Global Journal of Sport and Exercise Science (GJSES)
Free publication – The Global Journal of Sport and Exercise Science (GJSES) is a peer-reviewed open-access journal dedicated to publishing high-quality research in various fields of sports science and physical education. The journal covers a wide range of disciplines, including exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, teaching methods, measurement and evaluation, sports management and organization, sports medicine, sports psychology, anatomy, and other related fields. GJSES serves as a platform for researchers, scholars, and professionals to share their latest findings and contribute to the advancement of sports and exercise science worldwide.
The Global Journal of Sport and Exercise Science (GJSES)
Copyright & Licensing Policy: Open Access Policy: This journal follows a fully Open Access model, which means all published research articles are freely available to readers without any subscription or access fees. Anyone can read, download, copy, distribute, print, and cite the published work without restrictions, as long as they comply with the journal’s licensing terms. Copyright & License: All articles published in this journal are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0). This license allows unrestricted reuse and distribution, provided that proper credit is given to the original author and source. Authors retain full copyright ownership of their work while granting the journal the right to publish it for the first time under this license. Author Responsibilities: Authors must agree to the journal’s licensing terms before publication. Submitted manuscripts must be original and not published or under consideration elsewhere during the review process. Any reuse of published content by third parties must comply with the CC BY 4.0 license, ensuring no additional restrictions are imposed on reuse. Publication Fees (free to publish): This journal (free to publish) does not charge any fees for access to published research, supporting the principle of free and open scientific knowledge for all.
Longitudinal clustering in kinesiology 1: the bare essentials of the kml and kml3d packages in R
Longitudinal designs are common in the field of kinesiology, where there can often be high variability due to varying response patterns between participants. In studies where outcome changes are seen, there may be hidden groups of non-responders. Alternatively, in studies where no overall changes are seen, there may be hidden groups of responders. Longitudinal clustering is a method that is used to find unique trajectories in longitudinal designs. Cluster trajectories are a result of data quality, and clustering is not meant to be hypothesis driven. However, It may complement hypothesis-driven methods to better understand overall and nuanced change patterns. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how to analyze a synthetic dataset using the kml and kml3d packages in R. It is meant to be relatively non-technical, easy to use, and interpret for inexperienced coders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Keston Lindsay (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of stable and unstable loads on post-activation performance enhancement in the countermovement jump
This study aimed to investigate the practicality of unstable loads and their effect on post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE), observed through force time kinematic variables in the countermovement jump (CMJ). Thirty-four collegiate male athletes participated in a randomized crossover experiment. Athletes were randomly assigned to first complete either the 20.4 kg barbell stable (ST) or 20.4 kg water bag unstable (US) load protocol After a 20-minute rest period, the subjects completed the other protocol. Protocols consisted of a baseline jump, two sets of three consecutive jumps with the load, then a second jump to retest. Force plate data were sampled at 1,000 Hz and predetermined landmarks of the force time curve were utilized to calculate key performance indicators. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA with condition (ST, US) and time (pre, post) as independent variables was used to assess outcome variables. Statistical significance was set at p < .05. No significant interaction or condition effects were present in findings (p > .05). Peak and average braking force (p = .001; p < .001 respectively), braking impulse (p < .001), takeoff velocity (p = .005), jump height (p = .006), center of mass (COM) depth (p = .006), and rate of force development (RFD) (p = .009) were all significantly different between the first and second jump for both ST and US conditions. The results of this study suggest that either stable or unstable loads may produce a PAPE effect, thus increasing the number of modalities available to achieve this outcome.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anthony J Campbell MS, Charlie R Ottinger PhD, Lauren M Biscardi PhD (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Acute Effects of a Single Session of Resistance Training on Functional and Mechanical Properties of Leg Muscles of Article
The aim of this study was to determine the acute effects of a single session of resistance training on the functional and mechanical properties of leg muscles in recreationally active men. Eighteen subjects, with a mean age of 31 ± 4 years, with at least six months of continuous recreational activity and a frequency of 2–3 physical activities per week, participated in the study. All subjects performed a standardized squat session with external load, while four tests were used to assess neuromuscular performance: Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Squat Jump (SJ), Wall-sit test and Repeated Jump Test (RJT). The results showed a statistically significant decrease in performance in all tests after training (CMJ: -9.2%, SJ: -7.2%, Wall-sit: -18.1%, RJT: -10.4%; p < 0.001), indicating pronounced acute neuromuscular fatigue. The largest decreases were registered in isometric and reactive strength tests, while the decrease in explosive strength was also significant. The data obtained confirm that even a single session of resistance training can induce measurable, temporary changes in functional capacity of leg muscles, emphasizing the importance of adequate rest and training intensity planning. Future research could examine different training protocols, populations of different age groups, and recovery strategies to further investigate acute neuromuscular responses and optimize training planning in recreational and competitive athletes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Milan Trifkovic, Dejan Gojkovic, Milomir Trivun (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Design and Development of a Biomechanical Sports Device for Rehabilitation of Spinal Disorders
Spinal disorders, such as disc herniation and sciatica, significantly affect mobility and quality of life. This study presents the design, development, and clinical evaluation of a novel biomechanical sports device for spinal rehabilitation. The device integrates principles of biomechanics, bioelectrics, and bioresonance, allowing the operator to control all therapy stages precisely. The system combines pneumatic jacks, linear bearings, IR infrared irradiation, electro-puncture, suction, and vibration mechanisms to provide targeted spinal support, reduce pain, improve blood circulation, and strengthen muscles around the injured vertebrae. Pilot tests conducted on 400 patients demonstrated recovery improvement within 5–10 sessions, with subsequent maintenance sessions ensuring long-term benefits. The proposed device offers a safe, effective, and scalable solution for spinal rehabilitation applicable in clinical, sports therapy, and general fitness settings. Keywords: Biomechanical Device; Spinal Rehabilitation; Musculoskeletal Biomechanics; Sports Therapy; Mechanical Design
Copyright (c) 2026 Masoud Khadem Pir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Active vs Passive Cool-Down on Ultra-Early Post-Exercise Haemodynamics in Healthy Young Men: A Preliminary Study
Objectives: This study investigated ultra-early effects of active cool-down (AC) and passive cool-down (PC) on post-exercise haemodynamics and cardiorespiratory responses in healthy young men, to inform strategies to reduce exercise-induced syncope. Methods: Seven healthy, non-athletic male students performed an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX) on a cycle ergometer, followed immediately by either AC (pedalling at 20 W) or PC (sitting without pedalling). Respiratory gas exchange was recorded breath-by-breath and averaged every 3 seconds. Heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (VO₂), carbon dioxide output (VCO₂), and ventilation (VE) were measured at peak exercise and at 0, 3, and 6 seconds after the start of the cool-down. For descriptive purposes, responses up to 15 seconds were also plotted. Results: HR decreased significantly more during the first 3 seconds of recovery in PC than in AC (p = 0.03, d = 0.62). No significant differences in HR changes were observed between 3 and 6 seconds after cool-down initiation (p = 0.47). VO₂, VCO₂, and VE did not differ significantly between AC and PC at any of the measured time points (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest that PC immediately after exercise induces a more abrupt early decline in HR than AC, potentially delaying ultra-early haemodynamic stabilisation during a time window in which exercise-induced syncope may occur. Incorporating light active recovery may help support safer haemodynamic recovery following exercise. Given the small sample size, these results should be confirmed in larger studies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Atsuya Otsuka, Yujiro Masu, Junya Komagata , Yuta Sakamoto , Yuki Komatsu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The impact of psychological skill training on selected psychological attributes on female football players
Developing effective psychological skill training program for Players is a strategy for improving self -confidence, Team cohesion, motivation and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of psychological skill training on self-confidence, team cohesion, Motivation, anxiety variables. The study employed Experimental research design. 26 female football players of Dilla kenema with experimental and control group and it has divided randomly into 2 equal groups. Both the experimental group n =13 and control group n = 13. experimental group only participated in additional 8 week psychological skill training interventions which comprised as goal setting, self-talk, pep talk, imagery, progressive relaxation techniques, arousal regulation, team building strategies and relaxation response techniques were given through 3 phases which comprise educational, acquisitions and practical phases by sport psychologist. Both groups had taken pre and post-testing and all the subjects participated to response standard questionnaires: self-confidence was measured using trait sport confidence inventory, team cohesion was measured using group environment questioners, motivation were measured using sport motivation scale test and anxiety were measured using state trait anxiety inventory test .The data collected from the study subject was analyzed using SPSS version 20 software by paired t-test with level of significant 0.05. The results showed PST significantly improved the stated variables self-confidence, team cohesion, motivations and anxiety in experimental group at (p<0.05). Furthermore, no more significant differences were found in all of the variables in control group (p>0.05).
Psychological skill training, self-confidence, team-cohesion, motivation and anxiety
Copyright (c) 2026 assaye Gashaw Tilahun, Lamesigen Frew (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing Level of Physical Activity Among University Students in Rwanda and the Associated Factors
Background: Physical activity (PA) is vital for physical and mental health, yet its prevalence among university students in low- and middle-income countries, including Rwanda, remains underexplored. This study assessed PA levels and associated socio-demographic and institutional factors among university students in Rwanda. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF) was distributed online to students enrolled in Rwandan universities. Descriptive statistics summarized PA levels, and multivariate logistic regression identified associated factors. Results: Among 418 participants, 58.1% met criteria for health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA), 16.5% had minimal activity, and 25.4% were inactive. Male students were significantly more likely to engage in HEPA than females (OR = 2.57, p = 0.001), and students from public universities had higher odds of meeting HEPA thresholds than those in private institutions (OR = 2.30, p = 0.003). Key motivators included stress relief, improved fitness, and enjoyment, while barriers included lack of time, limited access to facilities, low motivation, and insufficient awareness. Open-ended responses emphasized the need for institutional support, peer encouragement, and accessible fitness spaces, especially for female students. Conclusion: Although most students engage in PA, a substantial proportion remains inactive. Gender and university type significantly influence PA levels. To promote equitable engagement, universities should implement gender-sensitive programs, invest in infrastructure, and raise awareness of PA benefits. Future research should explore cultural and psychosocial drivers to inform targeted interventions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jean Bertrand A. Hakizimana, Aime P. Hakizimana, Joselyne Nzisabira, Sam Kamali, Rex Wong (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The relationship of the isometric and dynamic rate of force development with sprinting ability
Purpose: The rate of force development (RFD) is a commonly used indicator of explosive strength. While its relationship with various strength test parameters has been widely studied, its association with sprint performance remains less explored. This study investigated different RFD metrics from countermovement jump (CMJ) and isometric deadlift tests and their correlation with sprint performance. Methods: Fifteen physically active male university students participated (age: 24.3±2.0 years, height: 181.8±5.4 cm, mass: 77.3±6.0 kg). Assessments included three CMJs, two isometric deadlift tests on a force plate, and two 30m sprints. Peak, mean RFD, and early-phase RFD values were analyzed, and Spearman’s rank-correlation was used to assess their relationship with sprint performance. Results: CMJ produced significantly higher RFD values than the isometric deadlift test, with peak RFD averaging 15349 ± 9866 N/s. No interpretable significant correlation was found between any RFD metrics and sprint performance. In contrast, relative isometric maximum strength (r=0.55; p=0.033) and jump height (r=0.82; p<0.001) showed significant correlations with sprint performance. Conclusion: These findings suggest that RFD metrics from CMJ and isometric deadlift tests may not be suitable indicators of sprinting ability and likely reflect different physical attributes. Maximal isometric strength and jump performance appear to be more reliable predictors of sprint capability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Erik Kálmán Szabó, Leonidas Petridis, Rafael Krätschmer, Fabian Stöcker (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Personality Traits and their Relationship to Elite Rugby League Performance
This study examined the relationship between personality traits and the sport of rugby league at the elite level. Literature reviewed during the course of this study indicated that there is a strong association between personality characteristics and success in sport. This in turn supported the concept of utilizing personality traits as a predictor of elite rugby league performance. The personality traits of a group of 67 past and present elite Australian rugby league players were assessed utilizing two personality tests, the CPI 260 and the PVSIII-R test of mental hardiness. The findings from this study demonstrated that there is a relationship between certain personality traits and elite rugby league performance. The elite players scored significantly higher in five of the 29 scales (traits) of the CPI 260. The results of this study support the Necessity Traits theory developed from this study as a robust model for predicting elite RL performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 David O'Keeffe, Dr. Rudolph Alleyne, Mr. Durae Padmore (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Behind the spotlight, “The marital struggles of Athletes”
Professional athletes often stand as symbols of strength, resilience, and achievement. Their lives, seemingly glamorous and enviable, are often romanticized by fans and the media. However, behind their public personas lies a stark contrast a realm of emotional turmoil, particularly in their marital and family lives. This paper explores the complex and often painful marital struggles faced by athletes, both in India and across the globe. Drawing upon real-life cases of notable sports personalities such as Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan, Sania Mirza, and others, this research unpacks the emotional, psychological, and financial impact of fame on intimate relationships. It also highlights the need for systemic support and responsible media coverage to humanize the pressures these individuals endure. Keywords: - Athlete marriages, marital struggles, media scrutiny, mental health in sports, family breakdown
Athlete marriages, marital struggles, media scrutiny, mental health in sports, family breakdown
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Prithvi Raj Raj (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Role of Minimalist Footwear on Stability, Change of Direction, and Force Production: A Randomized Crossover Trial
The purpose of the present study was to examine the acute effects of minimalist footwear (MFW) on participants’ ability to stabilize, change direction, and produce force. A randomized crossover design was used. Eighteen subjects participated. Participants tested in MFW and traditional running shoes (RS) and were randomly assigned an order. The protocol included a warm-up, limits of stability assessment, pro-agility test, modified t-test, countermovement, and isometric mid-thigh pull. No significant differences were found (p<0.05), and the effect sizes were trivial to small. For the limits of stability assessment, time (ES = 0.350) and backward (ES = 0.229) had small effect sizes with MFW performing better and right had a small effect size (ES = 0.287) with RS performing better. Every other variable for the limits of stability had a trivial effect size. For the pro-agility assessment there was a small effect size (ES = 0.429) with MFW performing better. For the modified t-test assessment there was a small effect size (ES = 0.411) with MFW performing better. For the countermovement jump, every variable had a trivial effect size. For the isometric mid-thigh pull, peak force (ES = 0.216), time to peak force (ES = 0.316), and rate of force development 0 – 50 ms (ES = 0.246) had a small effect size. Rate of force development 0 – 100 ms had a trivial effect size with MFW performing better. In conclusion, this indicates that MFW may not acutely influence stability and may positively influence change of direction and force production.
Copyright (c) 2025 Logan Allen, Justin Kilian (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fan Perception and administrative influence: evaluating the management of the female African cup of nations and its impact on team morale and performance
This study investigated the relationship between fans’ perceptions of tournament management and its perceived effects on team morale and competitive performance in the Female African Cup of Nations (FACON). With increasing attention on the development of women’s football in Africa, the research sought to understand how administrative practices influence not only team outcomes but also fan engagement and psychological support for athletes during continental tournaments. A descriptive survey research design was employed to gather data from 320 respondents, including sports enthusiasts, team officials, and sport administrators across five African countries. A validated structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and analysis was carried out using both descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and grand mean, as well as inferential statistics including the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) to test the stated hypotheses. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between fans’ perception of tournament management and their support for participating teams. It was also established that poor administrative logistics, inadequate planning, and lack of transparent management negatively impacted team morale and overall competitive performance. Respondents strongly agreed that when tournaments are well-managed, athletes are more motivated, focused, and confident in their performance. The study concludes that quality tournament management is crucial for the psychological readiness and competitive edge of national female teams in Africa. Based on these findings, it is recommended that tournament organizers adopt athlete-centered and transparent administrative strategies, enhance planning and logistics to reduce distractions, and actively engage fans in feedback processes to strengthen their loyalty and support.
Copyright (c) 2025 Udeme Bassey (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
NCAA DI Student-Athletes' Understanding of and Attitudes Toward Mental Performance Services
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division (DI) student-athletes have high physical and psychological demands related to their sport. To address these demands, the NCAA has focused on disseminating information and advocating for more resources to help student-athletes improve their psychological well-being. However, most, if not all the information provided by the NCAA has focused on mental health resources, with little discussion about mental performance services. In fact, in the 2023 Transformational Committee report did not list mental performance services as a key resource for student-athletes, meaning that student-athletes likely have limited knowledge about the services or access to a mental performance consultant (MPC) that could help them with various performance challenges. Furthermore, few, if any qualitative studies examine student-athletes to understand what they know and how they feel about these services. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to learn about NCAA DI student-athletes' understanding of and attitudes toward mental performance services. Semi-structured one-one-one interviews were conducted with nine NCAA DI student-athletes (6 females, 3 males). Thematic analysis procedures were followed, and two themes were constructed: (a) knowledge of services and characteristics desired of professionals, and (b) a general unawareness of mental performance services. In response to these results and recent NCAA statements, it is suggested that the NCAA consider disseminating more resources and information about mental performance services and advocate for hiring a professional on a full-time, part-time, or contracted basis to assist in meeting student-athlete mental performance needs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Morgan Eckenrod, Allison Rudisill (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Integration of motor-mindedness in coaching strategies and its impact on youth athletic performance in Rivers state, Nigeria
This study examined the integration of motor-mindedness in coaching strategies and its impact on youth athletic performance in Rivers State, Nigeria. The was guided by five research questions and five hypotheses. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. Data were collected from a sample of 200 respondents drawn from consisting of 100 coaches and 100 athletes through a structured questionnaire. The study aimed to determine the level of awareness of motor-mindedness among coaches, the extent of its application, the challenges faced in its implementation, and its impact on athlete performance. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including Mean, Standard deviation, Chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation. The results revealed a high level of awareness of motor-mindedness principles among coaches (χ² = 23.78, p = 0.001), with moderate to high levels of application across various motor-psychological techniques. However, several challenges were identified, particularly among less experienced coaches, including inadequate training and institutional support (F = 4.67, p = 0.013). Importantly, athletes coached using motor-mindedness strategies performed significantly better than those trained with conventional methods (t = 3.21, p = 0.002). A strong positive correlation was also found between the use of motor-mindedness strategies and athlete performance (r = 0.61, p < 0.01). The study concludes that while coaches are increasingly aware of and applying motor-mindedness principles, structural and educational barriers persist. It recommends the integration of motor-mindedness into coach education programs and policy frameworks to promote more effective and psychologically grounded coaching practices in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel Chinonso Ochor (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Correlation between Net Impulse and Phases of Linear Sprint Performance in University American Football Players
Impulse has been proposed as a reliable performance measure when assessing force generating capacity, during a given time frame, and in recent literature has been investigated to its degree of relationship with sprint performance. This study investigated the correlation between early epochs of net impulse from isometric actions and selected phases of linear sprint performance. A within subject design was employed to assess the correlation between linear sprint performance and epochs of net impulse in 29 university American Football athletes (mean±SD: age = 20.10±1.53 years; height = 181.69±5.63cm; weight = 95.92±22.81kg). Net impulse was measured over epochs of 0-100, 0-150, and 0-200 milliseconds (Newtons per second) via an isometric mid-thigh pull protocol while linear speed was assessed using linear sprint testing (10 and 36.58 metres). Pearson’s r correlation coefficient was used to evaluate correlations between assessed variables and effect size. The analysis demonstrated trivial to small correlations (r=-0.06 to 0.18) between early epochs of net impulse and linear sprint performance. The 10-metre linear sprint performance demonstrated small correlations at 0-150 milliseconds (r=0.18) while the remaining variables revealed trivial correlations. The effect size indicated trivial to small correlations between the assessed variables. Although no significant correlation was found between isometric mid-thigh pull metrics and linear sprint performance these findings provide meaningful insight into the complexity of sprinting mechanics, in the assessed population. If net impulse does not strongly correlate with sprint performance, it may indicate the need to reassess the emphasis placed on isometric strength assessments in sprint profiling.
Force-time Characteristics, Acceleration, Team Sport, Physical Profiling
Copyright (c) 2025 Jack Davies, Max Cooper, Dr Jonathan Hughes, Dr Craig Barden (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring coaches’ competence as a predictor of athletes’ sports achievement in south-south Nigeria
This study explores the predictive relationship between coaches’ competence and athletes’ sports achievement in South-South Nigeria, with particular attention to gender and type of sports involved in by the athletes. The study adapted the Feltz et al.’s (1999) coaching competence model, and examined how specific dimensions of coaching competence such as motivation, game strategy, technique, and character building relate to athletes’ sports performance outcomes. A correlational research design was adopted, involving 1,402 athletes selected from a population of 4,669 through multistage sampling from sports commissions and universities across six states in the South-South region of Nigeria. Data were collected using a validated instrument, the Coaches' Competence and Athletes’ Sports Achievement Questionnaire (CCASAQ), and analysed with Pearson’s product-moment correlation and Fisher’s Z transformation. Findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between coaches’ competence and athletes’ achievement. Moreover, the relationship was stronger among female athletes compared to their male counterparts, and more pronounced in team sports than in individual sports. The study highlights the critical role of coaching competence in shaping athlete performance and recommends sustained investment in coach development programs to enhance sports outcomes across diverse athlete populations.
: Coaches, competence, Athletes, Sports achievement, Nigeria
Copyright (c) 2025 DR. Christopher O. Aluya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Phenomenon of Sports Violence in the Stadiums of the Kurdistan Region from the Perspective of Students of the Sports Institute in Akrê
The aim of this study was to explore the phenomenon of sports violence from the perspective of students at the Sports Institute in Akre, and to identify statistical differences based on the study variables (gender, academic year, and place of residence). The sample consisted of 79 male and female students from the institute, selected using the intentional method. The researchers adopted the descriptive approach in this study and employed a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The SPSS statistical software was used to analyze the data. The results showed that the overall level of sports violence was moderate. Statistically significant differences were found regarding the variable of place of residence, favoring students residing in urban areas. Additionally, there were significant differences related to the academic year, favoring third-year students. However, no statistically significant differences were found with respect to gender. The researchers recommended holding conferences, seminars, and workshops aimed at addressing the phenomenon of sports violence in Akre and the Kurdistan Region. Keywords: Violence in the Stadiums, Perspective, Sports Institute.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adris Saleeh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Comparative Study of Psychological Stress Among Students of Selected Scientific and Humanitarian Colleges at the University of Duhok
The current study aimed to examine psychological stress among students at the University of Duhok by achieving the following objectives: identifying the level of psychological stress among students from selected scientific and humanities colleges at the University of Duhok; determining the significance of differences in stress levels between students who engage in sports activities and those who do not; and examining the significance of differences in psychological stress based on the variables of college affiliation and gender. The researchers defined the study population to include all students enrolled in the Colleges of Engineering, Science, Basic Education, and Physical Education and Sport Sciences during the 2023–2024 , totaling 6,348 students. A sample of 388 students (male and female) was selected randomly, representing 6.11% of the total population. The study adopted the descriptive approach for data analysis. The researchers utilized the Psychological Stress Scale developed by Ali (2005). The following statistical methods were employed: Pearson correlation , Spearman-Brown correction formula, means and standard deviations, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. The study yielded the following results: A moderate level of psychological stress was observed among students from selected scientific and humanities colleges at the University of Duhok. No statistically significant differences were found between the mean stress scores of students who engage in sports and those who do not. Statistically significant differences were found among the participants based on the variables of college affiliation and gender. Keywords: Psychological Stress, University Students, Scientific and Humanitarian Colleges, Gender Differences
Copyright (c) 2025 kawar mustafa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Contribution Ratio of Selected Physical Attributes to the Performance of Selected Basic Offensive Skills in Basketball among Players of the University of Zakho National Team
This study aims to investigate the contribution of selected physical attributes—namely strength, speed, and balance—to the performance of key offensive skills in basketball, including passing, dribbling, and shooting. The research utilized a descriptive correlational methodology and involved a purposive sample of 12 players from the University of Zakho basketball team, representing the full population of the study. To achieve the objectives, data were collected using expert-approved physical and skill-based tests. Statistical methods such as Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the relationships and determine the predictive power of the physical attributes. The findings revealed a strong, statistically significant negative correlation between speed and passing performance, indicating that increased physical speed enhances passing efficiency. While other relationships between physical attributes and offensive skills were not statistically significant, they demonstrated practical trends. Regression models explained a notable proportion of performance variance—ranging from 42% to 47%—with speed emerging as the most influential variable in passing and shooting, and strength showing a moderate influence on dribbling. The study concludes that targeted development of speed and strength should be prioritized in training programs to enhance offensive performance in basketball. It recommends further research with larger and more diverse samples and encourages the inclusion of additional physical attributes such as agility and neuromuscular coordination in future studies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Qahraman Zainal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mechanomyographic Amplitude-Force Relationships of the Biceps Brachii Differ Between Sexes During Linearly Varying Muscle Actions and Provide Insight on Muscle Morphology
This study compared mechanomyographic amplitude (MMGRMS)-force relationships of the biceps brachii (BB) between sexes during moderate- and high-intensity increasing, steady, and decreasing isometric motor tasks. Twenty participants (ten males, ten females) performed maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the elbow flexors followed by isometric trapezoidal muscle actions at 40% and 70% MVC. MMG signals were recorded from the BB. MMGRMS-force relationships during the increasing and decreasing segments were log-transformed to calculate a (gain) and b (slope) terms. MMGRMS was averaged during steady force. BB muscle cross-sectional area (mCSA) was measured via ultrasonography. The b terms, collapsed across segment and intensity, were greater for males (0.665±0.160) than the females (0.360±0.184; p<0.001). The a terms for the females during the 40% MVC (0.103±0.101) were greater than the males (0.018±0.014; p=0.026). MMGRMS, collapsed across intensity, was greater in males (0.256±0.091 m·s-2) than females (0.159±0.041 m·s-2; p=0.006). mCSA was correlated with the b terms (p=0.001; r=0.67) and MMGRMS (p<0.001; r=0.75). The greater b terms for the males and the relationships between b terms and mCSA may result from larger MUs producing greater twitch forces throughout the recruitment spectrum. MMGRMS differentiated BB MU behavior between sexes during various muscle actions and was sensitive to muscle size.
Copyright (c) 2025 Brenden Roth, Alex Olmos, Kylie Sears, Tony Montgomery, Taylor Dinyer-McNeely, Shane Hammer, Haley Bergstrom, Ethan Hill, Pasquale Succi, Lyric Richardson, Sean Lubiak, Michael Trevino (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0