SPORTS SCIENCE AND HEALTH

Affective Conditions of Young Athletes Before and After Organized Training Camp

2026-01-03T11:02:10+01:00

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a seven-day athletic training camp on the emotional state of young athletes. Changes in affective states were assessed using the PANAS instrument at the beginning and end of the training period. The sample included 84 athletes (25 boys and 59 girls), aged 8 to 18 years (M=11.89; SD=2.36), divided into three age groups: younger school age (10 years and younger), older school age (11–15 years), and high school age (16 years and older). All participants were members of the “Partizan” Athletic Club and with at least one year of training experience. Although descriptive indicators suggested slight changes in affective states, the combined analysis of variance (Mixed between-within subjects ANOVA) did not confirm the presence of statistically significant differences either between pre-test and post-test measures or across the age groups. The results, although statistically nonsignificant, indicate emotional stability among the athletes during the camp, likely due to their previous experience with similar programs, good organization, and social support. The findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of athletes’ emotional states, particularly among younger age groups. For future studies, it is suggested to implement an extended experimental duration, a larger participant group, and to factor in additional psychological variables.

A Grounded Theory of the Psychological Foundations of Soccer Performance

2026-01-03T11:14:47+01:00

This study employed a Grounded Theory approach to synthesize the existing literature on the psychological factors that influence soccer players’ performance and career development. A total of 22 review articles were considered suitable for the creation of this theory. Atlas.ti.24 software was used for qualitative analysis. A total of 146 codes were encoded and grouped into six key categories: Psychological Traits and States, Cognitive and Perceptual Skills, Emotional and Stress Management, Social and Environmental Influences, Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle, and Performance and Skill Development. The resulting Grounded Theory explains the complex interplay between these psychological dimensions and their impact on soccer performance. This study emphasizes the importance of holistic athlete development by integrating psychological skills training with physical and technical preparation. This comprehensive framework offers valuable insights for coaches, sports psychologists, and researchers by suggesting targeted interventions to optimize player performance and support long-term career success. This theory underscores the need for individualized approaches to psychological training and the integration of mental health considerations in soccer development programs. While limited by its focus on review articles and the exclusion of primary studies, this research provides a foundation for future empirical investigations and practical applications in soccer psychology. The study concluded that psychological factors are integral to soccer performance, are equal in importance to physical and tactical elements, and should be systematically incorporated into training and development strategies.
Keywords: football, psychological factors, sp

Body Composition and Agility as Determinants of Kabaddi Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study

2026-01-03T11:31:23+01:00

Kabaddi is a team sport that requires physical strength, agility, endurance, and offensive and defensive skills. Body composition, such as muscle mass, fat-free mass, and fat mass, is believed to influence performance. This study analyzes the relationship between body composition, agility, and the performance of kabaddi athletes, as well as the contribution of each variable to the performance of kabaddi athletes. This correlational study with a cross-sectional approach involved 32 active kabaddi athletes from East Java. Data collection was carried out by measuring waist circumference with a measuring tape, while muscle mass, fat-free mass (FFM), and fat mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) with the InBody 270; agility was assessed with the T-agility test, and kabaddi performance was evaluated by experts based on raiding, catching, and teamwork skills. The results showed that muscle mass had the strongest correlation with kabaddi performance (r=0.957, p=0.001), followed by fat-free mass (r=0.937, p=0.001) and waist circumference (r=0.749, p=0.001), while fat mass showed a lower significant correlation (r=0.512, p=0.010). Agility showed a significant negative correlation (r=-0.775, p=0.001), where faster agility test times were associated with better performance. The regression model explained 95.3% of the variability in kabaddi performance. In conclusion, muscle mass, fat-free mass, and agility are the main predictors of kabaddi athlete performance, while fat mass and waist circumference had minimal impact.

Comparative Impact of Command and Exploratory Training Methods on Sunback Spike Skills in Sepaktakraw: A Case Study of PPLP West Sumatera Athletes

2026-01-03T11:48:16+01:00

This study investigates the comparative impact of command and exploratory training methods on the effectiveness of sunback spike skills in sepaktakraw athletes at the PPLP West Sumatra. Using an experimental design, 30 male athletes were selected and homogeneously grouped based on a pre-test of their sunback spike skills. The athletes were divided into two groups using matched subject ordinal pairing, where Group 1 (K1) received command-based training, and Group 2 (K2) received exploratory-based training. Both methods were found to improve the athletes’ sunback spike performance significantly. Statistical analysis revealed that the command training method had a more substantial effect, with a t-value of 7.56, compared to the exploratory method’s t-value of 5.03, both exceeding the critical value (1.76). Additionally, command training demonstrated superior efficacy in enhancing sunback spike ability, as indicated by a t-value of 8.92, which surpassed the threshold value (1.734). The findings recommend that coaches integrate both methods into training programs, emphasizing the command approach for optimal skill development. Future research should address limitations such as sample size to validate these findings further and expand their applicability.

Improved Free Kick Accuracy: Through Imagery Training And Concentration Of Soccer Players

2026-01-03T12:15:52+01:00

This study aims to 1) analyze the difference in the effect between internal imagery training and external imagery on the accuracy of free kicks of soccer players in terms of concentration, 2) analyze the difference in the effect between athletes who have high and low concentration on improving free kick accuracy, 3) analyze the interaction between internal imagery training and external imagery on free kick accuracy in terms of concentration. This type of research is an experiment with a 2 x 2 factorial design. The instrument used to measure concentration is the Grid Concentration Test, while free kick accuracy uses the free kick accuracy test. The data analysis technique used was two-way Anova. The results showed that: 1) There is a difference between internal imagery and external imagery training (p = 0.045 <0.05), then the internal imagery training method is better than external imagery on the accuracy of free kicks of soccer players. 2) There is a difference between players with high concentration and low concentration (p = 0.018 < 0.05), and players with high concentration are better than players with low concentration on the accuracy of free kicks of soccer players. 3) There is an interaction between internal and external imaging with high and low concentration (p = 0.000 < 0.05). The group of players who have high concentration is more appropriate if trained with internal imagery. In contrast, the players in the low concentration group were better if trained with external imagery.

Increasing 100-Meter Freestyle Swimming Speed: Through Imagery Training And Pre-Performance Routines Viewed From Concentration

2026-01-03T13:47:35+01:00

This study aims to determine: (1) the difference in the effect of imagery training and pre-performance routines on increasing 100-meter freestyle swimming speed. (2) The difference in the effect between high and low concentrations on increasing the 100-meter freestyle swimming speed. (3) The interaction between imagery training and pre-performance routines in terms of concentration on increasing 100-meter freestyle swimming speed. This research method is quantitative with an experimental method using a factorial design 2 x 2. The results showed that: (1) There is a difference in the effect of imagery training and pre-performance routines on increasing 100-meter freestyle swimming speed with a sig value of 0.002 <0.05, athletes who are given mental imagery training are better than pre-performance routines with an average difference in post test of 1.77 seconds (2) There is a difference in the effect between high and low concentration on increasing the ability of 100-meter freestyle swimming speed, proven by the F value of 5.447 and a significance value of p 0.006 <0.05, Swimming athletes who have high concentration are better than those who have low concentration, with an average posttest difference of 0.59. (3) There is an interaction between imagery training and pre-performance routines in terms of concentration aspects (high and low) on increasing 100-meter freestyle swimming speed, with an F value of 39.87 and a significance value of p 0.000 <0.05. The conclusion is that the imagery training model is a more effective method for athletes who have high concentration, and the pre-performance routines training model is more effective for athletes who have low concentration.

Leadership and strategic management in sports: Comparing different leadership approaches and their impact on sports management outcomes

2026-01-03T13:54:27+01:00

The research was aimed at studying the relationship between management approaches and the efficiency of sports organizations. To achieve this goal, a theoretical analysis of leadership styles and aspects of strategic management was conducted, as well as a survey of sports managers. The study of various leadership models, including transformational, situational, servant leadership, democratic and authoritarian, showed that transformational and situational leadership are the best approaches to improving team performance and motivating participants. The study of strategic management has confirmed its significance as an important multicomponent tool for ensuring stability and achieving long-term goals, especially when integrated with appropriate leadership approaches. According to the survey of sports managers, transformational leadership received the highest scores in combination with strategy implementation and risk management, while the authoritarian style received the lowest scores in combination with environmental analysis, adaptive planning, human resource management, and others. The findings indicate that leadership styles that promote flexibility, creativity and effective communication create favourable conditions for the sustainable development of teams, support their adaptability and increase the level of involvement of participants, which ultimately has a positive impact on the overall management efficiency of sports organizations.

Relationship Between Physical Activity and Academic Success of Students

2026-01-03T14:16:48+01:00

This study aimed to examine the relationship between physical activity and the academic success of students. The total sample consisted of 116 undergraduate female students of the Faculty of Sport and Psychology, divided into three groups based on the physical activity level determined by use of the Godin Questionnaire for Physical Activity in Leisure Time. The academic success was calculated as the average grade values during studies. A one-way ANOVA revealed that there was a statistically significant difference in mean grade values between groups F = 12.089, p = 0.000. Post Hoc LSD test for multiple comparisons found that the mean grade values of the first group were significantly different from the second group. Insufficiently Active students had significantly lower grades compared to Moderately Active students (p = 0.041, 95% C.I. = -1.079, -0.02). There were statistically significant differences in mean grade values between Insufficiently Active and Active students. Active students had higher grade values (p = 0.000, 95% C.I. = -1.609, -0.665) compared to Insufficiently Active, and the mean grade value of Moderately Active students was significantly lower compared to Active ones (p = 0.010, C.I.= -1.046, -0.147). The obtained results indicating that a greater number of sessions of physical activity generates better academic success, and testifies to the assumption that physical activity integrated into the weekly life regime of a typical respondent/academic may have the character of contributing to positive neuroplastic changes and better academic success as a possible marker of the neurophysiological potential of the student population.

The Effect of 6 Weeks of Complex Training on the Speed and Agility of Fighting Class Indonesian Pencak Silat Athletes

2026-01-03T15:05:28+01:00

Martial art Pencak silat is a traditional martial art form that has evolved into a competitive sport. Speed and agility are critical for successful performance in Pencak silat, as they enable athletes to execute quick strikes, evasive manoeuvres, and defensive techniques effectively. Despite the importance of speed and agility in Pencak silat, there is a lack of consensus on the most effective training methods to enhance these attributes specifically for this martial art. This study investigates the effects of six weeks of complex training on the speed and agility of fighting class Pencak silat athletes. A one-group pretest and posttest design was used to evaluate the effect of complex training on the speed and agility of Pencak silat athletes. The study lasted six weeks, with pre-and posttest assessments to measure agility and speed changes. This research involved 20 male Pencak silat athletes aged between 16 and 19. The primary outcomes measured are agility and speed. The Illinois Agility Test assesses agility. The 40-meter sprint test measures speed. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software. The p-value for the speed test is .000, which is well below the typical significance level threshold of 0.05. The p-value for the agility test is .001, which is also below the 0.05 threshold. The study’s findings indicate that complex training significantly improves speed and agility in Pencak silat athletes.

The Effect of Playing Gamparan Training on the Ability of Long Kicks of Female Students Participating in Extracurricular Soccer

2026-01-03T16:39:00+01:00

Based on the issues of the unknown influence of exercise on playinggamparantowards the ability of long pass kick of the female football extracurricular participants, this study aims to determine the influence of exercise on playinggamparan towards the ability of long pass kick of the female football extracurricular participants of SMPN 2 Pengasih in 2014. This study is an experiment with randomized control group pretest-posttest design. The subjects of this study are the participants of female football extracurricular of SMPN 2 Pengasih, totaling 30 students. The instrument that is used is kicking for distance from Warner test of soccer skill. The validity level of this test is 0.827 and the reliability level is 0.905, it means that this instrument is able to give valid and reliable data. The data analysis technique is using independent sample t test at 5% signification level. The result of t test in the experimental group shows that t count (2.365)> t table (2.048), and the value of p < 0.05, whereas t count of the control group (0,186) < t table of the control group (2,048), and the value of p > 0.05. This result may imply that there is an influenceof exercise on playinggamparan to the distant of the kicked ball of the experimental group of the female football extracurricular participants of SMPN 2 Pengasih, Kulonprogo. The improvement level of exercise on playing gamparan towards the distant of the kicked ball is 31.83%. In conclution, exercise on playing gamparan can be one of efective exercises to improve the distant of kicked ball in football games.

The Impact of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation and Amotivation on Physical Activity Participation

2026-01-03T16:48:17+01:00

This research explores the impact of intrinsic, extrinsic, and amotivation on physical activity among young adults, using Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) as its guiding framework. The study investigates how these different types of motivation influence participation in physical activity. Data were collected from 245 participants aged 18 to 30, using the Sport Motivation Scale and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire to measure their motivation and physical activity levels. The findings reveal that intrinsic motivation, driven by personal enjoyment and interest in the activity, plays a key role in maintaining consistent physical activity over time. Extrinsic motivation, linked to external rewards such as recognition or approval, also encourages physical activity, though to a lesser degree. In contrast, amotivation, defined as a lack of intent or belief in one’s ability to engage in physical activity, negatively affects activity levels. These results emphasize the critical role of fostering intrinsic motivation to promote long-term engagement in physical exercise. The study provides important insights for designing effective interventions to encourage regular physical activity among young adults, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

Traditional Games and Motor Ability: Their Interaction in Enhancing Long Jump Performance in Elementary School Students

2026-01-03T17:20:39+01:00

The development of motor skills during childhood plays a crucial role in overall physical fitness and athletic performance. Traditional games, which hold cultural significance, serve as an effective method for enhancing these skills. This study aimed to investigate the comparative effects of two traditional games Engklek and Lompat Tali on the long jump performance of elementary school students, while considering different levels of motor ability. Specifically, it examined whether traditional game interventions could enhance motor skills (agility, coordination, explosive power, and speed) and translate into improved long jump outcomes. A factorial experimental design (2 × 2) was employed with a sample of 24 male students, aged 10–11 years, selected through purposive sampling. The participants were divided into two groups based on the traditional game intervention (Engklek or Lompat Tali) and further classified by motor ability levels (high or low). Motor skills were assessed using standardized tests measuring agility, coordination, explosive power, and speed. Long jump performance was evaluated based on four components: take-off, push, flight, and landing. Data analysis included normality and homogeneity tests, followed by a two-way ANOVA using SPSS version 23, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results indicate significant differences in long jump performance between students who participated in Engklek and those in Lompat Tali. Furthermore, a significant interaction effect was found between traditional games and motor ability levels. Students with high motor ability showed greater improvements in long jump skills compared to those with low motor ability, with variations observed between the two traditional game groups. These findings highlight the potential of integrating traditional games into physical education as a culturally relevant and engaging approach to improving motor skills and athletic performance. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term benefits of traditional games in broader sports training contexts.

Validity and Reliability of Sign Language Vr Media for Deaf Children’s Motor Skills

2026-01-04T11:40:23+01:00

This study aims to validate the gesture coordination learning media based on virtual reality (Vr) technology in sign language in improving the motor skills of deaf children. The method of this research is quantitative descriptive. The data collection technique was through the FGD focus group discussion by asking for opinions from 9 experts consisting of: 3 experts in the field of learning media, 3 experts in the field of children with disabilities, and 3 experts in the field of design and ergonomics, as well as 3 experts from extraordinary school teacher practitioners. The research instrument used a questionnaire given to experts to validate the sign language virtual reality (vr) technology-based motion coordination learning media that had been designed. Data analysis uses narrative to develop a design for motion coordination learning tools based on Virtual Reality (Rv) technology, and Aiken’s V analysis to test the validity of motion coordination learning media instruments based on Virtual Reality (Rv) technology, and the cronbach alpha test to test the reliability of the instrument. The results of the study show that in the content aspect of the result of the Aiken’s V coefficient of 0.888, the design aspect shows the coefficient value of Aiken’s V of 0.902, and the aspect of use shows the coefficient value of Aiken’s V of 0.891. Furthermore, an average reliability score of 0.831 was obtained. This means that it can be concluded that all aspects of the gesture coordination learning media based on virtual reality (VR) technology in sign language to improve the motor skills of deaf children have high validity and reliability of the content of the instrument.

Exercise and Emotional Well-being: What Does Physical Activity Bring to Our Happiness?

2026-01-04T11:47:14+01:00

This review paper was created with the intention of critically examining the findings of contemporary scientific research studies that explore the relationship between physical activity and the perception and experience of positive emotions and emotional states. The method used is bibliographic-speculative. The results indicate that physical activity contributes to the perception and experience of positive emotional states (colloquially: happiness), as assessed through some of the most commonly measured parameters (higher levels of subjective and psychological wellbeing, positive affect, quality of life, and lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress) across all stages of life.

Fighting Fit: How Interval Training Shapes Physical Performance in Martial Arts — A Systematic Review

2026-01-04T11:57:36+01:00

Success in martial arts and combat sports relies heavily on an athlete’s ability to integrate strength, endurance, speed, agility, and coordination in dynamic situations. Interval training is relevant because it stimulates multiple energy systems through moderate to high intensity training with short recovery periods. This study is a systematic review compiled according to PRISMA guidelines, reviewing articles from the PubMed database over the past five years. Six of the 212 articles identified met the inclusion criteria for further analysis. The results indicate that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) combined with specific techniques and HIIT with strength or plyometric training effectively improves aerobic and anaerobic capacity, muscle strength, speed, agility, and technical skills. In contrast, non-specific interventions such as photobiomodulation showed no significant effects. However, interindividual variation in training response exists, necessitating a personalized approach and ongoing performance monitoring. Methodological limitations in previous studies also emphasize the need for further studies with more consistent designs and more diverse populations. Overall, interval training, particularly technique-based HIIT, can be recommended as an effective strategy in improving the physical performance of martial artists.

Latency effects of IoT devices for measuring sports activities

2026-01-04T12:11:59+01:00

The Internet of Things (IoT) is increasingly being used in sports science to monitor performance, biomechanics and physiological parameters. However, latency, delay in data transmission and processing can affect the accuracy of measurements, especially in laboratory conditions where high precision is required. This paper analyzes the latency effects of IoT devices by different solutions, using a comparison of latency results, system architecture models, transmission media and other parameters. The results show that latency can cause significant deviations in the measurement of reaction time and biomechanical parameters, but it can be partially compensated by software methods, adequate selection of data transmission technology, and considering the choice and method of application of IoT devices as detection sensors. The consequences of latency can lead to an injury to the athlete or to a delay in giving feedback due to a mismatch in timing.

Yoga as Fitness Therapy to Improving Physical Strength and Body Balance: Systematic Literature Review

2026-01-04T12:57:41+01:00

Yoga, as a holistic fitness therapy, plays a vital role in enhancing physical strength and balance, nurturing overall well-being for people of all ages and backgrounds. Through a careful systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, we explored seven high-quality studies from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, published between 2015 and 2025. These studies reveal that yoga, especially hatha yoga, significantly boosts muscle strength by 8.9–17% and improves static and dynamic balance by 9.2–29%, helping reduce fall risks by up to 29% in older adults and easing chronic musculoskeletal pain. By blending physical postures (asanas), mindful breathing (pranayama), and meditation, yoga not only strengthens the body but also uplifts mental health and fosters a sense of community. Yet, challenges like inconsistent participation, a shortage of skilled instructors, and limited access in rural areas can hold back its impact. As an affordable and adaptable practice, yoga offers a meaningful way to combat non-communicable diseases and support Sustainable Development Goal 3: Health and Well-Being, paving the way for healthier, more connected communities.

Relationships Between Physical Activity and Symptoms of Stress, Anxiety and Depression

2026-01-04T13:07:55+01:00

This study examined the relationship between physical activity and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in adults. The sample consisted of 194 participants, aged 18 to 65, of whom 66% were women and 34% were men, mostly from Belgrade, Novi Sad and Kikinda, with over 70% having a higher education degree. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21), and a Socio-demographic questionnaire. The results partially confirmed the hypotheses that physical activity negatively affects symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. A negative correlation was found between the intensity of physical activity and symptoms of stress and depression, while the association with anxiety was not significant. The results showed that light physical activity, such as walking, significantly predicted lower levels of depression, while moderate and vigorous physical activity did not show a significant effect. This study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between physical activity and psychological symptoms by analyzing the results in the context of previous research and providing guideline for future studies.

Talent Identification Best on Skill Above Average and Creativity in Youth Football Athletes

2026-01-04T13:39:26+01:00

Identification athletic talent is an important step that serves as the fundamental basis for the success of sports performance development systems, especially in soccer. The success or failure of a performance development system is greatly influenced by the talent identification process. However, there is still much speculation about the effectiveness of this instrument in identifying talented players, due to a lack of standardization in academic football circles. The purpose of this study is to test the validity and reliability of the skill above average and creativity test instruments for football athletes. This study is a development study conducted using a quantitative and qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out using the Delphi technique, involving five experts. Data analysis used the V-Aiken validity test, Cronbach Alpha, and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) to test inter-rater reliability. Based on the results of the validity and reliability tests, the skill above average and creativity test instruments have a high level of validity and a good level of reliability. The validity test using V-Aiken yielded a result of 0.88, and the reliability test using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient ICC) showed a score of 0.789. Thus, the above-average skill and creativity test instrument for soccer athletes, which covers four aspects, namely anthropometry, physical, skills, and intelligence tests, can be used.

The Relationship Between Physical Condition and Mental Readiness of Football Players in Facing Competition

2026-01-04T13:45:34+01:00

This study examined the relationship between physical condition and mental readiness in football players preparing for competition. Twenty-five players from Club Persigar Garut (aged 23) were assessed ahead of the 2024/2025 Indonesian Liga 4 season. Physical condition was measured through tests of flexibility, strength (e.g., Hurdle Jump for lower-body power), speed, agility, power, and endurance, while mental readiness was evaluated using the Mental Skills Test-Football (MST-f). Results indicated high mental readiness (mean = 86.36%) with low variability. Speed and agility showed the highest scores; leg muscle strength was the lowest. A very strong, significant positive correlation was found between physical condition and mental readiness (r = 0.965; p < 0.01), highlighting the need for integrated physical and psychological training to optimize performance.