Lecturas: Educación Física y Deportes

Title Contenders: Toluca, América, and Cruz Azul Lead the Predictions in the Mexican Apertura

Pedro Claro — 2025-11-08

With the end of the regular season of the Apertura tournament in Mexico approaching, the favorites to win the title are being determined based on each team's level, experience, and current form. Predictions point to three strong contenders with nearly identical chances: Toluca (Clausura 2025 champion and very solid), América (all-time leading title holder), and Cruz Azul (seeking its first title under the new format). Monterrey and Tigres are considered dark horses or secondary contenders, with similar odds. Monterrey, which signed Sergio Ramos, won its last title in 2020. Tigres, meanwhile, is looking to lift its first trophy in this competition. The two-legged playoff format in the Liguilla makes any prediction difficult.

In Hockey, Goalkeepers Read Shots Based on Stick Position

Emilio Arrung — 2025-11-02

For a hockey goalkeeper, the key is not reacting to the puck, but anticipating the shooter's intention. They analyze the stick's position 0.3-0.5 seconds before impact. The puck travels at speeds of up to 160 km/h, covering the distance in 0.4 seconds, while the goalkeeper's reaction time is around 200 milliseconds. The reading is based on the approach speed, hand position, hip rotation, and stick angle. Cues such as blade position and body tilt predict the height and direction of the shot. Around 60% of goals come from predictable positions. Experienced goalkeepers transform this analysis into instinct, predicting the shot and achieving up to 27% more saves.

Plantar Support in Youth Soccer Players. Morphofunctional Implications for Injury Prevention

Raúl Barcelo Reyna — 2025-11-02

This study aimed to characterize plantar support in a sample of youth soccer players from the province of Las Tunas, Cuba, as part of a prophylactic strategy to reduce injury risk. A quantitative, descriptive methodology was employed with a sample of 16 players. Plantar support was assessed using the Hernández Corvo index. The results revealed a high prevalence of cavus foot (moderate to severe), more frequently in the left foot, along with a significant proportion of bilateral asymmetries between both feet. These findings suggest a structural predisposition that could negatively affect technical performance and musculoskeletal health in athletes. It is concluded that systematic evaluation of plantar support should be integrated into the sports training process to reduce the risk of postural dysfunction and overuse injuries. Personalized interventions and multidisciplinary follow-up are also recommended. This study provides relevant evidence for the design of prophylactic strategies in youth soccer.

Active Mobility on the School Route

Livia Alessandra de Carvalho Teles — 2025-11-02

This article reflects on the active mobility of children on the school journey, relating the weekly travel time with gender, social class and vehicle ownership. The study is based on exploratory research, with a quantitative and cross-sectional design. 257 children in the 5th year of elementary school from the municipal education network of Anápolis (GO) participated in the research. A questionnaire was applied with sociodemographic questions and aspects related to active mobility during school. Active mobility during school was practiced by 71.2% of children; contributing, on average 73 minutes of weekly physical activity. Children from a lower social class and without a vehicle spend significantly more time actively commuting; and 80% of all children reported that they like or would like to do this practice. It can be concluded that active mobility on the school journey is a relevant practice for achieving the recommendations for physical activity in children, also favoring other health factors. The school can be an important ally in promoting active mobility as a pleasant, safe and healthy experience, using strategies that reduce barriers and strengthen the facilitators of this practice.

Lymphocyte Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress Following Short-Term Beach Volleyball Competition in Elite Athletes

Amanda Christina Gonçalves do Carmo Gouveia — 2025-11-02

Continuous, strenuous, and prolonged exercise has a well-documented impact on the immune system. This study aimed to verify whether beach volleyball can cause lymphocyte apoptosis and a concomitant increase in oxidative stress. Apoptotic leukocyte cells with FITC-labeled anti-annexin V antibodies and the detection of nuclear propidium iodide, the availability of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) through the oxidation of 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, and the total concentration of antioxidants by the iron reduction antioxidant power assay, before and after a short beach volleyball tournament with 20 elite athletes, were evaluated. The median and interquartile range of H₂O₂ in arbitrary units increased from 2886 before competition to 10402 after competition for female group, and from 2711 to 11154, for male group. The percentage of apoptosis-positive cells increased from 0.7 to 3.9 for female group and from 0.7 to 4.0 for male group. The total concentration of antioxidants did not change, while HDL cholesterol increased in both groups at the end of the competition. Concomitant apoptosis and increased H₂O₂ production in lymphocytes suggest oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. Antioxidant defense is not activated immediately to restore the redox balance of immune cells, while improved lipid profile suggests antioxidant protection for blood vessels.

Dual Pathways: Between Secondary Schooling and High-Performance Sport in Adolescent Athletes

Laura Alejandra Coria — 2025-11-02

The articulation between secondary schooling and high-performance sport remains a persistent challenge in Latin American educational systems. This research, developed as part of a master's thesis, analyzes the dual pathways of adolescent athletes who participated in international competitions, exploring the strategies they deploy to sustain their educational trajectories and the institutional responses that enable or hinder such compatibility. Using a qualitative hermeneutic approach, the study employed semi-structured interviews, open-ended surveys, and document analysis, triangulating sources to strengthen interpretive validity. Fieldwork included all Argentine athletes that represented the Argentine Olympic Committee for the Youth Olympic Games Singapore 2010, representing one of the first empirical approaches to this phenomenon. Later methodological references are incorporated to contrast approaches and reaffirm the relevance of the issues addressed. The findings reveal structural tensions, subjective decisions, and institutional conditions shaping dual pathways, contributing to the development of inclusive educational policies and inter-institutional dialogue.

Beyond the Track: Inclusive Sport as a Bridge to Equality, Hope, and Social Transformation

Daniel Paglilla Ham — 2025-11-02

Inclusive physical activity has become a topic of growing interest due to its multiple benefits for people with disabilities. In the case of Down syndrome, participation in physical activity programs promotes motor development, socialization, and emotional well-being. This study aims to analyze the benefits of physical activity in people with Down syndrome through a systematic literature review. Previous studies addressing the impact of exercise on this population were collected and analyzed, identifying positive effects on autonomy, self-esteem, and quality of life. Despite these advantages, barriers to accessibility and the implementation of adequate programs persist. The research suggests the need to promote inclusive strategies that encourage the active participation of people with Down syndrome in adapted physical activities.

School, Older Adults, and Physical Education. What Does the Scientific Literature Reveal?

Rafael dos Santos Ignácio — 2025-11-02

This study aimed to identify research addressing the theme of aging and old age within the school context and in Physical Education. It is an integrative literature review conducted through the CAPES/MEC Journals Portal and Google Scholar, using the following descriptors: school, elderly, Physical Education, and intergenerationality. Eight studies published between 2013 and 2022 were selected, highlighting a recent and still incipient body of work on the subject. The studies present an interdisciplinary character, with greater incidence in the fields of Health -especially Gerontology, Nursing, and Psychology- and contributions from Pedagogy, Sociology, and Anthropology. Among the main thematic axes investigated are: attitudes, beliefs, representations, and social practices regarding old age and the elderly; teacher education and the development of pedagogical materials; and intergenerational practices. The analyzed studies point to the persistence of prejudice against old age and the need to include gerontological education in school curricula, in a transversal way, in order to promote a culture of respect, appreciation, and coexistence between generations. It was also observed that there are no specific productions in the field of Physical Education, despite the area’s potential to articulate bodily practices and critical reflections on aging. This gap reinforces the need to expand research and deepen the discussion from the perspective of Physical Education teachers, contributing to a more inclusive and aware school in the face of population aging.

Relationship between Pre-Competitive Anxiety, Age and Experience in artistic Swimming Athletes

Loane Ady Chiaretto Tigrinho — 2025-11-02

Introduction: Artistic swimming is an aquatic sport that combines swimming skills with elements of dance and gymnastics, making it a challenging artistically demanding sport. As a result, many athletes suffer from anxiety in the moments leading up to their competition, known as pre-competitive anxiety. Objective: To analyze the level of pre-competitive anxiety in artistic swimming competitions. Methods: Twenty-six artistic swimming athletes of both sexes (17 ± 4.92 years old and 7 ± 5.17 years of competitive experience) participated in the study. To measure the level of anxiety, the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory questionnaire, translated and validated into Portuguese, was applied just before participating in a Paraná championship (October 2023) or the Brazilian Championship (June 2024). The instrument consists of 16 questions, with answers ranging from 1 to 4 and a return window for cognitive anxiety and self-confidence of 5 to 20, and 6 to 24 for somatic anxiety. Results: The mean score for cognitive anxiety was 14.08 (±3.58); somatic anxiety 14.81 (±4.56) and self-confidence 13.31 (±3.32). Thus, the results demonstrate that the athletes reported levels slightly above average for cognitive anxiety and self-confidence and close to average for somatic anxiety. Conclusion: Knowledge of this information is essential as a subsidy in the promotion of strategies to manage cognitive and somatic anxiety, as well as the promotion of ideal levels of self-confidence to optimize the performance of the artistic swim.

Tactical Interventions Aimed at the Cognitive-Decisional Development of the Handball Central Player in the Offensive Phase

Rogelio García Bulgar — 2025-11-02

The theoretical background of the offensive tactical behavior of handball in Cuba demons-trates that this process is based on traditional conceptions, therefore, it is necessary to reorient it, in accordance with the current expectations of the competitive context. The objective of the study is to propose offensive tactical exercises aimed at enhancing decision-making in the central handball player in the 13-15 year old category. For the research, the 10 field players of the 13-15 year old female category handball team from the “Rafael Freyre Torres” Sports Integration School in Guantánamo were selected. Likewise, seven professionals make up the sample, four belong to the technical direction of the team, plus two methodologists and the provincial technical leader, who were selected through the unintentional probabilistic sampling method. The research arises from the need to respond to technological demand number 3 of the provincial commission of this sport in the Guantanamo territory, as well as resolve the claim of the handball scientific community that advocates promoting offensive tactical exercises aimed at improving decision making. The starting point is the diagnosis of the current state containing empirical scientific methods such as document analysis, observation and surveys. Conclusively, the triangulation of the empirical methods used corro- borate the feasibility of implementing the proposed exercises.

Exergames as a Methodological Aspect in the Physical Education Class

Eric López Villalba — 2025-11-02

One of the causes of sedentary lifestyles among children is that their leisure time has been drawn into an investment in screen-based activities. Video gaming is now a universal tool among young people. However, these technologies can also be used to promote active lifestyles based on the practice of physical activity. Therefore, this study aims to identify the effect of the application of videogaming regarding familiarization, satisfaction and belief of feasibility of using these exergames in the physical education class by the students. Thus, the pre-experimental method of this research subjected 14 participants in the third cycle of primary education to a physical activity test using a virtual reality platform and, subsequently, they answered questionnaires on the aforementioned aspects. The results showed a high percentage of unfamiliarity with exergames (51%), a high percentage of satisfaction with the practice of physical activity using the platform (83%) and a high percentage of feasibility of its use in physical education (77.75%). It was concluded that in the child population, active video games have a promising margin of attractiveness, an association with pleasant entertainment sensations and a notable acceptance for the improvement of healthy habits in future generations.

Verbal, Body Expression, and Numerical Language: An Integrated Approach to School Learning

Marina Victoria García Samaniego — 2025-11-02

The present article proposes an interdisciplinary educational approach that integrates verbal language, body expression, and mathematical thinking as key pillars for more meaningful school learning, the development of multiple skills and the integration of knowledge from an interdisciplinary perspective. By connecting Language Arts, Mathematics, and Physical Education, the approach aims to enhance not only cognitive development but also students’ communication, motor, and logical-mathematical skills. It presents educational experiences that combine play, storytelling, body movement, and problem-solving, promoting active, creative, and contextualized teaching. The proposal highlights the role of the body in learning processes and the importance of moving beyond fragmented views of knowledge. This integrated perspective supports a more inclusive and dynamic education where students learn through the interaction of mind, body, and language. The objective of this systematic review looks for demonstrating how the integration of these three areas can enrich the teaching and learning process in school settings.

Effect of Aquatic Gym Associated with Flexibility Training and does not Control Postural Movements

Elciana de Paiva Lima Vieira — 2025-11-02

Introduction: The aging process involves many changes that can increase the risk of falls. Among the risk factors, changes in postural control and loss of flexibility are likely related. Objective: To analyze the effect of flexibility training associated with aquatic gym on postural control and joint range of motion in elderly women. Methodology: 46 elderly women were divided into 2 groups: 25 women participated in flexibility training in addition to aquatic gym (IG), and 21 performed only aquatic gym (CG). Postural control was assessed by measuring center of pressure (CoP) oscillations and maximum joint range of motion with a goniometer. Results: According to the analysis of comparisons of the variables measured between the groups using the Student's t-test, the IG did not present significant changes in postural control. The CG demonstrated a substantial reduction in mean velocity (p=0.03) and total displacement of the COP in the mediolateral axis (CoPy) (p=0.04). The IG significantly increased the maximum joint range of motion in the hip and ankle joints. The CG showed a significant reduction in the mean velocity (p=0.03) and total displacement of the CoP in the anteroposterior axis (p=0.04). The IG increased the range of motion in the hip and ankle joints. Conclusion: Therefore, associated training contributes to the improvement of the range of motion in the hip and ankle joints. Furthermore, the isolated practice of aquatic gym contributes to the improvement of postural control in elderly women.

Low Sponsorship, Poor Profitability and a Sports Anti-Hero. Boxing in Costa Rica (1949-1975)

Chester Rodolfo Urbina Gaitán — 2025-11-02

This article aims to study the development of boxing in Costa Rica from 1949 to 1975. It delves into the study of the main boxers, the venues where they fought, and their major sporting triumphs both within and outside the country, providing an insight into the sporting level of Costa Rican boxing during the years of study. Biographical books were used to better understand the boxing environment of the time. Brecha magazine was consulted to analyze the treatment of the boxer Jesús "Tuzo" Portuguez's sporting career and his presentation as a sporting antihero. During the years of study, the sporting level of Costa Rican boxing was poor due to the failure to win world titles or at the 1968 Olympic Games. This is confirmed by an analysis of the performance of national boxing medalists in official tournaments of the International Amateur Boxing Association. This situation stems from the lack of state and private support and the low profitability of the boxing spectacle for business owners and fight organizers. The only exception was the case of Jesús “Tuzo” Portuguez, who managed to have a successful career at the national and Central American levels.

Implementation of Inclusion Policies in Physical Education Classes in Chile

Belen Fierro — 2025-11-02

The implementation of current national regulations in Chile, specifically Decree 83, promotes educational inclusion in the country's school settings and is aimed at all subjects in the national curriculum. However, its practical application in Physical Education classes has been poorly studied. This qualitative research aimed to explore the perceptions of physical Education Teachers (12) about the practical implementation of national guidelines that promote educational inclusion in Chilean school contexts. Through semi-structured interviews in three schools in Chile, the main assessments and experiences regarding the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities presented in practice by the implementation of current regulations were analyzed. The findings reveal that Physical Education teachers are aware of the curriculum guidelines and the possibility of flexible teaching strategies, but significant systemic challenges remain. Among them, attitudes toward diversity and the urgency to strengthen initial teacher training and specific continuous teacher training in Physical Education for inclusion are factors that greatly strain the practical application of the standard. Finally, the implementation of national regulations is a multifactorial process that requires contextualized support and cultural changes specific to the subject to achieve genuine educational inclusion.

Stimulation of Balance in Children Aged 4 to 6 Using the Didactic Beam

Antonio Enrique Campo Peña — 2025-11-02

The present study aims to design and implement a set of methodological strategies centered on the use of the balance beam as a teaching tool, aimed at stimulating the development of this motor skill during early childhood. Initially, it sought to describe the current state of balance in infants, with the purpose of identifying causes that justify the present condition of balance. The methods used were: a non-experimental cross-sectional design, non-participant observation, and a quantitative approach. The population consisted of 290 students, with a study sample of 125 children, selected through systematic probabilistic sampling. The research subjects were administered the initial MACB-2 test. Data analysis revealed that 70% of the population exhibited low to basic performance in balance. The current study confirmed that balance is an important motor skill in a child's development and that it should be stimulated from early ages to ensure proper development.

How VPNs Protect your Financial Data when Shopping or Banking Online

Pedro Claro — 2025-10-28

The rise of online shopping and banking has increased the exposure of financial data, with a 30% increase in attempted digital fraud in 2024, according to Febraban. Information such as CPF (Brazilian Social Security Number), passwords, and card numbers is extremely valuable, making digital security a constant challenge. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is emerging as an essential layer of protection. By creating an encrypted tunnel (such as VeePN's 256-bit encryption) between your device and the internet, it prevents cyberattacks from intercepting data in a readable form, even on insecure public connections. Using a VPN protects against identity theft and data leaks, strengthens anonymity by masking your IP address, and prevents tracking, complementing the security of banks and stores. With more than 5 million attempted digital financial scams annually in Brazil, investing in a reliable VPN is an increasingly recommended security measure to enjoy digital convenience with peace of mind.

When Chance Decides: The Role of Coin Flipping in Sports

Sara Domínguez — 2025-10-28

Coin flipping, originating in ancient Rome, is a traditional game that remains a simple and fair method for making decisions in sports (soccer, football, volleyball, etc.). It involves tossing a coin to fairly determine aspects such as initial possession, the side of the court, or who starts in penalty kicks. Although it is a random event, studies suggest that winning the toss may slightly increase the odds of winning (2.8% in cricket), and in penalty shootouts, the winning team chooses to start or not, winning in 60% of cases. However, there is no evidence that it determines the outcome of the match. Furthermore, it has become a popular betting market. Interestingly, the actual probability of it landing on the starting side is slightly over 50%. Coin flipping is a random event with little real long-term effect, but it injects confidence and entertainment.

Unforgettable Comebacks in Tennis: Five Duels that Defied All Logic

Diana Gujer — 2025-10-26

In tennis, character defines true champions, proving that talent alone is not enough without great determination. Great comebacks, when they overturn critical situations, offer the most intense and memorable moments in the sport. This article recalls five historic duels: Andy Murray vs. Fernando Verdasco (Wimbledon 2013): Murray rallied from 0-2 down in sets to win in five sets and continue his journey to the title. Rafael Nadal vs. Daniil Medvedev (Australian Open 2022): Nadal, trailing 0-2, staged an epic comeback at 35 years of age to claim his 21st Grand Slam title. Andre Agassi vs. Andrei Medvedev (Roland Garros 1999): Agassi recovered after losing the first two sets to complete the career Grand Slam. Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer (2008 Wimbledon): Nadal prevailed in a nearly five-hour, rain-interrupted final, winning 9-7 in the fifth set. Pete Sampras vs. Jim Courier (1995 Australian Open): Sampras overcame a 0-2 deficit in sets and profound sadness due to his coach's illness, triumphing in five sets.

The Impact of Digital Minimalism on Modern Sport

Emilio Arrung — 2025-10-16

Technology has transformed sport, from performance monitoring to training optimization. However, digital minimalism emerged as a response to information overload. This approach promotes the conscious and strategic use of technology, helping athletes focus on the essentials and maximize their potential. It is crucial for athletes' mental health, as it reduces social media noise and media pressure, allowing for a healthier balance. Coaches benefit by focusing on athlete development rather than excessive data, balancing technology and intuition. By better managing online time, professional athletes can let their performance speak for itself, creating authentic connections with their fans. In conclusion, digital minimalism offers a new perspective: a balanced approach where technology complements, rather than complicates, the sporting process, improving performance and well-being.

Mood States before and after a Soccer of Travinha Game in Healthy Men

Juarez Serpa Junior — 2025-10-01

The aim of this study was to analyze mood states before and after the game of Soccer of Travinha in healthy men. The sample consisted of 18 healthy men aged between 18 and 30. The entire session on the day of the soccer game lasted ≅ 90 minutes. The soccer game was played on a court measuring 28 meters long by 15 meters wide and the goals were 1.20 meters wide by 0.80 meters high. An official futsal ball was used for the game and the match was played by two teams made up of three players each. The game was played in two 10-minute periods with a 10-minute break between periods. To play the soccer game, the participants were divided into 6 teams of 3 players and then answered the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) before the game. Then the game started and after the game had finished the participants answered the Brums scale immediately after the game and 60 minutes after the soccer match. It was observed that there was a significant increase in the perception of tension and fatigue and a significant reduction in the perception of vigor immediately after the soccer game (p< 0.05). We conclude that there was a negative change acute in the mood states of the participants after the soccer game, however, 1 hour after the game the mood states returned to pre-game levels.

Cardiometabolic Disorders in People Living with HIV in the Interior of the Amazon, Brazil

Luiz Fernando Gouvea-e-Silva — 2025-10-01

Introduction: HIV infection, combined with antiretroviral therapy (ART), predisposes people living with HIV (PLHIV) to develop metabolic changes, changes in body fat distribution and increased cardiovascular risk (CVR). Objective: To analyze the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS), dyslipidemia, lipodystrophy, and CVR with the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of PLHIV in the interior of the Amazon, Brazil. Methods: Cross-sectional study, composed of 115 PLHIV, treated at a Specialized Outpatient Clinic. Sociodemographic, clinical, laboratory, body composition information was sought, as well as the presence of MetS, dyslipidemia, lipodystrophy and CVR. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, adopting p<0.05. Results: Males predominated (59.1%), as well as dyslipidemia (81.7%). It was observed that 22.6% of PLHIV had MetS, 37.4% had lipodystrophy and 8.7% had moderate CVR. Age ≥40 years was associated with MetS and lipodystrophy; and longer duration of ART use was associated with lipodystrophy (p<0.05). Smoking and lipodystrophy were associated with moderate CVR (p<0.05). Altered values for abdominal circumference, glucose, LDL-c, HDL-c, body mass index and blood pressure were associated with MetS (p<0.05). Conclusion: According to the data, the high frequency of PLHIV with dyslipidemia, lipodystrophy and MetS is worrying, as is the relationship between MS and lipodystrophy and moderate CVR. Thus, the need for continuous monitoring and assertive interventions to prevent the onset or worsening of cardiometabolic diseases in this population is highlighted.

Noninvasive Ventilation in Aerobic Training of Patients with Heart Failure

Maiara Fuhrmann — 2025-10-01

Introduction: Heart failure causes dyspnea and fatigue, and cardiac rehabilitation is one of the alternatives to improve functionality. Aerobic training is an effective therapeutic option, and noninvasive ventilation also demonstrates good results. Objective: To analyze the effect of aerobic training combined with noninvasive ventilation on the functional capacity of patients with heart failure. Method: This is a before-and-after analytical intervention study. The intervention consisted of combining aerobic training with continuous airway ventilation twice a week for 12 weeks. The outcome variables evaluated were the distance covered in the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the number of repetitions in the one-minute sit-to-stand test (1MST). Results: The sample was predominantly male (n=4/80%), with a mean age of 59.29±16.97 years. The distance covered in the 6MWT increased, non-significantly, from 363±172.61 meters to 487.25±102.01 meters after rehabilitation (p=0.068). The 1min SRT increased from 16.20±4.97 repetitions to 22±1.58 repetitions after rehabilitation (p=0.043). Conclusion: Cardiac rehabilitation, involving aerobic training combined with the use of non-invasive ventilation, promoted improvements in the functional capacity of patients with heart failure.

Conception of Healthy Living: A Study with Religious Leaders

Giselly dos Santos Holanda de Oliveira — 2025-10-01

The study sought to understand the concept of healthy living from the perspective of leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This was field research with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and content analysis was used for analysis. It was emphasized that Church members must take responsibility for various areas of life, including health, which is understood holistically, thus requiring physical, moral, and spiritual care. The results revealed that the Church encourages the adoption of a healthy lifestyle that includes obedience to commandments such as the Law of Chastity (safe sexual practices, respect for the body); the Law of the Fast (prayer, spiritual strength, altruism); the Word of Wisdom (abstaining from addictive and harmful substances; guidelines for a balanced diet); and encourages regular physical exercise, combined with rest and adequate sleep. By promoting an active lifestyle, the Church offers social support for physical activity, providing facilities, materials, and organizing sporting events. In general, most of the concepts presented by the leaders are consistent with the literature, summarizing the ideal of a healthy life in a comprehensive manner. Therefore, it can be concluded that this religious institution advocates for its members to have healthier lives, thus associating a healthy life with religious values.

Influence of Hamstring Stretching on Soccer Injury Prevention: A Systematic Review

Jean Claude Lafetá — 2025-10-01

Hamstring injuries are common in soccer. It is common to warm up with stretching exercises before playing sports for preventive purposes. However, there are divergences regarding their benefits. This study aimed to review the main findings on the effects of hamstring stretching in preventing soccer injuries. This is a systematic review that gathered scientific articles from the electronic databases PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Science and Scopus. The articles selected in English had the following descriptors: “stretching”, “hamstring”, “prevention” and “soccer”. Prospective studies (clinical trials and cohort studies) that addressed the effects of stretching in preventing injuries in soccer players of both sexes, without date restrictions, were considered. Titles and abstracts were analyzed, duplicate records were excluded and full texts were read, with exclusion of articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria. In total, 123 studies were found and after the entire selection process, two studies were selected. One of the selected studies showed that the program that emphasized stretching exercises had a positive effect on the time to return to sports practice in athletes with hamstring injuries, when compared to another program with less emphasis on stretching, but there was no control group. In the other study analyzed, no significant differences were found in the incidence of hamstring strains with flexibility training. It is concluded that the evidence is limited and inconclusive for this topic, deserving future investigations.

The Impact of Technologies on the Promotion of Physical Activity. A Narrative Review

Erick Santana de Souza — 2025-10-01

Introduction: Technological advances have impacted several areas, including health and physical activity promotion. However, few reviews summarize these effects. Objective: To review studies that analyze the impact of new technologies on promoting physical activity. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted on Google Scholar, considering articles published in the last 15 years. Descriptors such as "Technology" and "Physical Activity" were used. After the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 studies were selected. Results: The technologies applied to the promotion of physical activity were categorized into three main axes: (1) guidance and monitoring of controls, allowing personalization of workouts, remote monitoring, and monitoring of physiological solutions; (2) gamification and social interaction, encouraging adherence through interactive games and social networks that stimulate engagement; and (3) rehabilitation and active aging, with innovations that assist in motor recovery and maintenance of mobility in the elderly. Conclusion: Technology has contributed significantly to the adherence and maintenance of physical activity, although challenges such as inequalities in access and increased sedentary lifestyle need to be addressed.

Family Perception of Physical Activities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: Barriers and Facilitators

Marcele Sachete Dorneles — 2025-10-01

The practice of physical activity is recommended for the entire population, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. However, when considering certain groups, such as people with disabilities, the path to access is often filled with difficulties. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the barriers and facilitators to the practice of physical activities, based on the perception of family members by individuals with intellectual disabilities. The sample consisted of family members of participants in an extension project. An identification data sheet and a questionnaire adapted were used to analyze the reasons for not engaging in physical activity and the factors that do not hinder its practice. The results indicated that bad mood, lack of interest, lack of physical skills, and limited financial resources are barriers to physical activity. In contrast, factors such as work schedule, family commitments, household chores, lack of encouragement from family and/or friends, lack of financial resources, mild pain or discomfort, and lack of energy were cited as facilitators, meaning they do not hinder the practice of physical activities. Therefore, it is concluded that barriers and facilitators manifest in daily life, influencing and impacting the quality of life and health of people with disabilities. However, understanding these factors and seeking alternatives to minimize them require specific strategies for building a more inclusive society.

Effects of Practicing MuayThai on the Physical Capabilities and Behavioral Aspects of Women

Anna Victoria Almeida Viana Campello — 2025-10-01

Introduction: MuayThai is a combat sport that involves body movements, concentration techniques and its own philosophies, and is still rarely practiced by women. Objective: To verify the effects of MuayThai practice on physical abilities and behavioral aspects in women. Methods: Quasi-experimental study, characterized by intervention with MuayThai in a group of healthy adult women. Abdominal muscle endurance (maximum repetitions in one minute), flexibility of the posterior muscle chain (sit and reach test), body image (Body Image Scale) and behaviors and risk factors associated with the onset of pain (BackPEI-A questionnaire) were evaluated. Descriptive statistical analysis and inferential statistical analysis (t-test and paired sample chi-square test, McNemar test, p<0.05) were performed. Results: The sample consisted of nine women (age=21.6±1.67 years; body mass=66.4±15.1 kg; height=1.64±0.06 m). There was a significant difference in abdominal muscle resistance related to scalar (t(8)=-3.615, p=0.007, Cohen's d=0.042) and classificatory values (χ2(9)=17.100, p=0.047; Cramer's V=0.796). There was no significant difference for the flexibility of the posterior muscle chain ((t (8) =1.523, p=0.166, Cohen's d=-0.39); (χ2(9)=6.750, p=0.345; Cramer's V=0.612)). Regarding the risk factors that predispose to the onset of pain, a worsening was observed (t (8)=1.414, p=0.195, Cohen's d=-0.48). Conclusion: The practice of MuayThai, performed twice a week for approximately two months, was able to have a significant effect on improving abdominal muscle resistance. However, in other variables related to physical capacities and behavioral aspects, it did not present contributions.

Origins of Sailing, Water Skiing, Canoeing, Rafting, Surfing, and Kayaking in Costa Rica (1900-1999)

Chester Rodolfo Urbina Gaitán — 2025-10-01

The objective of this article is to study the historical evolution of sailing, water skiing, canoeing, rafting, surfing, and kayaking in Costa Rica between 1900 and 1999, based on newspaper records. This was done through data provided by the commercial press. Emphasis was placed on the places where these sports were practiced, the initiators of these sports, their promotion, and state support. The meager state support and the high cost of practicing them made these sports accessible only to the privileged sectors. This situation resulted in a low level of international competitiveness. The limited state intervention in the development and control of the aforementioned sports allowed entrepreneurs and associations linked to these activities to focus solely on their commercial exploitation. They were unconcerned about environmental preservation in the areas where they were practiced. This is evident in the case of surfing.

Analysis of Physical and Technical Indicators in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League

Cristian Marino Murillo García — 2025-10-01

Performance analysis in soccer has undergone a remarkable evolution, moving from approaches focused on physical or tactical variables to more multidimensional approaches that seek to understand the relationship between the different demands of the game. From this perspective, variables such as goals scored, ball possession and total distance traveled are essential to evaluate collective behavior, the objective of this study was to analyze the behavior of physical and technical-tactical indicators of the UEFA Champions League, a quantitative study was carried out, non-experimental, cross-sectional and correlational-comparative design, aimed at identifying the association of physical and technical variables and the performance of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 matches, the teams scored an average of 1.63 goals in each game, with high variability, which translates into great differences in offensive effectiveness, on the other hand, the average ball possession was 50%, as for the distance traveled, there was an average of 117.4 km with wide differences, which means different levels of conditional demand depending on the game or strategy, the findings provide necessary information for the design of training and scouting tasks.

School Swimming. Contributions to Rethinking its Teaching from the Perspective of Educational Transformation

Inés Alexandra Chirigliano — 2025-10-01

The teaching of swimming has been part of the primary education curriculum in Uruguay since 2008. In 2023, an educational transformation was initiated that required physical education teachers to rethink their professional practices, including aquatic ones, from planning to methodologies and evaluation. This is considering that decisions about what, how, and why to teach directly impact the lives of the children who attend public schools in Uruguay. The objective of this work is to provide teachers with a series of guidelines that facilitate the planning and implementation of school swimming instruction, adaptable to the realities of their contexts and the particularities of their groups, while taking into account the current guidelines of the General Directorate of Initial and Primary Education from Uruguay.

Inclusive Physical Education for Student with Motor Disabilities

Daniel Josué Kirby Gomez — 2025-10-01

The research addressed the educational inclusion of students with motor functional diversity in Physical Education in Ecuador, specifically in the province of Guayas, which concentrated 25.3% of the national population with physical alterations. The case study was a 15-year-old adolescent with left transtibial amputation, for whom adaptive pedagogical strategies were implemented through a deliberate transformative action aimed at optimizing her multidimensional development. The methodology adopted a qualitative educational action-research design with an exploratory-descriptive scope. The intervention was structured following the typical action-research cycle: diagnosis, action and evaluation. This methodological design made it possible to understand the inclusion processes in Physical Education classes and to develop specific didactic strategies to facilitate effective inclusion, constituting a paradigmatic example to examine inclusive processes from educational and motor perspectives. The objective of this research was to develop a didactic strategy that would facilitate the effective inclusion of students with physical motor disabilities in Physical Education (PE) classes, promoting their integral development and transforming pedagogical practices in educational contexts. This objective was approached through a qualitative action-research design, which allowed not only to understand the experiences lived by the participants, but also to generate significant changes in the educational practice through a cyclical process of planning, action, observation and reflection.

The Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences, Implications for Education and Learning

Rogger Mauricio Silva Herrera — 2025-10-01

This literature review article explores the Theory of Multiple Intelligences proposed by Howard Gardner, which suggests that intelligence is not a single, general ability, but rather a set of distinct cognitive skills. Gardner initially identified seven types of intelligence: linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal, later adding naturalistic intelligence. This perspective has had a significant impact on the field of education, as it offers a broader view of human potential and challenges traditional teaching models focused solely on conventional academic abilities. The objective of this article is to analyze how this theory has been applied in educational contexts, what benefits have been reported, and what its main criticisms are. The review of various sources reveals that many educators have adopted this approach to design more inclusive pedagogical strategies that cater to individual learning styles, thereby promoting a more equitable and participatory education. However, the limitations of the theory are also discussed, including the lack of conclusive empirical evidence supporting the existence of independent intelligences in a neurological sense. Despite this, the theory of multiple intelligences remains an important reference point for curriculum design and educational innovation, as it emphasizes the value of recognizing and nurturing the diversity of student abilities in the classroom.

Impact of Physical Activity on Asthma Mortality in Brazil

Luiz Augusto da Silva — 2025-10-01

This study examines asthma mortality in Brazil over the past 13 years, providing a detailed epidemiological analysis across the country's five regions and highlighting disparities in mortality rates. Additionally, it discusses the role of physical activity in asthma management, including exercise prescription guidelines for individuals with asthma and the positive impact of physical activity on quality of life and respiratory function. Based on a systematic review of studies, this article offers recommendations for safe exercise practices, considering factors such as Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction and specific age-related needs.

Strategies to Dominate Esports: Keys to Success

Francisco Baldinelli — 2025-09-25

Esports are booming in 2025, combining strategy and technology. Players can master this digital world by following a variety of tactics. For beginners, it's crucial to start in practice modes, set clear goals, join communities, and watch professionals. These initial strategies help build a solid foundation. Advanced players must master high-intensity games, analyze their game statistics, and participate in global tournaments. Coordination with teammates and continuous learning of advanced techniques are vital to success.

The Digital Sports Ecosystem: From Competition to Leisure and Community

Emilio Arrung — 2025-09-19

Sport has transcended the playing field to integrate into a vast digital ecosystem that redefines the experience of fans and athletes. This environment connects live streams, real-time data, training apps, wearable devices, video games, betting, and online communities. The sports experience is no longer limited to the live event, but extends to preparation, post-event analysis, and constant social interaction across multiple platforms. For athletes and clubs, it offers monitoring tools and direct communication channels. For fans, it expands the ways to participate and receive information. Managing this ecosystem responsibly, safeguarding privacy and avoiding saturation, is key to enriching sports practice.

The New Bernabéu Tunnel that Turns Real Madrid's History into its Greatest Asset

Diana Gujer — 2025-09-19

Real Madrid has inaugurated a special corridor in the renovated Santiago Bernabéu, designed to influence visiting teams psychologically and motivate its own players. This "tunnel of emotions" leads from the arrival of the buses to the pitch, displaying the club's European Cups and other historic trophies in glass cases. The goal is for opponents to feel the grandeur and pressure of the stadium from the first moment. For Real Madrid players, it serves as a reminder of the history and responsibility their jersey represents. This initiative, launched against Marseille, is part of the stadium's modernization and seeks to command respect, consolidating the Bernabéu as an emotional fortress.

2025 F1 Drivers: Who's in with the Best Chance at the Azerbaijan GP?

Pedro Claro — 2025-09-16

The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix is shaping up to be a key and high-pressure race on the F1 calendar. The Baku street circuit, known for its unpredictability with long straights and tight corners, tests the drivers' skill and team strategy. In this scenario, McLaren arrives as the team to beat, with Oscar Piastri leading the championship and Lando Norris demonstrating formidable speed. However, Max Verstappen cannot be ruled out, whose experience and tactical acumen keep him a constant candidate for the podium. Other drivers such as George Russell, with his consistency, and Charles Leclerc, with his explosiveness in qualifying, also position themselves as serious contenders in a race that promises to be decisive.

From an Anonymous Experiment to a Global Financial Phenomenon: The History of Bitcoin

Alessia Quispe — 2025-09-08

In late 2008, an anonymous author known as Satoshi Nakamoto introduced a paper describing a "peer-to-peer electronic cash system" called Bitcoin. This marked the creation of a decentralized digital currency designed to operate without intermediaries. Bitcoin functions on a technology called blockchain, which acts as a public and immutable ledger. Transactions are grouped into blocks and validated by a network of miners, who earn new Bitcoins for their work. The currency's programmed scarcity, capped at 21 million units, has helped it evolve from a simple experiment into a store of value, providing a hedge against inflation. This same blockchain technology has since inspired a new industry of cryptocurrencies and decentralized applications.

Spain Leads the Growth of Online Gambling in Europe

Sara Domínguez — 2025-09-04

In recent years, Spain has seen significant growth in online gambling, becoming a leader in Europe. The popularity of online casinos, especially live casinos, has increased, allowing players to enjoy the excitement of traditional games from home. The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) has established stricter regulations to ensure responsible and safe gambling. Online poker has stood out, attracting players of all skill levels. Some platforms offer high-quality experiences, thus consolidating the promising future of the sector.

AtraParkour: An Innovative Proposal to Promote Adherence to Physical Activity in Physical Education

Marc Lloret Parra — 2025-08-31

Low adherence to physical activity is one of the major contemporary challenges in both educational and health contexts. To address this issue and promote active lifestyles from an early age, the AtraParkour experience is presented—an alternative sport that merges the playful pursuit of traditional tag with parkour elements and the competitive logic of World Chase Tag. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of its implementation on motivation, enjoyment, and perceived motor competence among secondary school students, in order to assess its potential as a methodological strategy to foster adherence to physical activity in the school setting. The proposal was designed for use in Physical Education classes and recreational contexts, employing accessible materials and mobile structures adaptable to various environments. Its pedagogical foundations, the characteristics of the play area (Parkour Park), general rules, and three main modalities -classic, individual, and numbered- are described. The results revealed high student engagement, improved perception of motor competence, and a high level of enjoyment, all of which are key factors in sustaining physical activity over time. This experience aligns with the principles of meaningful learning, the competency-based approach, and Self-Determination Theory, establishing itself as an effective and inclusive pedagogical tool for promoting physical activity in schools through play, creativity, and intrinsic motivation.

Building an Observational Tool for Analyzing Behavior in Equestrian Jumping

Alicia Victoria Manjarrés Bejarano — 2025-08-31

The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a specific observational tool for analyzing the technical, tactical, and psychological performance of the rider-horse pair in high-performance show jumping competitions. To this end, an Observational Methodology (OM) is used, and an “ad hoc” tool is proposed based on a mixed system of fields and an Exhaustive and Mutually Exclusive (E/ME) Category System composed of 5 criteria and 28 categories. The tool covers strategic, technical, and psychological dimensions and was applied to outstanding pairs in international events on different surfaces and at different competitive moments. The HOISAN and SAGT programs were used to ensure intra- and interobserver reliability, obtaining high coefficients (Pearson ≈ 0.90, Cohen's Kappa ≥ 0.87). The analysis of invariance according to the sex of the rider did not reveal any significant differences (z=0), which supports its general applicability. This tool provides a solid basis for the design of personalized training programs and for the improvement of competitive performance from a comprehensive perspective, taking into account both the horse and the rider.

Student Evaluation of Cooperative Learning in Physical Education

Ángel Luis Durán — 2025-08-31

The objective was to determine the perception of high school students about cooperative learning in Physical Education. A non-probabilistic sample of 88% of the total (70 out of 80 students) was selected from the Colegio Evangélico Efraín, in the educational district 08-04 of the Dominican Republic. The approach was non-experimental quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional. A Likert-type questionnaire was applied, validated by expert judgment and pilot test, consisting of eight items covering the dimensions of effective communication, support and recognition among group members, and performance improvement through teamwork. A reliability analysis (Cronbach's alpha = 0.777) and a frequency analysis were carried out using tables and graphs in SPSS 23. No significant correlation was found between gender and agreement scale according to Kendall's Tau-b coefficient (Tau-b = 0.020, p = 0.839) or between age and agreement scale (Tau-b = 0.131, p = 0.163). Positive ratings were shown, with the majority of the sample strongly agreeing or agreeing on all items. It is concluded that cooperative learning is a very significant methodology in Physical Education, but further studies are recommended to extend these findings.

Physical Activity as a Promoter of Health among Schoolchildren: Concepts and Applications at NCCB

Jorge William Pedroso Silveira — 2025-08-30

The objective of the present study was to analyze the applicability of physical activity as a health promoter in the National Common Curricular Base related to Physical Education at school. To this end, we used the systematic review called Methodi Ordinatio, which scales studies according to their impact on the scientific community. 32 studies were listed that confirm the lack of direct applicability of physical activity, making it supporting the thematic axes that make up the curricular component. Thus, it is possible to conclude that physical activity in the school environment continues to be a practice and not knowledge based on the sum of the tacit aspect and its reflections for the construction of a long-term body culture, that is, the culture related to the body that suggests care with the health of students in their later life.

(De) Motivating Teaching Styles: The Circumplex Model Applied to Physical Education

Khaled Omar Mohamad El Tassa — 2025-08-30

The teaching style adopted by teachers is an important factor that interferes with students' motivation for learning, and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is one of the most widely used theories in recent decades to analyze motivation in different physical spaces and educational contexts. The general objective of this study is to analyze, based on the STD and the Circumplex Model, the (de)motivating teaching styles of Physical Education teachers in the school context. To this end, a theoretical review on the topic was used as a method to appropriate concepts arising from SDT and the Circumplex Model. The study findings showed a significant number of scientific articles that provide a good level of reliability for each of the four (de)motivating teaching styles of the Circumplex Model. This evidence represents a significant advance in the understanding of the motivating and demotivating styles adopted by teachers in the classroom, by offering an integrated and refined analytical approach. This proposal indicates the need for a more comprehensive and precise look at how different teaching styles interrelate; at the same time, the model allows us to distinguish nuances within each category. To this end, the Circumplex Model uses a descriptive analytical strategy that expands the capacity to interpret teaching practices, contributing to a more complex and situated understanding of the educational phenomenon. The teacher's perception of the teaching styles adopted can influence the way the teacher thinks about his or her professional intervention.

World Cup 2026: Messi's Final Chapter as a Player?

Fabio Contissa — 2025-08-30

This article explores the possibility that the 2026 World Cup could be Lionel Messi's last. At 39 years old, the Argentine star, who has won everything at the club and international levels, faces a major challenge. Despite his physical changes, he retains unique skills such as vision and precision. His move to the MLS has helped him pace his efforts and maintain his fitness. The article highlights the transformation of the Argentine national team under Lionel Scaloni, who built a team that empowered Messi and led them to several titles, including the 2022 World Cup. Messi's participation in 2026 would be his "last dance" and an opportunity to consolidate his legacy. The article also mentions that this tournament could mark the retirement of other veterans of the "Scaloneta," making way for a new generation of talent.

Cardiac Rehabilitation in Severe Sarcopenia: A Case Study

Rafaela Bassan Bortoluzi — 2025-08-30

Introduction: Sarcopenia is a multifactorial and systemic muscle disease characterized by progressive loss of muscle strength and mass, which impacts functionality, increases the risk of frailty, and long-term mortality. Cardiac surgery is known to cause a systemic inflammatory response associated with sarcopenia. Objective: To report and evaluate the efficacy of a cardiac rehabilitation program (Phase 2) in a patient with severe sarcopenia after coronary artery bypass graft surgery at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Service of the University Hospital of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Method: This is a case study of a 63-year-old male patient diagnosed with severe sarcopenia during a cardiac rehabilitation program. The outcomes evaluated were: functional capacity (six-minute walk test), muscle thickness (ultrasound), peripheral muscle endurance (handgrip strength and 1-minute sit-to-stand test), and quality of life (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire). Results: The patient was enrolled in the program, consisting of aerobic and resistance exercise combined with functional electrical stimulation, performed twice a week for 12 weeks. After completion, there was an improvement in all outcomes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program. Conclusion: The findings confirm the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation in patients with severe sarcopenia after cardiac surgery, as well as demonstrating the importance of early screening and intervention for this condition, even in non-elderly patients, in the cardiac rehabilitation setting.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies for Obese Adults with Binge Eating Disorder

Naylane Michel Weidle — 2025-08-30

Obesity and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) pose significant public health challenges, affecting a substantial number of adults worldwide. This study is a literature review, with an emphasis on publications from the last ten years, which aimed to analyze the contributions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBTs) in the treatment of adults with obesity and BED. Three main approaches were explored: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The review addressed fundamental aspects of obesity and BED, presenting the theoretical foundations of the approaches analyzed and the scientific literature's findings regarding their effectiveness. Evidence indicates that these therapies are successful in reducing binge eating episodes and improving psychological well-being; however, their effectiveness in promoting weight loss simultaneously with BED treatment is less consistent. These findings reinforce the importance of integrated, multidisciplinary interventions to achieve more comprehensive and lasting results.

The Press Representations of the Paris-Madrid Race (1903) and the Social Debates on Automobile Speed

Matteo Arias Diaz — 2025-08-30

In recent years, the social and human sciences have dedicated greater importance to motorsport and the concept of speed, arguing its relevance for the understanding of several current problematics. As part of this growing interest, motorsport practices have been the subject of various analyses of the social, geographical, legal and cultural transformations resulting from automobile speed. However, these studies tend to neglect the complex process by which the unprecedented speed of automobiles was inserted into societies at the turn of the 19th to 20th century. In order to visualize this question, the Paris-Madrid race of 1903, responsible for fundamental changes in the evolution of motorsport, is a pertinent case study, since this event was at the confluence of several debates that were generated around this vehicle in its early stages. To this end, the aim of this research is to examine the journalistic representations of this race in the sports and non-sports press in the cities of Paris and Madrid. The contradictory press interpretations, in addition to being symptomatic of the social discussions aroused by the automobile speed, highlight the historicity of this phenomenon.

The Teacher's Manual of Physical Education: A Critical Analysis of the Discourse

Giovanni Rafael Romano Valladão — 2025-08-30

Education present in the textbook "Presente Mais Educação Física: Manual do Professor (3º a 5º ano): ensino fundamental: anos iniciais" through Critical Discourse Analysis (ACD) of Norman Fairclough. This manual is based on the National Common Curriculum Base (BNCC) in its final version, and the study was conducted during the development of my doctoral thesis. ACD provided an essential theoretical-methodological framework to understand the extensive and deep relationship between ideology, hegemony, discourse, official documents and textbooks, considering them historical products loaded with the values of the dominant class. In the Physical Education Teacher's Manual, discourses are identified that seek to impose hegemony in discussions of binary gender, the return of sportivization and the precariousness of teaching work through the pedagogy of scraps. It is concluded that the authors of the textbook Teacher's Manual appropriate political discourse to manipulate, since they do not emphasize critical reflections on reality, society, structures of power and oppression.