams reached the highest HW values (88.8%). Across categories, significant differences were observed in HA, with values increasing from U14 (50.0%) to U16 (53.9%) and U18 (54.2%), which indicates a small increase consistent with age, whereas no significant differences were found in HW. CONCLUSION: The team’s ability, rather than the age category, was identified as the major factor impacting HA and HW. Foundational teams showed the lowest HA and HW values; Development teams reached the highest HA, and Élite teams achieved the highest HW. These findings indicate that the team’s ability plays a decisive role in the two performance results under study, whereas age category has only a limited influence.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pensar en Movimiento: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud