Is Team Sport the Key to Getting Everybody Active, Every Day? A Systematic Review of Physical Activity Interventions Aimed at Increasing Girls' Participation in Team Sport

Sports and Immunity, from the recreational to the elite athlete

The pivotal role of the immune system in physical activity is well-established. While interactions are complex, they tend to constitute discrete immune responses. Moderate intensity exercise causes leukocytosis with a mild anti-inflammatory cytokine profile and immunoenhancement. Above a threshold of intensity, lactate-mediated IL-6 release causes a proinflammatory state followed by a depressed inflammatory state, which stimulates immune adaptation and longer term cardiometabolic enhancement. Exercise-related immune responses are modulated by sex, age and immunonutrition. At all ability levels, these factors collectively affect the immune balance between enhancement or overload and dysfunction. Excessive training, mental stress or insufficient recovery risks immune cell exhaustion and hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPA) stress responses causing immunodepression with negative impacts on performance or general health. Participation in sport provides additional immune benefits in terms of ensuring regularity, social inclusion, mental well-being and healthier life choices in terms of diet and reduced smoking and alcohol, thereby consolidating healthy lifestyles and longer term health. Significant differences exist between recreational and professional athletes in terms of inherent characteristics, training resilience and additional stresses arising from competition schedules, travel-related infections and stress. Exercise immunology examines the central role of immunity in exercise physiology and straddles multiple disciplines ranging from neuroendocrinology to nutrition and genetics, with the aim of guiding athletes to train optimally and safely. This review provides a brief outline of the main interactions of immunity and exercise, some influencing factors, and current guidance on maintaining immune health.

Assessing gender differences in food preferences and physical activity: a population-based survey

Introduction

Food preferences are influenced by various factors, such as culture, age, and gender. The relationship between food tastes, meal preferences, and eating habits has been studied extensively in recent years; however, research on gender differences in these fields still needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to investigate gender differences in food preferences and eating habits through self-administered questionnaires in a large Italian population sample.

Methods

The online survey included questions on food tastes, meal preferences, eating habits, and sport involvement.

Results

The results of the study underline significant gender-specific dietary tendencies among the 2198 participants (1314 females and 884 males, average age 41.1 ± 12.7 yrs). The majority of subjects were in the annual income range between €20,000 and €40,000. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in dietary preferences and eating habits. Men prefer red and processed meat, with significantly higher consumption rates than women. Women, on the other hand, show a greater inclination towards vegetables, whole grains, tofu, and high-cocoa-content dark chocolate, aligning with healthier food choices. The study also found differences in eating behaviors, including the frequency of meals, snacking habits, and hunger patterns: women tend to eat more frequently and report higher levels of hunger in the morning, while men tend to skip snacks. Furthermore, differences extend to eating contexts, such as the speed of eating, eating out, and eating alone, with men more likely to eat quickly and dine out. Episodes of uncontrolled eating without hunger also differ, with women reporting these behaviors more frequently than men. In addition, the analysis of sports preferences showed distinct patterns, with a lower percentage of women playing sports and those who do play sports preferring endurance and strength training, while men prefer strength training and endurance sports.

Discussion

These findings elucidate the complex interplay of biological, cultural, and gender-based factors in shaping dietary preferences and eating behaviors. In particular, our study reveals that gender dynamics significantly influence food choice and eating habits: women tend to choose healthier foods and eat regular meals, while men show preferences for specific tastes and meal-related behaviors. This analysis underscores the nuanced differences between male and female dietary patterns, influenced not only by inherent biological factors such as genetics and hormonal responses but also by societal norms and cultural contexts. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of integrating different perspectives, thus providing valuable insights into the development of public health strategies and tailored nutrition interventions aimed at chronic disease prevention.

Associations between preference and participation in team sports: Physical activity promotion among adolescents

Background

The level of physical activity (PA) in adolescents is highly dependent on their PA preferences. PA preferences among adolescents are dominated by team PA, mostly team sports (TS). The aim of this study is to identify (a) the status and trends in the preferences of TS among Czech and Polish boys and girls in different educational and sports environments, and (b) the impact of the agreement between the preferred and simultaneously pursued TS on the structure of weekly PA and on the meeting of PA recommendations.

Methods

The research was carried out between 2009 and 2022 in the Czech Republic and Poland and included 2,939 boys and 4,427 girls aged 15-19 years. Preferences and participation in TS were identified using a PA preference questionnaire and weekly PA using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long Form. Trends in TS preferences were analyzed over 27-year periods. The participants were divided into groups by agreement and disagreement between the preferred and pursued TS, and by agreement and disagreement between the preferences of TS and participation in organized TS.

Results

Throughout the 14-year study period, boys in both countries preferred soccer, whereas girls favored volleyball. Agreement between preferences and participation in TS increased vigorous PA in Czech and Polish boys and girls. The agreement between the preferences for TS and participation in organized TS had the most significant effect on increasing vigorous PA in Czech and Polish boys and girls and on total PA in boys in both countries. Those who preferred and participated in TS were more likely to meet PA recommendations.

Conclusion

Respecting the status and trends of TS preferences in supporting participation in TS increases adolescents' PA and their achievement of PA recommendations. Increasing active participation in organized TS among boys and girls may support regular PA and help eliminate the negative effects of the pandemic on adolescents' PA.

Adolescents’ Perceived Barriers to Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, adolescents’ routines were deeply affected, which negatively impacted their level of PA. Knowing the barriers to PA in adolescence is relevant, because the perception of more barriers is one of the most consistent negative correlates of PA participation. The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare the barriers perceived by adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic by sex, education level, PA level, and BMI. A total of 1369 students (621 boys and 748 girls; mean age: 14.4 years; SD: 1.74) participated in the study. The chi-square test was used to analyze the differences between groups. Only 3.1% of the adolescents complied with the international guidelines for PA. In general, the barriers with the highest prevalence were the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of time, and taking time away from study. The number of perceived barriers to PA was higher among girls, younger, and inactive participants. Boys selected more the barriers due to COVID-19 than girls, and students with normal weight chose more barriers than those with overweight. This study provides information on adolescents’ PA barriers during the COVID-19 pandemic and draws attention to the negative effects that restrictive measures have had on adolescents’ PA levels.

The Differences in Physical Activity Preferences and Practices among High versus Low Active Adolescents in Secondary Schools

This study aimed to (a) identify the differences in the preferred, practiced, and organized physical activity (PA) between high and low physically active Czech and Polish boys and girls and to (b) identify which types of PA are likely to be recommended by low active boys and girls. The research was carried out between 2010 and 2019 in the Czech Republic and Poland and included 6619 participants aged 15 to 19 years. The preferences and practices of the different types of PA and participation in organized PA were identified using a PA preference questionnaire and weekly PA was identified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-long form. Czech and Polish boys and girls who were low active preferred less physically demanding and more health-oriented PA compared with high active individuals. Power exercises and participation in organized PA are the most significant predictors of achieving at least 3 × 20 min of vigorous PA per week among low active individuals in both countries. Monitoring the trends in the preferred and practiced types of PA among boys and girls is crucial for the effective promotion of PA to low active boys and girls and positive changes in physical education and school health policy.

Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity Participation in Adolescent Girls: A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews

Background: Persistent low physical activity (PA) levels among adolescent girls constitute a public health concern that calls for immediate and evidence-based policy action. This systematic review (SR) aimed to summarize evidence from SRs examining the barriers and facilitators of PA participation in adolescent girls. The objectives were to provide a synthesis of the available evidence and identify key areas for fostering gender-responsive action and policy implications. Methods: A comprehensive search of relevant SR and meta-analyses were performed in PubMed and Cochrane Library, until February 2021. Studies were included if they were SRs or meta-analyses, included adolescent girls aged between 10 and 19 years, and described barriers or facilitators of PA. Two independent authors performed the screening of potentially eligible studies and both assessed the methodological quality of included studies using the AMSTAR 2 tool. The barriers and facilitators were synthesized at environmental, interpersonal, and individual levels. Results: A total of eight SRs were included in the qualitative synthesis. The most frequent barriers identified were the lack of support from peers, family, and teachers, and the lack of time. The most reported facilitators were weight loss, and support from peers, family, and teachers. Key areas for action and policy implementation include an inclusive approach to curriculum development to address gender norms; adequate training of professionals so they have a range of skills to ensure inclusion of adolescent girls; environmental changes in and out of schools to stimulate participation, to allow adolescent girls to be active in a safe and attractive environment; multistakeholder support at local, regional, and national level in incorporating a gender-responsive approach toward PA participation. Conclusion: The results highlight a variety of factors that influences the PA participation of adolescent girls. For the attainment of effective policies that increase PA levels in adolescent girls, it is essential to engage several stakeholders at different levels in incorporating a gender-responsive approach toward PA participation. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42020204023.

Sport Injuries among Amateur Women and Young Intermediate Level Female Handball Players: A Preliminary Investigation

Background and objectives: Handball is a popular sport among women whose practice can lead to marked health benefits but could also show a high injury risk. There is a lack of research on intermediate level female players. We aimed to identify the prevalence of sport injuries in amateur and young intermediate level female handball players and the potential influence of the sport category. Materials and Methods: A group of cadets, juvenile and senior female players of three handball clubs participating in the Spanish regional league were followed throughout the 2018–2019 season. Information on injuries and exposure was collected via questionnaires. Results: Out of 114 players (34 seniors, 33 juvenile and 47 cadets), 77 of them sustained at least one injury. Most of the injuries were either moderate or severe, regardless of the category. A total of 7.93, 5.93 and 4.16 injuries per 1000 h of exposure were registered in the senior, juvenile and cadet categories respectively. The risk of sustaining an injury was 2.14 times higher for senior players Confidence Interval (CI 95%: 1.51–3.03) and 1.92 higher for juvenile players (CI 95%: 1.32–2.78) when compared with cadets. Conclusions: Senior and young female handball athletes playing at an amateur and intermediate level, are exposed to a substantial risk of sustaining a moderate or severe injury. The players’ category does not seem to have a great impact on the injury rate and on the characteristics of the sport injuries registered.

Sibling influence on children's objectively measured physical activity: a meta-analysis and systematic review

Abstract

Children without siblings (only children) have higher rates of obesity than children with siblings. Childhood obesity may be prevented by minimising sedentary behaviour and accumulating sufficient physical activity in young children. A growing number of articles have examined the influence of siblings on physical activity and sedentary behaviour, yet these articles have not been synthesised.

Objective

To synthesise literature and describe the influence of siblings on objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour of children (ages 2–18 years).

Design

Outcomes were analysed in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Medline OVID were searched for articles related to siblings, physical activity, sedentary behaviour and obesity outcomes from 1947 to March 2018.

Eligibility criteria

Articles that evaluated sibling status on physical activity objectively measured by accelerometer or pedometer were included.

Results

Nineteen articles, representing 17 independent datasets, were included in the review. Nine were included in the quantitative analysis. Pooled data from nine articles indicated children with siblings had higher moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) relative to only children, with a potential dose response for higher number of children in household and higher MVPA (Mean Difference=3.13, 95% CI 1.90 to 4.35, p=0.001). Findings were mixed for the influence of siblings on sedentary behaviour and light physical activity.

Summary/Conclusion

Children with siblings had healthier physical activity patterns, as measured by accelerometer or pedometer, than did only children. Suggested mechanisms include peer modelling, encouraging active transport and sports participation, opportunity for playmate and serving as additional caregivers.

Trial registration number

CRD42017055463.