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Washif JA, Hettinga FJ, Ammar A, van Rensburg DCJ, Materne O, Trabelsi K, Romdhani M, Farooq A, Pyne DB, Chamari K. Supporting athletes during a challenging situation: recommendations from a global insight of COVID-19 home-based training experience. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:83. [PMID: 38622683 PMCID: PMC11017558 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00869-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For athletes, overcoming obstacles in challenging situations like pandemic home training is crucial. Strategies and approaches in this context are not well-documented. Our study aims to investigate such a scenario from a performance standpoint, based on a major global crisis: the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. METHODS This cross-sectional study surveyed athletes without disabilities using online questionnaires (35 languages) from May to July 2020. Questions included aspects of alternative routines, training monitoring, recovery, sleep patterns, injury occurrence/prevention based on structured answers, and an open-ended question on lockdown training experiences. RESULTS Of the 11,762 athletes from 142 countries, 63% were male, including at World-Class, International, National, State and Recreational levels. During lockdown, 25% athletes used innovative or modern ways to maintain or improve fitness e.g., virtual reality and tracking devices (favoring World-Class level, 30%). Many athletes, regardless of gender (43%) watched video competitions to improve/maintain their mental skills and performance [World-Class (47%) and International (51%)]. Contact frequency between athletes and their coaches was mainly at least once a week (36%), more among higher-level (World-Class/International) than lower-level athletes (27 vs. 16%). Higher-level athletes (≥ 54%) monitored training load and were assisted by their coaches (21%). During lockdown, stretching (67%) was considered one of the primary means of recovery, especially for higher-level athletes (> 70%). Compared to pre-lockdown, about two-thirds of athletes reported "normal" or "improved" sleep quality and quantity, suggesting a low sleep quality pre-lockdown. On average, 40% utilized injury prevention exercises (at least) once a week [World-Class (51%) and International (39%)]. Most injury occurrences during lockdown involved the knee (18%), ankle (16%), and back (9%). Four key themes emerged regarding lockdown experiences: remote training adaptation (e.g., shifting training focus), training creativity (e.g., using household items), performance enhancement opportunities (e.g., refocusing neglected aspects), and mental and motivation challenges. CONCLUSIONS Both male and female athletes, particularly those of higher levels, displayed some adaptalibity during the COVID-19 lockdown, employing innovative approaches and technology for training. Many athletes implemented load monitoring, recovery, and attentive of injury prevention, while optimizing their sleep quality and quantity. Athletes demonstrated their abilities to navigate challenges, and utilized different coping strategies in response to the lockdown's constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jad Adrian Washif
- Sports Performance Division, Institut Sukan Negara Malaysia (National Sports Institute of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Florentina J Hettinga
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Achraf Ammar
- Department of Training and Movement Science, Institute of Sport Science, Johannes Gutenberg- University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Research Laboratory, Molecular Bases of Human Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, LR19ES13, Sfax, Tunisia
- High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Dina Christa Janse van Rensburg
- Section Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Medical Board Member, World Netball, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Khaled Trabelsi
- High Institute of Sport and Physical Education, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricity, Sport and Health, EM2S, University of Sfax, LR19JS01, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Romdhani
- Physical Activity, Sport and Health, UR18JS01, National Observatory of Sports, Tunis, Tunisia
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory in Neurosciences, Physiology and Psychology: Physical Activity, Health and Learning (LINP2), Faculty of Sport Sciences, UPL, UFR STAPS, Paris Nanterre University, Nanterre, France
| | - Abdulaziz Farooq
- Research Department, Aspetar, Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - David B Pyne
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
| | - Karim Chamari
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education, ISSEP Ksar Saïd, Manouba University, Manouba, Tunisia
- Naufar Wellness and Recovery Center, Doha, Qatar
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Bernstorff MA, Schumann N, Cibura C, Gerstmeyer J, Schildhauer TA, Königshausen M. The Impact of the SARS-COVID-19 Lockdowns on the Subjectively Perceived Performance Level of Amateur Athletes after Returning to the Gyms. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2024; 9:59. [PMID: 38651417 PMCID: PMC11036201 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk9020059] [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] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Since December 2019, few issues have garnered as much global attention as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-19). The imposed lockdowns in 2020/21, which led to the closure of all gyms, barred people from participating in their favourite sports activities. This study explores athletes' self-evaluations of their performance levels upon return to training facilities post-reopening. Data were collected in May 2021, after the end of the second lockdown, using a national online questionnaire. The study recorded 20 demographic and training-specific parameters to discern the factors influencing self-perceived performance upon resuming gym activities after the 2020/2021 lockdown. A total of 1378 respondents participated in the study. Of the total number of participants, 27.5% (365) reported regaining 100% of their original performance level after reopening their studios, a proportion that comprised 212 males, 150 females, and 3 individuals of unspecified gender. Additionally, 35.7% (474) estimated their performance level to be up to 75%, followed by 30% (398) recording their performance level at 50%, and a minority of 6.8% (90) determining their performance level to be up to 25%. Exercise intensity prior to lockdown, training experience, sex, and concurrent practice of another sport significantly influenced the athletes' self-assessment of their current fitness levels (p > 0.001, p > 0.001, p > 0.001, and 0.006, respectively). We need to understand the factors that shape self-perception, especially in case of another lockdown, in order to provide preventive assistance concerning mental and physical well-being. Positive influences on self-perception include prior athletic experience, intensive training before the lockdown, and continued participation in sports throughout the lockdown. Younger age is also favourable, but this may not necessarily reflect the benefits of youth; rather, it could indicate the current lack of accessible online sports activities for older individuals. Women, however, might have a less favourable perception of their own athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Bernstorff
- Universitätsklinik Bergmannsheil Bochum, Medical Department of Ruhr University of Bochum, 44789 Bochum, Germany; (C.C.); (J.G.); (T.A.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Norman Schumann
- Institution for Mathematics, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Charlotte Cibura
- Universitätsklinik Bergmannsheil Bochum, Medical Department of Ruhr University of Bochum, 44789 Bochum, Germany; (C.C.); (J.G.); (T.A.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Julius Gerstmeyer
- Universitätsklinik Bergmannsheil Bochum, Medical Department of Ruhr University of Bochum, 44789 Bochum, Germany; (C.C.); (J.G.); (T.A.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Thomas A. Schildhauer
- Universitätsklinik Bergmannsheil Bochum, Medical Department of Ruhr University of Bochum, 44789 Bochum, Germany; (C.C.); (J.G.); (T.A.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Matthias Königshausen
- Universitätsklinik Bergmannsheil Bochum, Medical Department of Ruhr University of Bochum, 44789 Bochum, Germany; (C.C.); (J.G.); (T.A.S.); (M.K.)
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Qi Y, Sun K, Zhao D, Liu L, Zhang S. Kinematic and electromyography characteristics of performing butterfly stroke with different swimming speeds in flow environment. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20122. [PMID: 37809614 PMCID: PMC10559845 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20122] [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] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate effect of flow speeds on the upper limb muscular activity of butterfly swimmers training in a flow environment. A comparison of kinematic characteristics and muscular activity of upper limbs were made when the swimmers training with different flow speeds in a swimming flume. The purpose was to provide a basis for scientifically formulating special swimming training advice for athletes' training in flow environment. Methods Ten youth female butterfly swimmers participated in the study with the speed of 70%, 80%, and 90% level of their max speeds. A stroke cycle was divided into four phases (entry, pull, push, and recovery). The kinematic parameters of upper limbs (stroke rate, stroke length, duration of each phase in a stroke cycle) and muscular activity (onset timing, integrated electromyography (iEMG), contribution ratio) of four muscles (Biceps brachii (BB), Triceps brachii (TB), Pectoralis major (PM), and Latissimus dorsi (LD)) were collected and analyzed in different stroke phases. Results There was no significant difference between stroke rate and stroke length with different flow speeds. There were significant differences among the duration of the four stroke phases. The entry phase had the longest duration, the pull phase had the shortest duration, the push phase was longer than the recovery phase, and the recovery phase was shorter than the entry phase. The BB and PM were activated significantly earlier at 90% of target speed than at 80% of target speed, while the TB was activated significantly later than other two speeds. The muscular contribution ratio of the PM was highest in the pull phase and lowest in the pushing phase. The muscular contribution ratio of the BB was significantly lower in the pushing phase than in other three stroke phases. The muscular contribution of the TB was significantly higher in the recovery phase than in other three stroke phases. The muscular contribution ratio of the LD was highest in the pushing phase, and it was significantly higher in pushing phase and recovery phase than in pull phase. Conclusions (1) When butterfly athletes training with 70%, 80% and 90% of their max speed in a flow environment, it didn't make significant differences between the kinematic or muscle activation characteristics of the upper limbs movement except the muscle onset timing. (2) Stroke phase was the main factor of the duration and the muscle contribution ratio during butterfly arm stroke for young athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqian Qi
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Kaiyang Sun
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Defeng Zhao
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Lingjun Liu
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science, Shanghai, 200030, China
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Alomari MA, Megreya AM, Hadi S, Haddad M. The mitigating role of physical activities on emotions is gender-specific: An experience during "lenient" COVID-19 prevention protocols. Health Care Women Int 2023; 44:1002-1018. [PMID: 37042783 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2023.2181963] [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: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The researchers examined emotional status subsequent to changes in physical (PA) and sedentary (SA) activities during "lenient" COVID-19 prevention protocols that allowed being outdoors. Emotions, PA, and SA were collected from 272 women and 145 men in Qatar. The researchers showed a decrease (p < 0.05) in PA and an increase (p < 0.05) in SA participation during the pandemic. These alterations were different (p < 0.05) between genders and associated (p < 0.05) with emotional status during the COVID-19-induced confinement, but only (p < 0.05) in men. The "mitigating" role of PA for the adverse emotional effects of the pandemic is demonstrated, especially among men. Therefore, "lenient" regulations should be considered around the globe during future pandemics for adequate PA and emotional wellbeing. However, plans should incorporate additional tactics to PA to manage emotional status among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud A Alomari
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- Department of Physical Education, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed M Megreya
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Safya Hadi
- Department of Physical Education, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Monoem Haddad
- Department of Physical Education, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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5
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Tsolakis C, Cherouveim ED, Viliotis A, Simeonidis T, Skouras A, Koulouvaris P. Effect of a home-based exercise training program on anthropometric characteristics and exercise performance during Covid-19 quarantine in young high-level kayak athletes. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 19:339-347. [PMID: 36092545 PMCID: PMC9450821 DOI: 10.1007/s11332-022-00979-0] [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] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The Covid-19 restriction exposed most athletes to insufficient training stimuli leading to detraining. This study investigated whether a home-based exercise training program could preserve body composition and exercise performance in young high-level kayak athletes during Covid-19 restriction. Methods Seventeen healthy young high-level kayak athletes (10 males and 7 females), aged 14.7 ± 1 yrs, participated in this study. A 7-week home-based training program was followed during Covid-19 restriction. Baseline measurements were assessed 4 weeks before Covid-19 pandemic and ended on 4 May 2020. Body composition, flexibility, isometric muscle trunk strength (Biodex), anaerobic power (30-s all-out trial), and aerobic capacity (4-min maximal test) were evaluated. Personal daily loads and wellness details were collected with AthleteMonitoring.com software. Results Home-based exercise training program was effective to improve flexibility (9.20 ± 2.85%) and lean body mass (3.96 ± 0.89%), to maintain muscle strength, anaerobic power, body mass, and body fat percentage but insufficient to maintain aerobic capacity (- 8.96 ± 2.49%). Conclusion The findings of the present study potentially highlight the importance of the implementation of such a program to minimize the detraining effect on young athletes during periods of movement restriction caused by pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charilaos Tsolakis
- Sports Excellence, 1st Orthopedics Department, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Sports Performance Laboratory, School of Physical Education & Sports Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evgenia D. Cherouveim
- Sports Excellence, 1st Orthopedics Department, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Division of Sports Medicine and Biology of Exercise, School of Physical Education and Sports Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Theocharis Simeonidis
- Sports Excellence, 1st Orthopedics Department, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Skouras
- Sports Excellence, 1st Orthopedics Department, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Koulouvaris
- Sports Excellence, 1st Orthopedics Department, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Śliż D, Wiecha S, Gąsior JS, Kasiak PS, Ulaszewska K, Postuła M, Małek ŁA, Mamcarz A. The Influence of Nutrition and Physical Activity on Exercise Performance after Mild COVID-19 Infection in Endurance Athletes-CESAR Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245381. [PMID: 36558540 PMCID: PMC9788030 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245381] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 and imposed restrictions are linked with numerous health consequences, especially among endurance athletes (EA). Unfavorable changes in physical activity and nutrition may affect later sports and competition performance. The aims of this study were: (1) to assess the impact of COVID-19 infection and pandemic restrictions on the nutrition and physical activity of EAs and (2) to compare them with the results of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). In total, 49 EAs (nmale = 43, nfemale = 6, mean age = 39.9 ± 7.8 year., height = 178.4 ± 6.8 cm, weight = 76.3 ± 10.4 kg; BMI = 24.0 ± 2.6 kg·m−2) underwent pre- and post-COVID-19 CPET and fulfilled the dietary and physical activity survey. COVID-19 infection significantly deteriorated CPET performance. There was a reduction in oxygen uptake and in heart rate post-COVID-19 (both p < 0.001). Consuming processed meat and replacing meat with plant-based protein affected blood lactate concentration (p = 0.035). Fat-free mass was linked with consuming unsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.031). Adding salt to meals influenced maximal speed/power (p = 0.024) and breathing frequency (p = 0.033). Dietary and Fitness Practitioners and Medical Professionals should be aware of possible COVID-19 infection and pandemic consequences among EA. The results of this study are a helpful guideline to properly adjust the treatment, nutrition, and training of EA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Śliż
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
- School of Public Health, Postgraduate Medical Education Center, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (D.Ś.); (S.W.)
| | - Szczepan Wiecha
- Department of Physical Education and Health, Faculty in Biala Podlaska, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, 21-500 Biala Podlaska, Poland
- Correspondence: (D.Ś.); (S.W.)
| | - Jakub S. Gąsior
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and General Pediatrics, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Seweryn Kasiak
- Students’ Scientific Group of Lifestyle Medicine, 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ulaszewska
- Students’ Scientific Group of Lifestyle Medicine, 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Postuła
- Center for Preclinical Research and Technology CEPT, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz A. Małek
- Department of Epidemiology, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Cardiology, 04-635 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Artur Mamcarz
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
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Gallè F, Protano C, Zaccarin M, Zanni S, Valeriani F, Liguori G, Romano Spica V, Vitali M. Swimming at the Time of COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study among Young Italian Competitive Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13236. [PMID: 36293816 PMCID: PMC9603593 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013236] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several restriction measures were imposed to control the virus transmission, with important repercussions on different sectors, including sport. This study aimed to explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian competitive swimmers by analyzing how the disease and the restriction measures affected their training. In total, 396 competitive swimmers (mean age 16.0 ± 3.2 years) participated. A questionnaire was used to collect their general information, to assess whether they had had COVID-19 and the number of training days lost due to the disease or to the closure of swimming facilities, and the possible alternative training adopted. Twenty-four (6.1%) participants had had COVID-19 and lost, on average, 32 training days. The closure of facilities caused an interruption in swimming training for about 18% of the participants. The majority of these continued their training, mainly through home-based exercise, but reduced their weekly training time (-8 median hours/week). A positive association was found between regularly adopted weekly training volume and that assumed during pandemic closure (OR 9.433, CI95% 1.644-54.137, p = 0.012), suggesting that the previous level of engagement in sport can represent a predictor of exercise maintenance in challenging situations such as a pandemic. Further studies are needed to identify personal, environmental, and social resources that can help individuals to counteract the negative effects of restriction measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Zaccarin
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Zanni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Kurowski M, Seys S, Bonini M, Del Giacco S, Delgado L, Diamant Z, Kowalski ML, Moreira A, Rukhadze M, Couto M. Physical exercise, immune response, and susceptibility to infections-current knowledge and growing research areas. Allergy 2022; 77:2653-2664. [PMID: 35485959 DOI: 10.1111/all.15328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
This review presents state-of-the-art knowledge and identifies knowledge gaps for future research in the area of exercise-associated modifications of infection susceptibility. Regular moderate-intensity exercise is believed to have beneficial effects on immune health through lowering inflammation intensity and reducing susceptibility to respiratory infections. However, strenuous exercise, as performed by professional athletes, may promote infection: in about half of athletes presenting respiratory symptoms, no causative pathogen can be identified. Acute bouts of exercise enhance the release of pro-inflammatory mediators, which may induce infection-like respiratory symptoms. Relatively few studies have assessed the influence of regularly repeated exercise on the immune response and systemic inflammation compared to the effects of acute exercise. Additionally, ambient and environmental conditions may modify the systemic inflammatory response and infection susceptibility, particularly in outdoor athletes. Both acute and chronic regular exercise influence humoral and cellular immune response mechanisms, resulting in decreased specific and non-specific response in competitive athletes. The most promising areas of further research in exercise immunology include detailed immunological characterization of infection-prone and infection-resistant athletes, examining the efficacy of nutritional and pharmaceutical interventions as countermeasures to infection symptoms, and determining the influence of various exercise loads on susceptibility to infections with respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. By establishing a uniform definition of an "elite athlete," it will be possible to make a comparable and straightforward interpretation of data from different studies and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Kurowski
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Sven Seys
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matteo Bonini
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli - IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health "M. Aresu", University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luis Delgado
- Basic and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar de São João E.P.E, Porto, Portugal
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine & Allergology, Institute for Clinical Science, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marek L Kowalski
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - André Moreira
- Basic and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar de São João E.P.E, Porto, Portugal.,Epidemiology Research Unit- Instituto de Saúde Pública, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maia Rukhadze
- Allergy & Immunology Centre, Tbilisi, Georgia.,Teaching University Geomedi LLC, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Mariana Couto
- Allergy Unit, Hospital CUF Descobertas, Lisbon, Portugal
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Batista A, Neto E, Branquinho L, Ferraz R, Ribeiro J, Forte P, Ávila-Carvalho L. Flexibility of Ballet Dancers in COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Observational Study in Portugal. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159235. [PMID: 35954588 PMCID: PMC9368525 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to verify how dancers’ flexibility work has developed during confinement through four assessment moments: before, during (two times), and after the lockdown period. The sample was formed by 18 dancers from the Porto Dance Conservatory (Portugal) with an average age of 11.4 ± 1.4 years and 1.4 ± 0.7 years of experience. To assess the passive and active flexibility level, we used seven of the International Gymnastics Federation’s recommended tests using main joints (i.e., hips and spine). The first evaluation was performed before the pandemic situation began in a training environment, and the second and third evaluation were performed during the lockdown, in home environment, and in virtual trainings. Finally, the last evaluation was carried out in a training environment after returning to face-to-face activities and with several rules such a social distancing and mask use. The results showed that significant improvements were verified in the flexibility level of the dancers from the first to the fourth moment of evaluation. In the current study, no statistical significance was noted for the decreased values of functional asymmetry between the preferred and non-preferred lower limbs. These differences may have substantial relevance for dancers’ harmonious body development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Batista
- Higher Institute of Educational Sciences of the Douro (ISCE Douro), 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal; (A.B.); (L.B.); (J.R.)
- CI-ISCE/ISCE Douro, 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Elmiro Neto
- Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40170-110, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Luís Branquinho
- Higher Institute of Educational Sciences of the Douro (ISCE Douro), 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal; (A.B.); (L.B.); (J.R.)
- CI-ISCE/ISCE Douro, 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Ferraz
- Department of Sport Sciences, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança (IPB), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal;
- Department of Sports Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Joana Ribeiro
- Higher Institute of Educational Sciences of the Douro (ISCE Douro), 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal; (A.B.); (L.B.); (J.R.)
- CI-ISCE/ISCE Douro, 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Pedro Forte
- Higher Institute of Educational Sciences of the Douro (ISCE Douro), 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal; (A.B.); (L.B.); (J.R.)
- CI-ISCE/ISCE Douro, 4560-708 Penafiel, Portugal
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Sport Sciences, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança (IPB), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal;
- Correspondence:
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10
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COVID-19 Lockdown: A Global Study Investigating the Effect of Athletes' Sport Classification and Sex on Training Practices. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:1242-1256. [PMID: 35894967 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0543] [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: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate differences in athletes' knowledge, beliefs, and training practices during COVID-19 lockdowns with reference to sport classification and sex. This work extends an initial descriptive evaluation focusing on athlete classification. METHODS Athletes (12,526; 66% male; 142 countries) completed an online survey (May-July 2020) assessing knowledge, beliefs, and practices toward training. Sports were classified as team sports (45%), endurance (20%), power/technical (10%), combat (9%), aquatic (6%), recreational (4%), racquet (3%), precision (2%), parasports (1%), and others (1%). Further analysis by sex was performed. RESULTS During lockdown, athletes practiced body-weight-based exercises routinely (67% females and 64% males), ranging from 50% (precision) to 78% (parasports). More sport-specific technical skills were performed in combat, parasports, and precision (∼50%) than other sports (∼35%). Most athletes (range: 50% [parasports] to 75% [endurance]) performed cardiorespiratory training (trivial sex differences). Compared to prelockdown, perceived training intensity was reduced by 29% to 41%, depending on sport (largest decline: ∼38% in team sports, unaffected by sex). Some athletes (range: 7%-49%) maintained their training intensity for strength, endurance, speed, plyometric, change-of-direction, and technical training. Athletes who previously trained ≥5 sessions per week reduced their volume (range: 18%-28%) during lockdown. The proportion of athletes (81%) training ≥60 min/session reduced by 31% to 43% during lockdown. Males and females had comparable moderate levels of training knowledge (56% vs 58%) and beliefs/attitudes (54% vs 56%). CONCLUSIONS Changes in athletes' training practices were sport-specific, with few or no sex differences. Team-based sports were generally more susceptible to changes than individual sports. Policy makers should provide athletes with specific training arrangements and educational resources to facilitate remote and/or home-based training during lockdown-type events.
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Postlockdown Performance in French Swimming Championships. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:1196-1204. [PMID: 35690394 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To measure the proportion of French swimmers that progressed, stagnated, or regressed during the 2020 national championship compared with previous ones. METHOD Individual best performances were collected at the French national championships from 2000 to 2020. Yearly proportions of swimmers who improved, stagnated, or regressed in performances were compared with their previous performances. RESULTS In 2020, the proportion of swimmers with performance regression has significantly increased (33% vs 17% in 2019). Women showed a higher proportion of performance regression (41%) than men (26%, P < .0001) in 2020. Only 39% of women and 53% of men experienced progression in 2020 (vs 60.8% [3.7%] and 66.7% [5.2%], respectively, in the previous years). Only the 2008 and 2009 championships showed a regression proportion that did not increase with age. The 2010 championship (the year of swimsuits ban) showed a higher proportion of regressing athletes than these previous years. Long-distance events showed higher proportion of performance regression (36.2% [0.5%]) for 400-, 800-, and 1500-m races than for short-distance ones (32.1% [3.2%]; 50-, 100-, and 200-m events). Breaststroke events showed higher regression (42.4%) than other styles (30.5% [2.1%]). Younger swimmers more often improved their performance than older ones (61.9% [8.5%] for swimmers less than 18 y of age vs 20.0% [10.8%] for those 25 y and older). CONCLUSION A high proportion of swimmers experienced performance regression during the 2020 French national championships. A higher impact was observed among female, long-distance, and breaststroke swimmers. Eight weeks of lockdown without training may have led to poorer swimming performances.
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Cavaggioni L, Rossi A, Tosin M, Scurati R, Michielon G, Alberti G, Merati G, Formenti D, Trecroci A. Changes in Upper-Body Muscular Strength and Power in Paralympic Swimmers: Effects of Training Confinement during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095382. [PMID: 35564778 PMCID: PMC9101705 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this case series was to evaluate the effectiveness of a dry-land home-training program conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic period in Paralympic swimmers. Previous evidence showed the importance of muscular strength and power training for Paralympic swimmers due to the positive relationship between severity of impairment, swimming technique and biomechanics parameters. Specifically, we aimed to analyze: (i) the effects of a customized training regime conducted pre, during and post restrictions on upper-body muscular strength and power (one repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, and mean relative propulsive power) compared to a regular gym-based program; (ii) the associations between mean propulsive velocity and load during two upper body exercises in order to estimate the one repetition maximum. Four elite Paralympic swimmers were retrospectively analyzed in upper-body muscular strength, mean propulsive velocity and mean relative propulsive power in bench press and lat pull-down exercises at three time points: T0 (prior the Lockdown period), T1 (immediately after the Lockdown confinement), T2 (sixteen weeks after returning to gym training). Our findings suggest a very likely decrement in one repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, and mean relative propulsive power during the Lockdown period compared with the T0 period with a subsequent very likely increment in one repetition maximum after returning to gym training (T2) compared with the lockdown period (T0). Conversely, mean relative propulsive power showed an unclear improvement in all athletes in T2 compared with T1. These results were also corroborated by the Friedman’s test followed by the Dunn’s pairwise comparison that mainly showed a decrement from T0 to T1 (p < 0.05). At the same time, it appears that muscle strength and power could be rapidly restored close to the pre-lockdown levels following an adequate training program in the gym, albeit without significance (p > 0.05). Finally, the close relationship between mean propulsive velocity and load in bench press and lat pull-down exercises was also confirmed in para swimming, making a possible estimation of one repetition maximum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cavaggioni
- Obesity Unit—Laboratory of Nutrition and Obesity Research, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20145 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.S.); (G.M.); (G.A.); (A.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessio Rossi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | | | - Raffaele Scurati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.S.); (G.M.); (G.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Giovanni Michielon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.S.); (G.M.); (G.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Giampietro Alberti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.S.); (G.M.); (G.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Giampiero Merati
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (G.M.); (D.F.)
- IRCCS Fondazione don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Damiano Formenti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (G.M.); (D.F.)
| | - Athos Trecroci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.S.); (G.M.); (G.A.); (A.T.)
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Swimming Pool Regulations in the COVID-19 Era: Assessing Acceptability and Compliance in Greek Hotels in Two Consecutive Summer Touristic Periods. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14050796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has urged many countries to issue new regulations to assure safety in pool environments. Greece enforced stricter requirements in 2020 and 2021 for hotel pools. However, even though regulations are important, they can only be effective when accepted by the pool managers and users. The aim of this study was to (a) assess the acceptability of the regulations by hotel managers; (b) assess compliance during the summer touristic periods in 2020 and 2021; and (c) identify challenges during the implementation of the regulations that need to be addressed. Several non-compliances from the regulations were identified. Continuous chlorination with an automatic chlorinator was not a regular practice and suggested water circulation rates were poorly met. The microbiological and chemical testing frequency of the pool water and keeping the number of bathers allowed per surface area in the pool were reported as the most difficult requirements to meet. Most pool managers agreed that new measures contribute to the pool users’ safety; however, they reported increased cost as the main impediment for their implementation. The modernization of regulations governing swimming pools’ function, in terms of risk assessment orientation, will contribute to the adoption of an integrated compliance strategy on emerging health issues, such as COVID-19.
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Demarie S, Chirico E, Galvani C. Prediction and Analysis of Tokyo Olympic Games Swimming Results: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Swimmers' Performance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:2110. [PMID: 35206298 PMCID: PMC8871566 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2019-2020 season, swimming competitions and training have been limited leading to a setback in performances. The study analyzed if, during the subsequent season, swimmers' have been able to regain the lost performance. Swimming time trends were analyzed comparing Tokyo with Rio Olympics and with mathematically predicted results. The gap between the gold medalist and the last finalist, and the differences between men and women have also been considered. Swimming competition results of females and males, in 100 m and 200 m Freestyle and Backstroke, were collected from the Olympics' official website. Results showed that at Tokyo Olympics almost all swimmers' times improved as compared to Rio's. Analysis of performance trends highlighted that performance progression does not proceed in a linear fashion and that is best predicted by more recent results. Women's progression was higher than men's and the gap between the first and last finalist constantly decreased, except for the Tokyo Olympics. In conclusion, the unprecedented Tokyo Olympic Games and qualification year seems not to have disrupted all Olympic swimmers' performance, suggesting that stakeholders support and athlete's coping ability might safeguard the subsistence of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Demarie
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Roma, Italy;
| | - Emanuele Chirico
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Roma, Italy;
| | - Christel Galvani
- Applied Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Milano, Italy;
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15
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The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on swimmers in Poland. BIOMEDICAL HUMAN KINETICS 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/bhk-2022-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study aim: To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health, lifestyle, training loads and competition starts of swimmers in Poland in 2020.
Material and methods: The study was conducted in the form of a questionnaire on group of 123 Polish swimmers in 2020. The survey asked about differences in training, lifestyle and well-being following the introduction of pandemic restrictions. The mean age of the athletes was 23 years ± 7.6 and training experience 10 years ± 5.3.
Results: The majority of swimmers (81%) were satisfied with their health status. Respondents did not experience changes in sleep quality and length during the COVID-19 pandemic. A large proportion of respondents (83%) did not follow a special diet, while they were willing to use supplementation (58.5%). Respondents stated that the pandemic did not affect their physical activity outside of training. The athletes evaluated negatively the changes in training and competition conditions caused by the pandemic (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions: The study showed that the COVID-19 pandemic did not have a major impact on the health, sleep and physical activity of swimmers in Poland in 2020, while it had a negative impact in terms of training conditions and sport competition.
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Keshkar S, Karegar GA. Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sports industry. COVID-19 AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 2022. [PMCID: PMC9335069 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-91307-2.00004-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sport is an important enabler of sustainable development and a cost-effective and flexible tool for development goals. International sports organizations such as International Olympic Committee and national or international sports federations play a significant role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For this, they take extensive and fundamental activities in joint with other international organizations such as the United Nations. But the global outbreak of the COVID-19 virus as the most important crisis of the present era had a profound effect on the performance of sports industry and its contribution to sustainable development. This chapter discusses the role of sport in sustainable development and the achievement of its goals through sport, and also discusses the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on how sport works and changes in the actions of sports organizations to help sustainable development during the pandemic.
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Perez GM, VanSumeren M, Brown M, Hew-Butler T. Pandemic-Induced Reductions on Swim Training Volume and Performance in Collegiate Swimmers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:164. [PMID: 35010423 PMCID: PMC8750307 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant training disruptions during the 2020-2021 season, due to lockdowns, quarantines, and strict adherence to the pandemic protocols. The main purpose of this study was to determine how the pandemic training restrictions affected training volume and performance in one collegiate swim team. Cumulative training volume data across a 28-week season were compared between a pandemic (2020-2021) versus non-pandemic (2019-2020) season. The swimmers were categorized into three groups (sprinters, mid-distance, and long-distance) based on their training group. The performance times of 25 swimmers who competed in the regional championships, during both the non-pandemic and pandemic year, were compared via one-way ANOVA. Twenty-six male and 22 female swimmers commenced the 2020-2021 (pandemic) season, with 23% of the swimmers voluntarily opting out. Three COVID-19 cases were confirmed (2%) by the medical staff, with no long-term effects. Significant reductions in the average swim volume were verified in sprinters (32,867 ± 10,135 vs. 14,800 ± 7995 yards; p < 0.001), mid-distance (26,457 ± 10,692 vs. 17,054 ± 9.923 yards; p < 0.001), and long-distance (37,600 ± 14,430 vs. 22,254 ± 14,418 yards; p < 0.001) swimmers (non-pandemic vs. pandemic season, respectively). In the regional performance analyses, the sprinters swam faster (n = 8; -0.5 ± 0.6 s), while the mid-distance (n = 10; 0.17 ± 2.1 s) and long-distance (n = 7; 6.0 ± 4.9 s) swimmers swam slower (F = 11.76; p = 0.0003; r2 = 0.52). Thus, the pandemic caused significant reductions in swim training volume, with sprinters performing better and long-distance swimmers performing worse at the regional championships.
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18
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Costa MJ, Garrido ND, Marinho DA, Santos CC. How Much the Swimming Performance Leading to Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Was Impaired Due to the Covid-19 Lockdown? J Sports Sci Med 2021; 20:714-720. [PMID: 35321138 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2021.714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the progression and stability in the performance of world-ranked swimmers from 2015 to 2020, and the impairment induced by the COVID-19 lockdown. An observational retrospective design over five consecutive competitive seasons was selected. FINA's male Top-50 who were qualified for the Tokyo Olympic Games were considered in freestyle, backstroke, backstroke, and butterfly events. A total of 515 male swimmers and 2060 season-best performances were analyzed. All data was retrieved from two open-access and public websites (Swimrankings and Swimcloud). Repeated measures ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post-hoc test was performed to analyze the variation between seasons. Stabilization in performance was assessed using spearman correlation coefficients. A significant improvement in performance ≈0.5-2.5% was found in most of the strokes and race distances until the 2018-2019 season. The 2020 lockdown impaired the performance by 1-2%. Moderate to high associations were found in the 2017-2018 season when considering the 2019-2020 performance. The breaststroke was the only stroke with a moderate-high stability (r > 0.40) in all race distances considering the overall time period. It can be concluded that world-ranked swimmers' performance was impaired by 1-2% due to the COVID-19 lockdown, returning to levels that were reached two years earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mário J Costa
- Department of Sport Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, Guarda, Portugal.,Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Nuno D Garrido
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Sport Sciences, Exercise and Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Daniel A Marinho
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Sport Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Catarina C Santos
- Department of Sport Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, Guarda, Portugal.,Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Sport Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
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Csulak E, Petrov Á, Kováts T, Tokodi M, Lakatos B, Kovács A, Staub L, Suhai FI, Szabó EL, Dohy Z, Vágó H, Becker D, Müller V, Sydó N, Merkely B. The Impact of COVID-19 on the Preparation for the Tokyo Olympics: A Comprehensive Performance Assessment of Top Swimmers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9770. [PMID: 34574691 PMCID: PMC8472124 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Olympic preparation of athletes has been highly influenced by COVID and post-COVID syndrome. As the complex screening of athletes is essential for safe and successful sports, we aimed to repeat the 2019-year sports cardiology screening of the Olympic Swim Team before the Olympics and to compare the results of COVID and non-COVID athletes. METHODS Patient history, electrocardiogram, laboratory tests, body composition analysis, echocardiography, cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were performed. We used time-ranking points to compare swimming performance. RESULTS From April 2019, we examined 46 elite swimmers (24 ± 4 years). Fourteen swimmers had COVID infection; all cases were mild. During CPET there was no difference in the performance of COVID (male: VO2 max 55 ± 4 vs. 56.5 ± 5 mL/kg/min, p = 0.53; female: VO2 max 54.6 ± 4 vs. 56 ± 5.5 mL/kg/min, p = 0.86) vs. non-COVID athletes (male VO2 max 56.7 ± 5 vs. 55.5 ± 4.5 mL/kg/min, p = 0.50; female 49.6 ± 3 vs. 50.7 ± 2.6 mL/kg/min, p = 0.47) between 2019 and 2021. When comparing the time results of the National Championships, 54.8% of the athletes showed an improvement (p = 0.75). CONCLUSIONS COVID infection with short-term detraining did not affect the performance of well-trained swimmers. According to our results, the COVID pandemic did not impair the effectiveness of the preparation for the Tokyo Olympics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emese Csulak
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Árpád Petrov
- Hungarian Coaches Association, 1146 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Tímea Kováts
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Márton Tokodi
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Bálint Lakatos
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Attila Kovács
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Ferenc Imre Suhai
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Erzsébet Liliána Szabó
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Zsófia Dohy
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Hajnalka Vágó
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dávid Becker
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
| | - Veronika Müller
- Pulmonology Clinic, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Nóra Sydó
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Béla Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (E.C.); (T.K.); (M.T.); (B.L.); (A.K.); (F.I.S.); (E.L.S.); (Z.D.); (H.V.); (D.B.); (B.M.)
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
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