Journal Motricidade (ISSN 1646-107X, eISSN 2182-2972) is a peer-reviewed scientific journal published by Sílabas Didáticas, LDA, under a continuous publication model, with articles published online upon acceptance and completion of the editorial process. The journal provides immediate open access to all published content under the Creative Commons Attribution–NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) licence. Journal Motricidade publishes original research articles and review papers that are methodologically rigorous and theoretically grounded, contributing to the advancement of sports science, human movement, human development, and health, while fostering international scholarly debate in these fields. The journal is currently indexed in: Web of Science: SciELO Citation Index, Scopus, SciELO, DOAJ, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, CABI, EBSCO, ProQuest, SCImago Journal Rank (SJR), Latindex, Google Scholar, SHERPA/RoMEO, NLM Catalog, BASE, OCLC, Gale, SIIC Databases, BVS ePORTUGUÊSe, Genamics JournalSeek, Qualis. Journal Motricidade follows the Recommendations of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) and the publication standards of the American Psychological Association (APA) for the preparation and reporting of scientific manuscripts.
Authors retain copyright of their work. Upon acceptance for publication, authors grant Sílabas Didáticas, LDA a non-exclusive licence to publish, reproduce, distribute, communicate the article to the public, and identify itself as the original publisher of the article in print and electronic formats, including its indexing and dissemination through databases, repositories, and other scholarly platforms. All published articles are made available under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution–NonCommercial 4.0 International Licence (CC BY-NC 4.0). This licence permits non-commercial use, sharing, distribution, and reproduction in any medium or format, provided that appropriate credit is given to the original author(s) and to Journal Motricidade, and that any changes made are indicated. Authors may deposit the final published version of the article (Version of Record) in institutional repositories, subject repositories, academic networks, or personal websites, provided that the original publication is properly cited.
Effects of a Psychomotor and Road Safety Program on Motor Competence and Safety Knowledge in Preschool Children from Cuenca, Ecuador
This study examined the effects of a school-based psychomotor and road safety education program on motor competence and traffic safety knowledge in preschool children. A total of 328 participants (M=4.1±0.4 years) were assigned to control (n=134) and experimental (n=194) groups using a quasi-experimental pre–post design. Psychomotor skills and road safety outcomes were assessed through standardised tests, and data were analysed using a 5-way mixed ANOVA. Results showed significant improvements in the experimental group compared to controls in total psychomotor skills (p=0.003; η²p=0.027) and overall road safety education scores (p≤0.0001; η²p=0.273). The interaction effects showed that improvements varied according to gender, school type, and geographic context. While both groups improved in some motor domains, the experimental group demonstrated consistently greater scores following the intervention. These findings support the effectiveness of integrated, school-based interventions to enhance both motor development and safety-related learning in early childhood.
Copyright (c) 2026 Motricidade https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The effect of a physical activity program on physical function in older adults at a day care centre
To analyse the influence of a community-based multicomponent physical exercise program on the functional fitness of older adults. A quasi-experimental, single-group study with 19 community-dwelling residents (16 women, 3 men; M = 70.67 ± 5.42 years). The intervention lasted 12 weeks (two weekly sessions of 45-50 min). Functional fitness and fall risk were assessed at pre- and post-intervention using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), with analysis of the components of static balance, gait speed (4 meters), and lower-limb strength (sit-to-stand, 5 times). After 12 weeks, the program induced significant improvements. The 4-meter gait time reduced from 3.00 (±0.30) to 2.78 (±0.26) seconds (p = 0.006; d = 0.72). In the sit-to-stand test, the execution time significantly decreased from 12.27 (±1.84) to 10.74 (±1.29) seconds (p < 0.001; d = 1.15). The total SPPB score registered a significant overall increase, going from 9.88 (±0.99) to 10.59 (±0.62) points (p < 0.001; d = 1.03). The static balance test did not show statistically significant differences (p = 0.083). The community implementation of a low-cost, multicomponent exercise program significantly improves lower-limb strength, gait agility, and overall functional performance, serving as a crucial protective factor against motor decline and fall risk.
Interactions Between Chronological Age, Relative Age, and Maturation on Training Load, Recovery, and Technical– Tactical Performance in Pre-Pubertal Sub-Elite Football Players
Chronological age, relative age effects, and biological maturation are key factors influencing training load exposure and performance development in youth football. However, their combined and independent contributions to external and internal load, recovery status, and technical–tactical performance in sub-elite pre-pubertal players remain insufficiently understood. Forty sub-elite pre-pubertal male football players (U11 = 30; U13 = 10) were monitored across four training sessions and one official match. External load was assessed using GPS-derived metrics (total distance, high-speed running [HSR], high-intensity distance, average speed [AvS], maximal running speed [MRS], accelerations, and decelerations). Internal load was quantified via heart rate and session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE). Recovery status was evaluated using the Total Quality Recovery (TQR) scale. Technical–tactical performance was assessed through decision-making index, motor effectiveness index, and overall performance index. Relative age was classified by birth quartiles, and biological maturation was estimated using maturity offset (Mirwald method; median = −1.42 years). Group comparisons, effect sizes (Cohen’s d), and multiple regression analyses were conducted. Chronological age showed a clear influence on locomotor intensity, with U13 players demonstrating higher HSR (p = 0.02, d = 1.15), MRS (p = 0.03, d = 0.84), and AvS (p = 0.05, d = 0.82) compared to U11 players. Relative age quartiles revealed negligible differences, except for a higher number of sprints in early-born players (p = 0.03, d = −0.64). When classified by maturity offset, early pre-peak height velocity (pre-PHV) players performed more accelerations and decelerations (p < 0.05), whereas later pre-PHV players tended to reach higher running intensities. Regression analyses indicated that competition level (U13) was the strongest predictor of HSR (β = 0.65, p < 0.01) and MRS (β = 0.52, p = 0.02), while relative age and maturity offset showed minor effects (R² = 0.15–0.33). Internal load, recovery, and technical–tactical outcomes displayed low explained variance (R² < 0.10). Chronological age emerged as the primary determinant of external load in sub-elite pre-pubertal football players, whereas relative age and biological maturation exerted limited independent effects. These findings highlight the dominant role of competition level over maturation-related factors in shaping external load profiles during early developmental stages.
The Dualistic Model of Passion in Surfing: Practitioner Profile and Motivational Dimensions
This study aimed to characterise the sociodemographic and practice profile of surfers in Portugal and to analyse their levels of harmonious and obsessive passion as a function of sex and modality. Methods: The sample consisted of 138 surfers (79% male; M = 38.79 years), with an average surfing experience of 20.71 ± 13.06 years. Results: The majority of the sample is Portuguese (88.4%) and resides predominantly in the North region (52.2%) and the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (23.2%). Regarding the specific modality, Shortboard is the most used board (51.4%), followed by Bodyboard (23.2%). The technical skill level presented a mean of 5.16 ± 1.78 (on a scale of 1 to 10). Inferential analysis detected no differences in harmonious passion between sex. However, men presented significantly higher levels of obsessive passion (p = .048; d = 0.42) compared to women. No significant differences were observed in harmonious passion levels (F[4, 133] = 0.13; p = .972; η² = .004) regardless of the type of board used. Similarly, although Bodyboard practitioners presented slightly higher mean absolute values of obsessive passion, this difference did not reach statistical significance (F[4, 133] = 1.88; p = .117; η² = .054). Conclusion: Surfing in Portugal is practised mostly as a harmonious activity integrated into one's identity. However, males present a higher vulnerability to developing obsessive patterns, suggesting that psychological interventions and the promotion of healthy practice habits should consider these sex differences.
Qualification without return? Exploratory study on the sociodemographic and economic characterization of Exercise Professionals in Portugal
The present exploratory study aimed to characterise the sociodemographic profile and the economic-professional reality of Exercise Professionals in Portugal. The sample consisted of 276 professionals (63.8% male; 36.2% female), with a mean age of 32.27 ± 6.64 years and a mean professional experience of 7.94 ± 5.61 years. The qualification level is distributed among Specialist Technical Course in Physical Exercise (20.3%), Bachelor's degree (42.8%), Master's degree (34.1%), and Doctoral degree (2.9%). Regarding employment status, 70.7% of the participants work as independent contractors, while 29.3% work under an employment contract. The results evidence mean hourly remuneration rates of ~€6.60/h for gym floor supervision and ~€7.44/h for physical assessment, with personal training standing at ~€24.81/h. Additionally, no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were found in overall monthly income by academic qualification. In conclusion, the fitness sector in Portugal is characterised by a young workforce with high levels of academic education but faces significant challenges regarding contractual stability and the marked disparity in remuneration among different technical tasks.
What is bringing soccer fans to stadiums? A comparison of kick-off time, table positions, and the role of top teams in Portuguese football’s top-tier
This study undertook a multivariable analysis of potential factors affecting stadium attendance to better prepare sports teams for possible challenges. The analysed factors included the day of the match, kick-off time, table position of the home and away teams, difference between positions of the home and away teams, and the presence or absence of top teams, with a linear mixed-model analysis. The presence of one (difference: 31.86, p<.001) or two (difference: 43.77, p<.001) top teams was the main factor increasing attendance. Evening matches (8 pm) had higher attendance than afternoon matches (4 pm) (difference: 5.13, p=.003), though this may be influenced by scheduling patterns. Interactions showed that when teams were separated by 11 or more positions, matches held before 8 pm on Saturdays attracted higher attendance (p<.05). Fans of top teams preferred less uncertainty (p<.05). This study shows that stadium attendances are impacted by interactions between different variables. This can lead organisers to consider adjusting match days and kick-off times based on differences in table positions. The presence of top teams increased attendance the most, showing higher identification with those teams.
Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Effects on Work Performance of Fitness Professionals in Portugal: Cross-sectional study
This study aimed to identify the main factors that caused, reactivated and/or aggravated musculoskeletal disorders (MED) in fitness professionals' (FP) perception, the effects of MED on FP performance and recovery, characterise MED, compare groups and correlate the nMED/FP with several variables. 466 FP answered the VidaProFit survey online. Descriptive statistics, the T-test, and Pearson's correlation were used. 46.2% of the FP reported MED (mean: 1.11±1.61 nMED/FP). Most reported MED were in “joint/ligaments”, in the “knee”, from “overuse”, “identified by a specialist” and “aggravated” by work. Most FP keep working during MED recovery and consider that this fact prolongs the recovery. Around half of the MED were “recurrent”, “caused” and/or “reactivated” by work. Almost half of the FP resorted to sick leave, considering “insufficient recovery time” as the main factor for MED, and feel pain/discomfort during work. “Females” and “working as FP” were the groups with significantly higher mean of nMED/FP. Age, professional experience, number of group fitness classes/week, body&mind group fitness classes/week, maximal group fitness classes/day, paid and unpaid working hours/week were correlated with nMED/FP. Results support the need to create programs or guidelines targeted to MED prevention to ensure the continuity of FPs in the fitness sector.
Sustainable Behaviours of Athletes and Fans at a Central American Skating and Skateboarding Championship: Determinants and Future Intentions
This study examines factors that predict sustainable behaviours among participants and spectators during the Central American Championship of Skating and Skateboarding and analyses how these behaviours influence future sustainable intentions. A total of 141 individuals (58.5% spectators, 41.5% participants; M age = 30.33 ± 12.9 years) completed a self-administered questionnaire comprising 40 items adapted from previously validated instruments. Two predictive models were tested using multiple linear regression. The first model assessed the extent to which past sustainable behaviours, internal and external constraints, and perceptions of sustainable initiatives predicted sustainable behaviour during the event. The second model examined whether sustainable behaviour during the event and satisfaction with sustainable initiatives predicted future sustainable intentions. Past sustainable behaviors, internal and external constraints, and perceptions of sustainable initiatives were all significant predictors of sustainable behavior during the event. Sustainable behaviour during the event significantly predicted future intentions to engage in sustainable behaviour. In contrast, satisfaction with sustainable initiatives did not significantly predict future intentions, which may reflect the one-off nature of the event and limited prior exposure to sustainability initiatives. These findings underscore the importance of implementing visible, well-designed sustainability initiatives at sports events and of reducing internal and external constraints to encourage environmentally responsible behaviours among both participants and spectators and to foster future sustainable intentions.
Impact of physical activity on body composition and physical fitness: A comparative study on university athletes and non-athletes
The physical activity levels of university students are decreasing daily due to academic burden and society’s modernisation. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between physical activity, body composition, and physical fitness among university students. The research was carried out in 2024 with a sample totalling N = 354 students, n = 286 (80.8% male), aged 19–27, and n = 68 (19.2% female), aged 19 to 27 (22.84 ± 2.60 in total). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to quantify physical activity levels. Furthermore, the IN-F500 body composition analyser was used to determine body composition. The Hand Grip Test (muscular strength), the Push Up Test (muscular endurance), the Sit and Reach Test (flexibility), and the Harvard Step Test (cardiorespiratory fitness) were utilised to assess physical fitness. Male athletes exhibited higher levels of physical activity, possessed a lower fat mass%, and had superior physical fitness. Overall, fat mass% showed statistically significant inverse correlations, whereas skeletal muscle mass%, moderate physical activity, and vigorous physical activity showed positive correlations with physical fitness. No significant correlations were found between low physical activity and physical fitness. This study suggested that universities to include high-intensity physical activity including muscular fitness, speed, and agility in to fitness programs.
Physical demands and patterns of Portuguese football referees: a case study Short Title: Demands of Football referees in Portugal
This study quantified the match-related external and internal physical demands and activity patterns of Portuguese Football field referees (FRs) and assistant referees (ARs) across different categories. A total of 8 FRs and 7 ARs were monitored during 98 official competitions using GPS with embedded heart rate sensors, and post-match rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected. Descriptive statistics and between-group comparisons were applied to examine differences between roles, and the interrelationship between external and internal loads was explored using Pearson’s correlation. FRs covered substantially more total distance and distance per minute than ARs (7.49 ± 2.47 vs 5.64 ± 1.25 km; 78.68 ± 14.56 vs 55.88 ± 7.78 m·min⁻¹; both p < .001), and accumulated more medium-velocity running, whereas ARs reached higher maximal speeds and performed more high-speed running bouts and decelerations (p ≤ .031). ARs also reported higher perceived exertion than FRs (6.80 ± 0.68 vs 4.23 ± 1.65, p < .001), and RPE showed strong positive correlations with accelerations (r = 0.674, p < .001) and decelerations (r = 0.686, p < .001). Heart rate data from FRs showed most match time spent in low-to-moderate intensity zones, with minimal exposure to very high intensities. The referees were exposed to substantial, role-dependent external and internal loads even in a non-professional regional setting. The distinct demands of FRs and ARs, support the need for role- and category-specific conditioning, monitoring and recovery strategies used. These findings provide practical benchmarks to inform training prescription, load management and development pathways for football referees.
Sport practice as an educational mean for positive values and behaviours
Federated sport represents a non-formal educational context that can foster youth development. However, participation alone does not ensure positive outcomes. This study aimed to examine potential differences by gender, age group (U14 and U18), and federated sports participation or non-participation in developmental assets, satisfaction with sport, and sporting attitudes. The Developmental Assets Questionnaire, the Sports Attitudes Questionnaire, and the Sources of Satisfaction in Youth Sport Questionnaire were administered to 258 participants (mean age 14.41±1.97; 134 boys and 124 girls; 80 federated sports practitioners). Then, the ANOVA test was carried out for data analysis. Evidence indicates that gender influences social competencies, support, positive identity and internal and external assets, satisfaction and attitudes towards sport. Age group influences developmental assets and satisfaction in sport. Also, practising federated competition has a positive influence on developmental assets, satisfaction and attitudes towards sport.
Is there a real physiological and technical-tactical difference between futsal and football? A preliminary study with under-13 football players
Futsal has been explored as a potential developer of talent for 11-a-side football through the transfer of skills developed due to its constraints. This study examined the physiological and technical-tactical behaviours of fourteen young male football players (12.90±0.36 years) during participation in two representative tasks designed to replicate the sport-specific environments. Participants performed six matches of 6v6 with a five-minute duration, interspersed with five minutes of passive recovery for both representative tasks in different sessions, with a familiarisation session for the futsal conditions. Technical and tactical data were recorded using a video camera and subsequently analysed using the Game Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI) and the Movement Awareness and Technical Skill Instruments (MATS). Only two players per game used the ZephyrTM Bioharness, while all players reported a subjective perception of effort. The results for the comparison between representative tasks showed significant differences for the following variables: reception at first touch, pass at first touch, pass at first touch unsuccessful, unsuccessful pass, forward direction of the ball and side direction of the ball, showing a higher frequency of technical actions values for futsal than football. The results indicate that futsal could be a sport that promotes talent development for young football players.
Human interaction matters: personal and relational determinants of adherence and sustained participation in tele-exercise programmes for older adults: an integrative review
An integrative review of the literature was conducted, searching the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases and including studies published between 2015 and 2025. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies involving community-dwelling older adults and structured tele-exercise programmes were considered. Study selection followed PRISMA 2020 transparency principles where applicable, and findings were analysed using narrative and thematic synthesis. Five studies were included, predominantly pilot or feasibility designs, involving monitored asynchronous tele-exercise and self-managed asynchronous tele-exercise modalities. Findings indicated that adherence and sustained participation were more consistent in interventions with structured professional monitoring, albeit delayed, compared with self-managed programmes, in which greater variability and a decline in practice over time were observed. The continuation of exercise appears to depend on the interaction between personal determinants, such as motivation, perceived benefits, and self-regulation, and relational determinants, such as support, feedback, and perceived follow-up. Technological barriers and limited digital literacy emerged as cross-cutting factors affecting sustained participation. It is concluded that tele-exercise is a viable approach to promote physical activity among older adults; however, maintenance of participation is strongly influenced by the level of human interaction and professional support. These findings should be interpreted as indicative behavioural trends rather than definitive causal evidence, reinforcing the need for participant-centred tele-exercise models with appropriate follow-up strategies and standardised metrics to evaluate adherence and sustained participation.
Effect of Resistance Training for the Treatment of Patellofemoral Pain: A Systematic Review
This systematic review aimed to synthesise the work conducted in this area to guide professional practice in decision-making. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, SPORTDiscus, BVS, and SciELO databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to September 18, 2024. Randomised clinical trials investigating the effects of resistance training programs on pain and muscle function outcomes in individuals PFPS were included. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro Scale, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (version 2). Study screening and data extraction were performed independently and in duplicate, encompassing intervention characteristics and the assessment of the outcomes of interest. Thirty RCTs involving 1,733 participants (74.3% female; mean age 28.8 ± 5.5 years) were included. Resistance training, whether isolated or combined, consistently improved pain and function. Combined hip and quadriceps strengthening showed superior effects compared to isolated protocols. Core-focused programs and adjunctive strategies (e.g., assistive technologies, biofeedback) also produced benefits, though not consistently superior to conventional training. Whole-body vibration and neuromuscular electrical stimulation yielded mixed results, with limited evidence of clinical superiority. Resistance training is an effective therapeutic strategy for PFPS, with combined hip and quadriceps strengthening offering better benefits. Complementary approaches may enhance outcomes, but evidence is insufficient to confirm superiority over standard resistance exercise. Future high-quality RCTs with standardised protocols are recommended to strengthen the evidence base.
Nailton José Brandão de Albuquerque Filho
Predictive Validity of Physical, Technical, and Psychological Indicators in Talent Scouting: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Talent scouting plays a critical role in athlete development systems, yet uncertainty persists regarding which early indicators most accurately predict long-term performance or elite attainment. Although physical, technical, and psychological assessments are widely used, existing evidence is fragmented and often domain-specific, limiting evidence-based decision-making in talent identification. This study aimed to systematically synthesise and quantitatively compare the predictive validity of physical, technical, and psychological indicators used in talent scouting. Specifically, it sought to (1) estimate pooled effect sizes for each indicator domain, (2) examine contextual moderators such as age, sport type, sex, and follow-up duration, and (3) evaluate the methodological quality of contemporary longitudinal evidence. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Longitudinal studies published between 2020 and 2025 were identified through searches of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, and Embase. Eligible studies examined baseline physical, technical, or psychological indicators and subsequent performance or selection outcomes. Effect sizes were harmonised using Fisher’s z transformation and synthesised using random-effects models. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Physical indicators demonstrated small-to-moderate predictive validity, particularly for short-term outcomes, but the effects were highly context-dependent and attenuated when biological maturation was controlled for. Technical indicators, especially match-derived and decision-executed measures, showed moderate and more stable predictive validity. Psychological and perceptual-cognitive indicators yielded smaller but significant effects and frequently provided incremental predictive value in multidomain models. Talent prediction is inherently multidimensional. Integrated, longitudinal scouting frameworks combining physical, technical, and psychological indicators offer superior predictive utility compared to single-domain approaches and support fairer, developmentally informed talent identification practices.
From ISEF-Porto to FADEUP: three key references in the consolidation of the Theory and Methodology of Sport Training curricular unit at the University of Porto
In Portugal, Sport Training became scientifically consolidated through academic hubs strongly connected to practice, in which ISEF-Porto and, later, FCDEF-UP and FADEUP played a central role in linking the university with the sporting field. At INEF-Lisboa, from the 1940s onwards, the first steps were taken toward the academic formalisation of Sport Training, initially centred on teacher education and progressively incorporating specific training-related contents. This movement influenced the context in Porto, where the institutional evolution from ISEF-Porto to FCDEF-UP and FADEUP supported a culture of knowledge production, pedagogical innovation and transfer to practice. This essay-style article seeks both to pay tribute to and to analyse the role of three key figures in this lineage — Vítor Frade, António Marques and José Oliveira — who, over several decades, were responsible for the core curricular unit Theory and Methodology of Sport Training within the undergraduate degree and for its consolidation as a structuring axis of the curriculum. The article identifies historical and institutional contexts that were fundamental to the academic education of coaches, discusses the continuity and current pedagogical relevance of this legacy, and proposes an agenda for the next decade centred on ecological validation, data-driven science and close relationships with key actors in the sporting community.
Mediating Mechanisms Linking Exercise and Mental Health: A Sports-Science Perspective with Implications for Athlete Performance
Although exercise consistently improves mental health, sports scientists and coaches need evidence about how exercise produces those benefits and how those mechanisms translate into athletic performance and training practice. We conducted a PRISMA-guided systematic review of studies that formally tested mediators in the exercise → mental-health pathway to identify mechanisms most relevant to sport performance and coaching. Electronic searches (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus; inception-March 2025) identified 30 mediation studies (cross-sectional, longitudinal, RCTs) that together sampled adolescents, athletes, older adults and clinical groups. We extracted study characteristics, indirect effect estimates or required statistics for conversion, risk-of-bias ratings, and sport-relevant moderators (sport vs non-sport samples; competitive level; modality). Across studies, psychosocial mediators (self-efficacy, body-esteem, mastery) and affective responses (increases in positive affect, reductions in negative affect) were the most robust pathways. Behavioural mediators (sleep quality, fatigue reduction) and physiological mediators (fitness, functional capacity, BDNF in clinical samples) contributed especially in physically demanding or rehabilitative contexts. Importantly, when studies involved sport participants or sport-structured training, mediators linked more directly to performance outcomes (motivation, training adherence, competitive anxiety). We present subgroup analyses and sensitivity checks (excluding cross-sectional designs) that strengthen causal interpretation and propose a mechanism-driven framework for coaches: (1) design mastery-based progressions to boost self-efficacy, (2) structure sessions to maximise positive affect and recovery, and (3) monitor sleep and fatigue as mediators of both mental health and performance. These sport-focused mechanistic insights support targeted training prescriptions that maximise athlete well-being and performance.
Angular postural variables evaluated by photogrammetry in the sagittal plane: systematic review with meta-analysis of studies conducted with children and adolescents
This systematic review with meta-analysis, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42019131055) and conducted according to MOOSE and PRISMA guidelines, aimed to identify posture assessment methodologies using sagittal-plane photogrammetry and to establish normative values for children and adolescents. Searches (November 21, 2024) across six databases (PubMed, EMBASE, BIREME, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Web of Science) and complementary sources identified 1,235 records. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and assessment of methodological quality and risk of bias (Downs & Black checklist). Observational studies with healthy participants aged 7 to 17 years, assessed using sagittal-plane photogrammetry in an upright standing position, were included. Of the 22 studies included in the qualitative synthesis, seven (n=1,012 participants) were eligible for meta-analysis. All studies demonstrated high methodological quality. The meta-analysis revealed low heterogeneity (I²<50%) and enabled the establishment of normative values for: pelvic tilt (12.4º-14.9º for ages 7-9; 12.3º-13.6º for ages 10-14) and vertical trunk alignment (2.1º-2.6º for ages 10-14). Greater forward head position and pelvic tilt were observed in girls during the pubertal growth spurt. The certainty of evidence was moderate. As a limitation, methodological diversity restricted the possibilities for meta-analysis for some variables. It is concluded that photogrammetry is a valid method for postural assessment in this population, and the established normative values provide clinical references for the early detection of postural deviations.
Isoinertial Training in Futsal Players: A Scoping Review of Current Evidence and Research Gaps
Futsal demands high-intensity neuromuscular performance, making the optimisation of strength and power crucial. Isoinertial training, known for its eccentric overload, has shown potential to enhance these qualities. This scoping review aimed to identify and map the available literature and identify research gaps regarding the application of isoinertial training in futsal. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searches were conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect up to June 2025. Controlled trials involving isoinertial training in futsal and assessments of physical performance were included. Study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment (PEDro scale) were conducted independently. Of 11 records identified, only one controlled trial met the inclusion criteria. This study (PEDro score: 6/10) included 10 semi-professional players and compared 8 weeks of isoinertial training (1 session/week) with bodyweight training. No significant improvements were found in vertical jump performance. However, significant gains were observed in linear speed (p < 0.05; ES = 1.05) and change-of-direction speed (p < 0.01; ES = 6.03), notably 2 weeks post-intervention. Evidence on isoinertial training in futsal is extremely limited. Preliminary findings suggest it may improve speed-related performance but not jumping ability, highlighting a significant gap in current research.
Inclusive practices for students with disabilities in physical education classes: A literature review
The aim of this literature review was to identify effective inclusion practices for students with disabilities in international school physical education. The PRISMA methodology was employed, which, through the research question, enabled the identification of emerging categories based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 45 articles met the selection criteria. Based on their empirical results, a classification was made into two main dimensions related to inclusive practices, both inside and outside the physical education classroom. Additionally, each dimension identified various categories to identify key effective inclusion practices in school physical education. The identification and categorization of these inclusive practices allow for an analysis of the various inclusive strategies reported in the literature, highlighting the main areas of interest in recent years, namely: emotional support in the physical education class, organization of the space or location where the physical education class is conducted, pedagogical support during the class, the educational project of the school, public policies related to the inclusion of students with disabilities focused on school physical education, and the initial training of physical education teachers. Future research should focus efforts on involving parents, guardians, and/or caregivers of students with disabilities, as well as on distinguishing the individual characteristics of each type of disability within the diversity of students in the school stage.
Performance of GPS-tracked football players in response to game contextual variables: A systematic review
This systematic review analysed the influence of contextual game variables on movement and intensity parameters recorded by Global Positioning System devices in professional football athletes. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 1,401 studies (excluding duplicates) were found in the Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, resulting in 34 articles included, with 1,039 male professional football players analysed in 1,154 matches. Studies revealed that starters cover a greater total distance per minute compared to substitutes, who perform better in high-intensity activities. The need for points to secure safer standings or avoid relegation significantly influences effort and intensity. The average distance covered per minute is higher during ball-in-play periods, highlighting the importance of high-intensity moments. Game intensity tends to decrease in the second half, with intensity variations across different positions. These results emphasise the complexity of interactions between contextual variables and performance parameters. Practical applications include informing coaches to individualise training and recovery strategies by position and match context.
Characteristic Signs of Overtraining Syndrome in Military Personnel: A Scoping Review of Original Studies
This scoping review aimed to identify the main thematic areas and tools used in studies addressing signs of Overtraining Syndrome (OTS) in military personnel, and to explore the heterogeneity and applicability of these tools in operational contexts. A comprehensive search was conducted in nine databases, following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Original cross-sectional and experimental studies involving military populations were included. Data were categorised into thematic areas based on recurrence and similarity of outcomes and tools. From 2,633 initial records, 138 studies were included. Seventeen major thematic areas were identified, with “Mental Health,” “Fatigue Parameters,” “Physical Capacity,” and “Sleep Disturbances” being the most represented. Several tools were used to assess OTS signs; however, a lack of standardisation, particularly in the military context, was evident. Notably, most studies involved combat-exposed personnel, including active-duty service members deployed in operational environments and veterans with prior combat experience. The findings also revealed substantial conceptual overlap between trauma-related constructs and training-related maladaptation. Despite the growing interest in OTS among military personnel, the lack of standardised, validated tools for early detection remains a limitation. Developing context-specific strategies is essential to enhance monitoring, diagnosis, and prevention of OTS, especially in non-combat settings.
The influence of personal characteristics on the motivation of athletes and sports practitioners: A narrative review
Motivation is a central factor in adherence, persistence, and performance in the sports context and is influenced by individual and contextual variables. Despite the extensive scientific production, the literature is fragmented regarding the integration of motivation, personality traits, age, sex, and level of sports experience. The present study aimed to integrate and synthesise evidence on the influence of personal characteristics on the motivation of athletes and sports practitioners through a narrative review. Studies published between 2004 and 2024, identified in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases, were analysed. The literature synthesis was framed by classical models of motivation, such as Self-Determination Theory, Achievement Goal Theory, and Achievement Motivation Theory, articulated with the Five-Factor Theory of Personality. The results indicate that traits such as extraversion, conscientiousness, and emotional stability are associated with more self-determined forms of motivation and higher performance levels, especially in highly competitive contexts. Age and sports experience are determinants of motivational orientation, reflecting changes in goals and motives throughout the life cycle. Differences between sexes and between individual and team sports appear context-dependent, showing distinct patterns of motivation and personality. It is concluded that sports motivation emerges from the interaction between personal and contextual characteristics, highlighting its contribution to the understanding of motivational behaviour and sports well-being.