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Association between External Load and Injury Incidence in Professional and Elite-Youth Football Players
Georgios Georgiadis1, Rainer van Gaal Appelhof2, Rick Stoop3, Jeroen Peters4, Johannes Essers51. Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University , NL2. Football Club Utrecht, Herculesplein 241, 3584 AA Utrecht, The Netherlands , NL3. Football Club Utrecht, Herculesplein 241, 3584 AA Utrecht, The Netherlands , NL4. Football Club Utrecht, Herculesplein 241, 3584 AA Utrecht, The Netherlands , NL5. Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University , NL2024-04-19|page 10-25AbstractBackground: Elite football players are monitored daily to minimize injury risks and maximize performance.
Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate injury incidence differences between competition and training and differences in key external load indicators during 1-, 2-, 3- or 4-weeks prior to the injury (WPI) with respect to the season average week (SAW).
Methods: Data of 224 unique players of five teams (1st, under-23, under-18, under-17, and under-16) were collected during 3.5 seasons of competition and training resulting in 467 player records in total. Collected data included kinematics from Global Positioning System tracking units (Viper Units, STATSports) and 528 injury incident records. External load was expressed in terms of acceleration counts (ACC), deceleration counts (DEC), total training time (TT), total distance (TD), and distance covered in high-speed zones: 14.4-19.7 km/h (Z4), 19.7-25.1 km/h (Z5), and >25.1 km/h (Z6). Injury incidence was derived as number of injuries per 1000 hours of exposure.
Results: Incidence rate was on average 4-11 times higher during competition than training for all teams except under-16 (incidence rate: 2.5, p=.153). In the 1st Team, external load (i.e. ACC, TT, and TD) were significantly different between 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-WPI and SAW (p=.041, p=.037, and p=.049 respectively). For ACC and TT, the 3-WPI loads, were significantly higher than during SAW (p=.044 and p=.038, respectively).
Conclusion: These findings can assist professionals and scientists to improve their understanding of the relationship between external load indicators and injury incidence and consequently improve player health and performance.
APA Citation StyleGeorgiadis, G. , van Gaal Appelhof, R. , Stoop, R. , Peters, J. , & Essers, J. (2024). Association between External Load and Injury Incidence in Professional and Elite-Youth Football Players. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 10-25. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v3i1.316 -
Weightlifting coaches' and athletes' understanding of injury prevention programs: a case study of Lumajang and Malang
Muhammad Izzan Atmagara1, Yulingga Nanda Hanief21. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID2025-09-21|page 222-235AbstractBackground: Weightlifting is a high-intensity sport with a high risk of injuries due to improper technique, insufficient warm-up, and excessive training loads.
Objectives: This study explores the understanding, strategies, and barriers of weightlifting coaches and athletes in Lumajang District and Malang City related to implementing injury prevention programs in performance sports.
Methods: This study used a qualitative case study approach. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, consisting of weightlifting coaches with at least one year of experience and athletes who had trained and competed at the regional level. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis, while data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, including reduction, presentation, and conclusion.
Results: The results showed that coaches and athletes emphasized dynamic warm-ups, core and back strengthening exercises, and correct lifting techniques as the main strategies to prevent injuries. However, limitations in facilities, literature access, and training variety were identified as barriers to implementing optimal injury prevention programs.
Conclusions: This study concludes that effective injury prevention in weightlifting requires structured warm-up routines, individualized training programs, and adequate supporting equipment. Strengthening coaches’ knowledge and providing better facilities are crucial to minimize injuries and enhance athlete performance.APA Citation StyleAtmagara, M. I. , & Hanief, Y. N. (2025). Weightlifting coaches' and athletes' understanding of injury prevention programs: a case study of Lumajang and Malang. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 222-235. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.601 -
Immunity to rhythm: Visual or auditory stimuli during intense aerobic exertion do not modulate the mood of young adults
Flavio de Souza Araujo1, Camila Maria Menezes Almeida2, Mariana Ferreira de Souza3, Marcelo Magalhães Sales4, José Fernando Vila Nova de Moraes51. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR2. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR3. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR4. State University of Goiás , BR5. Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF) , BR2026-04-26|page 160-171AbstractBackground: High-intensity aerobic exercise can promote higher energy expenditure when compared to low and moderate-intensity exercise. However, vigorous exercise can negatively influence mood responses related to adherence. Auditory and audiovisual resources have been used to improve psychological variables during and after exercise.
Objectives: To analyze the influence of listening to music and watching video clips on mood responses of young adults after a high-intensity aerobic exercise session.
Methods: This is a Cross-Sectional Randomized Controlled Study in which fourteen male participants (23.4 ± 3.1 years; 26.2 ± 3.4 kg/m²) randomly performed exercise sessions on a cyclergometer, at an intensity of 10% above anaerobic threshold, in three situations: control (C), listening to music (M), and watching video clips (VC). At the end of each session, participants underwent 30 min of passive recovery. Mood responses were measured using Brunel’s Mood Scale (BRUMS) before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after recovery. Friedman’s and Wilcoxon’s tests were used, with a significance level of 5%.
Results: No statistical differences were found between conditions (C, C, and VC) for the dimensions confusion, fatigue, anger, tension, and vigor (p>0.05). A statistically significant difference was found for depression before exercise, with M higher than C and VC (p<0.05); however, no differences were observed after exercise or recovery.
Conclusions: Listening to music and/or watching video clips does not influence mood responses in young adults after high-intensity aerobic exercise on a cyclergometer.
APA Citation StyleAraujo, F. D. S. , Almeida, C. M. M. , Souza, M. F. D. , Sales, M. M. , & Moraes, J. F. V. N. D. (2026). Immunity to rhythm: Visual or auditory stimuli during intense aerobic exertion do not modulate the mood of young adults. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 160-171. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.702 -
The effect of championship participation on training intensity and motivation of Pencak Silat student athletes at Semarang State University, Indonesia
Achmad Alif Firmansyah1, Nanang Indardi21. State University of Semarang , ID2. State University of Semarang , ID2025-08-15|page 204-211AbstractBackground: Consistent training and high enthusiasm are the keys to an athlete's success in achieving optimal performance. However, among Pencak Silat athletes at Semarang State University (UNNES), there is a decrease in training intensity and enthusiasm when there is no championship agenda.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of participation in a championship on the training intensity and motivation of Semarang State University Pencak Silat athletes.
Methods: This study used a pre-post design with the same subjects (n = 30) and an explanatory quantitative approach to determine the effect of championship participation on training intensity and motivation. Data were collected using a Likert scale questionnaire that has been tested for validity and reliability (α = 0.872). Data analysis was performed using a paired t-test using SPSS.
Results: The results showed a significant increase in training intensity from a mean ± SD of 3.12 ± 0.54 (pre) to 3.78 ± 0.49 (post), and training motivation from 3.05 ± 0.61 (pre) to 3.85 ± 0.55 (post), with t(29) = 5.62 and 6.03, respectively, p = 0.004. Cohen's d effect sizes of 1.03 (intensity) and 1.10 (motivation) indicate significant effects.
Conclusions: These findings indicate that participation in championships is a significant external motivator in improving the quality of athletes' training. Therefore, championships can be a coaching strategy to maintain sustainable training motivation, a practical implication that this study has clearly demonstrated.
APA Citation StyleFirmansyah, A. A. , & Indardi, N. (2025). The effect of championship participation on training intensity and motivation of Pencak Silat student athletes at Semarang State University, Indonesia. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 204-211. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.620 -
A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training
Ferdinando Cereda11. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan , IT2025-04-07|page 46-59AbstractBackground: Resistance training (RT) has emerged as a powerful tool for health promotion, with substantial scientific evidence supporting its beneficial effects across multiple physiological systems and psychological domains. Despite this robust knowledge base, a significant disconnection persists between scientific evidence and practical implementation in both clinical and everyday settings.
Objectives: This study aims to critically examine this science-practice gap by analyzing common misconceptions surrounding RT and proposing strategies to enhance knowledge translation.
Methods: Through a narrative review of scientific literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, the research synthesizes evidence regarding RT's scientifically validated benefits, prevalent myths, and effective communication approaches.
Results: Findings show a concerning lack of scientific awareness among practitioners and end-users. Persistent misconceptions, such as "RT reduces flexibility" and "plant-based proteins are inferior for muscle hypertrophy," continue to circulate despite contradictory evidence.
Conclusions: Improved scientific communication via targeted educational programs, digital platforms, and collaboration between researchers and policymakers is urgently needed to bridge this gap and maximize RT’s public health impact.
APA Citation StyleCereda, F. (2025). A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 46-59. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.499 -
A comparison of VO₂max response of 15-year-old soccer athletes based on training time in the tropical climate of Bima
Firdaus Firdaus1, Taty Hartati2, Rabwan Satriawan3, Shutan Arie Shandi4, Nor Fazila Abd Malek51. Department of Physical Education, STKIP Taman Siswa Bima , ID2. Department of History, STKIP Taman Siswa Bima , ID3. Department of Physical Education, STKIP Taman Siswa Bima , ID4. Department of Physical Education, STKIP Taman Siswa Bima , ID5. Faculty of Sports Science and Coaching, Sultan Idris Education University , MY2026-04-14|page 125-134AbstractBackground: VO₂max is the primary indicator of a soccer athlete's aerobic capacity, but in tropical climates like Bima, high temperatures and humidity can affect VO₂max achievement. Hence, the timing of training is an important factor to consider.
Objectives: This study aims to analyze differences in VO₂max across training times (morning and afternoon) in 15-year-old youth soccer athletes from the Bima Football Association (PERSSEBI).
Methods: The study used a quantitative, comparative, cross-sectional observational design. The study subjects were 45 athletes (age 15.31±0.46; height 163.12±4.35 cm; weight 55.28±3.67 kg; and body mass index (BMI) 20.78±1.18 kg/m²) from the Bima Football Association (PERSEBI), selected by purposive sampling, and divided into morning (n=23) and afternoon (n=22) training groups. VO₂max was measured using a multistage fitness test (Bleep Test). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, the Shapiro–Wilk normality test, the Levene homogeneity test, and the independent-samples t-test at a significance level of 0.05, using IBM SPSS 25.
Results: The descriptive analysis showed that the average VO₂max of the morning group was 43.78 ± 2.34 ml/kg/minute, higher than that of the afternoon group (42.91 ± 2.29 ml/kg/minute). The results of the independent sample t-test showed that there was a significant difference in VO₂max between the two groups with a t value = 2.14 with df = 43 and a significant p value = 0.04 (p < 0.05) with an average difference of 0.87 ml/kg/minute indicating that the morning exercise group had a higher Vo2max value than the afternoon exercise group.
Conclusions: These findings suggest that training time contributes to differences in athletes' VO₂max values in tropical environments, with morning training resulting in higher performance than afternoon training. Therefore, scheduling training that accounts for environmental conditions is crucial for optimizing athletes' VO₂max.
APA Citation StyleFirdaus, F. , Hartati, T. , Satriawan, R. , Shandi, S. A. , & Malek, N. F. A. (2026). A comparison of VO₂max response of 15-year-old soccer athletes based on training time in the tropical climate of Bima. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 125-134. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.709 -
The impact of coaching communication styles and training programs on novice tennis player satisfaction: A case study from Indonesia
Mohammad Aldi Zakaria1, Limpad Nurrachmad21. State University of Semarang , ID2. State University of Semarang , ID2025-07-17|page 152-161AbstractBackground: The satisfaction of beginner tennis players is often influenced by coaches' communication styles and the structure of training programs.
Objectives: This study analyzed the effects of coaching communication style and training program design on player satisfaction at Club First Tennis.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive-associative approach was used with 50 beginner players in regular training sessions. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire covering coach communication style, training program design, and player satisfaction. Statistical analyses included validity and reliability tests, normality checks, and Spearman's rank correlation due to non-parametric data.
Results: Results showed strong, significant relationships between coaching communication and player satisfaction (r = 0.615, p < 0.05), as well as between training programs and satisfaction (r = 0.620, p < 0.05). These findings indicate that supportive and adaptive communication and well-structured training enhance athlete satisfaction and engagement.
Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of integrating effective communication and program planning in coaching beginner athletes. Future studies are encouraged to explore additional influencing factors such as intrinsic motivation or external support, and to involve larger sample sizes for broader generalizability.
APA Citation StyleZakaria, M. A. , & Nurrachmad, L. (2025). The impact of coaching communication styles and training programs on novice tennis player satisfaction: A case study from Indonesia. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 152-161. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.603 -
Performance determinants in tropical trail running: Race result analysis of the 5K and 10K Merapi Merbabu de Trail 2025
Siti Baitul Mukarromah1, Sugiarto Sugiarto2, Gustiana Mega Anggita3, Sri Agus Budi Santoso4, Sangheon Park5, Ambar Dwi Erawati6, Rikha Liemiyah7, Aziiz Mardanarian Rosdianto8, Ronny Lesmana9, Faisyal Syofian101. State University of Semarang , ID2. State University of Semarang , ID3. State University of Semarang , ID4. Tarra Adventure, Boyolali Regency, Central Java Province , ID5. Korea Institute of Sport Science, Seoul , KR6. Widya Husada Semarang University , ID7. Universitas Dian Nuswantoro , ID8. Universitas Padjajaran , ID9. Universitas Padjajaran , ID10. Sultan Agung Islamic University , ID2026-04-03|page 82-92AbstractBackground: The limited research on the determinants of performance in short-distance trail running in tropical environments is a major problem in understanding the influence of environmental conditions on runners' performance and pacing strategies.
Objectives: This study aimed to examine the influence of race distance, sex, and age on trail running performance in the 5K and 10K categories of the Merapi Merbabu de Trail 2025.
Methods: A retrospective observational race result analysis was conducted using official race data from the Merapi Merbabu de Trail 2025. The study included 429 runners (5K: n = 144; 10K: n = 285), consisting of 275 male and 154 female participants. The primary outcome variable was finish time (in minutes), while the independent variables included race, distance, sex, and age. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, including descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, Cohen’s d effect sizes, and multiple linear regression to evaluate predictors of performance.
Results: Results showed a significant difference in performance between race distances. The mean finish time for the 5K category was 152.8 ± 44.3 minutes, while the 10K category averaged 306.1 ± 74.3 minutes (t = -26.68, p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 2.50). Male runners completed the 10K race faster than female runners (293 vs. 345 minutes). Regression analysis indicated that finish time increased by approximately 2–3 minutes per year of age, indicating a progressive decline in performance with increasing age.
Conclusions: These findings indicate that race distance, sex, and age are significant determinants of trail running performance in tropical environments.APA Citation StyleMukarromah, S. B. , Sugiarto, S. , Anggita, G. M. , Santoso, S. A. B. , Park, S. , Erawati, A. D. , Liemiyah, R. , Rosdianto, A. M. , Lesmana, R. , & Syofian, F. (2026). Performance determinants in tropical trail running: Race result analysis of the 5K and 10K Merapi Merbabu de Trail 2025. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 82-92. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.699 -
Improving physical self-perception and health-related fitness through gamification in physical education: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Ferdinando Cereda11. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan , IT2026-03-08|page 7-27AbstractBackground: The global decline in adolescent physical activity necessitates pedagogical innovation to counter disengagement. Traditional norm-referenced physical education (PE) often alienates less skilled students, whereas gamification offers a promising criterion-referenced strategy to enhance motivation and learning.
Objectives: This study investigated the efficacy of a 12-week gamified didactic intervention on perceived physical self-concept, health-related fitness, and physical activity enjoyment among high school students.
Methods: A two-arm, parallel-group, cluster randomized controlled trial (Cluster-RCT) was conducted with 210 Italian adolescents (mean age 15.4 ± 0.9 years) nested within 10 intact classes (average cluster size = 21). Intact classes were randomised to an experimental group (gamified ‘MoveQuest’ module, k = 5) or a control group (traditional direct instruction, k = 5). Data were collected using the Revised Physical Self-Perception Profile (PSPP-R-IT), the ALPHA-FIT test battery, and the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). Following a per-protocol analytical approach, Linear mixed models (LMMs) were employed to analyse the data, accounting for the nested structure of the educational setting and handling cluster-level variance intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Significance levels were interpreted considering the multiplicity of outcomes.
Results: Significant group × time interactions were observed, with the gamified group demonstrating superior improvements in sports competence (d = 0.65), physical self-worth (d = 0.58), and enjoyment (d = 0.82) compared to the control group. Physiologically, the experimental group showed significantly greater gains in cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇O₂ max) and agility, while body attractiveness remained stable in both groups.
Conclusions: Gamified didactics significantly enhance psychological engagement and specific motor performance parameters by prioritising individual progress over social comparison. This approach represents a valuable pedagogical tool for fostering physical literacy in secondary PE.APA Citation StyleCereda, F. (2026). Improving physical self-perception and health-related fitness through gamification in physical education: A cluster randomized controlled trial. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 7-27. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.677 -
Motor activity and foreign language learning in preschool: A review of movement-based and total physical response interventions
Manuela Valentini1, Nausicaa Simone2, Alessandro Beretta31. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT2. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT3. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT2026-04-02|page 93-105AbstractBackground: Movement may support early foreign-language learning through embodied learning, but the preschool evidence base is fragmented.
Objective: To review empirical studies on movement-based and Total Physical Response (TPR) interventions for foreign-language learning in preschool children.
Method: This study employed a systematic review design based on PRISMA 2020 guidelines, involving database searches and citation tracking to identify empirical studies on movement-based and Total Physical Response (TPR) interventions in preschool foreign-language learning. Studies were screened using predefined eligibility criteria and appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data from eligible studies were extracted and synthesized narratively due to methodological heterogeneity.
Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Across stronger controlled studies, semantically integrated movement generally produced more favorable vocabulary and verbal memory outcomes than sedentary teaching or less integrated movement. Evidence focused specifically on TPR was positive in terms of engagement and short-term learning, but methodologically heterogeneous and less robust.
Conclusion: Current preschool evidence supports the promise of integrated movement-based language teaching, particularly when movement is tightly aligned with instructional content. However, the evidence base remains small, largely limited to vocabulary-related outcomes, and further rigorous preschool trials are needed to clarify optimal implementation and the distinct contribution of TPR.APA Citation StyleValentini, M. , Simone, N. , & Beretta, A. (2026). Motor activity and foreign language learning in preschool: A review of movement-based and total physical response interventions. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 93-105. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.694 -
Medical observations and injury analysis: All Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024
Mohamad Nizam Nazarudin1, Yong Qin Tan2, Ardo Okilanda3, Yovhandra Ockta4, Reshandi Nugraha51. National University of Malaysia , MY2. National University of Malaysia , MY3. State University of Padang , ID4. Universitas Teuku Umar , ID5. UniversitasPendidikan Indonesia , ID2025-04-04|page 32-45AbstractBackground: Touch rugby is a high-intensity, non-contact sport requiring agility, speed, and coordination. This study analyzes injury distribution, treatment effectiveness, and preventive measures among youth touch rugby players.
Objectives: This study examined injury patterns among adolescent female athletes during the 2024 All-Girls Touch Rugby Championship (AGTR 2024).
Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using medical reports from the two-day All-Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024 (AGTR 2024) at Universiti Putra Malaysia. The study examined 484 female athletes (ages 9–18 years), with 176 injuries recorded and categorized as soft tissue injuries (52.3%), abrasions (23.9%), and sprains (14.2%). Descriptive statistics were used to assess injury distribution, while chi-square analysis (χ² = 10.45, p < 0.01) evaluated the relationship between injury type and age group.
Results: Younger players (10–14 years) sustained more abrasions (60%), whereas older athletes (15–18 years) had a higher incidence of soft tissue injuries (68%). Injuries increased by 66.7% on Day 2, highlighting the impact of cumulative fatigue and tournament intensity. Ice therapy (68%) and bandaging (55%) were the most utilized treatments, with only 7% of cases requiring outpatient referrals.
Conclusions: Findings underscore the need for structured warm-ups, enhanced hydration protocols, and targeted strength training to reduce injury risks. The study emphasizes the role of injury surveillance, playing surface improvements, and gender-specific training programs in preventing injuries and enhancing athlete safety. Implementing evidence-based preventive strategies can promote the long-term development and sustainability of touch rugby for adolescent athletes. Future research should focus on longitudinal injury tracking and tailored intervention strategies.
APA Citation StyleNazarudin, M. N. , Tan, Y. Q. , Okilanda, A. , Ockta, Y. , & Nugraha, R. (2025). Medical observations and injury analysis: All Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 32-45. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.495 -
Impact of five-cone and ladder drill training on agility among U15 football athletes
Pupuh Harya Prembanyu1, Agus Wiyanto2, Setiyawan Setiyawan31. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2025-11-26|page 266-274AbstractBackground: Although it may seem simple, soccer has complex characteristics, which is why many children are attracted to training at soccer schools. Agility is a crucial aspect of the game, as it enables a player to move quickly, evade opponents, and control the ball effectively. At the Pemalang Regency Bina Talenta Soccer School (SSB), agility training is not conducted optimally and has not been implemented systematically with effective methods. Therefore, exercises such as the five-cone and ladder drills need to be implemented to improve player agility more effectively.
Objectives: This study aims to examine the impact of five-cone and ladder drill training on the agility of U15 football athletes.
Methods: This study used a quantitative descriptive method with a quasi-experimental approach. The experimental design was a pretest-posttest in two groups. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling with 20 players participating in a four-week training program. The instrument to measure agility was the Illinois Agility Test, with a validity level of r = 0.87. The measurement data were analyzed using a difference test with the help of SPSS software version 29.0.
Results: The five-cone drill and the ladder drill had a significant effect on agility, as both exercises had a significance value of <0.05. The five-cone drill was more effective than the ladder drill. This was due to the difference in scores between the five-cone drill, which increased by 1.04, and the ladder drill, which increased by 0.84.
Conclusions: Both training methods are effective in improving agility and can be integrated into school-based football training programs. Furthermore, the results of implementing these methods can enhance player performance and provide a valuable source of new knowledge for future researchers on agility in SSB players.
APA Citation StylePrembanyu, P. H. , Wiyanto, A. , & Setiyawan, S. (2025). Impact of five-cone and ladder drill training on agility among U15 football athletes. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 266-274. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.633 -
Optimising physiological recovery after high-intensity training: A combined approach of hydrotherapy, contrast bath, and full-body massage in futsal players
Afif Dwi Nugraha1, Laily Mita Andriana2, Muhamad Fauzi Antoni3, Muhammad Labib Siena Ar Rasyid4, Bhekti Lestari51. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID3. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID4. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID5. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2025-12-15|page 302-317AbstractBackground: Efficient recovery after high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and minimizing the risk of injury.
Objectives: This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of combining hydrotherapy contrast baths and full-body massage in accelerating physiological recovery after a HIIT session, compared to the application of a single method.
Methods: This study employed a pre–post quasi-experimental design with three parallel groups (n = 45; 15 participants per group) to analyze the effectiveness of hydrotherapy combined with whole-body massage compared with each method applied separately. Participants were assigned to one of three conditions: (1) hydrotherapy contrast bath only, (2) full-body massage only, and (3) a combined intervention using both techniques. Physiological recovery was assessed using validated instruments, including heart rate monitors for heart rate recovery (HRR), portable lactate analysers for blood lactate concentration, and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for perceived muscle soreness. Data were analysed using the Shapiro–Wilk test, paired-sample t-test, and One-Way ANOVA.
Results: The findings demonstrated that the combined hydrotherapy–massage protocol resulted in greater improvements than the single-method groups, particularly in lactate reduction (e.g., -3.1 ± 0.8 mmol/L vs. - 1.9 ± 0.7 mmol/L and - 2.0 ± 0.6 mmol/L; p<0.05) and faster HRR. Participants in the combined group also reported significantly lower muscle soreness (p<0.05).
Conclusions: This suggests that integrating contrast bath hydrotherapy with full-body massage enhances circulation, accelerates metabolic waste clearance, and improves subjective recovery following HIIT. Future studies are recommended to include larger samples, compare different hydrotherapy temperatures, or examine long-term adaptations from repeated recovery sessions.APA Citation StyleNugraha, A. D. , Andriana, L. M. , Antoni, M. F. , Rasyid, M. L. S. A. , & Lestari, B. (2025). Optimising physiological recovery after high-intensity training: A combined approach of hydrotherapy, contrast bath, and full-body massage in futsal players. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 302-317. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.655












