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Griffith K, O’Brien K, McGurty S, Miller P, Christino MA. The Efficacy of a Mental Skills Training Course for Collegiate Athletes. J Athl Train 2024; 59:772-778. [PMID: 38014800 PMCID: PMC11277272 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0533.22] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Psychological skills training improves performance in athletes. However, authors of few studies have looked at the efficacy and satisfaction of mental skills training programs for collegiate athletes. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the satisfaction of collegiate athletes with a 6-session mental skills course and to assess changes in mental toughness and coping skills before and after the course. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Division I collegiate athletic teams. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Fifty-four Division I female athletes (mean age = 19.8 years) participated in the program, and 42 (77.7%) completed precourse assessments, which subsequent evaluations were matched to. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The Athletic Coping Skills Inventory (ACSI; range, 0-84) and Mental Toughness Index (MTI; range, 8-56) assessed coping skills and mental toughness precourse, immediately postcourse, and 4 months postcourse. Satisfaction was assessed on a 10-point scale. RESULTS For participants with paired precourse and immediately postcourse data (n = 37, 68.5%), MTI scores improved by a mean 2.6 points (95% CI = 1.1, 4.1; P = .001), and ACSI scores improved by a mean 4.0 points (95% CI = 0.6, 7.4; P = .02). At the 4-month follow-up (n = 25, 46.2%), no change was detected from precourse in mean MTI score (P = .72), but a significant increase of 3.4 points in mean ACSI (95% CI = 0.4, 6.4; P = .03) occurred. Overall satisfaction had a median score of 9/10 (interquartile range, 8-10) at postcourse, and 18 participants (48.6%) shared positive free-text comments regarding course delivery, content, and impact. No negative feedback was reported. CONCLUSIONS Mental toughness and coping skills scores significantly improved at postcourse assessment, with coping skills scores maintaining their effect at 4 months. The improvements identified spark the question of the potential impact of mental skills training programs when studied in larger athlete populations or over more sustained periods of time. Athletes reported being highly satisfied with course content and reported overall positive experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Griffith
- Boston Children’s Hospital/The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Norwood, MA
| | - Kimberly O’Brien
- Boston Children’s Hospital, MA. Dr O’Brien is now at Unlimited Resilience, LLC, Walpole, MA
| | - Shannon McGurty
- Boston Children’s Hospital, MA. Dr O’Brien is now at Unlimited Resilience, LLC, Walpole, MA
| | - Patricia Miller
- Boston Children’s Hospital, MA. Dr O’Brien is now at Unlimited Resilience, LLC, Walpole, MA
| | - Melissa A. Christino
- Boston Children’s Hospital, MA. Dr O’Brien is now at Unlimited Resilience, LLC, Walpole, MA
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Stambulova N, Wylleman P, Torregrossa M, Erpič SC, Vitali F, de Brandt K, Khomutova A, Ruffault A, Ramis Y. FEPSAC Position Statement: Athletes' dual careers in the European context. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2024; 71:102572. [PMID: 38030052 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102572] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this FEPSAC Position Statement is to summarize current knowledge about athletes' dual careers (DCs) in the European context and propose recommendations for future DC research, practice, and policy. Inspired by the European Union's Guidelines on Dual Careers of Athletes (European Commission, 2012), researchers, practitioners, and policy makers collaborated over the last decade to create the European DC discourse as a context-informed and negotiated body of DC knowledge. In this paper, we proceed from analyzing this body of knowledge using recent review papers and European DC psychological research projects to formulating seven postulates summarizing DC research findings on factors influencing athletes in their striving for DC excellence. These factors include (1) context, (2) pathways and transitions, (3) challenges, (4) resources and coping, (5) support and empowerment, (6) student-athletes' mental health, and (7) DC development environments. In the final section, we acknowledge the contributions of European DC discourse in serving athletes in their pursuit of DC excellence and European DC culture. We also provide a critical discussion on DC knowledge gaps and, on behalf of FEPSAC, offer recommendations for DC research, practice, and policy in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Wylleman
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Miquel Torregrossa
- Sport Research Institute (IRE), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Francesca Vitali
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Koen de Brandt
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Anastasiya Khomutova
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom; Managing Council, European Federation of Sport Psychology (FEPSAC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexis Ruffault
- "Sport, Expertise, and Performance" Laboratory (EA 7370), French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Paris, France; Managing Council, European Federation of Sport Psychology (FEPSAC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yago Ramis
- Sport Research Institute (IRE), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Managing Council, European Federation of Sport Psychology (FEPSAC), Brussels, Belgium
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Giuriato M, Carnevale Pellino V, Cavallo C, Farronato L, Pirazzi A, Beghetto A, Gross F, Del Bianco M, Gatti A, Vandoni M, Lovecchio N. Physical fitness trend after COVID-19 restrictions in Italian school-aged children: a cross-sectional study. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:995-1002. [PMID: 37259495 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.23.14943-7] [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: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical fitness (PF) is a marker of health in children. Muscular strength and speed-agility PF components play a crucial role in musculoskeletal development and bone health. The outbreaks of COVID-19 pandemic changed the daily and sports activities in younger increasing sedentary habits with a detrimental effect on PF. We aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on PF in Italian school-aged children. METHODS We recruited 286 elementary school children, and they were tested through an internationally validated battery test, which evaluate muscular strength and speed-agility (as a multifactorial performance) prior (2018) and after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic (2021). RESULTS Our results showed a reduction in the lower limb strength (SBJ in boys mean difference (MD) -0.42 m; SBJ in girls MD=-0.20 m; P<0.05) and in the speed-agility ability (10x5 m in boys MD=14.1 s; 10x5 m in girls MD=11.2 s; P<0.05), while the upper limb strength remained steady before and after the restrictions. Specifically, for boys of all ages there was a reduction in lower limb strength and in speed-agility but not in upper limb strength. For girls of all ages there was not a recurrent trend, while for 6-8 girls there was a reduction only speed-agility, for 9-11 girls there was a reduction in lower limb and speed-agility. CONCLUSIONS Our results could be useful to help teachers and sport specialists to evaluate and improve strength and speed-agility in children. We encourage trainers and sport specialists to implement programs to help children to become more active and healthier during their lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giuriato
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vittoria Carnevale Pellino
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Cavallo
- LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
| | | | - Agnese Pirazzi
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonella Beghetto
- Swimming Center Rosà, Rosà, Vicenza, Italy
- Nuotopuntocom SRL, Vimercate, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | | | - Marco Del Bianco
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Nuotopuntocom SRL, Vimercate, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gatti
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Vandoni
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Nicola Lovecchio
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy -
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Ussorowska-Krokosz A, Blecharz J, Siekanska M, Grygorowicz M. Coping with COVID-19: Can a Sense of Coherence and Social Support Play a Protective Role in the Perception of COVID-19 by Polish Women Football Players? A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6308. [PMID: 37444155 PMCID: PMC10341721 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136308] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Athletes have demonstrated a significant increase in anxiety and stress connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on the theory of salutogenesis, this study examined the relationship between the sense of coherence and social support and competitive elite-level athletes' perception of the COVID-19 pandemic situation. MATERIALS AND METHODS The perceived secondary gains associated with the pandemic were analysed with a quasi-qualitative research methodology. The sample consisted of 204 competitive elite-level female football players aged 14-36 (M = 17.61, SD = 4.42) who completed the Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (SOC-29), the Berlin Social Support Scales (BSSS), and the researchers' own questionnaire to assess the perception of the COVID-19 situation. RESULTS The results confirmed a relationship between a sense of coherence and coping better with the difficult situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic. No protective role of social support in the adaptive perception of the pandemic situation was identified. CONCLUSIONS The data from the quasi-qualitative study testify to the use of the adversity of the pandemic to grow in many areas of female football players' lives. The sense of coherence was a protective factor in mitigating the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ussorowska-Krokosz
- Women’s Football Science Research Group, Department of Women’s Football, Polish Football Association, 02-366 Warsaw, Poland
- Center for Mental Health in Sport, 81-342 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Jan Blecharz
- Department of Psychology, University of Physical Education in Krakow, 31-571 Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Siekanska
- Department of Psychology, University of Physical Education in Krakow, 31-571 Krakow, Poland
| | - Monika Grygorowicz
- Women’s Football Science Research Group, Department of Women’s Football, Polish Football Association, 02-366 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Physiotherapy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznan, Poland
- Rehasport Clinic FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, 60-201 Poznan, Poland
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Shukla A, Dogra DK, Bhattacharya D, Gulia S, Sharma R. Impact of COVID-19 outbreak on the mental health in sports: a review. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2023:1-15. [PMID: 37360974 PMCID: PMC10116474 DOI: 10.1007/s11332-023-01063-x] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Global pandemic, lockdown restrictions, and COVID-19 compulsory social isolation guidelines have raised unprecedented mental health in the sports community. The COVID-19 pandemic is found to affect the mental health of the population. In critical situations, health authorities and sports communities must identify their priorities and make plans to maintain athletes' health and athletic activities. Several aspects play an important role in prioritization and strategic planning, e.g., physical and mental health, distribution of resources, and short to long-term environmental considerations. To identify the psychological health of sportspeople and athletes due to the outbreak of COVID-19 has been reviewed in this research. This review article also analyzes the impact of COVID-19 on health mental in databases. The COVID-19 outbreak and quarantine would have a serious negative impact on the mental health of athletes. From the accessible sources, 80 research articles were selected and examined for this purpose such as Research Gate, PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer, Scopus, and Web of Science and based on the involvement for this study 14 research articles were accessed. This research has an intention on mental health issues in athletes due to the Pandemic. This report outlines the mental, emotional and behavioural consequences of COVID-19 home confinement. Further, research literature reported that due to the lack of required training, physical activity, practice sessions, and collaboration with teammates and coaching staff are the prime causes of mental health issues in athletes. The discussions also reviewed several pieces of literature which examined the impacts on sports and athletes, impacts on various countries, fundamental issues of mental health and the diagnosis for the sports person and athletes, and the afterlife of the COVID-19 pandemic for them. Because of the compulsory restrictions and guidelines of this COVID-19 eruption, the athletes of different sports and geographical regions are suffering from fewer psychological issues which were identified in this paper. Accordingly, the COVID-19 pandemic appears to negatively affect the mental health of the athletes with the prevalence and levels of anxiety and stress increasing, and depression symptoms remaining unaltered. Addressing and mitigating the negative effect of COVID-19 on the mental health of this population identified from this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Shukla
- Department of Physical Education, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP India
| | - Deepak Kumar Dogra
- Department of Physical Education, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP India
| | - Debraj Bhattacharya
- Department of Physical Education, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP India
| | - Satish Gulia
- Department of Physical Education, Janta Degree College, Patla, Ghaziabad, UP India
| | - Rekha Sharma
- Department of Physical Education, Hindu Girls College, MDU, Sonipat, Haryana India
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Wen P, Tan F, Wu M, Cai Q, Xu R, Zhang X, Wang Y, Li S, Lei M, Chen H, Khan MSA, Zou Q, Hu X. Proper use of light environments for mitigating the effects of COVID-19 and other prospective public health emergency lockdowns on sleep quality and fatigue in adolescents. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14627. [PMID: 37064435 PMCID: PMC10027303 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14627] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains a public health emergency of international concern, and some countries still implement strict regional lockdowns. Further, the upcoming 2023 Asian Games and World University Games will implement a closed-loop management system. Quarantine can harm mental and physical health, to which adolescents are more vulnerable compared with adults. Previous studies indicated that light can affect our psychology and physiology, and adolescents were exposed to the artificial light environment in the evening during the lockdown. Thus, this study aimed to establish and assess appropriate residential light environments to mitigate the effects of lockdowns on sleep quality and fatigue in adolescents. The participants were 66 adolescents (12.15 ± 2.45 years of age) in a closed-loop management environment, who participated in a 28-day (7-day baseline, 21-day light intervention) randomized controlled trial of a light-emitting diode (LED) light intervention. The adolescents were exposed to different correlated color temperature (CCT) LED light environments (2000 K or 8000 K) for 1 h each evening. The results for self-reported daily sleep quality indicated that the low CCT LED light environment significantly improved sleep quality (p < 0.05), and the blood test results for serum urea and hemoglobin indicated that this environment also significantly reduced fatigue (p < 0.05) and moderately increased performance, compared to the high CCT LED light environment. These findings can serve as a springboard for further research that aims to develop interventions to reduce the effects of public health emergency lockdowns on mental and physical health in adolescents, and provide a reference for participants in the upcoming Asian Games and World University Games.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peijun Wen
- School of Physical Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Fuyun Tan
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Guangzhou Institute of Sport Science, Guangzhou, 510620, China
| | - Qijun Cai
- Guangzhou Institute of Sport Science, Guangzhou, 510620, China
| | - Ruiping Xu
- Guangzhou Institute of Sport Science, Guangzhou, 510620, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhang
- Guangzhou Institute of Sport Science, Guangzhou, 510620, China
| | - Yongzhi Wang
- Dongguan Institute of Optoelectronics, Peking University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Shukun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Menglai Lei
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Huanqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Muhammad Saddique Akbar Khan
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qihong Zou
- Center for MRI Research, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xiaodong Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructure and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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Adams J, Wymer E, Rao PSS. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cross-country runners: changes in training, sleep, diet, and mental health. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-11. [PMID: 36595576 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2153602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the changes in training, sleep, diet, and mental health of cross-country runners. Participants: Cross-country runners from NCAA Division II institutes. Methods: Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed to analyze survey responses to ordinal questions on the survey while Spearman's rank correlation analysis (ρ) was used to calculate correlation between after the start of pandemic questions. Data was marked significant at p < 0.05. Results: Analysis of the survey responses revealed that cross-country runners were more likely to experience feelings of depression (p < 0.001), lack of motivation (p < 0.001), and higher daily stress (p < 0.001) after the start of the pandemic. After the start of the pandemic, runners running less days per week were more likely to report an increased feeling of depression (ρ=-0.315, p = 0.008) and lack of motivation (ρ=-0.458, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The present study underscores the importance of training, sleep, diet, and mental health amongst cross-country runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Adams
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
| | - Eric Wymer
- Athletics Department, The University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
| | - P S S Rao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
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Jordana A, Ramis Y, Chamorro JL, Pons J, Borrueco M, De Brandt K, Torregrossa M. Ready for Failure? Irrational Beliefs, Perfectionism and Mental Health in Male Soccer Academy Players. JOURNAL OF RATIONAL-EMOTIVE AND COGNITIVE-BEHAVIOR THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10942-022-00491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSince Junior-to-Senior Transition (JST) is only considered successful when soccer players become professionals, many junior athletes must cope with failure, and their sporting careers and mental health may be at risk. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to (a) identify different career expectancies of male soccer academy players, and (b) describe irrational beliefs, perfectionism and mental health levels associated with different career expectancies, identifying risk factors in the JST. A total of 515 male soccer players between 14 and 19 years old (M = 16.7; SD = 1.6) who played in Spanish professional youth academies during the 2020–2021 season, answered questionnaires on sports career model, beliefs, perfectionism and mental health (i.e., iPBI, MPS-2 and GHQ-12). The results suggest that the number of juniors who aspire to be professionals (57%) far exceeds the number of players who become professionals (10%; Dugdale in Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports 31:73–84, 2021). Also, results show that this population presents high levels of demandingness (M = 5.5), low frustration tolerance (M = 5.2), self-organization (M = 5.2) and social functioning (M = 5.5), and low scores on depreciation (M = 2.6) and loss of confidence and self-esteem (M = 2.4). In a more detailed way, the results are compared according to expectancies. These academies are usually environments where success and failure are antagonistic concepts, and where perfectionism and irrational beliefs are normalized and integrated among all members of this context. However, the possible maladaptive effects put their mental health at risk. With the aim of rationalizing the concepts of success and failure and protecting their mental health, especially those who will not become professionals, this study proposes a new route based on the REBT philosophy and ARRC technique.
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Salles JI, Silva C, Wolff A, Orwert L, Ribeiro P, Velasques B, Morrissey D. Anxiety, insomnia, and depression during COVID-19 lockdown in elite individual and team sport athletes. PSICOLOGIA-REFLEXAO E CRITICA 2022; 35:33. [PMID: 36217066 PMCID: PMC9550302 DOI: 10.1186/s41155-022-00233-z] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Pandemic-induced lockdowns disrupted sport training and competition. We aimed to identify the impact on the mental health of high-level athletes and clarify whether the effects differ for team-based and individual athletes. METHODS This cross-sectional survey, stratified by sex and sport type, collected demographic data and mental health measurements from 274 Brazilian high-performance athletes (142 from team sports and 132 from individual sports) involved with the Brazilian Olympic Committee program for the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Depression, disturbed sleep, and anxiety were assessed by the 9-Item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7-Item Insomnia Severity Index, and 7-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale respectively. Responses were analyzed dichotomously according to published threshold values, characterizing the relative frequency distribution of prevalence (PCRS) or non-prevalence of clinically relevant symptoms (NPCRS). RESULTS Out of all participants, 47 [17.1%], Z(274) = 15.38, p = .001, 32 [11.7%], Z(274) = 17.94, p = .001, and 49 [17.9%], Z(274) = 15.04, p = .001 had PCRS of anxiety, insomnia, and depression, respectively. There were no significant differences in the PCRS among genders. Compared with individual sport athletes, team sport athletes were more likely to report PCRS of insomnia (12 [37.5%] vs 20 [62.5%], Z(274) = -2.00, p = .046), and depression (18 [36.7%] vs 31 [63.3%], Z(274) = -2.63, p = .009) but not for anxiety. CONCLUSION Athletes reported high levels of mental health problems during the lockdown. Team sport athletes reported worse symptoms of insomnia and depression than individual sport athletes, possibly due to the impact of unaccustomed social isolation and lack of social team activity. Therefore, it becomes relevant to consider psychological support to team sport athletes who for some reason, such as a pandemic, enduring crisis even injury rehabilitation needs to be isolated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose I. Salles
- Sports and Exercise Medicine, William Harvey Research Institute, QMUL, Bancroft Road, London, E1 4DG UK
| | - Carolina Silva
- Olympic Laboratory, Brazilian Olympic Committee, Av. Embaixador Abelardo Bueno, 851 Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22775-040 Brazil
| | - Aline Wolff
- Olympic Laboratory, Brazilian Olympic Committee, Av. Embaixador Abelardo Bueno, 851 Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22775-040 Brazil
| | | | - Pedro Ribeiro
- Brain Mapping and Sensorimotor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Venceslau Brás, 71 - Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22290-140 Brazil
| | - Bruna Velasques
- Neurophysiology and Neuropsychology of Attention, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Venceslau Brás, 71 - Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22290-140 Brazil
| | - Dylan Morrissey
- Sports and Exercise Medicine, William Harvey Research Institute, QMUL, Bancroft Road, London, E1 4DG UK
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Hsu K, Tseng WC. What Decides Your Athletic Career?-Reflection from Our Study of GP.Mur-Associated Sports Talents during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12691. [PMID: 36231989 PMCID: PMC9566733 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This opinion article discusses the factors that attract children and teens to athletic careers. The most important attribute for the making of athletes is polished sports talent, followed by psychological, environmental, and incentive factors. Our laboratory studies a red blood cell (RBC) type called GP.Mur, which is rare in most parts of the world besides Southeast Asia. Intriguingly, the prevalence of the GP.Mur blood type is relatively high among Taiwanese elite athletes. The highest frequency of the GP.Mur blood type worldwide is found among Taiwan's Ami people (88-95% from hospital blood bank surveys in the 1980s). Though the Ami constitute only 0.6-0.8% of the Taiwanese population, from records of national track-and-field games in the past century, 10-60% of the medalists were Ami. Biologically, GP.Mur expression supports blood CO2 metabolism, which may have implications for athleticism. As many of our study subjects are elite college athletes with the GP.Mur blood type, we contemplated their upbringings and career dilemmas, especially during the difficult COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond individual sports talent, the pandemic particularly tests personal characteristics and socioeconomic support for becoming an athlete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hsu
- The Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui, New Taipei City 251020, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City 25245, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, New Taipei City 25245, Taiwan
- Department of Exercise & Health Sciences, University of Taipei, Taipei 100234, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chin Tseng
- Department of Physical Education, University of Taipei, Taipei 111036, Taiwan
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Johnson U, Hertting K, Ivarsson A, Lindgren EC. Favorable Adaptation during SARS-CoV-2-Pandemic as Told by Student-Athletes-A Longitudinal and Behavioral Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12512. [PMID: 36231812 PMCID: PMC9564911 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: The aim was to explore the impact of adaptive responses (resilience factors) on student-athletes' behaviors during a stressful period of life during the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic of 2020 and 2021. (2) Methods: A constructivist-based grounded theory (CGT) was used guided by a biopsychosocial approach. Based on purposeful sampling, 22 male and female student-athletes were divided into four focus group interviews (FGI) seven months after the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic (October 2020) and 18 of these were followed up by FGI seven months later (May 2021). The mean age was 17.65 and they represented golf and handball. (3) Results: The CGT contained four main categories seven months after the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic outbreak: Social support, Self-discipline, Physical practice and recovery and Management of everyday life. Fourteen months after the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic outbreak, four additional main categories emerged: More extensive social support, Belief in the future, Self-awareness and Responsibility and problem-solving. (4) Conclusions: The CTG suggests that student-athletes' favorable adaptations to the stressful SARS-CoV-2-pandemic period 2020-2021 are based on a gradually developed ability to take responsibility for one's own actions, insight into the importance of deepened social interaction, belief in a positive post-COVID future and increased awareness of physical activity and its relation to perceived health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Johnson
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, SE-30118 Halmstad, Sweden
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12
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Håkansson A, Moesch K, Kenttä G. COVID-19-related impact on mental health and career uncertainty in student-athletes—Data from a cohort of 7,025 athletes in an elite sport high school system in Sweden. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:943402. [PMID: 36203654 PMCID: PMC9530189 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.943402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesMental health consequences and behavior change has been described in elite athletes following the vast impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world of sports. However, most study samples have been of limited size, and few studies have assessed student-athletes. This study aimed to analyze perceived mental health impact, measured as clinical degree of depression and anxiety, worry about one's sport and about one's career, and behavioral change with respect to video gaming behavior, in high-school athletes in Sweden.MethodsData on anxiety and depression as well as on perceived behavioral changes during COVID-19 were collected from students at sports high schools in Sweden (N = 7,025) in February 2021, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.ResultsSixteen and 14% met criteria of moderate/severe depression and anxiety, respectively. Many respondents reported feeling mentally worse during the pandemic (66%), and were worried about the future of their sport (45%) or about their own future in sports (45%). Increased gaming behavior during COVID-19 was reported by 29%. All mental health variables were significantly more common in women, except increased gaming (more common in men). Being worried about one's career was less common in winter sports, more common in team sports and more common in older student-athletes, and associated with both depression and anxiety in regression analyses.DiscussionSelf-reported mental health impact of COVID-19 is substantial in student-athletes, and even more so in women and in team sports. The lower impact in winter athletes suggests a moderating effect of the seasons in which the COVID-19 outbreak occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Region Skåne, Clinical Sports and Mental Health Unit, Malmö, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Anders Håkansson
| | - Karin Moesch
- Region Skåne, Clinical Sports and Mental Health Unit, Malmö, Sweden
- Swedish Sports Confederation, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Sports Sciences, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Göran Kenttä
- Swedish Sports Confederation, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm, Sweden
- School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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13
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Marshall S, McNeil N, Seal EL, Nicholson M. Elite sport hubs during COVID-19: The job demands and resources that exist for athletes. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269817. [PMID: 35788207 PMCID: PMC9255745 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, elite sport leagues implemented hubs, or ‘bubbles’, which restricted athletes’ movements and social interactions in order to minimise the risk of athlete infection and allow competitions to continue. This was a new way of working and living for elite athletes and there was a dearth of literature on this topic. The main objective of the study was to investigate the impacts of the hub model on athletes over time, and what job demands and resources existed for athletes through the application of Demerouti et al. (2001) Job Demands-Resources Model. Multiple sequential semi-structured interviews were conducted with Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) athletes during the 2020 season, which was held entirely in a hub in North Queensland, Australia. The key job demands in an elite sport hub identified were the volume of work, simultaneous overload and underload, and nature of work in the hub. The key resources that emerged include recovery services, control and player agency, and constructive social relations. Despite the presence of job resources, which work to counteract, or buffer job demands in order to reduce work stress and improve motivation, they were found to be insufficient for athletes and inequitably distributed between clubs. The intensity of the hub model also amplified demands present in all WNBL seasons. This research is therefore useful for planning of future elite sport leagues to improve the type and amount of resources available to athletes, thereby improving athlete wellbeing and performance both within and outside a hub model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Marshall
- Centre for Sport and Social Impact, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicola McNeil
- Department of Management and Marketing, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Louise Seal
- Social and Global Studies Centre, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Nicholson
- Malaysia Office of the PVC & President, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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14
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Carnevale Pellino V, Lovecchio N, Puci MV, Marin L, Gatti A, Pirazzi A, Negri F, Ferraro OE, Vandoni M. Effects of the lockdown period on the mental health of elite athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a narrative review. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2022; 18:1187-1199. [PMID: 35693326 PMCID: PMC9174028 DOI: 10.1007/s11332-022-00964-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This review aimed to assess the effects of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on mental health to elite athletes. The emotional background influenced their sport career and was examined by questionnaires. Methods We included original studies that investigated psychological outcomes in elite athletes during COVID-19 lockdown. Sixteen original studies (n = 4475 participants) were analyzed. Results The findings showed that COVID-19 has an impact on elite athletes’ mental health and was linked with stress, anxiety and psychological distress. The magnitude of the impact was associated with athletes’ mood state profile, personality and resilience capacity. Conclusion The lockdown period impacted also elite athletes’ mental health and training routines with augmented anxiety but with fewer consequences than the general population thanks to adequate emotion regulation and coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Carnevale Pellino
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Tor Vergata Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Lovecchio
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Mariangela V. Puci
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luca Marin
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Rehabilitation Medicine and Sport (LARMS), 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Research, ASOMI College of Sciences, Marsa, 2080 Malta
| | - Alessandro Gatti
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Agnese Pirazzi
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Negri
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ottavia E. Ferraro
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Vandoni
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA)- Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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15
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Vincent HK, Patel S, Zaremski JL. Impact of COVID on Sports Injury Patterns, Changes in Mental Well-Being, and Strategies to Prepare for Future Pandemics in Sport. Curr Sports Med Rep 2022; 21:196-204. [PMID: 35703746 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000000966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This review describes the available evidence of the acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, referred to COVID-19) pandemic on musculoskeletal injury patterns and prevalence in athletes. A brief overview of the epidemiology of COVID-19 and prevalence in active populations from youth through professional are provided. Responses to COVID-19 regarding sport participation at regional, national, and international organizations are summarized. Downstream effects of complete or partial training shutdown on injury risk and mental health are discussed. Strategies to maintain athletic potential and overall well-being include maintaining safe access to training facilities and resources, implementation of injury prevention programs, organization of athlete support networks, and incorporation of resilience and coping training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather K Vincent
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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16
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Samji H, Wu J, Ladak A, Vossen C, Stewart E, Dove N, Long D, Snell G. Review: Mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and youth - a systematic review. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2022; 27:173-189. [PMID: 34455683 PMCID: PMC8653204 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 366] [Impact Index Per Article: 183.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented threat to global mental health. Children and adolescents may be more susceptible to mental health impacts related to their vulnerable developmental stage, fear of infection, home confinement, suspension of regular school and extracurricular activities, physical distancing mandates, and larger scale threats such as global financial recessions and associated impacts. Our objective was to review existing evidence of the COVID-19 pandemic's global impact on the mental health of children and adolescents <19 years of age and to identify personal and contextual factors that may enhance risk or confer protection in relation to mental health outcomes. METHODS We conducted a search of peer-reviewed and preprint research published in English from January 1, 2020, to February 22, 2021. We included studies collecting primary data on COVID-19-related mental health impacts on children and adolescents. We graded the strength of included articles using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine rating scheme. RESULTS Our search and review yielded 116 articles presenting data on a total of 127,923 children and adolescents; 50,984 child and adolescent proxy reports (e.g., parents, healthcare practitioners); and >3,000 chart reviews. A high prevalence of COVID-19-related fear was noted among children and adolescents, as well as more depressive and anxious symptoms compared with prepandemic estimates. Older adolescents, girls, and children and adolescents living with neurodiversities and/or chronic physical conditions were more likely to experience negative mental health outcomes. Many studies reported mental health deterioration among children and adolescents due to COVID-19 pandemic control measures. Physical exercise, access to entertainment, positive familial relationships, and social support were associated with better mental health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the urgent need for practitioners and policymakers to attend to and collaborate with children and adolescents, especially those in higher risk subgroups, to mitigate short- and long-term pandemic-associated mental health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasina Samji
- Faculty of Health SciencesSimon Fraser UniversityBurnabyBCCanada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease ControlVancouverBCCanada
- British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Judy Wu
- School of Population and Public HealthUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Amilya Ladak
- Faculty of Health SciencesSimon Fraser UniversityBurnabyBCCanada
| | - Caralyn Vossen
- School of Population and Global HealthMcGill UniversityMontrealQCCanada
| | - Evelyn Stewart
- British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
- Division of Clinical and Behavioural NeurosciencesDepartment of PsychiatryFaculty of MedicineUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Naomi Dove
- School of Population and Public HealthUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - David Long
- Division of Clinical and Behavioural NeurosciencesDepartment of PsychiatryFaculty of MedicineUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Gaelen Snell
- Faculty of Health SciencesSimon Fraser UniversityBurnabyBCCanada
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
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17
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Jia L, Carter MV, Cusano A, Li X, Kelly JD, Bartley JD, Parisien RL. The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental and Emotional Health of Athletes: A Systematic Review. Am J Sports Med 2022:3635465221087473. [PMID: 35413208 DOI: 10.1177/03635465221087473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused the cancellation or postponement of virtually every sporting event, resulting in training disruptions, income loss, and career uncertainties for athletes around the world. At present, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes is not well understood. PURPOSE To investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes and to identify risk factors associated with poor mental health outcomes. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify all articles reporting on athletes' mental and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Articles were selected based on relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria. Study characteristics, athlete demographics, and COVID-19 mental health data (sex-, type of sport-, and level of play-specific differences) were collected from each included article and analyzed. RESULTS A total of 35 studies were included in the final analysis, comprising athletes around the world and across numerous sports and levels of play. Most studies utilized at least 1 validated mental health questionnaire and assessed for outcomes such as depression, anxiety, stress, motivation, and athletic identity. Overall, athletes reported worse mental and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic, although these effects were attenuated by home training programs and quarantine training camps. Female sex and more elite levels of play were associated with an increased risk for poor mental health outcomes. Type of sport was associated with mixed results, with individual and team sports carrying different increased risks for poor mental and emotional health. Nearly all studies recommended the need for increased psychological support of athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes is complex and multifaceted. Increased social interactions with coaches and teammates, continued access to training facilities and mental health professionals, and active utilization of healthy coping mechanisms can improve mental health outcomes for athletes in the era of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori Jia
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael V Carter
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Xinning Li
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John D Kelly
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Robert L Parisien
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Rico-Díaz J, Río-Rodríguez D, Gómez-Varela J, Martín-Acero R. Handball Training and Competition With Facemasks in Galicia: The FISICOVID-DXTGALEGO Protocols Experience. Front Psychol 2022; 13:851732. [PMID: 35465546 PMCID: PMC9022707 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.851732] [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] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective COVID-19 caused a complete stop in non-professional sports. The use of face masks for team sports is not a widely used measure in non-professional sports. The study aimed to evaluate the perception about using the mask and the adaptation difficulties related to training and competition in team sports following the FISICOVID-DXTGALEGO protocol. Methods Seven hundred eighty-seven handball players from the Galician Handball Federation were followed during their return to participation after months of confinement through an electronic questionnaire of perception and experience on the use of a mask. Results There is an excellent adaptation to the mask in training and competition with medium and high correlations. The 86,41% of players reported an adaptation to the mask in 3 weeks with a three times a week training frequency. The negative opinion on the mask was drastically reduced (-66.86%) after use. The 80,44% of players considered the use of a mask as an essential measure to resume competitions. Conclusions It is very feasible to adapt to training and compete with a mask (hygienic or surgical) in a short period. The use of a mask following these protocols changed previous opinions on the disadvantages of the mask during training and competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Rico-Díaz
- Facultade de Ciencias da Educación, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Dan Río-Rodríguez
- Grupo de Aprendizaje y Control del Movimiento Humano, Facultade de Ciencias do Deporte e a Educación Física, Universidade da Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
- ATP Entrenamiento Personal, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Joaquín Gómez-Varela
- Grupo de Aprendizaje y Control del Movimiento Humano, Facultade de Ciencias do Deporte e a Educación Física, Universidade da Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Rafael Martín-Acero
- Grupo de Aprendizaje y Control del Movimiento Humano, Facultade de Ciencias do Deporte e a Educación Física, Universidade da Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
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Graham CT, Shepherd HA, Galea O, Kopala-Sibley DC, Emery CA, Yeates KO. Is psychological resilience associated with changes in youth sport participants' health-related quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic? J Child Adolesc Ment Health 2022; 34:30-41. [PMID: 38504644 DOI: 10.2989/17280583.2023.2277759] [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: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: This study investigated the quality of life of youth sport participants over the COVID-19 pandemic as moderated by psychological resilience.Methods: Participants included 93 high school sport participants (53.76% female, mean age = 15.59 ± 0.74) in a three-year longitudinal cohort study (SHRed Concussions) who completed the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Pediatric Quality of Life Scale (PedsQL), and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at Year 1 (pre-pandemic, 2019-2020) and Year 2 (pandemic, 2020-2021). Change in quality of life and mental health symptoms from Year 1 to Year 2 was examined using paired t-tests and Year 1 resilience was examined as a predictor of Year 2 quality of life and mental health symptoms using linear regression.Results: Among participants with Year 1 scores before the pandemic onset, mean PedsQL (n = 74, t = -0.26 [-2.63, 2.03], p = 0.80) and SDQ (n = 74, t = 0.030 [-0.90, 0.93], p = 0.98) scores did not significantly change between Year 1 and Year 2. In unadjusted analyses, Year 1 CD-RISC scores were positively associated with predicted Year 2 PedsQL scores when Year 1 scores were controlled (β = 0.31 [0.0062, 0.61], ΔR2 = 0.02) but not with residual change in SDQ scores (β = 0.035 [-0.11, 0.18], ΔR2 = 0.001).Conclusions: Quality of life did not change significantly after the pandemic onset, and resilience was modestly protective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn T Graham
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Heather A Shepherd
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Olivia Galea
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Canada
- The Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, University of Otago, New Zealand
| | - Daniel C Kopala-Sibley
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Canada
- Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Canada
| | - Carolyn A Emery
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Departments of Community Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Keith Owen Yeates
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Canada
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20
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Roviello V, Roviello GN. Less COVID-19 deaths in southern and insular Italy explained by forest bathing, Mediterranean environment, and antiviral plant volatile organic compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:7-17. [PMID: 34483793 PMCID: PMC8408569 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01309-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is causing major sanitary and socioeconomic issues, yet some locations are less impacted than others. While densely populated areas are likely to favor viral transmission, we hypothesize that other environmental factors could explain lower cases in some areas. We studied COVID-19 impact and population statistics in highly forested Mediterranean Italian regions versus some northern regions where the amount of trees per capita is much lower. We also evaluated the affinity of Mediterranean plant-emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs) isoprene, α-pinene, linalool and limonene for COVID-19 protein targets by molecular docking modeling. Results show that while mean death number increased about 4 times from 2020 to 2021, the percentage of deaths per population (0.06-0.10%) was lower in the greener Mediterranean regions such as Sardinia, Calabria and Basilica versus northern regions with low forest coverage, such as Lombardy (0.33%) and Emilia Romagna (0.29%). Data also show that the pandemic severity cannot be explained solely by population density. Modeling reveals that plant organic compounds could bind and interfere with the complex formed by the receptor binding domain of the coronavirus spike protein with the human cell receptor. Overall, our findings are likely explained by sea proximity and mild climate, Mediterranean diet and the abundance of non-deciduous Mediterranean plants which emit immunomodulatory and antiviral compounds. Potential implications include 'forest bathing' as a therapeutic practice, designing nasal sprays containing plant volatile organic compounds, and preserving and increasing forest coverage. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10311-021-01309-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Roviello
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering (DICMaPI), University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Istituto Di Biostrutture E Bioimmagini, IBB–CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Naples, Italy
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di Fronso S, Montesano C, Costa S, Santi G, Robazza C, Bertollo M. Rebooting in sport training and competitions: Athletes' perceived stress levels and the role of interoceptive awareness. J Sports Sci 2021; 40:542-549. [PMID: 34812129 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.2004679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The psychological consequences of the lockdown in the sport context have been well studied. However, few studies investigated athletes' perceived stress during the rebooting in sport training and competitions; moreover, no investigations examined the relationship between perceived stress and interoceptive awareness. To mind this gap and support the enactment of appropriate behaviours for practising sports in a unique situation, we compared athletes' perceived stress data collected during the rebooting in sport activities with normative data and with those collected during the first Italian lockdown. Furthermore, we examined the impact of interoceptive awareness towards positive and negative stress by means of regression analyses. The IPSS-10 and the MAIA questionnaire were administered to 220 athletes. Findings suggest that athletes were experiencing a detrimental situation despite the resumption of sport activities but when comparing rebooting phase with the lockdown, female athletes began to feel greater financial security thereby reducing their perceived stress. Athletes who scored high especially for body trusting - the experience of one's body as safe and trustworthy - could regulate their perceived stress levels by increasing positive and reducing negative stress. Athletes could engage in mindful activities related to the body to reduce their perceived stress levels and better deal with an unprecedented situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selenia di Fronso
- Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Montesano
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sergio Costa
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Santi
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Robazza
- Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bertollo
- Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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22
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Conde E, Martínez-Aranda LM, Sanz G, López de Subijana C, Sánchez-Pato A, Díaz-Aroca Á, Leiva-Arcas A, García-Roca JA, Ramis Y, Torregrossa M. Effects of the COVID-19 Health Crisis on Sports Practice, Life Quality, and Emotional Status in Spanish High-Performance Athletes. Front Psychol 2021; 12:736499. [PMID: 34646217 PMCID: PMC8503513 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.736499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spain is one of the many countries highly affected by the COVID-19 crisis, establishing very restrictive measures with a complete lockdown for more than 3 months. This situation forced the complete closure of sport practice and national or international competitions, leading to a negative impact on physical and psychological health of high-performance athletes. Therefore, the objectives of this study were (a) to determine the effects of the COVID-19 health crisis on Spanish high-performance athletes in terms of sports practice, life quality, and emotional state and (b) to identify the profile with the greatest difficulties during and after the lockdown. A sample of 130 high-performance athletes aged between 18 and 34 years (67 women and 63 men) participated in this study (83.1% achieved a medal in National–International elite competitions; 86.9% were considered student-athletes). Measures included socio-demographic data through a 5-dimension ad hoc survey: physical activity and exercise using an adapted version from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); health status and limitations using an adapted version of SF-12 Health Questionnaire; Perceived stress (Short-PSS); and Mood States (29-item POMS). All participants have shown a significant decrease pre–post-lockdown in both health and performance perception, especially in women, individual athletes, medalists, and student-athletes. Strong limitations of training, attention, and motivation as well as a moderate negative emotional state during lockdown were reported, in women, individual athletes, medalists, and student-athletes. Even with an improved emotional state and energy level in the post-lockdown period, moderate-to-high stress scores were reported by women and medalists. Our findings highlight the importance of paying attention to the physical and psychological health of elite athletes on three profiles: team athletes (due to social distance), student-athletes (dual-career issues), and women athletes (prevalence of implicit gender inequalities in sport).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Conde
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis Manuel Martínez-Aranda
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain.,Human Movement Neuroscience Research Group (Neuromove), (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - Gema Sanz
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Antonio Sánchez-Pato
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain.,Faculty of Sport, Olympic Studies Center, Catholic University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Álvaro Díaz-Aroca
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Leiva-Arcas
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain.,Faculty of Sport, Olympic Studies Center, Catholic University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan Alfonso García-Roca
- Faculty of Sport, San Antonio Catholic University (UCAM), Murcia, Spain.,Faculty of Sport, Olympic Studies Center, Catholic University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Yago Ramis
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Torregrossa
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Fröhlich S, Imboden C, Iff S, Spörri J, Quednow BB, Scherr J, Seifritz E, Claussen MC. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Psychiatric Symptoms among Swiss Elite Athletes during the First Lockdown of the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010780. [PMID: 34682521 PMCID: PMC8535631 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated first lockdown measures may have had a relevant impact on the mental health of competitive athletes. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of various mental health issues in a Swiss elite athletes' cohort during the first lockdown of the pandemic, and to assess their association with different potential risk factors. Elite athletes from different disciplines were interviewed during the first lockdown in spring 2020 by means of an online questionnaire on symptoms of existing anxieties, depression and sleep disorders, as well as on training circumstances and physical performance before and during the lockdown. Additionally, the economic situation, secondary occupations and current physical health problems were surveyed. A total of 203 (92 female, 111 male) athletes met the inclusion criteria and participated in the survey. Training volume and intensity decreased significantly during lockdown from 3.1 to 2.7 h/day. Financial existential fears increased and were associated with higher training volumes and higher trait anxiety scores. Depressive symptoms and insomnia were present but not exceptionally frequent during the lockdown. Depressive symptoms were associated with higher anxiety scores, higher insomnia severity scores, lower training intensity and worse coping with the measures taken by the authorities against the pandemic. Changes in training and daily habits due to the first lockdown may have affected the mental health of elite athletes. Longitudinal studies should, however, further investigate the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Fröhlich
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.S.); (J.S.)
- University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| | - Christian Imboden
- Private Clinic Wyss AG, CH-3053 Münchenbuchsee, Switzerland; (C.I.); (M.C.C.)
| | - Samuel Iff
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (S.I.); (B.B.Q.); (E.S.)
| | - Jörg Spörri
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.S.); (J.S.)
- University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Boris B. Quednow
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (S.I.); (B.B.Q.); (E.S.)
| | - Johannes Scherr
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.S.); (J.S.)
- University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (S.I.); (B.B.Q.); (E.S.)
| | - Malte C. Claussen
- Private Clinic Wyss AG, CH-3053 Münchenbuchsee, Switzerland; (C.I.); (M.C.C.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (S.I.); (B.B.Q.); (E.S.)
- Psychiatric Services Grisons, CH-7000 Chur, Switzerland
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24
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Training Conditions and Emotional Impact on Spanish Olympic Swimmers and Rowers in Social Isolation Due to COVID-19. Results of a Survey. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132011148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This article analyzes the results of a survey conducted in 2020 with Spanish Olympic swimmers and rowers, who were confined to their homes due to the epidemiological crisis. The questionnaire was administered between 23 April and 25 May. Responses to the questionnaire on emotional and adaptive reactions during the COVID-19 confinement (REACOVID-19) were received from 88 subjects, who represented 100% of the total population of Spanish Olympic swimmers and rowers. Through this questionnaire, they were asked about their living conditions, their daily training habits and their psychological, cognitive and emotional adaptation during the confinement. The results show the commitment of these athletes to their sports goals and their responsibility in respecting the confinement rules. Sixty-seven per cent of them stated that they had not left their homes for 96 days. In these extreme circumstances, the majority trained an average of 11 to 13 h a week and coped with the confinement with a positive attitude, in spite of the inconveniences of social isolation, the lack of equipment and technical support for training and the limitations of their physical space. The article analyzes which emotional and social factors influenced both their motivation and their hours of training.
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Mental Health in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Exploring the Impact on Well-Being Across the Athlete-Collegiate Career. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL SPORT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1123/jcsp.2021-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictive policies altered student-athletes’ academic and athletic life. Sparse research has investigated the pandemic’s effect on student-athlete mental health in terms of both negative (e.g., depression, anxiety) and positive (e.g., well-being, quality of life) dimensions. This study explored the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on well-being and quality of life among National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I student-athletes at different stages of their collegiate career. Ninety-nine student-athletes (Mage = 19.7 years, SD = 1.5) completed assessments on their mental health. Regression analysis revealed experiences directly related to COVID-19 did not affect general well-being or quality of life, but anxiety, depression, and significant insomnia did. Social well-being was lower for student-athletes closer to graduation (e.g., juniors, seniors), independent of reported anxiety and depression levels. These findings highlight the importance of psychosocial support, particularly in times of crisis, and indicate that tailored support might be beneficial at later stages of the collegiate years.
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Psychological States and Training Habits during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown in Spanish Basketball Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179025. [PMID: 34501619 PMCID: PMC8430994 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions designed to slow the spread of infection greatly disrupted people’s lives. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of lockdown on the psychology, training, and sleep habits of a cohort of basketball players. An online survey involving 169 professional and amateur athletes was conducted using four validated psychological questionnaires (WLEIS-S, POMS, BRS, SMS-II) and a Likert scale to measure the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and training variables. Gender differences in fatigue (p = 0.022); friendships (p = 0.017); others’ emotional appraisal (p < 0.001); and resilience (p = 0.031) were apparent, with higher values for women in all categories bar resilience. Comparisons before and during the lockdown revealed that all participants reduced their RPE (p < 0.001); training days (p = 0.004); and training hours (p < 0.001), and experienced a decline in the quality of sleep (p < 0.001). Sleep hours (p < 0.001) increased during lockdown. The professionals and females maintained their training days (p > 0.05), while the non-professionals and males did not. Psychological states during lockdown were a predictor of the differences in training and recovery variables. In situations where training and competition are limited, it is important to develop plans to maintain physical activity, good quality sleep, and promote greater emotional management and understanding to control negative moods.
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The impact of COVID-19 lockdown on child and adolescent mental health: systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021:10.1007/s00787-021-01856-w. [PMID: 34406494 PMCID: PMC8371430 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01856-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020, resulting in many countries worldwide calling for lockdowns. This study aimed to review the existing literature on the effects of the lockdown measures established as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents. Embase, Ovid, Global Health, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and pre-print databases were searched in this PRISMA-compliant systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42021225604). We included individual studies reporting on a wide range of mental health outcomes, including risk and protective factors, conducted in children and adolescents (aged ≤ 19 years), exposed to COVID-19 lockdown. Data extraction and quality appraisal were conducted by independent researchers, and results were synthesised by core themes. 61 articles with 54,999 children and adolescents were included (mean age = 11.3 years, 49.7% female). Anxiety symptoms and depression symptoms were common in the included studies and ranged 1.8-49.5% and 2.2-63.8%, respectively. Irritability (range = 16.7-73.2%) and anger (range = 30.0-51.3%), were also frequently reported by children and adolescents. Special needs and the presence of mental disorders before the lockdown, alongside excessive media exposure, were significant risk factors for anxiety. Parent-child communication was protective for anxiety and depression. The COVID-19 lockdown has resulted in psychological distress and highlighted vulnerable groups such as those with previous or current mental health difficulties. Supporting the mental health needs of children and adolescents at risk is key. Clinical guidelines to alleviate the negative effects of COVID-19 lockdown and public health strategies to support this population need to be developed.
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The Effects of the COVID-19 Environments on Changes in Body Composition in Japanese Elite Fencing Athlete. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:sports9070095. [PMID: 34202335 PMCID: PMC8309863 DOI: 10.3390/sports9070095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Japanese government declared a state of emergency from 7 April to 25 May to limit people’s movement due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This pandemic negatively affects athletes’ body composition due to inactivity. Therefore, we compared the body composition data (i.e., fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM)), of 43 Japanese elite fencers (22 men, 21 women), in September 2019 for baseline, and of 21 (12 men, 9 women) who completed the following measurements in June 2020 (POST; immediately after rescinding the emergency state) and September 2020 (POST-4M; 4-months after rescinding the emergency state). Results at baseline indicate no significant differences in body compositions among fencing disciplines. We also confirmed no significant changes in body mass during the 1-year investigation period in either sex. There were no time-course changes in men’s FFM and FM; however, time-course changes in women’s FM were observed. Compared to the baseline, FM values were significantly higher at POST and then returned to baseline levels at POST-4M in women. In conclusion, the 2-month stay-at-home period due to COVID-19 negatively affected women’s FM changes, but not their FFM or men’s FM.
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29
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Morbi MDR, Kopanakis AR, Mateu P, Graeff B, Marques RFR. What Will We Do? The Action Plan From a Brazilian Professional Football Club Youth Academy Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:589459. [PMID: 34164618 PMCID: PMC8215199 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.589459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2020, the world was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which remains a major challenge for most countries today. In Brazil, football clubs' youth academies have faced a disruption of their regular activities. In order to study how the learning cultures of a Brazilian professional football club youth academy have been changed, and the alternatives created by the club's staff within this context, this perspective article aims to analyze how they have structured the Under-15 (U15) team learning culture during social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through document and thematic analysis on a Brazilian professional football club's youth academy program, we promoted a dialogue between the process of adaptation to remote theoretical-tactical teaching with the learning theory proposed by Hodkinson and collaborators. The main theme of analysis of this study was the remote structure of the theoretical-tactical learning and physical training. Challenged with the need to transpose face-to-face activities into a learning culture based on remote communication, the U15 team coaching staff created a process to prescribe physical training, and to teach and discuss football tactical issues with young players during the period of social isolation. This perspective article shows that it is possible for sports institutions to create programs for the development of young athletes within the social isolation/distancing context, considering both theoretical-tactical learning and physical training processes. The adaptation to remote environments as structures for the learning culture seems a challenge, but is also a good alternative for young players to develop their interpretation and perception of football theoretical-tactical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murilo Dos Reis Morbi
- School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Pau Mateu
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Billy Graeff
- Federal University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
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Üngür G, Karagözoğlu C. Do personality traits have an impact on anxiety levels of athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic? CURRENT ISSUES IN PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 9:246-257. [PMID: 38013962 PMCID: PMC10658853 DOI: 10.5114/cipp.2021.106138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sports world is one of the sectors most affected by the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. Athletes from specific sport disciplines have experienced the new situation in different ways. Therefore, understanding their individual experiences and psychological responses may help to design better intervention programs. Accordingly, this study investigated the relationship between athletes' personality traits and anxiety in the light of their individual experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE The COVID-19 impact questionnaire, Big Five Inventory-35, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were administered to 321 male and 168 female athletes in Turkey from various sport disciplines. At the time of data collection, training and competitions had been canceled in all sports for two months. RESULTS Most athletes (70.7%) were worried about being infected with SARS-CoV-2 if competitions were to restart soon. The regression analyses revealed that emotional stability, extroversion, and age were negative predictors of state anxiety; emotional stability, extroversion, and conscientiousness were negative predictors of trait anxiety; agreeableness was a positive predictor of state anxiety. Athletes who perceived that their relationships with family or close friends worsened during home confinement (17.2%) had significantly higher state anxiety and trait anxiety scores than those who perceived a positive relationship change (28%) or no relationship change (54.8%). The agreeableness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability scores of athletes who perceived a negative relationship change with family or close friends were also significantly lower than for athletes who perceived no change or a positive change. CONCLUSIONS Overall, personality traits affected athletes' anxiety levels and their relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Üngür
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
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31
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Chandler AJ, Arent MA, Cintineo HP, Torres-McGehee TM, Winkelmann ZK, Arent SM. The Impacts of COVID-19 on Collegiate Student-Athlete Training, Health, and Well-Being. TRANSLATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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