sismes vi national congress

89
ABSTRACTS SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS Naples, 26–28 September 2014 The Marcello Faina Lecture Fitness and health effects of recreational football for untrained individuals across the life span Peter Krustrup University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Centre for Team Sports and Health, Denmark, and University of Exeter, Sport and Health Sciences, UK Inactivity and poor physical fitness are major contributors to the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. It is now well-known that physical training is a cornerstone in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle diseases and it has recently been concluded that sport participation reduces all-cause mortality by 20–40 % (Khan et al. 2012). However, less is known about the specific fitness and health benefits of various types of physical activity and sports. Most training studies have investigated moderate-intensity aerobic exercise training or strength training, but over the last decade an increasing amount of evidence suggest that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be an effective method to improve performance and health. Since 2006, we have conducted a series of randomized controlled trials investigating the activity profile, physiological demands, fitness effects and health benefits of recreational football for untrained indi- viduals across the lifespan. A total of 55 scientific articles have been published in this period, documenting that small-sided football has broad spectrum fitness and health effects for 6–80 year-old participants, as it combines elements of HIIT, endurance and strength training (Krustrup et al. 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014). Small-sided football played 3v3, 5v5 or 7v7 elicits high heart rates and involves multiple intense actions such as sprints, turns, jumps, tackles, dribbles and shots, independently of age, gender, fitness status, socio-economic status and prior experience (Randers et al. 2010, 2012). The high average heart rates and periods with near-maximal heart rates provide effective cardiovascular training with multiple effects on maximal oxygen uptake, heart structure and function, endothelial function, capillarisation, lipid profile and oxidative enzyme activity. Additionally, the football-specific intense actions involves all muscle groups and provide multiple favorable effects on muscle mass, muscle function, postural balance and bone mineralization (Krustrup et al. 2010; Helge et al. 2010, 2014). These findings are of great public interest, considering that football is the most popular sport in the world with an estimated 400 million active players. Football also has positive motivational and social factors that may facilitate compliance and persistence with the sport and contribute to the achievement and maintenance of a physically active lifestyle. Recently, the health effects of football have been investigated specifically for patient groups with mild-to-moderate hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Just 3 months of football training, 2 9 1 h per week, lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 12/8, 8/8 and 11/9 mmHg, respectively, in the studies by Krustrup et al. (2013), Schmidt et al. (2013) and Knoepfli-Lenzin et al. (2010), which is a more pronounced effect than usually seen after 3–6 months of aerobic moderate-intensity training or strength training. In one of these studies, three-quarters of the participants normalized their blood pressure during the football training period (Krustrup et al. 2013), and the participants had additional benefits that lowered their cardio- vascular risk, including an increase in VO 2 max, improved cardiac and endothelial function and a lowered fat mass (Krustrup et al. 2013; Andersen et al. 2014). In a special issue of Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports being published in June 2014, we have also presented data showing that football is a feasible and effective type of training for 65–80-year-old sedentary men (Rostgaard Andersen et al. 2014; Helge et al. 2014), which improves bone mineralization, func- tional capacity and VO 2 max within 3 months. These results and other recent results will be presented at the conference, altogether providing evidence that recreational football is an effective type of HIIT training that can improve fitness and serve as prevention and treatment of life- style diseases for individuals across the life span. Abbreviation Session AP ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DS NEW DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIES APPLIED TO MOVEMENT AND SPORT SCIENCES FF FITNESS AND FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION FP FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE ML MOVEMENT LEARNING, PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND COACHING MS MOVEMENT AND SPORT ACTIVITY IN A SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND LEGAL CONTEXT PA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, WELLBEING AND HEALTH RT RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY APPLIED TO MATERIALS FOR SPORT TE TRAINING AND EVALUATION METHODS TN TRAINING AND NEUROMUSCULAR PERFORMANCE TP TRAINING AND PERFORMANCE TT TEACHING AND TRAINING APPLIED TO MOVEMENT SCIENCES Presentation type O KEYNOTE LECTURE OP ORAL PRESENTATION P POSTER 123 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 DOI 10.1007/s11332-014-0204-y

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Page 1: SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

ABSTRACTS

SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

Naples, 26–28 September 2014

The Marcello Faina Lecture

Fitness and health effects of recreational football for

untrained individuals across the life span

Peter Krustrup

University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Centre for Team Sports

and Health, Denmark, and University of Exeter, Sport and Health

Sciences, UK

Inactivity and poor physical fitness are major contributors to the

increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and

osteoporosis. It is now well-known that physical training is a cornerstone

in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle diseases and it has recently

been concluded that sport participation reduces all-cause mortality by

20–40 % (Khan et al. 2012). However, less is known about the specific

fitness and health benefits of various types of physical activity and sports.

Most training studies have investigated moderate-intensity aerobic

exercise training or strength training, but over the last decade an

increasing amount of evidence suggest that high-intensity interval

training (HIIT) may be an effective method to improve performance and

health. Since 2006, we have conducted a series of randomized controlled

trials investigating the activity profile, physiological demands, fitness

effects and health benefits of recreational football for untrained indi-

viduals across the lifespan. A total of 55 scientific articles have been

published in this period, documenting that small-sided football has broad

spectrum fitness and health effects for 6–80 year-old participants, as it

combines elements of HIIT, endurance and strength training (Krustrup

et al. 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014). Small-sided football played 3v3, 5v5 or

7v7 elicits high heart rates and involves multiple intense actions such as

sprints, turns, jumps, tackles, dribbles and shots, independently of age,

gender, fitness status, socio-economic status and prior experience

(Randers et al. 2010, 2012). The high average heart rates and periods

with near-maximal heart rates provide effective cardiovascular training

with multiple effects on maximal oxygen uptake, heart structure and

function, endothelial function, capillarisation, lipid profile and oxidative

enzyme activity. Additionally, the football-specific intense actions

involves all muscle groups and provide multiple favorable effects on

muscle mass, muscle function, postural balance and bone mineralization

(Krustrup et al. 2010; Helge et al. 2010, 2014). These findings are of

great public interest, considering that football is the most popular sport in

the world with an estimated 400 million active players. Football also has

positive motivational and social factors that may facilitate compliance

and persistence with the sport and contribute to the achievement and

maintenance of a physically active lifestyle. Recently, the health effects

of football have been investigated specifically for patient groups with

mild-to-moderate hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Just 3 months of

football training, 2 9 1 h per week, lowered systolic and diastolic blood

pressure by 12/8, 8/8 and 11/9 mmHg, respectively, in the studies by

Krustrup et al. (2013), Schmidt et al. (2013) and Knoepfli-Lenzin et al.

(2010), which is a more pronounced effect than usually seen after

3–6 months of aerobic moderate-intensity training or strength training.

In one of these studies, three-quarters of the participants normalized their

blood pressure during the football training period (Krustrup et al. 2013),

and the participants had additional benefits that lowered their cardio-

vascular risk, including an increase in VO2max, improved cardiac and

endothelial function and a lowered fat mass (Krustrup et al. 2013;

Andersen et al. 2014). In a special issue of Scandinavian Journal of

Medicine and Science in Sports being published in June 2014, we have

also presented data showing that football is a feasible and effective type

of training for 65–80-year-old sedentary men (Rostgaard Andersen et al.

2014; Helge et al. 2014), which improves bone mineralization, func-

tional capacity and VO2max within 3 months. These results and other

recent results will be presented at the conference, altogether providing

evidence that recreational football is an effective type of HIIT training

that can improve fitness and serve as prevention and treatment of life-

style diseases for individuals across the life span.

Abbreviation Session

AP ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

DS NEW DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIES APPLIED TO

MOVEMENT AND SPORT SCIENCES

FF FITNESS AND FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION

FP FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE

ML MOVEMENT LEARNING,

PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

AND COACHING

MS MOVEMENT AND SPORT ACTIVITY IN A

SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND LEGAL CONTEXT

PA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, WELLBEING AND

HEALTH

RT RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY APPLIED TO

MATERIALS FOR SPORT

TE TRAINING AND EVALUATION METHODS

TN TRAINING AND NEUROMUSCULAR

PERFORMANCE

TP TRAINING AND PERFORMANCE

TT TEACHING AND TRAINING APPLIED TO

MOVEMENT SCIENCES

Presentation type

O KEYNOTE LECTURE

OP ORAL PRESENTATION

P POSTER

123

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

DOI 10.1007/s11332-014-0204-y

Page 2: SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

TEACHING AND TRAINING APPLIED TOMOVEMENT SCIENCES

1 TT O

Education as promotion of resources: a comparison

between sport and non-sport adolescents

A. Cunti, S. Bellantonio A. Priore

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim is explore the coping strategies differences between

sport and non-sport adolescents, beginning from the relation between

coping and its educational connotations. The interest concerns how an

educative directed sport experience can contribute to formation of

identity toward wellness, in which is emphasized the ability to cope

with critical situations.

Method: 395 adolescents (12–14 years; F = 205, M = 190) partic-

ipated: 209 practiced individual or team sport, while 186 don’t

practice competitive sport. A battery of questionnaires was used: a

socio-demographic questionnaire, CISS, TMA and a narrative input

that has helped us to deeply understand the phenomenon.

Results: Quantitative results show that the female athletes who

practice gymnastics and swimming mostly use strategies task oriented

and less use strategies emotion oriented through distraction and social

diversion. The less of these strategies becomes even more marked in

the athletes who practice swimming. While non-sport adolescents

mostly use strategies emotion and avoidance oriented. Qualitative

analysis on female gymnasts and male soccer players confirmed that

coping task oriented is privileged in individual sports, particularly

from female.

Conclusion: Could be a relation between the development of certain

coping strategies and the quality of sports practiced. Some individual

sports seem to promote the acquisition of a coping task oriented. From

an educative point of view, being the sport a context of great

importance in the lives of adolescents, it’s necessary to improve the

quality of sport contexts to promote the resources in order to devel-

opmental tasks.

ReferencesBergamini L, Pedrabissi L (2010) TMA—test di valutazione multi-

dimensionale dell’autostima (Bracken B.), Erickson, Trento

Ekeland E, Heian F, Hagen KB (2005) Can exercise improve self-

esteem in children and young people? A systematic review of

randomized controlled trials. Br J Sport Med 39:792–798

Endler NS, Parker JDA (1999) The coping inventory for stressful

situations (CISS). Multi-Health Systems, Toronto

Nicholls AR, Jones CR, Polman RCJ, Borkoles E (2009) Acute sport-

related stressors, coping, and emotion among professional rugby

union players during training and matches. Scand J Med Sci Sport

19(1):113–120

Sirigatti S, Stefanile C, Lera S (2011) In: Endler NS, Parker JDA (eds)

CISS—coping inventory for stressful situations. Giunti, Firenze

2 TT OP

Teaching method in physical education and sport

A. Benevento1, D. Tafuri2, F. Gomez Paloma1, G. Raiola2

1Department of Human Science and Formation, University

of Salerno, Salerno, Italy2Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: Didactics of physical education and sport is traditionally

imparted by tutorials. This work carry out the principal theory on

motor control and learning and its relationship among the teaching

method and the pedagogical issue.

Method: Theoretical approach to define the theory on motor control.

Argumentative approach to deduce the relationship among the several

aspects in order the learning skill. Deductive approach to transfer the

principal aspects of scientific paradigms into mind theory.

Results: It teaches usually by tutorials that have the theoretical basis

in the Cognitive approach. It means the process in greater detail:

order, command, biomechanics, errors and its correction by process

called parameterization. The type of activities are Partial, Varied,

Randomized, by Feedback and Mental Training and it refers to the

models of motor control titled Open Loop, Closed Loop and Motor

Program Generalized. It is also imparted by another way, called

Ecological-Dynamic approach that is the combination of actions in

relation to environment. It does not give out the tutorials, but it builds

a setting learning to enhance the stimuli into the environment, so it

aims the several learnings. It refers of Motor Imagery and Freedom

Degrees theories. The first one could be realized in first person and in

third person; the second one could be realized in three consecutive

steps: Reduction, Exploration and Capitalization of freedom degrees.

Conclusion: Main results show two types of correspondence. The

first one is between cognitive approach, strong correspondence among

order, demand, sequence and timing steps and mind theory of

Behaviorism and Cognitivist theory. The second one is between

ecological dynamic approach, strong correspondence among setting

learning and specific strategies of teaching method such as coopera-

tive learning, role play and others, and Phenomenology and Gestalt

theory. In one is preeminent the invasive role of the coach trainer

teacher in cognitive approach and non invasive role in ecological

dynamic approach.

ReferencesRaiola G (2014) Motor control and learning skills according to cognitive

and ecological dynamic approach. Mediterr J Soc Sci 5(11)

Raiola G, Tafuri D, Gomez Paloma F (2014) Physical activity and

sport skills and its relation to mind theory on motor control. Sport

Sci 8(2)

123

S2 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

Page 3: SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

3 TT OP

Mother and child in water: effects of communication

M. T. Cattaneo, A. Veloce

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the role of facial

expressions, gestures, postures, and how a mother’s tone of voice

(aspects of non-verbal communication) can influence, in both a

positive and negative way, a baby’s reaction when in water. This

study will also include if this aquatic neonatal type of experience

can improve the relationship between mother and child in their daily

life.

Method: The sample consists of 60 pairs of mother–child: children

have an age ranging between 4 months to 36 months. In the sample

there are 32 couples who have never had experience of neonatal

aquacity and 28 couples who have already participated in one. A

questionnaire divided in three parts was created: the first two were

administrated before the first lesson and the third one after a month of

classes. The first two parts regarding the motivations and the expec-

tations in attending the course together with the general mood and the

description of the children’s behaviour. The third part is inherent to

the familiarity with the situation.

Results: The analysis of the data of the first and second part of the

questionnaire showed a correlation between the familiarity of water of

the mother and her state of mind with the reaction of the child: 32 %

of the mothers declared that they felt anxiety and 37 % of the mothers

were worried, while the other 39 % felt curious and the remaining

27 % were calm. The most important data that emerges is the dif-

ference. 44 % of the mothers emphasize how relationships with

children are modified through this experience.

Conclusion: The first time analyzing the data suggested how powerful

non-verbal communication is and how it’s able to transmit, throughout

its channels, mothers emotions and reactions against their children also

across a program of aquaticity: the child will be influenced in his/hers

answers by communication. The data analysis also shows the role that

the instructor plays and his knowledge of these factors.

ReferencesAnolli L (2012) Psicologia della comunicazione. Il Mulino, Bologna

Bowlby J (1989) Una base sicura. Cortina, Milano

Morris D (1977) L’uomo e i suoi gesti. Mondadori, Milan

4 TT OP

Quality physical education: teachers attitude toward

the education based on evidence and practice based

on evidence

S. Cazzoli1, F. Gallo2, R. Scaglia3

1University of Torino, Adjunct Professor, Torino, Italy2Epidemiology Unit, Citta della Salute e della Scienza Hospital,

Torino, Italy3Head teacher secondary school second grade, Rivoli (Torino), Italy

Aim: Study was to analyze the teachers attitude for improve the

quality of PE. It was preliminary study and want to analyze the

attitude toward the PE subject legal status, teacher professional status,

horizontal continuity between PE and Sports projects, PE research for

to develop attitude toward Education Based on Evidence (EBE) and

Practice Based on Evidence (PBE).

Methods: Data from questionnaires were analyzed through frequency

tables and percentages. For quantitative variables (teachers’ age and

years of teaching experience) the median value was calculated.

Teachers were divided according to gender (males and females) and

teaching experience (2–9 years and 10–20 years). To detect differ-

ences among these groups the Pearson’s Chi square test and the Fisher

exact test were used the latter for counts smaller than five.

Results: Questionnaires from 44 teachers (21 males and 23 females)

were analyzed. Average age is 42 years for both sexes average for

years of teaching experience is 8.6 for males and 10.4 for females.

Considering the teachers’ gender both sexes consider PE with the same

legal status as other subjects. The majority of teachers consider PE as

important as other subjects (52.4 % of males and 60.9 % of females).

Also most of teachers consider their professional status the same as

that of teachers of other subjects (76.2 % of males and 78.3 % of

females). Moreover teachers generally think that no projects exist for

providing PE in continuity programmes (52.4 % of males and 34.8 %

of females). Considering the teachers’ years of experience significant

differences were observed in the importance of PE and in continuity of

programmes. Actually, 27.8 % of less experienced teachers consider

PE less important than other subjects, while this percentage reached

85.0 % among more experienced ones (p \ 0.001). While 5.6 % of

less experience teachers think that continuity programmes in PE exist

versus 65.0 % of more experienced teachers (p \ 0.001). Out of all 44

teachers 36 think that research is a right/duty in PE teaching. Moreover

56.8 % consider applied research a fundamental issue in PE teaching

practice, and 40.9 % recognise the importance of quantitative

research, 45.5 and 47.7 % consider relevant analytical and experi-

mental research respectively.

Conclusion: Data showed that the quality of PE required orientation

towards projects of continuity between physical education and sport,

and toward research in order to create evidence that can guide best

practices.

5 TT OP

Fundamental motor skills assessment with TGMD-2

and of the physical activity levels of children in relation

to Body Mass Index

D. Colella1,2, S. Epifani2, N. Mancini2, C. Simonetti1

1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University

of Foggia, Foggia, Italy2Laboratory of Didactics of Motor Activities, University of Foggia,

Foggia, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the fun-

damental motor skills (FMS) and physical activity levels, according to

group differences, Nw vs. Ow-Ob, of primary school’s children. The

FMS is a component of the motor development of the child and the

foundation for the learning of motor skills specific. Numerous and

variables motor tasks, promote the links between skills and of motor

abilities. The levels of development of FMS are in relation to levels of

physical activity and to the development of the motor abilities and

encourage the educational process.

Method: The sample of 102 children (M = 57, F = 45), divided

according to gender differences and group (M Nw: N = 32; age

9.34 ± 0.70; BMI 16.29 ± 1.60; M Ow-Ob: N = 25; age

9.28 ± 0.84; BMI 25.47 ± 3.85; F Nw: N = 27; age 9.11 ± 0.69;

BMI 16.53 ± 1.87; F Ow-Ob: N = 18; age 9.50 ± 1.71; BMI

23.07 ± 3.17). At all children was proposed the TGMD-2, two motor

tests: shuttle run 10 9 4, 20 m speed slalom basketball and the

questionnaire PAQ_C.

123

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S3

Page 4: SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

Results: Apart from the descriptive statistics (M ± DS), Student’s T

Test was carried out, in order to highlight the significant differences

within the group. The significativity index was set to p \ 0.05.

ANOVA 2 (group): in the test TGMD-2, females Nw vs. Ob-Ow,

showed high scores and superior performance in motor tests and self-

report Paq_C (p B 0.05). The males Nw vs. Ob-Ow, showed superior

performance in TGMD-2 (p = ns), in motor test and self-report

Paq_C (p \ 0.05).

Conclusion: Overweight and obesity in childhood influencing the

levels of daily physical activity and motor development. The

process of growth and maturation is favored by structured

and unstructured physical activity in mutual relationship. School-

based interventions can promote increased levels of physical

activity in children with motor skills and educate physically active

lifestyles.

ReferencesCohen KE et al (2014) Fundamental movement skills and physical

activity among children living in low-income communities: a

cross-sectional study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Activity 11:49

Crocker PRE et al (1997) Measuring general levels of physical

activity: preliminary evidence for the physical activity question-

naire for older children. Med Sci Sports Exerc 29:1344–1349

Hirtz P (2002) Co-ordinative competence and health. J Hum Kinetics

7:23–28

Ulrich DA (2000) The test of gross motor development, 2nd edn.

PRO-ED, Austin

6 TT OP

Sport, training and performance: a critical review

V. E. Leonardi1, M. L. Iavarone2

1CONI, School of Sport, Naples, Italy2Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The researches on the possibilities to fully develop the abilities

of physical performances began around the 1940s and then they were

carried widely on in the ex Soviet socialist republics during the years

of the cold war. Today, these studies, with new methodologies of

analysis and relative researches, follow one another incessantly to

prevent the statement of a complete theory which can lead and control

the training processes in all sports disciplines. New principles are

added to the standard model, new laws are discovered, different

hypothesis, not yet scientifically proved, are formulated. What prob-

abilities do we have, therefore, to build a unified theory able to lead to

courses of control and long-term forecasts? The contribution explores

the possibility to insert, in a coherent context, a synthesis of the

studies carried on which takes into account the whole of the observed

phenomena and which finds its ‘‘nulpunkt’’ in the starting conditions,

that is, in the genetic individuality, an insurmountable problem at

present.

Method: The study, through the contribution of different authors and

a critical review of the most reliable theories and approaches on the

sports training, focuses on the still open issues which will surely open

to perspectives of future researches.

Results/conclusion: Today we have right and scientifically proved

ideas on how to start processes aiming at developing the utmost sports

performances. The problems arise long-term when the body is in

extreme conditions of adaptation. The idea of ‘‘singularity’’ is sug-

gested, that is; a ‘‘physical place’’ where the laws that before

governed the system give up existing with three possible different

perspectives of reading.

ReferencesAtsiorsky, Kreamer J (2007) Science and practice of strength training,

Champaign, III Human Kinetic

Jesper L, Anderson P, Saltin B (2000) Atleti si nasce o si diventa? Le

Scienze 387:49–57

Tschiene P (2001) Lo stato attuale della teoria dell’allenamento, SdS

Mc Grew-Hill Book Co., 52, pp 2–6

Platanov VN (2005) Supercompensazione, carichi, adattamento ed

alcuni altri problemi della Scienza dello Sport, SdS, p 66

Selye H (1956) The stress of life. New York

Verchoschansky YV, Verchoschanskaya N (2007) Il cambiamento dei

paradigmi nella teoria dell’allenamento sportivo. SdS, p 74

7 TT OP

Physical education in Italian school: a multicenter

investigation about experiences and opinions

of undergraduate students

G. Liguori1, F. Galle1, V. Di Onofrio1, M. Arpesella2, G. Brandi3,

S. Bruno4, G. Capelli5, E. Carraro6, L. Fabiani7, G. Fantuzzi8,

G. M. Grasso9, O. C. Grillo10, M. Guida11, A. Izzotti12, E. Leoni13,

C. Mammina14, L. Manzoli15, L. Minelli16, C. Napoli17, C. Nobile18,

M. Parpinel19, C. Pasquarella20, R. Prato21, G. P. Privitera22,

C. Signorelli20, V. Romano Spica23, S. Tardivo24; SItI Working Group

‘‘Movement Sciences for Health’’ (GMSH)

1University Parthenope, Naples2University of Pavia3University Carlo Bo, Urbino4Catholic University Sacred Heart, Rome5University of Cassino6University of Turin7University of L’Aquila8University of Modena and Reggio Emilia9University of Molise10University of Messina11University Federico II, Naples12University of Genoa13University of Bologna14University of Palermo15University G. D’Annunzio, Chieti16University of Perugia17University of Bari18University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro19University of Udine20University of Parma21University of Foggia22University of Pisa23University Foro Italico, Rome24University of Verona

Aim: Physical Education (PE) contributes to improve physical fitness

of children and adolescents and favors the adoption of an active

lifestyle. Furthermore, it may represent a useful instrument for health

promotion. However, in the Italian school the role of PE is under-

estimated: only few lesson hours are assigned weekly to this teaching,

mainly in primary school, where PE teachers have no expertise in

movement sciences. The Working Group ‘‘Movement Sciences for

Health’’ (GMSH) of the Italian Society of Hygiene is conducting a

multicenter investigation on the whole national area in order to

evaluate the current state of PE in Italy and its efficacy in promoting

Physical Activity (PA) and sport. The survey is based on the point of

S4 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

123

Page 5: SISMES VI NATIONAL CONGRESS

view of the 1st-year university students, who leaved schools no long

before the interview.

Method: An anonymous questionnaire has been administered to fresh-

men from study courses belonging to Movement Sciences, Humanistic,

Medical, Scientific/Technological, Economic/Juridical fields. Informa-

tion concerning PE received by students since primary school, their

opinions about PE and their current practice of PA/sport were collected.

Results: At now, about 7,000 questionnaires have been obtained from

the participant universities. At the end of the survey, data will be

processed with the software SPSS 22.0 for Windows. Logistic

regression models will be applied to evaluate the influence of PE

received on PA/sport practice. Possible differences among the country

areas will be also analyzed.

Conclusions: Scientific literature shows as PE may be useful to reach

the weekly levels of PA recommended for school-aged children and

adolescents and may address these subjects toward an active life. The

results of this study will be employed to evaluate if this occurs in Italy

and to identify critical aspects which interfere with PA promotion and

which could represent targets for new prevention strategies.

8 TT OP Victimization in primary school, bullying

and the role of physical activity inside and outside school

A. Nart1, C. Lucchetti1, V. Biancalana1

Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Motor Sciences,

University of Urbino ‘‘Carlo Bo’’, Italy

Aim: In the school years between 6 and 10 years old, children

identify leaders who can have a positive or negative effect on the

dynamics of the class. The aim of this study was to evaluate the

degree of victimization among boys and girls during school motor

activity and the relationship between victimization and physical

activity inside and outside school.

Method: Participants in the study were 298 pupils (192 boys, 106

girls) aged from 8–10 (average 9), attending primary school. The

research was carried out using a questionnaire based on the Multi-

dimensional Peer-Victimization Scale (MPVS) by Mynard and Joseph

(2000), italian version (Scarpa et al. 2010) and adapted to the age of

the subjects, to evaluate four areas of victimization (physical vic-

timization, verbal victimization, social manipulation and attack on

property). In addition, subjects were asked their age, sex and which

physical activities they practiced in and out of school.

Results: Statistical analysis has highlighted that, in the four areas of

victimization, the subscales verbal (r = 2.2618) and social

(r = 1.9688) obtained a higher statistical average compared to the

subscales social manipulation (r = 1.6366) and attack on property

(r = 1.637). In the relationship between victimization and gender,

males had a higher score compared to females in the subscale verbal

(r = 2.2618 [ r = 1.2819) and in the subscale social

(r = 1.9688 [ r = 1.2044). In the relationship between victimization

and sports practice, the subscales verbal (r = 3.0725 [ r = 1.5621)

and social (r = 2.581 [ r = 1.4254) are greater in subjects who

practice physical activity only at school, compared to those who

practise also out with the school timetable.

Conclusion: The study has confirmed characteristics already present

in literature. The results have highlighted that cases of verbal and

social victimization outnumber those of physical victimization, that

boys are more victimized than girls during physical activity and that

those subjects who engage in physical activity only at school expe-

rience a higher degree of victimization compared to those who

practice physical activity outside school.

ReferencesMynard H, Joseph S (2000) Development of the multidimensional

peer-victimization scale. Aggressive Behav 26:169–178

Carraro A et al (2011) Un contributo alla validazione italiana della

Scala Multidimensionale di Vittimizzazione tra Pari. Giornale di

Psicologia dello Sport, 38(1):177–188

Scarpa S et al (2012) Peer-victimization during physical education and

enjoyment of physical activity. Percept Motor Skills 115:319–324

MOVEMENT AND SPORT ACTIVITYIN A SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANDLEGAL CONTEXT

9 MS O

The process of major sport events communication:

determinants of choice

A. Sorrentini, V. Raiola

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this paper is to address the motivations of changes

taking place in communication policies of sport events of interna-

tional relevance specifically related to multimedia communication.

The communication policies of sport events are in fact evolving from

the traditional ones, defined ‘‘above-the-line’’ (activities such as

classic print, radio, TV, billboards, and recently, web campaigns and

temporary website) to those based on an unconventional communi-

cation broadly defined ‘‘below-the-line’’ (activities conducted away

from traditional media communication, such as sponsorship, public

relations, direct marketing and promotions) up to the recent adoption

of a two-dimensional communication between consumer and pro-

ducer made possible by the development of web and the capability to

embrace policies of digital marketing (through-the-line).

Method: Case-studies concerning with America’s Cup 2013 sailing

competition, and the Tennis Cup Napoli 2013 tennis tournament were

developed by a documentary analysis and interviews with the main

professionals responsible for communication. In particular, the

agencies that have dealt with the communication of these events have

been identified such as survey respondents.

Results: The factors that drive the agencies operating in the field of

sport events communication of international relevance to turn their

attention to the policies of through-the-line communication have been

identified. The factors that emerge are: easy access to the medium, the

opportunity to reach a broad audience with limited costs and the direct

audience integration with the consequent possibility to control in real

time the messages effectiveness.

Conclusion: Nevertheless the advantages and the perspectives of

development of through-the-line communication, it appears not possible

to limit communication activities to digital marketing but it is necessary to

look for the optimal communication mix of the different forms examined

in terms of event typology, size of the audience reached and costs.

ReferencesCollesei U (2012) L’evoluzione del ruolo della comunicazione

nell’approccio di marketing. Sinergie, p 89

Hur Y, Ko YJ, Claussen CL (2012) Determinants of using sports web

portals: an empirical examination of the Sport Website Acceptance

Model. Int J Sports Marketing Sponsorship 13(3):169–188

Sorrentini A (2010) Il business degli eventi sportivi—aspetti strategici

ed operativi. Giappichelli, Torino

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S5

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10 MS OP

The strategy of implementation of Corporate Social

Responsibility (CSR) in the Italian professional football

companies

L. Agliano

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this paper is to investigate the role and strategic

value of CSR in professional football in terms of social, economic and

environmental impacts on specific groups of stakeholders and, in

general, on the community. The CSR should be seen an opportunistic

concept to improve the strategy, awareness and integration of the CSR

in the business of football, promoting the competitiveness of the game

and creating added value for all stakeholders involved directly or

indirectly in the event of football.

Method: The paper analyzes the implementation of CSR in profes-

sional sports clubs in the European and international field on the basis

of a documentary research considering the literature on the subject,

too. The research points out the necessity to extend the study of CSR

in the Italian professional football. The documentary research shows

the dissemination and application of the social report among profes-

sional football clubs affiliated to the FIGC. Furthermore, an

interpretative model of the contents and methods to be used for the

preparation of social report has been developed.

Results: The study carried out that in the Italian professional football

clubs there isn’t a great sensitivity towards their own social respon-

sibility and its instruments, due to the uncertainty about the usefulness

of social report, as it is already considered inherent in the sports

culture.

Conclusion: The European and international research has confirmed

the growing need for stakeholder management to establish an effec-

tive governance and strategic management. In the most advanced

clubs the CSR is already being used to give stakeholders information

about economic, social and political aspects strictly related to the

professional football companies, included the issues outside their

sports sphere of activity.

ReferencesAgliano L (2011) La responsabilita sociale delle organizzazioni

sportive, Enzo Albano Editore, Napoli

Breitbarth T, Harris P (2008) The role of corporate social responsi-

bility in the football business: towards the development of a

conceptual model. Eur Sport Manag Q 8(2):179–206

Barn SS, Baines PR (2004) Fulham FC: club-supporter relationship

‘come all ye faithful’. In: Harris P, McDonald F (eds) European

business and marketing. Sage, London

ILO (2003) FIFA and ILO team up on worldwide campaign to fight

child labour (press release)

11 MS OP

Toward active cities: educational, social, health,

and town-planning implications

A. Borgogni

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The call for inter-sectorial strategies to improve people’s

physical activity (PA) is encountering a growing attention. The

concept of body-friendly urban environment is deeply rooted in the

parallel history of body and town-planning dating back at least to the

nineteenth century when the hygienic problems led toward massive

rehabilitations in European cities. Since the last decades of the

twentieth century’s a reaction toward the car-oriented planning

supremacy has been witnessed. The body is nowadays undertaking a

crucial role of indicator of the city live ability in the challenge for the

global sustainability of the city.

In this light, systematized by the WHO and linked to the Healthy City

network, the active city (AC) approach is emerging as a prospective

inter-sectorial strategy to deal with the proportions of inactive people.

Method: The on-going study, aimed at becoming an observatory, is

based on an extended documentary research and literature review,

direct observations (n = 45) of European sites (n = 25), and inter-

views (n = 22).

Results: Even if irregularly, a growing tendency to build or reha-

bilitate public spaces to support PA (for leisure, sport, play, and

commuting) is observable around Europe. In the perspective of AC, a

classification of PA in ‘egoistic’ and ‘altruistic’ could be envisaged to

influence the decision-making processes concerning infrastructural,

social, and educational policies.

Examples of town and mobility planning inspired at AC are

increasing. The majority starts from a sectorial approach; few of them

show an awareness of the potential consequences on PA levels,

exceptional are those based on an interdisciplinary and participatory

model.

Conclusion: The AC planning fosters a clear awareness of the dis-

tinctions between tight and loose spaces the latter allowing a wider

range of PA behaviours.

The key role should be, finally, played by the involvement of citizens

and by a wide sight on participation, which is the very central point

connecting the involved sectors, including bottom-up processes and

informal appropriation of spaces encouraging PA.

ReferencesEdwards P, Tsouros A (2008) A healthy city is an active city: a

physical activity planning guide. Word Health Organisation

Europe, Copenhagen

Faskunger J (2011) Promoting active living in healthy cities in

Europe. J Urban Health 6:142–153

Franck K, Stevens Q (2006) Loose space: possibility and diversity in

urban life. Abingdon, Oxon

12 MS OP

Is there an individual right to sport and motor activity?

M. Cimmino

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: This article examine the social role of sport and physical

activity.It identifies the positive actions and the law developments

that can be adopted to provide access to sport and recreation for

everybody.

Method: According to the International Charter of Physical Educa-

tion and Sport every human being has a fundamental right of access to

physical education and sport, which are essential for the full devel-

opment of his personality. Sport and physical education are for all,

and these are related and inseparable. Also, the Charter UNESCO

recognize the supremacy of the educational value of sport on its

competitive dimension. The right to participate in sport and physical

activity is not mentioned expressly into Italian Constitution; however,

S6 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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this Charter aims to defend health, eliminating inequalities, due to

conditions of weakness or lack of opportunity. In fact it provides for

the fundamental right of human personality (art. 2) and for principle

of equality (art. 3).

Results: Under the TFUE, according to article 165, EU has a com-

petence in the field of sport, and it shall contribute to promotion of

European sporting issues, while taking account of the specific nature

of sport, its structures based on voluntary activity and its social

function. The Union action shall be aimed at developing the European

dimension in sport, by protecting the physical and moral integrity of

sportsmen and sportswomen, especially the youngest people. Is it

possible to make this right of personality really effective? The

enhancement of sports activity is related to protection of fundamental

right, because sport has a social, educational, health, recreational and

leisure time function. Also, the impact of social role of sport, in order

to inclusion is more important than its economic aspect. By practicing

sport and physical activity it is possible to contribute to development

of personality and empowerment of quality life. Sport and physical

activity encourage self-determination of citizen.

Conclusion: Today, a fundamental and human right of personality

doctrine is interpreted on the basis of capabilities theory, according to

the notion which is regulated in private law.

ReferencesBigliazzi Geri L, Breccia U, Natoli U (1987) Diritto civile, Torino (1),

302 ss

Di Nella L (2010) Lo sport. Profili teorici e metodologici, AA. VV.

Manuale di diritto dello sport, Napoli, 13 ss

13 MS OP

The policy of the ‘‘great events’’: a promotional tool

or impoverishment of sports activity?

M. D’Arienzo

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the intensity of Great Event

impact on the more general issue of territorial government, and, in

perspective, on the management capacity and planning of the host

cities, in the interests of promoting grassroots sport, participation in

sports competitions and championships organized in infrastructures

permanently dedicated to sports activities, based on a continuous

planning and scheduling of events that includes the involvement of

local communities.

Method: The investigation has focused on sport initiatives that have

taken place over the last 20 years, linked by specific characteristics

(dimensional scale, economic consequences, characteristics of ser-

vice activities induced structures and actors involved, target

audience and the role of the media) that transform a race in a Great

sporting event. The study of some recent cases has focused on the

positive effects of investments in short and long-term, in the period

prior to the event, during the event, and even then, comparing the

total costs faced by host countries for the reconstruction of stadiums

and infrastructure.

Results: The impact analysis of the outcome of the event cannot

disregard from the same location within careful planning strategy, as

well as several factors suitable to bring out pros and cons of the choices

made that go beyond the organization and management of the event.

Conclusions: The experience gained from over 20 years has shown

that where the sports culture is not rooted neither valorized enough to

be a good and a value in itself, which may influence the transfor-

mation of the territory and the city, these appear to be more focused

on the Great event itself rather than on the social, cultural and

environmental effects and in some cases, particularly slow in devel-

oping the strategy and infrastructure sporting legacy after the event.

ReferencesCavallo Perin R, Gagliardi B (2012) La disciplina giuridica dei grandi

eventi e le olimpiadi invernali ‘‘Torino 2006’’ in Dir. amm., fasc.

1–2, pp 189–215

Chito Guala A (2012) Grandi eventi e territorio: alcuni casi. In:

Ferrari S (ed) (a cura di), Event Marketing. I grandi eventi e gli

eventi speciali come strumenti di marketing, Padova, pp 305–344

D’Arienzo M (2013) Il contributo dell’UE alla pianificazione

portuale: problematiche attuali e prospettive future. In Spasiano

MR (ed) (a cura di) Il sistema portuale italiano tra funzione

pubblica liberalizzazione ed esigenze di sviluppo, Ed. Scientifica,

Napoli, pp 491–503

14 MS OP

Sport as driver for the Italian economy

D. Di Palma, R. Patalano

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: In the last 20 years many studies in Europe have attempted to

estimate the economic importance of sport. We discuss the main

results of this literature. In particular, we take a recent study con-

ducted by SportsEconAustria (SpEA) into consideration and extend

its results to the Italian economic context.

Method: In our discussion we consider the study conducted by

SportsEconAustria (SpEA), the Austrian Institute of Sports Economy,

as a reference point. Within the study, we focus on European Union

and Italian data mainly and in particular on the data that show the

contribution of sport to the creation of gross value-added. We com-

pare these data to the sport’s trade economic multipliers and relate

them to the Italian economic context.

Results: Our discussion of the study conducted by SportsEconAustria

highlights that important sectors of the Italian economy would draw

significant benefits by investing on sports. In particular this holds for:

recreational, cultural and sporting services; hotel and restaurant ser-

vices; the textile industry; the transportation system; the

manufacturing and construction industry.

Conclusion: As a conclusion, we suggest that sport may represent a

key sector for a concrete and sustainable recovery from the ongoing

economic crisis. Based on this, it’s important to support economic

activities at the political level also, in order to promote investments

and amplify their socio-economic benefits.

ReferencesConi (2012) Sport—Italia 2020. Il Libro Bianco dello Sport Italiano

European Commission (2007) White paper on sport

Gratton C et al (2000) Economics of sport and recreation

Istat (2013). http://www.istat.it

SpEA (2012) Study on the Contribution of Sport to Economic Growth

and Employment in the EU

Wladimir A et al (2009) Handbook on the economics of sport

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S7

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15 MS OP

Athlete’s performance within technical rules, ethics

and law

M. Nuzzo

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The most recent experience point out continuous modifications

of the sport technical regulations: in 2014, football, for the ongoing

World Cup, basketball, the World Federation of International Auto-

motive, Rugby, volleyball on the basis of the project from 2013 to

2016. The intensity and diffusion of the innovation process on tech-

nical regulations is usually simply justified as a need to make sports

more accessible and interesting coherently with the legal and sports

system based on the shared belief that sport enhances and represents

the asset of values of a specific society in his time. The ethical cri-

terion, however, is not such as to justify the overall set of regulatory

changes also taking into account the impact of the rules on the

technical actions and therefore in the determination of athletic per-

formance itself. In addition, sports promote technical excellence in a

specific activity, physical characteristic or technical gesture useful to

the social group a s per the so-called ‘‘new sports’’: any regulations

changes, or proposed of amendment, shall meet both criteria.

Method: The research must be carried out through the two distinct

and intrinsically related criteria: the rules contribution to the technical

excellence promotion; the contribution to the comparison between the

contenders and the identification of the winner. Sport regulations shall

meet, on one side, biological and movement sciences, and, on the

other, legal sciences and the related values. Technical regulation

effects not only the mere description of the specific physical exercise,

but the system of values within the legal system.

Results: The study shows significant differences in the treatment of

similar cases by different technical regulations highlighting various

sensitivities and ethical practices among sports in sensible areas as

technical fault, unsportsmanlike conduct, unfair play that express

strong different levels of balance between sports, even against the

system of value set forth by the law.

Conclusion: The proposal is to overcome definitively the idea of a

separation between technical, legal and ethical regulation system in

favor of a unique system. Sport technical rules are part of the global

regulation system that could not be confined in the mere description

of physical action, but part of the system positive action in affirming

and implementing otherwise risking behavioral tendencies contrary to

the aim and value pursued through the sports promotion and diffusion.

16 MS OP

The role of multi-purpose stadiums owned by football

clubs, in reducing the economic and sportive gap

between the Italian and European football sector

V. Raiola, D. Di Palma, M. Tabouras

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: In the past years, the economic and sportive gap between the

Italian and the European football market has critically increased. The

aim of this paper to be highlighted as good part of this phenomenon is

to be attributed to the poor presence of multi-purpose stadiums of

property of the football clubs.

Method: This study was carried out by a comparative analysis of the

money revenues by source of Italian football clubs and the most

significant ones in the Spanish Liga, the English Premier League and

the German Bundesliga having a sports complex of their property, in

order to identify the main economic divergences.

Results: The turnover items that create the gap between European

and Italian football clubs are the ‘‘match-day’’ and commercial rev-

enue, which are related to the lack of multi-purpose stadiums owned

by football clubs. In fact, the only exception in the Italian context is

represented by Juventus FC which in September 8th, 2011 inaugu-

rated its football property stadium, the ‘‘Juventus Stadium’’.

Conclusion: The ownership of a multi-purpose stadium represents for

the football club, a significant instrument for its economic and

financial sustainability, as the majority of their financial revenues are

not ponderable with absolute certainty usually because of their

dependence on performance results. Possessing such complex, allows

the Club to economically exploit the ‘‘client-supporter’’ figure 7 days

on sects, which leads to an increase of the economic and financial

benefits; furthermore that allows being able to lodge sporting inter-

national events. That being said, the amendment dedicated to Italian

sports facilities, inserted in the last Stability Pact should find its

concreteness as soon as possible so that they stimulate private

investments in stadiums and reduce over time the economic and

sportive gap created with the rest of Europe.

ReferencesDeloitte (2014) Football Money League 2014, Sports Business Group

Hoffman et al (2007) Marketing dei servizi, Apogeo

Sorrentini A (2010) Il Business degli Eventi Sportivi, Enzo Albano

Editore

TRAINING AND PERFORMANCE

17 TP O

Determinants of marathon performance:

the Run4Science project

A. La Torre1, C. Tarperi2, M.F. Piacentini3, A. Rainoldi4, F. Schena2

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy2Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy3Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome-Foro Italico, Rome, Italy4Motor Science Research Center, School of Exercise and Sport

Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy

Aim: It is well documented that determinants of endurance perfor-

mance, both for high-level and recreational athletes, are: maximal

aerobic power (V0O2max); running economy (RE); lactate threshold

(LT), fractional race utilization of V0O2max (fV0O2) and they account

for about 20, 30, 20, 30 %, respectively. For years, running marathons

was considered an odd and potentially dangerous activity. Yet, the

increasing popularity of (half) marathon running among persons of all

ages and abilities (73,000 only in Italy in 2013) indicates the ability of

humans to run long distances using aerobic metabolism. However the

vast majority of participants are recreational and middle-aged who

train and compete regularly, not always following structured and

scientifically accurate training programs.

Method: The project Run4Science (R4S) built the opportunity to

enlarge the knowledge both on training and factors involved in the

endurance performance of recreational runners, bringing together

S8 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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different research groups from 4 universities (Verona, Milan, Rome

and Turin). R4S 2014 under the co-ordination of Univ. of Verona,

analyzed in an ecological setting the effects of two training (high

intensity training vs. combined endurance-eccentric strength training)

on several different psychobiological variables before, during and

after a half marathon realized for this project.

Results: 49 recreational runners (28m and 21f aging from 28 to

56 years) were tested PRE and POST 8 weeks of a training protocol

for: (1) anthropometric characteristics, (2) V0O2max and VT1–VT2,

(3) RE, (4) maximal strength (1RM), (5) 2,000 and 10,000 m run

time-trial. Furthermore, immediately PRE and POST the 21 km event

many other parameters were assessed: (1) RE, (4) muscular stiffness,

and fatigue, (3) blood markers, (4) algesimetry, and mood. During the

event speed, running kinematics, pacing strategy and RPE were also

monitored.

Conclusion: All the subjects completed the run and the measurements

allowing us to have a overall picture of the determinants of the per-

formance. Indeed the results on the training methodologies for

endurance events will suggest practical and evidence-based applica-

tion useful for coaches and for recommendation of effective training

programs.

ReferencesCoyle EF (2007) Physiological regulation of marathon performance.

Sports Med 37:306–311

Lieberman DE, Bramble DM (2007) The evolution of marathon

running. Capabilities in humans. Sports Med 37:288–290

18 TP OP

Eccentric, high or low intensity training, the best choice

in RunForScience endurance performance

C. Tarperi1, L. Festa1, A. La Torre2, F. Schena1

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona2Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: The aim of the present study, as a part of RunForScience (R4S)

project, was to compare three different training strategies useful to

improve the limiting physiological factor of endurance performance

in half and full marathon.

Method: Thirty-three amateur runners, moderately trained with a mini-

mum of 4 years of running experience, volunteered participate to the

study. Each subjects before and after 8 weeks of training performed a

maximal cardiopulmonary incremental test to determine V0O2max, VAM,

Aerobic (VT1) and anaerobic (VT2) thresholds by Wasserman method and

they were randomly splitted on three balanced experimental training

groups: high intensity training (HIT; n = 9; 42.2 ± 8.6 yy;

171.2 ± 6.8 cm; 70.9 ± 11.9 kg; V0O2max = 50.3 ± 3.7 ml min-1

kg-1); eccentric strength training (EST; n = 11; 44.5 ± 6 yy;

168.9 ± 9.1 cm; 71.29 ± 9.40 kg; V’O2max = 48.8 ± 5.2 ml min-1

kg-1) and control group (CTR; n = 9; 45.4 ± 8 yy; 171.8 ± 9.6 cm;

66.1 ± 11.74 kg; V0O2max = 50.2 ± 6.8 ml min-1 kg-1). An addi-

tional small number of subjects performed the training EST in preparation

of a marathon trial: (ESTmrt; n = 4; 44.5 ± 3.5 yy; 175.7 ± 3.7;

73.9 ± 13.2 kg; V0O2max = 50.0 ± 2.4 ml min-1 kg-1).

Results: VAM significantly improves (p = 0.001) by +5.95 and

+4.75 % in EST and HIT respectively; in VT1 every groups raises

+6.8 % (P = 0.001) in EST, +5.5 % (P = 0.01) in HIT and +6.2 %

(P = 0.05) in CTR; VT2 increases by 5.3 and 5.7 % (P = 0.001) in

EST and HIT respectively and by 5.9 % (P = 0.05) in CTR; V0O2max

did not change after the trainings.

Conclusion: Although 8 weeks of training were not enough to

increase maximal aerobic power the high intensity stimulation in EST

and HIT improved the maximal aerobic velocity. Similar benefits

were detected in each group in VT1 and VT2 but the different sig-

nificant power seems to indicate the EST training in RunForScience

project as the best choice for enhancement the aerobic threshold, the

parameter most correlated with the performance in middle and long

distances.

ReferencesHelgerud JN, Bach R, Hoff J (2007) Aerobic high-intensity intervals

improve VO2max more than moderate training. Med Sci Sports

Exerc

Kelly CM et al (2008) The effect of strength training on three-

kilometer performance in recreational women endurance runners.

J Strength Cond Res

19 TP OP

Running economy, maximal muscular performance

and muscle damage after long distance running

F. Nardello, C. Capelli, F. Schena

Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: This study aimed to analyze whether prolonged running (semi-

marathon or marathon) elicited an increase of the energy cost of

running and an impairment of the maximal muscular performance in

correlation with muscle damage in unskilled runners.

Method: 11 occasional runners (age 44.27 ± 4.86 yrs) performed a

non-competitive semi-marathon (n = 9) or a marathon (n = 2) (Ve-

rona, 130 m asl, 18–22 �C). Before (m = 77.61 ± 9.87 kg;

h = 179.59 ± 5.45 cm) and after (m = 75.88 ± 9.36 kg) the trial,

oxygen uptake at steady state (V0O2ss) at submaximal speed

(3.17–3.01 m s-1). Thereafter, the energy cost of running (C, J m-

1 kg-1) was derived as calculated from V0O2ss and respiratory-

exchange ratio. Moreover, the vertical displacement of the center of

mass during a maximal squat jump (HSJ, m) was obtained by ana-

lyzing ground reaction forces measured on Kistler platform

(SF = 1,000 Hz). Serum CPK (S-CPK) was measured before,

immediately at the end of the trial and after 6 h of recovery. Data are

reported as mean ± SD. Non parametric two-sample Wilcoxon test

was utilize d to indicate statistical significance (p \ 0.05).

Results: C significantly increased on the average, by 10.4 % after

semi-marathon or marathon (pre 3.66 ± 0.45; post 3.99 ± 0.39).

HSJ significantly decreased (pre 0.21 ± 0.05; post 0.19 ± 0.05).

Finally, S-CPK markedly increased over the trial (pre 190 ± 80;

post 324 ± 123) and the values were still significantly elevated after

6 h or recovery (490 ± 273). The net increase in S-CPK was lin-

early related with the percentage increase of C (r = 0.67). The

impairment of maximal muscle performance was neither related

with the decrease of running economy nor to the increase of S-CPK

concentration.

Conclusion: Semi-marathon or marathon seems to be able to elicit a

significant increase of C in unskilled, occasional runners that is

related to muscle damage as measured from the net increase of

S-CPK. As the drop in HSJ was not related to muscle damage, we may

speculate that this phenomenon might be caused by the impairment of

the neuromuscular coupling or of co-coordination during this partic-

ular maximal effort.

ReferenceSchena F et al (2014) Running economy during a simulated 60-km

trial. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 9(4):604–609

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S9

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20 TP OP

Differences in mood and pacing during an official

and a simulated half marathon competition

M. F. Piacentini1,2, L. Molinari1, F. Annis1 A. La Torre3, L. Festa4, C. Tarperi4, K. Skroce4, F. Schena4

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Italy2Department of Human Physiology and Sportsmedicine, Vrije

Universiteit Brussel, Belgium3Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Universita degli

Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy4Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: Important factors in the regulation of pacing are the sensation of

fatigue experienced at a certain point of the race, the perceived

exertion (RPE) expected at that time point integrated with the time

remaining to complete the task. Optimal pacing strategies have been

analyzed for elite athletes while less is known for master athletes that

represent the majority of participants in these events. Therefore, the

aim of the study was to monitor pacing adopted by master runners

during a simulated and an official half marathon.

Method: 26 master endurance runners signed a written informed

consent, filled in a training history questionnaire and complete a

profile of mood state (POMS) questionnaire before and after the race.

Athletes were monitored during an official (Roma Ostia) and a sim-

ulated (R4S) half marathon and were instructed to rate their RPE

every 5 or 7 km. Pacing is presented as percent difference compared

to average running speed. The Hazard Score (HS) was calculated as

the product of the momentary RPE and the remaining fraction of the

event. Differences in speed, HS or POMS between the 2 different

competitions and over time was calculated by a 2 way ANOVA

(p \ 0.05).

Results: Pacing adopted during an official competition was even,

while during R4S athletes adopted a positive pacing, with a very fast

start and a significant decrease at km 15 and end. HS was higher

during the R4S at km 14 compared to km 15 of the official compe-

tition and could not predict changes in pace. POMS showed in both

situations a significant increase in fatigue and a decrease in tension

comparing PRE and POST.

Conclusion: Despite the POMS showed similar changes in both

competitions, pacing strategies adopted and HS were different. The

HS has been tested previously only in laboratory conditions, therefore

testing fatigue and pacing strategies seem to give different results in

laboratory, simulated or real competition settings, probably depending

also on different motivational approaches to the event.

Referencesde Koning JJ et al (2011) Regulation of pacing strategy during athletic

competition. PLoSONE 6(1):e15863

Roelands B et al (2013) Neurophysiological determinants of theoret-

ical concepts and mechanisms involved in pacing. Sports Med

43(5):301–311

21 TP OP

Postural effects of the core-training program in football

players

A. Sirressi, A. Giunto, G. Spinelli, S. Tafuri, F. Fischetti

Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense

Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of a training

program focused on ‘‘core training’’ of some stabilometric parameters

in football players. Core training has a dual action: stabilizing and

driving strength. The center stabilization optimizes the generation of

power and minimizes muscles’ and joints’ overload in all the dailies

and sports activities, improving performance and optimizes the pre-

vention of injuries.

Method: The sample is composed of 32 male soccer players (mean

22.6 ± 0.91 years) of which 16 belong to the treatment group and 16

in the control group. The experimental group performed a program of

‘‘core training’’ a total duration of 12 weeks (2 times week/90 time).

Four quantitative variables-Area, Length, Variance speed, average

speed are evaluated. For the comparison of the averages of the two

groups at the same time measuring was used the Student t test for

unpaired samples. For the comparison of the average values of the

two groups at different times was analyzed with repeated measures

ANOVA (p \ 0.05).

Results: In the comparison test retest the model of repeated measures

ANOVA showed about the length that there are differences related to

the group (F = 6.89, p = 0.0191) and time (F = 11.97, t = 0.0035).

Regarding the variation of speed the ANOVA showed significant

differences related to the group (F = 05.16, p = 0.038) while it did

not seem to affect the time trend (F = 3.9, p = 0.067). Regarding the

area and speed there were no observed differences related to time for

any of the two groups.

Conclusion: After the analyzes carried out, we can say that the ‘‘core

training program’’ of the young footballer induces significant

improvements in terms of balance and stability. It is an optimal

approach to improve postural stabilometric balance and probably for

the prevention of accidents and for the improvement of the

performance.

ReferencesGatteschi L (2010) L’allenamento fisico nel calcio. Concetti e principi

metodologici. Edizioni Correre (Febbraio, 2010). Cap. 13: 282

Kibler WB, Press J, Sciascia A (2006) The role of core stability in

athletic function. Sports Med 36(3):189–198

S10 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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Hit ball game profile: tactical, heart rate, session-RPE,

strength, and countermovement jump aspects of elite

Italian players

C. Lupo1, D. Carbone2, F. Gennaro2

1Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

SUISM Centro Servizi, University of Turin, Turin, Italy2SUISM Centro Servizi, University of Turin, Turin, Italy

Aim: Hit ball game is played by two teams of 5 players for

3 9 15 min quarters on 20 9 10 m pitch delimited by two goals, and

‘‘defensive’’, ‘‘offensive’’, and ‘‘free’’ zones. Although Hit ball is

played in same countries, no study has been promoted on it. Thus, this

study aimed to provide tactical, heart rate (HR), session rate of per-

ceived exertion (session-RPE), maximum isometric grip force (GF),

and countermovement jump (CJ) aspects of the elite Italian Hit ball

players.

Method: 4 games were video recorded to evaluate the occurrence of:

ball possessions, shots (goal, out, saved, blocked), hits from offensive

and defensive zones. Eighty-six male Serie A1–A2 players

(29.3 ± 5.0 years; height 1.81 ± 0.06 m; weight 78 ± 14 kg) partici-

pated to the study. The 25 players’ (6 games, 9 teams) HR responses

(%HRpick) were recorded. The internal load was calculated by means of

session-RPE (CR-10 scale) and summated heart rate zone method.

GF and CJ were measured on 36 (86 only before and after game) and

32 players, respectively, before game (T1), at the 1st–2nd (T2) and

2nd–3rd (T3) quarter intervals, and after game (T4). ANOVA for

repeated measures was used to test effects between phases for HR,

GF, and CJ (p B 0.05).

Results: A team performed 297 ± 10 ball possessions. Shots (goal

32 ± 5, out 134 ± 12, saved 48 ± 2, blocked 61 ± 18) from

offensive and defensive zones were 178 ± 3 and 97 ± 7, respec-

tively. No effect between quarters emerged for HR

(90–100 %HRpick = 74 ± 15 %). Session-RPE (RPE = 5 ± 2) and

HR based method showed a satisfactory (r = 0.71, p \ 0.0001) cor-

relation. Lower shooting upper-limb GF values emerged at T2

(439 ± 97 N, p = 0.023), T3 (429 ± 91 N, p = 0.003), and T4

(433 ± 102 N, p = 0.018) with respect to those of T1 (463 ± 98 N);

no effect for the other upper-limb (T1: 452 ± 99 N; T4:

442 ± 95 N). Higher CJ values were reported at T4 (36.2 ± 6.3 cm)

than T1 (33.1 ± 4.8 cm; p = 0.001); intermeddle results emerged at

T2 (35.1 ± 6.2 cm) and T3 (34.4 ± 5.6 cm).

Conclusion: Results show that Hit ball games impose a high HR

intensity and internal load, which can be reliably monitored by ses-

sion-RPE method. The declining shooting upper-limb GF could be

related to the concussions caused by shootings, whereas the CJ

improvement at T4 suggests a neuromuscular activation of the lower

limbs elicited by the Hit ball game.

ReferencesEdwards (1993) Fleet Feet Press

Foster et al (1996) Wisconsin Med J 95:370–374

Hit Dogs (2014) Regole. http://www.hit-dogs.com/lhit-ball/regol/

23 TP OP

Gradient repeated sprint ability in young soccer players

J. Padulo1,2,3, G. M. Migliaccio3, G. Attene3, K. Chamari4,

D. P. Wong5, L. P. Ardigo6

1University e-Campus, Novedrate, Italy2Tunisian Research Laboratory ‘‘Sports Performance Optimization’’,

National Center of Medicine and Science in Sport, Tunis, Tunisia3Italian Olympic Committee, Sardinia Regional Committee, Cagliari,

Italy4Research and Education Centre Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic

and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar5Human Performance Laboratory, Technological and Higher

Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China6School of Exercise and Sport Science, Department of Neurological

and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: This study aimed to describe a gradient Repeated Sprint Ability

test (GRSA)1 in comparison to standard level one (LRSA) and by

investigating variables featuring performance, metabolic demand and

muscular behavior.

Method: Eighteen young (16 ± 0 years) male soccer players per-

formed two LRSA2—for reliability evaluation—and one ±5 %

GRSA (all tests 20 + 20 m w/180� COD and 20 recoveries). In

addition to specific RSA’s variables, post-RSA RPE, blood lactate

concentration (BLa) and counter-movement jump height (CMJh)—as

a proxy for muscular behavior—were assessed.

Results: LRSA measure resulted highly reliable (ICC = 0.96/0.99).

GRSA worsened only first sprints’ performance but not overall RSA

performance (*45, p = 0.911). Thus, LRSA resulted more variable-

speed over cycles than GRSA. LRSA resulted to be more deterio-

rating in terms of fatigue index (+57 %, p \ 0.005), BLa (+30 %,

p \ 0.005), RPE (+12 %, p \ 0.01) and CMJh worsening (-3 %,

p \ 0.005).

Conclusion: We hypothesize that players achieved in the two dif-

ferent tests the same overall performance by paying an extra—more

anaerobic—metabolic price to cope with an extra mechanical kinetic

work (�Dspeed) with consequent braking task at level. Differently,

they coped the extra—more aerobic—metabolic demand due to the

mechanical potential work (�gradient) by containing the speed

changes on gradient. During LRSA, a performance similar to that

achieved during GRSA is effectively attained at the price of both an

overall extra metabolic demand and a worsened muscular behavior.

GRSA protocols could be used to increase athletes’ training volume

without stressing excessively their current metabolic-anaerobic and

muscular capacities.

ReferencesParadisis GP et al (2009) Combined uphill and downhill sprint

running training is more efficacious than horizontal. Int J Sports

Physiol Perform 4:229–243

Impellizzeri FM et al (2008) Validity of a repeated-sprint test for

football. Int J Sports Med 29:899–905

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S11

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24 TP OP

Match running activity in very young soccer players

G. Bellistri1,2, L. Sodero1, B. Crociani1, M. Ramaglia1, M.

Marzorati1, S.Porcelli1

1Institute of Bioimaging and Molecular Physiology, CNR, Segrate

(MI), Italy2Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano,

Milan, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to quantify match play intensity

distribution in 8–10 years soccer players and to analyze the results in

relation to age and physical capacity.

Method: Physical capacity of 12 under-10 (U10) and 15 under-8

(U8) male players was assessed by counter movement jump (CMJ),

20 m shuttle run (20 m-SR) and 10, 20 and 30 m (10, 20 and 30 m)

sprint tests. Shuttle dribble test (SHD) and slalom dribble test (SLD)

were also performed to evaluate technical ability. Time motion

analyses by global positioning system (GPS 10 Hz, K-Sport) were

performed during 30 (200 observations) national matches (3 times,

15 min each). Distance covered was categorized into 6 intensity

zone (standing, walking, jogging, running, high-speed running,

sprinting) according to transition from walking to running, ratio of

the commonly used thresholds for senior and ‘‘flying’’ 10 m sprint

time.

Results: U10 vs. U8 showed a better shuttle-running performance

(1,215 ± 77 vs. 872 ± 78 m), a lower sprint time on 20 m

(4.15 ± 0.05 vs. 4.38 ± 0.07 s) and 30 m (5.72 ± 0.06 vs.

6.31 ± 0.08 s) and a better technical ability (10.7 ± 0.2 vs.

11.8 ± 0.2 and 22.3 ± 0.3 vs. 29.4 ± 0.7 s, in SLD and SHD,

respectively). No differences were observed in CMJ (24.4 ± 0.8 vs.

23.3 ± 0.9 cm) and 10 m (2.45 ± 0.02 vs. 2.52 ± 0.04 s). Match

running activity showed a higher total and high-intensity distance

covered by U10 (3,386 ± 120 and 1,369 ± 95 m, respectively) vs.

U8 (2,354 ± 59 and 887 ± 58 m, respectively). Considering only the

players (n = 16) that performed the entire match, distance covered at

high-intensity in the third time was not significantly different from

first and second time both for U10 and U8. Finally, a linear rela-

tionship (r2 = 0.62, p \ 0.01) was observed between high-intensity

distance covered and 20 m-SR performance in U10 and U8.

Conclusions: This is the first study characterizing the running match

activity of very young soccer players. If confirmed in a larger pop-

ulation, these data could be used by coaches and support staff as

starting point in the design of effective training programs.

ReferencesBradley et al (2009) High-intensity running in English FA Premier

League soccer matches. J Sports Sci 27:159–168

Harley et al (2010) Motion analysis of match-play in elite U12 to U16

age-group soccer players. J Sports Sci 28:1391–1397

Saibene, Minetti (2003) Biomechanical and physiological aspects

of legged locomotion in humans. Eur J Appl Physiol

88:297–316

25 TP P

Gait cycle analysis in female football player: an acute

study

M. Gollin1, F. Abate Daga2, L. Beratto3, S. Fornea2, M. Alessandria3,

A. Plescia2

1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences; Motor Science

Research Center, University School of Motor and Sport Sciences,

University of Turin, Italy2University School of Motor and Sport Sciences Graduate, University

of Turin, Italy3PhDc in Experimental Medicine and Therapy, University of Turin,

Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the differences and corre-

lations between the elongation of the hamstring muscles and the stride

length in female football players.

Method: Thirteen football players (age 19 ± 2 years, weight

57 ± 6 kg, height 163 ± 7 cm and 7 ± 2 training experience years)

belonging to a team which plays in the Serie B national championship

(second national division) participated in this study. For each par-

ticipant, the flexibility of both lower limbs in a supine position was

measured through the use of a digital protractor (Iphone 4s, USA).

The G-Walk was used for gait analysis (m), and was positioned with a

lower back belt between L5 and S2 (BTS SpA, Garbagnate Milanese,

Italy), analyzing gait over a linear distance of 10 m.

Results: Flexibility right vs. left leg (Wilcoxon test; ns); step length

right vs. left leg (Wilcoxon test, ns); flexibility step length right leg

vs. right leg (Spearman, ns); right leg flexibility vs. step length left leg

(Spearman, ns).

Conclusion: The analyzed team showed no imbalance or mechanical

function abnormalities, resulting in a reduced risk of injury.

26 TP P

Dietary behaviour of professional volleyball players

A. Ammendolia1,2, T. Iona, R. Scarfone

1Department of Surgical and Medicine Sciences, University

of Catanzaro ‘‘Magna Graecia’’, Catanzaro, Italy2National President of the Italian Association of the Medical staff

Volleyball (AMIV)

Aim: In spite of all the advances in sport nutrition and the importance

of an adequate food intake in order to improve sport performance,

both recreational and professional athletes forget frequently to include

planning an optimum diet and fluid intake in their global strategy for

performance. The aim of this study was to assess dietary behaviours

of a group of professional volleyball players.

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Method: 45 male professional players of a volleyball team

(28.3–4.9 years), taken part in the first division (A1) Italian Cham-

pionship, were enrolled. After the anthropometric measurements

(weight 93.1–11.6; height 198–7.0), the participants where requested

to complete a food frequency questionnaire, which included different

foods and drinks, arranged by food type and meal pattern and based

on the number of times that items were consumed per day.

Results: Analysis of the results obtained showed that 56 % of the

players have 3–4 meals a day, 36 % 5 and 8 % only 2 meals. 71 % of

respondents take lunch and dinner at home, cooking for themselves,

39 % at the restaurant or fast food. 77 % of athletes take a breakfast

with milk, biscuits, yogurt and fresh fruit and 92 % take a snack, such

as fruit or yogurt (only 8 % with sweets). 23 % doesn’t appreciate

some vegetables and cheese. Nutrients for athletes were used by 34 %

and vitamin supplementation by 66 % of respondents. They drink

more than 2.5 liters of fluids per day (water and isotonic drinks) and

84 % drink alcohol (beer, wine) during lunch or dinner.

Conclusion: Dietary behaviours of surveyed players are incorrect.

The most common mistakes made by them include a smaller number

of meals during the day than recommended, taking up training on

empty stomach and insufficient frequency of consumption of dairy

products, such as vegetables and fruit. We think it’s necessary a

strong cooperation between technical and medical staff to apply a

regular strategies in the athlete’s dietary from the beginning of the

agonistic season.

ReferenceSzczepanska E et al (2012) Dietary behaviours of volleyball and

basketball players. Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig 63(4):483–489

27 TP P

The effects of strengthening exercises on the hip

abduction musculature in professional female

basketball players

R. Rossi, R. Benis, A. La Torre

Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: Rapid acceleration and landing after the jump, typical of bas-

ketball game, are identified as mechanisms of acute injury to the knee.

The role of muscle strength of the hip according to the authors has a

relationship with the injuries prevention. The aim of this study is

evaluate the influence of exercise program on hip abduction strength

in female basketball players.

Method: Forty-one professional female basketball players (24.6 ± 3

y-o; 70.9 ± 7.4 kg; 178.6 ± 6.8 cm; 22.3 ± 1.7 kg/m2) were

involved in a 6-weeks protocol consisting of 3 session/week with 4

exercises in according with Selkowitz et al. All subjects were divided

in two groups: 22 in the ‘‘experimental group’’ and 19 in a ‘‘control

group’’ that performed the normal training routine of physical and

technical basketball drills. Subjects were tested at baseline (BL) and

at week 6 (W6). Hip abduction muscles strength is measured with a

handheld dynamometer (Lafayette Inst.) The test were in sidelying

position and selected based on their similarity to traditional manual

muscle testing procedures in according to Kendall et al.

Results: All participants completed the 6 weeks program, a paired

t test and a unpaired t test were used respectively to assess pre-post

differences within groups and between groups. Results were expres-

sed as mean ± SD. Significant differences were found at p \ 0.05.

The experimental group at W6 showed significant improvements in

hip abduction strength, in right (ES0,6) and left (ES0,4) limbs, cal-

culate in term of torque (strength = (MMT reading in

Netwons) 9 distance/bodyweight in kilograms). The control group

did not show any significant difference at W6 compared to BL.

Significant difference between groups with unpaired t test.

Conclusion: The study shows how, by a simple and short program of

exercising to strengthen the hip muscles that control how hip moves

has a significant influence on the hip abduction strength in profes-

sional female basketball players.

ReferencesDevita et al (1992) Am Coll Sport Med 24(1)

Kendall et al (1995) Testing of manual examination. W.B. Saunders,

Philadelphia

Niemuth et al (2005) Clin J Sport Med 15(1):14–21

Selkowitz et al (2013) J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 4116

28 TP P

Influences of basketball practice in maximal ankle

dorsiflexion range of motion

R. Benis, A. La Torre

Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: The ankle mobility of the ankle joint is important in the ath-

lete’s lower kinematics and muscle activation. In fact restrict ankle

dorsiflexion during dynamic tasks have been reported in individuals

with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and are theorized to play a role in its

development. The aim of this study is to monitor the influence of

basketball practice in the maximal ankle dorsiflexion range of motion

in female basketball players during the season.

Method: Thirty-eight professional female basketball players of the

Italian league (25.6 ± 3 y-o; 73.9 ± 7.7 kg; 181.6 ± 6.8 cm;

22.1 ± 2.1 kg/m2) were monitored in the pre-season 2013 and 2014.

Participants performed the weight-bearing lunge test (WBLT) to

assess their maximal ankle dorsiflexion range of motion ROM, based

on the Vicenzino et al. (2006) study. Each subject performed the

following protocol: 50 jogging and two trials test for side. All mea-

sures were obtained three times per side, the score result. All

participants completed the competitive season without severe injuries

in lowers limbs. Differences over time were assessed with paired t test

and ES. Results were expressed as mean ± SD. Significant differ-

ences were found p \ 0.05.

Results: We have found by the statistical analysis with paired t test

there isn’t significant difference in dorsiflexion range of motion ROM

between may 2013 versus may 2014, but with further analysis the date

produced following numbers: in right leg (ES 0.5) and left leg (ES

0.6). The effect size show we reduced of Rom in ankle dorsiflexion in

female athletes after the basketball season.

Conclusion: In this research we note that basketball practice in

season has a negative influence in dorsiflexion ROM ankle mobility in

female athletes. Due to the important of lower limbs efficiency in

basketball sport is useful for players and staff monitoring the joints

for prevention injuries and performance.

ReferencesFong CM et al (2011) Ankle-dorsiflexion range of motion and landing

biomechanics. J Athl Train 46(1):5–10

Macrum E et al (2012) Effect of limiting ankle-dorsiflexion range of

motion on lower extremity kinematics and muscle-activation

patterns during a squat. J Sport Rehabil 21(2):144–150

Vicenzino B et al (2006) Initial changes in posterior talar glide and

dorsiflexion of the ankle after mobilization with movement in

individuals with recurrent ankle sprain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther

36(7):464–471

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Effects of two stretching techniques on vertical jump

performance of young basketball players

G. M. Bertolotti1,2, M. Schmid1,2

1Department of Industrial and Information Engineering, University

of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2CRIASM, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy

Aim: Leg explosive force, evaluated by tests based on vertical jumps,

is crucial in many sports. Although stretching exercises are supposed

to enhance it, recent studies have found decreases of athletic task

performances preceded by stretching exercises. We investigated if

two different types of stretching affect the vertical jump performance

of ten basketball players.

Method: Ten female basketball players (13.2 ± 0.4 years) performed

in 3 different days: (1) 5 min of light jogging; (2) a randomized

sequence of 8 squat jumps (SJ) and 8 counter movement jumps

(CMJ); (3) test condition: rest in day 1 (control, CC), active stretching

(AS) in day 2, dynamic stretching (DS) in day 3; (4) 8 SJ and 8 CMJ.

AS consisted of 3 series of 15 s static bilateral stretching exercises for

the hamstrings, quadriceps, and triceps surae muscles. In DS the

subjects bobbed for 30 s each muscle. The height (hf) and the average

power (Pavg) of the jumps were measured by a QuattroJump force

platform (Kistler, Switzerland). A 3-way ANOVA test (jump type,

test condition, pre-post condition) was performed. When appropriate a

Bonferroni post hoc test was run.

Results: No differences of hf were found in types of jump and in test

condition. The pre- and post-condition hf values were different

(p = 0.008). The interaction between test condition and pre- and post-

condition was different (p = 0.03). No differences were found between

hf values of pre- and post-condition of CC. For both AS and DS hf value

of the pre- was higher than that of the post- condition (p = 0.01 and

p = 0.003). Pavg of SJ was lower than that of CMJ (p\ 0.005). Pavg of

pre- was different than that of the post-condition (p\ 0.0005). The

interaction between test condition and pre- and post- condition was

different (p = 0.04). No differences were found between Pavg values of

pre- and post-condition of CC. For both AS and DS Pavg value of pre-

was higher than that of post-condition (p = 0.02 and p = 0.002).

Conclusions: The stretching techniques considered have detrimental

effects on vertical jump performance. This could be due to changes in

musculotendinous stiffness occurred after the stretching tasks.

ReferencesBehm DG, Chaouachi A (2011) A review of the acute effects of static

and dynamic stretching on performance. Eur J Appl Physiol

111(11):2633–2651

Carvalho FL et al (2012) Acute effects of a warm-up including active,

passive, and dynamic stretching on vertical jump performance.

J Strength Cond Res 26(9):2447–2452

30 TP P

Analysis on the progression of men world marathon

record

M. Bonato1, L. Papini1, A. La Torre1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Italy

Aim: The first marathon run took place at Olympic Games in 1896 in

Athens, but the first standardised measure of 42.195 m date back at

the Olympic Games in 1908 in London. The world record passed from

2:55:18 of Johnny Hayes to the recently of Wilson Kiprotic of

2:03:23. Aim of this study was to analyse how the world record had

improved through the years.

Method: The 32 world records were evaluated for analyse their

progression during the years. Then, the percentage distribution of the

times of the top 100 athletes of the world rank was made on the basis

of their country of origin. Finally, the 200 athletes in the word rank

from 2011 to 2013 were evaluated for verifying if they fit in the

classification proposed by Billat et al. (2001) and La Torre et al.

(2011).

Result: The world marathon record improved of 29.7 % from 1908 to

2013, that divided into decades are: 1950–1960, 7.12 %; 1960–1970,

4.96 %; 1970–1980, 0 %; 1980–1990, 1.14 %; 1990–1900, 0.89 %;

2000–2013: 1.84 %. In particular 92 % performances comes from

Africa, of which 61 % from Kenya. The remaining 8 % is divided in:

3 % Europe; 2 % North America; 2 % South America; 1 % Oceania.

Comparing the performances of the 200 athletes in the world rank we

found that for Billat et al. (2001), in 2011 90 % are top-class mara-

thon runners (02:06:34–02:11:59) and 10 % with a time lower of

02:06:34; in 2012 83 % are top-class marathon runners and 17 % with

a time lower of 02:06:34; in 2013 90 % are top-class marathon run-

ners and 10 % with a time lower of 02:06:34. On the other hand, for

La Torre et al. (2011) in 2011, 2 % are considered elite-class mara-

thon runners (\02:05:10), 37.5 % as top-class marathon runners

(02:05:11–02:08:50), 36 % as high-class marathon runners

(02:08:51–02:10:10) and 24.5 % as good-class marathon runners

(02:10:11–02:11:10). In 2012 performances are considered 6.5 %

elite-class marathon runners, 51 % top-class marathon runners, 35 %

high-class marathon runners and 7.5 % good-class marathon runners.

In 2013 4.5 % are elite-class marathon runners, 38.5 % top-class

marathon runners, 37.5 % high-class marathon runners and 19.5 %

good-class marathon runners.

Conclusion: These results show a constant improvement of the men

marathon world record. Thus, to be an elite athlete they have to

perform under 2:05:10, but the trend in the coming years could reach

the limit of 2 h.

ReferencesBillat et al (2001) Med Sci Sports Exerc 33(12):2089–2097

La Torre et al (2011) J Strength Cond Res 25(12):3242–3247

31 TP P

Dropout rate of the finalists of the IAAF world Junior

Championship: analysis of the middle-long distance

events

M. Bonato1, C. Pagani1, M.F Piacentini2, A. La Torre1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy2Department of Movement, Human and Health Science, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: Previous studies showed that success at a young age for

throwers is not a springboard for later success. Aim of this study was

to analyze the career (based on the IAAF rankings) and/or dropout

rate (intended as absence from the IAAF rankings by December 2013)

of the 8 finalists in the middle-long distance events of 5 IAAF World

Junior Championships (WJC).

Methods: The results of the 8 male and the 8 female finalists of the

last 5 editions of the WJC from the 2002 edition were gathered. In

particular we focused on the female 3,000 m, male and female

5,000 m and male 10,000 m events and analysed how many athletes

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were missing from the IAAF ranking in 2013. For those athletes that

did not dropout we monitored their progression in performance

comparing their WJC and their 2013 performance. Data were

retrieved from website http://www.iaaf.org. Descriptive statistic was

used for dropout data.

Results: For the WJC of Kingston (2002) (JAM) the dropout rate was

50 % divided in 50 % for female 3,000 m, 62.5 % for male 5,000 m,

37.5 % for female 5,000 m and 50 % for male 10,000 m. For the

WJC of Grosseto (2004) (ITA) the dropout rate was 46.9 % divided in

50 % for female 3,000 m, 37 % for male 5,000 m, 62.5 % for female

5,000 m and 37 % for male 10,000 m. For the WJC of Beijing 2006

(CHN) the dropout rate was 37.5 % divided in 50 % for female

3,000 m, 25 % for male 5,000 m, 37.5 % for female 5,000 m and

37.5 % for male 10,000 m. For the WJC of Bydgoszcz (2008) (POL)

the dropout rate was 37.5 % divided in 62.5 % for female 3,000 m,

12.5 % for male 5,000 m, 37.5 % for female 5,000 m and 37.5 % for

male 10,000 m. For the WJC of Moncton 2010 (CAN) the dropout

rate was 18.8 % divided in 25 % for female 3,000 m, 0 % for male

5,000 m, 25 % for female 5,000 m and 25 % for male 10,000 m.

Conclusion: Confirming previous studies, the present data show a

higher dropout rate in female respect to male athletes. In particular,

although 11 out 64 of the finalists (6 female and 4 male) won a medal

at the Olympic Games or at the World Championships, it is still not

clear if participation at the WJC is a prerequisite to success at a senior

level, given the elevated dropout rate observed in the present study.

ReferencePiacentini et al (2014) J Sports Med Phys Fitness 54:1–2

32 TP P

Bioethics and Sport 2.0 in the beginning was (only)

doping

F. B. Castaldo

Department of Education Institutions and Local Systems, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’

Aim: The term bioethics is a term coined by Van Potter, who in 1970

thought of a discipline, capable of contributing to a better quality of

human life and the cosmos. At first he intended bioethics as a wisdom

capable of creating a bridge between bios and ethos, and between bio-

experimental science and ethical-anthropological sciences. Similarly,

the modern sport is presented as a polysemic phenomenon, multi-

disciplinary, pluris value. From the beginning, the sport is included in

the discussion of bioethical problems with doping (Sgreccia 1988).

Today, the ethical problems of the sport are not only ascribable to

doping; the medicalization of society, techniques for enhancement,

violence, fraud, corruption, even the acceptance of anthropological

transhumanist theories. Our purpose is to shed light on these issues so

that there is a discernment, a fine-tuning also in educational programs,

for the protection of all the sport from a scientist adrift, which would

lead to an imbalance of values.

Method: Reading, textual and documentary analysis, evaluation of

critical examples.

Results: Van der Zwaag (1929–2011) in ancient times, asked: how

many athletic directors have read works of sport philosophy, or

humanities? Along with Zeigler (NASSM), are recognized as pio-

neers of educational Sport Management. Comes the need to leave the

confines of a scientific field, in order to deal with other than itself.

Conclusion: The quantitative sciences attracts more funds than

qualitative ones; the philosopher Nussbaum, has relaunched the idea

that the training of students will have to be more disinterested than

utilitarian, offering arguments against the choice of anti-classical,

analyzing and comparing different educational systems Schools,

Universities, must assign a prominent place in the program of study to

the humanistic, literary and artistic subjects, cultivating a participa-

tion that can activate and improve the ability to see the world through

the eyes of another person (Nussbaum 2010). In order to form citizens

who play their role in society, science and technology alone are not

enough, we need disciplines that are able to cultivate critical thinking,

respect for diversity, solidarity, the judgment, the freedom of

expression. According to Camelli, the humanities faculties prepare for

that life-long learning, which will characterize tomorrow’s jobs.

ReferencesBostrom N (2005) A history of transhumanist thought. J Evol Technol

14:1

Castaldo FB (2010) Sport management: un indirizzo etico-filosofico.

Ed. Albano Napoli, preface http://ricerca.repubblica.it/repubblica/

archivio/repubblica/2013/06/27/la-fine-delle-lettere.html

Nussbaum M (2011) Non per profitto, perche le democrazie hanno

bisogno della cultura umanistica, Il Mulino, Bo

Potter VR (1970) Bioethics. The science of survival. Perspect Biol

Med 14:1

Potter VR (1971) Bioethics. Bridge to the future. Englewood Cliffs,

New Jersey

Sgreccia E (1996) Manuale di Bioetica, II vol. Bioetica e sport, Vita e

Pensiero, Milano

Van der Zwaag HJ (1985) Toward a philosophy of sport, fort worth.

University of Texas Press, Zeigler

Van der Zwaag HJ (1968) Physical education: progressivism or

essentialism? Stipes Publ. Co., Champaign

33 TP P

Relationship between heart rate variability

and repeated sprint exercise in young soccer players

A. Cataldo1,2, D. Cerasola1, V. Vallone2, D. Zangla1, R. Lo Presti1,

G. Russo1, M. Traina1

1Sport and Exercise Sciences DISMOT Research Unit, University

of Palermo, Italy2Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio, Lega Nazionale Dilettanti,

Sicilian Regional Committee, Italy

Aim: The sport of soccer is characterized by neuromuscular perfor-

mance resulting in short bursts interspersed by brief recovery periods

over an extended period of time. Several studies suggest that the

cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS) assessed by heart rate

variability (HRV) may provide useful information regarding the

functional adaptations to training stimulus. Although HRV has often

been associated with aerobic power and cardiovascular fitness, the

influence of sympathovagal balance on neuromuscular performance in

young athletes is not well assessed.

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the autonomic

system on the performance of repeated sprints, involving predomi-

nantly muscular power and anaerobic metabolism, in young soccer

players.

Method: Twelve young soccer players, selected for the Sicilian

Regional Representative of the Italian Football Federation, mean age

15 years, were recruited. Resting HRV was measured and indices of

power spectral analysis (ratio LF/HF) were calculated to evaluate the

sympathovagal balance. To assess the state of physical fitness of

subjects, VO2 max was determined by maximal graded treadmill test.

Finally, the athletes performed 10 maximal all-out 6-s cycling sprints

(RS), interspersed with 30-s of passive recovery, to measure the peak

power (PP) represented by the highest value recorded during a single

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sprint, and the average of the values of maximum power (AP)

recorded during all sprints.

Results: On the basis of their VO2max (56.22 ± 3.93 ml/kg/min), all

subjects showed good levels of physical fitness. HRV index (LF/

HF = 1.31 ± 0.74) showed an inverse correlation with PP (14.05 ±

0.89 W/Kg; r = -0.709, P = 0.01), and with AP (12.82 ± 0.88 W/kg;

r = -0.606, P = 0.04).

Conclusion: Our study shows that a low ratio LF/HF, which reflects a

parasympathetic predominance in the ANS balance, is associated with

a better anaerobic contribution to performance resulting in higher

values of PP and AP during brief repeated maximal cycling sprints.

The assessment of resting HRV before exercise may be useful for

performance monitoring of young soccer players.

ReferencesBricout VA et al (2010) Analyses of heart rate variability in young

soccer players: the effects of sport activity. Auton Neurosci

154:112–116

Buchheit M, Gindre C (2006) Cardiac parasympathetic regulation:

respective associations with cardiorespiratory fitness and training

load. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 291:451–458

34 TP P

Cardiovascular stress in tennis players during a 2 min

groundstroke rally

F. Cereda, F. Casolo, P. Vago

Department of Pedagogy, University ‘‘Cattolica del Sacro Cuore’’

of Milan, Italy

Aim: The tennis players have a different physiological profile

according to their defensive (D) or offensive (O) type play. D players

hit the balls from the baseline and the mean time of each rally was

reported to be 8.2 ± 5.1 s (±SD), i.e. significantly longer than that of

O players. We designed a simple and low cost specific test to evaluate

the cardiovascular stress in ‘‘false’’ rallies in which couples of players

of similar technical level were asked to hit shots as hard as possible

parallel to the side lines for 2 min.

Method: Players play the balls to the center of the court. HR was

recorded over 5-s intervals with the aid of a Polar Sport Tester. In

case of wrong shots a new ball was immediately put on the court. The

peak ball velocity of 5 or more shots was measured by means of a

radar Stalker ATS SystemTM. A 5 min pause of seated rest was

interposed between rallies. The entire experimental session lasted

about 50 min. Only forehand (FH) or backhand (BH) strokes were

carried out in each of the six rallies. After a week from field mea-

surements the relationship between HR and mechanical power were

measured during an incremental walk on treadmill with increasing

speed and constant slope (12 %). 4 players of each gender were

studied and all of them took part to official amateur tournaments of

low or medium level.

Results: The mean HR max of males and females were 189.3 ± 8.1

and 193.0 ± 4.3 b/min. No differences in HR kinetics were noted in

FH and BH and data were pooled. HR increased in exponential way,

the half times being 28.8 ± 10.3 and 31.1 ± 6.3 s, for males and

females respectively. The corresponding half times during recovery

were 88.5 ± 26.8 and 99.8 ± 32.2 s. The HR kinetics at onset and

offset were significantly different (p \ 0.001) in both genders. The

mean HRs in the last 20 s of each rally were 163.5 ± 14.4 and

173.8 ± 3.1 b/min in males and females (p = 0.07). At the same HRs

the mechanical powers during uphill walking were 195.3 ± 10.0 and

112.7 ± 16.1 W (p \ 0.001). The strokes per 2 min were 82.8 ± 2.6

and 66.2 ± 3.6 (p \ 0.001) and the corresponding peak ball speeds

106.7 ± 5.3 and 84.3 ± 5.5 km/h. In one subject the ball speed was

significantly higher during FH and in two subjects during BH (two

hands BH).

Conclusion: In summary the cardiovascular stress was similar in both

sexes in a 2 min tennis drill while the performance was significantly

different.

ReferenceSmekal G et al (2001) A physiological profile of tennis match play.

Med Sci Sports Exerc 33:(6) 999–1005

35 TP P

Development of strength and its expression through

the method of periodization on football

G. Cirillo, A. Acanfora, D. Tafuri, G. Raiola

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The research will be carried out on 16 male athletes aged

between 20 and 34 years on that belonging of a football team to 11

enrolled in the region Campania championship, through the use of

physical tests of maximal strength and muscular endurance as well as

body parameters such as muscle circumference, height and weight.

The research takes into account the different phases of training

annually monitored for 3 measurements of physical tests.

Method: The tests will be carried out:—at the beginning of the

preparatory period, At the end of the loading period, At the end of

processing period (which coincides whit the start of the competition).

The tests that will be carried out are: (1) measurement of body cir-

cumferences, (2) test of strength (counter movement jump); (3) test

estimation of VO2 max, V.A.M maximal aerobic speed, S.AN

anaerobic threshold (by Cooper Test 9, 4) weight and height.

Results: The expected results, predicting an increase of about 9 % of

the variables under consideration, which would be an important

result, because we’re talking about professional athletes who, ever in

times of transition, does not significantly reduce their level of per-

formance. The averages of the related of the preparatory period

showed: VO2 max 47.69 ml/kg/min; S.AN 13.19 (km/h); V.A.M.

13.62 (km/h); C.M.J 43; weight 74.18 kg; stature 177 cm; quadriceps

51 cm, BMI 21.

Conclusions: The objective of this research will be to give greater

credence to the proposed Tudor Bompa regarding the method of

periodization for strength development, and in addition, this research

will be the intervene with further modifications of training to improve

the variables under consideration and thus the performance of

athletes.

ReferencesTudor O, Bompa, Haff Gregory G (2009) Periodization. Theory and

methodology of training, 5th edn. Human kinetics, p 126

Raiola G (2014) Motor control and learning skills according to

cognitive and ecological dynamic approach in a vision on

behaviorism, cognitive, gestalt and phenomenology theories.

Mediterr J Social Sci 5:11

Ambretti A, Raiola G, Sibilio M (2011) Motor coordination in the

Italian Primary School: teaching relevance and availability of

Anochin’s theoretical model. Sport Sci 4(2):12–16

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Modulation of training load in young triathletes

A. Di Castro1, M. Fusacchia2, A. Bottoni1, M.F. Piacentini2

1Italian Triathlon Federation2Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: Triathlon is a unique sport because overall performance

depends on the capacity to excel in three sequential activities. As a

result of the interactions in the performance of these three exercises,

triathlon is a complex sport in terms of training load. Although sev-

eral studies already investigated the training load of elite Olympic

distance triathletes, there is a lack of data regarding the younger

categories. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to quantify the

training load in the Italian youth and junior national team and cor-

relate training load and performance.

Method: A questionnaire specifically designed in collaboration with the

Italian triathlon federation (FITRI), was submitted to 59 national young

athletes (14–15 years Youth A, 16–17 years Youth B and 18–19 years

Junior). Training load was calculated according to Cejuela. Differences

between the three preparation periods (General. Special, Competitive)

and between the different categories were calculated through the student

t test using the Bonferroni correction (p\ 0.016).

Results: An age effect was evident between all three categories for males

(Youth A 231 AU ± 69, Youth B 359 AU ± 91 and Junior 483 AU ±

60) (p\0.05). For females, training load was significantly different

between Youth A (198 AU ± 81) and Youth B (402 AU ± 81)

(p\0.05), but there was no significant difference between Youth B and

Junior (473 AU ± 65). Furthermore a significant increase in TL through-

out the three different training periods (General, Special and Competition)

was observed for all three categories. No significant correlation was

observed between training load (AU) and race performance (measured

as overall ranking position), except for the Junior male categories (r.-0.5).

Conclusion: Optimal training load to reach high-level performance is

well established. Recent data reported an average training volume of 25 h/

week for elite triathletes, divided in 6 swimming, 5 cycling and 6 running

sessions. Our data showed an increase in training load in the annual and

pluriannual preparation in both genders. Future research should focus on

the methodology of training used in the young triathletes and it would be

interesting to extend the study to a larger number of national athletes.

ReferencesBurgi A (2013) Career development of world class triathletes. ITU

Science and Triathlon World Conference Losanna

Cejuela Anta R, Jonathan Esteve-Lanao (2011) Training load

quantification in triathlon. J Hum Sport Exerc 6:218–232

37 TP P

Attention and blood lactate levels in equestrians

performing show jumping

D. Di Corrado1, Va. Perciavalle2, V. Perciavalle3, M. Coco3

1Department of Sport Sciences, University ‘‘Kore’’ of Enna, Enna, Italy2Department of Sciences of Formation, University of Catania, Catania,

Italy3Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania,

Italy

Aim: In equestrian show jumping, attention is particularly important

to ensure maximum accuracy in performance. In literature, no

information was provided by the equestrian during show jumping

about the influences of blood lactate levels on attention. Due to the

anaerobic nature of the jumping and its requirement for precision

coordination between human and horse, there may be a relation

between the onset of lactic threshold and decrease in attention. The

aim of this study was to measure blood lactate and glucose for eval-

uating possible correlations of their blood values with intensity of

attention, analyzed by using a typical reaction time paradigm, and

selectivity of attention, explored by evaluating a test of divided

attention.

Method: In 12 healthy and injury-free equestrians (6 men and 6

women), the effects (blood lactate and glucose) of a show jumping

course (250 m long with eight vertical obstacles with a height of 1.15 m

height) on capacity and selectivity of attention were assessed. Structural

equation modelling (SEM) was used to clarify the magnitudes of rela-

tions between variables as well as the fit of a proposed model.

Results: Each participant performed the course three times and for

each of them, the best and the worst performance was chosen for the

study. At the end of the course, a significant increase of blood lactate

was observed, whereas blood glucose did not significantly change.

Moreover, a deterioration of attention (intensity and selectivity) and a

worsening of performance with increasing of blood lactate were

observed.

Conclusion: The present results led to the conclusion that the

increase in blood lactate that occurs in riders executing a show

jumping course is associated with worsening of both attentive capa-

bilities and performance.

ReferencesDouglas JL et al (2012) A systematic review of physical fitness,

physiological demands and biomechanical performance in eques-

trian athletes. Comp Exerc Physiol 8:53–62

Piccione G et al (2010) Blood lactate levels during exercise in athletic

horses. Comp Clin Pathol 19:535–539

38 TP P

Lipid oxidation during exercise in paralympic winter

athletes with locomotor impairments

A. Duca1, R. Lanzano3, F. Parisi3, C. Marini2, M. R. Squeo3,

D. Dante3, M. Righi1, C. Gallozzi2, M. Bernardi3

1Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological-Functional

Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy2Institute Sport Sciences CONI, Rome, Italy3 Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University,

Roma, Italy

Aim: Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) have a higher car-

diovascular risk than able-bodied individuals due to their specific and

peculiar physio-pathological characteristics including altered glucose

metabolism and greater insulin resistance. The present study is aimed

at assessing lipid oxidation (LO) during arm cranking ergometer

(ACE) steady-state exercises carried out at different sub-maximal

intensities in Paralympic winter athletes (PA) with locomotor

impairments. We evaluated the hypothesis that PA with SCI (PA-SCI)

have a lower LO than PA with other locomotor impairment (PA-OLI).

Method: Thirty-one male PA, including 11 PA-SCI and 20 PA-OLI

(age 33 ± 13.19 and 37.37 ± 8.07 years old, height 1.75 ± 0.12 and

1.76 ± 0.07 m; mass, 66.55 ± 9.83 and 73 ± 6.91 kg, respectively)

gave an informed consent to participate to the study. All PA were

tested both at rest (Canopy Hood, Cosmed, Italy) and during an

incremental ACE (E800, Cosmed, Italy) cardiopulmonary maximal

exercise test through a breath by breath metabolic cart (Quark CPET,

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S17

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Cosmed, Italy) to assess rest oxygen uptake (VO2) and VO2peak,

respectively. In a following day, with the same materials and meth-

ods, PA were submitted to three sub-maximal constant power exercise

tests (S-CPE) at intensities equal to *30, 50 and 70 % of VO2 r-

eserve (VO2R), to assess S-CPE-LO. LO was calculated using the

stoichiometric equation of Frayn.

Results: No differences between PA-SCI and PA-OLI were found in

rest VO2 (ml min-1) and in VO2peak (ml kg-1 min-1, l min-1), equal

to 228.3 ± 57.27 and 248.3 ± 22.28 and 41.3 ± 9.26 (2.7 ± 0.62)

and 36.5 ± 4.39 (2.6 ± 0.43), respectively. No differences in LO

(mg min-1) were found between PA-SCI and PA-OLI, being, at the

three exercise intensities, equal to 174 ± 78.2, 214 ± 77.7 and

191 ± 11.4 and 173 ± 60.8, 171 ± 85.5 and 156 ± 12.1,

respectively.

Conclusion: PA-SCI and PA-OLI have similar values of fat oxidation

and therefore similar glucose metabolism during exercise. High level

of aerobic fitness in individuals with SCI plays a protective role in

cardiovascular risk.

ReferencesBauman WA et al (2008) Coronary heart disease in individuals with

spinal cord injury: assessment of risk factors. Spinal Cord

46:466–476

Knechtle B et al (2003) Comparison of fat oxidation in arm cranking

in spinal cord-injured people versus ergometry in cyclists. Eur J

Appl Physiol 90:614–619

39 TP P

VO2max and VO2AT: athletic performance and field role

of elite soccer players

D. Manari1, M. Manara2, A. Zurini3, G. Tortorella4, M. Vaccarezza5,

N. Prandelli1, D. Ancelotti6, M. Vitale7, P. Mirandola7, D. Galli7

1Parma FC, Collecchio, Italy;2Association of Sport Physicians, Parma, Italy3ALEMEA Consulting, Carpi, Italy4Sport Medicine Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Santa Maria Nuova,

Reggio Emilia, Italy5Department of Human, Social and Health Sciences, University

of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Italy; School of Biomedical Sciences,

University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, QLD, Australia6Real Madrid CF, Madrid, Spain7Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational

Sciences (S.Bi.Bi.T.); Centre for sport and exercise medicine (SEM),

University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy

Aim: Metabolic parameters are becoming more and more important

to optimize training strategies of soccer players. Although maximal

oxygen consumption (VO2max) and anaerobic threshold (VO2AT) are

commonly measured parameters to test elite soccer players, in the

literature there are only few studies relating metabolic parameters of

professional soccer players with performance and best fitting to the

field role. Our aim was to study relations between VO2max and

VO2AT and field role of elite soccer players to generate a robust

dataset with a solid statistical analysis.

Method: On a 12 years period we performed 953 field evaluation

tests of VO2max and VO2AT on 450 elite soccer players of 13 pro-

fessional teams from Italian Serie A, French Ligue 1, English Premier

League, English Football League Championship, Italian Serie B.

Results: VO2max values are strongly influenced by resting periods, but

are rapidly recovered. On the contrary, VO2AT is largely more stable

over time. VO2max is significantly related to the field role, while

VO2AT is not.

Conclusions: Our data show that higher and stable values of VO2A-

T are desirable in elite soccer players as the more robust parameter

related to athletic performance, independently from the field role. On

the contrary, VO2max is the choice parameter to consider for the

metabolic compliance of athletes to the field role requirements,

consequently influencing training efforts, recovery and injuries pre-

vention strategies.

40 TP P

Expertise, gifted and talented in badminton

performance: a project to the improvement

motivational arousal

G. Innocenti1, M. Piazza1, R. Caponigro2

1Department of Clinical, Experimental Medicine, University

of Florence, Italy2Virgin Active, Pescia (PT), Italy

Aim: The population under study is referred to 126 female subjects,

selected from among 1119 subjects, aged between 15 and 84 years

(mean age of 39 years with a standard deviation of 12.9 years) from

19/07/01/17/2014 2007 and participated in the Curves method, the

minimum duration of 30 min to workout at the headquarters of

Chiesina Uzzanese (Pistoia), for a consecutive period of 4 months

Method: In this way we hope to lead the coaches on the approach to a

psychological better sensitivity with due importance. Materials,

means and methods: the sample consisted of 4 male players of

Badminton mid-level players and 2 males of high competitive level,

all part of the team of Badminton COS-Nanteau participating in

amateur leagues in France. Borg ‘‘CR-10’’; Badminton rackets

‘‘babolat first essential’’; Flywheels ‘‘Li-Ning—Badminton shuttle-

cock goose feather’’; Tests were carried out, one initial, December 23,

2013 to assess the percentage use of the service short or long, and the

percentage of winning service, and a final test on February 8, 2014 to

verify the improvements.

Result: The data collection was carried out from day to day 13/01/14

07/02/14. The training made in the afternoon around 17. Recordings

were made according to the following protocol: it was placed in front of

the athletes the Borg ‘‘CR-10’’ with a finger where indicated their level

of physical and mental fatigue. Immediately after the athletes were asked

to perform the heating in the field by means of exchanges for a time of

about 10 min. Statistical analysis: performance training/Borg scale;

training first/last training session; pretest-test/ritest/postest.

Conclusion: The significance was set at p \ 0.05. In this study we

were able to demonstrate that the methodology used in training was

effective, as it has brought improvements to all those who have been

subjected to the method indicated by me. And hope that in a future

athletic trainers and coaches, keep in mind the importance of mental

preparation in the various stages of learning new motor gestures,

through body awareness, the ability to check images, thoughts,

attention, arousal, stress and emphasizing the importance of the

recovery of the sensations of Peak Performance, derived from pre-

vious sporting experiences of success. Being aware that in this kind of

study, the sample size is an important point, you could extend this

work by involving a greater number of athletes. We are convinced

that there is a close link between the ‘‘five-steps strategy and the

performance of the players for closed skill movements, and is the

primary goal for the future to customize more and more training

system overexposed bale to profile individual athlete. In the end we

can declare that the ‘‘Five-Step Strategy’’, drafted by Singer, can be

applied, with appropriate modifications, a wide range of physical

activities and sports in closed skill.

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ReferencesAsian Badminton, Asian Badminton Confederation, Kuala Lumpur

from Malaysia

Badminton USA, Colorado Springs, USA

Singer RN, Cauraugh JH, Lucariello G, Brown HJ (1985) Achieve-

ment in related psychomotor tasks as influenced by learning

strategies. J Percept Motor Skills 60:843–846

Singer RN, Cauraugh JH (1984) Generalization of psychomotor

learning strategies related to psychomotor tasks. J Hum Learn

3:215–225

Platonov VN (2005) Supercompensation, loads, adaptation and some

other problems of sports science. SdS—Scuola dello Sport 65–66

41 TP P

Analysis of proprioceptive exercises effects on inline

speed skating top-level athletes

S. Lotto, F. Masedu, M. Angelozzi, M. G. Vinciguerra, M. De Angelis

Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: The proprioceptive sub system play fundamental role for the

sportive performance (new target in the didactic system). This study

aims at providing a preliminary evidence of the efficacy of a

proprioceptive training in top-level inline speed skating athletes

with Prop sports equipment (prop is like a balance equipment).

Changing the COP status. COP status has been estimated by the

sway ellipse area (SEA), considered as a proxy variable of the

subjects’ stability. The propose of this study is to explorer: Sci-

entific study imprinting, ‘‘Prop’’ Functional valuation, The

proprioceptive training role.

Method: The research was conducted with the participation of an

‘‘experimental group’’ of 6 athletes. In tests have been indicated the

modifications of the position of the center of pressure during the

isometric position in single stance both with and without visual

feedback, through the platform of strength. It was also suggested a

questionnaire on the perception of the effects of training with the

Prop, consists of 30 multiple choice questions. Between the two tests,

the GS has been subjected to a training proprioceptive with a

12 weeks duration. Descriptive statistics have been provided. The

statistical analysis has been carried out by a Wilcoxon test for mat-

ched pair subjects, addressing the issue of a no Gaussian distribution

of the samples. First type error has been set at 5 %. Besides the

monotonic of the response across subjects has been explored using a

Kendall t.

Results: The statistical analysis showed, given eyes opened, a sta-

tistically significant difference of the SEA median value before and

after the protocol administration (p = 0.046). The SEA median dif-

ference was not statistically significant anymore when the subjects

performed the trials with eyes closed (p = 0.116). A Kendall t of 0.73

between the SEA values with eyes opened has been detected. This

association decreases at 0.33 when the subjects have eyes closed.

Conclusion: The results showed that the use of the prop investigated

in relation to quality, bring generally good improvements. Many can

be the developments on the combination of proprioception—sports

performance, by coupling the use of the balance with specific methods

of training or combining the prop with the use of various types of

overload.

ReferenceAngelozzi M et al (2006) Proggettazione di un nuovo protocollo per

lo studio del controllo fine della forza muscolare. It J Sport Sci

1(18):99–163

42 TP P

Gymnastics talent identification

O. Georgeta Varzaru, C. Galbusera, M. Quarantelli

University of Rome ‘‘San Raffaele’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to research a sequence of tests that have

a predictive potential regarding the artistic gymnastics at a competi-

tive level. Nowadays in Italy, this kind of tests is measured for little

girls that are more than 8 years old. There are no tests in women’s

artistic gymnastics for beginners with an age between 6 and 8 years

old.

Method: A systematic review was conducted to identify some spe-

cific tests and to establish which are the most important characteristics

needed for a gymnast and finally how to point them out in this sport.

A sequence of tests based on American, Russian and Romanian

models was selected and applied on 13 female beginners of artistic

gymnastics. During 12 weeks of training.

Results: At the second test, therefore after the training, almost all the

girls have improved: three girls were chosen for the competitive team

and other two are still under supervision. The study argues that the

initial value cannot always be predictive, while it can be interesting

the comparison between the first test and the following one, because it

also expresses the ability of being trainable of some examined sub-

jects. Thus some girls had excellent improvements, even though they

had started with a low level in the first test. This point is not altering

the tests at all; on the contrary it focuses the need of continuous tests,

in order to add corrections to the way of training and to identify

exercises as many as possible.

Conclusion: The anthropometric characteristics of the female gym-

nasts are: lower height than girls of the same age, broad shoulders,

and narrow pelvises, mainly with long limbs. Another characteristic is

the ability of equilibrium both static and dynamic. Furthermore,

another fundamental aspect is the demand of explosive strength that

needs to be higher than the one of the same age girls. Future research

will need to deepen the correlation between the different character-

istics, and to identify which ones would be considered in order to

protect the gymnast besides of increasing her performance.

ReferencesArkaev L, Suchilin N (2004) Gymnastics, how to create champions.

Meyer & Meyer SPORT

Readhead L (2011) Gymnastics, skills, techniques, training, crowood

sport guides. The Crowood Press

Toma A (2007) Metodologia de Desfasurare a Procesului de Selectiei

In Gimnastica Artistica Feminina. Tesi di Laurea Universita Anefs

Bucarest Romania

43 TP P

Indoor cycling training

G. Marcolin, C. Galbusera, M. Quarantelli

University of Rome ‘‘San Raffaele’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: The present research investigates the acute and chronic physi-

ological responses to indoor cycling exercise on home trainer, also

compared to cross training or inactivity. The effects of indoor cycling

training in a virtual reality environment (music, Images and virtual

partner) are also considered.

Method: It was conducted a systematic review of available literature

of exercise physiology, published on the most important search

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S19

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engines such as PUBmed, PEDro, Web of Science, Journal of Science

and Cycling.

Results: It is possible to say that indoor cycling training offers a valid

performance enhancement if compared to cross training with other

disciplines or deconditioning. Also, it is possible to underline that it

allows the improving of all the most important physiological endur-

ance parameters. Training plans C6 weeks seem to induce positive

physiological adaptations and consequent performance improvement.

The major limit of this practice seems to consist in the difficulty of

training endurance adaptations for exercise lasting more than 2 h.

Indoor training, finally, allows to pair all virtual reality techniques

with training allowing a higher level of focusing on exercise and

diminishing the sensation of fatigue.

Conclusion: Indoor cycling training can be suggested as a valid

training practice with the goal of performance improving. If per-

formed by itself, in order to train the adaptations to long lasting

endurance sessions, 2 or more hours, the double training daily session

can be suggested. Indoor training results also as the most efficacy way

to prevent deconditioning with a minimum of 3 short (30 min)

weekly, high intensity, training sessions. Virtual reality, finally, offers

the possibility to create a good distractor setting, able to delay the

upcoming of mental and physical fatigue.

ReferencesAllen H, Coggan A (2010) Training and racing with a power meter,

2nd edn. Velo Press, Boulder Colorado

Annesi JJ (2001) Effects of music, television and a combination

enterteinment system on distraction, exercise adherence, and

physical output in adults. Can J Behav Sci

Larry Kenney W, Wilmore J, Costill D (2011) Physiology of sport and

exercise. Human Kinetics Publishers

Mestre DR, Ewald M (2011) Virtual reality and exercise: behavioral

and psychological effects of visual feedback. Annual Review of

Cybertherapy and Telemedicine. CNRS & Aix-Marseille Univer-

sity, France

44 TP P

Body composition and resting energy expenditure

variations in professional cyclists during the Giro

d’Italia (2011) 3-weeks stage race

R. Sammarco1, M. Marra1, B. Da Prat3, A. Caldara1,

C. Montagnese1, F. Vitale1, M. Naccarato1, F. Contaldo1,2,

R. Corsetti4

1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II

University, Naples, Italy2Interuniversity Center of Obesity and Eating Disorders3Division of Nutrition DS Medica Srl, Milan, Italy4Liquigas Cannondale Medical Board, Sesto al Reghena

(Pordenone), Italy

Aim: Limited data are available on body composition and resting

energy expenditure (REE) modifications in elite athletes during a long

term competition. This study aimed to evaluate body composition (in

particular water distribution) and REE modifications in professional

cyclists participating at Giro d’Italia (2011) 3-weeks stage race.

Method: The team of 9 professional cyclists of Pro Cycling Team

Liquigas Cannondale participated at the study: age 26.7 ± 2.5 years,

weight 69.1 ± 5.2 kg, height 182 ± 5.0 cm, BMI 20.9 ± 1.3. All

data were collected the day immediately before starting the compe-

tition (baseline), the day of rest (after the 9th lap) and the last day of

the competition (21th lap). Body weight, height, body circumfer-

ences, skinfold thicknesses and bioelectrical impedance analysis

(BIA) variables were measured. REE measurements have been

obtained by indirect calorimetry. Body composition (Fat Free Mass:

FFM; Fat Mass: FAT) was estimated by skinfold thickness while

phase angle (BIA parameter) was considered expression of body

water distribution.

Results: There were not significant differences between the time-

points in anthropometric measurements and body composition

(baseline: body weight 69.1 ± 5.2 kg, FFM 64.5 ± 4.7 kg, FAT

4.6 ± 1.0 kg; after 21th lap: body weight 68.7 ± 5.0 kg, FFM

64.4 ± 4.6 kg FAT 4.3 ± 0.8 kg) but body water distribution was

significantly modified and phase angle (PA) significantly decreased

throughout the competition (PA baseline 8.50� ± 0.76�; PA after 21th

lap: 7.50� ± 0.43�, p \ 0.05). REE decreased significantly during the

competition (baseline 2,213 ± 156 kcal; after 9th lap 1,929 ±

116 kcal/day, p \ 0.05) and a relation between REE reduction and

intracellular water distribution throughout the competition was

observed.

Conclusion: These preliminary study indicate a clear modification in

total body water distribution and a REE reductions during the com-

petition in elite cyclists participating at Giro d’Italia 3-weeks stage

race while there was no body weight and composition changes.

ReferencesMarra M et al (2009) Bioelectrical impedance phase angle in

constitutionally lean females, ballet dancers and patients with

anorexia nervosa. Eur J Clin Nutr 63:905–908

Silva AM et al (2010) Body composition and power changes in elite

judo athletes. Int J Sports Med 31:737–741

45 TP P

Determinants of peak oxygen uptake in male

paralympic athletes with a locomotor impairment

M. R. Squeo1, C. Galvani2, P. E. Adami1, R. Lanzano1, A. Duca4,

C. Marini3, C. Gallozzi3, M. Bernardi1

1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology ‘‘Vittorio Erspamer’’,

Sapienza University, Rome, Italy2Department of Psychology, Laboratory of Experimental Physiology,

Cattolica del Sacro Cuore University, Milan, Italy3Institute Sport Sciences CONI, Rome, Italy4Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological-Functional

Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy

Aim: Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) of athletes with a locomotor

impairment (ALI) is a their fundamental health and fitness charac-

teristic. It has been related to motor functionality (MF), training

status and oxygen consumption measured during sport. The present

study was aimed at building a VO2peak prediction model based on

easy measurable variables. To accomplish this purpose, VO2peak was

assessed in Paralympic ALI competing in sports with different energy

expenditure and correlated with their age, anthropometric parameters,

MF, hours of training carried out during the week (TH) and average

sport’s metabolic equivalent (METs). We hypothesized that METs is

the main VO2peak.determinant.

Method: Forty-seven male ALI (mean ± SD: age 35 ± 8.1 years;

height 1.76 ± 0.11 m; body mass 68.7 ± 9.4 kg; MF 2.5 ± 1.1; TH

10 ± 4 h/week), competing in different sports (Nordic Skiing-NS,

Wheelchair Fencing-WF, Wheelchair Tennis-WT, Wheelchair Bas-

ketball-WB, Wheelchair Racing-WR, Hand-Byke-HB and Table

Tennis-TT) were tested through indirect calorimetry (Quark b2,

Cosmed, Italy) during a continuous graded maximal arm cranking

exercise test to assess VO2peak. MF was assessed with a score from

1 to 4.5, each 0.5 point in accordance with the International WB

S20 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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Federation functional classification by expert classifiers. The fol-

lowing METs were attributed: 11 in NS, 6 in WF, 7 in WT, 8 in WB,

10 in WR, 11 in HB and 2.5 in TT. TH were calculated through a

questionnaire summing the hours spent practicing sport and other

kinds of training (resistance, endurance, flexibility, skill). A multiple

regression mo del was built to predict VO2peak based on its possible

significant determinants. A Bland&Altman plot was used to assess

any systematic bias between measured VO2peak and predicted

VO2peak in another group of 50 ALI competing in the same sports.

Results: Linear regression (R2: 0.876, p \ 0.0001) revealed the

following equation: 28.266 - (0.162 � age) - (0.267 � kg) +

(0.648 � TH) + (2.569 � METs) + (2.553 � MF). The predicted and

the measured VO2peak assessed in the control group were equal

(33.8 ± 7.88 and 32.4 ± 10.10 ml kg-1 min-1, respectively).

Conclusion: The prediction model, which should be used routinely to

monitor ALI’s training status, was successfully validated. METs

resulted the most significant determinant of VO2peak.

ReferencesBernardi et al (2010) Med Sci Sports Exerc 42(6):1200–1208

Hutzler (1993) Paraplegia 31(4):255–261

van der Woude et al (2002) Am J Phys Med Rehabil 81(4):261–271

46 TP P

Estimating the best performance in RunForScience half

marathon by laboratory and field evaluations

C. Tarperi, K. Skroce, L. Festa, F. Schena

Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona

Aim: To evaluate the predictor capacity of 2 and 10 km maximal field

test, in order to estimate the half-marathon best performance and its

relation with the classical physiological variables related to endurance

performance (V0O2max, aerobic and anaerobic thresholds) obtained in

a cardiopulmonary laboratory test (CPET).

Method: 27 amateur runners 17 males and 10 females

(44.4 ± 8.1 yy; 69.7 ± 11.7 kg; 173.1 ± 9.6 cm), with a minimum

of 4 years of running experience voluntarily participated to the study.

Every participant provided informed written consent, followed a

monitored and balanced training and performed a treadmill CPET

(Quark PFT Cosmed, Italy). Respiratory breath-by-breath gas

exchanges were measured, in order to determine V0O2max, maximal

aerobic speed Smax, speed at ventilatory aerobic (sVT1) and anaer-

obic (sVT2) thresholds by Wasserman method were offline derived.

After a standardized warm-up, the subjects realized their maximal 2

and 10 km run performance in a 400-m track and in a separate session

were engaged in a maximal 21 km trial in RunForScience’s project

(R4S). The average speeds of every distance were calculated (S2 km,

S10 km and S21 km).

Results: Mean ± SD data measured were: V0O2max = 49.84 ±

5.54 ml min-1 kg-1; Smax = 13.7 ± 1.5 km h-1; sVT1 = 11.48 ±

1.35 km h-1; sVT2 = 12.89 ± 1.52; S2 km = 14.0 ± 1.62 km h-1;

S10 km = 12.3 ± 1.43 km h-1 and S21 km = 11.6 ± 1.34 km h-1.

A matrix of correlation coefficients (R) was realized in order to

compare different parameters:–: V0O2max; Smax; sVT1; sVT2; S21 km; S10 km; S2 km; RV’O2max: –; 0.53; 0.92; 0.67; 0.60; 0.56; 0.65; 3.92

Smax: 0.53; –; 0.95; 0.97; 0.93; 0.93; 0.98; 5.27

sVT1: 0.92; 0.95; –; 0.95; 0.87; 0.91; 0.95; 5.54

sVT2: 0.67; 0.97; 0.95; –; 0.89; 0.91; 0.95; 5.34

S21 km: 0.60; 0.93; 0.87; 0.89; –; 0.95; 0.93; 5.16

S10 km : 0.56; 0.93; 0.91; 0.91; 0.95; –; 0.92; 5.17

S2 km: 0.65; 0.98; 0.95; 0.95; 0.93; 0.92; –; 5.38

Discussion: Every field trial shown an high correlation vs. R4S with

S21 km, sVT1 and sVT2, highest in Smax-S2 km relation. Rarely, on

the field, there is the possibility to carry out several evaluations.

Therefore, in order to select a single optimal trial, the 2 km test,

considering the of the correlation coefficients appears to be the best

choice. Indeed it permits to estimate aerobic and anaerobic capacities

and to predict the best 21 km time performance.

47 TP P

The after-London in the rhythmic gymnastics

A. Tinto1,2

1SUISM Centro Servizi, Universita degli Studi di Torino2National Technician-Italian Gymnastics Federation

Aim: This study aims at investigating those different aspects char-

acterizing the Score Code evolution. The Olympic Games of London

have been considered as the watershed of this analysis. Moreover, a

pre- and post- London period has been defined and evaluated through

the discussion of the main characteristics of the various Codes,

managing to analyse the current one of the four-year period

2013–2016 which prepares for the Games of Rio de Janeiro.

Method: In order to accurately develop this technical and artistic

comparison among the codes leaving their mark on different gener-

ation of gymnasts, we have chosen to begin the work of discussion

with the Score Code 2001–2004 making, where possible, reference to

the evolution of the discipline also in more remote times (Score Code

1997–2000). The Score Code editions we are making reference to are

2001–2004, 2005–2008, 2009–2012 and 2013–2016; the discussion

on the differences of the Codes has been based on the number of the

compulsory body difficulties present, on the composition of the juries

and on the attribution of the total score, pointing out the main dif-

ferences in the technical requests of the Individual Specialty within

the Codes.

Results: The Olympic Games of London 2012 of Gymnastics Artistic

has determined the end of a period characterized by an extreme

research of technical and body aspects to the detriment of the artistic

and expressive component of the discipline. The Score Code

2005–2007, preceding the one in view of London 2012, was char-

acterized by 18 compulsory difficulties for individual compositions,

number which has kept reducing in the following four-year periods,

arriving at 12 for the Score Code 2009–2012 and at 9 for the current

Code. The work of analysis and comparison among codes would like

to invite Rhythmic Gymnastics’ trainers to rediscover the origin of the

discipline and above all to focus on the Rhythmic aspect now com-

pulsorily present in the Code. As fundamental element, the training of

this Rhythmic skill since children’s earliest years has turned to

something absolutely non-negligible. Training towards the rhythm is

possible even in a young phase.

ReferencesCode de Pointage 2001 FIG

Code de Pointage 2005 FIG

Code de Pointage 2009 FIG

Code de Pointage 2013 FIG

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S21

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48 TP P

Effects of a task-specific warm-up

on a single-sprint cycling performance

A. Trecroci, A. Rossi, D. Formenti, F. Esposito, G. Alberti

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: Warm-up (WU) is a well-accepted practice that determines

psychophysiological positive effects before performance, such as an

increase in muscle temperature, a decrease in stiffness of muscles and

joints, and an improvement of the force–velocity relationship. How-

ever, despite many authors reported an enhanced performance after

WU, other researchers have found no positive effects. The aim of this

study was to assess the effectiveness of WU, compared to a no warm-

up condition (nWU), on a 6-s maximal sprint.

Methods: Twelve physically active males (age 22.8 ± 1.8 years;

BMI 22.6 ± 2.4 kg m-2) were recruited in the study. To ensure

reliability of the sprint cycling, participants completed two familiar-

ization sessions. In the first trial, participants completed a test-specific

standardized WU consisting of cycling for 4 min at a power of

90–100 W (80/90 rpm), followed by 3 bouts of 2-s maximal accel-

erations at the end of 2nd, 3rd and 4th min. The recovery interval

following the WU was 4 min. In the nWU trial, participants sat on the

cycle-ergometer for 10 min before the maximal 6-s sprint. Peak

power per kg (PP), mean power per kg (MP) and total work per kg

(TW) were measured. Paired t test and effect size (ES) were used for

statistical analysis, with confidence intervals set at 95 % (p \ 0.05).

Results: The participants reached higher PP (WU = 12.91 ± 1.68,

nWU = 12.32 ± 1.60 W kg-1; p = 0.015; ES = 0.35, small differ-

ence), MP (WU = 11.82 ± 1.48, nWU = 11.20 ± 1.59 W kg-1;

p = 0.005; ES = 0.38, small difference) and TW (WU = 71.11 ±

9.09, nWU = 67.99 ± 9.14 J kg-1; p = 0.015; ES = 0.32, small dif-

ference) values when performing maximal 6-s sprint after the WU.

Conclusion: The results demonstrated that short-term performance

increased significantly when preceded by a specific WU. This sug-

gests that the overall intensity of WU was appropriate for enhancing

PP, MP, TW. According to the findings, some authors verified that an

active WU was beneficial for a single-sprint performance [3]. Further

studies are needed to assess the impact of a task-specific WU on

intermittent-sprint performance.

ReferencesBishop D (2003) Warm up II. Sports Med 33:483–498

Hawley JA, Williams MM, Hamling GC, Walsh RM (1989) Effects of

a task-specific warm-up on anaerobic power. Br J Sports Med

23:233–236

Yaicharoen P, Wallman K, Morton A, Bishop D (2012) The effect of

warm-up on intermittent sprint performance and selected thermo-

regulatory parameters. J Sci Med Sport 15:451–456

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, WELLBEING ANDHEALTH

49 PA O

Technological support to monitor some indexes

of physical performance and glycemic trend

during sporting activity in athletes with type 1

diabetes mellitus

C. De Fazio, M. Corigliano, V. Russo, G. Corigliano

Diabetologic Unit A.I.D. ASL NA 1, Naples, Italy

Aim: Insulin regimens and timing of exercise (E) vary individually

and adjustment is a trial and error process aided by frequent blood

glucose (bg) monitoring (m). Some athletes wrongly think that E

starting in a fair hyperglycemic (hyper) state (attempt to pre-load)

reduces the hypoglycemic risk (hypo), but many variables come into

play; with a severely hyper pre-E complications can be serious. Aim

of study: take a cue from a SA to improve, through the evaluation of a

multi-m of cardio-metabolic parameters, the MSC of T1DM and to

include SA in therapeutic.

Methods: CSII Pump Medtronic Paradigm Veo Version 2.5A1.1, CGM

Medtronic Paradigm Veo Sensor Mod554, energy expenditure (EE):

Pro3Armband SenseWear� software cronolife, heart rate (HR) Oregon,

VO2max (Karvonen Formula), carbohydrate (CHO): food diary.

Results: Runner [55 years (y)], from 18 T1DM y and a few y engaged

in amateur SA (HbA1c 7.5 %, weight 79 kg, BMI 24.9 kg/m2, resting

HR 62 bpm), in treatment with CSII pump [basal 13.9 U/24 h; bolus

0.7 U breakfast (b), 1.5 U lunch (l), dinner 2U (d)], only background

retinopathy complication. High CHO intake (105 g previous d, 42 g b,

118 g l, 80 g d). EE = 1774 kcal, 10.5METs average, *10 km/h,

pre-SA HR = 76 bpm, average HR = 150–155 bpm (*85 %

VO2max). Unmodified basal (SA duration £2 h), omitted pre-bolus

and increase CHO, bg pre-E *200 mg/dl. Glycogen resynthesis *8 h

post-SA (CGM: h20–22) and production of late hypo.

Conclusions: The bivalent gt, detected by complex monitoring, is only

partially contained by therapeutic adaptations used; glycogenolysis by E

above anaerobic threshold (AT), linked to the intensity of the SA, it is a

sign of scarce training. We shall at a submaximal test (review of:

VO2max, AT) to be able to structure an IMP aimed primarily upon the

use of NEFA and circulating glucose besides to get less pronounced

changes in bg by glycogenolysis without hyper nor hypo from sub-

traction of bg, so as to have an improvement in the MSC. E is strongly

recommended in T1DM for the many positive effects [1], but for pre-

ventive and therapeutic effective suggested the supervision of a SPAPE,

able to plan and implement a correct dosage [2].

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ReferencesGalletti P, Riddell MC (2013) Exercise and type 1 diabetes. Compr

Physiol 3(3):1309–1336

Jimenez CC, Corcoran MH, Crawley JT, Guyton Hornsby W, Peer

KS, Philbin RD, Riddell MC (2007) National athletic trainers’

association position statement: management of athlete with type 1

diabetes mellitus. J Athl Train 42(4):536–545

50 PA OP

The use of micro loads and the elastic bands training

in Parkinson’s disease: a longitudinal study

M. Gollin1, L. Beratto2, R. Allois2, A. Binelli3, A. Toscano3,

S. Di Tommaso3, C. Mazza3, P. G. Gili4

1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences; Motor Science

Research Center, University School of Motor and Sport Sciences,

University of Turin, Italy2PhDc in Experimental Medicine and Therapy, University of Turin,

Italy3University School of Motor and Sport Sciences Graduate, University

of Turin, Italy4Italian Parkinson Association, Section of Turin (AIP), Italy

Aim: To investigate whether isotonic exercises performed with the use

of micro loads (ballasted wrist and ankle bandages), compared with

exercises carried out with elastic bands, cause a physical capacity

variation in a group of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Method: The duration of the study was 6 months. Twenty-one people

with PD participated in the study, all of whom were able to walk

unassisted. The sample group was divided into two groups : the first

(EG), consisting of 11 subjects (age 69–10 years; weight 72–12 kg,

height 171–177 cm, and a disability score using the Hoehn & Yahr

scale of 2–0.5) used isotonic exercises with the addition of micro

loads. The second group (BG), consisting of 9 subjects (age

70–11 years; weight 69–15 kg and high 169 cm and a disability score

using the Hoehn & Yahr scale of 1.9–0.5) used the same exercises of

the EG, but with elastic bands. Two sessions of physical activity were

performed per week, separated by a recovery day. The two groups

were measured 2 months after the beginning of the activity and every

2 months until the conclusion of the study. The tests were: Sit &

Reach for the evaluation of flexibility; the stabilometry useful for the

evaluation of the center of orthostatic pressure (COP); the Spinal

mouse for the evaluation of spinal morphology; and the Sit to Stand to

provide information on the strength of the lower limbs.

Results: Data showed a statistically significant variation in the Sit to

stand test in the BG group (T0 vs. T2; Anova, p \ 0.05, post hoc,

p \ 0.05, +19 %).

Conclusion: Six months of strength stimulation with the use of elastic

bands produced in patients with PD a significant improvement in the

muscle performance of the lower limbs.

51 PA OP

Exercise program reduces pain and physical disability

in patients with early knee osteoarthritis

K. Corona1, S. Cerciello1, D. Viggiano1, C. Dentizzi2, M. Vasso1,

C. Del Regno1, A. Schiavone Panni1

1Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Italy2ASREM, Azienda Sanitaria Regionale del Molise, Italy

Aim: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative pathology of the

cartilage that can limit the quality of life. Knee pain, stiffness and

decreased quadriceps strength are highly associated with knee

OA, contribute to physical disability and can cause progression of

the disease. Reduction of pain and disability is the main aim of

any treatment approach in the management of knee OA. The

purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of an

exercise program on pain and physical function for patients with

early knee OA.

Method: Thirty patients over 50 with early knee OA (grade 1 and 2 of

Ahlback classification) were enrolled in the study. They were ran-

domly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: an exercise group (EG) and control

group (CG). The EG performed a 16 weeks exercise program based

on improvement of aerobic fitness, range of motion and lower limb

muscle strength and stretching. Exercise program differs in frequency,

intensity and duration. All participants completed the following

questionnaires: SF-36, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities

Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at baseline and after 16 weeks.

Moreover they performed physical test: Six minute Walking test

(6MWT). After walking test, patients were asked to fill a visual

analog scale.

Results: The results of 6MWT of EG increased from the baseline to

the last follow-up (665–722 m). Patients reported reduced pain during

the follow-up period (4–2.8 mm), indicating a trend toward better

walking capacity. In the same way, patients showed significant

improvement in SF-36 (73–92) and WOMAC scores (77–68) at final

follow-up.

Conclusion: Physical activity is considered to be an important non-

pharmacologic treatment approach in the management of early knee

OA. The goal of exercise therapy in OA patient is to reduce pain and

disability. Therefore, a good exercise program with improvement of

knee muscle strength, stretching, joint stability, range of motion and

aerobic fitness can be proposed.

ReferencesBennell KL, Hunt MA, Wrigley TV, Hunter DJ, Hinman RS (2007)

The effects of the hip muscle strengthening on knee load, pain and

function in people with knee osteoarthritis: a protocol for a

randomised, single-blind controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet

Disord 8:121

Mikesky AE, Mazzuca SA, Brandt KD, Perkins SM, Damush T, Lane KA

(2006) Effects of strength training on the incidence and progression of

the knee osteoarthritis. Arthritis Rheum 55(5):690–699

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S23

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52 PA OP

An integrated program of counseling and adapted

physical activity in the management of type II diabetes

F. Galle1, V. Di Onofrio2, R. Mastronuzzi1, A. Cirella1, M. Di Dio1,

A. Miele1, T. Spinosa3, G. Liguori1

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Naples

‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy3Planning and Organisation Operative Structure, Campania Regional

Health Agency, Naples, Italy

Aim: Several studies showed the role of physical activity in the

prevention and treatment of type II diabetes. Adapted Physical

Activity (APA) may represent a therapeutic instrument if associated

with an educational path aimed to empower diabetic patients and with

the pharmacological treatment. In order to redefine the Diagnostic and

Therapeutic Care Pathway (DTCP) for the management of type II

diabetes, we created a care model based on a structured APA program

and on periodic counseling meetings.

Method: General practitioners working in the area of Naples (quar-

ters ‘‘Fuorigrotta’’ and ‘‘Vomero’’), Bacoli, Monte di Procida e

Pozzuoli, were involved on the basis of their willingness and local

position. Among their patients, they recruited volunteer subjects with

type II diabetes aged 50–70 years and without severe comorbidities.

All of them signed an informed consent for the collection and treat-

ment of clinical data; a group was addressed to the APA and

counseling programs, while the others will represent the control

sample.

Before starting motor activities, collective counseling meetings con-

cerning the influence of physical activity and correct diet on health

status were performed by experts in these fields. Counseling meetings

proceed trimonthly.

The APA sessions include exercises for cardiovascular, muscular

and osteoarticular systems. Senior fitness test was employed to

evaluate physical fitness of each patient at the start of the activities

(T0) and this is repeated every 3 months.

After 12 months (T12) the possible economic advantages (direct

and indirect costs) deriving from this new DTCP will be evaluated

through a Health Technology Assessment perspective.

Results: The first results and the patients’ opinions collected by

general practitioners and experts, testify a positive impact of the

model. A reduction of body weight and waist circumference is reg-

istered among participants, together with a perception of an improved

health status and quality of life. Furthermore, general practitioners

report a general improvement of the glycemic control and a reduced

use of hypoglycemic drugs.

Conclusion: The main challenge of the disease management is the

integration of different figures and institutions. At now, the obtained

results allow to forecast a higher spread of APA structured programs,

both at local and national level, with an integration among social and

healthcare and movement sciences settings.

53 PA OP

Nordic walking versus walking: energy expenditure

and muscle activation

B. Pellegrini1,2, C. Zoppirolli1,2, L. Bortolan1,2,

L. A. Peyre-Tartaruga3, F. Schena1,2

1CeRiSM (Research Centre of Mountain Sport and Health),

University of Verona, Italy2Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Italy3 School of Physical Education, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande

do Sul, Brasil

Aim: Nordic Walking has increased in popularity in the last decades

as a form of exercise that can be adapted for various populations.

Additional benefits of Nordic Walking compared with traditional

brisk walking include higher caloric expenditure due to the use of the

poles that requires the activation of upper body muscles. The aim of

this study was to compare energetic and muscle activation during

Walking and Nordic Walking, on differently inclined terrains.

Method: Nine male subjects with at least 2 years of experience in

Nordic Walking volunteered for the study. Five minutes trials of

walking (W) and Nordic walking (NW) on a treadmill at 6 km/h at 0

and 15 % incline were asked. The muscular activation of dominant

arm [Biceps Brachii (BBr), Triceps Brachii (TBr), Latissimus Dorsi

(LDo), Deltoidus Anterior (DAn)] and leg [Vastus Lateralis, (VLa),

Biceps Femoris (BFe), Gastrocnemius Lateralis (GLa) and, Tibialis

Anterior (TAn)] was recorded by means of a surface electromyografic

system. The energy expenditure (EE) was calculated from oxygen

uptake and respiratory quotient measured during the last minute of

each condition by using an ergospirometric system.

Results: On flat condition, EE was found to be 24 % higher for NW

than for W. On uphill condition, EE increased for both NW and W,

however, EE was only 4.3 % higher for NW than for W. The EMG

values resulted not significant different between W and NW for leg

muscles, 2 times higher for NW with respect to W for LDo and BBr

muscle, and 10 times higher for TBr muscle. Increments of slope

resulted in a significant increase of activation of leg muscles, with no

o small variation of arm muscles activation.

Conclusion: The augmented energy expenditure for NW can be

explained, as expected, by an increased activation of the muscles

involved in the pole propulsion. On uphill condition however, the

extra caloric expenditure is reduced, when comparing the two loco-

motion. Muscle activation analysis suggests that the extra energy

needed to lift the body against gravity is originated from a greater

work done by the lower limbs, rather than by the pole propulsion.

These results confirm the advantage to use NW instead of W to

enhance a higher caloric delivery ant to have a more complete muscle

activation, these effects seem to be reduced in slope condition.

ReferencesMorgulec-Adamowicz et al (2011) Nordic walking: a new form of

adapted physical activity (a literature review). Hum Mov

12(2):124–132

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54 PA OP

Daily variability in physical activity,

physical frailty, and ADL in a sample

of institutionalized older adults:

a pilot study

M. Roppolo1,2,3, S. Kunnen2, A. Mulasso1,2,3, E. Rabaglietti1,2,3

1Department of Psychology, University of Torino (IT)2Department of Developmental Psychology, Rijks University of

Groningen (NL)3SUISM, University of Torino

Aim: In a growing old world, it is important to identify indica-

tors of functional decline to better prevent negative health

outcomes. In this view, the focus on trends of health indicators

may be crucial. One of the main protective factor for chronic

diseases is physical activity. Within this context, may be useful

to identify the role of daily physical activity on health indicators.

Specifically, according to dynamic systems theorists, daily

variability may provide important information on the develop-

mental process. The aim of this study is to understand the role

of variability in daily physical activity on physical frailty and

ADL.

Method: 22 institutionalized older adults (mean age 84 ± 6 years,

68 % female) were enrolled in this longitudinal study. Self-report

daily physical activity was measured with a VAS (from 0, inactive all

day to 1 active all day). Physical frailty was assessed with the

SHARE-FI questionnaire and ADL with the Katz index. The vari-

ability of daily physical activity was computed subtracting scores of

two subsequent data point.

Results: The average level of self-reported physical activity was

0.33 ± 0.19. 6 subjects were detected as robust, 5 as pre-frail

and 11 as frail. Daily variability of physical activity accounted,

on average, 5.9 % of the total range, and increases with the level

of physical frailty, specifically: 4.1 % for robust; 4.4 % for pre-

frail, and 7.4 % for frail older adults. Furthermore, daily

variability of physical activity was significantly related with

physical frailty (r = 0.59; p = 0.004) and ADL (r = -0.667;

p = 0.001).

Conclusions: Daily variability of physical activity seems to be an

indicator connected both with physical frailty and ADL. The use

of such an indicator may allow a better identification of at risk

subjects to develop negative health outcomes. This pilot study

seems to confirm the usefulness of a dynamic systems approach

for the study of health during ageing, however wider studies are

necessary.

ReferencesHaskell W et al (2007) Physical activity and public health: updated

recommendation for adults from the ACSM and the AHA.

Circulation 116(9):1081

Idler EL, Benyamini Y (1997) Self-rated health and mortality: a

review of twenty-seven community studies. J Health Soc Behav

38(1):21–37

Kunnen SE (2012) A dynamic systems approach of adolescent

development. Psychology Press

55 PA OP

Feasibility of a physical activity program in patients

with mild cognitive impairment

D. Rudi1, N. Smania2, M. Venturelli3, C. Fonte2, G. Coratella1,

V. Varalta2, F. Schena1

1Department Neurological and Movement Sciences, Movement

Sciences, University of Verona2Department Neurological and Movement Sciences, Movement

Sciences, Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Research Center,

University of Verona, Verona, Italy3Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: Emerging evidence underlined the importance of physical

activity on frailty, independence, communication, depression, cogni-

tion, and quality of life in patients with cognitive decline. However, it

has been recognized that the adherence to standard physical activity

programs is very limited in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment

(MCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility

and the grade of adherence to a specific physical exercise program in

a group of patients with MCI and early-moderate stages of AD.

Method: 5 patients (3F, 2M; mean age 72) were randomly assigned to a

specific exercise-training program (ET). Other 10 patients (6M, 4F; mean

age 76.8) were assigned to a standard cognitive-training (CT) program.

Each session of ET program consisted of 10 min (for each) of bike,

walk, and an exercise on ergometer arms. Then, the patients per-

formed on isotonic ergometers for a number of 10 reps and 3 sets, at

75 % of the maximum strength. Finally, exercises for the abdominal

muscles and stretching were performed.

CT program is a multimodal stimulation to reinforce the cognitive

skills with the aim of reorienting the patient about his self, his history,

and environment.

The ET group and CT group underwent 72 treatment group ses-

sions, 90-min/session, and 3 days/week for 6 consecutively months.

The adherence to ET and CT programs was of 90 %. One subject has

retired for family reasons.

Results: The compliance was very high in all patients. Statistical

analysis will be performed using parametric and non-parametric sta-

tistical tests (SPSS software).

Conclusion: Our results suggest that a specific ET and CT program

are a feasible non-pharmacological approach for the treatment of

dementia in subjects with MCI and early-moderate stages of AD.

ReferencesDechamps A et al (2010) Effects of exercise programs to prevent

decline in health-related quality of life in highly deconditioned

institutionalized elderly persons: a randomized controlled trial.

Arch Intern Med

Laurin D et al (2001) Physical activity and risk of cognitive

impairment and dementia in elderly persons. Arch Neurol

Teri L et al (2003) Exercise plus behavioral management in patients

with Alzheimer disease: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA

Venturelli M et al (2011) Six-month walking program changes

cognitive and ADL performance in patients with Alzheimer. Am J

Alzheimers Dis Other Demen

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56 PA OP

Perceived difficulty with physical tasks and physical

performance in obese children

V. Gallarato1, P. Tortorelli1, E. Mozzillo1,2, E. Tramontano1,

C. Buongiovanni2, O. D’Amico2, M. Sticco2, A. Franzese2,

G. Valerio1

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Department of Translational Medical Science, Federico II University

of Naples, Italy

Aim: Both diet and physical activity are important in the management

of childhood obesity, but the extent of excess weight may undermine

several physical tasks, limiting physical activity and adherence to the

therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the

severity of obesity on perceived difficulty with physical tasks and

physical performance in a sample of outpatient obese children.

Method: One-hundred-fifty children with primary obesity (71 males,

47.3 %), mean age 9.9 ± 2.3 years, were consecutively recruited

from the outpatient clinic of the Department of Translational Medical

Science, Federico II University of Naples. Moderate obesity (Mod-

OB) was defined as BMI-SDS between 1.64 and 2.49, severe obesity

(Sev-OB) as BMI-SDS [2.5. Perceived difficulties with physical

tasks were assessed by interview using a structured questionnaire

(Impact of Weight on Quality-of-Life-Adolescents), which included

seven specific questions regarding physical limitations related to daily

movement. Lifestyle habits were explored by assessing sports par-

ticipation and television viewing. Physical performance was assessed

with the six minute walking test (6MWT).

Results: Compared to Mod-OB children (n = 107) Sev-OB children

(n = 43) showed: higher frequence of perceived difficulty with most

of the explored physical tasks (walking, running, hopping, stair

climbing, feeling clumsy or awkward, getting up from chairs,

p \ 0.02); less sports participation (27.9 vs. 55.1 %, p = 0.003); no

difference in time spent in television viewing; worse performance in

the 6MWT (distance 500.2 ± 4.5 vs. 540.3 ± 61.9 m, p \ 0.001).

Conclusion: Severe obesity is an important barrier to daily physical

activities and sports participation. Our findings may have practical

implications for approaching physical activity in obese children.

Exploring both the perception of a task’s difficulty level and physical

performance may be useful to design exercise programs that allow

safe and successful participation.

ReferencesMorinder G et al (2009) Six-minute walk test in obese children and

adolescents: reproducibility and validity. Physiother Res Int 14:91–104

Tsiros MD et al (2011) Obesity: the new childhood disability? Obesity

Rev 12:26–36

57 PA P

Sport events as communication driver for no-profit

organizations: the case of ‘‘Susan G. Komen

for the Cure’’

M. Tabouras

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this paper is to identify the economic, financial and

reputational benefits that a no profit organization receives, by

organizing sport events. More specifically, the research focuses on the

‘‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’’ Marathon, promoted and organized

by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation since 1982.

Method: The analysis of case study of the Race for the Cure Mara-

thons was developed based on an overview of the recent academic

studies concerning sport events and no profit organizations that

involve sport events in their fundraising activities. Furthermore, the

research is carried out by a documentary analysis of case specific

reports, press and data provided by the organization’s official website.

Results: The outcome of the work shows that the main economic and

financial benefits consist in sponsorships, merchandising and incre-

ment of participants. These actions allow the organization to invest

more funds in research, education, general and administrative activ-

ities in order to fulfill their mission and provide a fertile ground for

firm to invest in. Thanks to events like the Susan G. Komen Race for

the CureSeries and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day for the

Cure, the organization spent during the past 6 years nearly $1.5 bil-

lion in research and community programs making it today the world’s

largest private funder of the breast cancer fight. Thanks to the par-

ticipant’s positive feedback for the Komen Race for the Cure� Series

and the numerous contributions made by corporate partners of dif-

ferent industrial sectors, the foundation experienced a tremendous

expansion, launching a global breast cancer movement.

Conclusion: Sport events represent a suitable fund-raising tool for

non-profit organizations; such events produce a significant positive

stakeholder response, becoming a familiar and reliable international

brand, attracting more sponsors, media and participants with conse-

quent increment of financial, economic and reputational benefits that,

in the case studied, are re-invested in cancer research.

ReferencesSusan Komen Foundation. http://ww5.komen.org/

King S (2006) Pink Ribbons, Inc. Breast cancer and the Politics of

Philanthropy, University of Minnesota Press

Wang H et al (2011) Corporate philanthropy and corporate financial

performance: the role of stakeholder response and political access.

Acad Manag J 54(6):1159–1181

58 PA P

A life goal

G. Alagia, D. Tafuri, G. Raiola

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: This study has as its purpose, to identify whether there are

significant changes in percentage terms, between the years go by the

player and his ability to score.

Method: This study is carried out through the comparison of some

careers of players sampled, who played the role of attacker, and who

have trod the international stage for a very long period of time, cre-

ating more than 300 in their career goals. By defining some

evolutionary stages of their careers, called by the undersigned

developmental stages, spanning a period of between 20 and 35 years.

The developmental stages are broken down thus: 20–25, 25–30,

30–35 years. For each developmental stage will be calculated the

percentage of realizations of each player and through the development

of tables and graphs will be able to determine the performance of the

achievements in conjunction of the increase of age.

Results: Looking at the data and the graphs of the three players, who

played throughout the course of their long career the role of attack-

er, we can summarize the results obtained in the following way: The

footballer Del Piero, during the three developmental stages, showed

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the percentage equal to 27.30 for the first stage, 30.47 for the second,

36.82 for the third stage. The footballer Ronaldo L. N. has achieved

in the first stage a percentage equal to 30.11, 31.53 in the second stage

the third stage shows a percentage of realizations equal to 13.63. The

footballer Raul, has realized for the first stage a percentage of real-

izations equal to 40.25 in the second and in the third 25.31 26.83.

Conclusion: It can be inferred by observing the results that age, not

shown to be a limiting factor for the performance of the players, in

terms of achievements. This study, and ‘the springboard for others

who want to investigate the evolutionary stages of players that per-

form the role of attacker, for instance by highlighting as you change

the types of specific training, during the span of their career.

ReferencesRaiola G, Tafuri D, Gomez Paloma F (2014) Physical activity and

sport skills and its relation to mind theory on motor control. Sport

Sci 8(2)

Bansgbo J (2006) La preparazione fisico-atletica nel calciatore.

Allenamento aerobico e anaerobico. Perugia: Calzetti-Mariucci

59 PA P

Effects of focal vibration in subjects with shoulder

impingement

A. Brunetti1, G. Rinonapoli1, O. Brunetti2, A. Caraffa1, A. Biscarini2,

F. M. Botti2, S. Cerquetani1

1Department of Surg Sez Clin Orth and Traum, Perugia2Department of Sper Med Sez Hum Physiol

This study analyzes the effects of an original muscle vibration para-

digm proven to induce lasting functional enhancements (100 Hz,

focal applications repeated in 3 consecutive days on voluntary con-

tracted muscles), on upper trapezius and supraspinatus, of patients

affected by secondary shoulder impingement syndrome. 10 men and 8

women (56 ± 5 y.h.) were randomly assigned to combined vibratory

and rehabilitative intervention (group A) or to rehabilitative treatment

alone (group B). Upper limb kinematics was recorded during cir-

cumduction tests (repeated CCW movements following a circle,

placed aside the patient) through a Smart DX (BTS) system in terms

of shoulder, elbow and wrist positions and velocities, the simulta-

neous recording of shoulder muscle synergies was allowed by

multiple surface EMG sensors (FreeEMG). The functional impair-

ment was assessed in terms of subjective pain, ROM and strength by

means of the Constant Murley Scale score (CMS). 4 test sessions

were performed (2 pre intervention, 1 24 h after vibration and the

latter at 30 days). For the analysis was applied a two-way ANOVA

for time and intervention type and tBonferroni test for post hoc

multiple comparisons setting significativity at p \ 0.05. In both

groups baseline CMS score was 64 and improved after 30 days

intervention. In group A it rose up to 92 already 24 h after vibration

and persisted at 90 after 30 days, conversely, in group B, it increased

only up to 75.5 after 30 days. EMG baseline recordings showed an

increased activation of the upper trapezius and biceps brachii and a

reduction in activation of the middle and lower trapezius concomitant

to an high execution speed variability in comparison with the healthy

contralateral side. 24 h after vibration, circumduction velocity

increased and became regular and sEMG evidenced a normalization

of muscle activation timing and amplitude. In group B the modifi-

cations resulted less pronounced. In conclusion, both rehabilitation

and focal vibration improve secondary impingement syndrome.

However, focal vibration alone is able to induce immediate effects

persisting up to 30 days with rehabilitative treatment. Rehabilitation

alone results also efficacious even if less effective. It remains unclear

whether vibration aloneis able to maintain persistent effects. EMG

and kinematic recordings suggest an increased agonist–antagonist

balance as substrate of the improvements observed

60 PA P

Fit4waste collectors project—wellness at workplace:

phase 1

M. Gervasi, A. R. Calavalle, D. Sisti, V. Bottos, M. B. L. Rocchi

Biomolecular Sciences Department, University of Urbino ‘‘Carlo

Bo’’, Urbino, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess lifestyles, the perception

about one’s own quality of life and the perception of chronic lower-

back pain amongst a sample group of waste collectors. The results

will be used for the prevention and reduction of work-related injuries

and dysfunctions in a future related project.

Method: A sample of fifty waste collectors employed by SAGER s.r.l

(Villesse, GO, Italy) compiled three different types of questionnaires:

(1) assessed by the Istituto Superiore della Sanita (ISS, Italy) about

different habits: physical activity, smoking, nutrition and drug usage;

(2) the WHOQOL-brief (Work Health Organization Quality of Life)

about physical and psychological health, social relationships and

environmental issues; (3) QPBDS (Quebec Pain Disability Scale) to

assess chronic Low Back Pain level. Using latent class analysis

(LCA) for the first questionnaire results, we identified 2 classes of

subjects, characterized by different patterns of nutrition: unhealthy

(diet with prevalence of refined carbohydrates) and healthy (fruit and

vegetables).

Results: The data highlighted significant differences between

unhealthy and healthy diet habits: cookies and pie consump-

tion = 2.5–3.5 vs. 1.8–2; fruit and vegetable consumption = 2.5–2.6

vs. 3.5–4. Moreover, the unhealthy group had a significantly higher

incidence of smokers. The QPBDS data shows that 97.5 % of the

sampled did not suffer from chronic LBP, so that it could not influ-

ence the other results. Statistical analysis studied also the relationship

between the variables of the two latent classes (healthy vs. unhealthy)

and the WHOQOL score by a two-sample t Test. The WHOQOL data

showed that psychological health depended by 31 % upon variations

in physical activity and that psychological health was closely related

to social activity.

Conclusion: Our results can confirm that those with healthy habits

also scored higher points in the WHOQOL data. It can thus be argued

that the quality of social relationships had a close link with psycho-

logical health and that both were influenced by physical well-being

and a healthy lifestyle.

ReferenceBogale D et al (2014) Assessment of occupational injuries among

Addis Ababa city municipal solid waste collectors: a cross-

sectional study. BMC Public Health 14:169

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61 PA P

Use of technological devices to improve physical

activity: what we can do for elderly people?

M. Ciccarelli, G. Capelli, A. Borgogni

Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University

of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Italy

Aim: The aim of this review is to investigate what has been done so

far in the field of technology development to promote physical

activity in the elderly and is the basis of a study that aims to create an

application for portable devices in order to encourage the elderly to be

more active.

Method: Studies were obtained from computerized searches of

multiple electronic databases biography. Starting from the concept of

Extragames-active virtual games-, several keywords were used for

research purposes: physical activity, motivation, behaviour, and

technological interventions.

Results: The literature review has shown how technology should be

developed to promote and motivate a healthy life. Numerous studies

have been carried out focusing on goals setting, the monitoring of

progress and motivational messages; others, encourage the elderly to

move more with the interaction metaphors and with the persuasion

techniques adapted to technology. A significant amount of them, in

fact, indicates, as a support to lifestyle improvements, the use of

psychological theories of behaviour change that, in connection with

the principles of electrical and information engineering, give rise to

so-called persuasive technology.

Conclusion: This first phase of the study showed that the action of the

technology as a mean to promote physical activity should be aimed at

supporting the change of elderly’s behaviour. The action of the

intended application of our research project, therefore, will be

developed taking into account the method of the Persuasive Tech-

nology and Goal-Setting Theory. This application also must interface

with the user through various functions such as the use of motiva-

tional messages, tips video/image that propose exercise to do at home

or outdoors. It will also be able to detect the amount of daily physical

activity and provide a geo-referenced map of the city, pointing

‘‘walkable’’ and cycle paths more suitable for elderly; open spaces or

facilities where he/she can do the chosen physical activity.

ReferencesConsolvo S, McDonald DW, Landay JA (2009) Theory-driven design

strategies for technologies that support behavior change in

everyday life. In: CHI’09 proceedings of the 27th international

conference on human factors in computing systems. ACM, New

York

Ferron M, Massa P (2013) Transtheoretical model for designing

technologies supporting an active lifestyle. In: CHItaly’13 pro-

ceedings of the biannual conference of the Italian chapter of

SIGCHI. ACM, New York

62 PA P

Exergames and healthy nutrition joined against obesity

for 1 year: preliminary results at 3 month follow-up

C. Ferraris1, N. L. Pepe1, C. Trentani1, S. Tinelli1, P. Borrelli3,

M. Vandoni2, L. Correale2, E. Ricagno2, E. Codrons2,4,

M. Arpesella2, C. Montomoli3, A. Tagliabue1

1Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic

Science, Human Nutrition and Eating Disorders Research Centre,

University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine & Forensic

Science, LAMA (Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity), CRIAMS,

University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy3Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine & Forensic

Science, Section of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology,

University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy4Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia,

Pavia, Italy

Aim: We hypothesize that the inclusion of exergame improves weight

loss and prevents attrition in slimming treatments. We planned the

present study to compare weight loss and attrition between two

combined treatments with or without the inclusion of exergames in

obese patients.

Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers (25–50 years, both sexes and

BMI 25–40) were recruited and randomized to one of two treatment

condition: Diet Group (DG) and Diet + Exergames Group (DEG).

Physical activity intervention was provided in DEG. An expert in

Adapted Physical Activity established the exercise program for each

volunteer according to his/her physical fitness and attitude among the

different features offered by Wii Fit Plus. The training program was

defined and monitored during 60 min group session every 2 weeks

and the participants were asked to repeat their program at home three

times per week. General physical activity level was controlled with

the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) [1] during

the treatment period in both group.

Results: 80 % of participants completed 3 month period. Mean

weight loss was significantly greater in the DEG (-7.11 %;

p \ 0.05), compared to the DG (-6.74 %; p \ 0.05). These pre-

liminary results can be explained by a significant reduction in energy

intake and increase the level of weekly activity (METs/min/week)

compared to baseline in both groups.

Conclusions: Preliminary results seem to support our hypothesis

regarding the usefulness of including the exergames in slimming treatment.

A more detailed assessment will be available at the end of the study.

ReferenceInternational Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) (2005) IPAQ

Research Committee. http://www.ipaq.ki.se/scoring

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63 PA P

A structured and supervised program of fitwalking:

the short-term therapeutic efficacy on some parameters

in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) sedentary

but able to prolonged walk

C. De Fazio, M. Corigliano, V. Russo, G. Corigliano

Diabetologic Unit A.I.D. ASL NA 1, Naples, Italy

Aim: The therapeutic and preventive efficacy of physical activity

(PA) is EBM but is not properly implement: 35.8 % of T2DM is

sedentary, 34.1 % does little strenuous manual labor, only 26.5 %

performs AP; at the time of diagnosis dedicates time to the nutritional

aspect (74.8 %) and less attention to prescribe PA (18.4 %). Were

evaluated the effects of a structured and supervised program of fit-

walking in the short-term (6 months) on some anthropometric

parameters, cardio-metabolic and physical performance in T2DM,

sedentary but able to prolonged walk.

Method: 20 sports science graduates have joined 40 diabetic-outpa-

tients centers for 6 months to perform the technique of fitwalking in

groups of 20 T2DM (800 people), which carried out sessions of 1 h

for 2–3 times/week. WED questionnaire administration to assess the

main emotional barriers-relations. Scientific data processing is of 7

Italian centers (125 T2DM: 83M; 42F, mean age 61 ± 7 years, BMI

29.7 ± 6.7), with the evaluation of the above parameters:• at time 0 (T0), after 3 (T3) and 6 months (T6): body weight (bw),

BMI, waist circumference (wc), fasting blood glucose (fbg),

HbA1c, resting heart rate (rhr);

• at T0 and T6: total cholesterol (tcol), triglycerides (t), HDL, LDL,

VO2max.

Haematochemical tests: standard methods, HbA1c: HPLC, VO2max

(sub-maximal treadmill or bike ergometer test). Statistical analysis:

mean, DS, ES, Wilcoxon signed-rank test for comparisons within the

single group repeated measures ANOVA.

Results: Significant variations are observed for bw (-1 kg, p 0.05),

wc (-3 cm, p 0.019), fbg (-9 mg/dl, p 0.012), HbA1c (-0.27 %,

p 0.02), rhr (-0.4 bmp, p 0.014) and VO2max (+3 ml/kg/min,

p 0.03), and improvements on the emotional barriers-relations; not

statistically significant changes for the other parameters (BMI, tcol,

HDL, LDL, t).

Conclusion: A structured and supervised program of short-term fit-

walking produces significant improvements of glyco-metabolic

compensation (fbg, HbA1c) anthropometric parameters (bw, wc) and

performance indexes (rhr, VO2max) but not lipid parameters. The

technique of fitwalking, for its easy of application to most of the

T2DM, safety and therapeutic efficacy can be a useful support for an

appropriate prescription.

ReferencesSchellenberg ES, Dryden DM, Vandermeer B, Ha C, Korownyk C

(2013) Lifestyle interventions for patients with and at risk for type

2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med

159(8):543–551

Studio Dawn (2007) Barometer of diabetes and physical activity in

Italy

64 PA P

The effects of four different training programs on

breast cancer patients

V. De Luca1, P. Borrione1,2, F. Quaranta1,2, E. Tranchita1,3,

E. Guerra1,2,4, A. Parisi1,2

1Department of Movement, Human and Sport Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Italy2Italian Federation of Sport Medicine, Italy3School of Specialization of Sport Medicine, La Sapienza University

of Rome, Italy4Department of Cardiology, Polyclinic Casilino of Rome, Italy

Aim: Investigate the effects of four training programs in breast cancer

patients after surgery and therapy. Several studies have demonstrated

that exercise interventions may be appropriate in cancer populations

due to improvements in physical and psychological health, without

causing lymphedema or significant adverse events.

Method: Twenty mastectomized woman 45.61 ± 2.71 surgically

treated with therapeutic treatment concluded, eligible for non com-

petitive sports, volunteered to exercise 3 d/w for 8 weeks, were

randomly assigned to Strength Training (ST), Circuit Training (CT),

Aerobic Training (AT), Pilates Training (PT) or Control Group (CG).

All sessions were preceded by a warm-up and followed by a cool-

down. The ST session was structured with 2 exercises for leg, 1 for

knee flexors, 2 for lower extremities and 2 for upper body. The CT

group performed a workout structured with mixed exercises using

equipment and free weights: 2 exercises for upper body with dumb-

bell, 2 for lower body with barbells, and 1 for the back. The AT group

performed exercise protocols on treadmill, elliptics or cycloergometer

starting from 40 % of the VO2max, and increasing up to 70 % of

VO2max. The PT group has carried a 50 min-lesson performing all

the principal positions of the method, focusing on breathing, posture

and strengthening. In order to evaluate the effect of PA, all patients

were tested for VO2max with Astrand-Ryhming test, for BIA values

using a Handy3000, and the strength was evaluated with FreePower

Sensorize.

Result: The results of the study show that AT, ST, and CT improve

the maximal oxygen consumption more than Pilates. The BIA

parameters improved in different ways. Maximum strength undergoes

major improvements principally with ST and CT. No sensible chan-

ges in patient that did not perform any kind of physical activity was

shown.

Conclusion: Sports therapy, as a medicine, should be dispensed

finding the right balance between workload and intensity always in

relation to the needs of the patient and starting level. Physical activity

should be as individualized as possible. Additional studies should be

made to go further evaluate the efficacy of other training protocols.

ReferencesCheifetz O et al (2010) Effects of physical activity on cancer survival:

a systematic review. Physiother Canada 62:25–34

Bryner et al (1997) The effects of exercise intensity on body

composition, weight loss, and dietary composition in women. J Am

Coll Nutr 16:68–73

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65 PA P

Active sitting: use of dynamic sitting among corporate

employees (a survey)

M. Gervasi1, A. R. Calavalle1, D. Sisti1, S. Senni2,

M. B. L. Rocchi1, S. Zanuso2

1Biomolecular Sciences Department, University ‘‘Carlo Bo’’, Urbino,

Italy2Technogym SpA

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between

the use of Active Sitting (dynamic sitting on a fit ball, AS) and the

number of working hours lost along 3 years: 2011 (before AS use),

2012 and 2013 in a sample of employees. Employees were catego-

rized according to AS use into: regular, discontinuous, former-users

and non-users.

Method: The project involved 309 employees (Technogym SPA) that

decided, or not, to adopt AS during their working hours. Two dif-

ferent questionnaires were distributed to the sample: Questionnaire 1:

anthropometric and lifestyle data; Questionnaire 2: Quebec LBP

Disability Questionnaire.

To determine whether the use of AS was associated with anthropo-

metric variables and/or hours lost to absenteeism, Chi squared or

ANOVA tests were used. In this latter case, some variables were

log10 (x + 1) transformed, in order to meet the assumption of the

homoscedasticity between samples.

Results: The sample was constituted by 202 men (65 %), and 107

women (34 %); mean age = 40 (6.8); BMI = 23.6 (3.3); smok-

ing = 14.2 %; Quebec LBP score = 5.6 (7).

Absenteeism data were analyzed according to the four categories AS

use (regular = 126, discontinuous = 57, former-users = 84, non

users = 41).

In 2011 and 2012 (AS used for 6 months) not statistically

significant evidences were detected among the subjects of the 4

groups in hours lost to absenteeism (p = 0.69) and (p = 0.75)

respectively.

In 2013 (AS in use), the use of AS was significantly associated

with absenteeism (p = 0.02). The number of the hours lost to

absenteeism was higher among non-users and former-users compared

to regular and discontinuous users.

In the regular users we found a significant decrease in hours

lost to absenteeism compared the different periods, in 2013 vs.

2012 and 2011 (5.8 vs. 6.2 and 8.0) and compared to the non-users

also (11.5 vs. 9.3 and 9.5). Voluntary AS adoption was not asso-

ciated with: age; educational level; smoking; BMI and Quebec

LBP score.

Conclusions: The 309 subjects, showed no differences in lost

working hours in 2011 and 2012, highlighting that the sample was

free from a selection bias a priori. In 2013, those who used the AS, for

a year and an half, more or less continuously, showed a reduction in

hours lost to absenteeism compared to those who were former-users

or non-users. In conclusion, the use of AS could be associated with

improved quality of posture at work, which could influence, the

number in hours lost to absenteeism.

66 PA P

Protocol of telematic monitoring to evaluate

the applicability of specific program of physical activity

in a scholar population to reduce obesity

and overweight

L. Grasso, Z. Lazarevic, F. Pigozzi, P. Borrione

Department of Movement, Human and Health Science, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Italy

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness

of a structured program of physical activity developed by specialists,

complied for monitoring of trend for specific parameters as weight,

blood pressure, ECG, SPO2. The study was carried out on, children

attending the primary school, using telematics applications for the

remote monitoring of the results.

Materials: The study population was composed by 52 students of

both sexes attending the primary school. Two groups of students were

identified: Group A, composed by 26 students, submitted to the

specific physical activity and Group B, composed by 26 students,

engaged in a normal school activity. For all two groups specific

parameters were monitored longitudinally: height, body weight, BMI,

blood pressure, oxygen saturation, sports activities, lifestyle habits,

the incidence of infections of the upper airways during the study

period. Both groups were periodically remote monitored using ECG

that was recorded by ‘‘Resting ECG system’’ installed directly on PC

and sent by mail to other PC with the same analysis software.

Results: This study evidenced a normal physical growth of both groups.

The study group showed a decrease in body weight and in mean arterial

pressure, bradicardization, lower incidence of arrhythmias, a minimal

increase of saturation PO2, lower incidence of respiratory infections and

an identical incidence of trauma when compared to the control group.

Conclusion: This study confirmed that the physical activity is an

essential tool for the prevention of overweight/obesity in childhood

population being an important precursor of cardiovascular and met-

abolic disease. In addiction the use of telematics control will allow to

manage/control/monitor the activity in remote with the potential of

immediate interventions.

67 PA P

Influence of a pregnancy bodysuit for the treatment

of lower back pain on metabolic and ventilatory

parameters

A. Q. Lucciola, C. Cortis, A. Rodio

Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University

of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, Cassino, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to clarify how an innovative preg-

nancy bodysuit (ComfortBody�), may affect metabolic and

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ventilatory parameters. This bodysuit reduces thoracolumbar and

lumbosacral angle. These changes ensure a greater hip extension in

late stance phase and improve knee extension during terminal swing

increasing stride length.

Method: After signing an informed consent, 15 pregnant women (age

30.6 ± 3.8 years, weight gain 10.1 ± 2.5 kg) between 24th and 38th

gestation week were included in a single-blind, randomized, placebo-

controlled study. Participants walked 10-min on a level treadmill at a

speed of 0.83 m/s during 3 experimental sessions: familiarization,

wearing the ComfortBody (B) and placebo (P) with a 30-min

recovery in between. Experimental sessions were scheduled on ses-

sions 2 and 3 (B, P) through permuted-block randomization. At the

end of B and P, participants were asked to rate the most comfortable

session. Oxygen consumption (VO2) and pulmonary ventilation (VE)

were measured in standing position at rest and during walking, by

means of a telemetric device (K4b2 Cosmed, Italy). Frequency of low

back pain (LBP) during pregnancy was recorded with a 5-point Likert

scale. After delivery we asked if wearing bodysuit reduced perceived

LBP. Parametric and nonparametric test were used to assess differ-

ences (p \ 0.05).

Results: B and P showed no differences at rest for VO2 (B:

4.2 ± 0.7 ml kg-1 min-1; P: 4.1 ± 0.6 ml kg-1 min-1) and VE (B:

10.3 ± 1.7 L min-1; P: 10.2 ± 1.8 L min-1) and during walking for

VO2 (B: 10.0 ± 1.5 ml kg-1 min-1; P: 9.7 ± 1.0 ml kg-1 min-1)

and VE (19.2 ± 2.6 L min-1; P: 19.2 ± 2.9 L min-1). Most of the

subjects (73 %) indicated B as the most comfortable session. 20 % of

subjects reported ‘‘never’’ as the frequency of LBP, 13.3 % ‘‘rarely’’,

46.7 % ‘‘occasionally’’, 20 % ‘‘frequently’’. 13 of 15 subjects showed

a reduction of perceived LBP after wearing the bodysuit. They also,

stated to perceive greater abdominal and lumbar support.

Conclusion: Despite pregnancy is a physiological condition, preg-

nancy-related LBP is a very common complaint [1]. The use of this

bodysuit improves posture [1] by providing comfort and support, and

by reducing perceived LBP without changes in metabolic and venti-

latory parameters.

ReferencesFederico B et al (2007) Modificazioni della postura in gravidanza.

Riv. It. Ost. Gin 16:707–722

Lucciola AQ et al (2014) Evaluation of spatio-temporal gait

parameters with and without a pregnancy bodysuit. Book of

abstracts of the 19th annual congress of the European College of

Sport Science 566

68 PA P

Physical activity and health in postmenopausal middle-

age women: a preliminary study

L. Mattina, P. R. Brustio1,2, C. Zignin1, M. E. Liubicich1

1SUISM, University of Torino, Torino, Italy2Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy

Aim: Menopausal transition is part of the normal aging process,

nevertheless it may be a critical and vulnerable period for woman life.

Physical activity has been shown to enhance the life quality. The aim

of this study was to assess the relationship between the level of

physical activity and related-physical health in a sample of middle-

age women.

Method: Seventy postmenopausal middle-age women (mean age

M = 56.6 ± 3.84 years; weight M = 63.70 ± 10.42 kg; height

M = 161.4 ± 5.79 cm; body mass index M = 24.45 ± 3.95 kg/m2)

living in Asti participated into the study. The sample drew a ques-

tionnaire of demographic characteristics, the International Physical

Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)—Short Form and the 12-item Short-

Form Health Survey (SF-12; physical item). A Pearson’s product-

moment correlation was run to assess the relationship between IPAQ

and SF-12. Significant level was set p \ 0.05.

Results: The mean menopause age of the sample was

M = 49.5 ± 2.50 years; 65 (92.9 %) women had a natural meno-

pause, 5 (7.1 %) an Artificial Menopause. Metabolic equivalent

(MET) intensity levels were calculated basing on the published for-

mulas. The mean of total MET scores was M = 4,175 ± 3,862 MET-

min/week. Concerning the SF-12 8.6 % women reported an excellent

general physical health, 8.6 % very good, 55.7 % good, 22.9 % fair

and 4.3 % poor. Based on partial correlation coefficients we observed

a direct association between IPAQ and the physical health score at

SF-12 (partial r = 0.244, p \ 0.05).

Conclusion: The results highlighted as the high level of physical

activity was associated with high physical health. The study supported

the idea as it may be important for postmenopausal middle-age

women to engage physical activity for a good physical health.

ReferencesElavsky S (2009) Physical activity, menopause, and quality of life: the

role of affect and self-worth across time. Menopause 16:265–271

Nelson DB et al (2008) Effect of physical activity on menopausal

symptoms among urban women. Med Sci Sports Exerc 40:50–58

Craig CL et al (2003) International physical activity questionnaire:

12-country reliability and validity. Med Sci Sports Exerc

35:1381–1395

69 PA P

Infrastructural aspects of making an active city

and improving physical activity: a case-study

M. Pagliarella, A. Borgogni

Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University

of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy

Aim: The main aim is to study the process of the urban renewal

supposedly finalized to make Cassino an active city thus promoting

physical activity for sport, leisure and commuting.

Method: The PhD study began in January 2014. Currently an in depth

literature review is being carried-out also based on the systematization

of the materials collected during the Intensive Programme Erasmus on

the same topic carried out in May 2014. At the end of this phase, I am

planning to build research tools for administering interviews to decision

makers, stakeholders and citizens. The focus of the research will be on

three main areas: a cycle path used for jogging and walking, the Villa

Comunale, main city park, and the connections between the railway

station/urban centre and the University campus. In the latter, relevant

concerning the mobility for commuting, students, teaching and

administrative staff of the University will be involved. Questionnaires

will be delivered pre and post the expected interventions. Moreover,

town planning perceptive and qualitative surveys will be used.

Result: While the PhD research is in the first year, I can speak about

expected results in terms of criteria to make the highlighted areas and,

at a larger scale, the city of Cassino, more active. Moreover, in case of

implementation of the interventions of rehabilitation complementing

the organisation of the 2016 University World Cross Country

Championship, the connected process of urban renewal will be

included in the study.

Conclusion: The study case of Cassino is remarkable from an in-

frastructural and lifestyles point of view because it is a city totally

rebuilt after the Second World War. Moreover there is a large use of

motorized mobility and a lack of public transportation. Furthermore,

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Cassino is at the boundary between Lazio and Campania Regions;

even if no local data are available, the inactivity rate is very high

considering that, according to ISTAT (2012), Lazio Region presents a

43.8 % of inactive people and Campania Region 57.3 %.

ReferencesEdwards P, Tsouros A (2008) A healthy city is an active city. WHO

Europe

Istat (2012) Indagine annuale ‘‘Aspetti della vita quotidiana’’

70 PA P

Habitual physical activity in adolescents: the role

of aerobic fitness, pleasure, and exertion to exercise

M. Vandoni1,*, E. Codrons1,2,*, P. Sacchi1, L. Correale1,

S. Ottobrini1, Y. Leynaud1, L. Martinelli1, E. Porzio1,

C.F. Buzzachera3

1LAMA (Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity), CRIAMS,

Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic

Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia,

Pavia, Italy3North University of Parana, Londrina, Brazil

* These authors contributed equally to this work

Aim: Most adolescents do not achieve the recommended amount of

physical activity (PA) that are associated with better health outcomes.

The reasons for this phenomenon are unclear, a positive relationship

between habitual PA and aerobic fitness exists in adults, although

studies in adolescents have given conflicting results. Therefore, the aim

of this study was to examine the relationship between amount of daily

PA and aerobic fitness in adolescents. However, studies have shown that

feelings of pleasure and exertion are associated with future PA partic-

ipation, regardless of aerobic fitness. Thus, the secondary aim of this

study was to examine the relationship between habitual PA, affective

valence, and perceived exertion during exercise in adolescents.

Method: Thirty high school adolescents (24 boys and 7 girls), aged

18.3 ± 1.1 years, completed an orientation trial and a maximal,

graded treadmill test to determine maximal oxygen consumption

(VO2max). Physiological (VO2, measured by Fitmate, Cosmed�, Italy;

and HR, measured by RS800, Polar, Finland) responses were con-

tinuously recorded throughout the test. The exertional (measured by

6–20 Borg RPE Scale) and affective (measured by Feeling Scale)

responses were recorded every stage throughout the test. Habitual PA

was measured by accelerometers (Actiheart, Minicoutter�, USA),

worn around the waist for 5 days, including at least one weekend day.

The accelerometer captures minute-by-minute activity counts that

were collapsed into minutes spent in sedentary, light, moderate, and

vigorous intensity activity. A linear regression was performed with

mean counts of PA as independent variable, and aerobic fitness,

affective valence, and perceived exertion to maximal exercise as

dependent variables. A significance level of p \ 0.05 was chosen.

Results: Linear regression indicated no relationship between daily PA

variables and aerobic fitness, with the exception of a significant

relationship for vigorous activity (r = 0.33, p \ 0.05). None of the

daily PA variables were related to exertional and affective responses

to exercise, with exception of a significant relationship for affective

valence at maximal exercise (r = 0.36, p \ 0.05).

Conclusion: In this population, vigorous PA was related, at least in

part, to aerobic fitness and affective valence to exercise. A better

aerobic fitness and more positive affective responses to exercise are

directly related to the amount of daily vigorous PA.

MOVEMENT LEARNING,PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICALDEVELOPMENT AND COACHING

71 ML O

Battery of Questionnaires to study youth’s motivations,

barriers and preferences for physical activity

M. Lanza1, I. Salvadori2, M. Cimas3

1Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy2Master in Preventive and Adapted Physical Activity, University

of Verona3Grado en Ciencias de la Actividad Fısica y del Deporte, Universidad

de A Coruna UDC

Aim: The aims of the search are (1) verify the practicability of a

battery of questionnaires that study barriers and motivation for

physical activities in youths; (2) identify the kinds of Physical

activities that poorly active youths prefers.

Method: More than 500 students (14–21 years) have compiled a

battery of questionnaires divided into three parts that investigate:

(a) personal characteristics; (b) perception of barriers and motiva-

tions for physical activities through 48 items (BRAFS) at which

students express their level of agreement (3 = Fully agree, … -

3 = strongly disagree); (c) youth’s lifestyle (sedentary, poorly

active, active, strongly active), the percentage of time that each

students would be willing to devote at six categories of physical

activities.

Results: Questionnaires was correctly compiled, in 20/35 min, from

more than 95 % of participants. The preliminary study shows that

correlation among 48 BRAFS items is significant (p \ 0.05) in

about half of cases but only for two couples it is higher than 0.7

(Items 4.1–4.2 r = 0.73; Items 12.1–12.2 r = 0.76). Until today four

items were studied to verify if they are able to identify differences

in barriers and motivations between poorly active and active stu-

dents: 2.1—the feeling of psychological well-being that I get from

my physical activity motivates me to practice it (M = 1.61 ± 1.23);

13.2—physical activity allow me to obtain economical benefits

(M = -1.02 ± 1.66); 1.3—my knowledge on how to carry out

physical activities promotes my practice (M = 1.50 ± 1.08); 9.3—

organization and time for my study (or work) don’t limit my

physical activity (M = 0.06 ± 1.80). Items 1.3, 2.1 and 9.3 shows

different results for poorly-active and active youth (p \ 0.05).

Poorly active youths seems to prefer to be involved more time in

Exercise (M = 29.06 % ± 16.75), Locomotion of daily life

(M = 20.06 % ± 16.13) and Recreational Physical Activities

(M = 19.36 % ± 12.55) rather than in Sport (M = 13.58 % ±

13.99), Physical Education (M = 9.24 % ± 9.48) and Hand Works

(M = 8.71 % ± 8.89).

Conclusion: Preliminary results seem to demonstrate that battery of

questionnaires is practicable. In particular BRAFS questionnaire

allow detecting a large amount of physical activity’s determinants

without significant overlaps. The knowledge of preferences in youth’s

physical activity could help Physical Educators and Researchers to

better define physical activities for specific groups like poorly active

or active youths.

ReferencesBauman AE (2012)

Biddle SJH (2008)

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72 ML OP

Physical activities and sport in mental health: proposal

for practice

A. Benevento1, G. Raiola2

1Sciences and Tecniques of Sport, University of Salerno, Fisciano,

Italy2Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: A study previously published on the occasion of the scientific

meeting of the International Conference on Sports Science and Dis-

ability held in Naples at the University Naval February 15, 2014, in

the field of physical education and physical activity in health Menale,

determined that ‘‘It makes appropriate to the study of a practice for

the effective implementation of these activities and connectable to an

objective evaluation tool. This work illustrates the practice used for a

pilot project for a period of 4 months, and analyzes the results with

validated test administered to the experimental group and the control

group.

Method: Analysis of practices used. Administering tests validated

(FPS, POMS, tests Rockfort, measurement BMI) to an experimental

group and a control group. They were also used additional assessment

instruments calibrated for the specific use. Graphical representation of

the data obtained.

Results: The analysis of the data obtained shows an improvement of the

patients in the experimental group compared with those of the control

group. The positive changes more ‘relevant were obtained after the first

month of activity and then confirmed during the remainder of the trial.

Conclusion: The data collected in this project indicate that the

implementation of the proposed practice offers tangible results, with

significant improvements already achieved in the first month. The

result of this study encourages the creation of an experimental project

in which they are involved more structures and more patients in order

to verify the effectiveness with the increase of the variables. The

ultimate goal is to create a clear and concrete practices that can

provide positive results and comparable.

ReferencesCarozza P (2003) La riabilitazione psichiatrica nei Centri Diurni.

Aspetti clinici e organizzativi. Ed. F.Angeli

Giuliani A, Micacchi G, Valenti M (2005) L’Attivita Motoria nei

servizi di salute mentale. It J Sport Sci

73 ML OP

Importance of sport and physical activity on social

behavior in people with intellectual disabilities

E. Iuliano1, G. Fiorilli1, G. Aquino1, A. di Cagno2, G. Calcagnile3,

G. Calcagno1

1Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Italy2Department of Health Sciences, Foro Italico Rome, Italy3Special Olympics Molise

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in social

behavior between subjects with intellectual disabilities who practice

sports activities compared to subjects, with the same intellectual

disabilities, who are not practicing sports.

Method: For this study 175 subjects of both genders, with Down

syndrome and moderate cognitive delay were recruited; 105 athletes

as sportive group (age 17.5 ± 2.2) and 70 non-athletes as control

group (aged 17.3 ± 2.4). Eligible participants were from different

Italian sportive associations competing in the Special Olympics

games (for the sportive group) and from different Italian associations

for disables (for non-sportive group). To evaluate behavioral prob-

lems a validated self-report questionnaire was administered: Strengths

and Difficulties Questionnaires (SDQ). The questionnaire was com-

posed by 25 items, concerning behavioral problems relative to 5

dimensions, such as Emotional symptoms (5 items), Conduct prob-

lems (5 items), Hyperactivity/inattention symptoms (5 items), Peer

relationship problems (5 items) and Pro-social behavior (5 items). The

questionnaire also assigns 3 multi-dimensional scores: Global score

(20 items), Internalizing problems score (10 items) and Externalizing

problems score (10 items).

Results: The analysis of variance showed significant differences

between the 2 groups in all the 5 dimensions of the SDQ and in all the

3 multi-dimensional scores, with better scores for sportive group than

non-sportive group.

Conclusion: Sport and physical activity can be considered an

important mean to develop social behavior in subjects with intellec-

tual disability.

ReferencesDykens EM et al (1996) Effects of Special Olympics International on

social competence in persons with mental retardation. J Am Acad

Child Adolesc Psychiatry 35(2):223–229

Goodman A et al (2010) When to use broader internalizing and

externalizing subscales instead of the hypothesized five subscales

on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ): data from

British parents, teachers and children. J Abnormal Child Psychol

38:1179–1191

74 ML OP

Electrocortical responses in volunteers watching movies

including the execution of complex motor gestures

M. Ivaldi1, G. Cugliari2, E. Fiorenti1, A. Rambaudi3, A. Rainoldi4

1S.U.I.S.M. University of Turin, Turin, Italy2Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, Medical Statistics

and Genomics Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy3Department of Informatics, University of Torin, Italy4Department of Medical Sciences, S.U.I.S.M., University of Turin,

Turin, Italy

Aim: EEG registration during the execution of a movement is a

difficult task because of the numerous artifacts generated by the

movement itself. The analysis of electrocortical activity during motor

imagery or while watching an action made by an athlete can be more

easily carried out. According to the theory of mirror neurons, in fact,

there is an overlapping in some cortical activation during the exe-

cution of a motor gesture and during the observation of the same

gesture made with the same purpose by another person. The analysis

of electrocortical activity as a result of visual stimuli may reveal a

statistically significant difference in signals of expert subjects, com-

pared to non-experts, while watching a movie commensurate to the

field of expertise.

Method: Fourteen volunteers, aged 18–33 (mean age = 23 ± 4 -

years), 7 belonging to the expert group (high experience in the field of

acrobatic gymnastics) and 7 to the control one, took part in the study;

EEG was recorded using a prototype of a wireless amplifier (OT Bioe-

lettronica, Italia) during the vision of 10 movies containing executions of

specific technical gestures of acrobatic gymnastics (5 containing evident

technical errors and falls and 5 without errors or falls).

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Results: No statistically significant differences were found between

groups at baseline in the analyzed spectrum (0–11 Hz). Statistically

significant difference (p \ 0.05) emerges in EEG power spectrum in

Delta and partially in Alpha bands especially in frontal and central

electrodes on the right side of the head (F4 and C4) ad occipitals (O1

and O2).

Conclusion: The statistically significant differences between expert

and controls during the vision of complex motor gestures could

indicate a difference in the brain activity during the recognition of

complex motor programs. Although the results confirm what is

reported in the literature specifically for the Delta band, this does not

occur with respect to the Alpha band. These findings confirm the

relationship between EEG activity and vision of specific motor ges-

tures and extend the knowledge on the electrocortical response to

visual stimuli emphasizing the difference between experienced and

inexperienced subjects, relative to the field analyzed.

ReferenceBabiloni C et al (2002) Human cortical electroencephalography

(EEG) rhythms during the observation of simple aimless move-

ments: a high-resolution EEG study. Neuroimage 17.2:559–572

75 ML OP

Learning by observation: how to improve the cognitive-

motor abilities

S. Orru1,2, A. Accarino1, F. Foti3,4, D. Martone1,2, E. Imperlini1,2,

L. Petrosini3,4, P. Buono1,2, L. Mandolesi1,4

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, s.c.a r.l., Naples, Italy3Department of Psychology, University of Rome ‘‘La Sapienza’’,

Rome, Italy4IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy

Aim: Experimental studies have shown that it is possible to improve

navigation abilities by observation of the correct procedure of

exploration. Learning by observation is linked to the activation of the

mirror system, a neural network that comes into play when we per-

form or observe a particular motor act characterized by a purpose and

belonging to our motor experience. In this scenario we analyzed

whether it is possible to enhance spatial abilities in preschool children

by observation of motor procedures.

Method: 30 typically developing children (aged 4–5 years) took part

to the study by performing the radial arm maze (RAM), a highly

ecological task that investigates the different facets of spatial memory

including procedural components. All parents gave written informed

consent.

For the assessment of the development, anthropometric measurements

were collected; moreover, assessments included also brain laterali-

zation tests (to evaluate the half-brain dominance) and motor skills.

The assessment of cognitive development was carried out through

qualitative analysis of the drawing of the human figure.

The children were randomly divided into three experimental groups:

Group I: 10 children that, before performing the RAM, observed

trainer solving the maze using a rigidly structured procedure (45�angles);

Group II: 10 children that, before performing the RAM, observed

trainer solving the maze using a seemingly illogical procedure;

Group III: 10 children that performed directly RAM following

exclusively verbal instructions.

Results: Among the parameters analyzed, we underline: total time,

number of errors, spatial span and 45� angles.

The data obtained showed that Group I, who had observed a struc-

tured procedure, made less errors (p \ 0.05) than the other two

groups and had a greater awareness of the task (declarative knowl-

edge). Group II made some errors in the first trial but, in general, they

performed better in all analyzed parameters than Group III who did

not receive any visual help.

Conclusion: The present findings suggest how important is both to

observe a motor action before performing it and also to understand the

purpose of the observed action in the development of new motor

procedures.

ReferencesFadiga L et al (1995) J Neurophysiol 73:2608–2611

Leggio MG et al (2000) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 97:2320–2325

Mandolesi L et al (2009) Int J Dev Neurosci 27:789–797

76 ML OP

Victimization and sports participation

among outpatient obese children and adolescents

P. Tortorelli1, V. Gallarato1, E. Mozzillo1,2, E. Tramontano1,

C. Buongiovanni2, O. D’Amico2, M. Sticco2, A. Franzese2,

G. Valerio1

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples

‘‘Federico II’’, Italy

Aim: To investigate the association between weight status and verbal

or relational victimization, and the influence on sports participation in

children and adolescents.

Method: The study sample was represented by 163 children/adoles-

cents with primary obesity (BMI standard deviation score (SDS)

C1.64) consecutively recruited from the outpatient clinic of the

Department of Translational Medical Science, Federico II University

of Naples, and 240 children/adolescents (165 normal weight, BMI-

SDS between -1.63 and 1.03; 54 overweight-BMI-SDS between 1.04

and 1.63) recruited from a primary and a middle school in Naples.

Groups were comparable for age and gender distribution. Verbal and

relational victimization (teasing about physical aspect; teasing for

other reasons; exclusion from sports activities) were assessed through

a modified version of the Olweus questionnaire. Perceived difficulties

with physical tasks were assessed using a structured questionnaire

(Impact of Weight on Quality-of-Life-Adolescents).

Results: Obese participants were more frequently involved in the

three forms of victimization than normal-weight and overweight

participants (p \ 0.001). In particular teasing about physical aspect

(35.8 %) was the most frequent form reported by obese participants,

followed by teasing for other reasons (19.1 %) or exclusion from

sports activities (8.6 %). A significant correlation was found between

teasing about physical aspect and perceived difficulty with physical

tasks in obese participants (p \ 0.001). Among the teased obese

participants, 84.6 % stated no sports participation, while 15.4 % was

involved in an individual sport (p = 0.03). Sixty-three percent of

obese participants felt that weight loss could have improved social

relationships with their peers.

Conclusion: Obese children and adolescents are at risk of teasing

about physical aspect, which may contribute to social isolation, par-

ticularly in sports activities. Coaches and physical education teachers

should be made aware about these issues, in order to prevent vic-

timization and foster better self-esteem in obese children through the

beneficial effects of physical activity.

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ReferencesPuhl RM et al (2013) Strategies to address weight-based victimiza-

tion: youths’ preferred support interventions from classmates,

teachers, and parents. J Youth Adolesc 42:315–327

Puhl RM et al (2013) Weight-based victimization: a comprehensive

assessment of weight-loss treatment-seeking youth. Pediatrics 131:e1–e9

77 ML OP

Spatiotemporal and kinematic gait parameters

of parkinsonian patients in off and on state

with and without Mild Cognitive Impairment: a motion

analysis study

P. Varriale1,2, R. Rucco1,2, V. Agosti1,2, F. Jacini1,2, C. Vitale1,2,

S. Rombetto3, F. Corato4, G. Sorrentino1,2

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Istituto di Diagnosi e Cura Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy3Cibernetic Institute ‘‘E. Caianiello’’, CNR, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy4Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of our study was to test the effect of a dual-task

condition (L-Dopa) on spatiotemporal and kinematic gait parameters

in a population of patients affected by Parkinson disease (PD) with

and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Method: Patients with clinical, neuropsychological and instrumental

diagnosis of PD were enrolled. Patients were classified as MCI+

(n = 15) if they had both a cognitive deficit not causing a significant

functional decline and dysfunction in at least 1one cognitive domain

as confirmed by a consistent pattern of impairment in the specific

neuropsychological tests, otherwise they were classified as MCI-

(n = 14).

Using a motion analysis system, we analyzed spatiotemporal and

kinematic parameters in two different condition: (1) a normal gait

(walking at self-paced speed) and (2) a cognitive dual-task (walking

while serially subtracting 7 s starting from 100) in off and on state.

Before the trials, all participants were instructed to walk at a normal

pace at their usual speed.

The following gait parameters were analyzed: speed, stride width,

stride length, cycle time, step length, step time, double limb support

time (DLS), cadence, stance time, swing time, double/single limb

support time ratio (DLS/SLS). Moreover, we analyzed the range of

motion (RoM) on the sagittal plane of the thigh (T), knee (K), and ankle

(A) joints, normalized for the 100 % of the gait cycle calculating the Ds

value as the difference between two consecutive peaks in the gait cycle.

Results: Our results showed significant differences only during the

cognitive dual task, in off state, in the following parameters: DLS/

SLS (p = 0.03), AD3 (p = 0.05), AD4 (p = 0.05), KD3 (p = 0.04)

and KD4 (p = 0.02).

Conclusion: The significative differences of the spatiotemporal and

kinematic parameters in OFF-state as compared to ON-state show that

L-dopa is able to improve the gait in PD patients affecting not only

several spatio-temporal parameters but also the amplitude of the

movement of both ankle and knee. Moreover the cognitive dual task

seems to be a valid instrument to evaluate the involvement of exec-

utive functions in automatic, highly conserved, motor functions such

as gait.

ReferenceDomellof ME, Elgh E, Forsgren L (2011) The relation between

cognition and motor dysfunction in drug-naive newly diagnosed

patients with Parkinson’s disease. Mov Disord 26:2183–2189

78 ML OP

Motivational processes and sport volunteering

during Winter Universiade Trentino 2013

F. Vitali1, A. Bellutti2, C. Trentin1, F. Schena1

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Italy2Winter Universiade Trentino 2013 Organising Committee

Aim: Volunteering is a key component of sport system, which creates

economic and social value, producing benefits for volunteers them-

selves, organizations involved, and communities they volunteer in.

This is particularly true for major sport events. Although motives of

sport and event volunteers has been examined, little is known about

the motives of repeat volunteers and dimensions which may foster

volunteer retention, such as volunteer job satisfaction and resilience.

This study examines motivations, job satisfaction, and resilience of

volunteers to identify more effective retention strategies for

organizers.

Method: Participants were 630 volunteers at Winter Universiade

Trentino 2013 (F = 57.5 %; aged 15–70 years, M = 30.6 ± 14.3)

who rated a web short version of Special Event Volunteer Motivation

Scale, the Volunteer Job Satisfaction Scale, a short version of Con-

nor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and ten statements used in a previous

study to investigate implications and future intentions of experience

as a volunteer.

Results: Volunteer job satisfaction was directly related to resilience

(r = 0.32, p \ 0.01), and to willingness to volunteer for another

major sport event (r = 0.51, p \ 0.01). Regression analysis results

showed that motivations linked to solidary incentives (e.g. social

interaction, group identification, networking) enhance interest in sport

(b = 0.250, p \ 0.01), while motivations referred to purposive

incentives (e.g. doing something useful to the community and the

event) foster willingness to volunteer for another major sport event

(b = 0.205, p \ 0.01).

Conclusion: Perceiving event volunteering as a satisfying and pur-

posive experience may consolidate not only interest in sport, but also

willingness to volunteer for another major sports event. This con-

clusion needs to be capitalized upon to promote specific sports

participation and volunteering.

ReferencesDownward et al (2006) The sports development potential of sports

event volunteering: insights from the XVII Manchester Common-

wealth Games. Eur Sport Manag Q 6:333–351

Georgiadis T et al (2006) Motivation and volunteer participation in

the ‘‘Athens 2004’’ Olympic Games. Sport Manag Int J 2:65–89

Surujlal J et al (2008) Volunteers’ perceptions of benefits derived

from volunteering: an empirical study. South Afr J Res Sport Phys

Educ Recreat 30:105–116

79 ML P

The effects of non-verbal communication of the coach

A. Veloce, M. T. Cattaneo, F. Scamardella, D. Carfora

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The research focuses on the analysis of different types of

behaviors related to non-verbal communication. In particular, it

examines the role of the coach and his functions, then it briefly

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S35

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analyzes leadership style, alighting on the communicational process

and the principal forms and functions of non-verbal communication.

Communication between the coach and his football players is a rel-

ative field of primary importance: communication is an ability that

can be trained.

Method: This survey was achieved through a questionnaire made up

of 8 questions simulating various situations occurring in a match.

They were submitted to a sample of 72 trainers, among there were

technicians senior team and technical teams of youth. The first section

of the questionnaire investigates certain situations occurring before

the match. On the other hand, the second part focuses on the very

moments of the game and on the half-time. The last questions inquire

about the conclusion of the match: coaches are asked about the

reactions they might have at the end of the competition.

Results: According to the result of the survey, it has been noticed that

football coaches give relevant importance to non-verbal communi-

cation: 81 % of them declared to make use of different forms of non-

verbal communication and most of the time they do intentionally,

with the specific purpose of sending a message to their own team.

Only 7 % admitted to do it without a precise motivation. Thanks to

their answers it has been pointed out that youth coaches are more

disposed to send specific messages, intended to spread a sense of calm

and trust to their players.

Conclusion: The main purpose of this study was to show how foot-

ball coaches employ various forms of non-verbal communication

during different phases of the match. We can assert that communi-

cational skills represent an essential matter for a trainer, since they

can make the difference between a good coach and a very Special

One.

ReferencesArgyle M (2007) Il corpo e il suo linguaggio. Studio sulla

comunicazione non verbale. Zanichelli, Bologna

Bass B (2008) The Bass handbook of leadership: theory, research and

managerial application, 4th edn. The Free Press Editor, New York

Cox RH (2007) Sport psychology, 7th edn. McGraw Hill, New York

80 ML P

Physical education + plus: physical activity lesson

breaking for improve life skills in inclusive school

S. Cazzoli1, S. Gatto2

1University of Torino, Adjunct Professor, Torino, Italy2Master in Education Science for Primary School, Torino, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze physical activity lesson

breaking for improve life skills in inclusive school. The ‘‘coping of

stress’’ and ‘‘coping of emotions’’ era Life skills as abilities for

adaptive and positive behaviour, that enable individuals to deal

effectively with demand and challenges of everyday life (WHO,

1997). Physical Activity (PA) breaking every day (+plus two Physical

Education-PE 2 h weekly) improved the level of concentration in the

learning school setting and the positive classroom climate.

Method: 24 students national primary school of Torino (aged

9–10 years) were involved in 8 week Yoga training break every day

(March–April 2014). Typology of activity: physical activity (yoga

position, visualisation, diaphragmatic breathing, listening nature

sound); personal perception and self-awareness of children from the

experience (narrative storytelling, design, auto-evaluation). The

concentration was investigated by questionnaire (8 questions).

Results: Data key questions in the questionnaire: (1) after interrup-

tion of the study the students resume their study smoothly 33.3 %

(before training bt), 50 % (after training-at); (2) maintain the con-

centration for most of the lesson 16.6 % (bt), 45.85 % (at); (3) do not

understand the explanation 75 % (bt), 45 % (at); (4) while studies

people speaking near you and you manage to isolate yourself to study

29.16 % (bt), 50 % (at); (5) while studies people stop after you can

immediately resume concentration on the subject of the study 37.5 %

(bt), 54.16 % (at).

Conclusion: After data analysis we can say that the physical activity

lesson breaking improved the general level of concentration in the

sample. The positive data suggest inserting breaks of physical activity

alternating activity class to improve concentration and facilitate

learning. The positive data have also been detected in 4 subjects with

certified specific learning disorders. This was a preliminary study that

requires further study and subsequent investigations on larger sample.

ReferencesDi Nuovo (2009) Attenzione e concentrazione, Erickson Trento

WHO (1997) Life skills education for children and adolescents in

school. Programme on mental health World Health Organization

81 ML P

The Body Worlds Exhibition: an example of health

education through a critical-reflective approach

A. Cunti, S. Bellantonio, A. Priore

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: Body Worlds is an informative scientific exhibition which

displays human anatomical specimens that have been conserved

using plastination. The aim is obtain socio-demographic informa-

tion, habits and lifestyles to identify the target visitors and to

explore the reasons of the visit, the perceived objectives, the

reactions in order to propose a critical reflection on its educational

implications.

Method: Two questionnaires were used to obtaining socio-demo-

graphic information and to revealing habits and lifestyles in order to

identify the target visitors in Naples. Participants are 407 (F = 257,

M = 150).

Results: The results show that the visitors lead already a fairly

healthy lifestyle, respond positively to the exhibition and after the

visit declare their intention of improve his lifestyle (29.48 % improve

diet, and 29.23 % start or increase physical activity). The results

clearly show that the exhibition attracts a particular type of audience,

already inclined to sufficiently healthy lifestyles. Exhibitions wishing

to encourage a process of change must take into account the com-

plexity of the interaction between the artistic and perceptional

dimension, the cognitive dimension and the emotional and identifi-

cation dimension.

Conclusion: Results show that it has been accepted by visitors,

interested to learn more about the functioning of the human body, and

push us even to think that the behavior change, which visitors claim to

achieve through an improved lifestyle passes through a deepening of

self-knowledge. Emerges the importance to create educational

opportunities that guide the individual’s willingness to pursue healthy

choices. The promotion of healthy lifestyles becomes effective if

knowledge transmission is included in a wide educational process,

that aims to empower individuals through development of critical and

self-reflexive capabilities. Focusing the educational value of the

museum experience emerges the necessity to put in relationship the

body exposed and the visitor’s body, through an identification

process.

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ReferencesBurns L (2007) Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS: selling

beautiful education. Am J Bioethics 7(4):12–23

Hooper-Greenhill E (2013) Museum and their visitors. London,

Routledge

von Hagens G (2005) On gruesome corpses, gestalt plastinates and

mandatory internment. In: von Hagens G (ed) BODY WORLDS:

the anatomical exhibition of real human bodies. Institute for

Plastination, Heidelberg

82 ML P

Comparison of motivational and psychological aspects

between professional martial artists and amateurs

athletes

M. D’Angelo1,2, M. Benzi2, M. Valenti2, R. Di Giminiani2,

M. G. Vinciguerra2, F. Masedu2, S. Tamorri2

1Beijing Sports’ University2Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila

Aim: The primary aim of this study consisted in comparing profes-

sional martial artists and amateurs of different sports according to

motivational and psychological aspects. This subject has been chosen

because of the recognized importance of the emotional and affective

dimensions within martial arts.

Method: 80 athletes were selected. The sample was divided into 40

professional martial artists and 40 amateurs athletes of different dis-

ciplines. In order to measure the motivational and psychological

dimensions two validated questionnaires were administered: the

SMS28 (Sport Motivation Scale) and the IPPS48 (Psychological

Inventory of Sportive Performance) along with a final interview. A

correlation analysis, adjusted for multiple testing, was carried out,

using an a level which has been set at 5 %. Group profiles, stratified

by gender, according to the psychological and motivational ques-

tionnaires were compared using a Hotelling T2 test. Eventually, after

the normal distributional hypothesis check, the magnitude of the items

coming from questionnaires was assessed exploiting a multivariate

regression model.

Results: The correlation analysis showed high correlation coeffi-

cients. We point out a correlation of -0.62 between lack of

concentration and self-esteem and of 0.58 between lack of concen-

tration and preoccupations within amateurs and 0.48 for the martial

artists. Likewise we mention a correlation of -0.53 between absence

of motivation and one of the three intrinsic motivations. The Ho-

telling T2 test was statistically significant in both groups, suggesting a

probable effect of the practice of martial arts on one o more items of

the used questionnaires getting for IPPS48 p = 0.00, and for SMS28

p = 0.00. Non statistically significant effect was detected in IPPS48

for the item preparation for the competition (p = 0.40) and in SMS28

for one the three external motivations (p = 0.10).

Conclusion: We observed in the martial artists’ group, referring to

IPPS48, a higher self-esteem, self-talk practice and a lower lack of

concentration compared to the opposite results of the amateurs. For

the SMS28 questionnaires we observed that the martial artists’

group reported on average higher scores for all the three types of

the intrinsic motivational aspect. We observed a gender dependence

of both psychological and motivational profiles in the amateurs

group.

ReferencesKawabata M, Mallett CJ (2013) Examining discriminant validity

issues of the Sport Motivation Scale-6. J Sports Sci 31(2):173–180

Lu FJ, Hsu EY, Wang JM, Huang MY, Chang JN, Wang CH (2010)

Exercisers’ identities and exercise dependence: the mediating

effect of exercise commitment. Percept Mot Skills 115(2):618–631

83 ML P

New comprehensive technical methods in youth

volleyball

M. Vernet1, C. Mina2, F. A. Faure Rolland1

1Scuola Universitaria Interfacolta in Scienze Motorie (SUISM),

University of Torino, Italy2Union Volley Pinerolo, Italy

Aim: The motor image (IM) and the observation of motor action

(AO), if adequately combined, could have a positive effect on the

following automatic imitation of the same action and they could be

utilized for the motor activity learning process. For individuals who

have difficulties with the motor representation the AO as an aim could

be a better strategy. For the learning of a complex motor action the

AO seems to produce better effects than working on the IM, or at least

in the initial learning phase.

Method: For 8 weeks 28 girls (age 10 ± 1), who regularly train

twice a week, have integrated their activity with the observation of

motor actions sports gestures involving volleyball. The girls, divided

into two homogeneous groups (A-B) (Test U Mann–Whitney, a 0.05),

have performed together the typical training sessions (90’); after the

warm-up (10’) it has been proposed some technique videos

(2 9 5’AO 30’ intervals) differentiated for group (A: bagher; B: set).

It has been done an evaluation based on execution and technique

(PRE-POST) in simple exercises of bagher (Ba) and set (Se) which

have been codified and filmed. The evaluation has been quantified in

an appositely created report (range 3/10 ± 0.5).

Result: In the PRE evaluation of both technical gestures, Group A

(Ba: 7.5 ± 1.0; Se: 7.1 ± 0.9) happens to be averagely higher than

group B (Ba: 7.4 ± 0.9; Se: 6.7 ± 1.0); the POST evaluation of

Group A (Ba: 7.8 ± 0.7; Se: 7.3 ± 0.9) and B (Ba: 8.0 ± 0.7; Se:

7.3 ± 0.9) are equivalent for Se whereas Ba is higher in Group B.

The % improvement found between PRE and POST in both A (Ba:

4.6 %; Se: 2.9 %) and B (Ba: 8.0 %; Se: 9.0 %) is always higher than

the technical gesture pertinent to AO.

Conclusion: The analysis (Test T Wilcoxon, a 0.05) on the evalua-

tion of technical efficiency seems to confirm how the observation of

the action (AO) could have determined higher learning levels in the

technical gesture observed; only Group B could show to have

obtained significant improvement even in the not observed technical

gesture.

ReferencesEaves DL et al (2014) Motor imagery during action observation

modulates automatic imitation effects in rhythmical actions. Front

Hum Neur 8:28

Gatti R et al (2013) Action observation versus motor imagery in

learning a complex motor task: a short review of literature and a

kinematics study. Neur Lett 540:37–42

Kim J et al (2014) Differences in brain waves of normal persons and

stroke patients during action observation and motor imagery.

J Phys Ther Sci 26(2):215–218

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84 ML P

Behavioral differences of sled towing in track

and field’s athletes

L. Chirio1, M. Fantoni2, F. A. Faure Rolland1

1S.U.I.S.M. (Scuola Universitaria Interfacolta in Scienze Motorie),

University of Turin, Italy2Technical Sector FIDAL Piemonte, Italy

Aim: With this work we wanted to deeply study the aspects con-

nected with the use sled towing in two groups of young athletes of

different genders who practice speed disciplines in track and field.

Like already expressed in other studies ‘‘The use of the towing affects

the extent of stride length more than the stride frequency’’. Although

this training technique appears to be broadly studied in the sport

bibliography, the several authors do not show particular indications

about the behavioral differences among subjects of the two genders.

Method: Two groups of 8 athletes of different genders who practice

track and field (F: age 16 ± 1, BW 56.1 ± 6.4 kg; M: age 17 ± 1,

BW 64.8 ± 6.8 kg) completed some sprint runs on a 30 m distance.

The first run (A) was completed without any additional weights, the

next ones were completed with progressively increased weight (B:

10.0 kg; C: 12.5 kg; D: 17.5 kg; E: 20.0 kg). It was calculated for all

athletes and each group the velocity (V), the stride length (L) and the

frequency (F). The data obtained was compared with the weight

towed which value is expressed in % of the average body weight of

the examined athletes and group (%BW charge).

Results: In both groups the decreasing % velocity (F.r: 0.983; M.r:

0.987) of the initial chronometric performance, the reducing % of the

stride length (F.r: 0.945; M.r: 0.919) result to be highly correlated

(Test Pearson) to the increment of the %BW charge; low the %F

correlation (F.r: 0.653; M.r: 0.601).

Conclusion: The analysis conducted (Test Wilcoxon Mann Whitney a0.05; Test T Wilcoxon a 0.05) confirm how the variations of the inves-

tigated parameters (%V; %L; %F) are not statistically different between

the male and the female group when the weight towed is evaluated with

the % BW charge Defining the amount of weight to tow in relation to the

% of the body weight could be a useful indication in order to define the

sled towing weights during training for the two genders.

ReferencesAlcaraz PE, Palao JM, Elvira JLL (2009) Determining the optimal

load for resisted sprint training with sled towing. J Strength Cond

Res 23(2):480–485

Chirio L, Faure Rolland FA (2011) A study on the sprint’s effects

with sled towing among women track-and-field athletes. J Sports

Med Phys Fitness 51:55

Lochie RG, Murphy AJ, Spinks CD (2003) Effects of resisted sled

towing on sprint kinematics in field-sport athletes. J Strength Cond

Res 17:760–767

85 ML P

The role of the teacher of physical education

in integrative-inclusive processes in sports

F. Giardiello, D. Tafuri, G. Raiola

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: It regards the misunderstanding on integration process and

inclusion one. So is to check if the teachers in physical education

know the inclusion process and integration applied on sport sciences.

Furthermore, also how it is possible for them to achieve these two

aspects in physical education and sport in school contexts.

Method: It was used a questionnaire administered to 70 physical

education teachers and consists of the following questions:

Integration and inclusion are the same thing? Integration and inclu-

sion in team sports are the same thing? Integration for team sports is

achieved with the right to facilitate peer competition or the right to

participation of all? The realization of the right to participation by all

is done along the research lines of the cognitive theory or the eco-

logical-dynamic one?

Results: Replies were as follows:

Question 1: 2.85 % yes, 97.14 % no.

Question 2: 5.71 % yes, 88, not 57 %, 5.71 % did not answer.

Question 3: 24.28 % ‘‘to peer competition,’’ the 74.28 % ‘‘to the

participation of everyone,’’ 1, 42 % did not answer.

Question 4: 2.85 % ‘‘cognitive’’, the 91.42 % ecological-dynamic,

the 5.71 % did not respond.

Conclusion: The physical education teachers know that integration

and inclusion are two different process, and they know that it is

possible to aim these two process in physical education and sport in

school contexts. Among them, the most important is to facilitate the

integration and inclusion of disabled-people in any group activities,

especially in sports so, it has to open a new way at all and offer

everyone the opportunity to participate. It is useful to deep some

reflection on mission of sport and physical education about compe-

tition and participation.

ReferencesRaiola G (2012) Motor learning and didactics into physical education

and sport documents in middle school-first cycle of education in

Italy. J Phys Educ Sport 12:157–163

Di Tore P A, Raiola G (2012) Case study on physical education and

sport in Naples. Mediterr J Soc Sci 3:479–484. doi:10.5901/mjss

2012.v3n1p.479

Raiola G, Tafuri D, Gomez Paloma F (2014) Physical activity and

sport skills and its relation to mind theory on motor control, Sport

science 8:2

86 ML P

Coaching interactions: active learning in a professional

waterpolo team

L. Varriale1, P. Briganti1, D. Tafuri1, F. Mazzeo2, G. Guillot1

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Naples

‘‘Parthenope’’, Italy

Aim: The research aims to investigate psychological and organiza-

tional dynamics of coach–coachee interactions, in order to

systematizing and clarifying the studies on this topic in the sport field.

Coaching is conceived as an interactional dyadic or group process of

investigation on low performance to identify criticisms and best

practices. We consider a systemic level of analysis of the following

dimensions: types of coaching agenda contents (skill, performance,

life coaching), characteristics of coaches (external, internal, line

manager, self-coaching), main components stressed by each different

coaching school (emotionality, rationality, activity, awareness, con-

text). These three factors provide a clear theoretical and practical

framework to analyze the interaction between coach and coachee in

terms of co-construct ion sense in the perspective of a continuous and

active learning. Traditional models analyze more the communication

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techniques and strategies adopting in the coaching, here we focus on

the cognitive and emotional aspects of the partners in terms of con-

sciousness about professional identity and interpersonal efficacy. In

the last decades, coaching is mainly applied in the sport field, in fact,

coaches and athletes tend to develop coaching interactions in order to

improve athletes’ performance.

Method: In our exploratory study conducted through a qualitative

approach, we investigate the case of ‘‘Acquachiara’’ professional

waterpolo team in Naples (Italy). After a brief review of the literature

on this topic, we interviewed the team coach (Mr. Paolo De Cres-

cenzo) to discuss the relevance and impact of the coaching

interactions evidencing the basic dynamics and main criticisms.

Conclusion: In the coaching experience investigated the cognitive

and emotional components, in terms of skills and interpersonal effi-

cacy, play a key role and are more important than the communicative

techniques and strategies in alignment of athletes’ beliefs and

behaviors. This is an example of mental coaching because of the

prevalent attention by the coach to the following aspects: construction

of shared respect, common technical and social rules, affective one-

to-one relationships in-group to facilitate autonomy, procedural paths

more important than outcomes, focus on group interests. This work in

progress research can be developed through more interviews to other

coaches and also athletes, and comparisons to other sporting teams in

order to better understand the coaching interactions adopting a kind of

psychological analysis perspective to identify and operationalize the

critical variables.

87 ML P

Highly digitalized environment and low motor

skills: analysis and hypothesis of compensatory

educational intervention

M. L. Iavarone

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the phenomenon of reduced

motor skills in children exposed to Highly digitalized environment

that make use of device (smart phone and tablet) up to 3 h per day.

Method: The study that has followed a methodology of interpretive

analysis has investigated the phenomenon by referring to the orien-

tation of the embodied cognition studies (Gibbs 2006; Rizzolatti and

Sinigallia 2009) and grounded cognition (Barsalou 1999, 2008; Ia-

chini 2011) that analyze the relationship between the body, the

process of motor learning and technology. In particular, we used the

concept of ‘‘affordances’’ (Gibson 1979), or ‘‘call to action in the

subject matter or context’’ in reference to areas of extreme perva-

siveness of digital environment.

Results: The main findings focus on a clear set of questions: what are

the effects that the body undergoes living in an environment in which

technologies have such a strong impact? And how the relationship with

these modification processes of motor learning in the digital natives 2.0?

Conclusion: The focal point of our investigation focuses on the need

to care and to set environment useful to ‘‘vicariance’’ the deficit of

relationship with the environment especially related to the body and

movement.

ReferencesBarsalou LW (1999) Perceptual symbol systems. Behav Brain Sci

22:577–609

Barsalou LW (2008) Grounded cognition. Annu Rev Psychol

59:617–645

Gallese V (2005) Embodied simulation: from neurons to phenomenal

experience. Phenom Cogn Sci 4:23–48

Gibbs R (2006) Embodiment and cognitive science. Cambridge

University Press, New York

Gibson JJ (1979) The theory of affordances. In: Shaw R, Bransford J

(eds) Perceiving, acting, and knowing

Iachini T (2011) Mental imagery and embodied cognition: a

multimodal approach. J Mental Imagery 35

Iachini T, Iavarone ML, Ruotolo F (2013) Toward a teaching

embodied-centered: perspectives of research and intervention.

REM V

Iavarone ML, Iachini T (2012) Verso una didattica ‘‘embodied-

centered’’: prospettive di ricerca e di intervento. In: Sibilio M (a

cura di) La complessita decifrabile. Pensa MultiMedia, Lecce

Rizzolatti G, Sinigaglia C, Anderson F (2008) Mirrors in the brain:

how our minds share actions and emotions. Oxford University

Press, Oxford

Wilson M (2002) Six views of embodied cognition. Psychon Bull Rev

9:625–636

88 ML P

The Courves method: epidemiological survey in order

to screen fitness self efficacy

G. Innocenti1, M. Piazza1, R. Monti2

1Department of Clinical, Experimental Medicine, University

of Florence, Italy2High School teacher, Florence, Italy

Aim: The population under study is referred to 126 female subjects,

selected from among 1,119 subjects, aged between 15 and 84 years

(mean age of 39 years with a standard deviation of 12.9 years) from

19/07–01/17/2014 2007 and participated in the Curves method, the

minimum duration of 30 min to workout at the headquarters of

Chiesina Uzzanese (Pistoia), for a consecutive period of 4 months.

The subjects aged 15 and 64 years; which have been subjected to at

least 4 Indexes relating to 9 body measurements. Exclusion criteria:

subjects were excluded from underweight, i.e., those with a BMI

\18.5. Inclusion criteria only 11, 3 %, i.e. 126 subjects out of 1,119,

are back in the studio.

Method: The analysis of variance represents a set of statistical

techniques that are part of inferential statistics and is born in the

context of experimental research in order to assess the effect of cer-

tain factors (independent variables of the continuous type or

categorical) at the level of one or more dependent variables when the

comparison is done on more than two groups. The ANOVA or ONE-

WAY ANOVA is the simplest type of analysis of variance is used to

test the difference between the means of more than two samples when

you have only one source of variability. A typical example is when

we want to test the hypothesis that three or more drug treatments give

rise to the same result in terms of a certain dependent variable out-

come. In practice, the one-way ANOVA is in a way an extension to

three or more samples of the t test that is normally used in the

comparison of two independent samples. There is talk of one-way

ANOVA for repeated measures when a certain variable of interest is

measured multiple times on different occasions for each of the

experimental units in the study.

Results: This type of statistical methodology has been carried out for

the following three parameters: body weight; waist circumference;

percentage of fat mass. T1, T2, T3 and T4 by dividing the sample into

two parts, 18 women 34 years of age and women 35/64 years age

classes. In the two tests was added the statistical test of significance,

since the results of a statistical test does not have a value of absolute

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S39

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and mathematical certainty, but only of probability. The level of

significance (cut off, threshold value) of a test is 0.05 (5 %); this

probability, called the P value represents a quantitative estimate of the

probability that the observed differences are due to chance. A P value

that is close to 0 reflects a low probability that the observed differ-

ences are due to chance; then define a statistically significant result

simply means that what has been observed is unlikely due to chance.

All statistical analyzes were performed using the statistical software

SPSS 17.

Conclusion: The study aimed to demonstrate the beneficial effects of

the workout at Curves circuit relative to a set of specific parameters,

namely the 9 body measurements, recorded for at least 4 times a period

of at least four consecutive months through 3 training units per week, for

a minimum of 30 min each especially for overweight women and for

those of more advanced age (35–64), and from the point of view of

toning and maintaining a good state of health for women of normal

weight and for those younger (15–34 years). All selected women (126

subjects) were then practiced a permanent, ongoing training during each

month of physical activity (3 times a week) for at least 4 months. The

average age of the participants selected according to the inclusion cri-

teria does not differ from the total sample who had access to the specific

methodology of training (41.4 years, standard deviation 11.6 years).

Even for the age groups are not observed major differences, it is women

between 35 and 54 years to represent most of the sample, but among

these the highest rates are observed between 45 and 54 years (44.4 %).

According to the specific analysis of the data of body measurements was

evaluated in the average body weight at baseline (T0), which is equal to

64.9 kg, with a standard deviation of 10.71 kg.

ReferencesAlloatti, Antonutto, Prampero et al Human physiology. Edi Hermes

Beckham SG, Earnest CP (2000) Metabolic cost of free weight circuit

weight training. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 40(2):118–125

Cupisti A, D ‘Alessandro C, Castrogiovanni S, Barale A, Morelli E

Nutrition knowledge and dietary composition in italian adolescent

female athletes and non-athletes. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab

12(2):207–219

D’Alessandro C, Moretti E, Evangelists I, Galletta F, Fanzoni F,

Lazzeri D, Piazza M, Cupisti A (2007) Profiling the diet and body

composition of adolescent subelite rythmic gymnastics

19(2):215–227

Kreider RB, Wilborn CD (2009) Weight management: ‘‘nutritional

concerns in recreation, exercise, and sport’’. CRC Press, Taylor &

Francis, Oxford, pp 167–200

89 ML P

Learning by observation: can a cognitive process be

transformed into a powerful rehabilitation tool

in the presence of intellectual disabilities?

F. Foti1,2, D. Menghini3, E. Orlandi1, C. Rufini3, G. Valerio4,

S. Spera5, A. Crino5, S. Vicari3, L. Petrosini1,2, L. Mandolesi2,4

1Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy2IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy3Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino

Gesu Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy4Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy5Pediatric and Autoimmune Endocrine Disease Unit, Bambino Gesu

Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy

Aim: New competencies may be learned through active experience

(learning by trial and error) or observation of others’ experiences

(learning by observation). Observing another person performing a

complex action accelerates the observer’s acquisition of the same

action and limits the time consuming process of learning by trial and

error. The aim of this study was to analyze the ability to learn by

observation and by trial and error in Williams syndrome (WS) and

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS), in order to facilitate interventions that

develop the acquisition of new cognitive and motor abilities in the

presence of intellectual disabilities.

Method: The performance of twenty-four WS individuals (mean

mental age 6.03 y ± 0.02) and twenty-four PWS individuals (mean

mental age 6.04 y ± 0.03) was compared with that of twenty-eight

typically developing (TD) children matched for mental age and

gender on tasks of learning of a visuo-motor sequence by observation

or by trial and error. The participants learned the sequence either by

performing the task after in an observational training (observing an

actor detecting the sequence) or by actually performing the task by

trial and error.

Results: The syndromic groups showed specular learning profiles.

Indeed, PWS individuals were impaired in learning the sequence by

observation and they were as efficient as TD children in detecting the

sequence by trial and error. In contrast, WS individuals were able in

learning the sequence by observation and they were impaired to learn

the sequence by trial and error in comparison to TD children.

Conclusion: The present results have important implications for

developing specific programs to facilitate the acquisition of new

cognitive and motor competencies allowing better social integration

and development of self-efficacy and self-confidence in individuals

with intellectual disabilities.

ReferencesMeltzoff AN et al (2009) Foundations for a new science of learning.

Science 325:284–288

Bird G, Heyes C (2005) Effector-dependent learning by observation

of a finger movement sequence. J Exp Psychol Hum Percept

Perform 31:262–275

90 ML P

Motor learning strategy: using mistakes to eliminate

mistakes

C. Milanese1, S. Corte1,2, V. Cavedon1, T. Agostini3

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Italy2PhD Course in Science of Physical Exercise and Human Movement,

University of Verona, Italy3Department of Psychology, University of Trieste, Italy

Aim: Previous studies showed that error amplification strategy was

efficient if the main error was amplified and the learner exaggerated

their main error as much as possible. The aim of this study was to gain

a better understanding of how the subject’s run pattern varies as a

consequence to main error’s vs. secondary errors’ amplification.

Method: 20 students studying at the School of Exercise and Sport

Sciences were recruited for the experiment. The focus was on the foot

at touchdown; the participants with a rearfoot strike (n = 14)

were selected for the experiment, while those with a forefoot strike

were excluded (n = 6). Fourteen participants (mean age of

20.9 ± 1.4 years) were randomly assigned to one of two groups:

main error (ME) group and secondary error (SE) group. The rearfoot

strike was diagnosed as the main error, whereas an incorrect shoulder

position (i.e., behind the base of support) as the secondary error.

Kinematic outcomes were recorded with a VICON system. Mann–

Whitney-U-test was used to assess the differences between the groups

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at two times: T0 and T1. Differences of the data within groups at T1

were analyzed by Wilcoxon-Test.

Results: No significant differences were found between groups at T0,

nor after corrective intervention (T1) for all kinematic parameters,

except for the ankle angle at T1 (p = 0.004). At T1, the ME group

showed significant differences in the ankle angle values, the toe and

the heel height with respect to the ground, as well as the horizontal

distance between the COM and the heel (7.72, -21.96, +12.69, -

20.41 %, respectively; p \ 0.05 for all). No significant changes were

found in the SE group (p = 0.735, p = 0.310, p = 0.499 and

p = 0.128, respectively).

Discussion: In this study, the amplification of a secondary error (i.e.,

the spatial position of the shoulders with respect to the foot strike) did

not cause any change to the subject’s foot strike pattern. The findings

show that an intervention on the shoulders (secondary error) did not

provide the subject with the intrinsic feedback necessary for a useful

comparison between his movements. It would seem therefore that the

diagnosis of the main error, as suggested by previous studies [1, 2], is

necessary for the use of amplification of error as an effective learning

strategy for the correction of motor pattern.

ReferencesCesari and Milanese (1995) Coach Sport Sci, 18–29

Milanese et al (2008) Sport Psychol, 164–174

91 ML P

Interlimb coordination and corticospinal excitability

in karate athletes

F. Moscatelli1,2, A. Valenzno1, A. I. Triggiani1, A. Petito1, A. Bellomo1,

L. Capranica2, M. A. P. Cilibert1, C. Babiloni3, G. Cibelli1

1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University

of Foggia2Department of Human Movement and Sport Science, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’3Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University

of Rome

Aim: Activity-dependent neural plasticity is associated with altered

correlation in neuronal discharge. Transcranial magnetic stimulation

(TMS) can be used to monitor the functional state of the corticospinal

system. By using single-pulse TMS we studied the ongoing neural

activity in the primary motor cortex (M1) of karate athletes and the

interlimb coordination performance was considered as a functional

assessment of the corticospinal system excitability.

Method: Thirteen right-handed male karate athletes (25 ± 5 years)

and 13 matched non-athletes (28.7 ± 16.2 years) were enrolled, after

signing informed consent. The TMS was applied using a figure-of-

eight coil (outer coil diameter 70 mm) powered by the Magstim

Rapid2 stimulator. Resting motor threshold (rMT) was determined

according to Rossini et al. (1994). Surface electromyography was

recorded from the first dorsal interosseus muscle. The MEP latency

and amplitude at rMT and 110-120 % of rMT were considered. In-

terlimb coordination was investigated according to Capranica et al.

(2004) and correlated to corticospinal excitability.

Results: In comparison to non-athletes, karate athletes showed sta-

tistically significant lower rMT, shorter MEP latency and higher MEP

amplitude. Similar results were obtained at 110–120 % of rMT.

Overall correlation between rMT and MEP latency and amplitude

were significant. Interlimb coordination performances were more

pronounced in athletes, than in their counterpart non-athletes. As

expected, correct executions were better during the in-phase, than

anti-phase condition, with a significant decrement from 80 to

180 bpm frequencies. Correlation analysis between rMT and inter-

limb coordination tasks showed an overall highly significant

relationship at 120–180 bpm, in both phase and antiphase conditions.

Conclusion: Athletes practicing karate showed increased corticospinal

excitability in a small hand-muscle, compared with non-athlete coun-

terparts. These findings indicate that activity-dependent alteration in the

balance and interactions between inhibitory and facilitatory circuits

determine the final output from the M1, which characterized karate

athletes. Our results also revealed a close correspondence between

corticospinal excitability and interlimb coordination performance, as a

neurophysiological correlate of sport practice in karate athletes.

ReferencesCapranica et al (2004) Field evaluation of cycled coupled movements

of hand and foot in older individuals. Gerontology 50:399–406

Rossini et al (1994) Non-invasive electrical and magnetic stimulation

of the brain, spinal cord and roots: basic principles and procedures

for routine clinical application. Report of an IFCN committee.

Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol 91:79–92

92 ML P

Pedagogy of the sport interface between the practice

of sport and training of the person

F. Perrotta

Literacy Motor Project, CONI, Italy

The sport in Italy involves tens of thousands of kids with passion and

dedication to train, play and compete under the constant guidance of

coaches and instructors. From this basic idea, it should be noted that the

technical aspect covers all be roughly the 50 % of the work required to

build and manage a team at youth level in an engaging and educational. It

is not clear why then work in the field should be 99.9 % of an exclusively

technical. Also, because we firmly believe to have experienced it per-

sonally that a team of guys with whom he has worked seriously on the size

of the team spirit, the atmosphere of the locker room, the management of

emotions is even more ready to assimilate the technique and especially to

play better. Education through sport, it is a strong message that should be

disseminated by a small team in a small town to a big club in a big city.

Method: The European Union and the World Health Organization

have identified promotion of education ‘‘LIFE SKILLS’’, one of the

priorities of educational policies and interventions to promote among

the younger generations and adults, such as:

• Problem Solving, address and solve everyday problems in a

constructive way,

• Critical Thinking and Creative Thinking, analyze the situation in

an analytical way, exploring alternatives, and finding original

solutions,

• Effective communication, express yourself in a manner appropri-

ate to the situation and interlocutor, both verbal and non-verbal

level

• Empathy, recognize, discriminate, share the emotions of others

• Management of emotions and stress management, recognize and

regulate their emotions and states of tension

• Effectiveness staff, able to effectively organize a series of actions

needed to cope with new situations, trials and challenges

• Effectiveness collective system of values and beliefs shared by a

group about the ability to achieve common goals

Conclusions: Train children and adolescents to overcome the errors

mean strengthen them inwardly, so as to give them a good reason to

always face the inevitable difficult situations that arise in their lives.

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Goal of any sound education is to ensure that children acquire the

inner strength to get back into the game, to not give into despair. Our

task will be to help children to form their own future, in order to raise

teenagers ready to compete in adult society.

ReferencesPerrotta F (2002) Pianeta scienze motorie. Ellissi, Napoli

Perrotta F (2003) Chinesiologia, Ellissi, Napoli

93 ML P

Motor skills with the ball

A. Tinto1, 2, G. Camolese1, 3

1SUISM, University of Torino, Torino, Italy2Italian Federation of Gymnastics (FGI)3Italian Football Federation (FIGC)

Aim: This study aims at searching for specific skills related to the ball

control through the use of the feet. The landmark sports have been

football, which, above all others, is linked to the use of the ball

through our feet and rhythmic gymnastics implying, within the study

of the body effort, the use of other parts of the body and, therefore,

also the feet. The test has been submitted to Suism students of Turin

attending the course of Skill Structuring.

Method: The 2-month test has been developed in three main phases. If

the first has been dedicated to the research of foot sensitization situations

considered in the different segments, the second has examined the spe-

cific elements of the ball (knocking a ball about, rolling, throwing) both in

individual situation and application to the group. Finally, the third phase

has been aimed at organizing and classifying the skills according to the

schemes and the parameters mentioned in the bibliography.

Results: About 40 specific motor skills have been pointed out by the

students, distributed in a taxonomy including 10 items, referable to

basic elements useful in an initial phase of introduction to sport. Youth

sport, strictly linked to the structuring of motor skills, is increasingly

making use of transversal competences. Two main reasons: the path of

introduction to sport should take into consideration the growth and the

establishment of solid common bases (multilateralism) in order to enter

and develop a motor speech aiming at one discipline.

94 ML P

Physical activity in preschool children: the opinions

of the parents

L. Bello1, E. Sponza1, G. Fumagalli1, P. Tortella1,2

1Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University

of Verona, Italy2Department of Philosophy and Cultural Heritage, University of Ca

Foscari, Venice, Italy

Aim: This qualitative study aimed to investigate parents’ opinions on

physical activity of preschool children.

Method: 37 parents of 0–6 y old children, participating to a ‘‘special

physical activity day for children’’ in May 2014 completed a written

semi-structured interview with open-ended and closed questions. The

parents were asked opinions on preschool physical activity at school

and at home, and about the relevance of the ‘‘special physical day’’.

The interviews were coded in NVivo.8.

Results: From parents thinking physical activity depends on multi-

dimensional factors and that a number of variables, across several

categories influence the activity. The most relevant categories are:

organization (85 %), cultural (44 %), social (22 %), health (11 %),

economic (10 %), psychological, cognitive (10 %), emotions (30 %),

physical environmental (35 %). Parents perceive the importance of

many factors in the development of their children and the most

important role of physical activity is enjoyment, vent, socialization,

opportunity to relate with peers and parents. Parents also delegate to

school teachers the daily physical activity of their children. They

assert that the physical environment is very important for children

development and they would like to have more parks and events

dedicated to children. Only few parents (10 %) evidence the impor-

tant of physical activity for health and motor development, as the

most important related aspects are enjoyment, vent, socialization,

relations.

Conclusion: Physical activity is perceived by parents as an opportunity

of enjoyment, vent, socialization, relations and not a fundamental

activity to promote health. They delegate to school and they don’t know

their important role in promoting physical activity in their children.

ReferencesDe Craemer M et al (2013) Physical activity and beverage consump-

tion in preschoolers: focus groups with parents and teachers. BMC

Public Health 13:278

Hinkley T et al (2008) Preschool children and physical activity. Am J

Prevent Med 34:435–441

95 ML P

The development of gross motor competence in 5 y old

children is related to the scaffold of the physical

educator

P. Tortella1,2, G. Fumagalli2

1Department of Philosophy and Cultural Heritage, University of Ca

Foscari, Italy2Department of Public Health and Community Medicine

Aim: In this study we analyze the role of the physical educator in

developing motor competence in a difficult task, in 5 years old

children.

Method: Fifty-nine 5 year old children of Treviso were studied in the

local playground Primo Sport 0246. The children attended the play-

ground for 10 weeks, once a week, for 30 min free play and 30 min

structured activity. They were randomly divided in group A (80

children) and group B (30 children). Group A were scaffold by the

physical educator during difficult motor tasks and group B was free to

find personal strategies to execute the task, without support. The task

consisted in climbing a spring bar, walking without falling down:

group A could lean on the arm of the educator to climb the bar. When

up the child has to walk alone and if he could not the educator told

him to jump down and supported him to climb up again, at the same

point of the jump, until the end of the bar. Group B was asked to find

the best strategy to climb the bar and to walk in balance.

Results: At the beginning no children could climb the bar, after 10

lessons 20 % of group B were able to climb but unable to walk, while

80 % of group A could climb the bar by themselves, 17 % requested help

and 3 % could not climb. Of the 29 children able to climb the bar, 33 %

walked the entire path without falling, 50 % fallen less than twice and the

remaining fallen more than twice. During free time, the 29 children of

group A extensively and repeatedly used the spring bar by themselves;

the instrument was not used at all by any of the children of group B.

Conclusion: Why children of group A continued to train during free

play on the balance spring bar, without successfully results until the

5 weeks while children of group B didn’t? We suppose that the role of

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the physical educator, scaffolding each child influenced the self per-

ception of motor competence, determining their resistance in training

without immediate success and develop their resilience and capabilities.

ReferencesLubans DR et al (2010) Fundamental movement skills in children and

adolescents. Sports Med 40:1019–1035

Tortella P et al (2012) Percezione-azione: il ruolo dell’educatore nella

attribuzione di significato all’ambiente e al compito, con bambini

di 5 anni, Atti del Nono Convegno Ann. dell’Associazione Italiana

di Scienze Cognitive, Trento, pp 303–308

96 ML P

The human movement syntax

R. Scaramuci, A. Onofri, A. Marconcini, M. G. Vinciguerra

Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology

University of L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to define a ‘‘Movement Sintax’’, that,

using more technical coded elements, establish their exact connection

through a process based on mechanical principles of applied knowl-

edge. The purpose is to provide, to the coaches and teachers, an easy

assessment of movements evaluation.

Method: The study is determinate from syntactic analysis the

movement elements. Observing at the above elements, it is noted

that to determine the center of gravity movement, respect to the

connection point between two successive instants, it is sufficient to

evaluate, which among the possible ones, the most appropriate

attitude to trade the body center of gravity trajectory, needed to

make the move.

Results: The result of this work was the compilation of graphics cards

built using the graphical program auto-cad 2010 version, easy to read

and understand mechanical movements from the simplest to the most

complex. The cards will be collected into a volume, nearing com-

pletion, entitled the ‘‘Motor Subsidiary’’, which may be, in the future,

a useful tool for all those who work on the move and in particular for

students of Sports Colleges and degree programs in sports science.

Conclusion: At the conclusion of this analysis, it will be possible to

provide an additional means of knowing the movement to improve

teaching strategies are applied to it, for ease of understanding in all its

mechanical and technical forms. This study also makes it easier to

recognize the errors of movements execution, allowing the operator to

implement the best and most appropriate corrections.

ReferencesMalavenda S (1952) Tecnica e didattica dell’educazione fisica: prima

parte. Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano, 299

Malavenda S (1956) Tecnica e didattica dell’educazione fisica:

seconda parte. Labor Arti Grafiche, 246

Manoni A (1992) Biomeccanica e Divisione Strutturale della

Ginnastica Artistica, 229

TRAINING AND NEUROMUSCULARPERFORMANCE

97 TN O

Acute passive stretching reduces peak power output

and exercise efficiency during a cycle incremental ramp

test

F. Esposito, E. Limonta, E. Ce, S. Longo, M.Venturelli, A. Veicsteinas

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University

of Milan, Italy

Aim: Acute passive stretching can temporarily compromise muscle

maximum force generating capacity through mechanical alterations

and neural adjustments. While the effects of stretching on short-term

anaerobic tasks have been already extensively investigated, yet little

is known about the influence of this maneuver on aerobic perfor-

mance. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the

effects of acute passive stretching administration on peak aerobic

power and exercise efficiency during a continuous cycle incremental

ramp test.

Method: Eight physically active males (age 23 ± 3 years; stature

1.71 ± 0.1 m; body mass 68 ± 8 kg; mean ± SD) performed two

maximum incremental ramp tests (25 W/min), with and without pre-

exercise stretching, in random order. During tests, we measured O2

uptake (VO2) and other metabolic and cardiorespiratory parameters

breath-by-breath. The slopes of the VO2 vs. mechanical power rela-

tionship below (S1) and above (S2) the first ventilatory threshold were

calculated. Delta efficiency (Dg), as the ratio of the change in work

accomplished per minute to the change in energy expended per

minute, was also determined over the same exercise regions as for S1

(Dg1) and S2 (Dg2).

Results: With stretching: (1) in spite of similar peak VO2, peak power

output was about 3 % lower (P \ 0.05); (2) S2 increased by 11 %

(P \ 0.05); and (3) Dg1 and Dg2 were significantly changed by +2.1

and -3.4 %, respectively (P \ 0.05).

Conclusion: Overall, these results are suggestive of a preserved

aerobic metabolism at peak exercise, but also of a less efficient sys-

tem in the heavy and severe exercise domain after stretching

administration. These findings have several practical implications,

questioning the opportunity to prescribe the maneuver immediately

before a task of heavy or severe intensity, when efficiency plays a key

role in testing and/or performance.

ReferencesEsposito F et al (2012) Cycling efficiency and time to exhaustion are

reduced after acute passive stretching administration. Scand J Med

Sci Sports 22(6):737–745

Fowles JR et al (2000) Reduced strength after passive stretch of the

human plantarflexors. J Appl Physiol 89(3):1179–1188

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S43

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Neuromuscular fatigue on locomotor and non-

locomotor muscles induced by half marathon run

G. Boccia1,2, D. Dardanello2, V. Rosso2, E. Colamarino2, C. Tarperi3,

F. Schena1,3, A. Rainoldi2

1CeRiSM, Rovereto, Italy2Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

School of Exercise and Sport Sciences, SUISM, University of Torino,

Torino, Italy3Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological

and Human Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: This experiment investigated the fatigue induced by half-mar-

athon run (21.1 km) on neuromuscular function of locomotor and

non-locomotor muscle groups.

Methods: Neuromuscular function evaluation was performed the day

before (PRE) and immediately after (POST) half-marathon on 11

experienced runners. It consisted of two maximally voluntary con-

tractions (MVC) respectively of knee extensor and arm flexor

muscles. During contractions electromyographic signal were recorded

respectively from vastus lateralis (VL) and biceps brachii (BB)

muscles with linear array of eight electrodes. Average rectified values

(ARV), muscle fiber conduction velocity (CV), and fractal dimension

(FD) of electromyographic signals were calculated. ARV is related to

the net muscle activity [1], CV is related to size of muscle fiber

recruited, and FD is inversely related to the synchronization of

recruited motor units. Wilcoxon test was used to compare PRE versus

POST values.

Results: Knee extensors showed decreased MVC valued (-14 %,

p = 0.001) together with reduction in ARV of VL (-13 %,

p = 0.01), reduction in CV (-6 %, p = 0.05), and no difference in

FD (+0.4 %, p = 0.84) in POST. Conversely, arm flexors did not

showed MVC changes (+1 %, p = 0.12) while showing ARV

reduction in BB (-15 %, p = 0.02), a trend to increase in CV (+8 %,

p = 0.21), and lower FD (-1.3 %, p = 0.002) in POST.

Conclusion: Strength reduction in knee extensors was accompa-

nied by a comparable reduction of muscle activity and by a

reduction in size of recruited muscle fibers. Arm flexors main-

tained strength capability after the run while decreasing the net

muscle activity and increasing synchronization of recruited motor

units. It seemed that half-marathon induced fatigue affected dif-

ferently locomotor and non locomotor muscles. Even if BB muscle

did not reduce strength capability, it showed myoelectric signs of

fatigue.

ReferencesFarina D et al (2004) The extraction of neural strategies from the

surface EMG. J Appl Physiol 96(4):1486–1495

Mesin L et al (2009) A bi-dimensional index for the selective

assessment of myoelectric manifestations of peripheral and central

muscle fatigue. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 19(5):851–863

99 TN OP

The effects of passive stretching

on the electromechanical delay components in human

skeletal muscle

E. Ce, M. Venturelli, E. Limonta, S. Longo, A. Veicsteinas,

F. Esposito

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University

of Milan, Italy

Aim: Electromechanical delay (EMD) represents the time delay from

the onset of muscle electrical activation to the onset of force devel-

opment. EMD includes events that are electrochemical and

mechanical in nature. Under isometric contraction, EMD can be

partitioned, by an electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic

(MMG) and force (F) combined approach, into two components, each

containing different parts of the electrochemical and mechanical

processes underlying neuromuscular activation and contraction.

Acute passive stretching alters muscle–tendon unit (MTU) stiffness

and reduces peak force (pF). MTU mechanical properties and EMD

are closely related. Thus, EMD changes would be expected after

stretching. The aim of the study was to assess the stretching-induced

changes in electrochemical and mechanical contributors to EMD. The

time course of these changes were also evaluated.

Method: Tetanic stimulations were delivered on the medial gas-

trocnemius muscle of 16 male participants, before and after (every

15 min, for 2 h) passive stretching. During contractions, EMG, MMG

and F signals were recorded. Delays between EMG and F (EMD),

EMG and MMG (Dt EMG-MMG, EMD mainly electrochemical

component) and MMG and F signals (Dt MMG-F, EMD mainly

mechanical component) were calculated, together with pF and EMG

conduction velocity (CV).

Results: After stretching (1) pF decreased by 31 % (P \ 0.05), while

EMG CV did not change; (2) EMD, Dt EMG-MMG and Dt MMG-F

increased significantly from 45.4 ± 3.0 ms, 2.2 ± 0.3 ms and

42.4 ± 3.1 ms to 52.7 ± 3.4 ms, 2.4 ± 0.3 ms and 50.3 ± 3.5 ms,

respectively; (3) EMD and Dt MMG-F remained lengthened for the

entire recovery period, while Dt EMG-MMG recovered within 15 min.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that after stretching, pF reduction

was accompanied by an elongation of the overall EMD. Stretching

had effects of short duration at the electrochemical level, but more

persisting effects on MTU characteristics.

ReferencesCavanagh PR, Komi PV (1979) Electromechanical delay in human

skeletal muscle under concentric and eccentric contractions. Eur J

Appl Physiol Occup Physiol 42:159–163

Rampichini S et al (2014) Effects of fatigue on the electromechanical

delay components in gastrocnemius medialis muscle. Eur J Appl

Physiol 114(3):639–651

Simic L et al (2013) Does pre-exercise static stretching inhibit

maximal muscular performance? A meta-analytical review. Scand J

Med Sci Sports 23:131–148

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Fatigue affects optimum angle in knee flexors

but not in knee extensors

G. Coratella, G. Bellin, M. Beato, F. Schena

Department of Neurological and Movement Science, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: Running kinematics parameters show different adaptations after

a fatiguing protocol, highlighting a reduction of knee movement. An

altered balance of knee flexors and extensors is considered a predis-

posing injury factor in soccer, and is usually monitored using

functional and conventional Hamstrings to Quadriceps ratios

(Hecc:Qconc and Hconc:Qconc respectively). The aim of the study is to

measure optimum angle changes recorded during an isokinetic test

before and after a soccer match simulation.

Methods: Twenty-two amateur male soccer players participated in

the study. Before and after a standardized soccer match simulation,

subjects performed maximal isokinetic strength tests both for ham-

strings and quadriceps muscles at 60�/s, 180�/s and 300�/s. Optimum

angle, peak torque and both Hecc:Qconc and Hconc:Qconc were exam-

ined. Both dominant and non-dominant limbs were tested.

Results: Optimum angle significantly increased (0� = full extension)

only in knee flexors. Both eccentric and concentric modalities evi-

denced such increment, which occurred in both limbs. No changes

were found in knee extensors optimum angle. Subjects experienced a

significant strength loss both in knee flexors and knee extensors.

Functional Hecc:Qconc ratio was lower only in dominant limb at higher

velocities, while Hconc:Qconc did not change.

Conclusion: After a specific fatiguing task, only hamstrings showed a

clear leftward shift of peak angle in length-tension relationship. In

addition, decreased H:Q ratio was confirmed. Both differences in

strength and in torque/angle relationships indicate an incremented

difference between knee flexors and extensors. These results add a

further explanation about increasing hamstrings strain injury risk

during last minutes of soccer match.

ReferencesDelextrat A et al (2010) The use of the functional H:Q ratio to assess

fatigue in soccer. Int J Sports Med 31(3):192–197

Small K et al (2009) Soccer fatigue, sprinting and hamstring injury

risk. Int J Sports Med 30(8):573–578

101 TN OP

Effect of acute stretching on upper limb strength in elite

women volleyball players

C. Battaglia1, G. Fiorilli2, E. Iuliano2, E. Pistone1, G. Aquino2, G.

Calcagno2, A. Di Cagno1

1Department of Health Sciences, Foro Italico, Rome, Italy2Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Italy

Aim: It is generally believed that pre exercise static stretching pro-

motes better performance and reduces the risk of injuries during

exercise. Aim of the study was to determine the effect of a bout of

static stretching (SS) and dynamic stretching (DS) on upper limb

strength, across a time spectrum of 25 min.

Method: Twenty-four female volleyball players (age 19.5 ± 1.5

years, weight 65.2 ± 6.32 kg, height 1.68 ± 0.06 m) were enrolled

as volunteers for the study. Two days of randomized experimental

testing (SS, DS) were completed. Each subject of SS group performed

five exercises in 6 min. The DS protocol consisted of the volleyball

team’s usual DS warm up of the same duration to SS. Post-stretch

performance measures were assessed by push up test (PUT) and

overhead throw test (OTT) to determine upper limb power and

explosive strength, respectively, at 0, 5, 15, and 25 min post-stretch.

Results: The 2 9 4 way repeated measures ANOVA revealed no

interaction between groups on PUT, whereas significant interaction

on OTT (p \ 0.01) (F(1.22) = 9.806), were found. In the OTT, the

analysis of variance for DS revealed a significant difference across

time F = 10.212 (p \ 0.05). DS group improved OTT performance

after 15 min (OTT-0 = 6.40 ± 0.8 m vs. 0TT-15 6.85 ± 0.9 m)

whereas no significant improvements in SS group were found.

Conclusion: Athletes should be aware to perform upper limb DS

15 min before explosive strength activity. The results of this study

highlighted that 6 min-SS warm up may impair upper limb explosive

force production for up to 25 min.

ReferencesKruse NT, Barr MW, Gilders RM, Kushnick MR, Rana SR (2013)

Using a practical approach for determining the most effective

stretching strategy in female college division I volleyball players.

J Strength Cond Res 27(11):3060–3067

Simic L, Sarabon N, Markovic G (2013) Does pre-exercise static

stretching inhibit maximal muscular performance? A meta-analyt-

ical review. Scand J Med Sci Sports 23(2):131–148

102 TN OP

Stretching-induced changes in calf muscles

architecture, stiffness and neuromuscular activation

S. Longo, E. Ce, M. Devoto, M. Venturelli, E. Limonta, A. Veicsteinas,

F. Esposito

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Universita

degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to understand whether the previously

shown stretching-induced decrements in torque and stiffness at the

ankle joint could be ascribed also to changes in the architecture of the

gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and lateralis (GL) muscles, both in the

middle and distal portions of the muscles’ bellies.

Methods: Fourteen physically active male participants volunteered

for this study (age 23 ± 2 years, body mass 75.6 ± 9.5 kg, stature

1.77 ± 0.08 m, mean ± SD). Fascicle length (FL) and pennation

angle (PA) were calculated in the middle and distal portions of GM

and GL at 0�, 10� and 20� of dorsiflexion. At the same angles, passive

torque (Tpass), peak torque (pT) and myotendinous junction dis-

placement of GM and GL were determined. Stiffness of the muscle–

tendon unit (MTU) was calculated as the slope of the passive torque–

angle curve at 20�. Muscle and tendon stiffness were calculated for

both GM and GL, by dividing the changes in Tpass and MTJ and Tpass

and tendon displacement between 0� and 20�, for muscle and tendon

stiffness, respectively. Measurements were repeated after static

stretching (SS).

Results: After SS, Tpass, pT and MTU stiffness decreased by 22, 12

and 16 %, respectively (p \ 0.05). Muscle and tendon stiffness

decreased by 15 and 16 %, and 38 and 12 % (p \ 0.05) in GM and

GL, respectively. Nevertheless, no changes in FL and PA occurred.

The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient was always [0.90.

Conclusions: The present findings show that after a bout of static

stretching, the decrease in torque production was not related to the

architecture of the middle and distal portion of both gastrocnemii

heads, thus excluding the role of changes in PA and FL as possible

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S45

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contributors to the stretching-induced decrease in pT output. Con-

versely, torque reduction was coupled with a significant decrease in

the whole MTU stiffness, attributable to a decline in stiffness at

muscle and tendon level occurring in both heads of the gastrocnemius.

In particular, MTU stiffness decrements after SS correlated strongly

with changes in stiffness at the tendon level.

ReferencesMorse CI et al (2008) The acute effect of stretching on the passive

stiffness of the human gastrocnemius muscle tendon unit. J Physiol

586(1):97–106

Nakamura M et al (2011) Acute and prolonged effect of static

stretching on the passive stiffness of the human gastrocnemius

muscle tendon unit in vivo. J Orthoped Res 29(11):1759–1763

103 TN OP

The effects of neuromuscular training on vertical jump

in young female basketball players

R. Benis1, M. L. Russo2, A. La Torre1

1Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy2Department of Applied and Clinical Science and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: Aim of this study is to measure the influence of neuromuscular

training program on vertical jumps in female young basketball

players.

Methods: Fifty-five healthy regional female basketball players

(16 ± 2 years, 62.9 ± 8.4 kg, 174 ± 7 cm, 20.8 ± 3.1 kg/m2) were

involved in a 9-weeks protocol consisting of three session/week of 2 h

of basketball practices. All subjects were divided in two groups: 30 in

the ‘‘experimental group’’ and 25 in a ‘‘control group’’. The 20 min

neuromuscular program consisted in core endurance, plyometrics and

strength exercises whereas the control group performed the normal

training routine. Subjects were tested at baseline (BL) and week 9

(W16) by Y excursion balance test, Counter Movement Jump (CMJ)

and one legged CMJ (Optojump, Microgate, Bolzano, Italy). A paired

t test and a unpaired t test were used respectively to assess pre-post

differences within groups and between groups. Results were expres-

sed as mean ± SD. Significant differences were found at p \ 0.05.

Results: All participants completed the 9 weeks program with a mean

adherence of 90 %. No significant differences were found at BL in the

two groups. At W9, experimental group showed significant

improvements in CMJ (ES 0.8) one-legged CMJ right leg (ES 0.8)

CMJ left leg (ES 0.6).

Regarding the control group we did not find any significant differ-

ences at W9 compared to BL.

Conclusions: The study shows how a neuromuscular training pro-

gram has shown to increase vertical jumps in young female basketball

players.

ReferencesAnderst DM et al (1994) Effects of plyometric and explosive

resistance training on lower body power. Med Sci Sports Exerc

26:S31

Gal Ziv et al (2010) Vertical jump in female and male basketball

players—a review of observational and experimental studies J Sci

Med Sport 13:332–339

Hewett TE, Ford KR, Myer GD et al (2006) Anterior cruciate

ligament injuries in female athletes: part 2, a meta-analysis of

neuromuscular interventions aimed at injury prevention. Am J

Sports Med 34:490–498

Zazulak BT et al (2007) Deficits in neuromuscular control of the trunk

predict knee injury risk: a prospective biomechanical-epidemiolo-

gic study. Am J Sports Med 35:1123–113

104 TN OP

Effects of passive stretching on local vascular

hemodynamic response

M. Venturelli, E. Limonta, E. Ce, F. Esposito

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University

of Milan, Milan, Italy

Aim: Neurophysiological, structural, and biomechanical effects of

passive limb stretching (PLS) have been already extensively studied.

However, only few investigations focused on the peripheral hemo-

dynamic responses to PLS, and only in the animal model. Therefore,

the aim of this study was to determine in healthy humans the acute

effects of PLS on limb blood flow (LBF). Our hypothesis was that

peripheral hemodynamic responses would be affected by the PLS,

because of the repetitive ischemias and reperfusions induced by the

passive skeletal muscle tension.

Method: Eight healthy individuals (age 22 ± 3 years) underwent a

passive stretching protocol of the knee extensors, during which the

participants’ knee joint was passively flexed at 20� for 45 s, and

passively extended at 180� for 15 s. The PLS procedure (flexion and

extension) was repeated 5 times. Measurements of arterial blood

velocity and vessel diameter were taken in the passively stretched leg

distal to the inguinal ligament and proximal to the deep superficial

femoral bifurcation with Logiq-9 ultrasound systems.

Results: PLS had a significant influence on peripheral hemodynamic.

Specifically, LBF responses during the 1st passive flexion of PLS

were transitory increased with respect to baseline by *125 %.

Interestingly, a second hyperemia (*120 % of baseline) was recor-

ded during the limb passive extension of the 1st PLS. During the 2nd

PLS procedure the hyperemic response recorded during the passive

flexion phase of PLS was drastically reduced with respect to the 1st

(*25 % of baseline), while LBF recorded during the passive exten-

sion was equal respect to the 1st PLS (*120 % of baseline). From the

3rd PLS procedure the hyperemic responses to passive flexions were

negligible, while the peaks of LBF were consistently elevated

(*120 % of baseline).

Conclusion: In agreement with our hypothesis, PLS significantly

influenced peripheral circulation in the passively stretched knee ex-

tensors. However, the time response of these alterations in the

peripheral hemodynamic suggests two different components of this

phenomenon. The hyperemic response corresponding to the flexion

phase of the PLS procedure could be explained by an acute release of

nitric oxide derived from the mechanical stretching of the vessels.

Afterwards, the response decreased progressively during the 2nd and

3rd, 4th, and 5th PLS procedures. Contrarily, the constant hyperemic

responses recorded during the passive extensions of PLSs were pos-

sibly caused by a reduced ischemia determined by a diminished

skeletal muscle tension.

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TRAINING AND EVALUATION METHODS

105 TE O

Underwater symphony synchronized swimming team

Teate Synchro training evaluation

C. Marrone, F. Masedu, M. G. Vinciguerra

Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate in a group of athletes

belonging to Synchronized Swimming Synchro Team Teate, the

improvements achieved performing a training program of 8 months.

Method: The sample collected 18 women, with age ranging from 11

to 20 years. The training program started at October 2013 carrying

out the first diagnostic tests. The water test was: speed 25 m swim

style, cooper test, 25 m apnea distance. The Cleaning test was: lower

limb mobility (right/left split, front split), trunk mobility (seat and

reach). The second evaluation took place in January 2014. The third

evaluation was carried out in April 2014. As a matter anthropometric

BMI was detected only in the last part of the evaluation. The statis-

tical analysis performed linear mixed models accounting for the

longitudinal structure of the study design. Model fitting was assessed

by likelihood ratio test adjusting for multiple testing. Measures

repeatability was estimated using intra class correlations. The analysis

made use of the statistical software STATAVersion13.

Results: The results showed for the apnea test a BMI = -0.91 ± 0.44;

Period = 2.45 ± 0.30; Age = not statistically significant. In this case

an high BMI score get worse performance on the apnea getting an

average improvement of 2.45 at each testing period. The

ICC = 0.86 ± 0.06 (high availability). The test of Cooper gave the

following outcomes: BMI = not statistically significant; Period =

28.46 ± 11.00; Age = 161.22 ± 39.53. At each period of testing we

get an average incremental effect of 28.45. Il ICC = 0.47 ± 0.18 (low

repeatability). The speed test performed on average in the following

way: BMI = not statistically significant; Period = 28.46 ± 11.00;

Age = -4.49 ± 2.17; Period = -0.92. The was ICC = 0.85 ± 0.07.

The other variables performed likewise with high repeatability scores.

Taking into account the results obtained from the tests carried out

engines is possible to conclude that for all abilities analyzed there have

been improvements over the period starting with different entities.

Conclusion: The sincronette, especially in the free exercises, must be

able to last for several minutes the paddle, the thrusts and kicks,

sometimes with very intense muscular effort, in apnea. Therefore,

even if they are not yet well-defined physiological characteristics, it is

certain that the adaptive resistance is key aspects in their athletic

training, as it is fit to work in apnea.

ReferencesDal Monte A, Faina M (1999) Evaluation of the athlete: functional

analysis and biomechanics of performance capability

Greek M, Forty B (1996) Heart rate variations in response to apnea

during synchronized swimming

106 TE OP

EEG theta coherence in cycling performance

S. di Fronso1,3, C. Robazza1,2, L. Bortoli1,2, E. Filho1,2, P. Ripari3,

S. Comani1,4, M. Bertollo1,3

1BIND-Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dinamics Center, University

of Chieti ‘‘G. d’Annunzio’’, Italy2Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti

‘‘G. d’Annunzio’’, Italy3Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University

of Chieti ‘‘G. d’Annunzio’’, Italy4Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University of Chieti

‘‘G. d’Annunzio’’, Italy

Aim: Brain cortical activity is related to exercise preference, mode

and intensity during endurance sport like cycling. Drawing on the

multi action plan (MAP) model, we aimed at verifying whether

specific cortico-cortical functional connectivity patterns in the theta

band underlie associative attention-based strategies reflecting differ-

ent attentional focus and perceived effort.

Method: Ten male cyclists participated in the study, which included

four visits. During the first visit, they performed an incremental test to

estimate their anaerobic threshold (AT), and individual preferred

pedalling rate (IPPR). During the other three visits they completed a

time to exhaustion (TTE) test at IPPR with a workload defined as

AT + 5 %. During the TTE test, EEG (32 channel system by ANT)

was recorded and RPE scores were collected. A counterbalanced

random design was used. Cyclists directed their attentional focus to:

(1) a metronome reproducing their IPPR (associative external strat-

egy; type 1 performance) (2) perception of their IPPR (associative

internal strategy on the core-component of action; type 2 perfor-

mance), (3) feelings of muscular fatigue (associative internal

dysfunctional strategy; type 3 performance). Coherence analysis in

the theta band (3.5–7.5 Hz) was performed to detect functional con-

nectivity patterns related to the different attentional strategies.

Coherence maps were calculated for the EEG baseline, for periods of

RPE ranging 0–4, 5–8, 9–MAX and during recovery.

Results: RM-ANOVA showed differences among the three experi-

mental conditions in TTE with the worst performance obtained in

type 3 condition. Coherence analysis results showed general and

diffused cortico-cortical functional connections among electrodes

during baseline and recovery, with a coherence decrease during TTE

in type 1 and 2 conditions, in particular for periods of RPE 0–4. On

the other way, type 3 condition maintained general and diffused

coherence also during TTE.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that theta cortico-cortical functional

connectivity patterns reflect the attentional strategies adopted, and are

associated with functional and dysfunctional performance types.

Regular synchronization of cells network reflects mental activity and

actual information processing 3.

ReferencesBrummer V et al (2011) Med Sci Sport Exerc 43:1863–1872

Bortoli L et al (2012) Psychol Sport Exerc 13:693–701

Klimesch W (1999) Brain Res Rev 29:169–195

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107 TE OP

Auxotonic training method and free exercise in figure

skating: a longitudinal study

M. Gollin1, E. Fornaca2, R. Allois2

1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Motor Science

Research Center, University School of Motor and Sport Sciences,

University of Turin, Turin, Italy2University School of Motor and Sport Sciences Graduate, University

of Turin, Turin, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of a tradi-

tional free body exercise (FBEG), and elastic bands conditioning EG

on the performance of vertical jumps, body balance, flexibility of

lower back and hamstring muscles.

Method: A sample of 16 athletes of both gender, practicing figure

skating in single specialty at a competitive level were examinated.

They were divided into two homogeneous groups of work, com-

posed of 8 individuals each: elastic band Group (EG, age

14–3 years, weight 48–11 kg, height 157–15 cm) and free body

exercise group (FBEG, age 15–3 years, weight 50–7 kg, height

162–10 cm) Both groups had 7–3 years of practice of sport, carried

5–1 weekly training sessions of the fundamental discipline, for a

total of 7–1 h per week, 11 months a year and participated in races

5–1 times during the season. The tests were carried out before the

start of training protocol (T1), and at the end, 10 weeks later (T2).

The athletes have performed the following tests in the same order:

podo postural balance test (using stabilometric platform), the lower

back flexibility (Sit and reach test), and the jump test: squat jump

(SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement jump free

arms (CMJFA).

Results: Data analysis (Wilcoxon test; T1 vs. T2) in the FBEG

showed a statistically significant change in stabilometric platform test,

in the right mono-podalic test sampled with closed eyes: Dev. st. M-L

(p \ 0.05, -21 %); Average speed M-L (p \ 0.01, -18 %); Perim-

eter (p \ 0.05, 21 %).

Conclusion: Free body and elastic bands exercises, were efficient

methods of maintaining the organic and muscular capacity. Moreover,

free body exercise improves stability in eccentric contraction on the

ground in limb stance phase.

108 TE OP

Anthropometric characteristics and ethnic background

of the athletes and swimmers winners at the last four

Olympic Games (2000–2012)

I. Frascaro1, R. Sammarco1, M. Marra1, F. Contaldo1,2

1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico

II, Naples, Italy2Interuniversity Center of Obesity and Eating Disorders, University

Federico II, Naples, Italy

Aim: In this study we have analyzed demographic characteristics

(age, height, weight, BMI and ethnicity) of 678 athletes winners of the

three Olympic medals (gold, silver and bronze) in swimming and

athletics disciplines at Olympic Games from 2000–2012. The main

purpose of the study was to verify a possible relationship between

ethnicity and athletic performance.

Method: Data have been collected from the official website of the

Olympic Games (http://www.Olympic.org); those related to age and

anthropometric characteristics were taken from the site (http://www.

sport-reference.com).

Results: Among male winner athletes (n = 204), mostly (38 %;

n = 77) came from North America and 60 % n. 124 belong to Black

ethnicity; female athletes (n = 216) mostly (49 %; n = 106) came

from European Continent and 60 % n. 129 belong to Caucasian

ethnicity; male swimmers (n = 144) mostly (42 %; n = 60) came

from North America and 83 % n. 120 belong to Caucasian ethnicity;

among female swimmers (n = 114) mostly (36 %; n = 41) came

from European Continent and 90 % n. 103 belong to Caucasian

ethnicity.

Conclusion: Black African ethnicity of athletes living Western

Countries (North America and Europe) excell in athletic disciplines

possible for several reasons: (1) genetic predisposition, (2) develop-

ment of a good O2 uptake capacity as a result of an early exposure to

walking and running, (3) a relative increase in measured Hb and Ht, (4)

development of optimal metabolic efficiency based on the somatotype

and lower limbs characteristics (5) a favorable enzyme profile and

muscle fibers composition, (6) special dietary habits, (7) live and train

at altitudes and (8) a strong motivation to achieve economic success.

The Caucasian success in swimming games may be explained

because Caucasians have a lower bone mineral content (BMC), a

lower skeletal muscle mass despite comparable total body water

(TBW) with consequently lower fat-free mass body (FFB) compared

to Black-Africans.

Caucasians, thus, seem to have more buoyancy and fluidity in the

water than Black-Africans swimmers. In conclusion, ethnicity and

socioeconomic factors may significantly affect the success at Olympic

competitions.

ReferencesCohn SH et al (1977) Body elemental composition: comparison

between black and white adults. Am J Physiol 232:E419–E422

Schutte JE et al (1984) Density of lean body mass is greater in blacks

than in whites, J Appl Physiol 56:1647–1666

Zillikens MC et al (1991) Estimation of total body water by

bioelectrical impedance analysis in blacks. Am J Hum Biol

3:25–32

109 TE OP

Effects of two different muscular resistance training

protocols on health-related fitness components in young

healthy subjects

L. Russomando1, D. Martone1,2, A. Alfieri1,2, P. Buono1,2

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2CEINGE Biotechnologie Avanzate s.c.ar.l., Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of two different

resistance training protocols, muscular endurance (ET) and muscular

strength (ST), on some health-related physical fitness components.

Resistance training has been accepted as alternative method to

improve and maintain muscular fitness and to promote health.

Recently, high intensity resistance training has been proposed as a

novel strategy for increasing adherence to physical activity.

Method: 42 healthy, untrained, young men (26 ± 2.2 years; Body

Weight, BW, 75.36 ± 6.78), recruited by ASD Ardor Naples, have

been randomly assigned to ET (n = 21) or ST (n = 21) protocols,

respectively. ET session consists in ten exercises, 3 sets of 18–20

repetitions at 60–65 % of 1-RM, 30–60 s rest between sets. ST ses-

sion consists of five exercises, 3 sets of 6–8 repetitions at 80–85 % of

1-RM, 90–120 s rest between sets. Both groups trained 45 min per

S48 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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session, three times a week, for 16 weeks. At baseline (T0) and after

intervention (T1), BW, waist circumference (WC), aerobic fitness

(VO2max), muscular fitness (1-RM), fat mass (FM) and Free Fat Mass

(FFM) were assessed in both groups.

Results: ET and ST groups showed similar health-related fitness

components at baseline (T0); all enrolled subjects completed the

intervention program. At T1, significant improvements (p \ 0.05) in

BW, VO2max, 1-RM, FM and FFM were observed in both groups. In

particular, WC resulted significantly reduced (88.5 ± 3.6 cm vs.

93.1 ± 3.4 cm, p \ 0.05) only in ET group at T1. Further, inter-

group comparisons at T1 evidenced a significant improvement in BW

(71.1 ± 7.5 kg vs. 77.2 ± 6.0 kg) and in FM (12.68 ± 1.4 kg vs.

14.56 ± 1.37 kg) in ET compared to ST group, respectively. Con-

versely, FFM resulted enhanced (p \ 0.05) in ST compared to ET

group (62.6 ± 4.9 kg vs. 58.4 ± 6.9 kg), as expected.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that both ET and ST protocols are

effective to improve physical fitness and could be used as alternative

protocols to traditional aerobic training; in fact, reducing the

monotony, these protocols may increase compliance and reduce the

dropout, especially in sedentary subjects.

ReferencesNicholas AR et al (2009) Med Sci Sports Exerc 41(3):687–708

Paoli A et al (2012) J Transl Med 24(10):237

110 TE OP

Different effect of high intensity resistance training

(HIRT) and low intensity resistance training on molecular

signalling response in human skeletal muscle

T. Moro1, A. Paoli1, A. Bianco3, L. Monaco2, F. Naro2, C. Reggiani1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova,

Italy2DAHFMO Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, University

of Rome, ‘‘La Sapienza’’, Rome, Italy3Department of Movement Science, University of Palermo, Palermo,

Italy

Aim: Resistance training (RT) is one of the most important stimuli for

muscle hypertrophy, but it may play also an important role on weight

loss and fat acid (FA) oxidation increase. It has been largely dem-

onstrated that RT affects anabolic signalling molecule

phosphorylation but, considering the numerous variables of RT, the

differences between training modalities has been till now poorly

investigated. The aim of this study was to assess Akt, 4EBP1, S6 and

AMPK, ACC signalling after a single bout of high-intensity resistance

training (HIRT) and of traditional resistance training (TRT).

Methods: 12 healthy subjects performed in two different moments and

with different legs HIRT and TRT protocol. HIRT consisted in 2 sets of

6/2/2 reps with incomplete rest between (20’’) sets while TRT consisted

of 4 sets 915 reps with 101500 of rest between sets. Biopsies from the

vastus lateralis were taken 1 week before training sessions (pre),

immediately after (T0), 6 h after (T6) and 24 h after (T24) training.

Results: No significant differences were found at any of time points

after exercise in AKT and 4EBP1 phosphorylation. There was a

significant increase in S6 phosphorylation at T6 both in HIRT and

TRT. Exercise intensity does not seem to influence the response of

AMPK: AMPK-P increased after both kind of RT; ACC-P activity

greater increased immediately after HIRT respect to TRT, but any

significant differences were measured at any time point. mRNA

analysis showed that HIRT seems to be more related to mechanical

deformation (MGF), while the TRT seems to act on IGF-1 pathway.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that a less time commitment

resistance training technique is equally effective to induce an increase

of S6-P without a concomitant increase of AKT-P that could be

explained by an AKT-independent S6 phosphorylation. AMPK/ACC

pathway analysis may suggests a greater FA oxidation with high

intensity/low volume resistance training compared to traditional

technique. This data seems confirm that the manipulation of different

variables of RT induces different molecular and metabolic responses

related to the activation of specific muscle signaling pathways.

ReferencesAndersen JL, Aagaard P (2010) Scand J Med Sci Sports. 20(2):32–38

Paoli A et al (2014) Clin Physiol Funct Imag (in press)

Paoli A et al (2012) J Transl Med 24(10):237

Paoli A (2012) AM J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 302:E387

Verdijk LB et al (2009) Am J Clin Nutr 89(2):608–616

111 TE OP

Perceived control and hedonic tone in shooting

performance: a case study

C. Robazza, M. Bertollo, E. Filho, L. Bortoli

Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, BIND, Behavioral

Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, ‘‘G. d’Annunzio’’ University,

Chieti, Italy

Aim: In this case study we examined the effects of perceived control

and hedonic tone dimensions on performance as conceptualized

within the theoretical framework of the multi-action plan (MAP)

model. Four performance categories were derived according to 2 9 2

interactions of hedonic tone and performance, and perceived control

and performance.

Method: An elite-level shooter (age = 27 years) member of the

Italian national team participated in the study. He was asked to: (1)

identify the most relevant, idiosyncratic core component of his

shooting action, and (2) perform 120 shots distanced 10 m from a

professional target. Prior to and after each shot, the shooter reported

his perceptions of hedonic tone and perceived control of the core

component of action.

Results: A logistical ordinal regression analysis was used to examine

the shooter’s hedonic tone and perceived control in regards to his

performance levels. Results showed within individual differences in

intensity and probability levels of the dependent variables across the

four performance types. Data trend over time was also examined. The

shooter exhibited large fluctuations in both hedonic tone and per-

ceived control throughout the shooting session.

Conclusion: Findings provided support for the 2 9 2 interactions

(i.e., hedonic tone 9 performance, and perceived control 9 perfor-

mance) as outlined in the MAP model. From an applied perspective,

results suggest that athletes can take advantage of using both emotion-

centered and action-centered strategies in order to achieve optimal

performance states.

ReferencesBertollo M et al (2013) Behavioural and psychophysiological

correlates of athletic performance: A test of the multi-action plan

model. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 38:91–99

Bortoli L et al (2012) Striving for excellence: a multi-action plan

intervention model for shooters. Psychol Sport Exerc 13:693–701

Johnson et al (2009) Determining individual affect-related perfor-

mance zones (IAPZs): a tutorial. J Clin Sport Psychol 3:34–57

Kamata et al (2002) Individual zone of optimal functioning (IZOF): a

probabilistic estimation. J Sport Exerc Psychol 24:189–208

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S49

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112 TE OP

Neuromuscular taping of the ankle: acute effects

on joint stability of a classical method versus a T.E.CH.

protocol

L. Russo, P. Bartolucci

Department of Applied and Clinical Science and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the acute effects on ankle

stability of a classical application of neuromuscular taping (CT) to a

mixed protocol consisting of taping application and proprioceptive

exercises (TECH). Previous studies [1–3] investigated the effects of

neuromuscular taping on ankle postural control but no studies are

available about the effects of training using neuromuscular taping.

Method: Eighteen male regional rugby players (27.6 ± 3.3 years;

176.5 ± 7.5 cm; 87.6 ± 15.5 kg) performed two trials on separated

days: CT or TECH condition was randomly assigned. CT condition

consisted of a neuromuscular taping application dressed on for

25 min, during this time subjects were allowed to move freely. TECH

condition was the same of CT but during the 25 min subjects per-

formed a protocol of proprioceptive exercises. Each trial started and

ended with an open (OE) and closed (CE) eyes monopodalic stabil-

ometry (Sensor Medica, Guidonia-RM, Italy). For each test the

following parameters were evaluated: CoP path length (CL), sway

area (SA), average velocity (AV), Dx and Dy. Data were normally

distributed and a t test was used for statistical analysis. No time and

learning effects about the stabilometric data was measured between

trials.

Results: The CT protocol produced significant differences for CL

(-26 %), AV (-32 %) and Dy (-28 %) of the right foot only in CE

condition. The TECH protocol produced significant modifications for

CL (-15 %), AV (-17 %), Dx (-15 %) and Dy (-26 %) of the left

foot in OE condition, while significant differences for CL (-18 %),

AV (-22 %) and Dy (-22 %) of the left foot and for CL (-17 %),

AV (-22 %), Dx (-19 %) and Dy (-22 %) of the right foot were

measured in CE condition.

Conclusion: The results suggest that the combination of neuromus-

cular kinesio taping with proprioceptive training (TECH) maximizes

the stability of the ankle through a significant reduction of the

instability parameters.

ReferencesCortesi M et al (2011) Effects of kinesio taping on standing balance in

subjects with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. Neuro Rehabil

28(4):365–372

Nakajima MA et al (2013) The effect of kinesio tape on vertical jump

and dynamic postural control. Int J Sports Phys Ther 8(4):393–406

Schields CA et al (2013) Effect of elastic taping on postural control

deficits in subjects with healthy ankles, copers, and individuals with

functional ankle instability. Foot Ankle Int 34(10):1427–1435

NEW DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIESAPPLIED TO MOVEMENT AND SPORTSCIENCES

113 DS O

Unraveling the doping molecular effects of DHT

and IGF-1 combined hyperstimulation in human

peripheral blood lymphocytes

E. Imperlini1,2, S. Spaziani3,4, A. Mancini1,3, M. Caterino1,2,

P. Buono1,2,3, S. Orru1,2,3

1CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy2Fondazione IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy3Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy4Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care@CRIB, IIT,

Naples, Italy

Aim: Despite many clinical evidences claim positive association

between doping agents abuse and increased health risk, the related

molecular mechanisms remain still uncharacterized. Previously, we

demonstrated in human peripheral lymphocytes (PBL) that high doses

of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-

1) modified the expression of genes involved in skeletal muscle dis-

orders as well as in cell-mediated immunological response. At protein

level, DHT hyperdosage affected cell motility and apoptosis; IGF-1

hyperstimulation triggered an active cytoskeletal reorganization and

an overproduction of immune response- and inflammation-related

cytokines. Here, we investigated the molecular effects of DHT and

IGF-1 hyperstimulation (DHT + IGF-1) in human PBL using a pro-

teomic approach.

Method: PBL were isolated from buffy coats of heparinized blood of

healthy adult male donors, cultured and treated with DHT (80-fold

physiological levels) and IGF-1 (fivefold physiological levels). Then,

we analyzed the protein expression profiles of DHT + IGF-1 lym-

phocytes using 2D DIGE technology and protein arrays. Proteomic

data were further analyzed by bioinformatic tools.

Results: 2D DIGE analysis revealed 25 differentially expressed

proteins, most of them included by IPA software in the high-score

network: Cell Signaling, Cellular Assembly and Organization. Five

species belonged to the ‘‘paxillin signaling’’ that plays a key role in

cell adhesion. By using specific protein arrays, 27 kinases displayed a

high phosphorylation level in DHT + IGF-1 lymphocytes, whereas

most cytokines were underexpressed.

Conclusion: Our data indicate that the DHT + IGF-1 combined

treatment affects cell adhesion through modulation of expression

levels of cytokines and paxillin signaling-related proteins. Moreover,

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DHT + IGF-1 hyperstimulation produces a long activation of differ-

ent transduction signaling pathways, confirming a synergistic effect of

DHT and IGF-1.

ReferencesImperlini E et al (2010) Androgen receptor signaling induced by

supraphysiological doses of dihydrotestosterone in human periph-

eral blood lymphocytes. Proteomics 10:3165–3175

Mancini A et al (2013) DHT and IGF-I in blood lymphocytes: new

markers for the Athlete’s Biological Passport. J Biol Regul

Homeost Agents 27:757–770

Spaziani S et al (2014) Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor signaling

induced by supraphysiological doses of IGF-1 in human peripheral

blood lymphocytes. Proteomics (in press)

114 DS OP

Acute tendinopathies in sport: therapy with Aloe gel

topical use vs. laser therapy

A. Ammendolia, T. Iona, R. Scarfone

1Department of Surgical and Medicine Sciences, ‘‘University

of Catanzaro Magna Graecia’’, Catanzaro, Italy2Medical staff, Volley Tonno Callipo, Vibo Valentia, Italy

Aim: Several studies emphasize the anti-inflammatory properties of

aloe in mice and rats, but no systematic investigation exist in humans.

The aim of this study is to evaluate if the topical use of aloe gel is

effective and safe for the treatment of the acute tendinopathies in

athletes, compared with low-laser therapy.

Method: During 2 consecutive championship sessions, we enrolled

46 healthy volleyball players affected by patellar or Achilles ten-

dinopathies, divided in: GROUP A, 25 male (28.3–4.9 years; weight

93.1–11.6; height 198–7.0) treated by 3 topical applications/day of

aloe gel for 10 days; GROUP B, 21 male (28.8–4.4 years; weight

93.4–13.4; height 198.6–6.5) treated by 1 session/day of low laser

therapy for 10 days. Using a VAS score, we evaluated local pain

(T0 = basal; T1 = after 5 days and T2 = after 10 days from the

beginning of the therapy) and considered the number of the days from

the beginning of the treatments to the restarting of the gym training

and back to the competitions. All parameters are reported as mean

standard deviation and were processed by t test and considering

significant values of P \ 0.05.

Results: About the local pain, in both groups there was an important

pain relief after 5 days (GROUP A: T1 = 4.3–1.5; GROUP B:

T1 = 4.8–1.4), but without significant statistical differences. Instead

at T2 we noted a significant reduction of the local pain in GROUP A:

T2 = 1.2–1.4 respect to GROUP B: T2 = 2.1–1.6 (P \ 0.048).

Moreover we observed a very significant statistical difference about

the days need to restart the gym training (GROUP A: 4.5–1.4;

GROUP B: 6.1–1.2; P \ 0.0001) and back to the competitions

(GROUP A: 8.3–2.9; GROUP B: 11.3–2.2; P \ 0.0001). No side

effects were observed.

Conclusion: These data demonstrate that both therapies are effective

to obtain the pain relief, but using Aloe gel should be possible to have

a larger reduction of the symptom, supporting a quicker back to the

sport activity and with the advantage to make the therapy at home. So,

considering his effective and safety, in our experience the topical use

of Aloe gel can be considered a valid alternative in the treatment of

the athletes acute tendinopathies.

ReferencesBrett MA et al (2008) Treatment of tendinopathy what works, what

does not, and what is on the horizon. Clin Orthop Relat Res

466:1539–1554

Vogler BK et al (1999) Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical

effectiveness. Br J Gen Pract 49:823–828

115 DS OP

Benefits of brisk walking as moderate on soluble

and cell markers of inflammation in HIV-infected

persons receiving anti-HIV drugs: a pilot study

M. Bonato1, V. Longo2, S. Bossolasco2, G. Pavei3, G. Merati1,

A. La Torre1, P. Cinque2

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy2Department of Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute,

Milan, Italy3Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University

of Milan, Milan, Italy

Aim: Regular physical exercise could be beneficial for delaying all

causes of mortality in the general population reducing the risk of

cardiovascular diseases and type-2 diabetes. These diseases are

associated with chronic inflammation caused by abnormal cytokine

production characterized by activation of inflammatory signaling

pathways. Chronic inflammation is a common feature also in HIV

infected subjects caused by the interplay between HIV infection and

combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). Based on these hypothesis,

aim of this study was to investigate the effects of brisk walking, as

moderate aerobic exercise, on physical fitness, metabolic measures

and soluble and cell inflammatory markers among HIV-infected

treated subjects.

Methods: A pilot study was designed including HIV-infected, cART-

treated, sedentary subjects with metabolic problems, in a 12-week

protocol consisting of 3 outdoor sessions/week of 60 min brisk

walking at 65–75 % of HRmax with (‘‘walk-strength’’ group) or

without (‘‘walk’’ group) 30 min circuit training at 65 % of 1-repeti-

tion maximum (RM). Measures at baseline (BL) and at week 12

(W12) included distance walked at 6 min walking test (6MWT) and

1-RM Test; morphometric measures; fasting lipid and glucose blood

profile; plasma level of d-dimer, high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP),

interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-18 (IL-18), soluble CD14 (sCD14),

myostatin, and CD38 and HLA-DR expression on CD4 + and

CD8 + cells. Differences between groups were tested by the Mann–

Whitney test and W12 changes from BL by the Wilcoxon-signed rank

test. Results are expressed as median values.

Results: Forty-nine subjects were enrolled and 36 completed the

12-week program: 15 in the ‘‘walk-strength’’ group and 21 in the

‘‘walk’’ group. Median adherence was 67 %. At W12, significant

improvements from BL were observed of both aerobic and strength

performance, with an improvement of distance walked during 6MWT,

of BMI, waist and hip circumference, and total and LDL cholesterol,

without differences between training groups. Significant reductions

were observed of plasma levels of d-dimer (from 272 to 181 ng/mL,

p = 0.0002), hCRP (from 2.02 to 1.14 lg/mL, p = 0.001), IL-6

(from 4.63 to 4.47 pg/mL, p = 0.021), IL-18 (from 354 to 304 pg/

mL, p = 0.010) and myostatin (from 20.9 to 13.5 pg/mL, p = 0.006).

We observed also a decrease of frequency of CD8+ CD38+ HLA-DR

(from 3.7 to 1.8 %, p \ 0.0001), but not for CD4+ HLA-DR+.

Conclusion: A 12-week protocol of brisk walking was associated

with a significant reduction of immune activation in HIV-treated

subjects with metabolic disorders. Moderate physical activity can be

proposed as a strategy to control long-term consequences of treated

HIV infection.

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116 DS OP

Exertional rhabdomyolysis, RYR1 gene sequence

variations and association with malignant hyperthermia

susceptibility

A. Carsana

Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology,

University of Naples Federico II and CEINGE-Biotecnologie

Avanzate, Naples, Italy

Aim: This work reviews the cases of exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER)

and/or myalgia or of stress-induced malignant hyperthermia (MH)

events in which RYR1 sequence variations (SVs), associated or pos-

sibly associated to MH-susceptibility (MHS), have been identified.

ER and stress-induced MH events are syndromes that primarily pla-

gue military recruits in basic training and athletes. Events similar to

those occurring in ER and in stress-induced MH events are triggered

in MHS patients by commonly used volatile anesthetics and/or suc-

cinylcholine, which cause an altered intracellular Ca2+ regulation.

MH is an autosomal dominant hypermetabolic condition that may

occur in genetically predisposed subjects. SVs in the RYR1 gene,

encoding the skeletal muscle Ca2+ channel (RyR1) of the sarcoplas-

mic reticulum, have been found in about 70 % of MH families.

Results: The possible disease-causing role of RYR1 SVs, identified

in patients who experienced ER and stress-induced MH events, was

discussed. Moreover, studies on a mouse model of heat- and anes-

thetic-induced MHS (knock-in RyR1Y522S/wt) reported that AICAR,

an activator of the AMP- kinase, prevents Ca2+ leaking, generation of

ROS and RNS, and heat-induced death in these mice. Interestingly,

studies on the effects of eccentric exercise on mouse RyR1Y522S/

wt muscles indicated that high-force eccentric contractions, run under

non-stressful conditions, may attenuate the thermal stress-induced

loss of function.

Conclusions: These data emphasize the concept that some RYR1

SVs are associated with both ER and MHS and underline the

importance of performing RYR1 SVs screening in these patients.

Moreover, the potential use of AICAR for prophylactic treatment in

humans with enhanced susceptibility to exercise and/or heat-induced

sudden death associated with RYR1 SVs, and the possible role of

exercise to mitigate the severity of stress-induced MH episodes have

been advanced.

ReferencesCarsana A (2013) Exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis and stress-

induced malignant hyperthermia events, association with malignant

hyperthermia susceptibility, and RYR1 gene sequence variations.

Sci World J 2013:531465

Carsana A (2013) Exertional rhabdomyolysis, RYR1 gene sequence

variations and association with malignant hyperthermia suscepti-

bility. Int J Clin Anesthesiol 1:1004

Chelu MG et al (2006) Heat- and anesthesia-induced malignant

hyperthermia in an RYR1 knockin mouse FASEB J 20:329

Corona BT et al (2010) Effect of prior exercise on thermal sensitivity

of malignant hyperthermia susceptible muscle. Muscle Nerve

42:270

Lanner JT et al (2012) AICAR prevents heat induced sudden death

in RYR1 mutant mice independent of AMPK activation. Nat Med

18: 244

117 DS OP

ACE I/D polymorphism and physical activity

engagement: role of body composition and hormones

P. Izzicupo, B. Ghinassi, M. A. D’Amico, A. Bascelli, A. Di Blasio,

G. Napolitano, A. Di Baldassarre

Aging and Medicine Sciences, University of Chieti, Pescara, Italy

Aim: Lack of physical activity (PA) is becoming a worldwide

problem and the investigation of its correlated and determinant is one

of the most important challenges of present and future research.

Studies on genetic determinants of PA show conflicting results,

however, the role of both obesity and genes related with-it is now

acknowledged. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme insertion/deletion

(ACE I/D) polymorphism has the potential to regulate both adiposity

and PA, trough hypothalamic receptors for its products. Because the

menopausal transition is characterized by the lack of physical activity

and increasing adiposity, the aim of this study was to compare PA,

body composition, and related hormones, in ACE I/D variants of

postmenopausal women.

Method: Thirty-eight post menopausal women (age 55.9 ± 4.2

years) were involved in the study. The ACE I/D genotype was

detected by PCR amplification of a fragment of intron 16 of the ACE

gene. The PCR products were separated using 3 % agarose gel

electrophoresis and visualized using ethidium bromide staining. Daily

PA was measured using a multisensory devices (SenseWear Pro3

Armband; BodyMedia, Pittsburgh, PA). Body composition was

evaluated using a stadiometer with a balance-beam scale, an anthro-

pometric tape (Seca 200; Seca, Hamburg, Germany) and using a foot-

to-foot 50-kHz bioelectrical impedance scale (BC-420MA; Tanita,

Tokyo, Japan). Hormones concentrations were measured with Search

Light Human Cytokine Arrays. Statistical analysis were realized by

Mann–Whitney U test.

Results: Subgroups were divided on the basis of the presence of I

allele (ID/II = 21; DD = 17). DD subjects shows lower PA levels

(Mets, II/ID = 1.50 ± 0.24, DD = 1.40 ± 0.22, P = 0.050; PA

Energy Expenditure, II/ID = 532.74 ± 313.90, DD = 336.12 ±

214.57, P = 0.029), and both worse adiposity (Body Mass Index, II/

ID = 25.95 ± 4.50, DD = 27.99 ± 3.77, P = 0.050; Fat Mass, II/

ID = 21.42 ± 7.52, DD, 25.76 ± 5.98, P = 0.048) and hormones

levels (leptin, II/ID = 47.34 ± 26.00, DD = 66.65 ± 22.94,

P = 0.029; dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, II/ID = 1.13 ± 0.69,

DD = 0.73 ± 0.39, P = 0.048).

Conclusion: ACE I/D polymorphism has been recently suggested to

influence PA engagement and body composition. At the same time,

obesity is a PA determinant. This study shows that DD subjects has

lower levels of PA suggesting that ACE I/D polymorphism might

influence PA engagement by its effect on body composition and

related hormones.

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118 DS OP

Effect of long-term aerobic and anaerobic training on

human myoblast differentiation and oxidative

metabolism

A. Mancini1,2, R. Arcone1,2, A. Alfieri1,2, E. Vitale3, P. Buono1,2,4

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy3Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University

of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, Naples, Italy4IRCCS SDN Foundation, Naples, Italy

Aim: This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of long-term

aerobic or anaerobic training on myoblast differentiation and oxida-

tive metabolism using human skeletal myoblast cells, LHCN-M2 as

paradigm.

Method: 10 young males (20–30 years) who underwent swimming

(SW, n.5) or body building (BB, n.5) training for more than 3 h/week at

least from 3 years were enrolled. As control n. 5 male untrained (UN)

subjects, matched for age were also enrolled. All enrolled subjects gave

their consent informed. Blood samples were collected between 8–10 h

in the morning in order to obtain serum samples. Clinical-biochemical

parameters: blood pressure, glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol,

HDL-cholesterol, insulin and IGF-1 were measured on serum samples.

LHCN-M2 cells were induced to differentiation in a Differentiation

Medium supplemented with 0.5 % serum from SW, BB or UN subjects,

respectively, for 4-days. Myogenic differentiation was assessed by

evaluating the Myostatin, messenger and protein, expression levels

whereas Creatine Kinase activity was measured on protein extracts

from the cells after serum treatment. Similarly, oxidative metabolism

was evaluated by measuring AMPK, PGC1a and UCP3 mRNA

expression levels in serum treated cells.

Results: Myostatin, messenger and protein expression, AMPK and

PGC1a mRNA expression resulted up-regulated ([3-fold) in cells

treated for 4-days with SW or BB serum to respect to UN serum.

Furthermore, myostatin expression resulted increased ([2-fold) in

cells treated with BB when compared to SW serum. These results

correlate with higher concentration of IGF-1 found in BB vs. SW

serum (1,700 vs. 1,490 U/l, respectively; reference values 0–190 U/l).

In addition, the mRNA expression level of AMPK was increased ([2-

fold) in cells treated with SW vs. BB serum; similarly, the UCP3

mRNA was up-regulated ([2-fold) only in cells treated with SW

respect to UN serum, whereas no induction was observed in cells

treated with BB serum.

Conclusion: Our preliminary results suggest that long-term aerobic

and anaerobic training enhance myoblast differentiation. In addition,

aerobic training activates oxidative metabolism in human skeletal

muscle cells. Further observations are required in order to consolidate

our results.

ReferenceZhu CH et al (2007) Aging Cell 6:515

119 DS OP

Evaluation of skeletal muscle oxidative metabolism

in Alzheimer disease patients

M. Ramaglia1, G. Bellistri1,2, M. Marzorati1, L. Sodero1,

L. Zuccarelli1, V. Biscont1, S. Porcelli1, F. Veronesi1

1Institute of Bioimaging and Molecular Physiology, Consiglio

Nazionale delle Ricerche, Segrate Milan, Italy2Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: Recently evidence has been provided that Beta-amyloid (bAP)

deposits, the pathogenetic feature of Alzheimer disease (AD) [1, 2],

can be also present in the mitochondria of skeletal muscle cells [3].

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether in AD patients bAP

deposits in skeletal muscle impair oxidative metabolism.

Methods: Thirteen AD patients (73.5 ± 1.0 years, mean ± SD) and

twenty-nine healthy sex-matched control subjects (CTRL)

(73.3 ± 1.1 years) were investigated. Two incremental exercise until

voluntary exhaustion were performed, in order to evaluate skeletal

muscle oxidative metabolism: a cycloergometer (CE) and a one-leg

knee extension (KE) exercise. The following variables were deter-

mined: breath-by-breath pulmonary O2 uptake (VO2); heart rate

(HR); cardiac output (CO); vastus lateralis muscle fractional

O2 extraction by near-infrared spectroscopy (D[deoxy(Hb ± Mb)]);

blood lactate concentration ([La-]) at rest and after exercise; maximal

voluntary contraction (MVC); total daily energy expenditure (TEE).

Results: During CE, peak work-rate (94.1 ± 7.1 vs. 128.3 ± 8.5

watt) and VO2 peak (22.0 ± 0.8 vs. 26.4 ± 1.1 mL kg-1 min-1)

were significantly lower in AD patients vs. CTRL. CO was similar

between AD patients (14.4 ± 0.5 L min-1) and CTRL

(15.3 ± 0.9 L min-1) whereas D[deoxy(Hb ± Mb)] was signifi-

cantly lower in AD patients (51.05 ± 5.8 %) vs. CTRL

(71.4 ± 2.9 %). During KE, VO2 peak (10.7 ± 0.7 vs.

13.5 ± 0.6 mL kg-1 min-1) and D[deoxy(Hb ± Mb)] (40.02 ± 5.8

vs. 61.01 ± 4.7 %) were significantly lower in AD patients vs.

CTRL. CO (10.93 ± 0.5 vs. 11.62 ± 0.9) and [La-] were not sig-

nificantly different between AD and CTRL. TEE was similar in AD

and CTRL (2,534 ± 243.6 vs. 2,250 ± 119.3 kcal day-1). As for

MVC, no significant difference was found between CTRL and AD

(440.5 ± 39.5 N vs. 438.3 ± 86.7 N, respectively).

Conclusion: Data from the present study indicate that AD patients

have a reduced exercise capacity compared to healthy control sub-

jects, probably due to a reduced muscle fractional O2 extraction

capacity. Indeed, the impairment of muscle oxidative function was

evident also during KE, when cardiovascular constraints to oxidative

metabolism were reduced.

ReferencesHarrison J (2013) Med Clin North Am 97:425–438

Kuo et al (2000) Am J Pathol 156:797–805

Parker Jr et al (1994) Neurology 44:1086–1090

Shea et al (2012) Curr Top Med Chem 12:2596–2610

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S53

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120 DS OP

Contractile impairment of human muscle fibers caused

by aging and by disuse

L. Cancellara1, L. Toniolo1, T. Moro1, M. Venturelli2, K. Koren3,

R. Pisot3, C. Reggiani1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova,

Italy2Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milano,

Italy3University of Primorska, Slovenia

Aim: Muscle contractile performance as measured from maximum

power or from isometric force declines by aging and this decline can

be further accelerated by disuse. In both conditions the functional

impairment is accompanied by a loss in muscle mass (see for a recent

review Blaauw et al. 2013). The contractile impairment can be studied

at single fibre level by measuring cross sectional area (CSA), iso-

metric force (Fo) and maximum shortening velocity (Vo) during

maximal activation. Specific tension (Po) can be obtained as the ratio

between Fo and CSA. Maximum power, in view of the shape of the

force velocity curve, can be calculated as a fraction of the product of

Po and Vo.

Method: We recently studied the effect of aging in two distinct

comparisons among single fibres dissected from biopsy samples of

vastus lateralis: comparison (1) young women (age 20–25 years) vs.

old women (age 85–95 years) in a collaborative study with the Uni-

versity of Verona, and comparison (2) young men (age 20–30 years)

vs. older adult (age 60–65 years) in a collaborative study with the

University of Primorska (SLO).

Results: In both comparisons, the average cross sectional area (CSA)

was found to be significantly lower in the old compared to the young

subjects, while specific tension (Po, mN/mm2) developed during

isometric contraction was not significantly reduced.

The effect of disuse was studied in the same group of subjects of

comparison (2). Both the young and the older adult subjects were

exposed to a bed-rest period of 2 weeks and their muscle fibres col-

lected at the end with a new biopsy. The comparison pre- vs. post-

bed-rest showed not only a significant decrease in the cross sectional

area (-15 %) but also a significant reduction in specific tension

developed during maximal isometric contraction.

Conclusion: The results provide a clear indication of the presence of

two distinct mechanisms responsible of the decrease in the contractile

performance of muscle fibres and related to physiological aging and,

respectively, disuse.

ReferenceBlaauw B, Schiaffino S, Reggiani C (2013) Mechanisms modulating

skeletal muscle phenotype. Compr Physiol 3:1645–1687

FITNESS AND FUNCTIONALEVALUATION

121 FF O

First dorsal interosseus electromechanical activity

during fine control of output tension

C. Orizio1,2, M. Cogliati1,2, P. Gaffurini2, L. Bissolotti2, M. Gobbo1,2

1Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University

of Brescia, Brescia, Italy2Laboratory of Neuromuscular Rehabilitation, ‘‘Teresa Camplani’’

Foundation, Brescia, Italy

Aim: During static contraction each recruited motor unit (MU) con-

tributes to surface EMG and force fluctuation (FF) which can be

regarded as the outcome of the discharge of motor nerve fibres con-

verted to mechanical ripples by the muscles. Scarse data can be found

in the literature about the time course of EMG and FF during steady

contraction. The goal was to gain insights into the adaptation of the

motor control system during fine modulation of the output tension

through the motor task.

Method: In 12 subjects (20–30 years old) the surface EMG and force

from the first dorsal interosseus (FDI) were recorded during two 20 s

isometric contractions at 2.5 and 10 % of maximal voluntary con-

traction (MVC). (I) The root mean square (RMS) of EMG and FF

were computed every 1 s time window. (II) The EMG and FF signals

were normalized and the power due to the samples within the ranges

0–20 %, 20–40 %, 40–60 %, 60–80 % and 80–100 % was calculated

and scaled to the total power of the 20 s period. (III) After the divi-

sion of the signals in 200 windows of 100 ms each, a color contour

plot was obtained adding the windows on the y axis one after the

other. The time mark of the barycenter of the color map was also

identified.

Results: The group average (±SE) data for EMG-RMS and FF-RMS

during the 1st second of activity were: 0.054 ± 0.008 V and

0.39 ± 0.1 N at 2.5 % MVC while 0.107 ± 0.016 V and

0.82 ± 0.18 N at 10 % MVC. Throughout contraction EMG-RMS

was kept stable while the FF-RMS dwindled up to the 20 % of the

initial value (1/2 time about 2.5 s). The power due to the samples in

the 0–20 % range contributed to about 76 % (EMG) and 54 % (FF) of

the total signal power at 2.5 % MVC. From 2.5–10 % MVC only

EMG increased the power in the range 20–40 % from 19 ± 9 % to

27 ± 9 %. The barycenter time was between 9.4 and 9.9 s and 3.8

and 4.3 s for EMG and FF, respectively. The barycenter time was not

influenced by the level of contraction.

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Conclusion: The different EMG and FF RMS time behavior and

barycenter time suggest that during low level static contractions the

central nervous system (CNS) provides, from second to second, a

rather stable flow of motor commands while the tension oscillations

reduce with time. This could be possibly related with changes in the

level of co-contraction of the antagonist, changes in the MU firing

statistics. The increase of the average level of CNS drive to FDI is

reflected in the 20–40 % range of rectified EMG power increment

from 2.5 to 10 % MVC.

122 FF OP

The role of perceived autonomy on psychophysiological

responses to exercise in normal weight and obese

women

E. Codrons1,2,*, M. Vandoni1,*, C. Turpini3, E. Bellinzona3, L. Marin1,

L. Correale1, S. Ottobrini1, A. Alemanno1, C. F. Buzzachera4

1Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic

Science, LAMA (Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity), CRIAMS,

University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia,

Pavia, Italy3Villa Esperia Clinic, Salice Terme, Italy4North University of Parana, Londrina, Brazil

* These authors contributed equally to this work

Aim: The use of self-paced exercise protocols, rather than prescribed,

is associated with positive affective and less strenuous exertional

responses, which may impact adherence. Since the participants of an

exercise program tend to respond as active agents, increasing their

perception of autonomy might lead to more pleasurable and tolerable

exercise experiences. Therefore, this study examined whether the loss

of perceived autonomy may influence affective and exertional

responses to exercise in normal weight and obese women.

Method: 35 sedentary women (19 obese, age 37.8 ± 9.7, BMI

38.4 ± 5.6 kg m-2, VO2max 16.5 ± 3.1 ml kg-1 min-1, and 16

normal-weight, age 37.5 ± 9.8, BMI 20.4 ± 2.0 kg m-2, VO2max

28.7 ± 6.6 ml kg-1 min-1) completed a orientation trial, a maximal

treadmill test and three experimental trials: 20-min exercise bout at a

self-selected speed (Self), 20-min exercise bout at a prescribed speed

identical to the self-selected (Imposed), and an average 17-min

exercise bout at a speed 10 % higher than self (Imposed + 10 %).

Physiological responses were continuously measured during the trials,

affective valence (Feeling Scale) and perceived exertion (6–20 Borg

RPE Scale) were determined every 5 min. A series of three-factor,

repeated measures ANOVA exercise condition (Self, Imposed, and

Imposed + 10 %) 9 time (minutes 5, 10, 15 and 20 of the 20-min

exercise bout), and experimental group (normal weight vs. obese

middle age women). P value for post hoc analysis was adjusted

according to the Bonferroni correction to 0.05/3 = 0.017

Results: Using repeated-measures ANOVA, physiological responses

and perceived exertion were significantly higher (P \ 0.01), and

affective valence was significantly less positive during the

Imposed + 10 % trial than during the Imposed and Self trials in both

groups (P [ 0.05). However, when comparing Imposed vs. Self trial,

physiological responses, affective valence and perceived exertion

were similar between the two conditions. Additionally, obese women

elicited a greater physiological response to exercise in all experi-

mental conditions (P \ 0.01).

Conclusion: This study has provided further evidence that psycho-

physiological responses of normal weight and obese women are

poorly influenced by the loss of perceived autonomy in setting one’s

level of exercise intensity. Additionally, in obese women, imposing a

speed that is just 10 % higher than self led to decrease pleasure,

which may negatively impact exercise participation.

123 FF OP

Relationship among core muscles activity and perceived

exertion: multiple regression analysis

G. Cugliari1,2, G. Boccia2,3, A. Rainoldi2

1Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, Unit of Medical

and Genomic Statistics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

School of Exercise and Sport Sciences, SUISM, University of Torino,

Torino, Italy3CeRiSM, Rovereto, Trento, Italy

Aim: During exercise RPE scale are related to a number of physio-

logical responses including heart rate, blood lactate, Oxygen uptake,

integrated electromyogram and metabolic demands. This study

examined: difference of RPE-OMNI values among traditional and

core exercises; Correlations of EMG values among six core muscles;

simple/multiple regression analysis to estimate the relationship

between RPE-OMNI scale values and the relative levels of muscle

activity during core exercises.

Method: Eighteen young male volunteers performed twelve exercises

in random order. Surface electromyographic (EMG) signals were

recorded from six muscles. The average rectified value (ARV) values

of each muscle were normalized with respect to the maximum ARV

obtained during the correspondent maximal voluntary isometric

contraction (MVIC). At the end of each exercise subjects were

requested to determine the RPE-OMNI (category rating format that

contains verbal descriptors comparatively narrow numerical response

range, 0–10). Friedman’s test showed differences between the RPE-

OMNI values, while the Spearman’s correlation showed the rela-

tionship between the EMG values in all exercises. Simple and

multiple regression analysis was performed. The level of significance

was set at p \ 0.01.

Results: Traditional exercises (stable condition) showed lower RPE-

OMNI values compared to all exercises performed in unstable con-

dition. In general unilateral exercises showed higher RPE-OMNI

values than symmetric exercises. Many exercises showed correlations

among analyzed muscles. The increase of one value of RPE-OMNI

value corresponds to changes in EMG values: during exercises with

the opening of the trunk-upper limbs angle (plank) there is a greater

activation of the LRA (+15 %), while in the exercises with the closure

of the trunk-lower limbs angle (prone crunch) there is a lower acti-

vation of the URA (-12 %); during back extension obliques are

activated in opposite way, IO increases (+3 %) while EO decreases

(-3 %) EMG values.

Conclusion: Results show different activations of the two portions of

the rectus abdominis, obliques and erector spinae muscles in relation

to RPE values. Hence electromyography can be a valuable method to

estimate the relationship between perceived exertion (global output)

and muscle activation (specific output) during core training exercises

with the aim to increase the knowledge of a functional physiological-

perceptual link.

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S55

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124 FF OP

Functional evaluation of lumbar spine in athletes

performing gymnastics: an operational proposal

for trainers

R. Kirchmayer1, M. Quarantelli2, C. Galbusera2

1A.S.D CarsoMuggia2000, Trieste, Italy2Telematic University San Raffaele Rome, Rome, Italy

Aim: In recent years, there has been increasing scientific interest in the

health and performance of athletes. Low back pain (LBP) can limit the

athlete performance and, above all, can be unsafe. Early prediction of

LBP is pivotal for selecting appropriate training strategies. This study

aimed at identifying a set of muscular-skeletal morpho-functional

indicators to evaluate the risk for LBP in young athletes performing

gymnastics, and at selecting among them the newest and more readily

usable to be included in routine training to prevent LBP.

Method: 73 athletes (52 female, 21 male) ranging from 6 to 14 years

were prospectively included between October 2013 and January 2014.

Athletes were divided into 4 groups based on sex (F/M), training

hours/week and skill (P, professional: 8–20 h/week, heavy intensity;

R, recreational: 6 h/week, low/moderate intensity). Athletes were

subjected to a set of 20 tests exploring postural attitude, backbone

mobility, muscular flexibility and strength, and task execution was

scored in a dichotomical way, i.e. as presence or not of a particular

skill or postural alteration.

Results: The mean of positive executions in the whole sample was

76.61 %. The male recreational group (MRG) recorded the worst

performance (63.81 %), the results in the female recreational group

(FRG) were consistent with the whole sample mean value, while both

the female (FPG) and male (MPG) professional groups recorded mean

values higher than the sample mean (86.01 and 84.15 %, respec-

tively). FPG showed a lower percentage of correct posture (41.67 %),

with the presence of both hyperflexibility and hypermobility, and

greater muscular strength with high amplitude of execution. MPG was

characterized by a correct posture (70.00 %), by flexibility and

mobility lower than those observed in the FPG, and by greater

strength with low amplitude of execution.

Conclusion: In none of the 4 groups there was clear evidence of risk

factors for LBP. The greater stability of the lumbar spine observed in

MPG can be attributed to specific isometric muscle work done by this

group. The experimental protocol proved to be a useful diagnostic

tool for assessment of muscular dynamics.

ReferencePurcell L (2009) Causes and prevention of low back pain in young

athletes. Paediatr Child Health 14(8):533–535

125 FF OP

The physiologic profile of climbers during specific

and aspecific aerobic exercise

E. Limonta1, A. Brighenti2, M. Venturelli1, S. Rampichini1, E. Ce1,

A. Veicsteinas1, F. Esposito1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University

of Milan, Milan, Italy2CeRiSM, Centre of Sport Health and Mountain, University

of Verona, Rovereto, Italy

Aim: Limited research has been performed on the involvement of the

cardiorespiratory system during sport climbing compared to a cycling

aerobic exercise. It is conceivable that the involvement of various

muscle groups and the non-cyclical kind of climbing exercise may

result in a different physiological demand in relation to the effort

intensity. Thus, this study aimed: (i) to assess the cardiorespiratory

and metabolic responses during tread wall climbing at steady-state

with different workloads, (ii) to compare the cardiorespiratory and

metabolic involvement during climbing with that during cycling.

Method: 13 expert climbers (age 27 ± 5 years; body mass

69.7 ± 7.2 kg; stature 179 ± 7 cm; mean ± SD) whit a personal best

ascent ranging from 7b+ to 8b+, performed two maximal square-wave

tests on a treadwall (Rotor, Climblock) and on a cycloergometer

(Monark, 839E), in random order. Oxygen uptake (VO2), expiratory

ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), respiratory exchange ratio(R) were

collected breath-by-breath. Blood lactate concentration [La] and rate

of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed at the end of each

workload.

Results: With respect to cycling exercise, during climbing: VO2 and

HR were significantly higher at low workloads while no differences

were found at maximal exercise (VO2: 3,207 ± 128 and

3,375 ± 113 ml/min; HR: 186 ± 2 and 183 ± 4 bpm in tread wall

and cycle, respectively). VE was significantly lower and R higher at

all intensities (P \ 0.05). Interestingly, RPE values were higher and

[La] lower at lower exercise intensities while, at maximal exercise,

RPE was lower and [La] higher with respect to cycle effort

(P \ 0.05).

Conclusion: The present study is the first that analyzes, utilizing a

specific device, the metabolic, cardiovascular and respiratory

involvement during climbing exercise in the steady state condition at

different workloads. Collectively, the findings reflect a climber

physiological profile during specific tasks markedly different with

respect to cycling aerobic exercise, which opens interesting per-

spectives for investigating exercise efficiency during vertical

progression.

ReferencesBooth J et al (1999) Energy cost of sport rock climbing in elite

performers. Br J Sports Med 33:14–18

Rosponi A et al (2012) Influence of ascent speed on rock climbing

economy. Sport Sci Health 7:71–80

Sheel AW et al (2003) Physiological responses to indoor rock-

climbing and their relationship to maximal cycle ergometry. Med

Sci Sports Exerc 35(7):1225–1231

126 FF OP

The respiratory frequency has scalar properties

during self-paced exercise

A. Nicolo, M. Sacchetti

Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, ‘‘Foro

Italico’’, University, Rome, Italy

Aim: Mostly due to its scalar properties (similar time course when

values are plotted against relative exercise duration), perceived

exertion (RPE) is considered a cardinal variable during self-paced

exercise. Since it has recently been shown that respiratory frequency

(fR) is highly related to RPE during self-paced ‘‘isotime’’ exercise

protocols, the present study aimed to test the hypothesis that respi-

ratory frequency has scalar properties during self-paced exercise.

Method: Nine well-trained competitive male cyclists (22 ± 3 years;

VO2max = 65 ± 8 ml kg-1 min-1) performed a preliminary incre-

mental ramp exercise test and three randomized self-paced time trials

differing in the total duration of exercise, i.e. 10 min (TT10), 20 min

(TT20) and 30 min (TT30). Power output, heart rate (HR), gas

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exchange and ventilatory parameters were measured continuously

during exercise, while RPE was collected every minute.

Results: Mean power output significantly (P \ 0.05) decreased with

time trial duration (TT10 = 345 ± 30 W; TT20 = 312 ± 34 W and

TT30 = 297 ± 31 W). However, no between-trial differences in

pacing strategy were found when power output values were expressed

as a percentage of trial mean power output, as well as plotted against

relative exercise duration. No between-trial differences in RPE and

fR time course were found when values were plotted against relative

exercise duration. Conversely, different between-trial time courses

were found for minute ventilaton (VE), VO2 and HR. RPE was sig-

nificantly correlated with fR, VE and HR in all the trials, but

correlation coefficients were significantly higher for fR (TT10 =

0.97 ± 0.02; TT20 = 0.89 ± 0.08 and TT30 = 0.92 ± 0.06) com-

pared to HR (TT10 = 0.91 ± 0.05; TT20 = 0.82 ± 0.08 and

TT30 = 0.81 ± 0.08).

Conclusion: Data indicate that respiratory frequency, but not other

physiological parameters, has scalar properties during self-paced

exercise. Moreover, the respiratory frequency was better correlated

than HR to RPE. These findings strengthen the evidence that respi-

ratory frequency is the physiological parameter that better reflects

physiological strain during exercise. Further studies focusing on

pacing strategy should keep into account this crucial variable.

ReferencesEston R (2012) Use of ratings of perceived exertion in sports. Int J

Sports Physiol Perform 7:175–182

Nicolo A et al (2014) Comparing continuous and intermittent exercise:

an ‘‘isoeffort’’ and ‘‘isotime’’ approach. PLoS ONE 9:e94990

127 FF OP

Comparison between continuous incremental ramp test

and discontinuous square-wave test for vVO2max

assessment in long distance runners and soccer players

A. Riboli, E. Limonta, E. Ce, M. Venturelli, G. Alberti, A. Veicsteinas,

F. Esposito

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University

of Milan, Milan, Italy

Aim: In treadmill testing, the running velocity associated with max-

imum oxygen uptake (vVO2max) is largely utilized for both laboratory

testing and training on the field. Differences between a continuous

incremental ramp test (R1) and a discontinuous square wave tests

(SW) in vVO2max assessment have been already described. Long

distance runners and soccer players are both athletes involved with

running. However, the physiological demands are different: in runners

are continuous while in soccer players are discontinuous, with an

alternation of aerobic and anaerobic tasks. Therefore, the aim of the

study was to compare the vVO2max difference between R1 and SW in

both these athletes. Hypothesis is that, this difference should be

higher in soccer players than in runners, due to a different capacity to

adjust the oxygen transport system at each workload.

Method: Eight runners (RUN) and nine soccer players (SOC)

reported to the laboratory twice to perform two maximum incremental

tests: R1 (1 km/h per min) and SW (workloads of 4 min each, with

5 min of rest in between), in random order, on a motorised treadmill

for VO2max and vVO2max assessment. At rest and during exercise,

cardio-respiratory and metabolic parameters were collected breath-

by-breath. Blood lactate concentration [La-] was measured at rest and

at maximum exercise.

Results: No significant differences between groups and protocols

were found in VO2max (SOC 3,892 ± 104 vs. 3,922 ± 423 ml/min;

RUN 4,159 ± 115 vs. 4,170 ± 116, for SW and R1, respectively), as

well as in VE, VCO2, [La-]peak and HR at maximum exercise.

However, vVO2max was significantly higher in R1 compared to SW in

both groups (SOC 16.1 ± 0.3 vs. 19.4 ± 0.4 km/h, RUN

19.5 ± 0.3 vs. 22.1 ± 0.3 km/h, for SW and R1, respec-

tively; P \ 0.05), with a higher difference between R1 vs. SW in

SOC than RUN (+21 vs. + 13 %, respectively; P \ 0.05).

Conclusion: Despite similar VO2max values, vVO2max was higher in

R1 than in SW in both groups. However, the difference was significantly

higher in SOC than RUN, possibly due to a slower capacity to adjust the

oxygen transport system to a given workload in SOC. Even though the

two protocols can be used to assess VO2max, the vVO2max differences

between protocols must be acknowledged to prescribe correctly high

intensity training, especially for soccer players.

ReferenceBuchheit M, Laursen PB (2013) High-intensity interval training,

solutions to the programming puzzle: part I: cardiopulmonary

emphasis. Sports Med 43(5):313–338

128 FF OP

Effects of 21 half-marathons in 21 days on autonomic

nervous system and psychological parameters: a case

report

G. Rospo1, F. Sartor2, M. F. Piacentini3, A. La Torre1, M. Bonato1,

G. P. Merati1,4

1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan Italy2Department of Personal Health Solutions, Philips Research,

Eindhoven, The Netherlands3Department of Human Movement and Sport Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy4Centre of Sports Medicine, Don C. Gnocchi Foundation, Milan, Italy

Aim: Heart Rate Variability (HRV) measurement is a non-invasive

method used to investigate the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

responsiveness in healthy as well as patients. Even if consequences of

a short term training period on ANS is well acknowledged, the long-

term ([15 days) effect of repeated submaximal exercise remains

elusive. We investigated the cardiac ANS adaptation to 21 consecu-

tive half-marathons and its possible relationships with psychological

fatigue.

Methods: A 42 years old woman (BMI 19.8 kg/m2, VO2max 45.9 ml/

kg/min), voluntarily performed 21 half-marathons in 21 consecutive

days. Every morning, after awakening, heart rate (HR) for 10 min on

a beat-to-beat basis (RR series) in supine position. RR series spectral

powers, indexes of vagal (HFnu; 0.15–0.40 Hz), mixed para- and

sympathetic tone (LFnu; 0.04–0.15 Hz) and sympatho-vagal balance

(LF/HF ratio), were derived. A 32-item profile of mood states

(POMS) questionnaire and Session RPE (mins 9 RPE 10 points

scale) were collected daily.

Results: Running time did not change significantly (1h5405500 ±

405500; p = 0.44, r = -0.18). Number of consecutive running days

(NcRD) negatively linearly correlated with HR rest (p \ 0.001,

r = -0.7) and LogLF/HF (p \ 0.01, r = 0.64), and positively with

LogHF Power (n.u.) (p \ 0.01, r = 0.62). LogLFnu trend on NcRD

was biphasic (p \ 0.01, r2 = 0.55). NcRD negatively linearly corre-

lated with the Energy Index (EI) (p \ 0.0001, r = -0.87). NcRD

positively correlated with session-RPE (p \ 0.01, r = 0.62), whose

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S57

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scores ranged between 0.3 and 5. A positive correlation between

LogLF/HF ratio and EI (p \ 0.01, r = 0.61) and a negative correla-

tion between LogHF Power (n.u.) (p \ 0.01, r = -0.61) were found.

There were no correlations between EI (vigor-fatigue) and LogLF

Power (n.u.).

Conclusions: Twenty-one consecutive half-marathons at sub-maxi-

mal intensity led to a continuous improvement of cardio-vagal control

and sympatho-vagal balance, without a clear plateau. This suggests a

training effect that could be extended further. The EI increase seemed

to reveal an accumulation of psychological fatigue, probably due to

lack of recovery days and monotony of training. Therefore, long-term

daily repetitions of sub-maximal exercise seems to improve cardio-

vagal tone, but to induce also a psychological fatigue accumulation,

which could demotivate the athlete in continuing the training.

ReferenceAubert AE et al (2003) Heart rate variability in athletes. Sports Med

33(12):889–919

129 FF P

Ophthalmologic findings in contact sport disciplines

V. De Luca1, P. Borrione1, F. Quaranta1, F. Sperandii1, E. Cantera2,

F. Fagnani1, F. Pigozzi1

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy2Villa Stuart Sport Clinic FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Rome,

Italy

Aim: The progressive and continuous spread of contact sport disci-

plines aroused the interest of the scientific community mainly because

of the increasingly awareness of risks for the athletes’ health. Many

authors, despite having investigated the incidence and prevalence of

ocular lesions associated with the practice of sports in contact have

not been able to confirm a correlation. The aim of the study was to

investigate the prevalence and the incidence of ocular complications

in contact sport disciplines in a large population of professional and

amateur athletes over a period of 3 years.

Method: A total of 694 athletes (24 ± 6) were examined from 2008

to 2011. The following data were collected during the sport eligibility

visit. All athletes underwent an ophthalmological evaluation includ-

ing the measurement of visual acuity and fields of view, anterior

segment biomicroscopic examination, examination of the ocular

fundus, evaluation of the chromatic sense using Tables of Hishiara

and the study of the binocular vision by Lang Stereo test and other

exams. At the time of the first visit all athletes were asymptomatic.

The follow up of each athlete was performed during the following

regular sport eligibility visit.

Result: As regard the prevalence the principal ocular disorders

observed were: peripheral retinal degeneration (7 %), blepharitis

(4 %), conjunctival diseases (7 %) and corneal diseases (4 %).

Interestingly, it has been observed a positive correlation between

peripheral retinal degeneration and age in amateur male boxers.

Moreover, we noticed an incidence of 6 % of laser therapeutic

treatments as a result of retinal holes or degenerations, during the

follow up.

Conclusion: Contact sport disciplines does not result in higher

prevalence of severe ocular lesion. Both conjunctival diseases and

peripheral retinal degenerations represent the ophthalmologic disorder

with the higher prevalence in our sample. In particular peripheral

retinal degeneration is remarkable because of the increased risk of

retinal detachment. Dyschromatopsie, even if quite rare, should be

considered when analysing the reception of shots since gloves in most

cases are either red or blue.

ReferencesWedrich A et al (1993) Ocular findings in asymptomatic amateur

boxers. Retina 13:114–119

Kuhn F et al (1996) A standardized classification of ocular trauma.

Graefe’s Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 234:399–403

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Can fitness test predict female players’ performance

during a futsal match?

M. Beato, F. Rocchetti, D. Cabas, R. Vendrame, G. Corratella,

F. Schena

Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: Female futsal can be considered a very recent sport in Italy with

the Italian national championship established in 2011. However,

despite its considerable increasing in popularity, the scientific back-

ground about female futsal still limited. For this reason, we analyzed

the fitness characteristics of this specific athletes by means of

endurance and repeated sprint ability tests (RSA), and quantified the

locomotors characteristics performed during a match simulation. Data

achieved allowed to investigate if the workload of the players

decreases between the first and second half, and if there is a rela-

tionship between tests score and workload carryout during the match.

Method: Eight amateurs female futsal players of C division were

enrolled (age 27 ± 4 years, height 1.64 ± 0.10 m, body weight

57.2 ± 8.0 kg, BMI 21.0 ± 2.2, fat mass 22.1 ± 3.5 %) and moni-

tored during the final part of 2013/14 season (May). Athletes were

tested by yo-yo recovery test level 1 (yo-yo 1) and RSA test. Loco-

motor characteristics during a match simulation (composed by two

half of 20 min each) were recorded by means of GPS StatSports

system (sampling frequency 10 Hz). The goalkeepers were excluded

from the study. Main outcomes measures were the total distant cov-

ered (TD), high speed running (HSR) over 14.4 km/h, numbers of

accelerations and decelerations performed, m/min, average metabolic

power (AMP) and high intensity metabolic power (HMP).

Results: We noticed a significant difference (p \ 0.05) between first

and second half in TD (1,418 ± 117 and 1,317 ± 142, respectively)

and m/min (69.4 ± 5.6 and 64.4 ± 6.9, respectively) without finding

any differences in other parameters. We also noticed a relation

between yo-yo 1 and TD (r = 0.59), AMP (r = 0.81), m/min

(r = 0.57) and HMP (r = 0.63). Moreover we found a relation

between RSA mean time and HMP (r = 0.68), HSR (0.74) and

number of accelerations (r = 0.62), and between RSA best time and

HSR (r = 0.82).

Conclusion: By this study we can suppose that there are no sub-

stantial differences in workload between first and second half during

our match simulation. However, this might be due to the character-

istics of simulated match, and this observation could be different if

recorded during a championship match. Moreover, we found that yo-

yo 1 and RSA are correlated with some workload parameters and this

could underline the importance of these tests in female futsal.

S58 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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Anthropometry, body composition and performance

in young wheelchair basketball players

V. Cavedon1,2, C. Milanese1, M. Lorenzato1, C. Zancanaro1

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy2PhD programme in Multimodal Imaging in Biomedicine

Aim: Wheelchair basketball (WB) is well developed in number of

participants and has become one of the fastest growing sports for

athletes with a disability. Actually performance, anthropometric and

body composition parameters regarding young wheelchair basketball

players are still missing. The aim of the present study was to inves-

tigate selected anthropometric and body composition characteristics

and sport-specific performance outcomes of young male and female

WB players.

Method: 50 male (n = 43) and female (n = 7) WB players (mean

age 18.1 ± 4.3 years) belonging to different functional classes were

recruited. Anthropometry comprised: upper arm (relaxed), forearm,

waist and wrist circumference; sitting height, shoulder-elbow and

elbow-wrist length; transverse and anterior-posterior chest depth;

elbow and wrist width. Percent body fat mass (%FM) was estimated

with the Durnin–Womersley equation. A battery of 7 reliable and

valid field tests [1] (‘5 m sprint’, ‘20 m sprint with ball’, ‘maximal

pass’, ‘pass for accuracy’, ‘spot shot’, ‘lay-ups’ and ‘suicide’)

exploring a combination of skills were used to evaluate performance.

The Spearman rank correlation test was used to assess association

between functional class, anthropometry, and body composition

parameters with performance outcomes. Statistical significance was

set at P B 0.05.

Results: The results showed significant positive correlations between

functional class and all performance outcomes (P \ 0.001 for all).

Field tests positively correlated with each other (P \ 0.001 for all).

Several correlations were found between anthropometric parameters

and field tests (e.g., sitting height correlated (P = 0.025–0.009) with

all field tests but the ‘pass for accuracy’ test). The same pattern was

found for the forearm circumference (P = 0.032–0.001). No signifi-

cant correlation was found between %FM and any performance

outcome.

Conclusion: Results of the present study show a clear relationship

between the player’s functional class and performance, suggesting

that the current classification system assure a fair and equitable

competition. Moreover, it is suggested that body dimensions are more

relevant than body fat in young WB field test performance.

ReferenceDe Groot et al (2012) J Sports Sci 879–887

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Measuring functional fitness of athletes, physically

active and sedentary older individuals

G. Condello, R. Forte, S. Falbo, C. Pesce, L. Capranica

Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy

Aim: The assessment of functional fitness of older adults is important

for the identification of individuals at-risk of non-communicable

diseases, for the planning of safe and effective physical activity

programs, and for the goal setting and motivation of participants [1].

The aim of this study was to analyze functional fitness in athletes,

physically active and sedentary older individuals (55–84 years).

Method: 20 athletes (training [5 h week-1), 36 physically active

(structured PA: 2 hweek-1) and 39 sedentary (\1 h.week-1) indi-

viduals performed a functional fitness test battery consisting of chair

sit-and-reach, back scratch, 30-s chair stand, arm curl, handgrip, in-

phase and anti-phase inter-limb coordination, and 3-min walking

tests. Differences between groups were verified by means of multi-

variate ANOVA (p \ 0.05).

Results: With respect to their sedentary counterparts, athletes showed

a better performance (p \ 0.05) in the chair sit-and-reach, handgrip,

30-s chair stand, arm curl, inter-limb coordination (in-phase at

180 bpm, and anti-phase conditions), 3-min walking tests. Further-

more, with respect to their physically active counterparts, athletes

showed a better performance in the handgrip (preferred arm), 30-s

chair stand, arm curl and 3-min walking tests. Only for the arm curl

test a difference emerged between physically active and sedentary

groups.

Conclusion: Findings indicate that a high functional reserve in older

ages is maintained only in individuals involved in competitive sport,

probably due to their higher training volume and intensity with

respect to moderately active and sedentary individuals.

ReferencesCortis et al (2009) Interlimb coordination, strength, and power in

soccer players across the lifespan. J Strength Cond Res

23:2458–2466

Capranica et al (2004) Field evaluation of cycled coupled movements

of hand and foot in older individuals. Gerontology 50:399–406

Cao ZB et al (2013) Prediction of maximal oxygen uptake from a

3-min walk based on gender, age, and body composition. J Phys

Activity Health 10:280–287

Jones J et al (2002) Measuring functional fitness of older adults.

J Active Aging 24–30

Rikli RE et al (1999) Development and validation of a functional

fitness test for community-residing older adults. J Aging Phys

Active 7:129–161

133 FF P

A new method for quantitative tremor assessment

in sports

V. D’Addona, F. Panzera, M. Evangelista, D. Viggiano

Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Campobasso, Italy

Aim: The physiological tremor consists in an involuntary oscillation

of the limbs, in the range of 10 Hz, which is generated in part from

supraspinal brain structures. Its quantitative assessment in the sport

science is relevant for sports requiring ability and for the assessment

of fatigue. However, the measurement of tremor is not yet entered in

standard sports medicine practice because expensive and complex

instrumentations are needed. We present a simple, compact and cost-

effective device for tremor measurement, based on the remote of the

Wii console, the Wiimote, a wireless triaxial accelerometer which can

communicate via bluetooth with a personal computer.

Methods: Eight male healthy volunteers were asked to maintain with

the dominant hand the Wiimote pointing a fixed target for a minimum

of 90 s. The conversion of bluetooth data sent by the Wiimote in a

final file containing the accelerometer informations has been obtained

using a custom script in GlovePie environment. The analysis of the

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S59

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predominant frequency band was done in R environment. We then

demonstrated the sensibility of the Wiimote to the modification of

tremor induced by a muscular exercise, analyzing tremor after 20

repetitions, at the maximum velocity of full range elbow extension/

flexion exercises.

Moreover, we compared the analysis of tremor using the Wiimote with

two other widely used approaches, spiralometry and laser pointing.

Results: Using the Wiimote it is possible to get a real time feedback

on hand tremor. The sampling rate was sufficient to observe the

frequency peak at 8–10 Hz, which characterizes postural tremor and

the increase of tremor intensity after the exercise. Moreover the

Wiimote largely outperformed the spiralometry and laser pointing

system.

Conclusion: The Wii remote application represents an accessible and

simple way for clinicians to quantify tremor which might easily

become part of the standard toolkit for scientists and sports medicine

professionals. Neural control of pedaling is important for optimal

performance in track cycling. This study characterized the brain

electrical activity during cyclic leg movements on a stationary bike.

We hypothesized that this movement is under the control of the motor

cortex. This information could be used to realize a bio-feedback

signal to improve performance.

ReferenceD’Addona V, Evangelista M, Viggiano D (2014) A new method for

quantitative tremor assessment in sports. Sport Orthop Traumatol

30:54–59

134 FF P

EEG correlates during pedaling

V. Delli Paoli, A. Iacobucci, D. Viggiano

Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Campobasso, Italy

Aim: Neural control of pedaling is important for optimal performance

in track cycling. This study characterized the brain electrical activity

during cyclic leg movements on a stationary bike. We hypothesized

that this movement is under the control of the motor cortex. This

information could be used to realize a bio-feedback signal to improve

performance.

Methods: Eight young healthy individuals (all males) participated in

this study. Subjects performed an active pedaling on a stationary bike

at a self determined velocity. During the movements, EEG signals

from the scalp were recorded using bipolar electrodes positioned on

the sensorimotor and visual cortex, while maintaining the head fixed

on a support and the eyes closed. Ensemble averaged waveforms were

analyzed and compared between two conditions: clockwise and

couterclockwise leg movements.

Results: The EEG waveform recorded over the Cz electrode (sen-

sorimotor cortex) showed alternate positive and negative potentials,

occurring during the pedaling cycle. The waveform of clockwise and

couter-clockwise movements differed as they were shifted by half a

cycle. The resulting slow EEG waves appeared to be constrained

either to the position of the pedal either to the direction of the

movement. Conversely, the visual cortex did not modify its activity

during the task.

Conclusion: These results demonstrated the substantial sensorimotor

processing occurring during alternating leg movements. This is the

first study demonstrating different EEG waves according to the

position of the pedal and the direction of movement, and may provide

support for future bio-feedback programs.

ReferencesJain S, Gourab K, Schindler-Ivens S, Schmit BD (2013). EEG during

pedaling: evidence for cortical control of locomotor tasks. Clin

Neurophysiol 24:379–390

Padulo J, Di Capua R, Viggiano D (2012) Pedaling time variability is

increased in dropped riding position. Eur J Appl Physiol

112:3161–3165

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aB-crystallin modulation after acute exercise in skeletal

muscle: the role of oxidative stress and fiber

composition

E. Grazioli1, I. Dimauro1, N. Mercatelli1, R. Barone2, F. Macaluso2,

S. Fittipaldi1, V. Di Felice2, D. Caporossi1

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Italy2Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical

Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Italy

Background: aB-crystallin (CRYAB) is a member of the small heat

shock proteins implicated in various biological functions, particularly

in skeletal muscle where it is involved in adaptive remodelling pro-

cesses, activation of gene transcription and stabilization of nascent

proteins.

Methods: In this research we analysed aB-crystallin’ response in

mouse gastrocnemius at 150 and 300 of recovery from an acute aerobic

exercise (1 h), correlating its modulation with oxidative stress level

and fiber composition, red (RG) and white gastrocnemius (WG).

Results: We found for the first time that the acute exercise lead to a

short term, specific increase of phospho-aB-crystallin level

(pCRYAB) in the RG, while no changes were observed in the WG.

Moreover, this induction was correlated with increased level of

4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), an aldehydic product of membrane lipid

peroxidation, with protein lysyl residues which is also an indelible

marker of oxidative stress. This increasing suggests a putative role for

oxidative stress in driving CRYAB but not hsp70 or hsp27, activity

during exercise. Any increased level of aB-crystallin’ protein was

observed neither in RG nor in WG. We also analyze proteins sensitive

to oxidative stress and involved in signaling: MnSOD, p-P38 and

NFKB, but their activity did not change after exercise.

Conclusion: Our results seem suggest a fiber-dependent role of

CRYAB, further experiments are in progress to clarify both the

molecular pathway driving CRYAB phosphorylation and its fiber-

specific induction after exercise-induced oxidative stress.

Acknowledgments: This work was supported by MIUR, PRIN 2012

grant.

ReferencesAdhikari AS, Singh BN, Rao KS, Rao CM (2011) aB-crystallin, a

small heat shock protein, modulates NF-jB activity in a

phosphorylation-dependent manner and protects muscle myoblasts

from TNF-a induced cytotoxicity. Biochim Biophys Acta

1813:1532–1542

Ito H, Kamei K, Iwamoto I, Inaguma Y, Kato K (2001) Regulation of

the levels of smallheat-shock proteins during differentiation of

C2C12 cells, Exp Cell Res 266:213–221

Singh BN, Rao KS, Ramakrishna T, Rangaraj N, Rao CM (2007)

Association of aB- Crystallin, a small heat shock protein, with

actin: role in modulating actin filament dynamics in vivo. J Mol

Biol 366:756–767

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Cortical control during cyclic hand movements: a pilot

EEG study

A. Iacobucci1, V. Delli Paoli1, M. Iacobucci2, D. Viggiano1

1Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Univ. Molise,

Campobasso, Italy2Department of Neurophysiopathology, ASREM Molise, Campobasso,

Italy

Aim: Cyclic arm movements are very important in several sports,

such as in box, dance, and gymnastics. This study characterized the

brain electrical activity during alternating arm movements. We

hypothesized that this movement involves the action of the motor

cortex. This information could be used to realize a bio-feedback

signal to improve performance.

Methods: Six young healthy individuals (4 males, 2 females) par-

ticipated in this study. Subjects performed a supine unconstrained

cyclic exercise moving the arms in a circular path at a self determined

velocity. Tracking of the hands was obtained using the Kinect 3D

sensor. During the movements, EEG signals from the scalp were

recorded using a 21 channels Brain-Quick Micromed system with

cap for electrode placement. Ensemble averaged waveforms were

analyzed and compared between two conditions: clockwise and

couterclockwise cyclic arm movements.

Results: The EEG waveform recorded over the Cz electrode (sen-

sorimotor cortex) showed alternate positive and negative potentials,

occurring during the pedaling cycle. The waveform of clockwise and

couter-clockwise movements differed as they were shifted by half a

cycle. Conversely, visual and temporal cortex did not modify their

activity during the task.

Conclusion: These results demonstrated the substantial sensorimotor

processing occurring during alternating arm movements. This is the first

study demonstrating the feasibility of EEG recording during these

movements, and may provide support for future bio-feedback programs.

ReferencesJain S, Gourab K, Schindler-Ivens S, Schmit BD (2013) EEG during

pedaling: evidence for cortical control of locomotor tasks. Clin

Neurophysiol 124:379–390

Padulo J, Di Capua R, Viggiano D (2012) Pedaling time variability is

increased in dropped riding position. Eur J Appl Physiol

112:3161–3165

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Variation of scrotal temperature in a group

of recreational road cyclists during 35 min on a drum

simulator at a constant power

G. Marcolin1, J. Zausa1, N. Petrone2, A. Paoli1

1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova,

Italy2Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova,

Padova, Italy

Aim: A testicular heat stress can have bad consequences on the

human spermatogenesis with a decrease of the semen quality. Tes-

ticular temperature is strongly correlated with scrotal temperature.

Several studies investigated the effect of several factors on the scrotal

temperature like the type of undertrousers. Only one study analyzed

the effect of cycling on scrotal temperature but the power output was

very low (25 W) and cyclists wore no technical lycra shorts. Aim of

the present study was to investigate the variation of the scrotal tem-

perature in road cyclists wearing technical padded shorts during a

bout of cycling on a drum simulator.

Method: 6 road cyclists were asked to perform 35 min (50 at

90 W + 300 at 125 W) of seated cycling on their own road bike fixed

on a RealPower drum simulator (Elite, Padova, Italy). They all wore

shorts with the same pad (Road Performance, CyTech, Treviso, Italy).

A thermistor temperature sensor was fixed with medical tape on the

cyclist scrotum recording temperature every 2 s by means of a ded-

icated data logger (Agilent Technologies HP 34970, Milano, Italy).

Heart rate was monitored. Laboratory temperature and relative

humidity were the same during all the tests.

Results: The mean increase of the scrotal temperature after 35 min of

pedaling was 0.8�. The peak temperature recorded was 36.2�. After

30 min the scrotal temperature reach a plateau without significantly

further changes.

Conclusion: Temperature recorded is in agreement with previous

investigations in such a way that moderate cycling with technical

shorts with pads should not be considered as a major genital heat

stress. Further investigations are needed to measure scrotal tempera-

ture in an outdoor environment at different cycling intensities, taking

into account the cooling effect the air has when pedaling on the road.

ReferencesHjollun NHI et al (2002) The relation between daily activities and

scrotal temperature. Reprod Toxicol 16:209–214

Jung A et al (2005) Influence of the type of undertrousers and physical

activity on scrotal temperature. Hum Reprod 20:1022–1027

Jung A et al (2007) Influence of moderate cycling on scrotal

temperature. Int J Androl 31:403–407

Morgentaler A et al (1999) Testis and temperature: an historical,

clinical, and research perspective. J Androl 20:89–95

Sommer F (2004) Effects of bicycling on the male genital tract.

Andrologia 36:150

138 FF P

Assessment of body composition and resting energy

expenditure in elite volley ball players

R. Sammarco1, M. Marra1, P. Chiappetti1, G. Esposito1, I. Frascaro1,

I. Cioffi1, F. Pasanisi1,2, F. Contaldo1,2

1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples

Federico II, Naples, Italy2Interuniversity Center of Obesity and Eating Disorders, University of

Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe resting energy expendi-

ture and body composition in elite volley ball players.

Method: We have studied 8 elite volley ball players and 22 female

controls (volley ball: age 22.7 ± 2.8 years, weight 64.0 ± 3.8 kg,

height 170 ± 5 cm, BMI 21.9 ± 1.2 kg/m2; controls: age

21.9 ± 2.5 years, weight 62.3 ± 1.8 kg, height 170 ± 4 cm, BMI

0.8 ± 0.7 kg/m2). All data were collected during the championship

2013–2014; body weight, body circumferences, skinfold thickness,

total and segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) variables

were evaluated in the morning. Resting Energy Expenditure (REE)

measurements have been obtained by indirect calorimetry (V-Max

Encore Care Perfusion). Body composition (Fat Free Mass: FFM; Fat

Mass: FAT) was evaluated by skinfold thickness (eq. Durnin-Wo-

mersley) while phase angle (PA, BIA) was used to estimate the

distribution of body water between the space intra/extracellular in

total body and limb (arms and legs).

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S61

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Results: REE resulted significantly higher in volley team than control

group (1,536 ± 133 vs. 1,310 ± 249 kcal/die; p \ 0.01). Body

composition did not result significantly different (FFM 46.3 ± 2.6 vs.

45.7 ± 2.7 kg; FAT 17.4 ± 2.6 vs. 17.0 ± 2.9 kg; FAT 27.2 ± 3.2

vs. 27.1 ± 4.4 %) between groups compared to controls. PA was

significantly higher for legs (total body 6.9 ± 0.4 vs. 6.0� ± 0.7�;

arms 4.9 ± 0.6 vs. 5.0� ± 0.7�; legs 8.7 ± 0.9 vs. 6.2� ± 0.9�) not

significantly different for total body and arms. Hand grip strength

(25.1 ± 1.7 kg) was correlated (r = 0.632; p = 0.003) with total

phase angle but not with FFM in volley team.

Conclusion: This preliminary study indicates a clear modification in

body water distribution in particular for legs whereas body compo-

sition (FFM and FAT) was not significantly different between groups.

ReferenceMarra M et al (2009) Bioelectrical impedance phase angle in

constitutionally lean females, ballet dancers and patients with

anorexia nervosa. Eur J Clin Nutr 63:905–908

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Anthropometric and physiological characteristics in

young soccer players in three different levels

R. Modena1,2,3, A. Pasini1,3,5, N. Varesco1,4, F. Schena1,2

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy2CeRiSM, Research Center of Sport, Mountain and Health, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy3A.C. Chievoverona, Verona, Italy4A.C. Mezzocorona, Trento, Italy5S.C.S.D. Pro Desenzano, Brescia, Italy

Aim: The purpose of our study was to assess how anthropometric and

physiological characteristics of young soccer players depend from

chronological age (CA) and competitive level (CL).

Method: In this study we have assessed anthropometric characteris-

tics such as weight and height, aerobic capacity by performance of

YoYo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIRT1), vertical jumps

height by monopodalic counter movement jump (M-CMJ) and max-

imal speed measuring the time in 20-m linear sprint and 10 + 10-m

shuttle sprint.

We have assessed 512 young soccer players (age 9–16 years) of three

Italian Team: Professional (Pr), Semi-Professional (S-Pr) and Ama-

teur (Am); the players were divided in 8 age category (U10–U17).

Results: The stature and the weight rise with increasing CA with

similar trend in different team but there aren’t differences in these two

characteristics among different CL. Also the distance covered in

YYIRT1 increase in each category from U10 to U17; this growth is

sharp between U14 and U15 in Pr (1,118.4 ± 449.1 m vs. 1,987.8 ±

650.9 m) and S-Pr (924.7 ± 274.9 m vs. 1,555 ± 474.5 m) and

between U16 and U17 in Am (1,156.9 ± 318.1 m vs. 1,446.7 m ±

329.6 m). The trend of YYIRT1 performance during growth shows

significant difference between Am and other CL. Considering all

players the M-CMJ shows increment in every age-category and the

difference is significant between U10 and U11 (11.92 ± 2.69 cm vs.

13.85 ± 2.69 cm), U13 and U14 (15.14 ± 4.52 cm vs. 18.67 ±

3.23 cm), U16 and U17 (24.16 ± 4.65 cm vs. 26.8 ± 4.26 cm). From

U12 t o U16 we found significant differences in M-CMJ between

different CL. Also 20 m-sprint and 10 + 10 m-sprint improve signifi-

cantly through age-category from U12 to U17. There are significant

differences in 20 m-sprint between CL in every age-category but not in

U15 and U16; also in 10 + 10 m-sprint there are significant differences

between CL but not in U15, U16 and U17.

Conclusion: This study show that anthropometric characteristics

discriminate CA but not CL, YYIRT1 and M-CMJ discriminate both

CA and CL for every age-category and Sprint Test discriminates both

CA and CL for younger age-category.

ReferencesReilly T et al (2000) Anthropometric and physiological predisposi-

tions for elite soccer. J Sport Sci 8:669–683

Gissis I et al (2006) Strength and speed characteristic of elite, sub

elite, and recreational young soccer players. Res Sports Med

14:205–214

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Tremor assessment in soccer players

F. Panzera, V. D’Addona, D. Viggiano

Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Campobasso, Italy

Aim: The physiological tremor consists in an involuntary oscilla-

tion of the limbs, in the range of 10 Hz, which is generated in part

from supraspinal brain structures. Its quantitative assessment in the

sport science is relevant for sports requiring ability and for the

assessment of fatigue. However, the measurement of tremor is not

yet entered in standard sports medicine practice because expensive

and complex instrumentations are needed. We exploited a novel

simple device for tremor measurement to assess tremor levels in

soccer players.

Methods: Eleven professional soccer players (9 males, 2 females),

eighteen normal controls (8 males, 10 females) and professional piano

players (4 males, 3 females) were asked to maintain with the dominant

hand a Wiimote triaxial accelerator, pointing a fixed target for a mini-

mum of 60 s. The conversion of Bluetooth data sent by the Wiimote in a

final file containing the accelerometer information has been obtained

using a custom script in GlovePie environment. The analysis of the

predominant frequency band was done in R environment.

Results: The analysis of tremor intensity in the three groups showed

that male soccer players had lower tremor intensity compared to

controls. Their tremor intensity at the frequency of 10 Hz was similar

to piano players, which are known to present better motor control and

reduced physiological tremor. Conversely, tremor intensity in female

subjects was comparable across the three groups.

Conclusion: This is the first study to demonstrate the substantial

reduction of tremor intensity in soccer players, to a level comparable

to piano players. Therefore, a potential interpretation is that the better

motor control is correlated to a lower tremor level. This may be useful

to realize new biofeedback systems for performance enhancement in

soccer players.

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ReferenceD’Addona V, Evangelista M, Viggiano D (2014) A new method for

quantitative tremor assessment in sports. Sport Orthop Traumatol

30:54–59

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Tendon vibration combined with rTMS can reinforce

a pattern of unbalanced M1 excitability between agonist

and antagonist muscles

L. Perasso1, L. Avanzino1, G. Lagravinese1, A. Giannini1, E. Faelli1,

A. Bisio1, A. Quartarone2, V. Rizzo2, P. Ruggeri1, M. Bove1

1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Italy2Department of Neuroscience, University of Messina, Italy

Aim: The aim of the study was to verify whether it is possible to

reinforce a pattern of unbalanced primary motor cortex (M1) excit-

ability between agonist and antagonist muscles by combining

proprioceptive vibration with a concomitant facilitatory rTMS

(repetitive Transcranic Magnetic Stimulation) protocol.

Method: Eighteen subjects were recruited for this study. M1 excit-

ability was evaluated by motor evoked potentials (MEPs) measured

on Extensor Carpi Radialis muscle (ECR group, N = 10) and on

Flexor Carpi Radialis muscle (FCR group, N = 8) after transcranic

magnetic stimulation (TMS) on M1 of both muscles. The tendon of

the FCR muscle was vibrated for 2 min (80 Hz frequency). 15 MEPs

were recorded before the vibration (PRE), and 15 MEPs 15 and

30 min after the vibration (POST 15, POST 30). The rTMS protocol

consisted of a train of 600 stimuli at 90 % of active motor threshold

(AMT) of the ECR and FCR muscles with a frequency of 5 Hz.

We designed four protocols:1. Vibration: 2 min of vibration without rTMS.

2. rTMS on ECR and FCR hot spot without vibration.

3. Vibration + rTMS on ECR hot spot.

4. Vibration + rTMS on FCR hot spot.

Results: We found that the protocols 1 and 2 did not induce statis-

tically significant changes in M1 excitability. Considering the ECR

group, in the protocol 3, M1 excitability showed a significant decrease

compared with the baseline both in POST 15 and in POST 30

(p = 0.01), while the protocol 4 caused a statistically significant

increase in M1 excitability respect to the baseline in POST 15

(p = 0.05) and a trend of diminution in POST 30. Considering FCR

group in the protocol 3 data showed a statistically significant increase

in M1 excitability respect to the baseline both in POST 15 and in

POST 30 (p = 0.05). Protocol 4 did not induce any significant dif-

ference in M1 excitability.

Conclusion: Our finding highlights the close relationship between

proprioception, the sensory feedback mechanism for motor control,

and the excitability of cortical motor areas. We demonstrated that

combining tendon vibration with a conditioning facilitatory rTMS

protocol induces a pattern of unbalanced M1 excitability between

the vibrated muscle and its antagonist that persisted up to 30 min

and is greater than that observed when vibration is administered

alone.

ReferencesKito T (2006) Brain Res 1114:75–84

Naito E (2002) Neuron 36:979–988

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RSA, CMJ, Leger, 10 m sprint responses to pre-season

training in semi-professional soccer players

F. Perroni1, L. Cignitti2, G. Ascenzi3, L. Guidetti4, C. Baldari4

1School of Exercise and Sport Sciences (SUISM), Department

of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy2Sports Activities Office, Firefighters Corp, Rome, Italy3Football Performance and Science Department, ASPIRE Academy

for Sports Excellence, Doha, Qatar4Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze RSA, CMJ, Leger, 10 m

sprint responses to Pre-season Training in Semi-Professional Soccer

Players (SPSP). Considering that numerous studies highlighted the

combination of high levels of physical, technical and tactical skills

during a soccer match, the cure of physical training pose a particular

attention on training load that generally increases up to 2.4 times

during the pre-season period compared with the in-season.

Methods: Six SPSP (age 23 ± 7 years, BMI 23.3 ± 1.8) were

requested to perform aerobic training over an 8-week period on alternate

days with the functional strength training sessions and sprint training

drills as prescribed by the coaches and strength and conditioning staff.

Repeated Sprint Ability [RSA, total time (TT) and percentage of fatigue

index (%FI)], Leger, 10 m sprint and Counter Movement Jump (CMJ)

tests, were performed before and after pre-season soccer training.

ANOVA for repeated measures was conducted to assess differences

(p \ 0.05) with respect to pre seasonal training. Correlation was cal-

culated between the percentage of variation (D) of each test.

Results: Compared to the values recorded before the pre-season,

improvement of Leger (3 %) and %FI (17.6 %) and a deterioration of

TT (10 %), 10 m sprint (0.2 %) and CMJ (2.4 %) were found. In

addition, we have found a main effect between before and after pre-

seasonal training in TT (F(1,4) = 60.2; p = 0.001) and Leger

(F(1,5) = 25; p \ 0.005). DCMJ showed very large correlation with

DLeger (r = -0.88) and nearly perfect with D%FI (r = 0.93); while

DLeger was largely correlated with D%FI (r = -0.69).

Conclusion: Given that the cure of the physical preparation is consid-

ered as an important element in order to influence the final soccer game

result, this study want to be useful information for the coach in order to

maximize the best physical condition of the whole team relative to the

beginning of the regular season.

ReferencesBloomfield J et al (2007) Physical demands of different positions in

FA Premier League Soccer. J Sports Sci 6:63–70

Di Salvo V et al (2007) Performance characteristics according to

playing position in elite soccer. Int J Sports Med 28:222–227

Jeong TS et al (2011) Quantification of the physiological loading of

one week of ‘‘pre-season’’ and one week of ‘‘in-season’’ training in

professional soccer players. J Sports Sci 29:1161–1166

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S63

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Hand grip in schoolchildren: a cross-sectional study

M. Micheletti Cremasco1,2, S. D’Andria2, L. Pizzigalli2,3

1Department of Life Science and Systems Biology, University

of Torino, Torino, Italy2SUISM, University of Torino, Torino, Italy3Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

University of Torino, Torino, Italy

Aim: Hand grip strength has been shown to be a predictor of general

body strength and an important index of health condition in school-

children. Moreover, this strength test is also used to evaluate motor

skills in childhood. However, it remains unclear the grip strength trend

during growth in children and adolescents and its relationship with

body-mass index (BMI) and the practice of physical activity. There-

fore, the primary purpose of this study was to determine whether grip

strength is influenced by these two factors in schoolchildren. The

second purpose was to fill the gap of an Italian reference database,

developing reference charts for hand grip strength for boys and girls

from 7 to 17 y.o. and also to facilitate comparison to patients’ values.

Method: This cross-sectional study was performed at primary and

secondary schools (176 females, F and 150 males, M). Body height,

weight and BMI were measured. Isometric grip strength of both hands

was measured with a handheld dynamometer (Baseline Digital

Smedley Dynamometer type EN-120286).

Results: Data show that grip strength of both hands increases with

age in both genders but boys are stronger than girls (+2 kg) only from

the age of 12.50 y.o. (p \ 0.05). This difference is more evident from

the age of 14.50 y.o. (p \ 0.001). No statistical differences where

reported between the two hands in both genders. Both BMI and

physical activity show a poor correlation with grip strength in both

genders (R = 0.5), even if the overweigh males report high levels of

hand grip strength.

Conclusion: Hand strength peak in males could be associated to their

hormonal peak typical of puberal age. Finally, during childhood to be

underweight, overweight or obese do not influence significantly the

hand grip strength such as the practice of recreational sports. From the

analysis of our data about the increase of grip strength in relation to

the gender and the age, could be suggested in physical activity a

different muscular training to increase hand grip strength beginning

from the adolescence.

ReferencesEUROFIT. Committee of Experts on Sports Research (1993) Hand-

book for the EUROFIT tests of physical fitness. Council of Europe,

Strasburg, pp 19–37

Wind AE, Takken T, Helders PJ, Engelbert RH (2010) Is grip strength

a predictor for total muscle strength in healthy children, adoles-

cents, and young adults? Eur J Pediatr 169(3):281–287

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An experimental, marker-free benchmark to study

the interception of moving objects in karate

G. Romano, C. Zullo, D. Viggiano

Aim: Karate requires an optimal interception of the opponent’s

attack. Particularly in unconstrained situations, normal, untrained,

subjects solve this problem adopting rather different solutions. It is

currently unknown if karatekas show a more uniform selection of

interception schemes due to their special training. Here we applied a

3D scanner to study the movement reproducibility of skilled karatekas

in a natural setup, using an unconstrained interception task.

Methods: Six right handed karatekas and six controls participated to

the study. 3D motion tracking data of the upper limbs were obtained

using the Microsoft Kinect sensor, a real-time 3D scanner. The

interception task consisted of intercepting and stopping a moving

stick which was directed towards the side of the subject in two dif-

ferent positions (upper and lower).

Results: The analysis of hand trajectories showed that the strategy of

the movement was remarkably different between control subjects,

whereas it was more uniform in karatekas. Moreover, we observed a

significant difference in the variability of the interception point

between control subjects and karatekas.

Conclusion: The results confirm the presence of individual idiosyn-

cratic behavior in interception tasks also in ecologically realistic

situations, and that experience and training (as in karatekas) play an

important role in the trajectory in interceptive tasks.

ReferenceRomano G, Viggiano D (2014) Interception of moving objects in

karate: an experimental, marker-free benchmark. Muscles Liga-

ments Tendons J (accepted)

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Differences in foot plantar pressures and gait strategies

in top level soccer and basketball players: pilot study

L. Russo1,2, R. Benis3, G. Grazzini2, L. Barni2, F. Bruni2,

R. Contigliani2, M. L. Marasco2

1Department of Applied and Clinical Science and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy2Assist Team,3Department of Biomedical Science for Health Physical Education

at the University of Milan, Milan, Italy

Aim: Foot plantar pressure measurement is a reliable method to study

characteristics and movement patterns of the foot. This procedure of

measurement is also able to distinguish different kind of foot type.

The aim of this pilot study was to compare the static and dynamic foot

plantar pressure on top level soccer (SP) and basketball (BP) players

and to find out sport-specific differences and adaptations.

Method: Twenty-four male A-series soccer players (26.9 ± 5.6

years; 183 ± 6.3 cm; 77.1 ± 9.3 kg) and ten male A2-series bas-

ketball players (26 ± 6.2 years; 196.6 ± 9.1 cm; 92.6 ± 10.7 kg)

were tested both in static (ST) and dynamic (DY) conditions with a

foot plantar pressure measurement device (Sensor Medica, Guidonia-

RM, Italy). Classical foot plantar pressure measurement and loading

distribution were taken into account. Both static and dynamic pressure

surfaces were normalized for the number of the shoe to compare

measurements. Data were normally distributed and a paired and an

unpaired t test was used for statistical analysis. Significant level was

set at a p value \0.05.

Results: BP were significantly taller and heavier than SP, the shoe

number was also significantly bigger in BP respect to SP. Any significant

difference was found between and within groups in foot plantar pressure

measurements for the ST condition. In DY condition both groups showed

an higher and significant load on the foot lateral edge, BP showed an

higher supination of the right foot and a better flexion-extention ratio of

the left foot respect SP. SP showed an higher pressure surface of the right

foot respect the left one. In ST condition each group showed an higher

feet pressure surface and a lower foot angle respect DY condition.

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Conclusion: Despite the little BP sample of this pilot study, foot plantar

pressure measurement procedures seem to be useful to discriminate the

dynamic characteristics of the gait between BP and SP. Future studies

with big samples are needed to better understand this issue.

ReferencesGurney JK et al (2008) Between-day reliability of repetead plantar

pressure distribution measurements in a normal population. Gait

Posture 27:706–709

Stolwijk NM et al (2013) Flat feet, happy feet? Comparison of the

dynamic plantar pressure distribution and static medial foot geom-

etry between Malawian and Dutch adults. PLoS ONE 8(2):e57209

146 FF P

Body composition and resting energy expenditure

of an elite water polo team

R. Sammarco1, M. Marra1, P. Turiello1, P. Chiappetti1, I. Cioffi1,

F. Pasanisi1,2, F. Contaldo1,2

1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples

Federico II, Naples, Italy2Interuniversity Center of Obesity and Eating Disorders, University of

Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy

Aim: Water polo is a dynamic and intermittent team sport, requiring a

high anaerobic effort. In the pool, players swim from an extreme to

the other of the swimming-pool and perform high-intensity actions,

such as jumping, wrestling and sprinting. This study evaluated resting

energy expenditure and body composition in an elite water polo team

national first league.

Method: The elite water polo team formed by 10 male players

(23.8 ± 6.1 years, weight 89 ± 5.2 kg, height 185 ± 3 cm, BMI

25.9 ± 1.9 kg/m2) and 16 controls (25.8 ± 8.8 years, weight

82.2 ± 6.3 kg, height 179 ± 5 cm, BMI 25.7 ± 2.3 kg/m2) was

studied. Data were collected during the championship 2013–2014;

body weight, hand grip muscle strength (Jamar dynamometer) and

segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) variables were

measured early in the morning. Resting Energy Expenditure (REE)

was measured by indirect calorimetry (V-Max Encore Care Perfu-

sion). Body composition (Fat Free Mass: FFM, Fat Mass: FAT) was

evaluated by BIA (Kushner equation) while phase angle (PA) was use

to estimate the body water distribution between the intra/extracellular

spaces in total body and limb (arms and legs).

Results: REE measured and corrected for FFM (REE/FFM kcal/kg/day)

was significantly (p \ 0.05) higher than control group (REE

2,255 ± 297 1,936 ± 256 kcal/d; REE/FFM 31.3 ± 4.2 vs. 29.3 ±

1.9 kcal/kg). FFM resulted (p \ 0.05) higher in water polo team than

control group (FFM 74.4 ± 4.1 vs. 65.9 ± 7.2 kg) whereas FAT mass

resulted lower (p \ 0.05) in water polo team than control group (FAT

14.6 ± 2.8 vs. 16.3 ± 4.1 kg; 16.3 ± 2.6 vs. 19.9 ± 5.1 %). Phase

angle was significantly (p \ 0.05) higher in water polo team than control

group (PA: total 8.1 ± 0.6 vs. 6.8� ± 0.6�; legs 9.3 ± 0.5 vs.

6.7� ± 1.0�; arms 6.2 ± 0.6 vs. 5.5� ± 0.5�). Mean Hand grip maximal

strength (48.2 ± 2.9 kg) was correlated (r = 0.762; p = 0.01) with

FFM but not with phase angle (r = 0.762; p = 0.01).

Conclusion: This preliminary study indicates a clear modification

both in body water distribution (total and limb), both body compo-

sition (FFM and FAT) and REE in absolute values also after

correction with FFM.

ReferencesMarra et al (2014) Body composition changes in professional cyclists

during the 2011 Giro d’Italia, a 3-week stage race. Nutr Ther Metab

32:31–34

Marra M et al (2009) Bioelectrical impedance phase angle in

constitutionally lean females, ballet dancers and patients with

anorexia nervosa. Eur J Clin Nutr 63:905–908

147 FF P

A native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis method

for studying the interaction between p53

and its protein ligands

R. Sgammato1, A. Lamberti1, D. Desiderio2, C. Punzo3,

A. Carotenuto3, M. Masullo1

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise,

Pesche (IS), Italy3Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples,

Italy

Aim: The oncosuppressor p53 is a transcription factor regulating

many cellular mechanisms, whose activity is downregulated by the

human homologue of the mouse double minute protein 2 (MDM2)

and/or 4 (MDMX). In particular, the effect is based on the interaction

between the N-terminal transactivation domain of p53 and the

N-terminal hydrophobic pockets of MDM2 and/or MDMX. The role

of p53 in the mitochondrial content of skeleton-muscles, in a minor

oxygen consumption, in an increased lactate production, and in state 3

respiration in intermyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal mitochondria,

was found. The aim of this study was to set-up a new analytical

method to study the interaction between p53 transactivation domain

and the N-terminal fragments of MDM2 and/or MDMX, a pre-req-

uisite to investigate the effect of several dissociators of the MDM2

p53 and MDMX p53 complexes.

Method: The p53, MDM2 and MDMX protein fragments were het-

erologously expressed in E. coli. Proteins were extracted from

inclusion bodies by urea treatment, purified by affinity chromatog-

raphy on Ni-agarose and renaturated by dialysis. Complex formation/

dissociation was assessed by non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel-

electrophoresis (PAGE).

Results: Our method is based on the finding that on native PAGE at

pH 8.8, purified p53 fragment did not migrate, whereas both MDM2

and MDMX enter the gel. When a complex is formed also MDM2 and

MDMX did not enter the gel. MDM2 but not MDMX can be disso-

ciated from the complex using Nutlin 3a; therefore, this method can

be used to study the stoichiometry of the binding as well as the effect

of dissociating compounds.

Conclusion: A new PAGE method for studying the interaction

between p53 and its protein ligands was settled. Although other

analytical methods have been used for similar studies, such as Surface

Plasmon Resonance and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, our method is

simpler other than cheaper. We propose this method to assess the

effect of other dissociators of the p53 MDM2 and p53 MDMX

complexes, including those involved in the development of muscle

tissue as well as in the physical exercise.

ReferencesMatoba S et al (2006) p53 regulates mitochondrial respiration.

Science 16:1650–1653

Park J-Y et al (2009) p53 improves aerobic exercise capacity and

augments skeletal muscle mitochondrial DNA content. Circ Res

25:705–712

Saleem A et al (2009) Role of p53 in mitochondrial biogenesis and

apoptosis in skeletal muscle. Physiol Genom 3:58–66

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S65

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Ultrasound-based index of sarcopenia and correlation

with skeletal muscle mass estimation by bioelectrical

impedence analysis

P. Vago1, F. Cereda1, S. Longo2, F. Casolo1, M. Narici3

1Department of Pedagogy, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di

Milano, Italy2Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy3Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine,

University of Nottingham, UK

Aim: The aim of this study was to introduce a new, ultrasound-based

method for diagnosing sarcopenia and test its validity against a

conventional, clinically used method based on bioelectrical imped-

ance analysis (BIA).

Method: 24 participants (13 men and 11 women), aged 65–83 years,

were recruited for this study. Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was esti-

mated by BIA as described by Janssen et al. (2002). The ultrasound-

based evaluation of sarcopenia was obtained from a sagittal image of

the vastus lateralis muscle acquired in the lower third of the muscle

belly using a linear probe (13–14 MHz) with an Esaote Mylab 25

ultrasound machine. For each ultrasound image, fascicle length (Lf)

and muscle thickness (Tm) were measured using the Java-based

image analysis software ImageJ (National Institute of Health). Indi-

viduals were classified as sarcopenic if the Lf/Tm ratio was [4.38

corresponding to the cut-off value of 1-SD above the mean of a young

adult reference population (Narici et al. 2011). The data were ana-

lysed with descriptive statistics and with the Spearman correlation

coefficient.

Results: Mean BMI was 26.5 (±3.7) in men and 24.7 (±3.5) in

women; Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34.3 (±3.2) in men and 30.8

(±4.9) in women. With the BIA method, a total of 6 individuals were

classified as sarcopenic (prevalence of 25 %) and 18 individuals as

non-sarcopenic and. Using the ultrasound method, 8 individuals were

classified as sarcopenic (prevalence of 33 %) and 16 as non-sarcope-

nic. The ultrasound method for diagnosing sarcopenia was found to be

significantly correlated with the BIA method (r = 0.4, p \ 0.03),

indicating that with decreasing muscle mass, alterations in muscle

architecture occur as muscle thickness decreases more than fascicle

length, i.e. the higher the Lf/Tm ratio, the greater the sarcopenia.

Conclusion: The results obtained in the present study show that the

ultrasound-based method for diagnosing sarcopenia is, (1) signifi-

cantly correlated with the widely used BIA-based method, and (2)

able to detect a greater prevalence of sarcopenia than the BIA-based

method because is muscle-specific. The ‘sarcopenia index’ obtained

by ultrasound thus seems to be a useful biomarker for diagnosing

sarcopenia and may represent a useful clinical application.

ReferencesJanssen I, Heymsfield S, Ross R (2002) Low relative skeletal muscle

mass (sarcopenia) in older persons is associated with functional

impairment and physical disability. JAGS 50:889–896

Narici M, Trisolino G, Bracci G, Seynnes et al (2011) Age-related

changes in muscle architecture: a signature of sarcopenia. J Muscle

Res Cell Motil 32:327–373

149 FF P

Wii Balance Board as a device for investigating kayak’s

biomechanics: a pilot study

S. Vando1, L. P. Ardigo2, D. Masala1, L. Falese1, J. Padulo3,4

1Department of Human, Social and Health Sciences, University

of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy2Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy3University ‘‘eCampus’’, Novedrate, Italy4Tunisian Research Laboratory ‘‘Sports Performance Optimization’’,

National Center of Medicine and Science in Sport, Tunis, Tunisia

Aim: Considering the validated use of the Wii Balance Board

(WBB) as an effective device for assessing the postural sway, we

believe that WBB can be used during kayaking too. This may prompt

to a simple way to estimate 2D velocity and mechanical work at seat

(Ws). The power developed by the paddler is transferred to the kayak

through the application of forces against foot bar and seat. The seat

is fixed in the propulsive direction and contributes to the net pro-

pulsive force.

Method: One international male kayaker (35 y, 1.82 m, 76 kg) per-

formed 3–100 m sprints on an Olympic K1 kayak with a WBB

(100 Hz) modified as seat at 1.01, 1.18 and 1.54 Hz paddling fre-

quency (freq). Kayak’s velocity was clocked. 2D antero-posterior and

medio-lateral COP positions over time were firstly used to calculate

its instantaneous velocity (v). Then v was put into the mechanical

kinetic energy equation: Ek = � m v2, with m as subject’s mass. By

assuming (a) seat force rigidly transferred to kayak, (b) most of the

weight supported by the seat and (c) negligible contribute to subject’s

kinematics due to the reciprocating upper arms movement during

paddling, (positive) DEk resembles athlete’s centre of pressure (COP)

Ws and—through just a constant displacement offset—his body

centre of mass (BCOM) Ws as well.

Results: Kayak’s velocity increased (+23 % with respect to lowest

value) linearly (r = 0.99) over freq. Due to COP kinematics over

increasing freq, COP (and BCOM) Ws increased linearly (r = 0.96)

over kayak’s velocity as well (+50 and +100 %, respectively). Such a

specific variables’ combined change could prompt to develop new

efficiency indexes to support different level kayakers to optimize their

paddling technique. Such an ecological approach could be useful for

Ws analysis in kayak-ergometer too.

Conclusion: The results of this pilot study are promising. Further

athletes of different racing level could be investigated by means of

the described methodological approach during both training and

race. The study of COP and BCOM biomechanics could reveal to be

helpful for both improving performance and reducing injury in

kayaking.

ReferencesClark RA et al (2010) Validity and reliability of the Nintendo Wii

Balance Board for assessment of standing balance. Gait Posture

31:307–310

Michael JS et al (2009) Determinants of kayak paddling performance.

Sports Biomech 8:167–179

Shephard RJ (1987) Science and medicine of canoeing and kayaking.

Sports Med 4:19–33

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Evaluation of flight time in the working volume

of the athletic jump

R. Scaramucci, M. G. Vinciguerra

Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine, in a lower limbs training

program, an assessment of the volume of empirical work less than that

which is commonly in use today.

Method: Through the use of the Bosco System platform is possible to

evaluate, in a jump, the time of flight (and the feet contact time the to

the ground), multiplying this result by the programmed jumps num-

ber, you will get the total flight time of a jumps series. This is the

mathematical total of volume work,

Results: This method allows to determine a volume of work is always

the same because determined by the total flight time, otherwise,

considering only the jumps number you don’t have a same working

volume, because the jumps will never be all the same.

Conclusion: This study, pilot, determine to provide to the trainers a

more careful strategy application for the training program, based on

mathematical elements.

ReferencesBosco C (2002) La forza muscolare. Aspetti fisiologici ed applicaz-

ioni pratiche, Societa Stampa Sportiva Roma

Dal Monte A, Faina M (1999) Evaluation of the athlete: functional

analysis and biomechanics of performance capability

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Influence of chronotype on the circadian rhythm

of activity levels

J. Vitale, E. Roveda, A. Montaruli, L. Galasso, A. Caumo, F. Carandente

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate, by an actigraph moni-

toring, the differences in the circadian rhythm of activity level in

relation to the chronotype for the sake of studying its influence on

physical performance. There are three different chronotypes: Morn-

ing-type (M-type), Evening-type (E-types) and Neither-type (N-type);

M-types use to wake up and go to bed early and to have their best

performances in the first part of the day, otherwise E-types go to bed

and wake up late and they have the peak performances in the evening.

Method: we recruited 50 subjects (mean age = 21.3, SD = 2.37):

16 M-types, 15 N-types and 19 E-types to undertake a 7-days mon-

itoring with the actigraph. To evaluate the circadian rhythmicity of

activity levels we used the single cosinor method and we define three

parameters characteristic of each statistically significant rhythm: M,

MESOR; A, Amplitude; /, acrophase. The population circadian

characteristics were determined and then compared using the Ho-

telling test.

Results: Rhythmometric analysis, with the single cosinor method, on

the activity data collected by the actigraph revealed a statistically

significant circadian rhythm (p \ 0.001) for all the 50 subjects. The

population mean cosinors were calculated grouping the different

chronotypes: M-types, E-types and N-types (p \ 0.001). The Ho-

telling test showed no statistical differences about MESOR for all

group combinations (p [ 0.05) but a significant difference (p \ 0.05)

was observed if considering the Amplitude-Acrophase test for all

groups combinations, in particular M-types had an early acrophase of

the circadian rhythm of the activity levels, at 14.37, while E-types

showed an acrophase with more than 2 h late, at 17.04 (p \ 0.001);

the group of N-types showed an intermediate acrophase, at 15.45,

between morning-types and evening-types.

Conclusion: We can assume that there is a clear difference between

‘‘larks’’ and ‘‘owls’’: M-types are more active in the early afternoon

and that E-types have the peak of their activity in the late afternoon.

Further studies are needed to better understand if and how the chro-

notype influence a physical performance.

ReferencesHalberg F, Carandente F, Cornelissen G, Katinas GS (1977) Glossary

of chronobiology. Chronobiologia 4(Suppl. 1):1–189

Vitale JA, Calogiuri G, Weydahl A (2013) Influence of chronotype on

responses to a standardized, self-paced walking task in the morning

vs. afternoon: a pilot study. Percept Mot Skills 116(3):1020–1028

RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGYAPPLIED TO MATERIALS FOR SPORT

152 RT O

BIA segmental parameters changes in professional

cyclists during the Giro d’Italia (2012) 3-weeks stage

race

M. Marra1, R. Sammarco1, B. Da Prat3, C. Montagnese1, A. Caldara1,

M. Silvestri1, V. Amato1, F.Contaldo1, R. Corsetti4

1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico

II, Naples, Italy2Interuniversity Center of Obesity and Eating Disorders3Nutrition Division of DS Medica Srl, Milan, Italy4Liquigas Cannondale Medical Board, Sesto al Reghena, Pordenone,

Italy

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate possible BIA modifications in

professional cyclists participating at Giro d’Italia (2012) 3-weeks

stage race.

Method: The team of 9 professional cyclists of Pro Cycling Team

Liquigas Cannondale (age 28.8 ± 3.5 years, weight 70.2 ± 5.6 kg,

height 182 ± 5.3 cm, BMI 21.2 ± 1.5 kg/m2) participated to the

study. Data were collected the day immediately before starting the

competition (baseline), the day of rest (after the 9th lap) and the last

day of the competition (21th lap). Body weight, height, and bio-

electrical impedance analysis (BIA) variables were measured. BIA

parameters evaluated were: (1) Bioimpedance Index (BI = height2/

resistance cm2/ohms), used to estimate body composition (Kushner

equations) and (2) Phase Angle (PA = arctan reactance/resistance

degree) used to estimate body water distribution between intra/

extracellular space. All BIA measures were performed in total body

and limbs (arms and legs).

Results: Body weight (70.2 ± 5.6 vs. 69.5 ± 5.7 kg) and body

composition (FFM = Fat Free Mass: 63.1 ± 5.6 vs. 63.4 ± 5.7 kg;

FM = Fat Mass: 7.1 ± 1.6 vs. 6.1 ± 1.2 kg) did not significantly

differ at the beginning and at the 21th lap of the race. From the

beginning to the end of the competition, Phase Angle (PA) signifi-

cantly decreased for total body (7.57� ± 0.53� vs. 7.27�) and legs

(9.12 ± 0.51 vs. 8.35� ± 0.58�) whilst did not change for arms

(5.79� ± 0.52� vs. 5.88� ± 0.89�).

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S67

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Conclusion: This preliminary study indicates a clear modification in

total body water distribution in a team of professional cyclists during

a 21 laps, 3 weeks stage-race. Segmental BIA showed a decreased PA

(reflecting intracellular water reduction) for total body and legs. BIA

measurements could be useful in the monitoring of body composition

in long races athletes.

ReferencesMarra et al (2014) Body composition changes in professional cyclists

during the 2011 Giro d’Italia, a 3-week stage race. Nutr Ther Metab

32:31–34

Silva AM et al (2011) Relationship between changes in total-body

water and fluid distribution with maximal forearm strength in elite

judo athletes. J Strength Cond Res 25:2488–2495

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The effectiveness of Diabetic sock Mico Sport to prevent

the main events in the cohort of athletes with type 1

diabetes (T1DM) and contributing to the improvement

of sports performance

C. De Fazio, M. Corigliano, V. Russo, G. Corigliano

Diabetologic Unit A.I.D. ASL NA 1, Naples, Italy

Aim: T1DM Athletes have an increased risk of developing fungal

infections (Tignea pedis), are more prone to neurovascular complica-

tions of the foot (cracks, fissures, hyperkeratosis, ulcers, etc.) and more

resistant to treatment regimens due to glyco-metabolic alterations. The

aim of this study is to prevent the main events (state of dehydration and

dryness of the skin) observed during a training session of a cohort of

sportsman T1DM, especially in the case of prolonged exercise (E).

Method: 10 runners (group A) and 17 players (group B) T1DM, with

a fair metabolic control (HbA1c 7.2 ± 0.5), wore the Diabetic socks

Mico Sport, both during sporting events promoted by ANIAD both

during training (A) or post-E (B) with a duration of treatment (A:

45 days, B: 30 days) depending on the frequency of weekly workouts

(A: 3–4 days, B: 4–6 days) but with the same daily duration C8 h.

The socks were treated every 1–3 days with a glycoprotein derived

from bacterium Pseudoalteromonas atlantica who was continuously

released, by to an innovative system based on the use of nanotech-

nology, physiological recovery of skin hydration and reparation.

Using the Borg scale for the perception of fatigue.

Results: T1DM athletes, even in high humidity climates, have reported

an improvement in the state of the skin of the foot on average after

10 ± 5 days, in terms of: to fit comfort (flat seams and excellent tran-

spiration); lack of olfactory residue (anti- odor); good transpiration

during the E and skin condition at the end of training (A); restoring skin

integrity and total effective protective function of the skin (B); hydra-

tion, elasticity and cellular renewal; reduction of fatigue perception.

Conclusion: In T1DM athletes Diabetic sock Mico Sport, treated

with DIFOPREV�, may be a useful adjunct for the treatment of skin

injury prevention but can also contribute to a more effective sports

performance, for its properties to make the skin more elastic, better

protected from physical, chemical and traumatic insults, and

decreased perception of fatigue.

ReferencesPiaggesi A, Iacopi E, Banchellini E, Ambrosini Nobili L (2012)

Nanotechnology and nanomedicine in diabetes. In: Le L-H, Hunter

RH, Preedy VR (eds) Science Publisher, pp 365–379

Piaggesi A, Rizzo L, Tedeschi A, Scatena A, Goretti C, Del PratoS

(2009) Measurements in diabetic foot. Publ J Wound Technol.

Edition MF, Paris

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Correlation between knee stiffness and injury risk

factors in different foot-surface impact conditions

in marathon runners

F. Gennaro1, D. Formicola1,2, A. Rainoldi1,2

1SUISM, University of Turin, Turin, Italy2Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

University of Turin, Turin, Italy

Aim: Endurance running contributed to human evolution originally

due to survival needs; nowadays such a physical activity is largely

practiced for its huge positive health effects, despite its risk of injuries

mainly located at knee joint.Several factors where often considered as

possible running injury risks and among them the role of knee joint

stiffness (Kstiff) seems not well explained. Thus the purpose of this

study is to correlate Kstiff with knee injury risk factors in different

foot-surface conditions.

Method: 10 marathon runners were recruited and the following

variables were analyzed: anthropometric data; training data; lower

legs musculoskeletal injury history (IH); Oxford Knee Score (OKS)

questionnaire; Kstiff. Kstiff was measured by a ground reaction forces

biomechanical analysis of a single leg hop test (SLHT), performed in

both shoes and barefoot conditions, hopping from a stabilometric

platform and landing on an experimental structure, assembled with

both synthetic (Linoleum or Tartan) and natural (Grass or Sand)

surfaces. All statistics were performed by using Spearman Correlation

(a = 0.05).

Results: We found high and positive correlation between Kstiff and

OKS (r = 0.941, p = 0.005) in Shoes-Tartan condition when

grouping for positive IH. Furthermore we found moderate negative

correlation, not grouping for IH, between Kstiff and SLHT hopping

distance in both Shoes-Linoleum (r = -0.681, p = 0.03) and Bare-

foot-Sand (r = -0.673, p = 0.04) conditions. Instead, when

grouping for IH, we found high negative correlation between Kstif-

f and SLHT hopping distance only in Shoes-Linoleum condition

(r = -0.886, p = 0.03).

Conclusion: In general, not considering IH, foot condition seems to

be more related than landing surface features to Kstiff reduction.

Shoes for running offer the best joint compliance during foot collision

with all surfaces, except the sand, where, on the contrary, barefoot

condition highlights lower Kstiff. Whereas, considering positive IH,

lower Kstiff is observed only landing on natural surfaces (grass) with

shoes. Analyzing knee self-perception functionality outcome, it seems

to be better to avoid Tartan surfaces with shoes, condition showing

high Kstiff.

ReferencesBramble DM, Lieberman DE (2004) Endurance running and the

evolution of Homo. Nature 432:345–352

Van Gent RN et al (2007) Incidence and determinants of lower

extremity running injuries in long distance runners: a systematic

review. Br J Sports Med 41:469–480

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Training load analysis through GPS tracking:

comparison between categories of young players

(Primavera, Allievi and Giovanissimi)

G. Mazza1, M. Montini2

1University of Florence, Florence, Italy2University of Rome, ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: In the past few years, the use of GPS devices in sports has

registered a rapid spread. Despite this, there is a scarcity of quanti-

tative data in the literature regarding youth football teams. The

purpose of this research project is to provide some insight about the

volume and intensity of training for youth categories.

Method: During the 2013–2014 season, Qstarz GPS devices (10 Hz)

were used to monitor three teams from professional clubs: FC Empoli,

Giovanissimi [G] (20 players) and Allievi [A] (18 players); and SSC

Napoli Primavera [P] (24 players). The goalkeepers were excluded

from the analysis. We analyzed changes in direction (cid), energy

expenditure [J], total distance [m], and high intensity training

([20 W).

Results: A decreasing trend was observed in the volume of training

going from the Primavera category down to Allievi and between

Allievi and Giovanissimi. Energy expenditure was : P:1580538J,

A:1430119J (-10 %P), G:1200338J (-25 %P; -16 %A); total dis-

tance: P: 28,564 m, A: 25,067 m (-13 %P), G: 21,136 m (-26 %P,

-16 %A); change of direction: P:505 cdd, A:460 cdd (-9 %P), G:

358 cdd (-30 %P, -22 %A). Identical ratios were found for the

intensity of training expressed as % Joule [20 Watt: P: 37 %; A:

31 %; G: 31 %; and for high intensity training P: 19 %, A: 19 %, G:

17 %.

Conclusion: Both the amount and the intensity of training are dis-

criminating factors of work-out between the various categories. We

believe that the dissemination of such information is useful to know

more about work-out practices and to start making relevant compar-

isons between the different youth sectors.

ReferencesDi Prampero PE et al (2005) Sprint running: a new energetic

approach. J Exp Biol 208:2809–2816

Minetti AE, Moia C, Roi GS, Susta D, Ferretti G (2002) Energy cost

of walking and running at extreme uphill and downhill slopes.

J Appl Physiol 93:1039–1046

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Training with the balance disc: learning dynamic

and influence of initial fitness status

D. Sabatucci, D. Viggiano

Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Campobasso, Italy

Aim: Ankle distortions are among the most frequent causes of injury

in contact-sports and in basketball. Their prevention is therefore one

important aim of every type of training program. To prevent these

injuries, a number of unstable platforms has been devised since long

time to train the nervous system to react to conditions of little equi-

librium. In this work we present the learning curve of a training with a

specific, poorly studied, unstable platform: the balance disc, an

inflatable support with a rough side that presents both elements of

instability and high tactile stimulation of the plantar aspect of the foot.

Method: Thirty-seven subjects among professional basketball ath-

letes and normal controls (both sexes) participated to the study. They

underwent a training program with the balance disk for 10 sessions

and their equilibrium abilities tested before and after the training.

Results: We show that 10 training sessions with the balance disc lead

to a drastic, progressive, improvement of the equilibrium abilities.

Notably, the pre-training equilibrium skills are very different between

the two groups and the two genders: they are higher in male athletes

and lower in female non-athletes. However, the training effect was

evident in all groups under study.

Conclusion: The use of these unstable platforms should be a constant

element in the training program, particularly in sports such as

basketball.

ReferenceSabatucci D, Viggiano D (2013) L’allenamento con il balance disc:

dinamica di apprendimento e influenza delle condizioni atletiche

iniziali. Strength Cond 6:77–79

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Associations between accelerometer-measured and self-

reported physical activity in a sample of Italian

adolescents

E. Codrons1,2,*, M. Vandoni1,*, P. Sacchi1, L. Correale1, S. Ottobrini1,

Y. Leynaud1, L. Marin1, E. Ricagno1, S. Abela3, C.F. Buzzachera4

1LAMA (Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity), CRIAMS,

Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic

Science University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy2Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia,

Pavia, Italy3IRCCS San Matteo, Pavia, Italy4North University of Parana, Londrina, Brazil

* These authors contributed equally to this work

Aim: Physical activity (PA) levels or sedentary behaviour are often

assessed from subjective self-reported instruments. However infor-

mation derived from self-reported questionnaires are potentially

related to response bias and thus validation of PA questionnaires

against criterion measures, such as accelerometry, is crucial. There-

fore, the purpose of this study was to examine the associations

between accelerometer-determined and self-reported PA in a sample

of Italian adolescents.

Method: 30 adolescents (24 boys and 7 girls), aged 18.3 ± 1.1 years

wore accelerometers (Actiheart, Minicoutter�, USA) for 5 consecu-

tive days, including at least one weekend day. Minute-by-minute

activity counts were collapsed into sedentary, light, moderate, and

vigorous intensity activities. PA and sedentary behaviour were mea-

sured using an Italian language short form, self-administered

International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF). Acceler-

ometer and IPAQ-derived values for time in the intensity domains

were compared by paired t test and the bias and variability between

the two measurement methods for each intensity domain was deter-

mined using limits of agreement approach. The relationships between

accelerometer-measured and self-reported PA scores were assessed

using Pearson correlation coefficients (r) and concordance correlation

coefficients (Pc). A significance level of p \ 0.05 was chosen.

Results: Mean IPAQ-reported sitting time was 28 % lower than

accelerometer-measured sedentary time (p \ 0.01). Both the r and

Pc coefficients between indices of sedentary behaviour were weak

(p [ 0.01). Similarly, agreement between accelerometer-measured

and IPAQ-reported measures was much poorer. IPAQ-reported

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estimates of moderate and vigorous activity were 0.69-fold lower and

1.96-fold higher than the corresponding accelerometer-derived mea-

sures of indices; r correlations between accelerometer-derived and

IPAQ-reported indices of moderate activity were weak (p [ 0.01),

but r and Pc between vigorous activity measures were reasonably

modest (r = 0.58, Pc = 0.50, p \ 0.01). Pc for moderate activity was

weak (p [ 0.01), reflecting the large divergence of the regression

lines from the line of equality.

Conclusion: Results indicate that the IPAQ-SF was inaccurate to

report PA and sedentary behaviour when compared to objective

measurements in a sample of Italian adolescents. Using IPAQ-SF can

underestimate sedentary behaviour and moderate activities as well as

overestimate vigorous activities.

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The kinect sensor as a new, cost effective tool to study

human gait for field work

C. Zullo, G. Romano, D. Viggiano

Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Campobasso, Italy

Aim: Recording gait is important in the field of biomechanics and

sports science, but existing motion capture systems are not suited for

field work. It would be desirable to track human motion in 3D,

without the use of markers, preferably in open spaces. The Microsoft

KinectTM system provides markerless 3D tracking of human motion

in real-time; it is inexpensive, portable and simple to setup. Consid-

ering its markerless tracking, it provides an amazing accuracy.

This study assessed the validity of the Microsoft KinectTM to study

the human gait cycle against a standard video-analysis.

Methods: Six normal subjects were asked to walk on a treadmill or

along a 3mt long linear path, without constrains. 3D motion tracking

data of the upper limbs were obtained using the Microsoft Kinect

sensor, a real-time 3D scanner.

Results: The Microsoft KinectTM and the standard video-analysis

systems had comparable inter-trial reliability, with large correlation

index for the majority of measurements. The measurements obtained

along a linear path were more reliable compared to those obtained on

a treadmill.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the Microsoft KinectTM can

be used to analyze the gait pattern for field work, when other more

expensive methods are not available.

ReferencesRomano G, Viggiano D (2014) Interception of moving objects in

karate: an experimental, marker-free benchmark. Muscles Liga-

ments Tendons J (accepted)

Viggiano D, Corona K, Cerciello S, Vasso M, Schiavone-Panni A

(2014) The kinematic control during the backward gait and knee

proprioception: insights from lesions of the anterior cruciate

ligament. J Human Kinetics 41:103–111

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The type of ergometer affects functional evaluation

in elite rowers

E. Faelli, F. Lofrano, L. Perasso, A. Bisio, P. Ruggeri

Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa,

Italy

Aim: Rowing involves the body in a global muscular and cardiore-

spiratory work. Energy production mostly derives from aerobic

metabolism. Measuring changes in performance is important for

monitoring the progress of rowers during training and for research

assessing the effect of training and other interventions. Various

studies highlighted the limits of the functional evaluation in water, but

there is still disagreement on the reliability of the ergometers used in

laboratory. The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of

two different global ergometers, rowing ergometer and cycle

ergometer, in the functional evaluation of rowers.

Method: 10 male junior elite rowers were recruited from a local club.

The experimental protocol was composed of an anthropometric and

body composition assessment and a cardiopulmonary test on the two

different global ergometers. Heart rate (HR), Oxygen Uptake

(VO2max), Power output (Watt) and Blood lactate levels were mea-

sured during the test. Subjects experimented maximal effort at the end

of the exercise phase. Data analysis was performed using a paired

t test and data were expressed as mean ± SE. P \ 0.05 were con-

sidered as threshold for statistical significance.

Results: Paired t test showed that the VO2max value obtained at the

rowing ergometer (4.58 ± 0.2 l/min) was not significantly different

compared with the cycle ergometer (3.99 ± 0.2 l/min); power output

obtained in the rowing ergometer (368 ± 6.63 W) was significantly

greater than that measured at the cycle ergometer (260 ± 6.67 W;

p \ 0.01); lactate levels reached in the rowing ergometer’s test

(6.88 ± 0.73 mmol/l) were significantly higher compared to the cycle

ergometer (4.33 ± 0.63 mmol/l; p \ 0.01) and the ratio W/VO2/min

in the rowing ergometer (81.37 ± 3.1) was significantly greater than

the cycle ergometer (65.98 ± 2.5; p \ 0.01).

Conclusion: Our athletes obtained VO2max values comparable in the

two global ergometers, coming to exhaustion but developing higher

power output in the rowing ergometer than in the cycle ergometer.

Even the high lactate’s data and the high ratio W/VO2/min, measured

in the specific ergometer, showed greater muscular energy efficiency.

Therefore, the rowing ergometer is more reliable for elite rower’s

functional evaluation and training.

ReferencesLawton TW et al (2011) A review. Sports Med 41(5):413–432

Smith TB et al (2012) Sports Med 42(4):343–358

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FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE

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Stress-related hormonal changes to basketball game

in older athletes

C. Cortis1, C. Lupo2, A.M. Teixeira3, L. Rama3, W.J. Kraemer4,

G. Cibelli5, L. Capranica6

1Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University

of Cassino e Lazio Meridionale, Cassino, Italy2Department of Medical Sciences SUISM, University of Turin, Turin,

Italy3Research Center for Sport and Physical Activity, Coimbra

University, Coimbra, Portugal4Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT,

USA5Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University

of Foggia, Foggia, Italy6Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a bas-

ketball game on ratings of perceived efforts (RPE), heart rate (HR)

responses and salivary hormones (cortisol-sC; alpha-amylase-sAA) in

senior athletes. The ratio of sAA over sC (AOC) has been considered

to provide meaningful information regarding the activity of the

sympathetic-adrenal medullary (SAM) and hypothalamic–pituitary–

adrenal (HPA) axis.

Method: Ten senior (51 ± 7 years) male basketball players partic-

ipated in a 50-min friendly game. Frequency of occurrence of HR

[85 % of individual HRmax was calculated and post-game RPE on

a CR10 scale was collected to evaluate the intensity elicited by the

game. Saliva samples were collected before (PRE) and after (POST)

the competition, and at 10 (post 10), 20 (post 20) and 30-min (post

30) of the recovery phase. Kinetic reaction assay and ELISA

methods were used to analyze sAA and sC, respectively, and AOC

was calculated as the ratio between sAA and sC area under the

curve. A repeated measures ANOVA tested differences (p \ 0.05)

between samplings. Pearson’s correlation was applied to AOC and

RPE.

Results: HR [85 % HRmax was 65 ± 32 % and RPE ranged from

easy to hard (3.4 ± 1.3). POST sAA (415.5 ± 100.9 U/ml) differed

(p \ 0.0001) from PRE (97.8 ± 26.4 U/ml) and recovery samplings

(post 10: 235.1 ± 57.3 U/ml; post 20: 186.7 ± 33.6 U/ml; post 30:

163.8 ± 30.3 U/ml). PRE sC (3.5 ± 0.9 nmol/l) were lower

(p \ 0.001) than POST (11.5 ± 3.0 nmol/l) and recovery (post 10:

13.2 ± 3.9 nmol/l; post 20: 12.6 ± 4.3 nmol/l; post 30:

11.4 ± 3.5 nmol/l). A moderate relationship (r = -0.6; 95 % CI -

0.9 to 0.2; p = 0.12) between AOC (40.1 ± 36.5) and RPE emerged.

Conclusion: The basketball competition posed a high psychobio-

logical stress on players. The faster recovery of sAA with respect to

sC substantiated a faster reactivity of SAM with respect to HPA. A

negative correlation between AOC and subjective ratings was con-

firmed. Further psychobiological investigations on the impact of

different competitions on psychobiological responses in older indi-

viduals are needed.

ReferencesAli, Pruessner (2012) Physiol Behav 12:65–72

Borg (1998) Hum Kinetics

Cortis et al (2014) Book of abstracts of 19th ECSS Congress, 2nd–5th

July, Amsterdam

Filaire et al (2013) Psychoneuroendocrinology 38:1122–1132

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Effects of a training program (physical activity

and hypocaloric diet) on adiponectin expression

in patients severely obese

E. Nigro1, ML. Monaco1, O. Scudiero1, F. Cacciatore2, F. Giuliano3,

N. Ferrara2,3, A. Daniele1,4

1CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Scarl, Via Gaetano Salvatore

486, Naples 80145, Italy2Department of Translational and Medical Sciences, University

of Naples, ‘‘Federico II’’, Naples, Italy3Salvatore Maugeri Fondation, IRCCS, Scientific Institute of Telese

Terme, Benevento, Italy4Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical

Sciences and Technologies, SUN, Caserta, Italy

Aim: Routinely physical exercise is an important component of healthy

aging. In fact, sedentary lifestyle together with unhealthy diet increase

the risk of overweight and obesity, two major public health, clinical, and

economical problems in modern societies. Obesity is a multifactorial

disease associated with numerous metabolic complications; alteration of

adipose tissue functions determines abnormal endocrine production of

adipokines. Among these, adiponectin (Acrp30) is produced as a

monomer and circulates in the serum as oligomers of low (LMW),

medium (MMW) and high weight molecular weight (HMW). It has

been largely demonstrated that HMW are the most relevant biological

oligomers. Unlike the other adipokines, Acrp30 in obesity is produced at

low levels; reduction in body weight is associated with increased cir-

culating levels of Acrp30. The aim of our study was to evaluate the

effect of intense physical activity levels on total Acpr30 levels and its

oligomers in the serum of severely obese patients.

Method: We analyzed 226 severely obese patients (BMI

48.58 ± 9.54) undergoing a 4 weeks program of physical activity

(5 days/week, 40 min + 20 min of treadmill exercise bike/day) and

hypocaloric diet (1,000 kcal/day). Total Acrp30, LMW, MMW and

HMW were evaluated by ELISA and Western blotting assays before

and after 4 weeks of intense physical activity.

Results: The analysis of anthropometric and biochemical data

showed that in severely obese patients after exercise, BMI, blood

glucose, total and LDL-cholesterol were significantly decreased

(P \ 0.05). Furthermore, the Acrp30 total levels and its oligomers

were significantly increased too (P \ 0.05). In addition, correlation

analysis showed that patients with higher Acrp30 levels show a

greater increase in Acrp30 after 4 weeks of physical activity.

Conclusions: In severely obese patients undergoing intense physical

activity and low-calorie diet program, total Acrp30 levels, but in

particular its HMW oligomers increase. Our data suggest the impor-

tance of assessing the entire oligomeric profile of Acrp30 as a potential

indicator of the functionality of adipose tissue. Finally, we demon-

strated that physical activity represent a useful tool to improve Acrp30

function, in particular that of the most biological HMW oligomers.

ReferenceDe Rosa A et al (2013) Adiponectin oligomers as potential indicators

of adipose tissue improvement in obese subjects. Eur J Endocrinol

169(1):37–43

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School-based physical activity interventions to improve

overweight and obese children’s lifestyle

M. C. Gallotta1, S. Iazzoni1, G. P. Emerenziani1, M. Meucci2,

S. Migliaccio1, L. Guidetti1, C. Baldari1

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy2Department of Health Leisure and Exercise Sciences, Appalachian

State University, Boone, USA

Aim: Aim of this study was to determine the effects of two different

school-based physical activity (PA) interventions on weight status,

PA and eating habits of overweight and obese schoolchildren.

Method: 53 overweight/obese children were selected from 230

healthy students, according to their percentage of fat mass and they

were randomly assigned to a Traditional PA, to a Coordinative PA or

to a Control group (no PA intervention). Their weight, height, body

mass index, body fat percentage, habitual PA level and eating habits

were assessed before and after the intervention period lasted

5 months.

All measured parameters were analysed using a 3x2x2 mixed analysis

of covariance (ANCOVA) with Group (Traditional PA group vs.

Coordinative PA group vs. Control group), Time (pre vs. post) and

Gender (males vs. females) as within factors and baseline weight data

as covariate.

Results: Body fat percentage was higher in females than males

(32.32 ± 2.89 vs. 27.79 ± 3.35). Weight increased more in females

(50.37 ± 10.07 vs. 51.87 ± 10.34 kg) than in males (53.08 ± 6.25

vs. 54.01 ± 6.31 kg). PA total volume of Traditional group was

higher than Coordinative and Control group (5,497.24 ± 2,041.06

MET-min/week vs. 4,434.06 ± 1,929.80 MET-min/week vs.

3,838.11 ± 1,757.57 MET-min/week, respectively). Intake of pasta

and rice increased in males (4.78 ± 1.60 vs. 5.41 ± 1.05 times/

week). Eggs intake decreased in Coordinative group (3.15 ± 1.50 vs.

2.25 ± 0.79 times/week). Fruit intake increased over the time

(3.94 ± 1.51 vs. 5.04 ± 1.60 times/week). Sweets intake decreased

in Coordinative (3.60 ± 2.20 vs. 1.77 ± 1.50 times/week) and Tra-

ditional groups (3.77 ± 2.77 vs. 1.45 ± 1.38 times/week, p \ 0.05).

Snacks intake decreased in Coordinative (4.20 ± 0.86 vs.

1.88 ± 1.70 times/week and Traditional group (3.59 ± 1.89 vs.

1.91 ± 0.75 times/week) (p \ 0.01).

Conclusion: 5-months intervention was not sufficient to produce

positive effects on children’s weight status and on their physical

activities engagement. However, both PA interventions induced a

positive impact on eating habits.

ReferencesCraig CL et al (2003) International Physical Activity Questionnaire:

12-country reliability and validity. Med Sci Sports Exerc

35:1381–1395

Iannotti J et al (2013) Trends in physical activity, sedentary behavior,

diet, and BMI among US adolescent 2001–2009. Pediatrics

132:606–614

McCarthy HD et al (2006) Body fat reference curves for children. Int

J Obes 30:598-602

163 FP OP

Distribution and localization of subcutaneus adiposity

M. Mondonico1,2, E. Guerra1,3, E. P. Annese, G. Salzone

1Research and Development Department, ELAV Institute, Perugia,

Italy2Techincal Expert Member EHFA European Health and Fitness

Association, Brussels, Belgium3University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy

Aim: The purpose of this study is map the distribution and locali-

zation of sub-cutaneous adiposity. Measure the thickness of the

adipose official sites and new skinfolds by providing more infor-

mation about the distribution of fat in various regions of the body.

In literature, at present, there are no research aimed at mapping the

adipose tissue of the various anatomical regions of the human body

and the current number of skinfolds is not sufficient to meet this

need.

Method: 36 males and 10 female, physically active. With each

subject was established a single appointment, lasting an average of

50 min in which he was subjected in sequence to this series of tests:

Skinfolds (Jackson & Pollock) measures through the use of skinfold

calipers and adipometer. Skinfolds measures using the new system

to 29 skinfolds with caliper and adipometer. Bioelectrical impedance

analysis and general compartment. Measurements: recognition of

each skinfold caliper by means of three consecutive measurements.

Of these, the arithmetic mean was calculated. The above values

have been processed in such a way as to obtain the mean and SD of

the measurements. Based on these medium-sized were then pro-

cessed on percentiles, very helpful in delineating the reference

values.

Results: The new mapping has allowed us to identify 29 locations of

detection of subcutaneous fat. The distribution in percentiles allows

us to define the reference values in relation to sex. Some skinfolds

have shown a high correlation, which allows you to make a complete

measurement with a lower number of skinfolds. Women have a

number of correlations greater than those of men.

Conclusion: This preliminary research opens up very interesting to

understand more precisely the changes in the localization of adiposity

in different body regions. It also opens up the possibility of a better

and more accurate design parameters of training programs aimed at

the reduction of localized fat deposits.

ReferencesEston RG, Rowlands AV, Charlesworth S, Davies A, Hoppitt T

(2005) Prediction of DXA-determined whole body fat from

skinfolds: importance of including skinfolds from the thigh and

calf in young, healthy men and women. Eur J Clin Nutr

59(5):695–702

Koskova I, Petrasek R, Vondra K, Skibova J (2007) Weight, body

composition and fat distribution changes of Czech women in the

different reproductive phases: a longitudinal study. Department of

Anthropology, Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Science,

Czech Republic

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164 FP OP

Effect of a modified intermittent fasting on strength,

body composition and metabolic variables after 8 weeks

of resistance training in amateur body builders

A. Paoli1, A. Bianco2, T. Moro1, M. Neri3, G. Battaglia2, A. Palma2

1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova,

Italy2Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo,

Palermo, Italy3Italian Fitness Federation, Ravenna, Italy

Aim: The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of a modified

fasting protocol during resistance training in a healthy amateur body

builders.

Method: Thirty-four amateur body builders participated in this study

(age 27 ± 4.2, weight 84.6 ± 6.2). Subjects were randomly assigned

to intermittent fasting group (IF) or control group (CTRL). IF subjects

consumed 100 % of their energy needs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. (then

they fasting from 8 p.m. to 1 p.m. i.e. 8 h of feeding and 16 h of

fasting -8/16). Subjects divided they caloric intake in three meals

(1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.). CTRL group ingested they caloric intake

in three meals consumed at 8 a.m., 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.). Groups are

matched for kilocalories consumed.

The subjects were tested before and after 8 weeks of the assigned diet

protocol. Fat mass and fat free mass were assessed by dual energy

X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), muscle area of thigh and arm using

anthropometric system. Blood samples were taken to measure tes-

tosterone, IGF-1, IGF-1 BP, blood glucose, Insulin, Adiponectin,

Leptin, T3, TSH, Cholesterol (total, HDL, LDL) and TG. Moreover

bench press and leg press maximal strength were measured.

Results: After 8 weeks IF group showed a significant decrease of FM

compared to CTRL group (p \ 0.005) whilst LBM showed similar

slight increase. Same trend was shown by limbs muscle CSA. Max-

imal strength showed no significant increase without difference

between treatments. Testosterone and IGF-1 and IGF-1 BP showed a

significant decrease (p \ 0.05) in IF group after 8 weeks whilst no

differences were detected in CTRL subjects. Blood glucose showed

no significant changes, whilst there was a significant decrease

(p \ 0.05) of insulin in IF subjects. Adiponectin significant increased

(p \ 0.05) in IF group. Total Leptine decreased only in IF group but

difference disappeared when adjusted per kg of fat mass. T3

decreased only in IF whilst TSH showed no change in both groups.

No significant changes were detected in total cholesterol, HDL, LDL

and TG mean values in both groups.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that an IF 8/16 could improve health

related biomarkers, decrease fat mass and maintain muscle mass. This

kind of regimen could be adopted by body builders to lose fat and

maintain lean body mass in the pre-contest phase or by other athletes

involved in sports with weight categories such as wrestling, boxing,

weight lifting, and power lifting. Future studies to address the long

term effects of IF in athletes are warranted.

165 FP OP

The influence of the stomatognatic apparatus in athletic

performance: the effects of the palatal exteroceptors

stimulation in football players

A. Patti1, G. Messina1,2, A. Iovane1,2, G. Battaglia1, M. Bellafiore1,

A. Bianco1, A. Palma1

1Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo,

Palermo, Italy2Posturalab Italia

Aim: Previous studies demonstrated that the hard palate is richly

supplied with a variety of mechanoreceptors. The papilla incisiva has

a high number of free nerve endings as well as specific mechanore-

ceptors, such as Merkel cell receptors, lamellated corpuscles, and a

few Ruffini corpuscles. The aim of this study was to examine the

possible effects on explosive strength which might derive from the

stimulation of the palatals exteroceptors through the voluntary press

of the ‘‘spot-tongue’’ and the subsequent lingual-occlusal system

influences.

Method: A number of sixty football players voluntarily participated

to the study (Age 24.3 ± 7.2 years; Height 174.3 ± 8.6 cm; Weight

63.7 ± 7.6 kg). Each participant was invited four times to perform

the explosive strength test ‘‘Squat Jump test’’ (SJ). After the first

attempt for the familiarization, the SJ was administered in three dif-

ferent occlusal conditions: SJ with the tongue at the palatal spot (PS-

SJ); SJ with the tongue at the palatal spot and the increase of the

mandible’s verticality (VPS-SJ); SJ with the tongue supported behind

the teeth (BT-SJ). One day data collection was adopted with the

different occlusal conditions administered randomly. STATISTICA

software was adopted to perform a paired t test. A p value lower than

0.05 was considered to be statistically relevant.

Results: The performances of BT-SJ (38.5 ± 4 cm) were generally

lower than to performances both in PS-SJ (40.1 ± 4 cm) and VPS-SJ

(40.4 ± 4,1 cm). Significant differences were identified between BT-

SJ vs. PS-SJ (p \ 0.0001) and BT-SJ vs. VPS-SJ (p \ 0.0001).

Interesting differences were found between PS-SJ vs. VPS-SJ without

scientific significance.

Conclusion: This study showed how the stimulation of the palatals

exteroceptors and the lingual occlusion can influence the perfor-

mance. The tongue supported behind the teeth represents a negative

stimulus that significantly reduces the athletes’ performances and by

contrast, the tongue at the palatal spot, with and without the mandi-

ble’s verticality, can give a positive stimulus improving the

performances, in particular explosive strength. However, our results

have to be confirmed with a larger number of participants and sup-

ported by other studies.

ReferencesHalata Z, Baumann KI (199) Sensory nerve endings in the hard palate

and papilla incisiva of the rhesus monkey. Anat Embryol

199:427–437

Serviere F(1989) Postural examination in daily occlusodontology. Les

Cahiers de prothese 1989:36–42

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Weight problems and lifestyle in a sample

of schoolchildren: methodological aspects

L. Pizzigalli1,2, G. Rissone2, M. Micheletti Cremasco2,3

1Department of Medical Sciences, Motor Science Research Center,

University of Torino, Torino, Italy2SUISM Centro Servizi, University of Torino, Torino, Italy3Department of Life Science and Systems Biology, University

of Turin, Turin, Italy

Aim: During the past two decades, the prevalence of obesity in

children and its relation with the lifestyle has risen greatly

worldwide. A sensible suggestion for a unified system to allow a

rapid screening of childhood obesity has been requested. The first

aim of this study was to understand which is the best anthropo-

metric parameter, the body-mass index (BMI) or the waist

circumference (WC), to evaluate the weight problems in a group

of schoolchildren (7–17 y.o.). The second aim was to evaluate

the relation between the overweight and the lifestyle of these

students: physical activity (sport and physical exercise) and phys-

ical inactivity (homeworks and the use of Video Display Terminal,

VDT).

Method: Anthropometric data were collected in a group of 326

subjects (176 females F, 150 males M) attended a school of Tor-

ino. Moreover, a questionnaire was distributed to analyze their

lifestyle.

Results: The screening shows that only the BMI underlines

underweight cases (3 % M and 2 % F). WC overestimates the

overweight cases, in particular in prepuberal females (WC 50 %,

BMI 8 %) and it is less able to underline gender differences (WC

46 % M and 40 % F, BMI 21 % M, 11 % F). About the relation

between overweight and lifestyle: schoolchildren show not one

overweight case in both gender, when they reach the highest levels

of physical exercise (11.7 h/week of physical activity for males

aged 16.50 y.o. and 4.7 h/w of sport activity for females aged

10.50 y.o.). At the contrary, males aged 12.50 y.o. and females

aged 16.50 y.o. show the highest levels of physical inactivity and

overweight problems.

Conclusion: On the basis of our data it is possible to suggest the use

of BMI as an early warning of health risks for schoolchildren

(7–17 y.o.), since the WC alone results less sensitive. Moreover, the

most cases of overweight and obesity in both gender appear when

they are not addicted to sport activity or when they increase the time

spent to physical inactivity.

ReferencesCacciari E, Milani S, Balsamo A, Spada E, Bona G, Cavallo L, Cerutti

F, Gargantini L, Greggio N, Tonini G, Cicognani A (2006) Italian

cross-sectional growth charts for height, weight and BMI (2 to

20 yr). J Endocrinol Invest 29(7):581–593

Wang Y, Monteiro C, Popkin BM (2002) Trends of obesity and

underweight in older children and adolescents in the United States,

Brazil, China, and Russia. Am J Clin Nutr 75:971–977

167 FP OP

Prevalence of bigorexia and its relationships

with physical activity in a sample of university students:

a pilot study

E. Carraro1, I. Gorrasi1, M. Roppolo1, G. Abate Daga2, S. Bo3,

G. Gilli1

1Department of Public and Pediatric Health Sciences, University

of Turin, Turin, Italy2Department of Neuroscience ‘‘Rita Levi Montalcini’’, University

of Turin, Turin, Italy3Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy

Aim: Bigorexia is a mental disorder characterized by a constant

worry that his own body is too thin. Bigorexics are generally obsessed

with developing muscles, overtrain, and overuse dietary supplements.

Bigorexy may: (1) cause risk behaviors such as the use of anabolic

steroids; (2) be associated with eating disorders, and (3) result in

suicide attempts. Within this picture it is necessary to analyze prev-

alence and signs of bigorexia, in order to make aware healthcare

providers. This process will help to early detect subjects at risk.

Method: 2,047 undergraduate students were asked to answer to an on

line survey. The following instruments were used: the MDDI, for the

identification of bigorexic subjects; Orto-15, for orthorexia nervosa;

and the EAT-26 for eating disorders. Data were treated with

descriptive statistics and one way ANOVA.

Results: The response rate was very low (n = 162; 7.9 %). 126

subjects were included in the analysis. 63 % of the sample (n = 79)

was composed by women. 9 (7.1 %;) subjects were found at risk of

bigorexia (MDDI score C39). The one way ANOVA showed a sig-

nificant relationship between the level of physical activity and the

score in the MDDI total (F(1–120) = 10.65; p = 0.001; g2 = 0.08);

MDDI Drive for Size composite (F(1–120) = 7.44; p = 0.007;

g2 = 0.06) and MDDI Appearance Intolerance (F(1–120) = 32.11;

p \ 0.001; g2 = 0.21), controlling for age, gender and BMI. It is

important to notice that each subject at risk of bigorexy showed at

least another risk score; specifically: orthorexia (n = 2); general

eating disorder (n = 3) and both of them (n = 4).

Conclusion: The sample characteristics (low BMI, physically active)

may induce to think of a group more careful to the issues investigated,

and since these data are just preliminary, a wider investigation is

suggested. However, it is important to study and expand knowledge

about bigorexia, trying to reduce the negative consequences of this

recognized condition.

ReferencesFerrari E, Ruberto MG (2012) La bigoressia o dismorfofobia

muscolare: una nuova patologia emergente. Bollettino della Societa

Medico Chirurgica di Pavia 125(2):373–377

Hepworth K (2010) Eating disorders today-not just a girl thing.

J Christ Nursing 27(3):236–241

Leone JE, Sedory EJ, Gray KA (2005) Recognition and treatment of

muscle dysmorphia and related body image disorders. J Athlet

Training 40(4):352

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168 FP P

Adaptations of foot support in point fight athletes

M. Bellafiore, G. Battaglia, A. Bianco, A. Lucchese, G. Caramazza,

A. Palma

Department of Law, Society and Sport Sciences, University

of Palermo, Italy

Aim: Several studies have reported that athletes present specific

postural adaptations according to the sport practiced. Little is known

about the plantar pressure pattern in athletes of point-fight (or semi-

contact), one of the specialties of kickboxing. The aim of this study

was to examine the differences in support surface and distribution of

body weight on both feet between point fighters and sedentary

subjects.

Method: Ten athletes (8.65 ± 3.43 years of practice in point fight-

ing) and ten sedentary subjects were recruited for participating into

this study. The first were 21.82 ± 2.40 years old and had

70.91 ± 5.55 kg weight, 173.40 ± 2.72 cm height and 23.57 ± 1.58

BMI. The latter were 21.89 ± 2.80 years old and had

76.61 ± 6.83 kg weight, 177.00 ± 6.51 cm height and 24.52 ± 2.57

BMI. Each participant performed two test of 51.2 s length in ortho-

static position without footwear on a module-platform electronic

baropodometer. Statistically significant differences between groups

and within the same group were calculated with U Mann–Whitney

and Kruskal–Wallis test. They were set to value of P B 0.05.

Results: Athletes and sedentary subjects did not show any significant

difference in anthropometric features. Support surface and load dis-

tribution were significantly bigger in the right than left foot in both

groups. In particular, athletes had a bigger surface in forefeet than

sedentary subjects, in which was predominant in rearfeet. Load dis-

tribution was significantly bigger in rearfeet than forefeet in sedentary

group; while it was bigger in athlete’s forefeet than sedentary

subjects.

Conclusion: These results confirm that practiced sport affects the

plantar pressure pattern. A forward imbalance of body weight

observed in these athletes might cause an increase in energy expen-

diture used for controlling own body balance at the expense of their

sport performance.

ReferencesPaillard T (2014) Sport-specific balance develops specific postural

skills. Sports Med

Zemkova E (2014) Sport-specific balance. Sports Med 44:579–590

169 FP P

Functional Movement ScreenTM scores in young

basketball players

L. Cavaggioni, M. Bardelli, E. Pittaluga, G. Alberti

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy

Aim: In recent years there has been an increase of children who

participate in sport activities and with them an amount of injuries: one

of the most common trauma is the Osgood Schlatter (OS). Many

factors may be involved, such as muscles imbalances, poor flexibility,

postural misalignment. Recent researches suggested that a better

functional movement is associated with reduced injury rates. The

purpose is to provide accessible data about using the Functional

Movement ScreenTM which investigates simultaneously balance,

flexibility, strength and motor control.

Method: 18 male regional-level basketball players (15 ± 1 years,

60 ± 1 kg, 171 ± 0.5 cm, 20.5 ± 1.3 kg/m2) were recruited: with

OS (n = 7) and Healthy (n = 11). All subjects participated to

FMSTM. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to examine differences

due to the rank-order nature of the data.

Results: Differences in the physical condition of the groups were

pointed out by FMSTM: Healthy subjects performed better on hurdle

step, in line lunge, shoulder mobility and trunk stability push up

compared to adolescents with OS (p \ 0.05; p \ 0.005). Instead deep

squat, active straight leg raise and rotary stability show no variations.

Significant differences (p \ 0.005) were also reported in the com-

posite score (12.2 ± 3 H vs. 7 ± 1 OS).

Conclusion: Young basketball players can exhibit different move-

ment profiles. Subjects with OS are less in balance, have minor motor

control and poor thoracic mobility. This could be attributed to the

syndrome which leads to an uncomfortable situation with a limited

functional dynamic coordination. For a basketball player, for whom is

important to be strong, in balance and flexible, the FMSTM could be

an easy strategy to evaluate and train the quality of movements during

the growth period.

ReferencesCook G et al (2006) Pre-participation screening: the use of

fundamental movements as an assessment of function—p1 and

p2. N Am J Sports Phys Ther 1:(62–72), (132–139)

Gholve PA et al (2007) Osgood Schlatter syndrome. Curr Opin

Pediatr 19(1):44–50

Kiesel K et al (2007) Can serious injury in professional football be

predicted by a preseason functional movement screen? N Am J

Sports Phys Ther 2(3):147–158

Maffulli N et al (2010) Sports injuries in young athletes: long-term

outcome and prevention strategies. Phys Sportsmed 38(2):29–34

Paszkewicz JR et al (2013) Comparison of functional and static

evaluation tools among adolescent athletes. J Strength Cond Res

27(10):2842–2850

170 FP P

Differences of evaluation of the maximum consumption

of oxygen determined by the typology of surface utilized

S. Martina, F. A. Faure-Rolland

S.U.I.S.M. (Scuola Universitaria Interfacolta in Scienze Motorie),

University of Turin, Italy

Aim: Previous studies have measured the physiological differences in

running and walking on conventional surfaces and sand. Compared to

the solid surface, the energy cost (CE) of the march on sand results to

be greater: from 1.8 to 2.1/2, 7 times. During running the calculated

CE on sand is from 1.24 times (speed from 7 to 14 km/h), to 1.6

times greater than the solid surface.

Method 18 athletes (23 ± 1 years old), divided in two groups (A; B)

have completed the Legier Test on three surfaces: synthetic (Sy),

grass (Gr) and sand (Sa). The tests were done in different sequences

(A: Sy/Gr/Sa; B: Sy/Sa/Gr) with intervals of 1 week. The number of

steps (STEP), the maximum speed reaches (VAM) and the maximum

oxygen consumption was analyzed.

Results: For both groups the STEP average seems to be lower on Gr

compared to Sy, and even lower on Sa (A: Sy vs. Gr = 0 ± 2 %;

Sy vs. Sa = 6 ± 6 %. B: Sy vs. Gr = 3 ± 4 %; Sy vs.

Sa = 13 ± 5 %). The values of VAM registered are subjective and

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generally on Sy and on Gr they are equivalent, but on Sa are lower. In

both groups the average value of VAM is almost equivalent on Sy and

GR, in SA it is lower (A: Sy vs. Gr = 1 ± 2 %; Sy vs. Sa = -

1 ± 3 %; B: Sy vs. Gr = 0 ± 2 %; Sy vs. Sa = 4 ± 2 %). The

analysis on STEP and VAM (Test Wilcoxon-Mann–Whitney, a 0.05)

does not highlight differences between group A and B if the same

surface is used. In A and B there are remarkable differences of STEP

(Test T Wicoxon, a 0.05) on Sa and the other surfaces. The VAM

(Test Wilcoxon, a 0.05) is not different on Sy and Gr. In A (a 0.10)

the VAM on Sa is different than the other surfaces, in B (a 0.05) it is

not.

Conclusion: The STEP completed allow us to evaluate the work

quality which the athletes are capable of completing. On Sa the

muscular qualities that allow to higher the performance (elasticity and

reactivity) are in disfavor and on Sa are lower (A: -6 %; B: -13 %)

than those on Sy. Between the surfaces Sy and Gr the VAM does not

change, but it does on Sa. The considerations done on VAM also

apply on VO2max (=3.5 9 VAM—Legier-Mercier 1988). The coef-

ficient of energy cost of running for VO2max on Sa calculated by us is

3.6 and the CE: 1.14 times the standard.

ReferencesLejune TM, Willwm PA, Heglund MC (1998) Mechanics and

energetics of human locomotion on sand. J Esp Biol 201:2071–2080

Zamparo P et al (1992) The energy cost of walking or running on

sand. Eur J Appl Physiol Occup Physiol 65:183–187

171 FP P

Validation of a bioenergetic mathematical model

to estimate oxygen consumption and lactate

concentration in cycling

A. Zignoli1,4, S. Skafidas1,2, F. Biral3, B. Pellegrini1,4, F. Schena1,4

1CeRiSM (Research Centre of Mountain Sport and Health),

University of Verona, Verona, Italy2Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University

of Bologna, Bologna, Italy3Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, Trento,

Italy4Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: Physiological responses to exercise often show a combined

effect of factors which are considered to contribute to performance.

Isolated effects of selected factors can be estimated or interpreted

with additional tools for data analysis such for instance mathematical

modelling. The aim is to validate in a general shaped exercise a

mathematical model that has been built on the basis of an incremental

to exhaustion test using the oxygen consumption and the lactate

concentration data.

Methods: A male cyclist (25 y, PPO 365 W) underwent an incre-

mental test and then a square wave shaped exercise protocol on a cycle

ergometer. A mathematical model has been created as composed by

two differential and uncoupled equations: a first order equation

describing the dynamics of the oxygen consumption and a second

order equation describing the dynamics of the lactate concentration.

Both of them received the mechanical power as an input. The incre-

mental test has been included for model parameter estimation (training

and verification) and to define three different levels of power (light,

hard, very hard) to be maintained during the protocol. Estimated

parameters have been used to predict the behaviour of the system

during the protocol and thus validating the model for that conditions.

Results: Statistical testing of final simulation against analytical

results (test of normality of residuals KS test with p [ 0.1) indicates

that the noise underlying the experimental data is not Gaussian dis-

tributed. Validation and verification processes gave very large values

for correlation coefficient for both the oxygen consumption and the

lactate concentration: e.g. (Spearman’s: q verification 0.9, q valida-

tion 0.87 for VO2) and variance explained (R2 ver 0.81, R2 val 0.75

for VO2) and visual inspection analysis gave comforting impres-

sions on the ability of the model, within its domain of applicability, in

behaving with satisfactory accuracy consistent with the study

objectives.

Conclusion: The computer-aided simulations of this model can fit

and reproduce the data of an incremental test and can predict response

to a general shaped exercise in the same environment and conditions.

This model can be used to estimate the relative contribute of the total

work performed during the exercise as provided by the aerobic and

the anaerobic metabolism. Computer modelling should serve as a tool

for properly designed training programs, ultimately help valorising

the laboratory incremental tests.

172 FP P

Empowerment of physical efficiency in Italian

Policemen: conditions to reach a better working

performances

A. Sirressi1, A. Giunto1, V. Zito1, C. Volpe2, C. Montrone3, G. Sassi1,

S. Tafuri1, F. Fischetti1

1Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense

Organs, University of Bari ‘‘Aldo Moro’’, Bari, Italy;2Health Office, IX Mobile Unit, State Police, Bari;3Health Office, State Police, Police Headquarters, Bari

Aim: The present study assessed the relation between BMI and

physical efficiency among policemen in Italy. This research was

necessary due to the features of this work that needs people be fit and

ready to deal with physical efforts such as running, fighting, etc. In

Italy physical and physiological tests for policeman are compulsory

only during the selection process but not more after and there are no

compulsory training programs. As referred in Poston (2013) trained

firemen show a decrease of their BMI, they could dial better with

job’s stress and there were less injuries during the working time.

Method: We studied a experimental group (EG) of 18 subjects

chosen from the swimming policeman team (M: 18, mean age

44 ± 5 years, BMI range of 28.46 kg/m2) and a control group (CG)

made of 16 subjects with similar age and BMI. The following tests

were proposed: Cooper, Squat Jump (SJ), Counter movement Jump

(CMJ) and 20 m speed test and size sections measurement of biceps,

triceps and belly. The experimental group, performed a training

program based on aerobic and strength exercise that involved all

muscular districts each time of a total duration of 12 weeks (2 times

week/from 600 to 900 each time, one training with the instructor and

one alone). For the comparison of the two groups at the same time

measuring was used the Student t test for unpaired samples. For the

comparison of the average values of the two groups at different times

was analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA (p \ 0.05).

Results: We found that biceps and triceps areas expanded while the

abdominal section reduced in the EG while all areas were steady in

the CG. In spite of this reduction, the rise in belly section in the CG

grows at faster rate. In all tests, between T1 and T2, physical mea-

sures and performances become better in the EG while in the CG we

noticed no changes.

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Conclusion: All in all, there was an overall improvement of the

fitness level in the training group but there was also a similar trend in

the physical conditions according to the policeman opinions during

formal conversations. More, during the training time there were less

day off for illness and less injuries during the working time. Inter-

estingly, some of the policeman declared the will to continue the

training. Clearly, further researches can be analyzing connections

between physical and working performances.

ReferencesDonnelly JE, Blair SN, Jakicic JN, Manore MM, Rankin JW, Smith

BK (2009) Appropriate physical activity intervention strategies for

weight loss and prevention of weight regain for adults. American

College of Sports Medicine

Poston W, Haddock CK, Jahnke SA, Jitnarin N, Day RS (2013) An

examination of the benefits of health promotion programs for the

national fire service. BMC Public Health

173 FP P

Mental and motor simulations for different locomotor

actions

A. Fusco1,2, M. C. Gallotta1, M. Iosa2, M. E. Villani1, C. Baldari1,

L. Guidetti1

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome Foro Italico2Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS

Fondazione Santa Lucia

Aim: This study aimed to investigate: (1) potential differences

between mental simulation and motor simulation in walking (in terms

of time and number of steps); (2) potential different subjects’ capacity

to imagine and perform different locomotor acts.

Method: 20 healthy subjects (mean age 29 ± 5 years) were enrolled

and asked to perform several locomotor tasks, randomly allocated.

Three different tasks were performed (mental simulation, stepping in

place as motor simulation, and real performance) in four locomotor

acts (natural walking, W, light running, R, sideways walking, SW,

backwards walking, BW). Subjects were addressed towards a visu-

alized target located at 10 m, but this distance was unknown to the

subject. To assess time and number of steps of the tasks, the partic-

ipants wore a wireless triaxial accelerometer (FreeSense�, Sensorize

s.r.l., Rome), providing motion signals from the body.

Results: Globally, performances during simulation task resulted clo-

ser to actual locomotion with respect to those during imagination task

in terms of time performances. Repeated measure analysis of variance

showed that significant differences were found for all locomotor acts

among tasks (p \ 0.001), except for BW (p = 0.096), Post-hoc

analyses for the significant locomotor acts (W, R, LW) showed that

time was significantly different between imagination and simulation

for all the three tasks (p \ 0.001). Imagination was also different from

normal locomotion for R and LW (p \ 0.001), whereas simulation

was not different from actual locomotion for any of the tasks(R:

p = 0.636; W: p = 0.058; LW: p = 0.487). However, the number of

steps resulted significantly different between simulated and actual

locomotion for BW and LW. Repeated measure analysis of variance

using within subject factor simulated vs. actual locomotion showed

significant differences for the performed steps in LW (p \ 0.001) and

in BW (p = 0.036), whereas neither in W (p = 0.124) nor in R

(p = 0.391) significant differences were observed.

Conclusion: The performance time recorded during motor simulation

resulted closer to the actual locomotion than motor imagery for all the

locomotor acts. This study approached in an innovative way the motor

imagery topic focused on locomotion, revealing an important role of

motor simulation for improving motor performances.

ReferenceIosa M et al (2012) Walking there: environmental influence on

walking-distance estimation. Behav Brain Res 226:124–132

174 FP P

Subjective evaluations in virtual and real Zumba fitness

activity

G. F. Giancotti1, S. P. Sanhueza Alfaro1, L. Capranica2, C. Cortis1

1Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University

of Cassino e Lazio Meridionale, Cassino, Italy2Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome ‘‘Foro Italico’’, Rome, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare subjective parameters

during Zumba Classes (ZC) and the corresponding console-based

video game (Zumba Fitness Rush-ZFR).

Method: Ten college students (sport science majors; 5 males and

5 females; age 25 ± 2 years; height 1.7 ± 0.1 m; weight

64.1 ± 13.7 kg; BMI 22.9 ± 3.8) volunteered to participate in the

study. Ten minutes before (pre) a ZC (university fitness center) and

ZFR (XBOX Kinect, lesson 1, long version) Profile of Mood State

(POMS) questionnaire was administered. POMS and Physical

Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) data were also recorded 30-min

after (post) the end of the exercise. Energy expenditure (VO2) and

Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) were considered to evaluate the

exercise intensity as presented in a previous study. ANOVA for

repeated measures was applied to evaluate differences (p \ 0.05) in

relation to activity (ZC vs. ZFR), gender (males vs. females) and

experimental session (pre vs. post).

Results: No difference emerged for gender and activity in RPE (males:

ZC = 4.0 ± 2.0 pts; ZFR = 4.0 ± 1.0 pts; females: ZC = 4.5 ± 1.7

pts; ZFR = 2.3 ± 1.3 pts) and in VO2 (males: ZC = 24.8 ± 5.8 ml/kg/

min; ZFR = 20.4 ± 3.5 ml/kg/min; females: ZC = 26.0 ± 2.0 ml/kg/

min; ZFR = 22.3 ± 4.2 ml/kg/min).

Furthermore, no differences emerged PACES (ZC: males = 31.3 ±

4.0 pts, females = 31.5 ± 4.7 pts; ZFR: males = 30.2 ± 5.4 pts,

females = 31.4 ± 4.9 pts). Typical POMS iceberg profiles were

always observed, with differences (p \ 0.05) found only in Vigour-

activity in relation to gender (ZC-pre: males = 29.7 ± 4.0 pts,

females = 18.8 ± 3.6 pts; ZC-post: males = 30.3 ± 2.1 pts, fema-

les = 18.5 ± 5.1 pts; ZFR-pre: males = 26.0 ± 5.6 pts, females =

20.0 ± 2.5 pts; ZFR-post: males = 28.0 ± 5.2 pts, fema-

les = 20.8 ± 1.6 pts) and in fatigue-inertia (p \ 0.05) in ZFR in

relation to condition (pre = 3.6 ± 4.1 pts; post = 2.3 ± 2.5 pts).

Conclusion: Although no differences were observed in objective and

subjective evaluations of ZC and ZFR, gender differences emerged in

the vigour-activity scale with higher values found in males, probably

because of their higher fitness level. Moreover, the lower fatigue-

inertia values found at the end of ZFR could be the results of the

enjoyment of the music, able to provide dissociation from the exer-

cise-related fatigue and discomfort by shifting the focus to the

external information.

ReferencesBiagini et al (2012) J Strength Cond Res 26(7):1934–1938

Cortis et al (2014) Med Sci Sports Exerc 46:S63

Farne et al (1991) Organizzazioni Speciali

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Motor coordinator, body mass index, and sport

participation in 6-11 years old children

L. Pugliese1, M. Giuriato2, A. Caumo1, A. La Torre1

1Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan,

Milan, Italy2School of Sport Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

Aim: Motor coordination (MC) in childhood plays a crucial role in

the physical and psychological health in childhood and even

throughout the lifespan. Nevertheless a decline in MC among children

and an increase in child obesity have been reported. The aim of this

study was to examine the MC level in 6–11 years old children and its

relationship with BMI and sport participation.

Method: 240 Italian children of both gender participated in the study.

Participants were divided into three groups according to age and

school grade: 1� grade (G1) (n = 90, range = 6–7 years;

h = 1.23 ± 0.05 m; w = 24.9 ± 3.9 kg); 3� grade (G3) (n = 66,

range = 8–9 years; h = 1.34 ± 0.05 m; w = 32.3 ± 5.3 kg); 5�grade (G5) (n = 86, range = 10–11 years; h = 1.47 ± 0.06 m;

w = 40.2 ± 8.1 kg). Motor coordination was assessed through the

Korperkoordinationstest fur Kinder (KTK). Cut off points for BMI in

childhood were used to categorize the participants as underweight

(UW), normal (NW), overweight (OW) and obese (OB). Physical

activity (PA) of the parents was evaluated through IPAQ question-

naire with attached a dichotomous question about the participation in

organized sport activities of their children.

Results: A significant MQ decrease was found from G1 to G5 (G1,

99.7 ± 7.4; G3, 90 ± 6.65, G5, 84.6 ± 7.4). As for BMI, results

showed an increase of OW and OB children from G1 (OW = 11 %;

OB = 1 %) to G3 (OW = 32 %; OB = 3 %) and G5 (OW = 29 %;

OB = 9 %). A significant interaction was found between BMI and

MQ. OW and OB categories had MQ values significantly lower than

NW and UW (93.55 ± 11.35 vs. 86.2 ± 8.9). As for PA, a significant

interaction was found between parents IPAQ and children MQ. Par-

ents with a high level of PA have children with higher MQ respect to

parents with a low level of PA. No difference in MQ and BMI was

found between children involved in organized sport activities and

children not involved.

Conclusion: These data confirm a significant decrease in MC over the

years together with an alarming increase in child obesity. Relationship

between parents PA and children MQ suggest that family environ-

ment could have great influence in MC. The inconsistent relationship

between BMI and MC and sport activity suggest that children prob-

ably don’t achieve a sufficient stimulus during their organized

activity. In conclusion, efforts should be made in order to face the

decline in MC, to promote healthy eating habits and adequate levels

of physical activities.

ReferencesCole T et al (2000) Establishing a standard definition for child

overweight and obesity worldwide: international survey. BMJ

320:1–6

Vandorpe B et al (2011) The KorperkoordinationsTest fur Kinder:

reference values and suitability for 6–12-year-old children in

Flanders. Scand J Med Sci Sports, 378–388

176 FP P

The effects of neuromuscular training on upper body

strength in young students

R. Benis1, M. Roncelli1, L.Russo2, A. La Torre1

1Department of Biomedical Science for Health Physical Education,

University of Milan, Milan, Italy2Department of Applied and Clinical Science and Biotechnology,

University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy

Aim: Aim of this study is to measure the influence of a trunk and

lower limbs neuromuscular training program on upper limbs strength

in young students of secondary school.

Method: One-hundred twenty-four students of secondary school

ITG.S Giacomo Quarenghi of Bergamo (16 ± 2 y-o; 62.9 ± 8.4 kg;

174 ± 7 cm; 20.8 ± 3.1 kg/m2) were involved in a 9-weeks protocol

consisting of 2 session/week of 1 h of physical education. All subjects

were divided in two groups: 79 in the ‘‘experimental group’’ and 68 in

a ‘‘control group’’. The 15 min neuromuscular program consisted in

core endurance, plyometrics and strength exercises with use of body

weight, instead the control group performed the normal physical

education lessons plane. The program provides trunk and lower limbs

activity without exercises for upper limbs.

Subjects were tested at baseline (BL) and week 9 (W9). Upper body

strength is measured with a hand grip dynamometer. A paired t test

and a unpaired t test were used respectively to assess pre-post dif-

ferences within groups and between groups. Results were expressed

as mean ± SD. Significant differences were found at p \ 0.05.

Results: All participants completed the 9 weeks program with a mean

adherence of 90 %. No significant differences were found at BL in the

two groups. The experimental group at W9 showed significant

improvements in hand grip test with dominant hand. The control

group did not show any significant difference at W9 compared to BL.

Conclusion: The study shows how a neuromuscular training program,

designed for trunk and lower limbs, has a significant influence on the

isometric upper limbs strength in young students.

ReferencesGriffin LY et al (2005) Noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injuries:

risk factors and prevention strategies. J Am Acad Orthop Surg

8:141–150

Massy-Westropp et al (2011) Hand grip strength: age and gender

stratified normative data in a population-based study. BMC Res

Notes 4:127

Sartorio A et al (2002) The impact of gender, body dimension and

body composition on handgrip strength in healthy children.

J Endocrinol Invest 25:431–435

177 FP P

The slow strip set resistance training

A. Rossi, M. Chirico, D. Formenti, A. Trecroci, G. Alberti

Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan,

Milano, Italy

S78 Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89

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Aim: In order to enhance muscular power and strength, the American

College of Sports Medicine recommends performing high intensity

resistance training (HI-RT) lifting 70 % of 1RM. However, the same

achievements could be obtained performing low intensity resistance

exercise (20 % of 1RM) in conjunction with external wrapping

devices to restrict the blood flow (BFRRT). Similar effects are also

produced by relatively low intensity resistance training (50 % of

1RM) with slow movement and tonic force generation (LST). Alberti

et al. suggest performing low intensity resistance training with slow

movement until exhaustion using two overload strip (from 50 to 30 %

of 1RM) to obtain the same power and strength gain and to decrease

the injury risks. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a

new resistance training method on power and strength levels.

Methods: 22 amateur male Wing Chun martial artists

(31.82 ± 11.17 years; 23.64 ± 2.14 kg/m2) were recruited and ran-

domly divided into two groups: experimental group (EG) performed

4 weeks, 3 session per week, of slow strip set (SSS) on bench press in

addition to the baseline training while control group (CG) continued

their baseline training. Peak power (PP) and 1RM were assessed

before and after the training period. Paired t test and effect size (ES)

were used for statistical analysis, with confidence interval set at 95 %.

Results: Significant difference was not found between the two groups

before the training period in PP and 1RM. The EG improved PP

(p \ 0.001; ES = 0.63, moderate) and 1RM (p \ 0.001; ES = 0.53,

moderate), while the CG did not improve strength and power values

from pre to post training period.

Discussion: As expected, after 4 weeks of SSS training, 1RM and PP

on bench press were improved. The SSS resistance training permitted

to achieve the same power and strength gains of HI-RT, to obtain the

same neuromuscular adaptation of BFRRT and to decrease the injury

risk like in LST.

ReferencesAbe T et al (2006) Muscle size and strength are increased following

walk training with restricted venous blood flow from the leg

muscle, Kaatsu-walk training. J Appl Physiol 100:1460–1466

Tanimoto M et al (2009) Low-intensity resistance training with slow

movement and tonic force generation increases basal limb blood

flow. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging 29:128–135

Alberti G et al (2012) L’allenamento della forza a bassa velocita: il

metodo della serie lenta a scalare

178 FP P

The role of ankle–foot orthoses on walking parameters

L. Strassera1,2, E. Faelli1, F. Lofrano1,2, E. Pelosin2, L. Perasso1, M.

Bove1, P. Ruggeri1

1Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Institute of Human

Physiology, University of Genova, Italy2Department of Neurocience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology,

Genetics and Mother and Child Care, (DINOGMI), University

of Genova, Italy

Aim: In recent years, ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) have been used

extensively for treatment of patients with ankle injuries. Several

studies in subjects and athletes with functional ankle instability

reported the positive effects of AFOs on postural control while others

studies, investigating the role of AFOs on pathologic walking, showed

that gait with AFO results mechanically inefficient and leads to ele-

vated energy cost. The aim of this research was to study the effects of

short term use of AFO on walking parameters in healthy subjects.

Method: The orthosis was applied for 4 h on the dominant limb in 15

healthy subjects (age 29 ± 5.8). Subjects were asked to walk without

orthosis for 15 trials on GaitRite System in 3 different testing times:

basal condition (pre), immediately after the orthosis removal (post-4),

and after 1 h from the orthosis removal (post-5). Cadence, Velocity,

H-H base support, Stance and Swing parameters were measured

during the trials. Data analysis was performed using LSD test and

P \ 0.05 was considered as threshold for statistical significance.

Results: Mean cadence and velocity did not show any significant

difference after 4 h, whereas mean Swing, Stance and H-H base

support at post-4 significantly changed with respect to basal condi-

tion. In particular Swing, measured at post-4 in the limb without

orthosis showed a significant (P = 0.004) decrease compared to basal

value (pre: 39.3 % gait cycle; post 4: 38.8 % gait cycle) while Stance

at post-4 increased with respect to pre (pre = 60.7 % gait cycle; post-

4 = 61.3 % gait cycle) (P = 0.004). Similarly, H–H base support

measured at post-4 significantly (P \ 0.0001) increased compared

with basal value (pre = 8.1 cm; post-4 = 9.08 cm). At post-5 Swing,

Stance and H-H base support reached again their initial values.

Conclusion: This work demonstrated that a short term use of AFO

can significantly influence walking parameters in healthy subjects.

ReferencesBaier M, Hopf T (1998) Ankle orthoses effect on single-limb standing

balance in athletes with functional ankle instability. Arch Phys Med

Rehabil 79:939–944

Collins SH, Kuo AD (2010) Recycling energy to restore impaired

ankle function during human walking. PLoS ONE 5

ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

179 AP O

Physical exercise and bone: friends or foes?

G. Lombardi1, G. Banfi1,2

1Laboratory of Experimental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,

I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy2Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano,

Milan, Italy

About 70 % of the total inter-individual variance in bone density is

genetically determined, while, modifiable lifestyle factors (i.e., diet,

calcium intake, vitamin D status, physical activity) are crucial for

obtaining and maintaining the peak bone mass, especially in child-

hood and adolescence. Bone dynamically respond to environmental

stimuli by remodeling its architecture and increasing/decreasing its

density: mechanical loading represents the major anabolic stimulus.

Regular aerobic physical activity positively modulates bone density

and, thus, physical activity is considered effective in preventing and

treating bone loss and post-menopausal osteoporosis [1]. However,

different physical activities exert different effects on bone with the main

variables being the loading degree (weight-bearing vs. not-weight-

bearing) and the intensity/frequency (intermittent vs. continuous).

We focused on pro-cyclists, who experience a strenuous effort in

absence of load. The induction of bone resorption [+45 % TRAP5b

(osteoclast activity), +200 % in Sost (anti-anabolic), -100 % PINP

(formation)], was effort-dependent and two-way linked with other

tissues through the activation of signaling axes: bone-adipose tissue-

b-cells [2], bone-kidney [3], bone-gonads [4]. Changes in the serum

levels of the markers of these axes indicate the attempt in keeping

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homeostasis over the strenuous effort, although bone homeostasis

fails. These findings underline that the detrimental bony effects of

cycling might be considered in the management of athletes, especially

in young.

On the other hand, there is no consensus about intensity, duration,

and frequency of exercise to maximize bone accruement, or reverse

age-related bone loss. However, it seems that intermittent mechanical

stimulation is more osteogenic. When compared to continuous run-

ning, small-sided soccer games result in greater bone mineralization

in both youth and elderly [5].

Finally, it is necessary to consider that, whilst radiological mea-

sures cannot determine immediate changes in bone, serum levels of

bone turnover markers, reflecting bone cell metabolism, are useful

tools allowing serial evaluations of the bone status [6].

ReferencesLombardi G et al (2011) Eur J Appl Physiol 111:433–440

Lombardi G et al (2012) PLoS ONE 7:e42077

Lombardi G et al (2013) Scand J Med Sci Sports

Grasso D et al (2013) Scand J Med Sci Sports

Martyn-St James M, Carroll S (2010) J Bone Miner Metab

28:251–267

Banfi G et al (2010) Sports Med 40:697–714

180 AP OP

Influence of a flexibility training program

on psychophysical health of elderly women

G. Battaglia1, M. Bellafiore1, A. Paoli2, A. Bianco1, A. Palma1

1Department of Law, Social and Sport Sciences, University

of Palermo, Italy2Department of Biomedical Sciences, Physiological Laboratory,

University of Padova, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the influence of a specific

flexibility training program on the spinal health status and the health-

related quality of life (HRQoL) in female older subjects.

Method: Thirty older women were recruited in a senior centre of

Palermo and randomly assigned in two groups: trained group [TG] (n:

17; age 68.35 ± 6.04 years; BMI 27.28 ± 3.08) and control group

[CG] (n: 13; age 69.69 ± 7.94 years; BMI 27.88 ± 2.81). TG was

trained for 8 weeks by two sessions/week. In particular, every training

session included three phases: warm up (*10 min), central period

(*50 min) including specific exercises to train spinal flexibility, and

cool down (*10 min). CG did not perform any programmed physical

activity during the experimental period. Spinal ranges of motion

(ROM) were measured from neutral standing position (NSP) to

maximum bending position (MBP), and from NSP to maximum

extension position (MEP) before and after the experimental period

using the SpinalMouse� device (Idiag, Volkerswill, Switzerland).

HRQoL was evaluated by SF-36 Health Survey, which assesses

patients’ self reported health quality of life using physical and mental

composite scores. It investigated two dimensions: physical compo-

nent summary (PCS-36, physical domain of SF-36, scores ranging

from 0 to 70) and mental component summary (MCS-36, mental

domain of SF-36, scores ranging from 0 to 70).

Results: After the training period, TG showed an increase in thoracic

ROM by 22.5 % compared to CG from MEP to MBP. We did not

observe any significant difference in TG’s lumbar ROM compared to

CG after the training period (p [ 0.05) [1]. Moreover, we found

increased physical (PCS-36) and mental (MCS-36) component sum-

maries after the exercise period in TG compared to CG.

Conclusion: We found that the used training program performed for

8 weeks could improve the spinal flexibility and the health-related

quality of life in female older subjects. In agreement with the 2009

American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) position statement,

these data might increase the knowledge about the topic of method-

ology of geriatric gymnastic and improve psychophysical health

status in elderly people.

ReferenceBattaglia et al (2014) Changes in spinal range of motion after a

flexibility training program in elderly women. Clin Interv Aging 9

653–660

181 AP OP

Physical exercise: a new strategy to improve cognitive

function in COPD patients

G. Aquino1, A.Vardaro2, E. Iuliano1, A. di Cagno3, G. De Simone2,

G. Calcagno1

1Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise,

Italy2Casa Di Cura Villa Margherita, Benevento, Italy3Department of Health Science, University Foro Italico, Rome, Italy

Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of high intensity

combined training, on cognitive functions in subjects with chronic

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and then compare them with

the effects of high intensity aerobic training, in order to identify the

protocol that brings greater benefits.

Method: Fourteen COPD male subjects (68.35 ± 9.64), hospitalized

in a rehabilitation clinic, were recruited and divided into two groups

of physical training: Group 1 (combined training) and Group 2

(aerobic training). Both experimental groups were subjected to

physical reconditioning for 4 weeks, with a frequency of 5 training

sessions per week. Training program provided per day was: for Group

1 two sessions of 30 min (aerobic session: exercise on treadmill; and

strength session: strengthen exercises), for Group 2 one session of

30 min (only aerobic session: exercise on treadmill). Before and after

the experimental training protocol, the subjects were evaluated with

physical exercise tests and cognitive test (mental deterioration

battery).

Results: The statistical analysis shows improvement, for both groups,

in all physical exercise tests and in only a few specific cognitive

domains: long-term memory, verbal fluency and attentional capacity

(p \ 0.05). Moreover Group 1 improved also in apraxia and reason-

ing skills (p \ 0.05).

Conclusion: Results suggests that, in COPD patients, the combined

training may be a possible strategy to prevent cognitive decline, a

comorbidities associated with this respiratory disease.

ReferencesDodd JW et al (2010) Cognitive function in COPD. Eur Respir J

35(4):913–922

Liu-Ambrose T et al (2010) Resistance training and executive

functions: a 12-month randomized controlled trial. Arch Intern

Med 170(2):170–178

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182 AP OP

Association among sarcopenia, muscle strength,

physical activity and quality of life in healthy elderly

F. Cereda1, P. Vago1, M. Gatti2, L. Colombo2, M. Narici3

1Department of Pedagogy, University Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

of Milan, Italy2Department of Psychology, University Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

of Milan, Italy3School of Graduate Entry Medicine and Health Derby, University

of Nottingham, UK

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the association between

sarcopenia, muscle strength and variables related to quality of life in

elderly enrolled in a fitness center.

Method: 88 volunteers (40 male and 48 female) aged from 64 to

83 years (mean 72.3 ± 4.6 years), underwent the following mea-

surements: body composition analysis (BMI and BIA), handgrip

strength, quality of life level was measured using the Medical Out-

comes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF-36) translated

and validated for Italy (Apolone and Mosconi 1998) and physical

activity level of the participants measured with the IPAQ-short ver-

sion (Manocci et al. 2010). The data were analyzed with descriptive

statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results: Mean BMI was 26.5 (±3.7) in men and 24.7 (±3.5) in

women; Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34.3 (±3.2) in men and

30.8 (±4.9) in women; maximal handgrip was 40.6 (±6.9) kg in men

and 24.1 (±4.4) kg in women. A total of 43 subjects were classified as

non-sarcopenic and 45 as sarcopenic according Janssen et al. (2002).

The prevalence of sarcopenia in our cohort was 75 % in men and

31.25 % in women. We found a correlation between SMI and pain

(rho = -0.245; p \ 0.05), in particular sarcopenic or pre-sarcopenic

people reported a more intensive pain. Instead, in our sample there

was no correlation between SMI and physical activity level. However,

physical activity was positively correlated with social activities

(rho = 0.301; p \ 0.01).

Conclusion: In this population, low muscle mass was found to be

related with an increased perception of pain but not with the level of

physical activity. However this dimension was quite high, in fact

people were enrolled in a fitness center, were people have a social

activity. These two variables could represent protective factors for

health. It is noteworthy that the increased perception of pain in the

sarcopenic elderly does not result in an actual limitation of mobility,

this may be due to a reduction of inflammation afforded by regular

physical activity (Nicklas and Brinkley, Exerc Sport Sci Rev 37,

2009)

ReferencesBijlsma AY et al (2013) Diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia and

physical performance. Age (Dordr)

Janssen I et al (2002) Low relative skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia)

in older persons is associated with functional impairment and

physical disability. JAGS 50(5)

183 AP OP

Introducing adapted physical activity for obese patients

after bariatric surgery

A. Cirella1, F. Galle1, E. Giuliano2, V. Di Onofrio3, F. Siciliano1, S.

Forte1, A. M. Salzano2, G. Liguori2

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2Evangelic Hospital ‘‘Villa Betania’’, Naples, Italy3Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Naples

‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: Obesity is one of the main challenges of public health and a risk

condition for several diseases. To reach a target weight, obese patients

often resort to bariatric surgery. Since physical activity (PA) is pro-

tective for individuals of every age and condition, Adapted Physical

Activity (APA) could be useful in the management of weight post-

intervention. This study is aimed to verify how bariatric surgery

improves body weight and comorbidities in obese patients, and if

APA could contribute to increase these effects.

Method: The study consists of two phases. First of all, beneficial

effects of bariatric surgery on comorbidities in patients with Body

Mass Index (BMI) [30 kg/m2 were evaluated. A total of 142 sub-

jects (105 F, 37 M; mean age 33 years) who underwent to gastric

by-pass or banding were recruited. Demographic data, BMI, pre-

sence of comorbidities (type II diabetes, sleep apnoea, hypertension)

were evaluated at the time of intervention (T0) and after 13 months

(T13).

In the current phase, a sample of 60 patients (40 F, 20 M; mean

age 40 y) recruited after intervention was divided in two groups:

one of these was addressed to a structured APA program, while the

other represents the control group. BMI and body composition,

physical fitness (Senior Fitness Test), quality of life (Obesity-

Related WELL-being questionnaire) and motivation for change

(Dropout Risk Profile) were evaluated at the time of intervention

(T0) and measurements proceed bimonthly. The APA program is

structured in 2 h of sessions at week and includes coordination

floor exercises and walk, associated to periodic collective meetings

of counseling.

Results: Regarding the first phase, at the end of follow-up a 30 %

decrease of BMI was registered in by-pass patients and a 17 %

decrease in banding patients. Comorbidities, present at the beginning

in the 63 % of the sample, were reduced in all the patients. The

second phase of the study is now in progress. At T0 all the subjects

showed motor skills lower than normal levels and all of them per-

ceived the weight as the main obstacle to PA practice. The 94.7 % of

the experimental group showed a high dropout risk.

Conclusions: Our findings confirmed the beneficial effects of bari-

atric surgery on comorbidities in obese patients. Future results of the

structured program could demonstrate the role of APA in improving

these effects.

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184 AP OP

Elastic bands and strength performance in multiple

sclerosis patients: a longitudinal study

M. Gollin1, L. Beratto2, R. Allois3, A. Binelli3, C. Mazza3,

S. Di Tommaso3, F. Abate Daga3

1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences; Motor Science

Research Center, University School of Motor and Sport Sciences,

University of Turin, Italy2PhDc in Experimental Medicine and Therapy, University of Turin,

Italy3University School of Motor and Sport Sciences Graduate, University

of Turin, Italy

Aim: To investigate whether the Pilates method, compared with static

stretching and elastic band exercises, alters trunk flexibility, body

balance, spinal column posture and lower limb strength in a group of

subjects with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Method: The elastic group (EG) included 7 subjects (52 ± 10 years,

56 ± 5 kg, height 160 ± 6 cm, 2 ± 3 EDSS Expanded Disability

Status Scale). The Pilates group (PG) consisted of 7 subjects

(45 ± 6 years, 63 ± 15 kg, height 164 ± 6 cm, 2 ± 2 EDSS). The

static stretching group (SSG) included 8 subjects (50 ± 18 years,

64 ± 13 kg, 167 ± 10 cm in height, EDSS 4 ± 2). The groups were

evaluated after a month of learning the exercise techniques to elim-

inate the learning effect (T0), after a further 2 months (T1), and

finally after another 2 months training (T2), for an evaluation of the

effects caused by 4 months training.

Results: In EG between T0 vs. T1: (1) Dev. St. AP with open eyes

(post hoc, p \ 0.05, -35 %); (2) area with open eyes (post hoc,

p \ 0.05, -51 %); (3) Dev. St. AP with closed eyes (post hoc,

p \ 0.05, -26 %); (4) area with closed eyes (post hoc, p \ 0.01,

-52 %). A significant change was observed in SSG and PG between

T0 vs. T2 in the Sit and reach test (SSG, post hoc, p \ 0.05, +15 %

PG, post hoc, p \ 0.05, +15 %). A significant change was detected in

SSG between T0 vs. T2 in the inclination of the torso in the upright

position measured by the Spinal Mouse� (post hoc, p \ 0.05,

-55 %). In PG and EG a significant variation was also detected

between T0 vs. T2 in the Sit to stand test (PG, post hoc, p \ 0.01,

+31 %; GE, post hoc, p \ 0.05, +39 %).

Conclusion: EG increased the strength of the lower limbs and body

balance; PG improved the strength and flexibility of the lower limbs;

SSG (30 s) improved the lower back and hamstring flexibility.

185 AP OP

Physiological effects of aerobic training in chronic

stroke patients: mechanisms for changes in oxygen

consumption: a pilot study

A. Pedrinolla1, D. Munari1,2, N. Smania2, F. Schena1

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy2Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Center, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: The first aim of the study was to investigate the physiological

effect of a high intensity aerobic training in chronic stroke patients.

The second aim was to understand the mechanism of adaptation in

oxygen consumption (VO2peak) that occurs with a three-month aer-

obic training in this population.

Method: Six chronic stroke patients (age 60 ± 5 years; weight

87.0 ± 13.0 kg; high 1.72 ± 0.07 m; BMI 29.2 ± 3.1; VO2peak

21.0 ± 5.1 ml/kg/min) performed a three-month high intensity

treadmill training. The subject were screened by a medical assessment

consisting of resting electrocardiography (ECG) and rest ECG. The

subjects were evaluated before starting the training (T0) and after the

end of the training (T1). During the VO2peak test, were evaluated

central factors: cardiac output (CO) by mean of finger plentismog-

raphy, and peripheral factors: oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) and

deoxyhemoglobin (Hb) by mean of near infrared spectroscopy on

both legs. The training mode was uphill treadmill walking, 5 9 5 min

interval training at 95 % VO2peak preceded by 8-min warm-up on the

treadmill at 50 % of VO2peak.

Results: Relative VO2peak increased from a mean of 18.6 ± 2.7 to

24.8 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min. Absolute VO2peak increased from a mean of

1,630 ± 300 to 2,115 ± 377 ml/min. CO did not change signifi-

cantly. Peripheral factors did not change significantly in the healthy

side meanwhile in the paretic side only the deoxyhemoglobin

increased significantly, from a mean of 22.1–26.8 (lM). Correlation

between VO2peak (ml/kg/min) and CO (l/min) was not found. Cor-

relation between changes in healthy side peripheral factors and

VO2peak (ml/kg/min) were not found. A great correlation between

VO2peak (ml/kg/min) and change in deoxyhemoglobin (lM) in

paretic side was found (r = 0.95).

Conclusion: Three-month aerobic training allows significant

improvement in VO2peak (ml/kg/min) in chronic stroke patients. We

supposed that in this kind of population, the main adaptation occurs at

the peripheral level due to an increased muscle efficiency in the

oxygen uptake, especially in the paretic side.

ReferenceBillinger, Coughenour, MackKay-Lyons (2012) Reduced cardiore-

spiratory fitness after stroke: biological consequences and exercise-

induced adaptation. Stroke Res Treat

186 AP OP

The effect of physical training in Special Olympics

athletes with intellectual disabilities

P. R. Brustio1,2, S. Albertano, E. Rabaglietti1,2, M. E. Liubicich1

1SUISM, University of Torino, Italy2Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Italy

Aim: It has been well documented that persons with intellectual

disabilities have lower levels of postural balance, compared with

peers without intellectual disability, worse performance in everyday

self-management, and increased falling risk. Special Olympics

International (SOI) may be a means to enhance the overall wellbeing

and to promote the social inclusion in persons with intellectual dis-

abilities. The aim of this study was to assess the effect and gender-

related difference of a Special Olympics training on balance in a

sample of adult athletes.

Methods: We analyzed the data and autonomy of 16 adults

(M = 32.25 ± 7 years) with different range of intellectual disability.

They were Special Olympics athletes. The sample was composed of

6 men (M = 30.8 ± 5.7 years) and 10 females (M = 33.1 ±

7.8 years). The sample followed a training based on Special Olympics

competition for 15 weeks, twice a week for 90 min per session.

Subjects were examined at baseline and post-intervention by means of

a selection test including the Tandem Stance Test and the One Leg

Stance Test. Non-parametric analyses were used to assess differences

from baseline measures and the post-intervention. The significance

level was set at p \ 0.05.

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Results: The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test showed a difference

from baseline to post-intervention in Tandem Stance Test

from Mdn = 10.57 s to Mdn = 34.24 s (z = -1.988, p \ 0.05),

while the data showed an improvement, without significant result, in

the performance of One Leg Stance Test from Mdn = 2.45 s

to Mdn = 11.09 s.

Conclusions: The results of this study, with the limitations due to the

low number and the heterogeneity of the sample, showed as a target

Special Olympics training may be a feasible opportunity to increase

the physical function and the health in adults with intellectual

disability.

ReferencesBlomqvist S et al (2013) Adolescents with intellectual disability have

reduced postural balance and muscle performance in trunk and

lower limbs compared to peers without intellectual disability. Res

Dev Disabil 34(1):198–206

Cuesta-Vargas AI et al (2011) Physical fitness profile in adults with

intellectual disabilities: differences between levels of sport

practice. Res Dev Disabil 32(2):788–794

Chiba Y et al (2009) Risk of fall for individuals with intellectual

disability. J Inf 114(4):225–236

187 AP P

Lifestyle and health related quality of life in adolescents

with type 1 diabetes mellitus

E. Mozzillo1,2, E. Zito1, E. De Nitto1, V. Gallarato2, P. Tortorelli2, A.

Franzese1, G. Valerio2

1Department of Translational Medical Science, Federico II University

of Naples2Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: Adolescence is a critical period of life, particularly in young

patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Health lifestyle is one

of the pillars of the T1DM treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the

association between lifestyle and Health Related Quality of Life

(HRQoL) in adolescents with T1DM.

Method: Lifestyle and HRQoL were assessed in 69 T1DM adoles-

cents (34 males, mean age 15.8 ± 1.7 years, duration of T1DM

C2 years), without any other disease apart T1DM) attending the

Pediatric Diabetology Regional Center, at Federico II University.

Lifestyle was evaluated through a questionnaire by assessing: health

nutrition (KIDMED), moderate/intense physical activity, sports par-

ticipation, hours/day of television viewing, consumption of tobacco,

consumption of alcohol. Health Style (HS+) was defined by concur-

rence of at least four of the following behaviors: KIDMED C8,

physical activity for 7 days/week, television \2 h/day, no consump-

tion of tobacco, no consumption of alcohol. HRQoL was evaluated

with the PedsQLTM 3.0 Diabetes Module, composed by five scales:

(1) diabetes symptoms, (2) management difficulties, (3) adherence to

therapy, (4) worry and (5) communication.

Results: Only 18 T1DM adolescents (26 %) were HS+. They showed

higher scores in scales 1, 3 and 4 of the PedsQLthan their peers who

did not report any health behavior (p \ 0.05); no difference was

found in scale 2. Higher scores (p \ 0.05) were also found in the less

sedentary adolescents (scale 1) and in those who were involved in

sports participation (scale 5).

Conclusion: HS+ adolescents with T1DM perceived the illness less

problematically and showed increased adherence to treatment, were

less concerned about the disease and communicated more with dia-

betologists and sanitary team. This is the first preliminary study

investigating the association between HRQoL and a cluster of healthy

behaviors in T1DM patients.

ReferencesKalyva E et al (2011) Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of

children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM): self and parental

perceptions. Pediatr Diabetes 12:34–40

Moreno-Gomez C et al (2012) Clustering of lifestyle factors in

Spanish university students: the relationship between smoking,

alcohol consumption, physical activity and diet quality. Public

Health Nutr 15(11):2131–2139

188 AP P

Water versus land-based exercise in older women

P. R. Brustio1,2, D. Magistro3, G. Del Bono, M. E. Liubicich1

1SUISM, University of Torino, Italy;2Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Italy;3Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, IDAC, Tohoku

University, Japan

Aim: Independent and safe mobility is an important issue for a suc-

cessful aging. A growing body of literature emphasizes the benefits of

the regular physical training. The aim of this study was to compare

the effect on balance of 16-week water and land-based physical

trainings in a sample of older women.

Methods: 24 older women were recruited and entered into the study.

The sample was divided into two groups: a water-based group

(n = 12, M = 67.36 ± 4.2 years) and a land-based group

(n = 12, M = 84.39 ± 5.6 years). In accordance with the ACSM

guidelines the land-based physical training focused on strength and

balance exercises including warm-up and cool-down exercise, while

the water-based training consisted of stretching and warm-up exer-

cise, endurance (e.g. walking) and resistance intensity progression

exercises, and cool-down exercise. The trainings were composed of

sessions, each 1 h, twice a week for 16 weeks. The trainings were

supervised by instructors graduated in Physical Activity and Sport

Sciences. Subjects were examined at baseline and after 16 weeks by

means of the One Leg Stance Test (OLST) and the Timed Up and Go

Test (TUG). Data were analyzed with non-parametric statistics. The

significance level was p \ 0.05.

Results: At baseline the water-based group and the land-based group

were homogeneous for the investigated variables (OLST:

U = 55.000, z = -0.981, p [ 0.05; TUG: U = 70.500, z = -0.087,

p [ 0.05). After 16 weeks of trainings the water-based group showed

a significant difference in OLST and TUG (z = -3.059, p \ 0.05;

z = -3.061, p \ 0.05 respectively), while the land-based group

showed an improvement in OLST (z = -2.118, p \ 0.05). No sig-

nificant differences were found in the variables measured between the

two groups after the 16 weeks.

Conclusions: The study underlined the benefits of the regular phys-

ical training for the well-being of older women. Water-based exercise

Sport Sci Health (2014) 10 (Suppl 1):S1–S89 S83

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might be an alternative exercise for older adults, due to the low-risk

nature supplied by water.

ReferencesChodzko-Zajko WJ et al (2009) American College of Sports Medicine

position stand. Exercise and physical activity for older adults. Med

Sci Sports Exerc 41(7):1510–1530

Takeshima N et al (2002) Water-based exercise improves health-

related aspects of fitness in older women. Med Sci Sports Exerc

34(3):544–551

189 AP P

Adapted swimming physical activity for a child

with cerebral palsy: maintaining the achieved

outcomes: a case report

A. Fusco1,2, M. C. Gallotta1, C. Giuliobello1, C. Baldari1, L. Guidetti1

1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University

of Rome Foro Italico, Italy2Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS

Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy

Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of adapted

physical activity (swimming) in terms of locomotor abilities (walk-

ing) and functional capacities (strength and manual dexterity) after a

six-months training in subject (female, 12 years) affected by right

side hemiparesis due to a cerebral palsy.

Method: Three assessments were performed, after a full year of

swimming adapted training plus motor rehabilitation, after the

3.5 months of the summer rest and after 6 months of only swimming

adapted training. The evaluations consisted of: gait analyses of

walking (OptoGait�, inertial unit GYKO, Microgate, Italy, fre-

quency = 100 Hz); assessment of grip strength (by means of a

dynamometer) and manual dexterity (by means of Nine Hole Peg

Test).

Results: After the 2nd evaluation, it was noted a global reduction of

the temporal parameters, especially in the right side (gait cycle: from

1.021 to 0.75 s, -36.1 %; right step -60.1 %, left step -20.1 %) and

of the walking speed (from 0.96 to 0.83 m/s, -15.7 %; right step

-23.1 %). This meant an increase of the gait cadence (gait cycle/min,

+19 %), With regard to gait cycle, there was an increase of the double

support time (+33.3 %), due to an increase of the stance phase

(+22.5 %) with a reduction of the swing phase (-84.7 %) in the

hemiparetic side. Moreover, the length of the right step was also

reduced (-37.9 %).

After the 3rd evaluation, the achieved results at the were globally

confirmed. No substantial differences were noted in the gait cycle

(+4.3 %), gait cadence (-1.4 %) and in the walking speed (-5.1 %).

Also the stance and swing phases of the right side were maintained,

even if there was a reduction of the double support time (-29.1 %).

The right step was further shortened (-32.8 %). No differences were

noted for force and manual dexterity during the analyzed period of

time.

Conclusion: We have found that the absence of both rehabilitation

and adapted physical activity leaded to a substantial change of the

spatio-temporal gait parameters, resulting in a shorter and faster

walking. The restart of the adapted aquatic physical activity, even if

not coupled with rehabilitation, permitted the maintenance the

achieved outcomes. No influences were demonstrated by the adopted

physical activity for the manual performances.

ReferenceIosa M et al (2013) Ability and stability of running and walking in

children with cerebral palsy. Neuropediatrics 44:147–154

190 AP P

A 9-month program of adapted tango: the effects

in adults with visual impairment

R. Gallo, P. R. Brustio1,2, C. Zignin1, A. Perissinotto3,

M. E. Liubicich1

1SUISM, University of Torino, Torino, Italy2Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy3Department of Philosophy and Educational Sciences, University

of Torino, Torino, Italy

Aim: Visually impaired persons present an increased risk of chronic

health problems and an independence decrease underlining the need

of a specific program on physical function. The aim of this study

was to assess the effect of 9 months of an adapted tango program on

physical function in a sample of middle-age visually impaired

adults.

Method: Nine subjects (4 M/5 W; M = 55.5 ± 9.9 years) with

visual impairment entered in the study. The participants followed an

adapted tango program composed of sessions, each of 1.30 h, once a

week for 9 months under the supervision of a tango instructor,

graduated in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, and 4 assistants.

The adapted program consisted of progressive exercises of Argentine

Tango technique and sequence of with particular attention on the

quality of the movement and the postural control. We collected

baseline, midway and post-test measurements of One Leg Stand Test,

Tandem Test and an adapted Four Square Step Test. A Friedman test

and pairwise comparisons with a Bonferroni correction for multiple

comparisons were performed. The significance level was p \ 0.05.

Results: The results showed a statistically significant difference in

the adapted Four Square Step at the different time points during the

adapted tango program, v2 (2) = 7.324, p \ 0.023. Post hoc analysis

revealed statistically significant differences in the adapted Four

Square Step Test from baseline (M = 9.3 ± 1.65 s) to post test

(M = 7.2 ± 1.3 s), but not at baseline and midway. Furthermore the

results showed an improvement in the performance of the One Leg

Stance (baseline M = 9 ± 8.15 s; post test M = 11.94 ± 14.11 s)

but no significant differences were found (v2 (2) = 1.600, p [ 0.05).

Conclusion: The results of this study underline the benefit of an

adapted tango program for improving the physical function in middle-

age visually impaired adults. Physical activity, with a program of

adapted tango, can change the lifestyle by fighting the physical

inactivity, promoting the adherence at movement and contributing to

the well-being in adults with visual impairment.

ReferencesCapella-McDonnall M (2007) The need for health promotion for

adults who are visually impaired. J Vis Impairment Blindness

101(3):133–145

Ray CT et al (2007) Clinical assessment of functional movement in

adults with visual impairment. J Vis Impairment Blindness

101(2):108–113

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191 AP P

Repeatability analysis of sledge hockey tests

M. Gollin1, S. Saporito2, A. Chiarotti3

1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Motor Science

Research Center, University School of Motor and Sport Sciences,

University of Turin, Italy2Motor and Sport Sciences Graduate, University of Turin, Italy3University School of Motor and Sport Sciences, University of Turin,

Italy

Aim: To measure the repeatability of a specific physical and coor-

dinative test with and without puck in an Italian national sledge

hockey team.

Method: For both tests were investigated 8 sledge hockey players

with different disability. In the first test (without puck) the sample

group had age of 36 ± 11, weight of 78 ± 12 kg and height

178 ± 5 cm, while the second sample group (with puck) had age of

35 ± 12, weight of 76 ± 11 kg and height 177 ± 5 cm. The test

criteria regarding the repeatability were: to perform 3 tests on the

same day in 3 different days in a week. The track is 121.6 m long and

stimulates several movements of the discipline as if the athletes had to

curve or change direction. For the sampling of the data were used in

the first test of the photocells Racetime 2-Light Kit Radio (Microlink-

Microgate, Bolzano, Italy) in the second test were used the function

‘‘chronometer’’ of Garmin Forerunner 310 XT (Garmin, USA).

Results: The ICC test without the puck showed a data of 96 %. The

variance elements assume values of 1.7 % in relation to the mea-

surements repeated on different days (VD) and 2.6 % inherent to the

repetition of the tests (VT). The SEM (standard error of the mean)

within, i.e. the error from the repetition of the test on the same person

is equal to 0.6 %, while the SEM between, due to the repetition of

measurements on different days is 3.2 %. The test with the puck

showed a repeatability level of 93 %. The VD elements assume

values of 2.3 % while VT is 4.7 %. The SEM within is equal to

0.9 %, while the SEM between is 3.7 %. The data were analyzed with

the software Matlab 6.

Conclusion: In both tests, with and without puck, the ICC results

showed excellent values, ranging between 90 and 100 %, and this

supports the research and offers the possibility to investigate physical

and technical condition in sledge hockey.

192 AP P

A comparison between able-bodied athletes and athletes

with disabilities: time series analysis searching

for a performance coefficient

M. Ivaldi1, G. Cugliari2, C. Colombatto1, A. Rainoldi3

1S.U.I.S.M., University of Turin, Italy2Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, Medical

and Genomic Statistics Unit, University of Pavia, Italy3S.U.I.S.M., Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin,

Italy

Aim: The work aims to analyze the best sport results of disabled and

able-bodied athletes in athletics and swimming, in international

competitions: World Cup, Paralympic and Olympic games, between

2000 and 2013. The goal of the study is to find a perfor-

mance coefficient (pc) that allows to calculate the corresponding

record of a sporting elite disabled athlete without the disability

situation.

Method: The study includes the collection of the top eight results and

the temporal trend of better performance of able-bodied and disabled

athletes in athletics and swimming. The last 26 international com-

petitions were analyzed for the following specialties: 100, 200, 400,

800, 1,500, 5,000 m, marathon, 4 9 100 and 4 9 400 m relay for

athletics and 50, 100, 200, 400 m freestyle and 50 and 100 m back-

stroke for swimming. The categories of disabilities were T42, T44,

T46 for athletics and S3, S4, S6, S7, S8, S9, S10 for swimming.

Results: The analysis of time series both for the top eight results and

for best performance allowed to calculate the performance coeffi-

cient. This pc enables, according to the result obtained by the

disabled athlete in one of the athletics or swimming specialties

described, as a function of disability and gender, to assume the cor-

responding result without the condition of disability, according to the

following formula:

E½nt� ¼ it pc

where nt = normalized time (s), it = individual time (s), pc = n-1

Pi=1n xia/n-1P

i=1n xid, x = best eight times (s) in the period from

2000 to 2013, d = disability category, a = able-bodied category.

Conclusion: The analysis of time series showed, according with the

literature [1], that the classes with greater disability have a higher

variability of results in the top eight and in the best performances.

This variability is due to several factors: poor selection of athletes,

variability of disability, prostheses and orthoses improvement. In

recent years the Paralympic movement has grown quickly, making the

functional classification system obsolete, necessitating an update

based on experimental evidence. For the first time, herein a coefficient

was proposed to compare results between able-bodied and disabled

athletes; the use of this coefficient could allow in the future to have a

direct comparison of the results, with a strongly inclusive value.

Reference[1] Fulton, Sacha K et al (2009) Variability and progression in

competitive performance of Paralympic swimmers. J Sports Sci

27.5:535–539

193 AP P

Spatial learning in Down and Williams syndromes

analyzed through an ecological task

L. Mandolesi1,2, F. Foti2,3, P. De Bartolo2, L. Petrosini2,3

1Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University

of Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy2IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy3Department of Psychology, University of Rome ‘‘La Sapienza’’,

Rome, Italy

Aim: The objective of the present study was to analyze by means of

radial arm maze (RAM), a large-scale behavioral and ecological task,

the spatial abilities in individuals with Down syndrome (DS) and

Williams syndrome (WS).

Method: We examined the performances in RAM task of 12 indi-

viduals with DS with chronological age (CA) of 17.04 years and

mental age (MA) of 6.06 years, and 12 individuals with WS (CA

16.02 years, MA 6.06 years). Fifteen right-handed typically devel-

oping (TD) children, MA matched with DS and WS groups (CA

6.06 years, MA 6.05 years), formed the control group. All partici-

pants were trained in the free-choice version and in the forced-choice

version of the RAM.

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Results: In the free-choice paradigm, the DS and WS individuals took

about 60 s more than TD subjects to explore the maze. In spatial span

(the longest sequence of correctly visited arms), the syndromic groups

obtained lower values than TD children, while only WS individuals

made more errors than the other groups. In the forced-choice para-

digm, DS and WS groups made more errors than TD children and

continued to put into action mainly an algorithmic strategy (enter

adjacent arms) even to perform wrong visits suggesting thus an

impairment in procedural components.

Conclusion: The findings evidenced the impairment of DS and WS

individuals in solving the RAM task with variable severity depending

on the paradigm requests. Since the RAM is a task that allows the

acquisition of spatial competences through the walking, we advance

that the spatial deficits observed in these genetic syndromes may be

related to the malfunctioning of spatial and motor integrative

processing.

ReferencesFoti et al (2011) Behav Genet 41:445–456

Mandolesi L et al (2009) Int J Dev Neurosci 27:789–797

194 AP P

A psychological intervention with special athletes

L. Rio1, F. Gomez Paloma1, D. Tafuri2

1Department of Human, Philosophical and Education Science,

University of Salerno, Italy2Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to provide an ‘‘adapted’’ mental

training protocol, targeted at registered athletes with the Italian Pa-

ralympic Committee (CIP) and the Special Olympics, and verify its

effectiveness in the psycho-physical perception of athletes. In sports

activities, training is the focus for the achievement of any target.

Martens (1987) highlighted the need to address the mental and psy-

chological preparation of the athlete in a multimodal way (motor

training and mental skills).

Method: The protocol was applied to a fairly small sample: an

experimental group and a control group consisting of 10 athletes each,

both belonging to the under-16 class. The choice of protocol, has

fallen on the S.F.E.R.A. method, theorized by Professor Vercelli and

his staff at the University of Turin, because it is a recent method

applied in various professional sports areas with concrete results. The

Multidimensional Test PSDQ (Marsh et al. 1994), was considered the

most suitable for testing the presence of a positive global perceptual

change in the Experimental Group.

Results: After a particularly analysis, the orientation of the responses

to the positive indicators of truth showed a radical improvement of the

psycho-physical perception of athletes ([50 %). This has proved that,

especially for special athletes, the alliance between mind and body is

essential to build and achieve maximum performance. It must be built

on solid foundations, starting to develop and strengthen mental abil-

ities since the beginning of the training of an athlete (even more so if

disabled).

Conclusion: The psychological intervention is fundamental to

develop and train motor skills and strategies, adjust the goals, achieve

motivation, control anxiety, focus energy and attention, improve

confidence in themselves and self-awareness. Being in the maximum

performance allow to enjoy the perfect sync with the world, with

others, listening to the sensations we feel in the present moment,

learning to enjoy the pleasure of living the path and goal.

ReferencesMarsh HW, Richards GE, Johnson S, Roche L, Tremayne P (1994)

Physical Self-Description Questionnaire: psychometric properties

and multitrait-multimethod analysis of relations to existing instru-

ments. J Sport Exerc Psychol 16:270–305

Martens (1987) Science, knowledge and sport psychology. Sport

Psychol

Vercelli G (2011) Vincere con la mente. Come si diventa campioni: lo

stato della massima prestazione. Ponte alle Grazie, Milano

195 AP P

Effects of a dual-task training programme on balance

in the elderly

R. A. Rosa1, I. Sannicandro2

1PhD School of Health Sciences and Well-being, University of Bari,

Italy2Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University

of Foggia, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a training

programme based on manual and cognitive dual-tasks on balance

capacity in a group of elderly subjects. Functional performance is

hampered in the elderly when two activities are performed contem-

poraneously, even if one of the two actions constitutes an apparently

automatic task, such as walking or the maintenance of postural

stability.

Methods: Thirty-four elderly subjects (15 M and 19 F), mean age

72.35 ± 7.1 years, were subdivided into a control group (CG; 11F

and 10M) and experimental group (EG; 7F and 6M). The inclusion

criterion for both groups was a score C24 in the Mini Mental State

Examination. The TUG-COG (cognitive task) and TUG-MAN

(manual task) tests and the single leg stance test (SLS; balance task)

were used to assess performance pre- and post-training (T0 and T1,

respectively). The EG training programme involved manual and

cognitive dual-task activities, while the CG performed strength,

flexibility and static and dynamic balance training activities. Training

sessions (lasting 1 h) were performed twice-weekly over a total of

12 weeks. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to test

for correlations between performance in the SLS vs. TUG tests at T0

and T1. Statistical significance was fixed at P \ 0.05.

Results: No significant changes in performance were noted in the CG

between T0 and T1. In the EG, at T1, significant correlations were

found between: SLS-right leg and TUG-COG (r = -0.626, N = 13,

p \ 0.05); SLS-right leg and TUG-MAN (r = -0.666, N = 13,

p \ 0.05); SLS-left leg and TUG-COG (r = -0.569, N = 13,

p \ 0.05); and SLS-left leg and TUG-MAN (r = -0.614, N = 13,

p \ 0.05). The results here agree with those of previous studies and

demonstrate that in the elderly impaired dual-task balance perfor-

mance predicts adverse outcomes such as falls.

Conclusions: Integrated motor training programmes directed at the

recovery of both motor and cognitive capacities in the elderly produce

better results than those directed at motor capacities alone.

ReferencesBrustio PR et al Dual-task e cammino: interferenze del doppio

compito nella popolazione anziana. Una rassegna della letteratura

GIPS Giornale Italiano di Psicologia dello Sport 18:23–28

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Silsupadol P et al (2009) Effects of single-task versus dual-task

training on balance performance in older adults: a double-blind,

randomized controlled trial. Arch Phys Med Rehabil

90(3):381–387

196 AP P

Dance sport and inclusion

R. Scarpa, D. Tafuri, G. Raiola

Department DISUFF, University of Salerno, Italy

Aim: The aim of this work is to assess whether, in dance choreog-

raphy you can actually talk about inclusion/integration of persons

with different disabilities. So on, how a dance group relates to them

and how dance sport in particular trying to figure out, if the dance

sport lends itself to be an efficient means to achieve well-being of the

individual and the group.

Method: It was administered to a dance group made up of 10 female

persons of the age between 16 and 25 years a questionnaire consists

of closed-response questions:1.Have you ever heard of integration/inclusion?

2.Do you consider dance a useful activity for this purpose?

3.Have you ever had in your group a disabled?

4.Do you think that a mixed group composed of able-bodied and

disabled can be a trump card in group sports and in particular in

dance?

5.Do you think that in dance sport it is possible to talk about

integration/inclusion?

Results: They are as follows:Question 1: 70 % answered yes, 10 % no and 20 % have heard of it in

part.

Question 2: 80 % answered yes, while 20 % answered in part.

Question 3: 90 % answered no, only 10 % answered yes.

Question 4: 50 % answered yes, and the other 50 % responded in part.

Question 5: 70 % answered yes, 20 % responded in part and 10 %

said no.

Conclusion: The analysis of these results shows that in dance sport

the presence of a differently abled is accepted but not actually present,

at least not in the sample considered. But research shows that a large

percentage sees the dance sport as a considerable means to lead to the

achievement of an individual well-being, then comes the preparation

of this sport to an inclusive view that can lead to positive results even

in the context of disability.

ReferencesAltavilla G, Furino F, Raiola G (2014) Body, communication and

visual impairment. Acta Kinesiol 8:1

Mannucci A (2003) Comunicare con la mente e il corpo. Tirrenia (PI),

Del Cerro

Raiola G, Tafuri D, Gomez Paloma F (2014) Physical activity and

sport skills and its relation to mind theory on motor control. Sport

Sci 8:2

197 AP P

An integrated APA home-care program for an elder

with spinal cord injury

E. Tasso1, P. Marchisio2, R. Luzzago3, F. Vitali4

1ASL3 Sanitary District and School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical

Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy2ASL3 Sanitary District of Genoa, Italy3School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University

of Genoa, Italy4Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Italy

Aim: Chronic diseasesare important determinant of quality of life and

the first global cause of death. Studies show that regular physical

activity reduces the risk of morbidity and mortality due to several

chronic diseases. Regular physical activity can reduce the decrease in

balance, flexibility, strength, and increase resilience. An innovative

integrated Adapted Physical Activity (APA) home-care service pro-

gram has been carried out in 10thGenoa’s Socio Sanitary District

from 2012 to foster rehabilitation and health for a person with post-

traumatic sub-complete spinal cord injury (C5–C6).

Methods: Several psychophysical functional abilities were measured

administering Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales; Modified Barthel

Index; Range of Motion and Manual Muscular Testing and Rating of

Perceived Exertion Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and

the Physical Imagery Questionnaire.

Results: Data were analyzed following qualitative and quantitative

statistical procedures. Significant results of improvement or stability

were found on observed measures over time.

Conclusions: From results important suggestions come out, supply-

ing information to develop the theoretical debate on rehabilitation and

health APA program to support in an socio-sanitary integrated care

person with high disability.

ReferencesDurstine et al (2000) Physical activity for the chronically ill and

disabled. Sports Med 30:207–219

Min Lee et al I (2012) Effect of physical inactivity on major non-

communicable diseases worldwide: an analysis of burden of

disease and life expectancy. Lancet 380:9838:219–229

Wise et al (2009) Home physical activity programs for the promotion

of health and wellness in individuals with spinal cord injury. Topics

spinal cord injury rehabilitation, vol 14, no 4. Thomas Land

Publishers Inc

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198 AP P

Foster health and life-style with an Adapted Physical

Activity program for elders with frailty and disability

in Genoa

E. Tasso1, F. Vitali2

1ASL3 Sanitary District and School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical

Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy2Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University

of Verona, Verona, Italy

Aim: Enhancing health preventing inactivity is one of W.H.O.’s

general purpose. Inactivity is one of the most common risk factors for

non-communicable and chronic diseases. Currently an Adapted

Physical Activity (APA) program for elders with frailty and disability

is been conducting in Genoa supported by socio-sanitary decision

makers. An integrated socio-sanitary team manage the APA program.

APA philosophy supports an attitude of acceptance of individual

differences, promotes innovation and cooperative service delivery and

empowerment systems. The aim of this APA program is to help

elderly with frailty and disability not only physically, but also

increasing socialization and fostering secondary prevention.

Methods: This study investigates some physical abilities and func-

tionalities (e.g., strength and flexibility) (Barthel Index; SPPB), and

some psychosocial dimensions (e.g., perceived competence, motiva-

tion) referred to elders quality of life. 500 participants were divided in

two groups: the first (high function) composed by elders with some

chronic physical diseases; the second group (low function) included

elders former patients of the Physiotherapy Service previously

physically rehabilitated.

Results: Physical abilities and functionalities has improved and

determinants of quality of life of elders have been enhanced.

Conclusion: The presented APA program in Genoa can improve

quality of life of elders that cope with pathological chronic disease

and it can decrease the number of inactive old people.

ReferencesBianco et al. (2005) Insegnare e far vivere le attivita motorie adattate.

La Lontra Editrice, Busalla

De Pauw K (2000) ICSSPE. Vade Mecum. Directory of Sport

Sciences, 2nd edn

Naci et al (2013) Comparative effectiveness of exercise and drug

interventions on mortality outcomes: metaepidemiological study.

BMJ

WHO (2013) Global action plan 2013_2020

199 AP P

Football in mental health, study of practice

P. Tritone, D. Tafuri, G. Raiola

Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of

Naples ‘‘Parthenope’’, Naples, Italy

Aim: The aim of this study was to submit a practice in the game of

football for patients of mental health. Verification of the results

obtained in tests of praxis.

Method: 2 groups of 10 patients, one control and one experimental

(patients football group). The experimental group will participate in

training sessions with exercises of a general character and special

character, then play football matches. Both groups underwent tests:

VADO (Valuation Activities Defining Objectives) that uses the FPS

(scale of the personal functioning) scale that assesses levels of

socially useful activities, personal relationships and social care of the

appearance and hygiene and disturbing and aggressive behaviors;

‘‘2 km walking test’’ a simple field tests that allows you to simulta-

neously evaluate the functionality of the cardiovascular, respiratory

and musculoskeletal. Measurement of BMI (Body Mass Index), the

parameter used as indicator of healthy weight patients. Tests and

measurements shall be made before the start of activities in mid-cycle

and at the end.

Results: Analysis of the data shows that: the BMI decreased for

patients belonging to the experimental group while it tends to be the

same or increase for patients in the control group; FPS scores show

that patients in the experimental group improved compared with

patients in the control group; the level of physical fitness is improved

for all patients in the experimental group, the control group is the

same or worsened.

Conclusion: After the analysis, we can say that this practice allows

the improvement of the state of physical, mental, social and relational,

raising the quality of life of the person. There is a need to continue the

study of the practice revisit and improve it.

ReferencesBuono P, Bucci M, Calcagno G, Capaldo B, Condorelli D, Corigliano

G, Liguori G, Martone D, Orru S, Pigozzi F, Riccardi G, Tafuri D,

Valerio G (2009) Attivita fisica per la salute, Idelson Gnocchi, pp

114, 139–173, 199–215, 241–266, 278–338

Polidoro L, Bianchi F, Di Tore PA, Raiola G (2013) Futsal training by

video analysis. J Hum Sport Exerc 8:290–296

Raiola G, Tafuri D, Gomez Paloma F (2014) Physical activity and

sport skills and its relation to mind theory on motor control. Sport

Sci 8:2

200 AP P

Home-based and extreme exercise in pancreatic cancer:

a case study

A. Pedrinolla1, P. Cormie2, A. Mambrini3, F. Schena1,

L. Paolo Ardigo1

1Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, School

of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy2Edith Cowan University, Health and Wellness Institute, Edith Cowan

University, Joondalup, Australia3Azienda USL 1 Massa e Carrara, Carrara Hospital, Massa e

Carrara, Italy

Aim: In the recent literature, it has been shown that exercise is well

tolerated by pancreatic cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Our

case study was primarily aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a

home-based walking program in a pancreatic cancer patient under-

going chemotherapy. The secondary aim was to find out whether

extreme exercise presented a so high intensity to make exercise not

any more bearable in the same subject.

Method: A very physically active man with diagnosis of pancreatic

cancer in September 2013 did not stop performing his usual walking

and therefore was provided with a GPS receiver to record it. So we

obtained mean speed (km/h), and walked distance (km) for any walk

he did after the diagnosis. White blood cells (WBC), platelets (PLT),

and hemoglobin (HGB) concentration during the therapy were mon-

itored. In addition, the subject performed a 24 h non-stop ultra-

endurance walking (24NSW) in March 2014. During the event, every

6 h we measured (1) oxygen consumption (VO2) and metabolic cost

(C) with a portable metabograh. (2) Overall (OA), lower limbs (LL),

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and upper limbs (UL) rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were mea-

sured by means of 6–20 Borg scale.

Results: Since the diagnosis, the subject completed 53 walks in a

period of 8 months covering a total distance of 662 km, with a dis-

tance perwalk of 12.5 ± 10.4 km, and a speed of 4.9 ± 0.8 km/h. No

correlations between amount of physical activity and WBC, PLT,

HGB were found. During 24 NSW, VO2, C, and speed decreased

linearly with walking time (r = 0.901; r = 0.906; r = 0.910,

respectively). From the 12th hour, OA and LL RPE increased until

the 24th hour, reaching very high Borg scale values. The results were

compared with another 24NSW occurred in May 2012.

Conclusion: A pancreatic cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy

can attend proficiently a home-based walking program despite the

therapy effects. With respect to the 2012 24 NSW, the subject

experienced a more dramatic speed decrease due to a correspondingly

steeper VO2 decrease in spite of a lower C. We suppose that an

extreme exercise, like 24 NSW, is featured by a too heavy intensity

for a cancer patient.

ReferencesCormie P et al (2014) Exercise as medicine in the management of

pancreatic cancer: a case study. Med Sci Sports Exerc

46(4):664–670

Gimenez P et al (2013) Changes in the energy cost of running during a

24-h treadmill exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 45(9):1807–1813

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