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Brown GA, Jones M, Cole B, Shawdon A, Duffield R. Self-Reported Menstrual Health, Symptomatology, and Perceived Effects of the Menstrual Cycle for Elite Junior and Senior Football Players. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:1012-1020. [PMID: 39089677 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the self-reported menstrual health, symptomatology, and perceived effects of the menstrual cycle on athletic performance for national and international Australian football (soccer) players. METHODS Players from national and domestic teams were invited to complete an online questionnaire regarding menstrual health, use of hormonal contraceptives (HCs), negative symptomatology, and perceived disruption of the menstrual cycle to performance. Descriptive statistics and binomial regressions with odds ratios (OR) were used to report the relationship of menstrual-related variables with perceived performance disruption. RESULTS A total of 199 players (20.9 [5.1] y) completed the questionnaire, with 18% of players reporting using HCs. One primary amenorrhea case was detected, and 26% of players reported menarche at age ≥15 years. For non-HC users, the prevalence of secondary amenorrhea was 2%, oligomenorrhea was 19%, and heavy menstrual bleeding was 11%. Ninety-seven percent of players reported experiencing physical or affective menstrual symptoms (5 [1.3] per player), and 40% of all players reported that menstrual symptoms impacted their ability to work, study, train, or compete. Furthermore, 40% of players perceived their training or performance to be disrupted by the menstrual cycle. Increasing number of menstrual symptoms (OR = 1.43; 95% CI, 1.28-1.62; P < .001), heavy menstrual bleeding (OR = 12.73; 95% CI, 3.4-82.8; P < .001), and pelvic pain (OR = 3.40; 95% CI, 1.7-7.2; P < .001) increased the likelihood of perceiving the menstrual cycle to disrupt performance. CONCLUSION Heavy menstrual bleeding and HC use were low among this cohort of national and international footballers, whereas amenorrhea and oligomenorrhoea were comparable with other football populations. Nearly all players reported menstrual symptoms, and increased symptomatology was associated with greater perceived effects on performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia A Brown
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Jones
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Anik Shawdon
- Australian Professional Leagues, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rob Duffield
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Verrier A, Knight CJ, Brown N. Perceptions of menstrual cycle tracking among elite rugby players. J Sports Sci 2024; 42:1538-1547. [PMID: 39270033 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2400810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of the current study was to understand female rugby players' perceptions of menstrual cycle (MC) tracking and identify the impact of MC tracking for the players. Interpretive descriptive methodology was adopted. Interviews were conducted with 12 elite female rugby players (age 25.2 ± 4.3 years), who were all naturally menstruating. Data were analysed following the four stages recommended within Interpretive Description. Results identified that athletes obtain personal benefits from MC tracking by; enhancing understanding of their MC and symptoms, and responding to their MC and symptoms. Athletes also reported that the process of tracking their MC enhanced relationships by; improving communication and interactions with coaches and support staff, and by facilitating team support. Specifically, using tracking increased the opportunities for open conversations with coaches, support staff and teammates regarding their MC. Overall, the findings highlight benefits of menstrual cycle tracking within this group of naturally menstruating rugby players, particularly in helping players and coaches understand the individual nature of the MC, engage in conversations, and establish support from teammates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Verrier
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Camilla J Knight
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Wales, UK
| | - Natalie Brown
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Wales, UK
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Carmichael MA, Roberts AH, Donaldson A, Clarke AC. Implementing menstrual cycle tracking: A pilot concept mapping study investigating considerations of coaches, support staff, and female athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2024; 27:557-564. [PMID: 38777738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify what coaches, support staff, and athletes believe should be considered when implementing menstrual cycle tracking in sport. DESIGN Concept mapping (mixed-methods participatory approach). METHODS Participants brainstormed statements in response to the focus prompt "What should be considered when tracking menstrual cycles in sport?" Participants then sorted the statements into groups according to meaning and rated each statement on its importance and feasibility to address. RESULTS Twenty-six participants (12 athletes and 14 coaches/support staff) generated 53 ideas that the research team synthesised to 57 unique statements. Sixteen participants sorted the statements into an average of 8 (±4) groups. Six clusters were identified as the most appropriate representation of the sorting data following multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis: 1) Ethics, 2) Tracking Tools and Methods, 3) Performance and Health, 4) Education, 5) Interpretation and Framing and 6) Communication. Participants rated each statement based on their importance (n = 12) and feasibility (n = 10), respectively. The most important (mean = 3.88 out of 5) and feasible (mean = 3.85 out of 5) cluster was Ethics, whilst the least important (mean = 3.17) and feasible (mean = 3.04) was Communication. CONCLUSIONS Ethical considerations pertaining to privacy, consent, and scope of practice should be prioritised when tracking menstrual cycles in sport. A low burden method of tracking, which allows for some individualisation based on athletes' preferences or needs, and menstrual health education should also be undertaken to improve the uptake and impact of menstrual cycle tracking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaeli A Carmichael
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, Sport and Exercise Science, La Trobe University, Australia.
| | - Alexandra H Roberts
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, Sport and Exercise Science, La Trobe University, Australia; Talent and Coaching, Queensland Academy of Sport, Australia. https://twitter.com/AlexHRoberts
| | - Alex Donaldson
- Centre for Sport and Social Impact, La Trobe University, Australia. https://twitter.com/AlexDonaldson13
| | - Anthea C Clarke
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, Sport and Exercise Science, La Trobe University, Australia. https://twitter.com/DrAntheaClarke
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4
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de Jager E, Willemsen M, Kempe M, Janssen I. Breaking barriers: Exploring female-specific health challenges affecting performance in an elite multisport training environment. J Sci Med Sport 2024; 27:466-471. [PMID: 38734513 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Female-specific issues, such as breast injuries, pelvic floor dysfunctions, saddle sores, and menstrual symptoms, can significantly impact female athletes. This study examined the prevalence, perceived impact on performance, and role of the support staff in addressing and managing these issues in elite athletes based at a multisport training centre. DESIGN Anonymous online questionnaire. METHODS A total of 180 female athletes from various sport disciplines at the Dutch Olympic Training Centre were invited to participate in the study. An anonymous, 39-item questionnaire was developed and hosted on Qualtrics collecting data on respondents' characteristics, breast injuries, pelvic floor dysfunctions, saddle sores, menstrual symptoms, contraceptive use, and communication about these issues. RESULTS A total of 105 valid responses were analysed. The findings revealed that athletes regularly experience breast injuries (15.2 %), urinary incontinence (29.5 %), other pelvic floor problems (21.0 %), saddle sores (65.7 %), and menstrual cycle-related symptoms, with negative performance effects. Communication with support staff remained limited, with only 23.8 % of athletes discussing any of these issues, often due to concerns about understanding, shame, or a lack of opportunity for easy communication. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the crucial role of creating a supportive environment, promoting early intervention, and utilising multisport centres to comprehensively address these concerns, emphasising the need for open communication, education, and support to enhance female athletes' performance and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline de Jager
- Sport Science and Innovation, National Sports Centre Papendal, the Netherlands; Medical Faculty, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Maaike Willemsen
- Sport Science and Innovation, National Sports Centre Papendal, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Kempe
- Medical Faculty, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ina Janssen
- Sport Science and Innovation, National Sports Centre Papendal, the Netherlands
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Nolan D, Horgan P, MacNamara A, Egan B. "Male athletes play well to feel good, and female athletes feel good to play well": Attitudes, beliefs, and practices pertaining to perceived sex-related differences in communication and interpersonal approach of strength and conditioning coaches in international women's rugby union. J Sports Sci 2024; 42:1289-1298. [PMID: 39118398 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2388992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Effective communication and rapport building with athletes are key tenets of coaching. As the majority of empirical evidence to date has adopted an androcentric view of strength and conditioning, a potential knowledge gap exists regarding sex-related differences in physical preparation and coaching approaches. Therefore, this study explored the attitudes, beliefs and practices of strength and conditioning coaches (n = 8; M/F, 6/2) in elite level (international) women's rugby union using semi-structured interviews (mean ±standard deviation duration 59 ± 15 min). The interviews explored differences in coaching practices for elite female rugby players compared to males, with a specific focus on the interpersonal aspects of the athlete-coach relationship. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to generate a rich qualitative dataset. The analysis resulted in the identification of higher order themes: athlete engagement, and interpersonal approach. The coaches in this study consistently perceived important differences between male and female players in factors related to engagement and interpersonal approach. Coaches adopted differing coaching practices for male and female athletes. This study provides important contextual evidence for the understanding of differences in the interpersonal relationships of female rugby players compared to male athletes from the perspective of elite-level strength coaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Nolan
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Aine MacNamara
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brendan Egan
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
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Srinivasa Gopalan S, Mann C, Rhodes RE. Impact of symptoms, experiences, and perceptions of the menstrual cycle on recreational physical activity of cyclically menstruating individuals: A systematic review. Prev Med 2024; 184:107980. [PMID: 38704099 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The menstrual cycle often presents barriers to participation in daily life activities, including physical activity (PA), which is a cornerstone of health and well-being. The purpose of this systematic review was to explore and summarize the impact of symptoms, experiences, and perceptions of the menstrual cycle on recreational PA (RPA), including sports, exercise and active recreation, in the general population. METHODS Six databases were searched for studies that investigated the impact of the menstrual cycle on PA among individuals who were cyclically menstruating, healthy, and not involved in professional sports training. RESULTS The search yielded 3025 studies that were screened for relevance and eligibility, resulting in 25 eligible studies, which were found to be of moderate-to-high quality following a quality and risk-of-bias assessment. Thematic synthesis of qualitative and quantitative data from the selected studies, constituting 16,557 adults and 3715 adolescents, identified the impact of menstrual symptoms on the physical and psychological capability to participate in RPA, social opportunity barriers to RPA (e.g., social pressure due to the sociocultural taboo against menstruation), as well reflective (knowledge) and automatic (habit) motivation on RPA behaviours. CONCLUSION The variability in menstrual symptoms and corresponding experiences suggested the need for an individualized approach to RPA promotion. Furthermore, this review highlighted the need to address the sociocultural taboo against menstruation, as well as improve the provision of knowledge and resources related to the menstrual cycle and RPA, in order to promote and facilitate RPA for cyclically menstruating individuals throughout the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharan Srinivasa Gopalan
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
| | - Caitlin Mann
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Ryan E Rhodes
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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7
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Rebelo A, Martinho DV, Pires IG, Arrais I, Lima R, Valente-Dos-Santos J, Pereira JR. Subjective and Objective Monitoring Markers: Are They Related to Game Performance Indicators in Elite Female Volleyball Players? Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:696-704. [PMID: 38772546 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This cohort study aimed to investigate the relationship between subjective (wellness and internal training load [ITL]) and objective (neuromuscular fatigue) monitoring markers and performance aspects (reception quality [RQ] and attack efficiency [AE]) in professional female volleyball players. METHODS The study was conducted over an 8-week period during the final mesocycle of the competitive phase. A total of 24 training sessions and 10 matches were included in the analysis. Subjective measures of wellness and ITL were assessed, and neuromuscular fatigue was evaluated using countermovement-jump (CMJ) height. RQ and AE were determined based on game statistics. RESULTS The study found a positive relationship between wellness and RQ, particularly affecting outside hitters and liberos. ITL showed a positive association with AE, primarily impacting outside hitters, opposite hitters, and middle blockers. Additionally, ITL demonstrated a negative correlation with RQ, mainly affecting outside hitters and liberos. CMJ performance was associated with AE, where a decrease in CMJ height was linked to reduced AE. CONCLUSIONS The findings highlight the importance of considering players' wellness scores in training and match strategies for different positions. Careful management of training loads, considering both physical and technical demands, is crucial for optimizing performance outcomes. Monitoring neuromuscular fatigue, as indicated by CMJ performance, is particularly relevant for outside hitters, opposite hitters, and middle blockers involved in attack actions. Coaches, trainers, and sports practitioners can use these insights to develop position-specific training protocols and implement effective strategies for maintaining or improving performance metrics under various stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Rebelo
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física e Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal
- COD, Center of Sports Optimization, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo V Martinho
- Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Laboratory of Robotics and Engineering Systems (LARSYS), Interactive Technologies Institute (ITI), Funchal, Portugal
| | - Inês G Pires
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física e Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal
- COD, Center of Sports Optimization, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Arrais
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física e Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal
- COD, Center of Sports Optimization, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Lima
- Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Sport Physical Activity and Health Research & Innovation Center (SPRINT), Melgaço, Portugal
| | - João Valente-Dos-Santos
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física e Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal
- COD, Center of Sports Optimization, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João R Pereira
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física e Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal
- COD, Center of Sports Optimization, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
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8
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Badenhorst CE. The Menstrual Health Manager (MHM): A Resource to Reduce Discrepancies Between Science and Practice in Sport and Exercise. Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02061-w. [PMID: 38904920 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Inadequate research on female health and performance; the complexity of the research; low menstrual health literacy of athletes, coaches, and support staff; and ethical and cultural sensitivities are all recognized as barriers to effective health monitoring for females in sports. Frameworks have been developed for academics to follow to help improve the quality of female-specific research. However, a similar resource that enables correct terminology, and use of health monitoring techniques has not been provided for sporting organizations, coaches, support staff or athletes. Therefore, this critical commentary presents a new resource, the Menstrual Health Manager. This resource may be used to determine the level of menstrual health monitoring detail that may be used by organisations, coaches or athletes, and specifies what reproductive health details the data will provide. This resource aims to provide organizations and coaches with a means of understanding the data that inform their decisions for female athletes. Utilization of this resource may aid in the consistent use of terminology and methods for female-specific health monitoring in both sports and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Badenhorst
- School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Gimunová M, Bozděch M, Bernaciková M, Fernandes R, Kumstát M, Paludo A. The relationship between low energy availability, injuries, and bone health in recreational female athletes. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17533. [PMID: 38915384 PMCID: PMC11195543 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Low energy availability (LEA) causes pathophysiology of the female athlete's body affecting the bone and reproductive health and was observed to have a high prevalence in recreational female athletes previously. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between low energy availability in females questionnaire (LEAF-Q), bone mineral density (BMD), and postural stability in recreational athletes. Methods Recreational female athletes (n = 24, age: 23.71 ± 2.94, Tier I) completed LEAF-Q, postural stability measurement during quiet stance (Zebris platform FDM; GmbH) and their BMD was measured using DXA (Hologic QDR Horizon A). Non-parametric statistical tests were used to analyse the relationships between LEAF-Q, BMD, and postural stability and to compare differences between participants divided by the LEAF-Q score and its subscales. Results Risk of LEA was observed in 50% of recreational athletes participating in this study. Up to 46% of participants perceived menstrual bleeding changes related to training and 37.50% experienced menstrual dysfunction. Body composition and body weight fluctuations were observed to affect postural stability and BMD. With the risk score for LEA, the BMD and postural stability were not negatively affected in recreational athletes. However, the high number of recreational athletes in the risk score for LEA and menstrual dysfunctions highlights the need for public health programs aimed to increase awareness of LEA and its health consequences and for open communication about the menstrual cycle. Future longitudinal studies observing LEA, BMD, menstrual function, postural stability, and their interrelationship in female athletes are needed to increase the knowledge of this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gimunová
- Department of Physical Activities and Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Bozděch
- Department of Physical Education and Social Sciences, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Bernaciková
- Department of Physical Activities and Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Romulo Fernandes
- Laboratory of InVestigation in Exercise–LIVE, Department of Physical Education, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michal Kumstát
- Department of Sport Performance and Exercise testing, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ana Paludo
- Department of Sport Performance and Exercise testing, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Shahid W, Noor R, Bashir MS. Effects of exercise on sex steroid hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) in eumenorrheic females: A systematic to review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:354. [PMID: 38890710 PMCID: PMC11186217 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03203-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sex steroid hormones fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, which affects the strength and postural stability of females and leads to injuries and risk of falls. These hormones may be modulated by exercise to impact the overall health of females. OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of exercise on sex steroid hormones in eumenorrheic females. METHODS This review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses(PRISMA) guidelines in Lahore, Pakistan. The full-length articles were searched using these databases/search engines (PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, Sci-Hub). Randomized controlled trials along with single group experimental studies were also included. All types of exercises were compared with no exercise in the control group. The Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool assessed and screened the articles. The data were then analyzed. The primary outcomes were the levels of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. RESULTS Eleven studies were included (5 randomized controlled trials and 6 quasi-experimental studies). The effects of exercise on free estradiol concentration and serum progesterone level were not significant [p = 0.37 (SMD = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.74, I2 = 0%) and p = 0.84 (S.D= -0.65, C.I= -6.92 to 5.62, I2 = 94%)] respectively, whereas, the effects on testosterone levels were significant [p value < 0.00001 (M.D = 0.89, 95% C.I= -2.16 to 3.95, I2 = 94%)]. CONCLUSION A blinded randomized controlled trial should be conducted in which a structured approach should be followed by women along with warm-ups, cool down and rest intervals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The systematic review was registered prospectively on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42023473767.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajiha Shahid
- Riphah College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, 54600, Pakistan.
| | - Rabiya Noor
- Riphah College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, 54600, Pakistan
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11
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De Larochelambert Q, Hamri I, Chassard T, Meignié A, Storme F, Dupuit M, Diry A, Toussaint JF, Louis PY, Coulmy N, Antero JDS. Exploring the effect of the menstrual cycle or oral contraception on elite athletes' training responses when workload is not objectively quantifiable: the MILS approach and findings from female Olympians. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001810. [PMID: 38882205 PMCID: PMC11177701 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Develop the Markov Index Load State (MILS) model, based on hidden Markov chains, to assess athletes' workload responses and investigate the effects of menstrual cycle (MC)/oral contraception (OC), sex steroids hormones and wellness on elite athletes' training. Methods On a 7-month longitudinal follow-up, daily training (volume and perceived effort, n=2200) and wellness (reported sleep quality and quantity, fitness, mood, menstrual symptoms, n=2509) data were collected from 24 female rowers and skiers preparing for the Olympics. 51 MC and 54 OC full cycles relying on 214 salivary hormone samples were analysed. MC/OC cycles were normalised, converted in % from 0% (first bleeding/pill withdrawal day) to 100% (end). Results MILS identified three chronic workload response states: 'easy', 'moderate' and 'hard'. A cyclic training response linked to MC or OC (95% CI) was observed, primarily related to progesterone level (p=8.23e-03 and 5.72e-03 for the easy and hard state, respectively). MC athletes predominantly exhibited the 'easy' state during the cycle's first half (8%-53%), transitioning to the 'hard' state post-estimated ovulation (63%-96%). OC users had an increased 'hard' state (4%-32%) during pill withdrawal, transitioning to 'easy' (50%-60%) when on the pill. Wellness metrics influenced the training load response: better sleep quality (p=5.20e-04), mood (p=8.94e-06) and fitness (p=6.29e-03) increased the likelihood of the 'easy' state. Menstrual symptoms increased the 'hard' state probability (p=5.92e-02). Conclusion The MILS model, leveraging hidden Markov chains, effectively analyses cumulative training load responses. The model identified cyclic training responses linked to MC/OC in elite female athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin De Larochelambert
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
- French Rowing Federation, Nogent-sur-Marne, France
- Scientific Department, Fédération Française de Ski, Annecy, France
- Institut de Mathématiques de Bourgogne, UMR 5584, CNRS & Université de Bourgogne, F-21000 Dijon, France, Dijon, France
| | - Imad Hamri
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Tom Chassard
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Alice Meignié
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Florent Storme
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Marine Dupuit
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Allison Diry
- French Rowing Federation, Nogent-sur-Marne, France
| | - Jean-François Toussaint
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
- CIMS, Hôtel-Dieu, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Yves Louis
- Institut de Mathématiques de Bourgogne, UMR 5584, CNRS & Université de Bourgogne, F-21000 Dijon, France, Dijon, France
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, INRAE, UMR PAM 1517, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Coulmy
- Scientific Department, Fédération Française de Ski, Annecy, France
| | - Juliana da Silva Antero
- Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidemiologie du Sport (IRMES), Institut National du Sport de l'Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
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12
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Oester C, Norris D, Scott D, Pedlar C, Bruinvels G, Lovell R. Inconsistencies in the perceived impact of the menstrual cycle on sport performance and in the prevalence of menstrual cycle symptoms: A scoping review of the literature. J Sci Med Sport 2024; 27:373-384. [PMID: 38508888 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This scoping review aimed to summarize the findings of studies regarding the perceived impact of the menstrual cycle on athletic performance, as well as the prevalence of negative menstrual cycle symptoms. DESIGN Scoping review. METHODS Three databases were searched and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used as guidance. RESULTS A total of 39 studies were included in the final analysis. Between 2.8 and 100 % of athletes reported their performance being negatively impacted by their menstrual cycle, and the main reason was the occurrence of menstrual cycle symptoms. Additionally, a large variability in the prevalence of menstrual cycle symptoms was reported in the different studies mainly due to methodological differences and recall biases. CONCLUSIONS Similarly, as to what has been reported in reviews summarizing performance outcomes during different menstrual cycle phases, this review highlights the high degree of variability between how athletes perceive to be impacted by their menstrual/hormonal contraceptive cycle. REGISTRATION The protocol of this scoping review was registered at the Open Science Framework on 14 September 2023 (osf.io/efu9x).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Oester
- Western Sydney University, School of Health Sciences, Australia.
| | - Dean Norris
- Western Sydney University, School of Health Sciences, Australia. https://twitter.com/DNorrisSC
| | - Dawn Scott
- Washington Spirit, USA. https://twitter.com/DawnScott06
| | - Charles Pedlar
- St Mary's University, Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Science, United Kingdom; National University of Ireland, Orreco Business Innovation Unit, Ireland; University College of London, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/PedlarCR
| | - Georgie Bruinvels
- St Mary's University, Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Science, United Kingdom; National University of Ireland, Orreco Business Innovation Unit, Ireland; University College of London, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/GBruinvels
| | - Ric Lovell
- Western Sydney University, School of Health Sciences, Australia; University of Wollongong, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, Australia. https://twitter.com/Ric_Lovell
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13
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Barlow A, Blodgett JM, Williams S, Pedlar CR, Bruinvels G. Injury Incidence, Severity, and Type Across the Menstrual Cycle in Female Footballers: A Prospective Three Season Cohort Study. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:1151-1158. [PMID: 38227488 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to assess the influence of menstrual cycle phase on injury incidence, severity, and type in elite female professional footballers over three seasons. METHODS Time-loss injuries and menstrual cycle data were prospectively recorded for 26 elite female football players across three seasons. The menstrual cycle was categorized into four phases using a standardized model: menstruation (phase 1; P1), remainder of follicular phase (phase 2; P2), early luteal (phase 3; P3), and premenstrual phase (phase 4; P4). Injury incidence rates (IIR) and ratios (IIRR) were calculated for overall injuries, injury severity, type, contact vs noncontact, and game/training. RESULTS A total of 593 cycles across 13,390 d were tracked during the study, and 74 injuries from 26 players were eligible for analysis. When comparing IIR between phases (reference: P1), overall injury rates were highest in P4 (IIRR, 2.30 (95% confidence interval, 0.99-5.34; P = 0.05)). When examining rates by injury severity and type, IIR values were also highest in P4 for ≤7 d' time-loss (4.40 (0.93-20.76; P = 0.06)), muscle-specific (6.07 (1.34-27.43; P = 0.02)), and noncontact (3.05 (1.10-8.50; P = 0.03)) injuries. Muscle-specific (IIRR P3/P1, 5.07 (1.16-22.07; P = 0.03)) and ≤7 d' time-loss (4.47 (1.01-19.68; P = 0.05)) injury risk was also significantly higher in P3. Muscle injuries were the most prevalent subtype ( n = 41). No anterior cruciate ligament injuries were recorded across the monitoring period. CONCLUSIONS Injury risk was significantly elevated during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (P3 and P4) among elite female professional footballers. Further research is urgently needed to better understand the influence of the menstrual cycle on injury risk and to develop interventions to mitigate risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ally Barlow
- Centre for Health, and Injury & Illness Prevention in Sport, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Joanna M Blodgett
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Sean Williams
- Centre for Health, and Injury & Illness Prevention in Sport, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UNITED KINGDOM
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14
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Querevalú-Pancorbo I, Rojas-Cama LF, Soncco-Llulluy F, Li J, Rosales-Rimache J. Abnormal uterine bleeding and associated factors: a cross-sectional study in high-performance Peruvian athletes. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001820. [PMID: 38818354 PMCID: PMC11138278 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a problem that affects women and can cause outcomes such as anaemia, affecting women's quality of life. In high-performance athletes, this problem can be further exacerbated by intense physical activity, strict nutritional regimens and physical stress. Hypothesis There are factors that increase the risk of occurrence of AUB in high-performance Peruvian athletes. Study design Cross-sectional study. Level of evidence Level 4. Methods We applied an online questionnaire with questions to identify AUB according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics criteria, demographic characteristics, sport practised and evaluation of the risk of an eating disorder using the Eating Attitudes Test questionnaire. We used a generalised linear model to identify factors associated with AUB. Results We evaluated 101 participants whose mean age was 22.3±4.3 years. The body mass index had a mean of 22.6±2.4 kg/m2. From the total of athletes, 68.3% (95% CI 58.6% to 76.7%) presented AUB. The bivariate analysis showed that the type of sport and the duration of the sporting activity were associated (p<0.05) with AUB, with AUB frequencies of 76.5% observed in athletes who practised anaerobic sports. The multivariate analysis did not report factors significantly associated with AUB. Conclusion We found a high frequency of AUB in high-performance Peruvian athletes, especially in those who practice anaerobic and resistance sports. Clinical relevance High-performance female athletes health must be evaluated periodically, and immediate actions are taken to control and treat AUB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jair Li
- Escuela de Posgrado, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Jaime Rosales-Rimache
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Tecnología Médica, Universidad Continental, Huancayo, Peru
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15
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Howe OR. Ethical Risks of Systematic Menstrual Tracking in Sport. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2024:10.1007/s11673-023-10333-9. [PMID: 38762835 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-023-10333-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
In this article it will be concluded that systematic menstrual tracking in women's sport has the potential to cause harm to athletes. Since the ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (2022) in the United States, concerns regarding menstrual health tracking have arisen. Research suggests that the menstrual tracking of female athletes presents potential risks to "women's autonomy, privacy, and safety in sport" (Casto 2022, 1725). At present, the repercussions of systematic menstrual tracking are particularly under-scrutinized, and this paper seeks to combine novel research in the sport sciences with present ethical debates in the philosophy of sports. Utilizing Beauvoir's feminist philosophy (2011), this paper argues that systematic menstrual tracking may contribute to the wider system of women's oppression by exploiting female athletes, as well as enabling the internalization of submissive behaviour in cultures where athletes are expected to comply unquestioningly. Five policy recommendations are made concerning autonomy, informed consent, education, safeguarding and data access. The overall findings of this paper propose that a more in-depth understanding of the links between data, privacy, and the menstrual cycle are required by sports organizations and governing bodies if athletes are to be protected in a future where systematic menstrual tracking is inevitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia R Howe
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, José Martího 269/31, 162 52, Prague 6, Veleslavín, Czech Republic.
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16
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Lee SJL, Peiffer JJ, Haakonssen E, Van Rens FECA. Can period-related symptoms predict menstrual manipulation among Australian female cyclists? J Sports Sci 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38590213 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2334485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
This study explored the extent of menstrual manipulation and its associated impact on period-related symptoms and training disruptions in Australian Female Cyclists. 205 female cyclists, from recreational to elite level, participated in an online "Female Cyclist Questionnaire (FCQ)". The FCQ utilised a series of validated questionnaires to obtain demographic information and menstrual function of the respondents, and to investigate their menstrual manipulation habits and perceptions on how their period-related symptoms affected their well-being, mood, energy and training tolerance. More than 80% of the cyclists reported that their period-related symptoms impacted upon training and 41% made training adjustments based on these symptoms. Two-thirds of respondents thought their training should be phase-controlled yet only half discussed their hormonal cycles with their coaches. Menstrual manipulation was predicted by reduced "workout tolerance" in these cyclists (odds ratio = 0.632). Half of the respondents reported compromised ability to tolerate high-intensity interval training with period-related symptoms. Period pain, increased irritability, lower energy levels and more sugar cravings were commonly reported but did not predict menstrual manipulation. The data indicated that period-related symptoms are present in Australian female cyclists across all levels of participation. However, the perceived impact to training and subsequent behavioural changes varied among individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serene J L Lee
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch Applied Sports Science Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Jeremiah J Peiffer
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch Applied Sports Science Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Eric Haakonssen
- Australian Cycling Team, Cycling Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Fleur E C A Van Rens
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- Discipline of Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
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17
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Hamed-Hamed D, González-Muñoz A, Cuevas-Cervera M, Perez-Montilla JJ, Aguilar-Nuñez D, Aguilar-García M, Pruimboom L, Navarro-Ledesma S. Effects of the menstrual cycle on the performance of female football players. A systematic review. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1359953. [PMID: 38651042 PMCID: PMC11033481 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1359953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Women's football has been booming for a few years now, which has led to an increase in the expectation of the players' performance, leading to a more detailed study of women's physiology in the field of sports. Objectives To analyze the scientific evidence on the influence of menstruation on the performance of female footballers, as well as to analyze the methodological quality of the studies included in this review. Materials and methods The possible hormonal effects of the menstrual cycle phases on the performance of female footballers were analyzed. The databases used to conduct the searches were Pubmed, Scopus, Virtual Health Library, Web of Science, EBSCO and the Cochrane Library. All included studies met the inclusion criteria. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used. This systematic review protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42023390652). Results A total of nine clinical trials were included in this review. A low quality of evidence was observed in the studies. Not all the results support the idea that the menstrual cycle phases can alter the performance of female footballers. Conclusion This systematic review shows that there is a great deal of controversy about the influence of the menstrual cycle phases on the performance of female footballers. Studies are focused on solely biological factors and gender is normally no part of those studies. Further research with larger samples, and taking not only biological but also sociological factors, are necessary to determine the effects of menstruation on the performance of female footballers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Hamed-Hamed
- Clinical Medicine and Public Health PhD Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana González-Muñoz
- Clinical Medicine and Public Health PhD Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Clinica Ana Gonzalez, Malaga, Spain
| | | | - Jose Javier Perez-Montilla
- Clinical Medicine and Public Health PhD Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Daniel Aguilar-Nuñez
- Department of Nursing and Podiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - María Aguilar-García
- Biomedicine PhD Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Leo Pruimboom
- University Chair in Clinical Psychoneuroimmunology, University of Granada and PNI Europe, Melilla, Spain
| | - Santiago Navarro-Ledesma
- University Chair in Clinical Psychoneuroimmunology, University of Granada and PNI Europe, Melilla, Spain
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Melilla, Spain
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18
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Gibbons AE, Pedlar C, Varner Hemi K, Bruinvels G, Hamilton B, Thorpe H. Moving from ethnic exclusions to cultural safety: how is athlete ethnicity discussed in research on menstrual health in sports? A scoping review. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:435-443. [PMID: 38408858 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate how athlete ethnicity is discussed in the inclusion and exclusion criteria, methodology, findings, and conclusions of research focused on menstrual health in sports science and medicine. DESIGN A scoping review of sports-based research conducted on athletes related to (1) menstrual health and ethnicity, (2) how researchers include/exclude participants based on ethnicity and (3) how ethnicity is discussed. DATA SOURCES Electronic search of PubMed and ProQuest. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Articles were included if they met the following criteria: (1) published before September 2023, (2) published in peer-reviewed journals, (3) participants were women athletes, (4) published in English and (5) relating to menstrual health. Articles were assessed as good, fair or poor quality using the Inclusion of Participant Ethnicity Quality Assessment Criteria. RESULTS From the 1089 studies available from the initial database search, 55 studies considered ethnicity. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were assessed as either good (22%), fair (44%) or poor (33%) in quality in their consideration of athlete ethnicity. 81% of research articles on menstrual health in sports do not consider athlete ethnicity, and when ethnicity is discussed, it rarely meets the criteria for cultural safety in the research process. Most studies did not factor ethnicity into the analysis and lacked cultural considerations in the research design and interventions. CONCLUSION More careful inclusion of ethnicity in sports menstrual health-related research and recognition of social and cultural influences on health and research outcomes for indigenous and other ethnic minority groups is needed. Such research is required to support coaches, medical personnel and support staff in designing culturally safe environments for sportswomen from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agatha Elizabeth Gibbons
- Te Huataki Waiora - School of Health, Division of Health, Engineering, Computing & Science, Department of Social Physical and Health Education, The University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Charles Pedlar
- St Mary's University Twickenham Faculty of Sport Allied Health and Performance Sciences, Twickenham, UK
| | | | - Georgie Bruinvels
- Surgery and Interventional Science, St Mary's University Twickenham, Twickenham, UK
| | - Bruce Hamilton
- Sports Medicine, High Performance Sport New Zealand AUT Millenium Institute of Sport and Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Holly Thorpe
- Faculty of Health, Sport and Human Performance, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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19
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Scott D, Bruinvels G, Norris D, Lovell R. The Dose-Response in Elite Soccer: Preliminary Insights From Menstrual-Cycle Tracking During the FIFA Women's World Cup 2019. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:331-339. [PMID: 38198788 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This preliminary study examined the influence of estimated menstrual-cycle (MC) phase on responses to soccer matches and training sessions in preparation for and during the FIFA (Fédération internationale de football association) Women's World Cup 2019. METHODS Twenty outfield players representing a national team were tracked over a 45-day period. External (10-Hz global positioning system; total and distance covered at high-metabolic power [≥20 W·kg-1]) and internal load measures (minutes ≥80% heart-rate maximum, sessional ratings of perceived exertion) were collected during all training and matches, with single-item wellness measures (fatigue, soreness, sleep quality, and sleep duration) collected each morning prior to activity. MC phase was estimated individually via an algorithm, informed from pretournament survey responses and ongoing symptom reporting (FitrWoman). Model comparison statistics were used to determine the impact of estimated MC phase in nonhormonal contraceptive users (n = 16). RESULTS Sessional rating of perceived exertion responses to total distances ≥5 km were higher during the luteal phase (+0.6-1.0 au; P ≤ .0178) versus menstruation (phase 1), but no other observable dose-response trends were observed. Sleep, fatigue, and soreness ratings were not typically associated with MC phase, with the exception of exacerbated fatigue ratings in luteal versus follicular phase 48 hours postmatch (-0.73 au, P = .0275). CONCLUSIONS Preliminary findings suggest that estimated MC phase may contribute to the understanding of the dose-response to soccer training and matches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Scott
- Performance, Medical & Innovation Department, Washington Spirit Soccer Club, Washington, DC, USA
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Georgie Bruinvels
- Orreco Ltd, Galway, Ireland
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
- St Mary's University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dean Norris
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Ric Lovell
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
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20
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Bereś Ł, Pyrzanowska J, Mirowska-Guzel D, Obszański M, Pyrzanowski P. Optimization of the seat position for a personal vehicle equipped with a crankset: pilot study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5822. [PMID: 38461198 PMCID: PMC10924923 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56446-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to optimize the seat for a personal vehicle equipped with a crankset mechanism, meant for everyday use. The inclination of the seat backrest was selected on the basis of theoretical considerations. Then dynamic tests were carried out on a group of young, healthy men in order to verify the ergonomic aspects of the seat position in relation to the crankset and determine the efficiency of the human-mechanism system with a load of 50 W. The data obtained from the dynamic tests were subject to statistical analysis. Research has shown that higher seat positions result in statistically higher efficiencies. In addition, a holistic analysis of the personal vehicle design problem shows that the upper position of the seat is also the best. The results of the research can be used to optimize personal vehicles using human force as a drive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Bereś
- Institute of Aeronautics and Applied Mechanics, Warsaw University of Technology, Nowowiejska str. 24, 00-665, Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Justyna Pyrzanowska
- Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury str. 61, 02-091, Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Marcin Obszański
- Institute of Aeronautics and Applied Mechanics, Warsaw University of Technology, Nowowiejska str. 24, 00-665, Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Pyrzanowski
- Institute of Aeronautics and Applied Mechanics, Warsaw University of Technology, Nowowiejska str. 24, 00-665, Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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21
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Jones BP, L'Heveder A, Bishop C, Kasaven L, Saso S, Davies S, Chakraverty R, Brown J, Pollock N. Menstrual cycles and the impact upon performance in elite British track and field athletes: a longitudinal study. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1296189. [PMID: 38445211 PMCID: PMC10912517 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1296189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the prevalence of menstrual disorders and the perceived effect of menstrual cycles upon performance in elite athletes. Methodology A longitudinal survey in the form of a questionnaire was sent to female track and field athletes at British Athletics every 6 months, over a five-year period between 1st October 2014 and 1st October 2019 in the United Kingdom (UK). Results 128 athletes completed an average of 4.2 ± 2.9 questionnaires across the study period. The mean age of menarche was 14.2 ± 1.4 years, 13.4 ± 1.3 years and 12.8 ± 1.4 years in endurance, power, and thrower athletes respectively (p < 0.05). Two-thirds (66%; n = 82) reported consistently regular cycles, 30% (n = 37) irregular at some point during the period of observation and 4% (n = 5) were amenorrhoeic. 87 athletes (68%) reported dysmenorrhoea and 40 (31%) menorrhagia. More than three quarters (76.8%; n = 96) described their cycle negatively affected performance. Amongst those who reported when the negative impact occurred (n = 91), 40% (n = 36) reported this in the late luteal phase and 35% (n = 32) during the early follicular phase. 79% (n = 100) of athletes reported at least one cyclical symptom, of which bloating, lower back and pelvic pain were most frequently experienced. Conclusion This data highlights the complex interrelationship between women's health and elite athletic performance. Athletes perceive a negative impact from their menstrual cycles upon performance with a desire to manage these more effectively, particularly during competition. Female reproductive health expertise in the multi-disciplinary management of elite athletes is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin P. Jones
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, HCA Healthcare, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ariadne L'Heveder
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cutrale and Perioperative Ageing Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Bishop
- Women's Health, West Middlesex University Hospital, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, Isleworth, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Kasaven
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cutrale and Perioperative Ageing Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Davies
- National Performance Institute, British Athletics, Loughborough, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin Chakraverty
- National Performance Institute, British Athletics, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - James Brown
- National Performance Institute, British Athletics, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Noel Pollock
- National Performance Institute, British Athletics, Loughborough, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Hayward E, Akam L, Hunter D, Mastana S. Role of the Menstrual Cycle on Performance and Injury Risk: A Survey of Female Professional Rugby Players in the United Kingdom. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:150. [PMID: 38397641 PMCID: PMC10888092 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female athletic performance and injury risk is impacted by variations in the menstrual cycle (MC), but the understanding of the impacts and mechanisms influenced by the menstrual cycle on exercise performance are not fully delineated. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Evaluate associations between the menstrual cycle, perceived performance, and injury risk of elite female rugby players using an online survey. METHODS An anonymous online questionnaire was completed by 150 elite female rugby players from two English rugby leagues, the Betfred Women's Super League (BWSL) and the Allianz Premier 15s (AP15s). The collected data were analysed thematically. RESULTS The Chi-square test was used to assess associations between age groups and contraception usage, weight change, and training and playing performance; none of the associations were statistically significant (all p values > 0.05). Thematic analysis of 11,660 words of data revealed four themes: (a) MC impact on training and competition, (b) education and period management plans, (c) openness of conversations and comfort taking time off, and (d) injury risk. The impacted performance areas were physical (83.7%), psychological (85.7%), and nutritional (80.3%); players experienced decreased appetite, nausea, fatigue, strength declines, heighted emotions, and worsened focus. In total, 87.8% of athletes perceived the MC to negatively impact performance, 85.7% of players desired to be educated further to prevent injuries, improve nutrition, and training adaptions, 51.7% of participants perceived risk of injury to be higher during MC, and 86.4% of participants did not feel comfortable taking time off due to the MC, worrying that selection would be affected and about opinions from others. CONCLUSION A clear negative impact on perceived performance and injury risk was reported by survey participants. The interaction of physical, psychological, and nutritional factors, and a lack of awareness and education emphasise the need for further comprehensive studies and interventions, with measures such as MC monitoring and profiling, education, and training adaptions to develop openness, knowledge, and understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sarabjit Mastana
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK; (E.H.); (L.A.); (D.H.)
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23
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Juillard E, Douchet T, Paizis C, Babault N. Impact of the Menstrual Cycle on Physical Performance and Subjective Ratings in Elite Academy Women Soccer Players. Sports (Basel) 2024; 12:16. [PMID: 38251290 PMCID: PMC10820559 DOI: 10.3390/sports12010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Our study aimed to combine psychological and physical factors to explore the impact of the menstrual cycle on performance in elite academy women soccer players through weekly monitoring. Eighteen elite academy women soccer players were monitored. Players reported daily through an online anonymous survey if they were in menstruation. Players answered the Hooper Questionnaire daily, performed an Illinois Agility Test (IAT) twice a week, and rated their perceived exertion (RPE) after every training session. Tests were associated with a complete menstrual cycle reported through the online anonymous survey to determine the two weeks of the follicular phase and the two weeks of the luteal phase. Of the 18 players, 10 completed all requirements and were retained for analyses. IAT did not show significant differences throughout the menstrual cycle (p = 0.633). Fatigue (p = 0.444), Stress (p = 0.868), Sleep (p = 0.398), DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness; p = 0.725), and Hooper Index (p = 0.403) did not show significant differences either. RPE was also comparable across the cycle (p = 0.846). Our results failed to demonstrate that hormonal variation during the menstrual cycle influenced psychological and physical markers of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Juillard
- Dijon Football Côte d’Or (DFCO), 17 Rue du Stade, 21000 Dijon, France; (E.J.); (T.D.)
| | - Tom Douchet
- Dijon Football Côte d’Or (DFCO), 17 Rue du Stade, 21000 Dijon, France; (E.J.); (T.D.)
- Center for Performance Expertise, CAPS, U1093 INSERM, Sport Science Faculty, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, 3 Allée des Stades Universitaires, BP 27877, CEDEX, 21078 Dijon, France;
| | - Christos Paizis
- Center for Performance Expertise, CAPS, U1093 INSERM, Sport Science Faculty, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, 3 Allée des Stades Universitaires, BP 27877, CEDEX, 21078 Dijon, France;
| | - Nicolas Babault
- Center for Performance Expertise, CAPS, U1093 INSERM, Sport Science Faculty, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, 3 Allée des Stades Universitaires, BP 27877, CEDEX, 21078 Dijon, France;
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Taim BC, Lye J, Suppiah HT, Chan TW, Chia M, Clarke A. Menstrual cycle characteristics, perceived impact on performance, and barriers to communication: Perspectives of high-performance adolescent athletes in Singapore. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14488. [PMID: 37682006 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the menstrual cycle (MC) characteristics, explore the impact on performance, and identify barriers to and facilitators of MC-related communication among high-performance female adolescent athletes in Singapore. Ninety athletes (15.4 ± 1.8 years) from multiple sports completed an online questionnaire. Eighty-four athletes were postmenarcheal (menarcheal age 11.9 ± 1.3 years), including two who were using an oral contraceptive pill (OCP). Secondary amenorrhea, current or history of, was self-reported in 16% of athletes. Sixty-two percent and 67% of non-OCP athletes perceived that the MC affected their ability to train and compete, respectively. Athletes preferred speaking to a parent (85%) and a female figure (67%) about MC-related concerns. Through thematic analysis, three barriers to communication were constructed: (1) pervasive menstrual stigma, (2) constraints of the training environment, and (3) the low value placed on MC-related conversations. Two facilitators of communication were constructed: (1) respect athletes' individual experiences as menstruating girls and (2) foster a safe space for MC-related conversations. Findings demonstrated that menstrual irregularities are common in adolescent athletes and screening for MC disorders, particularly primary amenorrhea should be undertaken in this population, with clear support pathways for management including symptom mitigation. To support athletes in raising MC-related concerns when needed, structured communication pathways that consider individual preferences and involve a (female) point of contact should be established within the training environment. Improving menstrual health literacy among adolescent athletes before any misinformation or negative perceptions are firmly established may contribute to longevity in their athletic careers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Cherianne Taim
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone, Ireland
- SHE Research Group, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Athlone, Ireland
- National Youth Sports Institute, Singapore
| | - Jamie Lye
- National Youth Sports Institute, Singapore
- Human Potential Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haresh T Suppiah
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Michael Chia
- Physical Education and Sports Science Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Anthea Clarke
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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Carraro A, Gilic B, Bertolo R, Albergoni A, Sarto F, Roklicer R, Sarto D. Lower back pain in young climbers: a retrospective cross-sectional study. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1328811. [PMID: 38186399 PMCID: PMC10770867 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1328811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The popularity of sport climbing has been growing since its inclusion in the Olympic Games program, which led to more people practicing it on recreational, amateur, and professional levels. Strenuous climbing training sessions and competitions might lead to frequent and serious musculoskeletal injuries and complaints among competitive climbers. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) and to explore the influence of various risk factors on LBP in adolescent climbers. Methods The sample included 180 competitive climbers (46.6% males) aged 13-19 years competing in under-16 (48.3%) or under-20 categories. Data collection was carried out using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS). Results A total of 74.4% of the entire sample of participants (male = 75%; female = 74%) reported lower back complaints throughout the past twelve months, and only 15.5% during the last seven days. A major part of complaints was classified as low intensity-low disability (Grade I, 62.8%; male = 72.6%; female = 54.2%). Under-20 competitors reported a small but significantly higher percentage of almost all NMQ measures compared to under-16 athletes. Conclusions This study found a relatively high prevalence of LBP, although complaints were of limited severity and did not affect climbers' regular training practice. Moreover, climbers did not differ in LBP prevalence according to sex, while climbers from the older age group reported higher complaints and seeking medical attention than younger climbers. Future studies should prospectively monitor the influence of climbing on LBP in youth climbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attilio Carraro
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bozen, Italy
| | - Barbara Gilic
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Riccardo Bertolo
- Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Opera Verticale, Scorzè, Venezia, Italy
| | - Andrea Albergoni
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bozen, Italy
| | - Fabio Sarto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Roklicer
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bozen, Italy
| | - Diego Sarto
- School of Human Movement Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Vogel K, Larsen B, McLellan C, Bird SP. Female Athletes and the Menstrual Cycle in Team Sports: Current State of Play and Considerations for Future Research. Sports (Basel) 2023; 12:4. [PMID: 38275983 PMCID: PMC10818287 DOI: 10.3390/sports12010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past ten years there has been a dramatic rise in female sport participation and accompanying female professional national leagues across multiple sports, yet research has not followed suit. Although there are known variations between female and male physiology, training protocols in female sport are predominantly underpinned by research undertaken in male athletes. The hormonal variability experienced by women across the menstrual cycle, as well as the menstrual cycle variability between women, may contribute to the complexity of conducting rigorous physiological studies, leading to a paucity of robust sports-specific research that can be confidently applied to female athletes. Moreover, barriers exist in female sport that potentially limit the ability to conduct research, including the lack of full-time programs and limited resources. Recently, there has been increased interest in the potential effects of fluctuations in the female sex hormones, progesterone and oestrogen, on sport performance across different phases of the menstrual cycle. However, current research evaluating the menstrual cycle and physical performance (such as strength, speed, aerobic fitness, and athletes' perception of their performance) have shown inconsistent results. Additionally, methodological design across studies has shown little consistency, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions, which potentially prevents female athletes optimising their physical and sporting performance. It further impacts coaches and sports science researchers in their ability to provide appropriate training recommendations and educational opportunities. It is important to progress in female athlete research with an understanding of how the unique physiology of female athletes may influence their ability to physically perform in their respective sport, which requires representation in sports science research. This paper will provide an overview on current evidence and limitations within menstrual cycle research and provide considerations and directions for future research in this space within team sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Vogel
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
- Lions Football Club, Richlands, QLD 4077, Australia
- Brisbane Tigers Rugby League Club, Coorparoo, QLD 4151, Australia
| | - Brianna Larsen
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Chris McLellan
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Florida Panthers, Sunrise, FL 33323, USA
| | - Stephen P. Bird
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
- Basketball New Zealand, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
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Gasperi L, Sansone P, Gómez-Ruano MÁ, Lukonaitienė I, Conte D. Female basketball game performance is influenced by menstrual cycle phase, age, perceived demands and game-related contextual factors. J Sports Sci 2023:1-8. [PMID: 38059487 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2023.2285119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the influence of physical and perceived game demands, menstrual cycle phase, perceived recovery, individual and game-related contextual factors on competitive performance in professional, female basketball players.11 professional female players (age: 20.6 ± 2.7 years) were monitored for game-related statistics (Performance Index Rating, PIR; rebounds, REB; effective field goal %, eFG%; turnovers, TO), objective (PlayerLoad per minute, PL·min-1) and subjective (RPE) game loads, pre-game perceived recovery (Total Quality Recovery, TQRpre), menstrual phase (follicular; luteal) and game-related contextual factors (game location; game outcome; score differential; opponent level) during 12 official games. Separate linear mixed models were used to evaluate the influence of RPE, PL·min-1, TQRpre, menstrual phase, contextual factors, and individual characteristics (age; playing position) on game-related statistics.Higher PIR and eFG% were found for older players and those who reported higher RPE (all p < 0.05). Higher age also led to less TO (p = 0.042). eFG% was higher when players reported higher TQRpre ;(p = 0.010). Better shooting (eFG%) and rebounding (REB) performances were found during the follicular menstrual phase (p < 0.05). More REB were collected in won games (p = 0.002).This study suggests that the co-influences of perceptual, menstrual-related, individual and game-related contextual factors should be considered to optimise female basketball players' performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Gasperi
- Facultad de Ciencias de La Actividad Física y Del Deporte, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pierpaolo Sansone
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Miguel-Ángel Gómez-Ruano
- Facultad de Ciencias de La Actividad Física y Del Deporte, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inga Lukonaitienė
- Department of Coaching Science, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Daniele Conte
- Department of Coaching Science, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
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Piasecki J, Guo Y, Jones EJ, Phillips BE, Stashuk DW, Atherton PJ, Piasecki M. Menstrual Cycle Associated Alteration of Vastus Lateralis Motor Unit Function. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:97. [PMID: 37874413 PMCID: PMC10597975 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00639-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen and progesterone are the primary female sex hormones and have net excitatory and inhibitory effects, respectively, on neuronal function. Fluctuating concentrations across the menstrual cycle has led to several lines of research in relation to neuromuscular function and performance; however evidence from animal and cell culture models has yet to be demonstrated in human motor units coupled with quantification of circulating hormones. Intramuscular electromyography was used to record motor unit potentials and corresponding motor unit potential trains from the vastus lateralis of nine eumenorrheic females during the early follicular, ovulation and mid luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, alongside assessments of neuromuscular performance. Multi-level regression models were applied to explore effects of time and of contraction level. Statistical significance was accepted as p < 0.05. RESULTS Knee extensor maximum voluntary contraction, jump power, force steadiness, and balance did not differ across the menstrual phases (all p > 0.4). Firing rate of low threshold motor units (10% maximum voluntary contraction) was lower during the ovulation and mid luteal phases (β = - 0.82 Hz, p < 0.001), with no difference in motor unit potentials analysed from 25% maximum voluntary contraction contractions. Motor unit potentials were more complex during ovulation and mid luteal phase (p < 0.03), with no change in neuromuscular junction transmission instability (p > 0.3). CONCLUSIONS Assessments of neuromuscular performance did not differ across the menstrual cycle. The suppression of low threshold motor unit firing rate during periods of increased progesterone may suggest a potential inhibitory effect and an alteration of recruitment strategy; however this had no discernible effect on performance. These findings highlight contraction level-dependent modulation of vastus lateralis motor unit function over the eumenorrheic cycle, occurring independently of measures of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Yuxiao Guo
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor J Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Dupuit M, Meignié A, Chassard T, Blanquet L, LeHeran J, Delaunay T, Bernardeau E, Toussaint JF, Duclos M, Antero J. On-Field Methodological Approach to Monitor the Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Phases in Elite Female Athletes. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:1169-1178. [PMID: 37666497 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Currently, there are no guidelines for implementing the monitoring of menstrual status, including the natural menstrual cycle (NC) or oral contraception (OC), in a sport setting. We aimed to provide a feasible, on-field methodological approach for monitoring NC and OC in female athletes. METHODS We developed a smartphone app with daily questionnaires to monitor both NC and OC phases in 19 elite female soccer players (23.7 [4.4] y) over 7 months. Adherence and compliance were evaluated. The NC and OC phases were based on calendar data to establish an individual menstrual profile for each athlete. RESULTS The initial questionnaire revealed that the vast majority of female players (80%) were interested in monitoring their menstrual status. The online monitoring yielded high athlete adherence (87.0% [14.2%]) with a slight decrease over the winter break and at the end of the championship, which necessitated adaptations to promote compliance. Monitoring identified the specific menstrual pattern of each athlete and highlighted large interindividual variability. CONCLUSION This study assesses, for the first time, the interest of female players in monitoring their menstrual status. It provides a new methodological approach, as well as guidelines for optimizing on-field monitoring. It also anticipates some obstacles sport staff may encounter when trying to implement such follow-up. It is essential to better understand the menstrual profile of athletes and determine its potential impacts on well-being and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Dupuit
- Laboratory of Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise Under Physiological and Pathological Conditions (AME2P), Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Alice Meignié
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Tom Chassard
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Ludivine Blanquet
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Jean-François Toussaint
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
- CIMS, Hôtel-Dieu, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Martine Duclos
- Sport Medicine and Functional Explorations, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand (CHU), Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Unité de Nutrition Humaine (UNH), Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), INRA, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Juliana Antero
- Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sports (IRMES, EA7329), INSEP, Paris, France
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30
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Mkumbuzi NS, Massey A, Lubega SK, Sorowen B, Chisati EM. FIFA football nurse - A task sharing approach in sports and exercise medicine practice in grassroots women's football in low- and middle- income settings. A study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278428. [PMID: 37733774 PMCID: PMC10513307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Football (soccer) is a very popular team sport among African women and girls, with player numbers continuing to rise at all levels of the sport. Whereas the participation in football and associated injuries are on the rise, there are not enough sports and exercise medicine (SEM) personnel to attend to these women football players. While Africa may not currently have enough SEM trained medical doctors and/or physiotherapists, it has relatively higher numbers of other healthcare workers; for example, nurses, who lead healthcare services provision from community to tertiary levels. The primary objective of this study will be to compare sports medicine practices; injury prevention behaviours; injury risk parameters; incidence and prevalence of injuries and illnesses in teams with and without a Football Nurse during one competitive season in Malawi's Women's football league. This study will be a cluster randomised control trial will recruit 24 teams from the Women's Football League in Malawi, which will be randomised to either the intervention group or the control group. A cohort of 12 nurses will receive training in basic football medicine; after which they will be attached to a total of 12 women's football teams (intervention group) during one competitive season. The Football Nurses will be directly report to a physiotherapist or doctor in their district to whom they will refer serious injuries for investigations, or further management. The teams with Football Nurses will be compared to other teams that will not have Football Nurses. We expect to develop a low cost, sustainable and context relevant solution to manage the treatment gap of football injuries/illnesses in underserved communities such as women's football. Trial registration number: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202205481965514).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nonhlanhla Sharon Mkumbuzi
- Department of Sports, Exercise, and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Department of Rehabilitation, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
- Department of Human Movement Science, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
- NtombiSport (PTY) Ltd. Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | - Ben Sorowen
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Enock Madalitso Chisati
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), Blantyre, Malawi
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Recacha-Ponce P, Collado-Boira E, Suarez-Alcazar P, Montesinos-Ruiz M, Hernando-Domingo C. Is It Necessary to Adapt Training According to the Menstrual Cycle? Influence of Contraception and Physical Fitness Variables. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1764. [PMID: 37629621 PMCID: PMC10455893 DOI: 10.3390/life13081764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The influence of the menstrual cycle on physical fitness in athletes is controversial in the scientific literature. There is a marked fluctuation of sex hormones at three key points of the menstrual cycle, where estrogen and progesterone vary significantly. Hormonal contraception induces hormonal levels different from the natural menstrual cycle, requiring specific study in relation to physical fitness. (2) Method: Women aged 18 to 40 years with regular natural menstrual cycles and women using hormonal contraception were recruited, creating two study groups. All participants needed to be athletes classified as level II-III, based on training volume/physical activity metrics, among other variables. To assess their physical fitness, cardiorespiratory fitness (measured by V˙O2max), high-speed strength, hand grip strength, and flexibility were evaluated. Blood samples were taken to determine the menstrual cycle phase through analysis of sex hormone levels. Additionally, urine tests for ovulation detection were performed for the natural menstrual cycle group. Neurosensory stimulation tests were incorporated to measure sensory thresholds and pain thresholds in each phase. Body composition in each phase and its relationship with the other variables were also taken into account. (3) Results: Athletes in the natural cycling group showed differences in V˙O2max (mL·kg-1·min-1) (phase I = 41.75 vs. phase II = 43.85 and (p = 0.004) and phase I vs. phase III = 43.25 mL·kg-1·min-1 (p = 0.043)), as well as in body weight (phase I = 63.23 vs. phase III = 62.48 kg; p = 0.006), first pain threshold (phase I = 1.34 vs. phase II = 1.69 (p = 0.027) and phase III = 1.59 mA (p = 0.011)), and sensitive threshold (phase I = 0.64 vs. phase II = 0.76 mA (p = 0.017)). The pain threshold was found to be an important covariate in relation to V˙O2max, explaining 31.9% of the variance in phase I (p = 0.006). These findings were not observed between the two phases of contraceptive cycling. (4) Conclusion: The natural menstrual cycle will cause significant changes in the physical fitness of athletes. The use of hormonal contraception is not innocuous. Women with natural cycles show an increase in cardiorespiratory fitness in phases II and III, which is a factor to be considered in relation to training level and workload.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eladio Collado-Boira
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaime I University, 12071 Castello de la Plana, Spain; (P.R.-P.); (P.S.-A.); (M.M.-R.); (C.H.-D.)
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McGawley K, Sargent D, Noordhof D, Badenhorst CE, Julian R, Govus AD. Improving menstrual health literacy in sport. J Sci Med Sport 2023:S1440-2440(23)00143-3. [PMID: 37407335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Menstrual health represents a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in relation to a woman's menstrual cycle. From a health literacy perspective, knowledge acquisition and expertise are dependent upon the degree to which an individual can find, access, understand, critically analyse, and apply health information. Therefore, menstrual health literacy can be used to describe the state of knowledge acquisition and application specific to menstrual health-related issues. Menstrual health literacy is low among female athletes, their coaches, and practitioners, and few evidence-informed education or implementation strategies exist to improve menstrual health literacy in sport. Moreover, athletes seldom discuss their menstrual cycles or hormonal contraceptive use with their coaches, despite experiencing menstrual symptoms and/or disturbances and perceiving their menstrual cycles/hormonal contraceptive use to affect performance. Barriers to communication about menstrual cycle- and hormonal contraceptive-related topics include a perceived lack of knowledge among athletes, coaches, and practitioners, concerns about how conversations on these issues will affect interpersonal relationships, and a lack of formal and informal discussion forums. Whilst evidence relating to the effects of the menstrual cycle phase and hormonal contraceptive use on training and performance is currently limited, with existing studies often lacking methodological rigour, impactful steps can still be made to support female athletes. This cornerstone review highlights the current state of menstrual health literacy among athletes, coaches, and practitioners, and provides recommendations for improving menstrual health literacy in sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- K McGawley
- Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sweden. https://twitter.com/KerryMcGawley
| | - D Sargent
- School of Sport and Exercise, University of Gloucestershire, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/DebbyDls4
| | - D Noordhof
- Centre for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway. https://twitter.com/DionneNoordhof
| | - C E Badenhorst
- School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Massey University, New Zealand. https://twitter.com/claire_bades
| | - R Julian
- School of Sport and Exercise, University of Gloucestershire, United Kingdom; University of Münster, Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Department of Neuromotor Behavior and Exercise, Germany. https://twitter.com/RossJulian88
| | - A D Govus
- Discipline of Sport and Exercise Science, Department of Sport, Exercise, and Nutrition Science, La Trobe University, Australia.
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Brown N, Williams GKR, Stodter A, McNarry MA, Roldan-Reoyo O, Mackintosh KA, Moore IS, Williams EMP. A Global Women's Rugby Union Web-Based Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085475. [PMID: 37107757 PMCID: PMC10138678 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Rugby Union (rugby) is a full-contact team sport characterised by frequent collision events. Over one third (2.7 million) of global rugby participants are women and girls. Yet, most rugby research, laws, and regulations are derived from the men's game with limited transferability to the women's game. This includes research focused on injury and concussion management. Greater insights are urgently required to enable appropriate adaptations and support for all rugby participants. Therefore, this paper presents the protocol for a project that sought to gather insights into the understanding, experiences, and attitudes of players and coaches in women's rugby regarding key issues of concussion, injury, and training for injury prevention, as well as the implications of the menstrual cycle for training and performance. From August 2020 to November 2020, online, open, cross-sectional surveys for players and coaches were distributed globally through rugby governing bodies and women's rugby social media platforms using snowball sampling. Survey responses were recorded anonymously via a GDPR-compliant online survey platform, JISC (jisc.ac.uk, Bristol, England). Participant eligibility included being ≥18 years and either actively playing or coaching women's rugby 15s and/or sevens, or having done so in the past decade, at any level, in any country. To enhance the number and accuracy of responses, the survey was professionally translated into eight additional languages. A total of 1596 participants from 62 countries (27 ± 6 years; 7.5 ± 5.1 years of playing experience) and 296 participants from 37 countries (mean age = 36.64, SD = 9.09, mean experience = 6.53 years, SD = 3.31) completed the players' and coaches' surveys, respectively. Understanding women's participation in and experiences of rugby is important to enable lifelong engagement and enjoyment of the sport and health during and following participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Brown
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Geneviève K. R. Williams
- Department of Public Health & Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK
| | - Anna Stodter
- Research Centre for Sport Coaching, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK
| | - Melitta A. McNarry
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Olga Roldan-Reoyo
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Kelly A. Mackintosh
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Isabel S. Moore
- Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK
| | - Elisabeth M. P. Williams
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
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Rico-Lara T, Mateo-Orcajada A, Abenza-Cano L, Esparza-Ros F, Vaquero-Cristóbal R. Differences in Psychological Variables and the Performance of Female Futsal Players according to Playing Position, Match Result and Menstruation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085429. [PMID: 37107711 PMCID: PMC10138611 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Futsal performance has been extensively investigated in previous studies, demonstrating that the psychological state of the players or the playing position condition performance. However, research with female indoor soccer players is scarce; therefore, menstruation has not been considered as a determinant aspect for performance in females. Previous research has shown the influence of menstruation on the psychological state and performance of players of different sports; however, there is no known research on female futsal players. For this reason, the aims of the present research were to establish the differences in pre-match psychological variables and offensive performance as a function of playing position, match result and menstruation. A total of 132 s division Spanish players participated in the research. All participants completed the Questionnaire of Psychological Needs of the Athlete-15, and their regular league matches were recorded and subsequently analyzed to determine their offensive performance. The results showed differences according to playing position: pivots and closers showed greater motivation than wings, while the pivots showed greater activation and shots on goal than the wings and closers. Regarding match results, pivots demonstrated more shots on goals than closers only when the match was lost. In addition, the motivation and activation of the pivots, as well as the number of shots on goal, were higher than that of the wings and closers only when they were not menstruating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trinidad Rico-Lara
- Facultad de Deporte, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
| | - Adrián Mateo-Orcajada
- Facultad de Deporte, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucía Abenza-Cano
- Facultad de Deporte, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Esparza-Ros
- Cátedra Internacional de Cineantropometría, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
| | - Raquel Vaquero-Cristóbal
- Facultad de Deporte, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
- Cátedra Internacional de Cineantropometría, UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain
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Huschtscha Z, Fyfe JJ, Feros SA, Betik AC, Shaw CS, Main LC, Abbott G, Tan SY, Refalo MC, Gerhardy M, Grunwald E, May A, Silver J, Smith CM, White M, Hamilton DL. A randomised controlled trial assessing the potential of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) to act as an adjuvant to resistance training in healthy adults: a study protocol. Trials 2023; 24:245. [PMID: 37004121 PMCID: PMC10064518 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07199-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics are used frequently by athletes either prophylactically for the prevention of pain, or to accelerate recovery following an injury. However, these types of pain management strategies have been shown to inhibit signalling pathways (e.g., cyclooxygenase-2) that may hinder muscular adaptations such as hypertrophy and strength. Nutraceuticals such as palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) have analgesic properties that act via different mechanisms to NSAIDS/analgesics. Furthermore, PEA has been shown to have a positive effect on sleep and may contribute positively to muscle hypertrophy via PKB activation. Although PEA has not been widely studied in the athletic or recreationally active population, it may provide an alternative solution for pain management if it is found not to interfere with, or enhance training adaptations. Therefore, the study aim is to investigate the effects of daily PEA supplementation (Levagen + ®) with resistance training on lean body mass, strength, power and physical performance and outcomes of recovery (e.g., sleep) compared to placebo. METHODS This double-blind, randomised controlled study will take place over an 11-week period (including 8-weeks of progressive resistance training). Participants for this study will be 18-35 years old, healthy active adults that are not resistance trained. Participants will attend a familiarisation (week 0), pre-testing (week 1) and final-testing (week 11). At the pre-testing and final-testing weeks, total lean body mass (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; DXA), total mid-thigh cross sectional area (pQCT), maximal muscular strength (1 repetition maximum bench press, isometric mid-thigh pull) and power (countermovement jump and bench throw) will be assessed. Additionally, circulating inflammatory cytokines and anabolic hormones, sleep quality and quantity (ActiGraph), pain and subjective wellbeing (questionnaires) will also be examined. DISCUSSION This study is designed to investigate the effects that PEA may have on pre-to post intervention changes in total body and regional lean muscle mass, strength, power, sleep, subjective wellbeing, and pain associated with resistance training and menstruation compared with the placebo condition. Unlike other NSAIDs and analgesics, which may inhibit muscle protein synthesis and training adaptations, PEA which provides analgesia via alternative mechanisms may provide an alternative pain management solution. It is therefore important to determine if this analgesic compound interferes with or enhances training adaptations so that athletes and active individuals can make an informed decision on their pain management strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR: ACTRN12621001726842p).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoya Huschtscha
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Jackson J Fyfe
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Simon A Feros
- Centre for Sport Research (CSR), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Andrew C Betik
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Christopher S Shaw
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Luana C Main
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Sze-Yen Tan
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Martin C Refalo
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Michael Gerhardy
- Centre for Sport Research (CSR), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Emma Grunwald
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Anthony May
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Jessica Silver
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Craig M Smith
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - Matthew White
- Centre for Sport Research (CSR), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia
| | - D Lee Hamilton
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Australia.
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Coventry M, Timler A, Mosler AB, Russell K, Travers M, Mitchell Oam L, Murphy MC. "I lied a little bit." A qualitative study exploring the perspectives of elite Australian athletes on self-reported data. Phys Ther Sport 2023; 60:91-97. [PMID: 36738670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Explore the perceptions and experiences of elite Australian athletes' engagement with reporting data in surveillance systems. DESIGN Qualitative Descriptive. SETTING Semi-structured interviews conducted using Zoom. PARTICIPANTS We recruited 13 elite Australian athletes competing at a national or international level for semi-structured interviews. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Audio recordings were transcribed using DeScript, checked for errors and imported into QSR NVIVO. Thematic analysis using QSR NVIVO was used to determine key themes from transcripts. RESULTS Thematic analysis uncovered four key themes: 'the paradox of reporting', 'data for data's sake', 'eyes on reporting' and 'athlete friendly reporting'. CONCLUSION Athletes perceived reporting as a burden and the athlete management system presented numerous technological difficulties which led to athletes to backfill data entries and compromise data accuracy. Athletes had little knowledge on how their data was used and managed and often received minimal feedback from staff accessing the data. Athletes were unaware of who has access to their data, which is of concern as sensitive information may be collected and athletes may be underage. As a result, many athletes chose to report dishonest data to avoid their performance being questioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Coventry
- School of Health Sciences and Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Amanda Timler
- Institute for Health Research, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrea B Mosler
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kylie Russell
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mervyn Travers
- School of Health Sciences and Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia; School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lauren Mitchell Oam
- Radiology Department, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Myles C Murphy
- School of Health Sciences and Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia; Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia.
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Interaction predictors of self-perception menstrual symptoms and influence of the menstrual cycle on physical performance of physically active women. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:601-607. [PMID: 36371725 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-05086-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the physical performance, self-perception menstrual symptoms, of physically active eumenorrheic women with endogenous ovarian cycle in two phases of the menstrual cycle. METHODS Twenty-six women participated in the study (age 25.8 ± 3.9 years; height 1.64 ± 0.58 m; mass 64 ± 12.32 kg; menarche 11.69 ± 1.28 years). Assessments were performed in two phases of the menstrual cycle (MC), Early-Follicular Phase (FP) and Mid-Luteal Phase (LP), performance was assessed through total time to exhaustion (TTE), complete stages (CE), and final speed (FE), through a graded exercise test (GXT). Information on the participants' menstrual symptoms and their perceptions of the influence of MC on their performance were also collected. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Paired analyses were conducted (t test or Wilcoxon) to examine the responses between the menstrual phases. The interaction analysis of symptom predictors was performed by multiple linear regression, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS There was no significant difference in physical performance between the phases during the GXT in TTE (mean difference 8.50; 95% CI - 11.99 to 42; p = 0.36). During FP, women with heavy flow had shorter performance in the GXT (t = - 2.5; p = 0.01), demonstrating an r2 = 0.32. In LP, for the women who reported not having the perception of the influence of the menstrual cycle on exercise, the total test time was longer (t = 2.55; p = 0.01), with an r2 = 0.45. CONCLUSION There was no difference in physical performance between FP and LP. However, menstrual flow intensity and perception of cycle interference demonstrated a decrease in TTE.
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Antero J, Golovkine S, Niffoi L, Meignié A, Chassard T, Delarochelambert Q, Duclos M, Maitre C, Maciejewski H, Diry A, Toussaint JF. Menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptive phases' effect on elite rowers' training, performance and wellness. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1110526. [PMID: 36875020 PMCID: PMC9981658 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1110526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the effect of menstrual cycle (MC) and hormonal contraception (HC) phases in elite rowers training, performance and wellness monitoring. Methods: Twelve French elite rowers were follow-up for 4,2 cycles on average in their final preparation for the Olympics and Paralympics Games in Tokyo 2021 through an on-site longitudinal study based on repeated measures. Daily self-reported evaluation using Likert rating scales of wellness (sleep quality, fitness, mood, injuries' pain), menstrual symptoms and training parameters (perceived exertion and self-assessment of performance) were collected (n = 1,281) in parallel to a coach evaluation of rowers' performance (n = 136), blinded to theirs MC and HC phases. Salivary samples of estradiol and progesterone were collected in each cycle to help to classify the MC into 6 phases and HC into 2-3 phases depending on the pills' hormone concentration. A chi-square test normalized by each rower was used to compare the upper quintile scores of each studied variable across phases. A Bayesian ordinal logistic regression was applied to model the rowers' self-reported performance. Results: Rowers with a natural cycle, n = 6 ( + 1 amenorrhea) evaluate their performance and wellness with significant higher score indices at the middle of their cycle. Top assessments are rarer at the premenstrual and menses phases, when they more frequently experience menstrual symptoms which are negatively correlated with their performance. The HC rowers, n = 5, also better evaluate their performance when taking the pills and more frequently experience menstrual symptoms during the pill withdrawal. The athletes self-reported performance is correlated with their coach's evaluation. Conclusion: It seems important to integrate MC and HC data in the wellness and training monitoring of female athletes since these parameters vary across hormonal phases affecting training perception of both athlete and coach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Antero
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Steven Golovkine
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Louis Niffoi
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Alice Meignié
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Tom Chassard
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Quentin Delarochelambert
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | - Martine Duclos
- Department of Sport Medicine and Functional Exploration, University Hospital CHU G. Montpied, INRAE, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Carole Maitre
- Medical Department at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
| | | | - Allison Diry
- French Rowing Federation, Nogent-sur-Marne, France
| | - Jean-François Toussaint
- Institute for Research in BioMedicine and Epidemiology of Sport, IRMES at INSEP (Institut National du Sport, de l’Expertise et de la Performance), Paris, France
- URP 7329, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Center for Investigation in Sport Medicine, CIMS Hôtel-Dieu, Assistance Publique—Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, France
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Di Luigi L, Greco EA, Fossati C, Aversa A, Sgrò P, Antinozzi C. Clinical Concerns on Sex Steroids Variability in Cisgender and Transgender Women Athletes. Int J Sports Med 2023; 44:81-94. [PMID: 36174581 DOI: 10.1055/a-1909-1196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
In the female athletic community, there are several endogenous and exogenous variables that influence the status of the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis and serum sex steroid hormones concentrations (e. g., 17β-estradiol, progesterone, androgens) and their effects. Moreover, female athletes with different sex chromosome abnormalities exist (e. g., 46XX, 46XY, and mosaicism). Due to the high variability of sex steroid hormones serum concentrations and responsiveness, female athletes may have different intra- and inter-individual biological and functional characteristics, health conditions, and sports-related health risks that can influence sports performance and eligibility. Consequently, biological, functional, and/or sex steroid differences may exist in the same and in between 46XX female athletes (e. g., ovarian rhythms, treated or untreated hypogonadism and hyperandrogenism), between 46XX and 46XY female athletes (e. g., treated or untreated hyperandrogenism/disorders of sexual differentiation), and between transgender women and eugonadal cisgender athletes. From a healthcare perspective, dedicated physicians need awareness, knowledge, and an understanding of sex steroid hormones' variability and related health concerns in female athletes to support physiologically healthy, safe, fair, and inclusive sports participation. In this narrative overview, we focus on the main clinical relationships between hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis function, endogenous sex steroids and health status, health risks, and sports performance in the heterogeneous female athletic community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Di Luigi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela A Greco
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy.,Department of Science of Movement, Università degli Studi Niccolò Cusano, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Fossati
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Paolo Sgrò
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Antinozzi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
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James JJ, Leach OK, Young AM, Newman AN, Mpongo KL, Quirante JM, Wardell DB, Ahmadi M, Gifford JR. The exercise power-duration relationship is equally reproducible in eumenorrheic female and male humans. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:230-241. [PMID: 36548510 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00416.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effect of the menstrual cycle (MC) on exercise performance across the power-duration relationship (PDR). We hypothesized females would exhibit greater variability in the PDR across the MC than males across a similar timespan, with critical power (CP) and work-prime (W') being lower during the early follicular phase than the late follicular and midluteal phases. Seven eumenorrheic, endurance-trained female adults performed multiple constant-load-to-task-failure and maximum-power tests at three timepoints across the MC (early follicular, late follicular, and midluteal phases). Ten endurance-trained male adults performed the same tests approximately 10 days apart. No differences across the PDR were observed between MC phases (CP: 186.74 ± 31.00 W, P = 0.955, CV = 0.81 ± 0.65%) (W': 7,961.81 ± 2,537.68 J, P = 0.476, CV = 10.48 ± 3.06%). CP was similar for male and female subjects (11.82 ± 1.42 W·kg-1 vs. 11.56 ± 1.51 W·kg-1, respectively) when controlling for leg lean mass. However, W' was larger (P = 0.047) for male subjects (617.28 ± 130.10 J·kg-1) than female subjects (490.03 ± 136.70 J·kg-1) when controlling for leg lean mass. MC phase does not need to be controlled when conducting aerobic endurance performance research on eumenorrheic female subjects without menstrual dysfunction. Nevertheless, several sex differences in the power-duration relationship exist, even after normalizing for body composition. Therefore, previous studies describing the physiology of exercise performance in male subjects may not perfectly describe that of female subjects.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Females are often excluded from exercise performance research due to experimental challenges in controlling for the menstrual cycle (MC), causing uncertainty regarding how the MC impacts female performance. The present study examined the influences that biological sex and the MC have on the power-duration relationship (PDR) by comparing critical power (CP), Work-prime (W'), and maximum power output (PMAX) in males and females. Our data provide evidence that the MC does not influence the PDR and that females exhibit similar reproducibility as males. Thus, when conducting aerobic endurance exercise research on eumenorrheic females without menstrual dysfunction, the phase of the MC does not need to be controlled. Although differences in body composition account for some differences between the sexes, sex differences in W' and PMAX persisted even after normalizing for different metrics of body composition. These data highlight the necessity and feasibility of examining sex differences in performance, as previously generated male-only data within the literature may not apply to female subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J James
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Olivia K Leach
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Arianna M Young
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Audrey N Newman
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Kiese L Mpongo
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jaron M Quirante
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Devon B Wardell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Mohadeseh Ahmadi
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Jayson R Gifford
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.,Program of Gerontology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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Mkumbuzi NS, Dlamini SB, Chibhabha F, Govere FM. Injury, illness, and medication use surveillance during the 2020 COSAFA Women's championship: a prospective cohort study of football players from Southern Africa. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2023; 7:74-80. [PMID: 36815605 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2021.1971745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systematic analyses of injuries, illnesses or medication use and their risk factors among female African athletes are scarce, which has implications for management of these athletes. AIM This prospective cohort study analysed the incidence and characteristics of injuries, illnesses and medication use during the 2020 COSAFA Women's Championship. METHODS The medical personnel of all participating teams reported all new injuries, illnesses and medication used by players daily. RESULTS Sixty-three injuries were reported: 45 match and 18 training injuries; 45.5 (95% CI: 32.2 to 58.8) injuries/1000 match-hours and 21.7 (95% CI: 11.7 to 31.7) injuries/1000 training-hours, respectively. Most (n = 55, 87%) were caused by contact with another player and involved the lower extremity (n = 43; 68%). Fifty-eight illnesses were reported: 44.4 (95% CI: 33.0 to 58.8) illnesses/1000 player-days, mostly diarrhoea (n = 25; 43.1%) and dysmenorrhoea (n = 18; 31%). No cases of COVID-19 were reported. In total, 175 medications were prescribed: 168.8 (95% CI: 143.8 to 193.8) medications/1000 player-days. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (n = 60; 34.3%) and analgesics (n = 33; 18.9%) were the most commonly prescribed drugs. CONCLUSION Incidences of injury and illnesses were high but time loss was low, likely due to high NSAIDs use. Further studies should be conducted in order to inform appropriate prevention or management protocols in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nonhlanhla S Mkumbuzi
- Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle, and Sports Research Centre(HPALS). Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa.,African Evaluation and Research Development, Johannesburg
| | - Senanile B Dlamini
- Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle, and Sports Research Centre(HPALS). Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Fidelis Chibhabha
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
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Impact of Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms on Sport Routines in Nonelite Athlete Participants of Summer Olympic Sports. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:142-147. [PMID: 36577421 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Most women during their lifetime experience a combination of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms (eg, menstrual cramps) before and often to the end of menstruation. However, the impact of these symptoms on sport routines (eg, performance, training absence) during phases around menstruation is still unclear. Therefore, we investigated the impact of PMS symptoms on sport routines among nonelite athletes over 3 phases related to menstruation. METHODS An online questionnaire was developed to recruit nonelite female athletes who participate in summer Olympic sports. Participants were allocated into 2 groups: those who experienced mild to moderate PMS symptoms (no-PMS) and those with severe PMS symptoms (p-PMS). Two hundred thirty-four responses from eumenorrheic women (p-PMS = 78%) were considered valid. An unpaired Student t test was conducted to compare demographic characteristics between groups and chi-square test to evaluate the impact of PMS status on sport routines between groups. RESULTS A significant (P < .05) proportion of women in the p-PMS group changed their training schedule because of menstrual (55%) and premenstrual (61%) symptoms compared with the no-PMS group. Overall, all participants indicated that training (P = .01) and competitive (P < .01) performance are impacted during menstruation, followed by a greater impact (P < .05) in the p-PMS group before menstruation. CONCLUSION The presence of PMS symptoms reduces training and competitive performance, primarily during and before menstruation, respectively. Severity of PMS symptoms was significantly associated with alterations in training schedule but not with competitive schedule.
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Duggan JD, Keane K, Moody J, Byrne PJ, Malone S, Collins K, Ryan L. Strength and Conditioning Recommendations for Female Athletes: The Gaelic Footballer. Strength Cond J 2023. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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The Effects of Connective Tissue Manipulation in Primary Dysmenorrhea: a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:181-191. [PMID: 35556238 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00964-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the effects of connective tissue manipulation (CTM) in primary dysmenorrhea (PD) in a randomized, placebo-controlled design. Thirty-eight nulliparous women with PD were randomly allocated into 3 groups: CTM (n = 13), placebo therapeutic ultrasound (US) (n = 13), and control (n = 12). The primary outcome measure was the maximum and mean menstrual pain intensity at the last menstrual period on the visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary outcome measures were menstrual symptom frequency and distress score, the number of analgesic/anti-inflammatory drugs used during the last menstrual period, and perception of improvement in dysmenorrhea severity via interventions. The chi-square test and analysis of variance were used to determine within-group and between-group differences. Statistical significance level was determined as p < 0.05. Compared with the placebo US and control groups, it was observed that menstrual pain (VAS mean and VAS maximum), menstrual symptom frequency, and distress level decreased more after treatment (T2) and the 3-month follow-up (T3) in de CTM group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.014, p = 0.015, respectively). There was no difference between the groups in terms of analgesic/anti-inflammatory drugs use (p > 0.05). The rate of individuals reporting perceived improvement at the end of intervention period was higher in the CTM group than in the placebo-US and control groups (p < 0.001). In the 3rd month follow-up, there was no difference between groups in the perception of improvement (p > 0.05). CTM is superior to placebo intervention and control in improving menstrual pain and other menstrual symptoms in PD in the short-term. On the other hand, when the application is terminated, this superiority seems to disappear during the follow-up period.
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Bergström M, Rosvold M, Sæther SA. "I hardly have a problem […] I have my period quite rarely too": Female football players' and their coaches' perceptions of barriers to communication on menstrual cycle. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1127207. [PMID: 37033882 PMCID: PMC10076858 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1127207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Symptoms related to the menstrual cycle (MC) affect the performance level and health of female athletes in various ways. Previous research has reported MC symptoms such as pain, mood disturbance, reduced coordination and competition distraction as well as diminished performance levels and an increased injury risk among female elite athletes. Despite this, the coach-athlete communication related to the female hormonal cycle is limited. The aim of the present study was to explore the perceptions of MC communication in a group of junior elite football players and their male coaches in a case study of one youth football team in a specific club in Norway. Methods The study used a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews. In total, 8 female junior elite players (aged 16-20) from a Norwegian football team and 2 of their male coaches participated in the study. Results The data analysis revealed two main communication barriers: 1. interpersonal barriers (e.g., false assumptions about the coach/athletes and social discomfort) and 2. knowledge barriers (e.g., unaware/perceptions of insufficient knowledge levels). Discussion As the players seemed to be unaware of their insufficient MC knowledge (e.g., failed to see a connection between the MC and their health and performance level), the coaches perceived their knowledge as insufficient and coped mainly by outsourcing MC communication to female staff and apps. Hence, the MC communication was hindered by both the athletes and the coaches (e.g., mutual avoidance). In line with previous research, this study supports that there is a need for developing effective strategies to overcome the interpersonal barriers and knowledge gaps.
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Ten questions in sports engineering: technology in elite women’s football. SPORTS ENGINEERING 2022. [PMCID: PMC9667860 DOI: 10.1007/s12283-022-00384-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of technology in football is increasing, although, products predominantly focus on men’s football in performance, safety, comfort, and fit considerations. A recent scoping review identified just 32 published scientific articles on technology in women’s football, despite demands of those playing/working in the women’s game increasing. We wish to highlight the progressions made so far and barriers remaining in the elite women’s football technology to shed a light on this topic and prod researchers and manufacturers to help support the evolution of women’s-football-focussed technological considerations. The ten questions presented in this paper address the generic question on whether women’s specific tailoring is needed (Question 1) as well as addressing specific questions on football technology and engineering, such as the progressions made and ongoing issues in the following areas: football kits, religious considerations (hijab designs), sports bras, football boots, balls, football pitches, performance tracking devices, menstrual cycle tracking devices (Question 2–10). It is evidence that certain areas have received more attention than others and with these ten questions we hope to steer readers towards research and engineering gaps for future work.
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Mkumbuzi NS, Dlamini SB, Chibhabha F, Govere FM, Manda-Taylor L. The menstrual cycle and football: The experiences of African women football players. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2022; 6:626-632. [PMID: 36540914 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2021.2005252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The menstrual cycle is a normal biological process in women and girls. However, it is often the reason why they tend to be excluded from football medicine research. Consequently, our understanding of the menstrual cycle and football performance is still limited, especially in African women football players. AIM The study aimed to explore African women football players' current and historical menstrual cycle status, menstrual symptoms, lived experiences, and perceptions of the menstrual cycle. METHODS Women football players at the COSAFA Women's Championship 2020 completed demographic questionnaires and the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire. RESULTS The main findings were that 90% of the players did not use contraceptives, . Most of the players had access to their preferred choice of sanitary product; however, 36% used alternatives such as old rags during their periods, . The most commonly reported symptoms during menses were abdominal cramps (53%), headache (41%), mood swings (41%) and irritability (47%). Further, players reported irritability (48%), mood swings (52%), and breast tenderness (48%) in the week before their period. CONCLUSION The low use of contraceptives is likely due to community level socio-cultural factors. While the use of old rags as impromptu sanitary products is likely because they cannot always afford their preferred choice. Menstrual symptoms can affect training and competition; therefore, team support personnel should be aware of the menstrual cycle's implications for African women football players and their effect on athletic performance and well-being. Additionally, team support personnel ought to be mindful of African women football players' socio-economic and religio-cultural contexts and their interaction with biological processes such as the menstrual cycle and contraceptive use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nonhlanhla S Mkumbuzi
- Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre (HPALS). Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,African Evaluation and Research Development, Johannesburg
| | - Senanile B Dlamini
- Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre (HPALS). Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Fidelis Chibhabha
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Lucinda Manda-Taylor
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
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McHaffie SJ, Langan-Evans C, Morehen JC, Strauss JA, Areta JL, Rosimus C, Evans M, Elliott-Sale KJ, Cronin CJ, Morton JP. Normalising the conversation: a qualitative analysis of player and stakeholder perceptions of menstrual health support within elite female soccer. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2022; 6:633-642. [PMID: 36344447 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2022.2145349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This qualitative study explores player and stakeholder perceptions of menstrual health support in elite female soccer. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 47 participants including players (n = 12), parents (n = 9), coaches (n = 9), sport scientists (n = 7), nutritionists (n = 5) and medical staff (n = 5). RESULTS Via thematic analysis, data demonstrate that elite female soccer players experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms primarily at the onset of and during menses (as also perceived by stakeholders), with most participants perceiving these symptoms to impact performance. Nonetheless, menstrual health support is perceived as minimal and although players have their menstrual status tracked, they report little understanding as to why or how this information is used. This confusion was also present among stakeholders, often as a result of uncertainty about the evidence supporting the need for menstrual health support. The perceived lack of support may also be reflective of a culture where conversations about the menstrual cycle are not normalised. Overall, this may result in failure to identify and treat menstrual irregularities despite non-coaching staff members perceiving them to be common amongst players. CONCLUSION These data support the need for individualised support based on the lived experiences of individual players and support staff. Furthermore, our research identifies the need for organisational, stakeholder, and player centred education programmes (led by experts in female athlete health) that create an environment where players receive personalised menstrual health support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J McHaffie
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Carl Langan-Evans
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - James C Morehen
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Juliette A Strauss
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - José L Areta
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | - Colum J Cronin
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - James P Morton
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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Righi I, Barroso R. Do Recreationally-Trained Women of Different Ages Perceive Symptoms of the Menstrual Cycle and Adjust Their Training According to Phases? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192113841. [PMID: 36360721 PMCID: PMC9657339 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the effects of the menstrual cycle (MC) in recreationally trained women athletes, including their perception of training, if age affected their perception of MC symptoms, and if they adjusted their training according to phases of the MC which they would perceive as the best/worst phase to train in. Three hundred- and ten-women amateur athletes with regular MC replied to an online quiz about their perception and the effects of MC on training and how they adjusted training according to their MC. Women were classified into three age groups: 18-25 years-old (n = 108), 26-35 years-old (n = 135), and 36-45 years-old (n = 67). Despite a higher ratio of younger perceived symptoms and the influence of MC phases in training, the group varied their training according to MC phases the least (37%) compared to 26-35 (50%) and 36-45-year-olds (40.2%). Most of athletes perceived the late follicular phase (LF) as the best phase to train in (18-25 = 79.6%; 26-35 = 80.7%; 36-45 = 91%) and the worst phases were early follicular (EF) (54.6%; 58% and 46.2%), and late luteal (LL) (38%; 48% and 47.7%). Regardless of age, most women perceived MC symptoms, and women in the 26-35 group adjusted their training more according to MC phases.
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Bruinvels G, Blagrove RC, Goldsmith E, Shaw L, Martin D, Piasecki J. How Lifestyle Changes during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic Affected the Pattern and Symptoms of the Menstrual Cycle. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13622. [PMID: 36294200 PMCID: PMC9602509 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This research investigated the implications that the COVID-19 pandemic had on the menstrual cycle and any contributing factors to these changes. A questionnaire was completed by 559 eumenorrheic participants, capturing detail on menstrual cycle symptoms and characteristics prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown period. Over half of all participants reported to have experienced lack of motivation (61.5%), focus (54.7%) and concentration (57.8%). 52.8% of participants reported an increase in cycle length. Specifically, there was an increase in the median cycle length reported of 5 days (minimum 2 days, maximum 32 days), with a median decrease of 3 days (minimum 2 days and maximum 17 days). A lack of focus was significantly associated with a change in menstrual cycle length (p = 0.038) reported to have increased by 61% of participants. Changes to eating patterns of white meat (increase p = 0.035, decrease p = 0.003) and processed meat (increase p = 0.002 and decrease p = 0.001) were significantly associated with a change in menstrual cycle length. It is important that females and practitioners become aware of implications of environmental stressors and the possible long-term effects on fertility. Future research should continue to investigate any long-lasting changes in symptoms, as well as providing education and support for females undergoing any life stressors that may implicate their menstrual cycle and/or symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgie Bruinvels
- Orreco, Ltd., London TW1 3DY, UK
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Richard C. Blagrove
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | | | - Laurence Shaw
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Daniel Martin
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7GA, UK
| | - Jessica Piasecki
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
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