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Functional movement patterns and bilateral asymmetry in badminton athletes: A Functional Movement Screen analysis at the Malang Regional Training Center
Avi Kholifatuz Zahro'1, Muhammad Atiq Noviudin Pritama21. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID2026-08-17|page 196-207AbstractBackground: Badminton involves repetitive unilateral overhead movements, rapid changes of direction, and explosive actions that may contribute to side-to-side differences in functional movement patterns.
Objectives: This study aimed to describe functional movement patterns and bilateral asymmetry among badminton athletes at the Malang Regional Training Center using the Functional Movement Screen (FMS).
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 16 sub-elite badminton athletes aged 15–20 years selected through purposive sampling. Functional movement was assessed using the seven-component FMS. Total scores were classified as high (≤14), moderate (15–17), or low (18–21) injury risk. Bilateral asymmetry was identified from differences between right- and left-side scores in five bilateral FMS components. Data were analyzed descriptively using means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages.
Results: Most athletes (62.5%, n = 10) were classified as having moderate injury risk, while 18.75% (n = 3) were classified as high risk and 18.75% (n = 3) as low risk. Shoulder Mobility showed the highest prevalence of bilateral asymmetry (100%, n = 16), followed by the In-Line Lunge and Rotary Stability (62.5%, n = 10 each), Hurdle Step (50.0%, n = 8), and Active Straight Leg Raise (43.75%, n = 7).
Conclusions: Bilateral functional movement asymmetry was common among badminton athletes, particularly in shoulder mobility, while most athletes were classified within the moderate injury-risk category. These findings support functional movement screening to identify movement limitations and inform individualized corrective exercise strategies.
APA Citation StyleZahro', A. K. , & Pritama, M. A. N. (2026). Functional movement patterns and bilateral asymmetry in badminton athletes: A Functional Movement Screen analysis at the Malang Regional Training Center. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 196-207. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i2.756 -
Development and evaluation of a web-based interactive flashcard tool (Aero’Zen) for low-impact rhythmic activity instruction in physical education
Zenny Ni'matul Ulya1, Donny Anhar Fahmi2, Ibnu Fatkhu Royana31. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2026-08-31|page 233-247AbstractBackground: Teaching rhythmic activities in physical education continues to face challenges due to the limited availability of visual learning aids that demonstrate movements systematically, repeatedly, and accessibly.
Objectives: This study aimed to develop and evaluate Aero’Zen, a web-based interactive flashcard tool integrating movement illustrations, QR codes, and demonstration videos for basic low-impact rhythmic activities.
Methods: This research and development study employed the ADDIE model. Following product development and expert validation, learning outcomes were evaluated using a one-group pretest–posttest pre-experimental design involving 30 tenth-grade students at SMK Negeri 2 Semarang. Product feasibility was assessed by media experts, subject matter experts, and a physical education practitioner. Pretest and posttest scores were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality and paired-samples t-tests, with the significance level set at α = .05.
Results: Aero’Zen was rated highly suitable by media experts (95.75%), subject matter experts (94.50%), and a physical education practitioner (88.75%). Mean scores increased from 75.40 to 89.97 in the cognitive domain, from 28.80 to 32.77 in the affective domain, and from 19.87 to 32.00 in the psychomotor domain. Paired-samples t-tests revealed significant differences between pretest and posttest scores across all three domains (all p < .001).
Conclusions: Aero’Zen is a highly suitable web-based learning medium with the potential to support students’ cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning outcomes, including movement coordination and performance, in low-impact rhythmic activities. Its integrated flashcards, QR-code access, and demonstration videos provide a flexible resource for repeated and independent learning. Future studies should use randomized controlled trials with larger and more diverse samples to strengthen causal inference and generalizability.
APA Citation StyleUlya, Z. N. , Fahmi, D. A. , & Royana, I. F. (2026). Development and evaluation of a web-based interactive flashcard tool (Aero’Zen) for low-impact rhythmic activity instruction in physical education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 233-247. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i2.761 -
Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level
Laily Mita Andriana1, Kunjung Ashadi2, Fransisca Januarumi Marhaendra Wijaya3, Muhamad Fauzi Antoni41. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID3. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID4. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2025-07-13|page 139-151AbstractBackground: Elderly individuals with disabilities often face challenges in maintaining physical fitness, highlighting the need for effective and appropriate exercise methods tailored to their limitations.
Objectives: This study compares the effectiveness of low-impact specialized Pilates and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) exercise in improving fitness levels among older adults with mild to moderate disabilities. The unique advantage of Pilates in enhancing balance and core strength is presented as a novel contribution.
Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments was employed, involving 40 elderly participants with disabilities divided into two intervention groups over 8 weeks. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on the inclusion criteria of 60–75 years with mild to moderate disabilities. Fitness levels were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test, which evaluates muscular strength, balance, flexibility, and aerobic capacity.
Results: Data analysis was conducted using the Shapiro–Wilk test, paired sample t-test, and independent sample t-test. The results demonstrated that the low-impact specialized Pilates group showed significant improvements in core strength, balance, and flexibility, whereas the LISS group exhibited greater improvements in aerobic capacity.
Conclusions: In conclusion, low-impact specialized Pilates is more effective in enhancing overall fitness among elderly individuals with disabilities. Therefore, it is recommended as a suitable exercise modality for rehabilitation and health maintenance programs to improve this population's quality of life and functional independence.
APA Citation StyleAndriana, L. M. , Ashadi, K. , Wijaya, F. J. M. , & Antoni, M. F. (2025). Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 139-151. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.575 -
The effect of resistance band training on the forehand smash speed of youth male badminton singles players
Danan Satria Rahadhi1, Yopi Kusdinar2, Patriana Nurmansyah Awwaludin3, Mulyana Mulyana 41. Indonesia University of Education , ID2. Indonesia University of Education , ID3. Indonesia University of Education , ID4. Indonesia University of Education , ID2025-04-30|page 60-70AbstractBackground: Forehand smash shots kill opponents with explosive blows in a badminton game. In hitting a forehand smash, there are several problems, one of which is the speed of the punch.
Objectives: This study is designed to investigate and identify alternative exercises that can enhance the speed of smash shots. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights for athletes and trainers, aiding in the development of effective training programs.
Methods: The research method used in this study is an experimental method with a quantitative approach and a Two Group Pretest-Posttest Design research design. The population in this study were PB Pasundan Bandung badminton athletes, totaling 30 athletes, with a sample of 20 people using a purposive sampling technique. The instrument in this study used a smash shot speed test using the Velocity Speed Gun tool. The data was processed and analyzed using the normality test with Shapiro-Wilk and then analyzed using the independent t-test with SPSS 23.
Results: The T-test value is with a Sig value. (2-tailed) of 0.00, based on the test results, the Sig value. (2-tailed) <0.05 so that H0 is rejected. So, resistance band training has a significant effect on increasing the speed of forehand smash shots.
Conclusions: In conclusion, the consistent use of resistance bands in training sessions could be a game-changer in boosting the speed of forehand smash shots for badminton athletes. These results strongly advocate integrating resistance band training into early-stage badminton training programs. Future studies could further explore its long-term effects and application across different age groups, fostering hope for the continued evolution of training methods in badminton.
APA Citation StyleRahadhi, D. S. , Kusdinar, Y. , Awwaludin, P. N. , & Mulyana , M. (2025). The effect of resistance band training on the forehand smash speed of youth male badminton singles players. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 60-70. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.524 -
Associations of lower limb muscle strength and body reaction time with crescent kick performance in competitive pencak silat athletes
Jery Setiawan1, Siti Baitul Mukarromah21. State University of Semarang , ID2. State University of Semarang , ID2026-08-17|page 208-219AbstractBackground: Crescent kick performance is an important technical component of competitive pencak silat and may be associated with physical capacities such as lower limb muscle strength and reaction time. However, evidence regarding the relationships of these physical characteristics with crescent kick performance remains limited.
Objectives: This study aimed to examine the associations of lower limb muscle strength and body reaction time with crescent kick performance among competitive pencak silat athletes.
Methods: This quantitative correlational study involved 30 competitive pencak silat athletes (age: 19.8 ± 2.1 years; height: 168.4 ± 6.3 cm; body mass: 61.7 ± 8.2 kg; body mass index: 21.7 ± 2.3 kg/m²) recruited using total sampling. Lower limb muscle strength was assessed using a leg dynamometer, body reaction time using a reaction timer, and crescent kick performance using a 10-second crescent kick test. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple correlation analysis, with statistical significance set at p < .05.
Results: Lower limb muscle strength was positively associated with crescent kick performance (r = 0.734, p < .001), whereas body reaction time was negatively associated with crescent kick performance (r = -0.739, p < .001), indicating that shorter reaction times were associated with better kick performance. Multiple correlation analysis showed a strong combined association of lower limb muscle strength and body reaction time with crescent kick performance (R = 0.754, R² = 0.568, p < .001). Together, these variables accounted for 56.8% of the variance in crescent kick performance.
Conclusions: Greater lower limb muscle strength and shorter body reaction time were associated with better crescent kick performance among competitive pencak silat athletes. These findings highlight the relevance of muscular strength and neuromuscular responsiveness to crescent kick performance and may inform physical conditioning programs for pencak silat athletes. Further studies with larger samples and additional biomechanical, physiological, and technical measures are needed to better understand the factors associated with crescent kick performance.
APA Citation StyleSetiawan, J. , & Mukarromah, S. B. (2026). Associations of lower limb muscle strength and body reaction time with crescent kick performance in competitive pencak silat athletes. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 208-219. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i2.762 -
Fun game–based learning improves gross motor skills in early primary school children
Ahmad Muttaqin Darussalam1, Sugiharto Sugiharto2, Sapto Adi31. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID3. State University of Malang , ID2025-11-23|page 236-249AbstractBackground: Children who face difficulties in gross motor skill development may withdraw from physical activities, experience low self-esteem, and suffer from social anxiety. Physical education plays a vital role in fostering gross motor development, especially when delivered through enjoyable and engaging activities such as fun games.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the impact of fun game–based learning on the development of gross motor skills in early primary school children.
Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. A total of 36 second-grade students from SDIT Mutiara Hati in Malang participated in this study. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: a control group, a group-based fun games intervention, and an individual-based fun games intervention. The interventions were implemented three times a week for 30 minutes over a period of seven weeks. Gross motor skills were measured before and after the intervention using the Test of Gross Motor Development–Third Edition (TGMD-3), a reliable and validated instrument. Data were analyzed using homogeneity and normality tests, paired-sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD post hoc tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05 (SPSS version 25).
Results: Both the individual and group fun game–based learning interventions produced significant improvements in gross motor skills compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, a significant difference was found between the two intervention types, indicating that the mode of fun game delivery influences outcomes (p < 0.05).
Conclusions: Fun game–based learning, whether delivered individually or in groups, effectively enhances gross motor skills among early primary school children. Additionally, individual fun game–based learning demonstrated a significantly greater improvement compared to group-based learning.APA Citation StyleDarussalam, A. M. , Sugiharto, S. , & Adi, S. (2025). Fun game–based learning improves gross motor skills in early primary school children. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 236-249. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.613 -
Comparative analysis of plantar pressure distribution among football players across playing positions: A cross-sectional study
Arif Pristianto1, Anindya Maghfira Zain2, Farid Rahman3, Pungki Indarto4, Anugrah Nur Warthadi51. Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2. Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID3. Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID4. Department of Sport Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID5. Department of Sport Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2026-04-01|page 68-81AbstractBackground: Football players exhibit different muscle activation patterns during different playing activities, which can affect plantar pressure on the feet. Uneven, unbalanced plantar pressure distribution can cause muscle tension, leading to musculoskeletal injuries in the feet.
Objectives: This study aims to determine and compare plantar pressure distribution among football players based on playing position.
Methods: This study is an analytical observational study using a cross-sectional approach. The sample in this study consisted of 24 football players aged 15-18 years who met the inclusion criteria. Plantar pressure was measured using a Zebris Force Distribution Measurement (FDM) platform on the forefoot and rearfoot areas. Statistical analysis included normality tests (Shapiro-Wilk) and multivariate tests (ANOVA) according to data distribution.
Results: Differences in plantar pressure were observed between defenders, forwards, and strikers in static conditions (p < 0.05), but not in dynamic conditions (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: This study shows differences in plantar pressure distribution among football players in defender, forward, and striker positions under static conditions. However, under dynamic conditions, no significant differences were found among playing positions.
APA Citation StylePristianto, A. , Zain, A. M. , Rahman, F. , Indarto, P. , & Warthadi, A. N. (2026). Comparative analysis of plantar pressure distribution among football players across playing positions: A cross-sectional study. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 68-81. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.692 -
Impact of plyometric training using step-up and lateral box jumps on the improvement of leg muscle power in youth school futsal athletes
Risky Sandy Kurniawan1, Donny Anhar Fahmi2, Setiyawan Setiyawan31. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2025-08-15|page 212-221AbstractBackground: Futsal is a high-intensity sport that requires leg muscle power, especially in aerial duels, anticipating the ball, and performing powerful kicks. Limited jumping ability can reduce leg muscle power and overall performance.
Objectives: This study aims to test the impact of plyometric training using step-up and lateral box jumps on the improvement of leg muscle power in youth school futsal athletes.
Methods: A quasi-experimental single-group pretest-posttest design was conducted with 40 male participants over a four-week plyometric training program. Leg muscle power was measured using a vertical jump test before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using a t-test with the assistance of SPSS.
Results: Both step-up and lateral box jumps significantly increased leg muscle power (p < 0.05). The step-up group showed an average increase of 4.20 cm, while the lateral box jump group showed an average increase of 3.45 cm, with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.326).
Conclusions: Both training methods effectively enhance leg muscle power and can be integrated into school-based futsal training programs to improve performance.
APA Citation StyleKurniawan, R. S. , Fahmi, D. A. , & Setiyawan, S. (2025). Impact of plyometric training using step-up and lateral box jumps on the improvement of leg muscle power in youth school futsal athletes. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 212-221. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.611 -
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 -
Professional and Elite Young Soccer Players: Differences in Functional Movement ScreenTM Values
Italo Sannicandro1, Giacomo Cofano2, Rosario D'Onofrio3, Andrea Piccinno41. Clinical and Experimental Medicine Department, University of Foggia , IT2. Master degree in Sciences and techniques of preventive and adapted motor activities, University of Foggia; Professional Soccer Strenght and Conditioning , IT3. Member of the Medical-Scientific Multidisciplinary Commission, Italian Football Doctors Association - L.A.M.I.CA. , IT4. Master degree in Motor Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce , IT2023-10-31|page 116-125AbstractBackground: Soccer is a sport that requires very complex movements performed at high speeds: running, jumping, decelerating, changing direction or running direction, and kicking are complex movements that require high control and significant joint stability at all ages. Control of the body and individual body districts becomes important for both performance and injury prevention.
Objective: This study aims to verify the Functional Movement Screen (FMSTM) values in different categories of players, from the youth leagues to professional soccer players.
Methods: A sample of soccer players (n=112) took part in the study. The sample was subdivided according to their category, resulting in the following subgroups: a) professional soccer players (PSP, n=56,), Under 19 - Primavera (U19, n=29), Under 17 (U17, n=27). The FMS protocol was used to assess the seven functional movements and the associated risk of non-contact injury.
Results: Statistically significant differences emerged in the total scores between the U17 group and the PSP group (14.8±2.9 vs 19.1±1.4, p<0.01), between the U17 group and the Under 19 - Primavera group (14.8±2.9 vs 16.2±2.1, p<0.05) and between the Under 19 - Primavera group and the PSP (16.2±2.1 vs 19.1±1.4, p<0.01).
Conclusion: The values obtained show that young soccer players have a very different qualitative control of movement than highly qualified players. This study shows significant differences not only between the total scores, but more importantly between the individual 7 assessment tests that the FMS protocol includes: these values provide insight into which movements should receive more attention in athletic conditioning in the youth sector.
APA Citation StyleSannicandro, I. , Cofano, G. , D'Onofrio, R. , & Piccinno, A. (2023). Professional and Elite Young Soccer Players: Differences in Functional Movement ScreenTM Values. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 116-125. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v2i2.269 -
The combination of plyometric and ladder drills can improve acceleration and footwork skills in badminton players
Muhammad Labib Siena Ar Rasyid1, Oce Wiriawan2, Afif Rusdiawan3, Laily Mita Andriana4, Enarnimas Dwi Ratna Damayanti51. Department of Sports Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2. Department of Sports Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID3. Department of Sports Science, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID4. Department of Sports Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID5. Department of Sports Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2026-03-08|page 28-39AbstractBackground: Recognized globally as the fastest racket sport in the world, badminton demands exceptional acceleration and footwork skills for competitive success. However, many intermediate players often struggle to produce the explosive power needed for fast-paced rallies. To enhance these physical attributes, targeted training interventions, such as a hybrid regimen of plyometric and ladder drills, are often required.
Objectives: This study aims to analyze the efficacy of integrating plyometric exercises with ladder drills in enhancing acceleration and footwork proficiency among badminton players.
Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. Through purposive sampling, 24 male participants (aged 14-16 years) with at least 2 years of training experience, good health, and no history of recent injuries were selected. They were assigned to either the PLD Group (age: 15.00 ± 0.74 years; height: 162.00 ± 0.07 cm; weight: 50.58 ± 5.68 kg; BMI: 19.20 ± 0.88 kg/m²) or the CV Group (age: 15.00 ± 0.85 years; height: 162.08 ± 0.08 cm; weight: 51.75 ± 8.05 kg; BMI: 19.59 ± 1.56 kg/m²). The intervention spanned six weeks, with three sessions per week. Performance in acceleration was assessed using a 10-meter sprint, and footwork skills were assessed using the footwork skills test (Tohar version) pre- and post-intervention. Data analysis employed the Wilcoxon signed-rank and the Mann-Whitney tests.
Results: The Wilcoxon analysis indicated that both the PLD and CV Groups achieved improvements in acceleration and footwork skills (p<0.05). However, the Mann-Whitney test revealed a statistically significant difference between the two groups, with the PLD Group demonstrating superior gains in both acceleration (p<0.05) and footwork skills (p<0.05) compared to the CV Group.
Conclusions: Integrating plyometric training and ladder drills is an effective strategy for significantly improving acceleration and footwork skills in badminton players.
APA Citation StyleRasyid, M. L. S. A. , Wiriawan, O. , Rusdiawan, A. , Andriana, L. M. , & Damayanti, E. D. R. (2026). The combination of plyometric and ladder drills can improve acceleration and footwork skills in badminton players. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 28-39. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.669 -
Predictors of cardiorespiratory endurance in martial arts athletes: A path analysis of body composition, hemoglobin, and motivation
Novanto Ponco Nugroho 1, Dani Nur Riyadi2, Aridhotul Haqiyah31. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID3. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2025-07-01|page 83-94AbstractBackground: Cardiorespiratory endurance is vital to athletic performance, particularly in sports requiring sustained physical exertion such as martial arts.
Objectives: This study examined the predictive roles of body composition (BMI), hemoglobin concentration, and motivation on cardiorespiratory endurance among university-level martial arts athletes.
Methods: Using a quantitative path analysis design, data were collected from 20 purposively selected martial arts athletes who regularly trained. Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed via the multistage fitness test, BMI was calculated using standard anthropometric measures, hemoglobin was measured using the Harenz scale, and motivation was evaluated with a validated Likert-scale questionnaire.
Results: The analysis showed that BMI (ρ = 0.705, t = 3.071, p = 0.007) and hemoglobin concentration (ρ = 0.946, t = 4.672, p < 0.001) had significant positive effects on cardiorespiratory endurance. Motivation, however, did not have a significant direct effect (ρ = 0.087, t = 0.853, p = 0.203). Additionally, BMI correlated positively with both hemoglobin (ρ = 0.923, p < 0.001) and motivation (ρ = 0.670, p = 0.034), suggesting indirect effects through physiological mechanisms.
Conclusions: The findings underscore that physiological indicators, specifically BMI and hemoglobin, are more critical predictors of aerobic capacity than psychological factors like motivation in this athletic population. Due to sport-specific demands, these results may not be generalizable to non-martial arts athletes. Future studies should incorporate additional mediators such as training intensity and account for potential self-report bias in motivation assessments.
APA Citation StyleNugroho , N. P. , Riyadi, D. N. , & Haqiyah, A. (2025). Predictors of cardiorespiratory endurance in martial arts athletes: A path analysis of body composition, hemoglobin, and motivation. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 83-94. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.559 -
Immediate effect of thoracic spinal manipulation versus passive stretching on upper trapezius pain in university students: A randomized controlled trial
Sherin Nada Salsabila1, Adnan Faris Naufal21. Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2. Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2025-11-26|page 250-265AbstractBackground: Pain disorders in the upper trapezius muscle are often experienced by students due to non-ergonomic postures and excessive duration of device use. Interventions such as spinal manipulation and stretching exercises are non-invasive interventions often used to reduce pain and improve muscle function.
Objectives: This study compares the effectiveness of two interventions in reducing trapezius muscle pain among university students.
Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 40 physiotherapy students divided equally into two intervention groups. Group I received thoracic spinal manipulation, and Group II received passive stretching. Each intervention was administered in a single 15-minute session. Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) before and immediately after treatment. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test for within-group comparisons and the Mann–Whitney U test for between-group analysis, with an alpha level of 0.05.
Results: The Wilcoxon test revealed a significant decrease in pain within both groups (Group I: median pre 4.5 [3.63–5] to post 2.5 [1.50–3.38], p = 0.000, r = 0.879; Group II: median pre 4.25 [3–5] to post 1 [0.13–3], p = 0.000, r = 0.84), indicating a significant effect of both interventions. The Mann–Whitney U test showed no statistically significant difference in pain reduction between the two groups (median pain difference = 2 [1–3] for both, U = 186.5, Z = –0.375, p = 0.707, r = 0.06).
Conclusions: Both thoracic spinal manipulation and passive stretching were effective in reducing upper trapezius pain immediately after a single session, but no significant difference was found between the two interventions. These findings suggest that both approaches provide comparable short-term benefits; however, further research with larger samples, multiple sessions, and more extended follow-up periods is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy.
APA Citation StyleSalsabila, S. N. , & Naufal, A. F. (2025). Immediate effect of thoracic spinal manipulation versus passive stretching on upper trapezius pain in university students: A randomized controlled trial. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 250-265. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.634 -
Addendum: Professional and elite young soccer players: Differences in functional movement screen™ values
Italo Sannicandro1, Giacomo Cofano2, Rosario D'Onofrio3, Andrea Piccinno41. Clinical and Experimental Medicine Department, University of Foggia , IT2. Master degree in Sciences and techniques of preventive and adapted motor activities, University of Foggia; Professional Soccer Strenght and Conditioning , IT3. Member of the Medical-Scientific Multidisciplinary Commission, Italian Football Doctors Association - L.A.M.I.CA. , IT4. Master degree in Motor Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy , IT2026-04-10|page 84AbstractThis addendum provides additional statements on data availability and AI disclosure to enhance transparency and align the original article with current international publication standards. These updates do not affect the results, interpretation, or conclusions of the original publication.
APA Citation StyleSannicandro, I. , Cofano, G. , D'Onofrio, R. , & Piccinno, A. (2026). Addendum: Professional and elite young soccer players: Differences in functional movement screen™ values. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 84. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.732












