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Knee pads have become increasingly popular among volleyball players. Given the fact high-intensity activities that are crucial to successfully playing this sport lead to an increased risk of a knee injury, the primary use of knee pads is to prevent potential injury. However, no research has been carried out to explain the effects of knee pads on the most important physical abilities in volleyball players, thus directly affecting performance. This study was undertaken to determine the effects of knee pads on the explosive power of the lower extremities, linear speed, and agility in young female volleyball players. In two separated sessions, 84 female volleyball players (age: 14.83 ± 0.72 years; height: 163.19 ± 8.38 cm; body mass: 53.64 ± 10.42 kg; VE: 5.30 ± 3.39 years) completed squat jumps (SJ), countermovement jumps (CMJ) with and without arm swing, linear sprints at 5-m and 10-m, modified t-test, and 5-10-5 shuttle test. Data analyses included descriptive statistics, paired sample T-tests and use of effect size (ES). There was no statistical difference between the two conditions for SJ (p = 0.156; ES = 0.18), CMJ (p = 0.817; ES = 0.03), CMJ with arm swing (p = 0.194; ES = 0.14), linear sprint at 5 m (p = 0.789; ES = 0.03) and 10 m (p = 0.907; ES = −0.01), modified t-test (p = 0.284; ES = 0.13), and 5-10-5 shuttle test (p = 0.144; ES = 0.19). Wearing knee pads has neither an inhibitory nor positive effects on explosive power of the lower extremities, linear speed, and agility in young female volleyball players.
Anja Lazić; Milovan Bratić; Stevan Stamenković; Slobodan Andrašić; Nenad Stojiljković; Nebojša Trajković. Knee Pads Do Not Affect Physical Performance in Young Female Volleyball Players. Children 2021, 8, 748 .
AMA StyleAnja Lazić, Milovan Bratić, Stevan Stamenković, Slobodan Andrašić, Nenad Stojiljković, Nebojša Trajković. Knee Pads Do Not Affect Physical Performance in Young Female Volleyball Players. Children. 2021; 8 (9):748.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAnja Lazić; Milovan Bratić; Stevan Stamenković; Slobodan Andrašić; Nenad Stojiljković; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Knee Pads Do Not Affect Physical Performance in Young Female Volleyball Players." Children 8, no. 9: 748.
The present study is aimed at determining the effects of intensity-modified recreational volleyball training on health markers and physical fitness in healthy middle-aged men. Thirty-four healthy untrained men aged 25–55 years were randomized to either a modified recreational volleyball group (MRV, n = 17 ) or a recreational volleyball group (RV, n = 17 ). Both groups performed volleyball training twice a week over 12 weeks, with participants in MRV playing a modified game with higher intensity due to shorter breaks between rallies. The small to moderate improvements of both groups were observed in SBP (MRV g av = − 0.50 [-0.67, -0.33] vs. RV g av = − 0.37 [-0.55, -0.20]) to a similar extent ( p = 0.12 ). However, only the MRV significantly improved ( p < 0.001 ) the mean body weight ( g av = − 0.35 [-0.52, -0.18]) and BMI ( g av = − 0.39 [-0.56, -0.22]) to a moderate extent and the YYIR1 performance ( g av = 2.45 [2.22, 2.69]) to a large extent. Even though both groups significantly improved the rest HR, the mean change of rest HR was significantly greater in MRV as compared to the RV ( p < 0.001 , ŋ p 2 = 0.47 ). The study revealed that an intensity-modified type of recreational volleyball, involving shorter breaks between rallies, improves cardiorespiratory fitness and health markers for men aged 25–55 years.
Goran Vasić; Nebojša Trajković; Draženka Mačak; Tine Sattler; Peter Krustrup; Nikola Starčević; Goran Sporiš; Špela Bogataj. Intensity-Modified Recreational Volleyball Training Improves Health Markers and Physical Fitness in 25–55-Year-Old Men. BioMed Research International 2021, 2021, 1 -9.
AMA StyleGoran Vasić, Nebojša Trajković, Draženka Mačak, Tine Sattler, Peter Krustrup, Nikola Starčević, Goran Sporiš, Špela Bogataj. Intensity-Modified Recreational Volleyball Training Improves Health Markers and Physical Fitness in 25–55-Year-Old Men. BioMed Research International. 2021; 2021 ():1-9.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGoran Vasić; Nebojša Trajković; Draženka Mačak; Tine Sattler; Peter Krustrup; Nikola Starčević; Goran Sporiš; Špela Bogataj. 2021. "Intensity-Modified Recreational Volleyball Training Improves Health Markers and Physical Fitness in 25–55-Year-Old Men." BioMed Research International 2021, no. : 1-9.
There are a plethora of studies investigating agility in soccer; however, studies have rarely presented the reaction time in differentiating age groups in adolescent soccer players. We investigated age differences in reactive agility, speed, and change of direction speed (CODs), in a group of highly trained adolescent soccer players. A total of 75 adolescent male soccer players (aged 14–19 years) were recruited. The players were grouped based on their age to under 15 (U15; n = 27), under 17 (U17; n = 25), and under 19 (U19; n = 23) players. Players were tested for 5 m, 10 m, and 20 m sprint, CODs speed test, Illinois test, and reactive agility test (total and reaction time). Only the reactive agility test with a live tester (RAT live) and RAT live reaction time (RAT live RT) distinguished U19 from both groups, U17 (RAT live, p< 0.01; RAT RT live, p< 0.01) and U15 (RAT live, p< 0.01; RAT RT live, p< 0.01). Groups did not have different times for 5 m sprint, RAT light and RAT RT light, F = 0.472, 2.691, 1.023, respectively, p > 0.05. Moreover, a significantly slower average performance of sprint 20, CODs left and right, and Illinois was also observed in U15 as compared to U17 and U19 (p< 0.05). We can conclude that results in agility tests that include live testers can be a significant factor that differentiates between adolescent soccer players considering their age.
Slobodan Andrašić; Marko Gušić; Mima Stanković; Draženka Mačak; Asim Bradić; Goran Sporiš; Nebojša Trajković. Speed, Change of Direction Speed and Reactive Agility in Adolescent Soccer Players: Age Related Differences. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 5883 .
AMA StyleSlobodan Andrašić, Marko Gušić, Mima Stanković, Draženka Mačak, Asim Bradić, Goran Sporiš, Nebojša Trajković. Speed, Change of Direction Speed and Reactive Agility in Adolescent Soccer Players: Age Related Differences. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (11):5883.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSlobodan Andrašić; Marko Gušić; Mima Stanković; Draženka Mačak; Asim Bradić; Goran Sporiš; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Speed, Change of Direction Speed and Reactive Agility in Adolescent Soccer Players: Age Related Differences." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 11: 5883.
The aim of the study was to examine changes in obesity prevalence among primary school children in Serbia between 2015 and 2019 rounds of the national WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI-Serbia). Cross-sectional studies were conducted in 2015 and 2019. The nationally representative samples of primary school children were measured for body height and weight, following the COSI protocol. Body Mass Index was calculated, and the IOTF and WHO definitions were used to classify children as overweight or obese. Participants were children of both sexes aged 7.00–8.99 years (n = 6105). Significant differences in overweight (obesity included) prevalence between two COSI rounds were identified regardless of definitions applied. According to the WHO definitions, prevalence of overweight and obesity combined increased in 7–9-year-old children in Serbia from 30.7% in 2015 to 34.8% in 2019 (z = −3.309, p< 0.05), and according to the IOTF standards, the increase from 22.8% to 30% was registered (z = −6.08, p = 0.00). The childhood overweight/obesity rate is increasing in Serbia, which places monitoring and surveillance of children’s nutritional status high on the public health agenda.
Lidija Marković; Višnja Đorđić; Nebojša Trajković; Predrag Božić; Szabolcs Halaši; Dragan Cvejić; Sergej Ostojić. Childhood Obesity in Serbia on the Rise. Children 2021, 8, 409 .
AMA StyleLidija Marković, Višnja Đorđić, Nebojša Trajković, Predrag Božić, Szabolcs Halaši, Dragan Cvejić, Sergej Ostojić. Childhood Obesity in Serbia on the Rise. Children. 2021; 8 (5):409.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLidija Marković; Višnja Đorđić; Nebojša Trajković; Predrag Božić; Szabolcs Halaši; Dragan Cvejić; Sergej Ostojić. 2021. "Childhood Obesity in Serbia on the Rise." Children 8, no. 5: 409.
There is a strong relationship between body composition and performance in male soccer players. This study aimed to display an optimal body height and weight, and body composition profile of male soccer players for four competitive age groups. This cross-sectional study included four groups: U-15 (n = 152), U-17 (n = 154), U-19 (n = 61), and seniors (n = 27). Body height and weight were measured under standard conditions, and the bioelectrical impedance analyzer (BIA) analyzed body composition. On average, soccer players in the U-15 group had significantly lower body height, weight, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass, fat-free mass, total body water and basal metabolic rate than U-17, U-19 and seniors, but a higher percentage of body fat than U-17 and U-19, p < 0.05. In addition, the results show significant non-linear increases in body height, weight and body composition as the age of soccer players increases, with the exception of the percentage of body fat mass, which tends to significantly decrease with age. The main findings of this study are that body fat mass remains stable and similar across all age groups, including in the senior squad.
Marijan Spehnjak; Marko Gušić; Slavko Molnar; Mario Baić; Slobodan Andrašić; Musa Selimi; Draženka Mačak; Dejan Madić; Suzana Žilič Fišer; Goran Sporiš; Nebojša Trajković. Body Composition in Elite Soccer Players from Youth to Senior Squad. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 4982 .
AMA StyleMarijan Spehnjak, Marko Gušić, Slavko Molnar, Mario Baić, Slobodan Andrašić, Musa Selimi, Draženka Mačak, Dejan Madić, Suzana Žilič Fišer, Goran Sporiš, Nebojša Trajković. Body Composition in Elite Soccer Players from Youth to Senior Squad. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (9):4982.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarijan Spehnjak; Marko Gušić; Slavko Molnar; Mario Baić; Slobodan Andrašić; Musa Selimi; Draženka Mačak; Dejan Madić; Suzana Žilič Fišer; Goran Sporiš; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Body Composition in Elite Soccer Players from Youth to Senior Squad." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 9: 4982.
The role of the measurements of postural stability in the context of screening for ankle sprain risk is still equivocal. Transient characteristics of body sway have been suggested as an alternative or an improvement to traditional whole-trial analyses. Are transient characteristics of body sway sensitive to the history of ankle sprain?. The assessment of 30-s single-leg body sway was performed on a group of 93 athletes from basketball, soccer, tennis and running who reported at least 1 ankle sprain in the last 12 months, while a group of 244 athletes from the same disciplines served as a control group without an ankle sprain reported for the same time period. We considered the mean center-of-pressure (CoP) velocity, CoP amplitude and CoP frequency. In addition to traditional whole-trial variables, we calculated the relative differences between the 1 st and the 2nd (DIF_21) and 1 st and 3rd (DIF_31) 10-s time intervals within the whole trial. The indexes of transient characteristics of body sway (i.e., the DIF_21 and DIF_31) were in trivial or weak correlations with whole-trial variables (all r ≤ 0.29). Athletes with ankle sprain history exhibited smaller CoP ML velocity (p = 0.002) and larger CoP ML frequency (p = 0.001). In the injured group, the injured leg exhibited lower total and medial-lateral (ML) CoP velocity (p = 0.005−0.040), as well as lower CoP ML amplitude (p = 0.002) and higher CoP ML frequency (p = 0.010). The transient characteristics of body sway (DIF_21 and DIF_31) were very similar between the groups and between the injured and uninjured legs. Transient characteristics of body sway do not appear to differentiate the athletes with and without a history of ankle sprain. Further research is needed to confirm if the transient characteristics of body sway could be used for detection of risk of falls in older adults or assessment of athletic performance.
Žiga Kozinc; Nebojša Trajković; Nejc Šarabon. Transient characteristics of body sway during single-leg stance in athletes with a history of ankle sprain. Gait & Posture 2021, 86, 205 -210.
AMA StyleŽiga Kozinc, Nebojša Trajković, Nejc Šarabon. Transient characteristics of body sway during single-leg stance in athletes with a history of ankle sprain. Gait & Posture. 2021; 86 ():205-210.
Chicago/Turabian StyleŽiga Kozinc; Nebojša Trajković; Nejc Šarabon. 2021. "Transient characteristics of body sway during single-leg stance in athletes with a history of ankle sprain." Gait & Posture 86, no. : 205-210.
Background: Monitoring of physical activity within the educational institution is of great importance, primarily because of the orientation and content implemented in the daycare. This research aimed to examine the number of steps children took during their stay in daycare with regards to age, gender and the frequency of going out. Methods: The research was conducted in four daycares in the urban environment of Novi Sad (Republic of Serbia), where 231 children, aged 5 to 7, were monitored (129 boys and 102 girls). Data on the number of steps were obtained using the pedometers. Results: The result of the univariate analysis of the variance test confirmed a statistically significant difference in the number of steps in relation to the age of children (p = 0.04). Boys were more active than girls in both age groups (p = 0.001). Children who were going to the daycare yard three to five times a week took drastically more steps than children who went up to twice a week (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The results of the current study show that age, gender, and time spent outdoors are significant determinants of physical activity in preschool age. Therefore, interventions regarding physical activity should be made during early childhood in order to promote health and prevent disease.
Milenko Janković; Maja Batez; Dušan Stupar; Jelena Obradović; Nebojša Trajković. Physical Activity of Serbian Children in Daycare. Children 2021, 8, 161 .
AMA StyleMilenko Janković, Maja Batez, Dušan Stupar, Jelena Obradović, Nebojša Trajković. Physical Activity of Serbian Children in Daycare. Children. 2021; 8 (2):161.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMilenko Janković; Maja Batez; Dušan Stupar; Jelena Obradović; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Physical Activity of Serbian Children in Daycare." Children 8, no. 2: 161.
Children in schools are facing many academic challenges. Moreover, there is constant pressure on children and parents to maximize academic achievement. We aimed to determine the relationship between motor competence, physical fitness, and academic achievement in young school-aged children. Participants were 130 elementary school children ( mean ± SD 8.60 ± 0.61 years; 51 boys and 79 girls) from Serbia. The KTK (Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder) battery of tests was used to assess the motor competence in children; children’ physical fitness was assessed using the EUROFIT battery of tests, while academic achievement was assessed based on the children’s GPA (grade point average) scores at the end of the school year. Pearson’s r showed the weak to moderate relationships between the GPA and motor competence and physical fitness measures. The GPA correlates positively and significantly with almost all motor competence and physical fitness measures, but negatively with BMI ( p ≤ 0.05 ). However, the hierarchical linear regression indicated only the plate tapping and sit and reach as the significant predictors of the GPA. Although both tests positively affect the GPA, the plate tapping ( B = − 0.22 , p = 0.02 ) tends to influence the GPA more than the sit and reach test ( B = 0.18 , p = 0.04 ) after adjusting for effects of motor competence ( B = 0.19 , p = 0.03 ), age ( B = − 0.01 , p = 0.89 ), and BMI ( B = − 0.19 , p = 0.03 ). This study provides evidence demonstrating that academic achievement is generally associated with physical fitness and motor competence in children. However, plate taping and sit and reach were accounted as the most important predictors for academic achievement.
Maja Batez; Živan Milošević; Ivan Mikulić; Goran Sporiš; Draženka Mačak; Nebojša Trajković. Relationship between Motor Competence, Physical Fitness, and Academic Achievement in Young School-Aged Children. BioMed Research International 2021, 2021, 1 -7.
AMA StyleMaja Batez, Živan Milošević, Ivan Mikulić, Goran Sporiš, Draženka Mačak, Nebojša Trajković. Relationship between Motor Competence, Physical Fitness, and Academic Achievement in Young School-Aged Children. BioMed Research International. 2021; 2021 ():1-7.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaja Batez; Živan Milošević; Ivan Mikulić; Goran Sporiš; Draženka Mačak; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Relationship between Motor Competence, Physical Fitness, and Academic Achievement in Young School-Aged Children." BioMed Research International 2021, no. : 1-7.
Regular exercise during school hours is encouraged since childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions. Moreover, a great majority of adolescents do not meet the recommendations for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. The present study aimed to determine the effects of school-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and nutrition intervention on body composition and physical fitness in overweight adolescent girls. Forty-eight girls were included in the study, of whom 24 (age = 15.5 ± 0.7 years) were randomized to a experimental group (EXP) (HIIT and nutrition intervention school-based program) and 24 (age = 15.7 ± 0.6 years) to a control group (CON) that maintained their usual physical education activities. HIIT consisted of 10 stations of own bodyweight exercise and was done three times per week for eight weeks. Moreover, the EXP participated in the nutrition program led by a nutritionist two times a week. Apart from body composition assessment, participants performed countermovement jump (CMJ), medicine ball throw, hand-grip test, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 Test (YYIRT1). A significant effect of group (EXP vs. CON) x time (pre vs. post) interaction was observed for weight [F(1,44) = 7.733; p = 0.008], body mass index [F(1,44) = 5.764; p = 0.020], body fat (in kg) [F(1,44) = 17.850; p < 0.001], and body fat (in %) [F(1,44) = 18.821; p < 0.001]. Moreover, a significant interaction was observed for the medicine ball throw [F(1,44) = 27.016; p < 0.001] and YYIRT1 [F(1,44) = 5.439; p = 0.024]. A significant main effect for time was found for hand grip [F(1,44) = 9.300; p = 0.004] and CMJ [F(1,44) = 12.866; p = 0.001].The present study has demonstrated that just eight weeks school-based HIIT and nutrition intervention, including three sessions a week, can improve body composition and muscular and physical aerobic performance in overweighted adolescent girls.
Špela Bogataj; Nebojša Trajković; Cristina Cadenas-Sanchez; Vedrana Sember. Effects of School-Based Exercise and Nutrition Intervention on Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Overweight Adolescent Girls. Nutrients 2021, 13, 238 .
AMA StyleŠpela Bogataj, Nebojša Trajković, Cristina Cadenas-Sanchez, Vedrana Sember. Effects of School-Based Exercise and Nutrition Intervention on Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Overweight Adolescent Girls. Nutrients. 2021; 13 (1):238.
Chicago/Turabian StyleŠpela Bogataj; Nebojša Trajković; Cristina Cadenas-Sanchez; Vedrana Sember. 2021. "Effects of School-Based Exercise and Nutrition Intervention on Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Overweight Adolescent Girls." Nutrients 13, no. 1: 238.
This study investigated the effects of the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) model implemented in physical education classes on volleyball skills and enjoyment in secondary school students. A total of 54 students (18 girls) from two classes participated in this study, of whom 28 (age = 15.5 ± 0.7 years) were randomized to a TGfU model (EXP) group and 26 (age = 15.7 ± 0.6 years) to a control group (CON) that maintained their usual physical-education activities. Four tests for volleyball skills were conducted: service, overhead, and forearm passing and setting. Additionally, the sport enjoyment questionnaire was used the first and the last week of intervention. Results from repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant interaction for overhead passing (F 1, 58 = 5.273, p = 0.025, Partial ƞ2 = 0.083) and forearm passing (F 1, 58 = 4.641, p = 0.035, Partial ƞ2 = 0.074). When examining the impact of TGfU program on service accuracy, there was a significant main effect for time (p < 0.01) with both groups improving their result after the six-weeks intervention (EXP-ES = 0.32, % change = 9.1% vs. CON-ES = 0.57, % change = 14.4%). There were no significant time or group x time effects for setting (p ˃ 0.05). The EXP group showed significantly better results for enjoyment compared to the CON group (p ≤ 0.05). The findings show the effectiveness of the TGfU model of short duration (12 lessons) in an educational context to improve volleyball skills. We also highlight the importance of enjoyment during these classes compared to traditional physical education classes.
Maja Batez; Tanja Petrušič; Špela Bogataj; Nebojša Trajković. Effects of Teaching Program Based on Teaching Games for Understanding Model on Volleyball Skills and Enjoyment in Secondary School Students. Sustainability 2021, 13, 606 .
AMA StyleMaja Batez, Tanja Petrušič, Špela Bogataj, Nebojša Trajković. Effects of Teaching Program Based on Teaching Games for Understanding Model on Volleyball Skills and Enjoyment in Secondary School Students. Sustainability. 2021; 13 (2):606.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaja Batez; Tanja Petrušič; Špela Bogataj; Nebojša Trajković. 2021. "Effects of Teaching Program Based on Teaching Games for Understanding Model on Volleyball Skills and Enjoyment in Secondary School Students." Sustainability 13, no. 2: 606.
Functional movement is an important part of developing athletes’ but also untrained individuals’ performance. Its monitoring also proved useful in identifying functional limitations and asymmetries, and also in determining the intervention effects. The quasi-experimental pre-test post-test study investigated the effects of core stability training program on the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) score in untrained students after six weeks. The intervention (INT) and control (CG) groups included 73 and 65 male students, respectively. Functional movement patterns were evaluated using the FMS including seven components scores representing seven basic functional patterns. Both groups significantly improved almost all FMS components scores, but the INT increased the mean performance of the hurdle step (partial ŋ2 × 100 = 4%, p = 0.02), in-line lunge (partial ŋ2 × 100 = 3%, p = 0.05), rotatory stability (partial ŋ2 × 100 = 4%, p = 0.02) and total FMS (partial ŋ2 × 100 = 3%, p = 0.04) significantly more than the CG. This justifies that core strengthening can improve FMS in untrained individuals even with the short duration programs.
Tijana Šćepanović; Branka Protić-Gava; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Rupčić; Zvonko Miljković; Konstantinos Liapikos; Draženka Mačak; Dejan M. Madić; Nebojša Trajković. Short-Term Core Strengthening Program Improves Functional Movement Score in Untrained College Students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 8669 .
AMA StyleTijana Šćepanović, Branka Protić-Gava, Goran Sporiš, Tomislav Rupčić, Zvonko Miljković, Konstantinos Liapikos, Draženka Mačak, Dejan M. Madić, Nebojša Trajković. Short-Term Core Strengthening Program Improves Functional Movement Score in Untrained College Students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (22):8669.
Chicago/Turabian StyleTijana Šćepanović; Branka Protić-Gava; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Rupčić; Zvonko Miljković; Konstantinos Liapikos; Draženka Mačak; Dejan M. Madić; Nebojša Trajković. 2020. "Short-Term Core Strengthening Program Improves Functional Movement Score in Untrained College Students." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 22: 8669.
Swimming is a form of physical activity and a life-saving skill. However, only a few studies have identified swimming ability classifiers in preschool children. This pilot cross-sectional study aimed to find anthropometric (AM) and motor competence (MC) predictors of swimming ability in preschool children, by building classifiers of swimming ability group (SAG) membership. We recruited 92 children (girls n = 45) aged 5–6 years and took the AM and MC measurements in accordance with the reference manual and using the KTK battery test (motor quotient, MQ), respectively. A linear discriminant analysis tested a classification model of preschoolers’ swimming ability (SAG: POOR, GOOD, EXCELLENT) based on gender, age, AM, and MC variables and extracted one significant canonical discriminant function (model fit: 61.2%) that can differentiate (group centroids) POOR (−1.507), GOOD (0.032), and EXCELLENT (1.524). The MQ total was identified as a significant classifier, which absolutely contributed to the discriminant function that classifies children’s swimming ability as POOR (standardized canonical coefficient: 1.186), GOOD (1.363), or EXCELLENT (1.535) with an accuracy of 64.1%. Children with higher MQ total ought to be classified into higher SAG; thus, the classification model of SAG based on the MQ total is presented.
Ilir Gllareva; Nebojša Trajković; Draženka Mačak; Tijana Šćepanović; Anja Kostić Zobenica; Aleksandar Pajić; Besim Halilaj; Florim Gallopeni; Dejan M. Madić. Anthropometric and Motor Competence Classifiers of Swimming Ability in Preschool Children—A Pilot Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 6331 .
AMA StyleIlir Gllareva, Nebojša Trajković, Draženka Mačak, Tijana Šćepanović, Anja Kostić Zobenica, Aleksandar Pajić, Besim Halilaj, Florim Gallopeni, Dejan M. Madić. Anthropometric and Motor Competence Classifiers of Swimming Ability in Preschool Children—A Pilot Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (17):6331.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlir Gllareva; Nebojša Trajković; Draženka Mačak; Tijana Šćepanović; Anja Kostić Zobenica; Aleksandar Pajić; Besim Halilaj; Florim Gallopeni; Dejan M. Madić. 2020. "Anthropometric and Motor Competence Classifiers of Swimming Ability in Preschool Children—A Pilot Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 17: 6331.
The early detection and continuous monitoring of children’s motor competence levels and physical fitness is very important. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in motor coordination of children enrolled in soccer and multisport activities. The participants of this study included 147 boys and girls (mean age 7.60 ± 0.85 years). The total sample of subjects was composed of two subgroups: children who were enrolled in organized exercise programs—multisports (n = 77), and children who were engaged in soccer training (n = 70). Motor coordination was evaluated with the Kiphard–Schilling body coordination test (KTK). Physical fitness was assessed with a 20 m shuttle run test, 4 × 10 m shuttle run test, standing long jump, and handgrip strength. The ANCOVA showed significant differences (p < 0.05) with large effect size between groups for tests hopping for height (d = 0.93), total motor quotient (d = 1.31), jumping sideways (d = 1.32), and moving sideways (d = 1.59), after adjusting for age and gender. There were no significant differences between groups in the physical fitness tests. It can be concluded that children enrolled in multisport activities have higher levels of motor coordination than children who are enrolled only in soccer. Therefore, multiple sport training programs should be considered and encouraged by parents, educators, and other training professionals.
Boris Popović; Marko Gušić; Danilo Radanović; Slobodan Andrašić; Dejan M. Madić; Draženka Mačak; Dušan Stupar; Goran Đukić; Dragan Grujičić; Nebojša Trajković. Evaluation of Gross Motor Coordination and Physical Fitness in Children: Comparison between Soccer and Multisport Activities. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 5902 .
AMA StyleBoris Popović, Marko Gušić, Danilo Radanović, Slobodan Andrašić, Dejan M. Madić, Draženka Mačak, Dušan Stupar, Goran Đukić, Dragan Grujičić, Nebojša Trajković. Evaluation of Gross Motor Coordination and Physical Fitness in Children: Comparison between Soccer and Multisport Activities. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (16):5902.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBoris Popović; Marko Gušić; Danilo Radanović; Slobodan Andrašić; Dejan M. Madić; Draženka Mačak; Dušan Stupar; Goran Đukić; Dragan Grujičić; Nebojša Trajković. 2020. "Evaluation of Gross Motor Coordination and Physical Fitness in Children: Comparison between Soccer and Multisport Activities." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 16: 5902.
Research in preschool children that investigates the impact of different exercise interventions on physical fitness is limited. This pre–post study was aimed at determining if participation in a nine-month structured multisport program (MSG; n = 38) could enhance physical fitness components compared to a formal exercise program (control group (CG); n = 36) among preschool children. Physical fitness was assessed using standardized tests (the standing long jump, sit and reach, 20 m sprint, sit-ups for 30 s, bent-arm hang, medicine ball throw (MBT), grip strength, 4x10 m shuttle run, and 20 m shuttle run tests). The structured multisport program involved fundamental/gross and fine motor skills and ball game-based exercises twice a week. The control group was free of any programmed exercise except for the obligatory program in kindergartens. A mixed ANOVA demonstrated significant group-by-time interaction effects for the 4x10m shuttle run, standing long jump, sit-ups, bent-arm hang, grip strength, and sit and reach tests (p < 0.05). There was no significant group-by-time interaction effect for the 20 m sprint test (p = 0.794) or for the 20 m shuttle run test (p = 0.549). Moreover, the MSG and CG performance in the MBT and 20 m shuttle run tests improved to a similar extent from pre- to post-test. Our results indicate that compared to the formal plan, the structured multisport program led to a sustained improvement in physical fitness in healthy 5-to-6-year old children.
Boris Popović; Milan Cvetković; Draženka Mačak; Tijana Šćepanović; Nebojša Čokorilo; Aleksandra Belić; Nebojša Trajković; Slobodan Andrašić; Špela Bogataj. Nine Months of a Structured Multisport Program Improve Physical Fitness in Preschool Children: A Quasi-Experimental Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 4935 .
AMA StyleBoris Popović, Milan Cvetković, Draženka Mačak, Tijana Šćepanović, Nebojša Čokorilo, Aleksandra Belić, Nebojša Trajković, Slobodan Andrašić, Špela Bogataj. Nine Months of a Structured Multisport Program Improve Physical Fitness in Preschool Children: A Quasi-Experimental Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (14):4935.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBoris Popović; Milan Cvetković; Draženka Mačak; Tijana Šćepanović; Nebojša Čokorilo; Aleksandra Belić; Nebojša Trajković; Slobodan Andrašić; Špela Bogataj. 2020. "Nine Months of a Structured Multisport Program Improve Physical Fitness in Preschool Children: A Quasi-Experimental Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 14: 4935.
There is a strong need for a new, probably cheaper, smaller, and more portable isometric dynamometer. With this aim, we investigated the concurrent validity and reliability of a low-cost portable dynamometer to measure the isometric strength of the lower limb. Seventeen young participants (age 16.47 ± 0.51 years) were randomly assessed on three different days for knee flexion and extension isometric forces with two different devices: a commonly used isokinetic dynamometer (ISOC) and a portable isometric dynamometer prototype (ISOM). No significant differences were observed between the ISOC and the ISOM (all comparisons p > 0.05). Test–retest comparison showed the ISOM to have high reliability (ICC 0.879–0.990). This study showed that measurements with the ISOM could be performed without systematic bias and with high reliability. The ISOM is a device that is able to assess knee isometric strength with excellent concurrent validity and reliability.
Johnny Padulo; Nebojša Trajković; Drazen Cular; Zoran Grgantov; Dejan M. Madić; Rosa Di Vico; Alfonso Traficante; Larion Alin; Luca Paolo Ardigò; Luca Russo. Validity and Reliability of Isometric-Bench for Knee Isometric Assessment. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 1 .
AMA StyleJohnny Padulo, Nebojša Trajković, Drazen Cular, Zoran Grgantov, Dejan M. Madić, Rosa Di Vico, Alfonso Traficante, Larion Alin, Luca Paolo Ardigò, Luca Russo. Validity and Reliability of Isometric-Bench for Knee Isometric Assessment. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (12):1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJohnny Padulo; Nebojša Trajković; Drazen Cular; Zoran Grgantov; Dejan M. Madić; Rosa Di Vico; Alfonso Traficante; Larion Alin; Luca Paolo Ardigò; Luca Russo. 2020. "Validity and Reliability of Isometric-Bench for Knee Isometric Assessment." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 12: 1.
This study aimed to examine the reliability, validity, and usefulness of the smartphone-based application, My Jump 2, against Optojump in recreationally active adults. Participants (18 women, 28.9 ± 5.6 years, and 26 men, 30.1 ± 10.6 years) completed squat jumps (SJ), counter-movement jumps (CMJ), and CMJ with arm swing (CMJAS) on Optojump and were simultaneously recorded using My Jump 2. To evaluate concurrent validity, jump height, calculated from flight time attained from each device, was compared for each jump type. Test-retest reliability was determined by replicating data analysis of My Jump 2 recordings on two occasions separated by two weeks. High test-retest reliability (Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.93) was observed for all measures in both male and female athletes. Very large correlations were observed between the My Jump 2 app and Optojump for SJ (r = 0.95, p = 0.001), CMJ (r = 0.98, p = 0.001), and CMJAS (r = 0.98, p = 0.001) in male athletes. Similar results were obtained for female recreational athletes for all jumps (r > 0.94, p = 0.001). The study results suggest that My Jump 2 is a valid, reliable, and useful tool for measuring vertical jump in recreationally active adults. Therefore, due to its simplicity and practicality, it can be used by practitioners, coaches, and recreationally-active adults to measure vertical jump performance with a simple test as SJ, CMJ, and CMJAS.
Špela Bogataj; Maja Pajek; Slobodan Andrašić; Nebojša Trajković. Concurrent Validity and Reliability of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump Height in Recreationally Active Adults. Applied Sciences 2020, 10, 3805 .
AMA StyleŠpela Bogataj, Maja Pajek, Slobodan Andrašić, Nebojša Trajković. Concurrent Validity and Reliability of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump Height in Recreationally Active Adults. Applied Sciences. 2020; 10 (11):3805.
Chicago/Turabian StyleŠpela Bogataj; Maja Pajek; Slobodan Andrašić; Nebojša Trajković. 2020. "Concurrent Validity and Reliability of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump Height in Recreationally Active Adults." Applied Sciences 10, no. 11: 3805.
The ability to differentiate the elite from nonelite athletes is not clearly defined. We investigated level differences in speed, change of direction speed (CODS), and reactive agility in a group of trained adolescent soccer players. A total of 75 adolescent male soccer players (aged 14–19 years) were recruited. The players were grouped based on the level of play to elite, sub-elite, and amateur players. Players were tested for 5-, 10- and 20-m sprints, CODS, and reactive agility tests (RAT). Elite players had faster reaction movement time during RAT with live opponent stimuli (p ≤ 0.01) compared to sub-elite and amateur players. Moreover, elite players showed a faster time during light stimuli (p ≤ 0.01) but only compared to amateur players. The times for 5-m and 10-m sprint groups did not differ (p > 0.05). The results demonstrated that the skilled players (elite and sub-elite) performed better in reactive agility tests, speed, and COD speed compared to amateur players. Additionally, we can conclude that total and reaction time in the agility test with live opponent stimuli can be a significant factor that differentiates between adolescent soccer players considering their level.
Nebojša Trajković; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Krističević; Dejan M. Madić; Špela Bogataj. The Importance of Reactive Agility Tests in Differentiating Adolescent Soccer Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 3839 .
AMA StyleNebojša Trajković, Goran Sporiš, Tomislav Krističević, Dejan M. Madić, Špela Bogataj. The Importance of Reactive Agility Tests in Differentiating Adolescent Soccer Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (11):3839.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNebojša Trajković; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Krističević; Dejan M. Madić; Špela Bogataj. 2020. "The Importance of Reactive Agility Tests in Differentiating Adolescent Soccer Players." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 11: 3839.
There is a persistent need in sport science for developing a measuring tool that is affordable, portable, and easy to use. We aimed to examine the concurrent validity and test–retest reliability of the My Jump 2 app compared to a validated OptoJump instrument for measuring jump performance during the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and CMJ free arms (CMJAM) in primary school children. A total of 48 participants (11–14 years age), volunteered to participate in this research. The jumps were recorded with a validated OptoJump photoelectric cell system and a concurrent device (iPhone X through My Jump 2 app) at the same time. The participants repeated the testing procedure after two weeks to assess the reliability of the measurements (ICC). Systematic bias between sessions and tools was evaluated using the paired samples t-test and Bland and Altman analysis. High test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.89) was observed for all measures’ in-between conditions. Very large correlations in the total sample were observed between the My Jump 2 app and OptoJump for SJ (r = 0.97, p = 0.001), CMJ (r = 0.97, p = 0.001), and CMJAM (r = 0.99, p = 0.001). Bland and Altman’s plot depicting limits of agreement for the total sample between the OptoJump and My Jump 2 show that the majority of data points are within the 95% CIs. The results of this study suggest that My Jump 2 is a valid, reliable, and useful tool for measuring jump performance in primary school children.
Špela Bogataj; Maja Pajek; Vedran Hadžić; Slobodan Andrašić; Johnny Padulo; Nebojša Trajković. Validity, Reliability, and Usefulness of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump in Primary School Children. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 3708 .
AMA StyleŠpela Bogataj, Maja Pajek, Vedran Hadžić, Slobodan Andrašić, Johnny Padulo, Nebojša Trajković. Validity, Reliability, and Usefulness of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump in Primary School Children. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (10):3708.
Chicago/Turabian StyleŠpela Bogataj; Maja Pajek; Vedran Hadžić; Slobodan Andrašić; Johnny Padulo; Nebojša Trajković. 2020. "Validity, Reliability, and Usefulness of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump in Primary School Children." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 10: 3708.
The present study aimed to investigate whether recreational volleyball organized as small-sided games could improve fitness and health profiles of middle-aged men after 10 weeks of training. Twenty-four healthy men aged 35–55 were randomized in a small-sided recreational volleyball group (RV = 12; age: 44.7 ± 6.34 years; body mass index: 25.85 ± 1.74) and control group (CON = 12; age: 42.9 ± 8.72 years; body mass index: 25.62 ± 1.48). The RV group carried out a volleyball training program, whereas the CON group continued their daily life activities during this period. The participants in the RV group performed 2/3 training sessions of 90 min per week. Results from a repeated measure ANOVA indicated a significant group × time interaction for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (F = 6.776, p = 0.016, partial ƞ2 = 0.235) and for resting heart rate (F = 11.647, p = 0.002, partial ƞ2 = 0.346) in favor of the RV group. No significant changes were observed for body weight, body mass index, and diastolic blood pressure. Results for physical fitness indicated a significant interaction for Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test–level 2 (F = 11.648, p = 0.003, partial ƞ2 = 0.380), with no significant changes in both groups for handgrip strength. Recreational small-sided volleyball can be an effective training modality to stimulate a decrease in LDL cholesterol and resting HR with small improvements in cardiovascular fitness. Recreational volleyball played only two times per week shows positive cardiovascular fitness and health-related adaptations, which may contribute to the reduction of the risk of developing lifestyle diseases.
Nebojša Trajković; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Krističević; Špela Bogataj. Effects of Small-Sided Recreational Volleyball on Health Markers and Physical Fitness in Middle-Aged Men. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 3021 .
AMA StyleNebojša Trajković, Goran Sporiš, Tomislav Krističević, Špela Bogataj. Effects of Small-Sided Recreational Volleyball on Health Markers and Physical Fitness in Middle-Aged Men. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (9):3021.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNebojša Trajković; Goran Sporiš; Tomislav Krističević; Špela Bogataj. 2020. "Effects of Small-Sided Recreational Volleyball on Health Markers and Physical Fitness in Middle-Aged Men." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 9: 3021.
Studies dealing with the effectiveness of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) 11+ prevention program to improve performance outcomes in children aged < 14 years are limited. This study aimed to point out the effects of the application of short-term FIFA 11+ warm-up program on physical performance in young football players. Participants were 36 youth male football players, divided into a FIFA 11+ (n = 19; mean (SD) age: 11.15 (0.79) y) and a control group (CG: n = 17; age: 10.87 (0.8) y) and trained for 4 weeks. Before and after the training period, standing long jump performance, agility, repeated sprint ability, sit and reach, and “30–15” intermittent fitness tests were assessed. A mixed ANOVA showed significant differences between the groups in the standing long jump test (FIFA 11+: 5.6% vs. CG: −1.9%) in favor of FIFA 11+ over CG. Additionally, the FIFA 11+ performance of the Illinois agility test was significantly better compared to the CG performance (FIFA 11+: −1.9% vs. CG: 0.03%). The main findings of this study suggest that just 4 weeks of implementation of the FIFA 11+ improves physical performance compared with traditional warm-up routines in young soccer players.
Nebojša Trajković; Marko Gušić; Slavko Molnar; Draženka Mačak; Dejan M. Madić; Špela Bogataj. Short-Term FIFA 11+ Improves Agility and Jump Performance in Young Soccer Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 2017 .
AMA StyleNebojša Trajković, Marko Gušić, Slavko Molnar, Draženka Mačak, Dejan M. Madić, Špela Bogataj. Short-Term FIFA 11+ Improves Agility and Jump Performance in Young Soccer Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (6):2017.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNebojša Trajković; Marko Gušić; Slavko Molnar; Draženka Mačak; Dejan M. Madić; Špela Bogataj. 2020. "Short-Term FIFA 11+ Improves Agility and Jump Performance in Young Soccer Players." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 6: 2017.