An innovative moderate-intensity resistive exercise-training (RT) program was tested in thirty-five sarcopenic elders (SAR). The subjects were randomized into two groups: SAR training (SAR-RT), n = 20, 73.0 ± 5.5 years, or SAR non-training (SAR-NT), n = 15, 71.7 ± 3.4 years. The training consisted of 12-week progressive RT, thrice/week, at 60% one-repetition maximum (1RM), 3 sets, 14–16 repetitions for both upper and lower limbs. The pre and post intervention measurements included: the skeletal muscle index (SMI%); strength (1RM); stair-climbing power (SCP); muscle thickness (MT) of vastus lateralis (VL) and elbow flexors (EF), VL pennation angle (PA), rectus femoris (RF) anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA); reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), protein carbonyls (PC), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), 8-isoprostane (8-iso-PGF2-α), 8-OH-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), as markers of oxidative stress/damage (OxS). In SAR-RT, SCP increased by 7.7% (P < 0.01), MT increased by 5.5% for VL, 10.4% for EF and PA increased by 13.4% for VL (P < 0.001 for all). The RF ACSA increased by 14.5% (P < 0.001). 1RM significantly increased by at least 67% for all muscles tested. Notably muscle strength (1RM) positively correlated (P < 0.001) with TAC and negatively with PC (P < 0.001). In conclusion, moderate intensity RT is an effective strategy to increase muscle mass and strength in SAR, while minimizing OxS.

Background: The pedagogical paradigm (PP) is a complex framework encompassing various pedagogical elements integral to the instructional and educational process. These paradigms manifest in diverse forms without entirely replacing their precursor frameworks, as they are built upon established principles and concepts. Understanding the architectural structure of each paradigm is crucial in distinguishing these pedagogical models. Objective: This exposition aims to provide a rationale for the integration of the pedagogical paradigm within the realm of PE. Methods: In the literature review, the EBSCO database was utilized via SPORTDiscus. This theoretical review draws upon various scholarly sources, including Taylor and Francis, ERIC, Scopus, Google Scholar These repositories provide a global perspective, with the majority of references selected from the decade leading up to the onset of the pandemic. Results: The literature analysis reveals the intricate nature of pedagogical paradigms and their importance in the field of PE. It underscores the need for instructors to adapt their teaching approaches to meet the specific needs of students based on their age and developmental stage. The integration of the pedagogical paradigm within PE is proposed as a valuable concept to enhance the quality of physical education programs. Conclusion: The incorporation of the PP into the domain of PE holds promise for improving the effectiveness of PE instruction. This review, based on a thorough examination of pertinent literature, highlights the relevance of PP in adapting teaching methodologies to suit the diverse needs of students. While this study does not provide empirical evidence, it lays the theoretical groundwork for future research and practical applications in the field of PE. Further investigations and practical implementations are warranted to assess the feasibility and benefits of incorporating PP within PE instruction.

The historical exploration of the body in sports hinges upon the value attributed to the body throughout time and converges various social science approaches, encompassing philosophical, religious, educational perspectives, and intersecting histories that involve political, sociological, economic, and medical dimensions. Sports, as a multifaceted cultural phenomenon, hold profound sociocultural significance, reflecting prevailing attitudes towards the human body. The study of body image in sports history becomes a nexus where anthropology, sociology, psychology, and sports science converge, offering valuable insights into the evolution of body ideals and their implications on athlete identity. This examination delves deep into the annals of sports history, unearthing the evolving notions of body image and its impact on athlete identity, shedding light on the implications of historical body image ideals for contemporary sports culture and proposing recommendations for fostering a positive body image and identity in sports. The objectives of this narrative review include unearthing the historical evolution of body image ideals, examining the influence of societal norms on perceptions of athletic bodies throughout history, unravelling the role of media, technology, and popular culture in shaping body image ideals in sports, and identifying the intimate connection between body image and athlete identity, exploring its profound ramifications on athletic performance and overall well-being. By synthesizing findings from existing systematic reviews and scholarly works, this exploration aims to illuminate the intricate interplay between sporting bodies and societal norms throughout history and their enduring legacy on sports culture in the present day.

Background: Body composition and physical performance assessments are crucial for optimizing athletic performance in volleyball. This observational study aimed to provide preliminary comprehensive physical fitness profiles of elite female volleyball players, integrating bioimpedance vector analysis (BIVA) with established field-based fitness tests. Methods: Twenty-four elite female volleyball players (23.4 ± 3.7 years) underwent assessment for body composition parameters using the BIA 101 BIVA Pro (Akern, Italy). Field-based performance evaluations included handgrip strength, 20 m shuttle run test (for cardiorespiratory fitness), T-test (for change of direction speed), and sit-and-reach (for flexibility). BIVA was employed to assess hydration status and cell mass properties. This cross-sectional study adhered to STROBE guidelines. Results: Mean weight and height were 72.6 ± 6.2 kg and 182.7 ± 5.4 cm, respectively. BIVA analysis indicated that players generally clustered within the 75% tolerance ellipse, suggesting body composition characteristics consistent with elite athletic performance. Significant correlations were observed between phase angle (PhA 6.8° ± 0.4°) and handgrip strength (HGS 33.2 ± 4.8 kg) ( r = 0.73, P < 0.001), and between 20 m shuttle run test performance (level 9.8 ± 1.2) and resistance-reactance (R-Xc) graph positioning ( r = –0.64, P < 0.001). Positional differences were identified for several body composition and performance metrics. For instance, outside hitters demonstrated significantly higher estimated aerobic capacity (SRT levels) compared to middle blockers and setters, while middle blockers exhibited greater strength values (e.g., higher PhA than setters and liberos). Conclusions: These initial findings provide preliminary BIVA patterns and physical performance parameters for elite female volleyball players, acknowledging the study’s sample size limitations. Phase angle emerges as a promising marker associated with strength capacity. The integrated application of BIVA and field-based assessments offers a practical, initial framework for monitoring training adaptations and informing individualized training approaches in elite volleyball. Further research with larger, more diverse cohorts is warranted to confirm and expand upon these findings.