Research Articles (Sport, Recreation and Exercise Science)

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Brain resting state functional connectivity changes with aerobic exercise, and mindfulness: a narrative review
(KeAi Communications Co., 2025) Meeusen, Romain R.; Wing, David; Roelands, Bart
Purpose: Neuroimaging studies show that the functional connectivity of the brain changes with age. Resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) in the brain appears to decrease with aging in key networks associated with higher order thinking and effective emotional regulation. Interventions that potentially preserversFC in the brain include 1) physical activity and 2) contemplative practice commonly referred to as mindfulness. The present narrative review aims to summarize the literature concerning the effect of interventions involving exercise, mindful movement, and purely mindfulness-based training on rsFC. Methods: Search terms focused on identifying multi-day exercise, mindfulness, or mindful-movement interventions in non-clinical adult populations that included a control group and both pre- and post-assessment of brain rsFC. Results: Thirty studies were reviewed. Assessed methodological factors that potentially impact findings included subject sample size, scan time length, brain regions targeted for analyses, intervention length and intensity, population characteristics, and differences in sleep quantity/quality. Most studies reported changes in rsFC related to interventions with most observed changes found within the default mode, executive control and salience networks of the brain. However, the largest and most methodologically rigorous study found minimal associations between rsFC and either exercise or mindfulness. Conclusion: Given the inconsistent results found in this review, caution is warranted in the interpretation of changes in rsFC attributable to exercise and mindfulness. This review highlights key factors likely to contribute to differences in reported outcomes. Methodological consistency in fMRI acquisition, data preparation, and analytical approaches are crucial to improve reproducibility and allow for comparison and aggregation.
The determinants of success in One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 (T20) cricket matches: a systematic review and meta-analysis
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) November, Rucia Vern Clare; Ras, Jaron; Nyirenda, Clement N; Leach, Lloyd Llewellyn
Understanding the determinants of success in International One Day (ODI) and Twenty20 (T20) cricket is essential for optimising team and player performance. This review aimed to identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) associated with successful outcomes in elite international ODI and T20 matches. The review also examines performance analysis (PA) methods and trends across male and female cricketers. Comprehensive searches were conducted across PubMed, SPORTDiscus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital library, Ebscohost and Web of Science, covering literature published between 2000 and the present. Studies were included if they reported on KPIs or PA techniques contributing to the success in cricket. Following a rigorous screening process, nine studies met the inclusion criteria. This review revealed that most PA studies focused on distinguishing KPIs between winning and losing teams. Although video technology and statistical models are increasingly applied, relatively few investigations have incorporated contextual variables or gender-inclusive perspectives. Notably, only one study examined female cricketers, which limited the ability to draw strong conclusions on sex-specific performance differences. Furthermore, gaps remain regarding the consistent application of PA methods across formats. This review provides an overview of success determinants in international cricket and highlights the need for holistic, inclusive and ecologically valid approaches.
Promoting recreational opportunities and experiences of students with disabilities, at a university, in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Frontiers Media SA, 2025) Malema, Makhaya; Mululuma, Anzani; Mugwedi, Ndiafhi Percy
Introduction: The Limpopo Province is one of the nine provinces in South Africa and has only two universities that serve students with disabilities coming from historically disadvantaged communities. The two universities within the Limpopo Province are categorically classified as Historical Disadvantaged Institutions of higher learning. Therefore, students with disabilities deserve the right to recreational opportunities and experiences while continuing with their tertiary education. A literature review confirmed an existing gap that relates to promoting recreational opportunities and experiences of students with disabilities in universities. The objective of the research was to gain a deeper insight into how recreational opportunities and experiences can be enhanced for students with disabilities at a university in Limpopo Province. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative research approach using an exploratory design wherein seventeen students with disabilities were purposively selected and consented to participate in the study. The study used semi-structured interviews to collect data. Results and Discussion: The study findings revealed three main themes, including recreation participation, benefits of active recreation, and more opportunities for participation. This indicates that students with disabilities do not fully participate in recreational activities due to limited accessible recreational activities, conducive facilities, and other societal challenges. The conclusion drawn is that recreational opportunities and experiences of students with disabilities are not adequately promoted in the University. This recommends the need for more exploratory mechanisms to address issues facing students with disabilities holistically.
Medication use and fall risk among older adults in long-term care facilities: a cross-sectional analysis
(Academy of Science of South Africa, 2025) Ebrahim, Nabilah; Ras, Jaron; November, Rucia Vern Clare; Leach, Lloyd Llewellyn
Background: Falls among older adults are a major concern, frequently resulting in injuries and a decreased quality of life. While medication use is known to be a key contributor to fall risk, the specific medications have not been thoroughly investigated. This study is vital to investigate the relationship between specific medications and fall risk, aiming to strengthen safety measures and minimise falls among the elderly in care facilities. Objectives: To determine the relationship between medication use and the risk of falling among the elderly living in Long Term Care (LTC) facilities. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design to investigate males and females, aged 60 years and older, living in retirement facilities in the City of Cape Town. A convenient sampling method was utilised to recruit a total of 258 participants from multiple long-term care facilities in Cape Town, South Africa. The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used to determine associations between falls, fall risk factors, and various medications used. Results: Majority of participants were at low risk (81%; n=211), 15.1% (n=39) at moderate risk and 3.1% (n=8) at high risk for falling. Antidepressant [χ2 (1)=4.941; p=0.026; OR=2.083 (95% CI: 1.082, 4.012)] and anti-diabetic [χ2 (1)=4.097, p=0.043, OR=2.070 (95% CI: 1.013, 4.228)] medications were the only drugs significantly associated with falling. Conclusion: These findings highlight the significant association between antidepressant and anti-diabetic medications and an increased risk of falls. Effective medication management and fall prevention strategies are essential among this vulnerable population. Clinicians should carefully assess the risks of these medications when prescribing to older adults and consider alternative treatments when necessary.
Nutritional and physiological demands shape the gut microbiome of female world tour cyclists
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Meeusen, Romain; Ampe, Toon; Decroix, Lieselot
his cross-sectional study investigated whether elite female World Tour cyclists have a specific gut microbiome compared to non-athlete female controls, potentially resulting from the unique physiological and dietary demands of high-level endurance cycling. Fourteen female cyclists and thirteen matched controls provided fecal samples during a period of reduced training (off-season cycling). The samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) quantification. The results revealed significant differences in microbiome composition. The cyclists showed a higher abundance of Bacteroidota (72.7% vs. 15.3%) and a lower abundance of Firmicutes (22.1% vs. 62.5%) compared to the controls, along with reduced alpha-diversity (Shannon index, p < 0.05). Fiber-fermenting families such as Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae were depleted, consistent with a carbohydrate-focused and relatively low-fiber diet. Interestingly, fecal SCFA levels did not differ, suggesting functional adaptation of the microbiome. These findings indicate that the elite female cyclists may have developed a “performance-adapted” gut microbiome. However, due to the cross-sectional design, causality cannot be established, and the long-term health implications remain uncertain.
The prevalence of falls among older adults living in long-term care facilities in the City of Cape Town
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Ebrahim, Nabilah; Ras, Jaron; November, Rucia; Leach, Lloyd
Falls are a prevalent health concern with a multi-factorial origin and causing numerous complications for older adults, especially those in low- and middle-income countries, such as South Africa. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of falls among older adults living in different types of long-term care facilities in the City of Cape Town. A total of 258 males and females aged between 60 and 95 years were recruited. Data collection occurred from September 2021 to January 2022. Participants were categorized into low, moderate, or high fall risk using the fall-risk assessment tool. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and fall prevalence. The chi-squared test determined significant associations between facility type, marital status, and educational level, and their relationship to falling. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient assessed associations between fall occurrence and various risk factors. Findings indicated that the prevalence of falls was 32.6%. Falls were significantly associated with behaviors such as agitation or confusion, and other unmentioned risk factors. Participants living in facilities run by non-profit organizations, and who had a lower education level or were single or widowed, had a higher fall prevalence. The use of anti-depressant and anti-diabetic medications was significantly linked to increased fall risk. These findings can inform future research and the development of strategies to prevent falls among older adults, particularly in LTC facilities.
Perceptions and knowledge of health professionals about telerehabilitation in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2025) Malema, Maphoko Phindile; Frantz, Jose
Introduction: In the digital age, telerehabilitation emerges as a promising solution to healthcare disparities, offering healthcare services comparable to in-person care. Telerehabilitation utilizes information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure to deliver rehabilitation services remotely. It requires essential resources such as tablets, computers, and applications like Skype, Zoom, and WebEx for audio-video communication between patients and healthcare professionals. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions and knowledge of healthcare professionals about telerehabilitation in the Elias Motsoaledi Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Methods: Through an exploratory qualitative study design, semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were used. Twenty health professionals were purposefully recruited and interviewed as participants in this study. Participants were recruited and interviewed until data saturation was reached, meaning that categories appeared to guide the collected data without further modification. Healthcare professionals were included if they have a tertiary qualification. A minimum of two years of professional service within their respective profession. Participants were included if they were health professionals in direct contact with patients. Data were collected through one-on-one individual interviews with the 20 participants, using a semi-structured interview guide of open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the transcribed data. The approval to conduct the study was sought from the Biomedical Research Committee. Findings: The analysis revealed three main themes and eleven sub-themes that highlight the perceptions and knowledge of the participants. The participants were knowledgeable about telerehabilitation. Although telerehabilitation is not operationalized in public healthcare facilities, the participants shared their understanding and the benefits associated with it. Furthermore, the participants reported that there is a potential space to implement Telerehabilitation in public healthcare facilities. However, such implementations have serious financial implications, which can serve as a challenge for implementation in South Africa. Conclusion: Therefore, the current study concludes that telerehabilitation is a worthwhile investment in healthcare facilities. Interventions are required by the government to mitigate the implementation challenges of telerehabilitation in South African healthcare facilities. The current study recommends that strategies be required to roll out demo-prototypes of telerehabilitation programs.
Assessing the perceived awareness and knowledge of type 2 diabetes mellitus clients’ attitude towards telerehabilitation in Limpopo province of South Africa
(AOSIS (Pty) Ltd, 2025) Malema, Maphoko; Frantz, Jose
The concept of telerehabilitation is central to the present century, where artificial intelligence (ai) is prevalent. Telerehabilitation in africa is fast becoming a key instrument in the primary healthcare (phc) sector. Telerehabilitation can provide access to rehabilitation services for people who may live in an area where there are challenges such as mobility or transport issues, making attending rehabilitation sessions difficult or impossible. Telerehabilitation refers to the use of information technology (it) to aid, assess and provide information to physically or cognitively impaired individuals (schwamm et al. 2009). Telerehabilitation can provide patients with easy access to rehabilitation services (cottrell et al. 2017). Telerehabilitation offers and promotes services through information and communication technologies (ict) to patients in their homes and other environments (brennan, mawson & brownsell 2009). Telerehabilitation empowers and enables individuals to take control of the management of their medical needs and interventions by enabling personalised care, choice and personal control (brennan et al. 2009).
Current practices for mental fatigue quantification and induction in movement science: introducing the SPeCIFY guidelines
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2025) Meeusen Romain; Schampheleer Emilie; Habay Jelle
Mental fatigue (MF) is a complex phenomenon with significant implications for human performance, for which there are numerous studies investigating the effects of MF. Nevertheless, there is considerable variability in the approaches used to induce and quantify MF, making it hard to compare findings across studies and draw well-supported conclusions. This review addresses the methodological variability in the induction and quantification methods of MF in movement science in the following ways: on the one hand, by providing an overview of task design strategies to induce MF, emphasizing the importance of tailoring task duration, difficulty, and nature to individual participants and specific research contexts; on the other hand, by providing an overview of current methods used to quantify MF, including behavioural, subjective, and physiological measures, and highlighting the strengths and limitations of each. Finally, this review proposes a best-practice framework for MF research, incorporating multi-method approaches for the induction and quantification of MF and introducing the Settings, Protocol establishments, Confounders, Individuals, Framework, and Yield (SPeCIFY) reporting guidelines that aim at improving consistency and transparency in future MF studies.
Tackling the tackle 1: A descriptive analysis of 14,679 tackles and risk factors for high tackles in a community-level male amateur rugby union competition during a lowered tackle height law variation trial
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024) van Tonder, Riaan; Kraak, Wilbur
Objectives: In rugby union (rugby), the tackle is the most frequent cause of concussion and thus a target for intervention to reduce concussion incidence. The aim of this study is to describe tackle characteristics and factors associated with illegal high tackles in amateur community-level rugby during a lowered (armpit level) tackle height law variation trial. Design: Prospective observational cohort study. Methods: Video surveillance of a single season, four-league competition with coding of video data according to a predefined coding framework. Descriptive statistics of tackle detail and logistic regression was performed to analyse factors associated with high tackles. Results: One hundred and eight matches with 14,679 tackles and a mean of 137 (± 30) tackles per match were analysed. High tackles (above armpit level) had significantly greater odds of occurring in the lower (2nd–4th) leagues (OR: 1.95; 95 % CI: 1.6–2.4; p < 0.001), front-on tackles (OR: 1.61; 95 % CI: 1.3–2.0; p < 0.001), arm tackles (OR: 1.65; 95 % CI: 1.3–2.1; p < 0.001), bent-at-waist ball carrier (OR: 1.93; 95 % CI: 1.6–2.4; p < 0.001), falling/diving ball carrier (OR: 2.21; 95 % CI: 1.6–3.1; p < 0.001), and an upright tackler (OR: 3.38; 95 % CI: 2.7–4.2; p < 0.001). A falling/diving tackler had significantly lower odds of being associated with a high tackle (OR: 0.44; 95 % CI: 0.3–0.6; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Overall mean tackles per match were similar to those of senior amateur and elite rugby. League, tackle type, tackle aspect, and player body positions were associated with high tackles. These findings reiterate the need for ongoing efforts to identify and implement mitigating strategies to reduce tackle-related injury risk. © 2023 The Author(s)
Musculoskeletal discomfort and musculoskeletal injuries in firefighters of the city of Cape Town fire and rescue service
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2024) Ras, Jaron; Pellei, Isabella; Niehaus, Georg
Objective: The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal injuries is reported to be noticeably high amongst firefighters, which augments the dangers of the job and the difficulties that firefighters must face daily. Therefore, this study aimed to firstly determine the prevalence and characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) and musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and, secondly, to determine the relationship between MSD and MSIs in firefighters. Methods: Using random systematic sampling, 309 firefighters from the City of Cape Town Fire and rescue service were recruited to participate. A researcher-generated questionnaire was used to retrieve data on musculoskeletal injuries and musculoskeletal discomfort. Data was analysed using the T-tests, Cochran-Armitage trend test, Jonckheere-Terpstra test, and Binary logistic regression. A p-value of less than 0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance. Results: Male (p = 0.036) and older firefighters (p<0.001) with more years of experience (p = 0.002) were most likely to report a musculoskeletal injury. Falls, jumps, slips, and trips were the most common injuries (39.7%), which most often occurred on the fireground (41.1%).
Tackling the tackle 2: Evaluation of referee and player behavioural change as measures of implementation of a law variation in community-level male amateur rugby union
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024) van Tonder, Riaan; Kraak, Wilbur
Objectives: To evaluate player and referee behaviour during a lower tackle height law variation trial in community rugby union (‘rugby’). Design: Prospective observational cohort study. Methods: In a law variation trial in male amateur community rugby, coded match video surveillance data were analysed. Referee (sanctioning rate) and player (tackler body position) behaviour changes over one season (under the lowered, armpit-level maximum legal tackle height condition) were analysed in three approximately equal periods of the season. Secondarily, an independent professional referee reviewed illegal high tackle sanctioning data. Results: Overall, 108 matches with 14,780 tackles were filmed and coded. Sanctioned illegal high tackle propensity was significantly higher in the mid-season (41 sanctioned high tackles/1000 tackle events; 95 % CI: 35–47), compared with first and last periods. Upright tacklers in tackles decreased significantly in the final vs. middle period of the season (rate ratio: 0.69; 95 % CI: 0.54–0.88; p < 0.01). Of all the coder-determined high tackles also assessed as high under the new law by the independent referee, 51 % were sanctioned by the on-field referee. Conclusions: Positive player and referee behavioural changes were observed during a lowered legal tackle height law variation in this community rugby setting. Increased mid-phase high tackle sanctioning by referees was followed by fewer tackles with upright tacklers in the subsequent (last) phase of the season. Encouraging positive behaviour changes of this nature, particularly if sustained (beyond trial study periods), may contribute to overall injury risk reduction, and hold considerable importance to inform future injury prevention strategies in rugby.
Results from South Africa’s 2022 healthy active kids’ report card on physical activity, body composition proxies, and nutritional status in children and adolescents
(Human Kinetics Publishers Inc., 2024) Nyawose, Zingisa Z.; Bassett, Susan; Young, Marie
Physical activity (PA) and nutrition in children have an impact on overall physical and mental well-being, cognitive, and social development. This study aims to report on the best current available evidence on PA, body composition proxies, and nutritional status of South African children and adolescents, based on the published findings between 2018 and 2022, which comprise the 2022 Healthy Active Kids South Africa Report Card. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of online databases, along with hand searching and a gray literature search, was conducted based on PA, body composition proxies, and nutrition indicators defined, in part, by the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance. Results: Compared with the 2018 report card, there was an improvement in the majority of PA indicators which include overall PA (B–), active transportation (B–), physical fitness (B–), and government policy and programs (C). Body composition proxies and most of the nutrition indicators remained unchanged. The indicators that regressed from 2018 to 2022 included community and environmental influences (D), as well as participation in organized sport (D–). Conclusions: Despite the apparent improvement in overall PA levels in children and adolescents, there is a lack of tangible evidence of actual implementation of policies and programs. There was also a lack of nationally representative data for most indicators. Overall, there is a need to identify intersectoral, equitable approaches for promoting PA and healthy eating in South African children and adolescents and ongoing monitoring and surveillance.
Cardiorespiratory fitness and sleep, but not physical activity, are associated with functional connectivity in older adults
(Springer Nature, 2024) Wing, David; Meeusen, Romain; Roelands, Bart
Aging results in changes in resting state functional connectivity within key networks associated with cognition. Cardiovascular function, physical activity, sleep, and body composition may influence these age-related changes in the brain. Better understanding these associations may help clarify mechanisms related to brain aging and guide interventional strategies to reduce these changes.
Rating of perceived exertion associated with acute symptoms in athletes with recent sars-cov-2 infection: athletes with acute respiratory infection (aware) vi study
(National Athletic Trainers' Association Inc., 2024) Kaulback, Kelly; Jordaan, Esme; Schwellnus, Martin
Context: SARS-CoV-2 infection can affect the exercise response in athletes. Factors associated with the exercise response have not been reported. Objective: To (1) describe heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) responses to exercise in athletes with a recent SARS-CoV-2 infection and (2) identify factors affecting exercise responses. Design: Cross-sectional, experimental study. Patients or Other Participants: Male and female athletes (age ¼ 24.2 6 6.3 years) with a recent (,28 days) SARS-CoV-2 infection (n ¼ 72). Setting: A COVID-19 Recovery Clinic for athletes. Main Outcome Measure(s): Heart rate, SBP, and RPE were measured during submaximal exercise (modified Bruce protocol) at 10 to 28 days after SARS-CoV-2 symptom onset. Selected factors (demographics, sport, comorbidities, preinfection training variables, and symptoms during the acute phase of the infection) affecting the exercise response were analyzed using random coefficient (linear mixed) models. Results: Heart rate, SBP, and RPE increased progressively from rest to stage 5 of the exercise test (P ¼ .0001). At stage 5 (10.1 metabolic equivalents), a higher HR and a higher SBP during exercise were associated with younger age (P ¼ .0007) and increased body mass index (BMI; P ¼ .009), respectively. Higher RPE during exercise was significantly associated with a greater number of whole-body (P ¼ .006) and total number (P ¼ .004) of symptoms during the acute phase of infection. Conclusions: A greater number of symptoms during the acute infection was associated with a higher RPE during exercise in athletes at 10 to 28 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection. We recommend measuring RPE during the first exercise challenge after infection, as this may indicate disease severity and be valuable for tracking progress, recovery, and return to sport. Ó by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Inc.
Insights into coaching effectiveness: Perspectives from coaches and players in South African Women's Rugby
(SAGE Publications Inc., 2024) Kraak, Wilbur; Solomons, Jocelyn; Bekker, Sheree; Groom, Ryan
Sports coaching involves navigating ambiguity and uncertainty in stakeholders’ perspectives and managing a dynamic micro-political environment. This study explores the relationship between coaching efficacy and effectiveness in South African Women's Rugby. It examines how a coach's belief in their ability to influence athlete learning and performance (coaching efficacy) correlates with the actual impact on athletes (coaching effectiveness). By aligning coaches’ perceived competence with tangible athlete outcomes, the study provides insights into factors influencing coaching practices and athlete development. The study involved 28 women players (mean age: 24.8 ± 4.0 years) and 8 coaches (mean age: 41 ± 3.8 years) who participated in semi-structured online interviews. The interview script, derived from the Coaching Effectiveness Survey (CES) tool, was analysed using Braun and Clarke's 6-step process of thematic content analysis. Under the four efficacy dimensions, sub-themes emerged as follow: 1) motivation (climate created by the coach and a motivational climate experienced by the players), 2) technique (coaching physical, technical, and tactical aspects of rugby), 3) game strategy (guiding players to successful outcomes), and 4) character-building efficacy (cultivating a positive environment for sportswomanship and holistic development). The findings incorporate feedback from players and coaches, highlighting firsthand experiences of coaching effectiveness. This approach enables experts to identify effective coaching strategies and those needing refinement within Women's Rugby. The study's findings promise to inform future coach development frameworks and foster a comprehensive understanding of coaching effectiveness in the dynamic landscape of Women's Rugby worldwide.
Exploring the quality of life and academic success of students at a university in the Western Cape
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2025) Matlapeng, Tshiamo; Miya, Faeez Aref; Mfundisi, Tandolwethu; Malema, Makhaya; Moeketse, Kelello
Background: This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of first-year students adapting to university life. University life encompasses various dimensions impacting individuals' health and wellness. Wellness comprises seven components, namely, physical, mental, spiritual, occupational, emotional, social, and environmental wellness. The present study rests on the premise that students may struggle, which will not only affect their quality of life but rather have knock-on effects and implications on their academic performance. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore and describe students' perceived quality of life and its influence on their academic success at a university in the Western Cape. Methods: An exploratory, descriptive qualitative study was conducted at the University of the Western Cape. The study involved twelve participants who were first-year students in the Community and Health Science faculty. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. Interviews were transcribed manually and through the use of AI software. Themes were analyzed using the Braun and Clarke framework. Results: The findings of the study revealed that students use various coping mechanisms, which can be categorized into sports participation, social support, and academic planning. These strategies help manage the transition from high school to university and promote a better quality of life. Coping strategies are adopted to manage the challenges during their academic journey. These challenges may be increased workload, how students manage their schedules, and their ability to be independent. These factors play a critical role in academic success, which is further determined by the academic process needs, the institutional support provided through available programs, and the access of students to basic needs or lack thereof.
Association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal health in firefighters
(Frontiers Media SA, 2023) Ras, Jaron; Soteriades, Elpidoforos Soterakis; Smith, Denise Louise
Introduction: Firefighters are often placed in situations that require high levels of physical exertion, leading to significant strain on firefighters’ musculoskeletal system, predisposing them to musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and/or musculoskeletal injury (MSI). Physical fitness programs are often recommended and justified, in part, to prevent injuries. The aim of this study was to determine the association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal health (MSH) in firefighters. Methods: A total of 308 full-time firefighters took part in the study conducted in Cape Town, South Africa. Physical fitness tests encompassed a non-exercise estimation for cardiorespiratory fitness, grip and leg strength for upper and lower body strength, push-ups and sit-ups for muscular endurance, and sit-and-reach for flexibility. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire were used to determine MSIs and MSD, respectively. A p-value <0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results: Every one-unit increase in AbVO2max, push-ups, sit-ups, and sit-and-reach decreased the odds of firefighters reporting MSIs by 5% (p = 0.005), 3% (p = 0.017), 3% (p = 0.006), and 3% (p = 0.034), respectively. Every one repetition increase in push-up capacity increased the odds of firefighters reporting neck, elbow and forearm, wrist and hand, and thigh discomfort by 3% (p = 0.039), 4% (p = 0.031), 5% (p = 0.002), and 5%` (p = 0.007), respectively.
Backyard running: Pushing the boundaries of human performance
(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2024) Meeusen Romain; De Pauw, Kevin; Ampe T.; Arauz, Y. L. Arenales
Ultrarunning is gaining in popularity but no information is available on the physiological and psychological responses during backyard ultrarunning events. The aim of this study was to determine changes in cognitive function, markers of physiological resilience, and running performance during a backyard-running event. Twelve male ultrarunners (38 ± 8 years old, BMI: 23.5 ± 1.6 kg/m2, and VO2max: 60.8 ± 4.7 mL/min/kg) were monitored before, during, and after the event. Cognitive performance was determined using a cognitive test battery before, during, and after the event. During the event, the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate concentration, and heart rate (HR) were assessed. Physical performance was investigated using the total number of completed laps and running speed per lap. Athletes completed 34 ± 17 laps equaling 227.8 ± 113.9 km with average speeds starting at 9.0 km/h and slowing down to 7.5 km/h at the end of the event. Physiological resilience (estimated using HR/speed) varied between athletes, with significantly lower values in the more proficient backyard runners at the end of the event (p < 0.05). HR and lactate levels remained constant, whereas a progressive increase in RPE was noticed (p ≤ 0.001). A significantly worsened reaction time was observed for several cognitive tasks after the event compared to baseline measures (p ≤ 0.05). These observations show that physiological resilience differs depending on the level of endurance performance of the athletes. Furthermore, the backyard ultrarunning event negatively impacted psychomotor speed. Therefore, the results suggest that implementing strategies that enhance physiological resilience and/or psychomotor speed could potentially have a positive effect on performance in ultraendurance activities
Knowledge and behaviours regarding physical activity of firefighters in the City of Cape Town fire and rescue service – a cross-sectional study
(Ubiquity Press, 2024) Ras, Jaron; Botha, Jana; Burger, Yuwin; Ras, Warren; Leach, Lloyd
Firefighters have a higher prevalence of chronic diseases due to the relationship between a lack of knowledge and poor behaviours regarding physical activity (PA). The aim of the study was to determine the knowledge and behaviours regarding physical activity of firefighters in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service, as well as address the current dearth of literature on physical activity to decrease firefighters’ risk of chronic diseases. This cross-sectional study recruited 136 firefighters in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service. A researcher-generated self-administered questionnaire on the knowledge and behaviours regarding physical activity was completed online using Google Forms. Statistical significance was set at a p-value less than 0.05. The results showed that 53% of firefighters had a poor knowledge of physical activity, and 47% had a good knowledge of physical activity, while 80% reported poor behaviours toward physical activity and 20% had good behaviours toward physical activity. There was a significant difference between firefighters’ knowledge of physical activity and their physical activity behaviour (p < 0.05), particularly related to marital status, age, and years of experience (p < 0.05). A safe environment was significantly associated with recreational PA (p < 0.05) and sleep behaviour was significantly associated with overall PA behaviour (p < 0.001).

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