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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 -
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 -
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 -
Promoting gender responsiveness in teaching physical education
Ryan Cazel Lalog11. Batangas State University , PH2025-04-04|page 1-14AbstractBackground: Implementing gender policies in physical education at Batangas State University remains moderate, with challenges in ensuring gender-responsive and equitable activities for male and female students. Issues such as students' self-confidence, self-perception, and limited gender mainstreaming strategies and resources hinder the development of a more inclusive learning environment.
Objectives: This study examined gender policy implementation, the use of strategies and resources in various physical education activities, differences in male and female instructors' assessments, challenges in gender mainstreaming, and the development of gender-responsive activities.
Methods: A descriptive research method was used, collecting data from 105 university physical education instructors (77 males, 28 females) through a researcher-made survey questionnaire.
Results: Findings revealed that gender policies were moderately implemented (mean score: 3.47), while both male (3.67) and female (3.63) instructors highly utilized strategies and resources in physical fitness, rhythmic activities, individual and dual sports, and team sports. No significant differences were observed in male and female educators' assessments, indicating shared perspectives on gender mainstreaming.
Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need for more vigorous policy enforcement and improvements in sports-related content to enhance gender inclusivity. Addressing self-confidence, self-perception, and individual differences is crucial for fostering equitable learning experiences. Universities should provide continuous professional development for PE instructors on gender-sensitive teaching strategies. Future research should explore the long-term impact of gender-responsive approaches on student engagement, performance, and overall well-being in physical education.
APA Citation StyleLalog, R. C. (2025). Promoting gender responsiveness in teaching physical education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 1-14. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.392 -
An analysis of anxiety levels among volleyball athletes during a provincial inter-club tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia
Rea Rizkita Raga1, Yunita Lasma21. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2025-07-27|page 175-185AbstractBackground: Competitive anxiety is a key psychological factor that can significantly affect an athlete's performance. In volleyball, high-pressure situations often lead to anxiety, potentially hindering players' ability to perform optimally.
Objectives: This study aims to assess the levels of anxiety experienced by volleyball athletes competing in the Special Capital Region Jakarta Inter-Club Provincial Championship.
Methods: A descriptive quantitative design was used, with data collected through a survey involving 70 volleyball athletes. The instrument used was a 35-item anxiety questionnaire categorized into two phases: before the match (18 items) and during the match (17 items). Responses were measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Validity testing confirmed all items were valid, and the instrument showed high reliability (α = 0.954), as analyzed using SPSS 23.
Results: During the match, 35.7% of athletes experienced high anxiety, while 64.3% showed low anxiety. Prior to the match, 44.3% reported high anxiety and 55.7% reported low anxiety. Overall, 36.6% of athletes showed high anxiety levels, while 61.4% displayed low levels. These results indicate that most athletes have relatively good emotional regulation abilities in competitive situations.
Conclusions: The study underscores the critical role of psychological readiness in athletic performance. Coaches and policymakers are encouraged to integrate structured mental training programs into athlete development. Future research should explore variables contributing to anxiety, such as playing position, competitive experience, and demographic factors like age and gender.
APA Citation StyleRaga, R. R. , & Lasma, Y. (2025). An analysis of anxiety levels among volleyball athletes during a provincial inter-club tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 175-185. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.605 -
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 -
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 -
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












