This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in sports performance analysis. Sixteen peer-reviewed studies spanning 13 distinct sports disciplines were included, employing a variety of AI techniques—from classical machine learning algorithms to advanced deep learning and computer vision models. Methods applied encompassed Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, reinforcement learning, and predictive modeling architectures. The pooled average classification accuracy was 87.78% (95% CI: 82.66–92.90), although substantial heterogeneity was observed across studies (I² = 93.75%). Computer vision and deep learning-based approaches were associated with higher performance metrics in several studies, particularly in movement-intensive sports such as tennis and basketball. Nevertheless, several challenges were identified, including lack of standardization in model evaluation, limited algorithmic transparency, and difficulties in generalizing findings from controlled laboratory environments to real-world competitive settings. The results underscore the promising role of AI in optimizing training protocols, supporting tactical decisions, and enhancing injury prevention strategies. Further research is warranted to address the ethical, methodological, and practical considerations surrounding the deployment of AI in sports contexts.

Background/Objectives: Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) has been explored for its potential to improve general performance in combat sports. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of PAPE protocols on physical performance, focusing on differences across disciplines, competitive levels, and testing methods. Methods: A PRISMA-guided search (2010–2023) identified 19 studies examining PAPE protocols in combat sports athletes. The inclusion criteria required human trials using defined PAPE protocols, with outcomes of general performance indicators such as countermovement jumps (CMJs). A meta-analysis was conducted on data from 866 athletes using random effects modeling. Results: The PAPE protocols yielded a pooled effect size of 0.136 (95% CI, 0.008–0.263) across 866 athletes. Taekwondo athletes exhibited the most pronounced improvements in CMJ performance, particularly when using protocols that combined repeated vertical jumps with heavy-resistance cluster sets, and with dynamic, sport-specific movements such as the bandal chagui protocol achieving an effect size of 1.19 (p < 0.001). Conversely, Muay Thai athletes experienced performance declines when the protocols incorporated highly specific techniques, such as roundhouse kicks (ES = −1.36, p = 0.009). Analysis by competitive level revealed pooled effect sizes of 0.14 (95% CI, −0.01 to 0.29) for amateur athletes and 0.13 (95% CI, −0.11 to 0.38) for elite athletes, with no statistically significant differences observed between these groups. Conclusions: PAPE’s effectiveness depends on tailoring protocols to the competitive level and discipline. Short rest intervals support plyometric protocols for amateurs, while heavy-resistance exercises enhance elite performers. Further research is needed to standardize PAPE protocols and explore discipline-specific adaptations.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Biofeedback Training in normoxic and normobaric hypoxic conditions on reaction times in judo athletes. Material and methods: The participants in the experimental group underwent thetha/beta1 training under simulated hypoxic conditions in a laboratory equipped with a normobaric hypoxia generation system (LOS-HYP1/3NU, Lowoxygen Systems, Germany), at a simulated altitude of 2500m above sea level (FiO2 = 15.5%). Each cycle of the study consisted of 15 training sessions. The training sessions lasted for 20 minutes, with 4 sets of 4 minutes each and a 1-minute break in between. In the initial phase, participants underwent EEG biofeedback training every other day. The control group followed the same frequency and duration of EEG biofeedback training sessions as the experimental group and demonstrated an identical pattern, but under normoxia conditions. Results: The results indicated significant differences in Theta/Beta ratio values after the 5th, 11th, and 15th training sessions between the hypoxia and normoxia groups. Moreover, theta/beta1 protocol in normobaric hypoxic conditions statistically significantly improved their complex reaction times after each training cycle compared to the control group in normoxia conditions. Conclusions: The findings indicate that neurofeedback training in normobaric hypoxia conditions may considerably enhance reaction skills, particularly complex reactions, in a sports context.

This study investigated the effects of a 10-week plyometric training program on sprint performance, reactive power, and biomechanical muscle properties in soccer players. Twenty soccer players were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 10) or a control group (n = 10). Both groups maintained their regular weekly training, with the experimental group performing additional plyometric sessions twice weekly. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included 5 m and 30 m sprint times, Reactive Strength Index (RSI), and biomechanical properties (tension, stiffness, elasticity) of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL). The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in 5 m (p < 0.01; ES = 1.44) and 30 m (p < 0.01; ES = 1.11) sprint times and RSI (p < 0.05; ES = 0.87). No significant changes were observed in muscle tension, stiffness, or elasticity at the group level. However, correlations indicated that higher baseline elasticity in the VL was linked to greater 5 m sprint improvements, while changes in RF elasticity were negatively associated with 5 m sprint gains. These findings suggest that plyometric training effectively enhances short-distance sprint performance and reactive power in soccer players. Although group-level biomechanical properties did not change significantly, individual variability in muscle elasticity may modulate training outcomes, supporting the integration of plyometric exercises into soccer training regimens.

Ice hockey requires two levels of specific agility, involving different abilities, where the level of agility and their constraints might vary by the performance level. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the relationship level between on-ice and off-ice change of directional speed (COD) of youth hockey players at two performance levels. The study was conducted during the hockey season, including U16 elite players (n = 40) and U16 sub-elite players (n = 23). Both groups performed specific on-ice fitness tests (4-m acceleration, 30-m sprint, and 6 x 54-m tests, an on-ice Illinois agility test with and without a puck) and off-ice tests consisting of non-arm swing countermovement jumps (CMJs), broad jumps, and pull-ups. Pearson correlation showed that the acceleration performance of elite players was related to the CMJ (r = −0.46) and the broad jump (r = −0.31). Sub-elite players showed stronger dependence of the 30-m sprint on the CMJ (r = −0.77) and the broad jump (r = −0.43), the relation of pulls ups (r = −0.62) and the CMJ (r = −0.50) to the 6 x 54-m test, yet no association to acceleration. Elite players differ between off-ice and on-ice performance constraints, where their skating sprint is less related to their vertical and horizontal take-off abilities than in sub-elite players. Sub-elite players’ off-ice power determines their sprint and repeated sprint performance. COD performance of elite and sub-elite players is based on different conditioning constraints.

Gepfert, M, Terbalyan, A, Roczniok, R, and Gołaś, A. The effects of in-season complex contrast training on anaerobic performance metrics in elite female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 40(5): e491–e499, 2026—The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of in-season complex contrast training (CCT) on speed, power, and anaerobic capacity metrics in elite female soccer players. Twenty-one players participated in a 3-phase study conducted across the postpreparatory period, midseason, and postseason. Testing included countermovement jump, single-leg jump, 5 and 30 m sprints, and the repeated anaerobic sprint test (RAST). Weekly complex training sessions combined resistance exercises with plyometric drills. Significant improvements were observed in anaerobic performance midseason compared with the preparatory phase (RAST 1, p = 0.0073, d [Cohen's d ES] = 0.45; 30 m sprint, p = 0.0073, d = 0.81), followed by performance declines at the end of the season. Peak RAST metrics improved significantly midseason (e.g., RAST 2, p = 0.025, d = 0.81; RAST 3, p = 0.0083, d = 0.95), but no changes were observed for concentric peak velocity ( p = 0.98) or rate of force development ( p = 0.37). The findings demonstrate that complex contrast training effectively enhances power and anaerobic performance during the midseason but may require strategic load management to mitigate late-season fatigue-related declines. A single weekly session of CCT seems sufficient to maintain, and in some instances improve, physical performance across the season. However, without a comparison group, it is unclear whether it is more or less effective than other training methods.