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Full-Text Articles in Education

Interactive Associations Between Physical Activity And Sleep Architecture On Cognition In Community-Dwelling Older Black Adults, Joshua L. Gills, Anhiti Dharmapuri, Rachel Mccray, Shreshtha Shah, Anthony Q. Briggs, Purbanka Pahari, Dominique Tanner, Mark A. Bernard, Elena Valkanova, Korey Kam, Ankit Parekh, Lisa L. Barnes, Gbenga Ogedegbe, Omonigho M. Bubu Apr 2026

Interactive Associations Between Physical Activity And Sleep Architecture On Cognition In Community-Dwelling Older Black Adults, Joshua L. Gills, Anhiti Dharmapuri, Rachel Mccray, Shreshtha Shah, Anthony Q. Briggs, Purbanka Pahari, Dominique Tanner, Mark A. Bernard, Elena Valkanova, Korey Kam, Ankit Parekh, Lisa L. Barnes, Gbenga Ogedegbe, Omonigho M. Bubu

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Growing evidence suggests an interactive relationship between physical activity (PA) and sleep in shaping cognitive performance. Enhanced sleep features, like greater K-complex density and slow-wave activity, may reflect mechanisms through which PA and restorative sleep improve cognitive function. PURPOSE: To examine how PA and sleep architecture interact to influence cognition in older Black adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 51 participants (mean age: 63.1 ± 15.8 years) from NYU’s Aging Research In Sleep Equity and Dementia Prevention Program. Participants underwent neuropsychological testing, polysomnography, clinical evaluation, and seven days of actigraphy to assess PA and sedentary behavior. Cognitive tasks measured processing …


Use Of Resistive Exercise Snacks To Improve Upper Body Fitness In Undergraduate And Graduate Students, Zachary Abouelkawaam, Kevin Vaughan, Alexander Rothstein, Abdelmohsen Mossolem, Jean-Paul Dodier, Carlos Africa, Freddie Leong, John Handrakis Apr 2026

Use Of Resistive Exercise Snacks To Improve Upper Body Fitness In Undergraduate And Graduate Students, Zachary Abouelkawaam, Kevin Vaughan, Alexander Rothstein, Abdelmohsen Mossolem, Jean-Paul Dodier, Carlos Africa, Freddie Leong, John Handrakis

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Graduate/undergraduate students lack time for consistent physical activity, leading to declines in fitness. Exercise snacks (ExSnck), short bouts of submaximal exercise performed throughout the day, may offer a solution. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a 6-week upper body ExSnck program on endurance, strength, power, and enjoyment compared to a 1-set maximal exercise (MaxEx) protocol and a control group. METHODS: 43 participants were randomly assigned to ExSnck (n=15), MaxEx (n=16), or Control (n=12) groups. The ExSnck group performed 33% of their maximal push-ups and plank time for 3 sessions/day (sessions ≥2hrs apart). The MaxEx group performed the same …


Association Between Coaching Behavior Styles And Athlete Well-Being: A Systematic Review, Matthew Benavides, Olivia Evola, Devjja V. Joshi, Arpita M. Bedarkar, Amerigo Rossi Apr 2026

Association Between Coaching Behavior Styles And Athlete Well-Being: A Systematic Review, Matthew Benavides, Olivia Evola, Devjja V. Joshi, Arpita M. Bedarkar, Amerigo Rossi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Coaching behavior plays a critical role in shaping athlete outcomes, including motivation, performance, satisfaction, and burnout. PURPOSE: Evaluates how different coaching styles are associated with athlete well-being and the psychological mechanisms involved. METHODS: A detailed search of ProQuest, Gale and EBSCO databases was done. Five peer-reviewed studies that met the inclusion criteria of college student athletes competing in NCAA or NAIA in the US or Canada and studies involving the coaching styles of either autocratic, democratic, transformational, congruent leadership or intrinsic motivation were systematically reviewed. 1,900 athletes were evaluated in the included studies of relationships between coaching behaviors and student …


Pre- To Post-Season Changes In Body Composition Among Division Iii Football Players, Sebastian Schaefer, Cesar Navarro, Edward Merritt Feb 2026

Pre- To Post-Season Changes In Body Composition Among Division Iii Football Players, Sebastian Schaefer, Cesar Navarro, Edward Merritt

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Collegiate football player body composition likely changes over the course of the season, and might differ based on player position. The extent to which this occurs in Division III football players is not known. PURPOSE: To examine differences in body composition from pre- to post-season and positional differences among Division III football players at Southwestern University. METHODS: Division III NCAA football players at Southwestern University were recruited prior to the 2025 season. Body composition was determined pre- and post-season by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).  Only athletes who completed the season and were not sidelined due to injury …


Footwear Matters: Speed And Barefoot Running Enhance Medial Gastrocnemius Emg, Kaleb M. Luna, Bryon C. Applequist Feb 2026

Footwear Matters: Speed And Barefoot Running Enhance Medial Gastrocnemius Emg, Kaleb M. Luna, Bryon C. Applequist

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Barefoot running alters foot strike mechanics and may change lower-extremity muscle demands compared to shod running, particularly at different speeds. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of footwear (barefoot vs. shod) and running speed (preferred vs. +20%) on normalized electromyographic (EMG) amplitude of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and tibialis anterior (TA) in recreational runners. METHODS: Five healthy recreational runners completed treadmill running trials at preferred speed and +20% preferred speed in barefoot and shod conditions. Bilateral surface EMG was recorded from MG and TA (1500 Hz). Signals were bandpass filtered (20–450 Hz), rectified, …


A Comparative Analysis Of Maladaptive Perfectionism In Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders, Maddox B. Utter, Christian O. Quintero, Samantha S. Dardaman, Stephen E. Rowden, Scott B. Martin Feb 2026

A Comparative Analysis Of Maladaptive Perfectionism In Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders, Maddox B. Utter, Christian O. Quintero, Samantha S. Dardaman, Stephen E. Rowden, Scott B. Martin

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Bodybuilding is a sport focused on physique optimization, where success is determined by judges’ evaluations of muscle mass, symmetry, and definition. Due to the sport’s emphasis of physical aesthetics, bodybuilders may feel the need to compare themselves with other competitors. This evaluation and comparison of physique may expose athletes to maladaptive perfectionistic tendencies, such as setting unattainably high standards, excessive worry over mistakes, and a diminished sense of competence. While current bodybuilding literature is limited, previous research suggests that perfectionism may lead to psychological impairments (e.g., body dysmorphia, anxiety, and reduced self-confidence) which may manifest differently between male and female …


How Does The Stage Of Pregnancy Influence Gait And Sway In Pregnant Women From Six To Eight Months., Lilie-Rose S. Gilbert, Scott P. Mclean, Edward Merritt Feb 2026

How Does The Stage Of Pregnancy Influence Gait And Sway In Pregnant Women From Six To Eight Months., Lilie-Rose S. Gilbert, Scott P. Mclean, Edward Merritt

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Physiological changes that affect gait, posture, and balance during the late stages of pregnancy increase the risk of falling.  These changes were examined across the stages of pregnancy using simulated pregnancy loading. PURPOSE: To compare gait and postural balance measures under three loading conditions simulating zero, 6, and 8-months of simulated pregnancy. We predicted that the added weight in late-stage pregnancy would adversely affect gait characteristics and reduce postural control. METHODS: Twenty-one healthy females (20.1±1.2 years, 1.79±0.11 m, 64.1±9.5 kg) completed a 10-m walking gait assessment.  They then completed three trials under each condition, including the Stability Evaluation Test (SET) …


Inter-Rater Reliability Of Manual Waist Circumference And Agreement With Dxa-Derived Waist In Male Collegiate Rugby Players, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane Feb 2026

Inter-Rater Reliability Of Manual Waist Circumference And Agreement With Dxa-Derived Waist In Male Collegiate Rugby Players, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Waist circumference (WC) is a low-cost surrogate of central adiposity, but measurement error can limit athlete monitoring. PURPOSE: Evaluate inter-rater reliability of manual WC and agreement with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-derived WC in male collegiate rugby players. METHODS: Twenty-one male collegiate rugby players completed baseline testing (manual WC and DXA completed same day) following an overnight fast and euhydration. Two trained raters independently measured WC on bare skin at the superior border of the iliac crest (site not pre-marked) using a seca 201 measurement tape, with participants standing feet together and arms relaxed at their sides; the tape was verified …


Associations Between Dxa-Derived Trunk Adiposity And Resting Hemodynamics In Male Collegiate Rugby Union Athletes, Adesiji Adetona, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane Feb 2026

Associations Between Dxa-Derived Trunk Adiposity And Resting Hemodynamics In Male Collegiate Rugby Union Athletes, Adesiji Adetona, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Trunk adiposity is a cardiometabolic risk factor that may relate to resting hemodynamics even in young athletic populations. PURPOSE: To examine associations between DXA-derived trunk percent fat and resting heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) in male collegiate rugby union athletes. METHODS: Twenty-one male rugby athletes completed morning testing (06:00–09:00 h) following ≥12 h fast and post-void, with stimulants (including caffeine) restricted ≥12 h and no exercise ≥24 h. Hydration was screened using urine specific gravity (USG; CLINITEK Status+ with Multistix 10 SG) and urine color (clear yellow). Whole-body DXA (Hologic Horizon W; APEX v5.6.1.3 rev 007) provided trunk …


Effects Of An 8-Week Resistance Training Program On Segmental Lean Mass, Corie N. Smith, Kornkanok Sophonsakulrat, Payton E. Miller, Laura Roden, Avery Prickell, Karley Rayfield, Katherine Adcock, Canyon Massengale, Jessica Jones, Grant Tinsely, Jacob A. Mota Feb 2026

Effects Of An 8-Week Resistance Training Program On Segmental Lean Mass, Corie N. Smith, Kornkanok Sophonsakulrat, Payton E. Miller, Laura Roden, Avery Prickell, Karley Rayfield, Katherine Adcock, Canyon Massengale, Jessica Jones, Grant Tinsely, Jacob A. Mota

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Resistance training is a powerful stimulus that is known to induce a myriad of positive effects in humans. A popular result desired by athletes is to increase muscle mass. However, the existing literature on resistance training and muscular hypertrophy focuses on whole body lean mass changes. The body of work which elucidate the effect of training on segmental lean mass is less documented. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a short-term resistance training intervention on segmental lean mass in previously untrained college aged women. METHODS: 22 college aged women (age: 21 ± 4) volunteered …


Changes In Ankle Angle And Knee Angle Throughout Gait With Ankle Bracing And Ankle Taping, Genavieve T. Evans, Tristyn G. Kattawar, Scott Mclean Feb 2026

Changes In Ankle Angle And Knee Angle Throughout Gait With Ankle Bracing And Ankle Taping, Genavieve T. Evans, Tristyn G. Kattawar, Scott Mclean

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Ankle taping and ankle bracing are the most common solutions to chronic ankle instability and ankle injuries, however, scientific findings suggest that changes in the individual’s gait patterns can occur with the addition of ankle restrictions. PURPOSE: to compare the effects of ankle bracing and taping with no support to lower extremity joint kinematics while walking on a treadmill. METHODS: Seventeen collegiate athletes (19.9 yrs, 1.74 m, 71.2 kg) completed walking trials on a treadmill under three ankle support conditions; no support, ankle taping, and ankle brace.  Ankle and knee angles were measured during the walking trials using electrogoniometers. Peak …


Impact Of An 8-Week Personalized Exercise Program On Health-Related Fitness Parameters, Michelle Castro, Jasmeen Fajardo-Lopez, Major Martin, Raejone Lucas, Brock Niceler Md, Yunsuk Koh Feb 2026

Impact Of An 8-Week Personalized Exercise Program On Health-Related Fitness Parameters, Michelle Castro, Jasmeen Fajardo-Lopez, Major Martin, Raejone Lucas, Brock Niceler Md, Yunsuk Koh

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Introduction: A routine exercise program has been recommended across all demographic groups to improve cardiovascular health, muscle function, cognitive function, and mental health. Purpose: This study examined how personalized exercise affects health-related fitness parameters. Method: A total of 17 patients (age=42.88±12.89 years, male=1, and females=16), attending the fitness program at a regional hospital, were recruited. A health-related fitness battery test, including cardiorespiratory endurance, resting heart rate and blood pressure, motor fitness, musculoskeletal fitness, flexibility, body composition, and balance, was administered at the pre- (week 0), mid- (week 4), and post-study (week 8) periods. Results: Body fat (%) significantly decreased by …


Differences In Lower Body Power, Maximum Voluntary Contraction (Mvc) Of The Arms, Grip Strength, And Reaction Time In Recreational Pickleball Players And Sedentary Women: A Pilot Study, Ayah R. Elshafie, Kamila Naranjo, Pamela Gonzalez, Hashim Elshafie, Victoria Garcia, Areli Cisneros, Jabeth Azpeitia, Ulku Karabulut, Rebekah Schlatter, Guillermo Perez Feb 2026

Differences In Lower Body Power, Maximum Voluntary Contraction (Mvc) Of The Arms, Grip Strength, And Reaction Time In Recreational Pickleball Players And Sedentary Women: A Pilot Study, Ayah R. Elshafie, Kamila Naranjo, Pamela Gonzalez, Hashim Elshafie, Victoria Garcia, Areli Cisneros, Jabeth Azpeitia, Ulku Karabulut, Rebekah Schlatter, Guillermo Perez

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Recreational pickleball participation has increased substantially among adult women; however, limited research exists examining neuromuscular performance in this population. PURPOSE: The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of assessing lower body muscular power, maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of the biceps and triceps brachii, grip strength, and reaction time in active pickleball-playing women compared to sedentary women to inform future research. METHODS: Ten participants (pickleball n=5, sedentary n=5) visited the laboratory to complete anthropometric measurements, lower body power assessment using a standardized sit-to-stand protocol with a Power Tendo device, and upper-extremity assessments including MVC for elbow flexion …


Comparison Of Dxa-Derived Body Volume Estimation Equations (Wilson Vs Smith-Ryan) In Collegiate Rugby Union Athletes, Jmya Hughes, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane Feb 2026

Comparison Of Dxa-Derived Body Volume Estimation Equations (Wilson Vs Smith-Ryan) In Collegiate Rugby Union Athletes, Jmya Hughes, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Matthew Poole, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Accurate estimation of body volume (BV) is required for multicomponent body composition models. PURPOSE: Compare two published DXA-derived BV equations (Wilson vs Smith-Ryan) using whole-body Hologic DXA tissue masses in collegiate rugby union athletes. METHODS: Twenty-one male rugby union athletes underwent whole-body DXA (Hologic Horizon W; APEX v5.6.1.3 Rev 007; Classic calibration [NHANES BCA disabled]; standard tissue analysis; daily QC within tolerance) during morning testing (06:00–09:00 h) while fasted and post-void; caffeine was avoided (≥12 h) and exercise was avoided (≥24 h). Hydration was assessed prior to scanning via urine specific gravity (Siemens CLINITEK Status+; Multistix 10 SG) and urine …


Agreement Of Seca 286 Scale Weight With Dxa Acquisition Weight, Apex Soft-Tissue Mass, And Dxa Sum-Of-Components Mass In Collegiate Rugby Athletes, Matthew Poole, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane Feb 2026

Agreement Of Seca 286 Scale Weight With Dxa Acquisition Weight, Apex Soft-Tissue Mass, And Dxa Sum-Of-Components Mass In Collegiate Rugby Athletes, Matthew Poole, Hayden Johnson, Christian Rivera, Stephanie Hansford, Regan Renfro, Dalton Prye, Saheed Jaiyeola, Sage A. Newman, Adesiji Adetona, Oscar Woodside, Jmya Hughes, Preston James, Kelly Hines, Jade Simon, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christopher D. Greenleaf, Micheil Spillane

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Accurate body mass is foundational for DXA-derived indices and longitudinal tracking. PURPOSE: Determine agreement between Seca 286 scale weight and DXA acquisition weight, quantify the difference between DXA acquisition weight and the APEX whole-body mass field (fat + lean), and evaluate a DXA sum-of-components mass (fat + lean + BMC) relative to scale weight as an internal QC check (Houtkooper et al., Am J Clin Nutr, 2000). METHODS: Twenty-one male rugby union athletes completed same-morning testing (06:00–09:00 h) while fasted and post-void; caffeine was restricted (≥12 h) and exercise abstained (≥24 h). Hydration was screened prior to DXA. Body mass …


The Effect Of Different Post-Activation Potentiation Protocols On Peak Muscle Torque During Knee Extension, Kaileb Bayliss, Steven Prince, Casi Helbig Feb 2026

The Effect Of Different Post-Activation Potentiation Protocols On Peak Muscle Torque During Knee Extension, Kaileb Bayliss, Steven Prince, Casi Helbig

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Post-activation potentiation is an important tool to utilize when trying to optimize exercise and sport performance. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze different protocol lengths to determine if the post-activation potentiation effect can still manifest after just 1 specific warm up set vs. multiple specific warm up sets. METHODS: Subjects included eighteen college students from Texas Lutheran University with a mean age of 21.67 years (+/-2.70), height of 66.68 inches (+/-3.12), and weight of 176.56 pounds (+/-44.77). The subjects started the first session with a GWU that manifested as a 5 minute walk on an …


Prep Monitoring, Coaching Presence, And Competitive Anxiety In Bodybuilders, Rafael E. Cachutt, Samantha S. Dardaman, Christian O. Quintero, Stephen E. Rowden, Maddox B. Utter, Scott B. Martin Feb 2026

Prep Monitoring, Coaching Presence, And Competitive Anxiety In Bodybuilders, Rafael E. Cachutt, Samantha S. Dardaman, Christian O. Quintero, Stephen E. Rowden, Maddox B. Utter, Scott B. Martin

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Competitive bodybuilding involves severe dietary restriction, high training demands, and constant evaluation of physique-related outcomes. Within the sport, it is common for competitors to engage in intensive prep monitoring behaviors such as tracking caloric intake and training load to support contest preparation. As contest prep practices may tax attentional resources and disrupt emotional regulation of competitors, some athletes utilize formal coaching to assist with performance monitoring while others engage in self-coaching strategies. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine sport anxiety levels amongst competitive bodybuilders who engage in prep monitoring behaviors. Additionally, the contribution of coaching presence was …


Lat Pulldown Load Velocity Profiling In Upper-Body Dominant Athletes: A Preliminary Report, Darian B. Hastings, Benjamin P. Doyle, John D. Tebbetts, Bryan B. Crutcher, J Bryan Mann Feb 2026

Lat Pulldown Load Velocity Profiling In Upper-Body Dominant Athletes: A Preliminary Report, Darian B. Hastings, Benjamin P. Doyle, John D. Tebbetts, Bryan B. Crutcher, J Bryan Mann

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The lat pulldown (LPD) is a common strength exercise aimed to improve maximal strength and power of the latissimus dorsi, the primary agonist muscle for vertical pulling patterns common in sports such as swimming and sport climbing. There is limited research supporting the use of load velocity profiling of the LPD exercise for determining maximal vertical pulling power in upper-body dominant athletes and using these profiles to predict sport-specific performance capabilities. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to validate the use of load velocity profiling of the LPD exercise as a predictive measure of vertical pulling power in upper-body …


Aerobic Capacity And Maximal Work Performance In Firefighters: The Role Of Age And Body Composition In Occupational Health Risk, Payton E. Miller, Michael Conner, Grant M. Tinsley, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christine M. Florez, Carina M. Velasquez, Kelly Hines, Jacob A. Mota Feb 2026

Aerobic Capacity And Maximal Work Performance In Firefighters: The Role Of Age And Body Composition In Occupational Health Risk, Payton E. Miller, Michael Conner, Grant M. Tinsley, Drew E. Gonzalez, Christine M. Florez, Carina M. Velasquez, Kelly Hines, Jacob A. Mota

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Firefighting requires repeated bouts of high-intensity physical work performed under extreme environmental conditions, placing substantial strain on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of on-duty firefighter fatalities, with the majority of deaths occurring among firefighters aged 40 years and older. Physiological characteristics such as age and body composition influence aerobic capacity and maximal work performance, both of which are critical and essential while performing strenuous operations. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine how age, sex, and body composition affect aerobic capacity (VO2peak) and maximal work capacity (Wmax …


The Role Of Attentional Focus In Ergometer Rowing Performance, Ana C. Morales Elizondo, Tatiana Zhuravleva Feb 2026

The Role Of Attentional Focus In Ergometer Rowing Performance, Ana C. Morales Elizondo, Tatiana Zhuravleva

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The effects of internal attentional cues versus external attentional cues have produced inconclusive findings regarding which attentional cue is more beneficial (Newmann, et al. 2020). Recent research has found a holistic approach that improves performance and learning in discrete tasks like vertical jumps; however, it has not been investigated with continuous tasks like rowing. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of internal, external, and holistic attentional cues on ergometer rowing performance. METHODS: Thirty-seven participants performed a six-minute ergometer rowing task across three different sessions, with at least 48 hours between each session, in a counterbalanced …


How Self-Talk Affects Performance Among Ncaa Division Iii Female Athletes, Micah Rabey, Briannah Mejias, Giana Hilliard, Cambryn Holloway, Matt Robinson, Kristen Mcalexander Feb 2026

How Self-Talk Affects Performance Among Ncaa Division Iii Female Athletes, Micah Rabey, Briannah Mejias, Giana Hilliard, Cambryn Holloway, Matt Robinson, Kristen Mcalexander

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Self-talk alters mental toughness, emotional control, and behavioral reactions, and can affect an athlete’s cognitive and psychological condition throughout training, competition, and practice. Few studies have examined the role of self-talk specifically among female athletes and no known study has measured its effects among female athletes at the NCAA Division III level. PURPOSE: Examine how NCAA Division III female student athletes describe the role of self-talk in their athletic performance and identify specific ways they perceive self-talk, its functions during training and competition, and its impact on focus, motivation, confidence, and overall performance. METHODS: In the Fall of 2025, modified …


Acute Effects Of Carbon Fiber Plate Insoles On Drop-Jump Performance And Force Characteristics In Recreationally Trained Adults, Becca Henicke, Boram Lim Feb 2026

Acute Effects Of Carbon Fiber Plate Insoles On Drop-Jump Performance And Force Characteristics In Recreationally Trained Adults, Becca Henicke, Boram Lim

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Carbon fiber plate insoles (CFPI) are designed to increase footwear stiffness and may improve elastic energy utilization during human locomotion. However, most research has focused on CFPI effects in running and sprinting, particularly endurance running, with limited evidence examining their impact on plyometric performance that relies heavily on the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC), a key mechanism underlying many sports movements.  Because SSC involves a rapid eccentric-to-concentric transition that stores and releases elastic energy, the drop jump provides a practical model to assess SSC efficiency with and without CFPI. PURPOSE: To examine the effects of CFPI on SSC efficiency and jump …


Correlations Between Lower Body Plyometrics And Sprint Speed, Andrew Burnett, Casi Helbig Feb 2026

Correlations Between Lower Body Plyometrics And Sprint Speed, Andrew Burnett, Casi Helbig

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Speed and power are attributes that every athlete strives to improve. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine which of four plyometric tests correlated to sprint speed. METHODS: The subjects were 37 Texas Lutheran University baseball players. Participants performed a vertical jump, broad jump, triple broad jump, and 4-jump vertical test along with a thirty-yard sprint. Before each test, the subjects were put through the same dynamic warmup that was created by the experimenter. A vertical jump mat was used to measure both the vertical jump and the four jump vertical test. The vertical jump test …


Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Baili Deaver, Joseph Friederich, Chuck Ruot, Lindsay Spindler Feb 2026

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Baili Deaver, Joseph Friederich, Chuck Ruot, Lindsay Spindler

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

CLINICAL PRESENTATION & EXAM: The primary characteristic of this condition is anterior patellar pain that worsens when the knee is put in a flexed, weight-bearing position. Patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) typically experience pain or stiffness during prolonged periods of sitting or when the patient descends stairs. Some of the most common forms of examination include examining a patient's gait, posture, and footwear. The patient should be asked about their current activity level, previous knee surgery or injuries, and recent changes in activity. Occasionally, knee buckling may occur due to weakness or pain in the quadriceps, resulting in …


Preliminary Data On The Effect Of Exercise Time Of Day In Sedentary Young Adult Females, Autum Andrusick, Julia Martin, Robyn T. Whitehead, Malcolm T. Whitehead Feb 2026

Preliminary Data On The Effect Of Exercise Time Of Day In Sedentary Young Adult Females, Autum Andrusick, Julia Martin, Robyn T. Whitehead, Malcolm T. Whitehead

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Research studies investigating the time of day that individuals engage in exercise have not specifically targeted sedentary females or their preferred time of day to engage in exercise. Previously published studies have implemented cohorts that include both males and females and/or have focused on hormonal influences and daily patterns. Perceived energy and activation levels (for example: active, calm, and sleepy) have yet to be investigated as determinants of exercise time of day preference factors. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to determine if exercise time of day effects mood in sedentary adult females. METHODS: Eight females aged 23 ± …


Does Perceived Competence And Practice Type Influence Motor Performance In Softball Pitchers Developing A New Pitch Type?, Anthony W. Fava, Matthew Miller, Emily Sauers, Gretchen Oliver Feb 2026

Does Perceived Competence And Practice Type Influence Motor Performance In Softball Pitchers Developing A New Pitch Type?, Anthony W. Fava, Matthew Miller, Emily Sauers, Gretchen Oliver

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Competence-based motivation frameworks use perceived self-confidence (PSC) to explain performance outcomes. Although PSC has been associated with improved performance on fundamental motor skills, PSC can also be task specific and may change depending on particular contexts within a sport. PURPOSE: To assess whether PSC influenced motor performance in softball pitchers developing a new pitch type under two different practice types. METHODS: Fifty adolescent-aged softball pitchers participated. Pitchers were randomly assigned into two practice types: Constraints-led Approach (CLA), (14.9±1.2y,64.8±10.1kg,1.69±0.1m), and Traditional (Trad), (14.5±1.0y, 65.4±11.4kg, 1.67±0.1m). Recruited pitchers indicated the drop ball (DB) was not their ‘go-to’ pitch nor was …


Effect Of Lower Leg Air Compression On Systemic Blood Pressure, Kimberly Livingston, John D. Smith Feb 2026

Effect Of Lower Leg Air Compression On Systemic Blood Pressure, Kimberly Livingston, John D. Smith

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Given the critical role of blood pressure monitoring in clinical settings and the widespread use of compression therapy, it is important to clarify whether and how leg compression devices influence blood pressure. PURPOSE: To examine blood pressure and heart rate responses to intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC). METHODS: Participants (n=21, age=24.3±8.0 yrs, ht=164.1±7.4 cm, wt=69.5±15.2 kg) reclined on a chair and rested for 5 minutes after which blood pressure and heart rate was measured using an Omron automatized device. An air compression therapy boot was used on the right and left legs using a circulation mode on the maximum setting for …


Association Between Habitual Sleep Duration Variability And Cardiovascular Reactivity To Mental Stress, Anjana Chepur, Jeremy A. Bigalke, Jason R. Carter Feb 2026

Association Between Habitual Sleep Duration Variability And Cardiovascular Reactivity To Mental Stress, Anjana Chepur, Jeremy A. Bigalke, Jason R. Carter

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Nightly variability in sleep duration is an independent predictor of cardiovascular risk, yet the physiological mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. Few investigations have focused on whether variability in habitual sleep duration influences autonomic and cardiovascular responses to acute stress. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether habitual variability in nightly sleep duration predicts autonomic and cardiovascular reactivity to acute psychosocial stress, as measured by blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rate variability (HRV) changes during the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). We hypothesized that individuals with greater sleep duration variability would exhibit exaggerated autonomic and cardiovascular …


Effect Of Walking With Weighted Vest On Gait Mechanics And Energy Expenditure, Nicholas Becerra, John D. Smith Feb 2026

Effect Of Walking With Weighted Vest On Gait Mechanics And Energy Expenditure, Nicholas Becerra, John D. Smith

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Weighted vests are used in many different types of exercises to increase difficulty/intensity. The distribution of weight matters when it comes to performance (Gerhart et al. 2020), and if weight is not distributed properly, then balance may be affected, thereby changing gait and further increasing energy expenditure. Others have also suggested increasing the load of the weighted vest can decrease pH level within the body (Martínez-Noguera, et al. 2024), however it is unclear is changes in gait are contributing to this increased effort. PURPOSE: to investigate the effect of using a weighted vest while walking on a treadmill has …


Skeletal Muscle Mass Estimation By Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry And Bioimpedance Techniques In Muscular, Resistance-Trained Adults, John R. Alexander, Christian Rodriguez, Christine M. Florez, Ethan G. Tinoco, Julia Whitson, Carina M. Velasquez, Grant M. Tinsley Feb 2026

Skeletal Muscle Mass Estimation By Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry And Bioimpedance Techniques In Muscular, Resistance-Trained Adults, John R. Alexander, Christian Rodriguez, Christine M. Florez, Ethan G. Tinoco, Julia Whitson, Carina M. Velasquez, Grant M. Tinsley

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Skeletal muscle mass (SMM) is an important body composition metric in clinical and research settings. However, criterion methods such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are largely inaccessible, so surrogate methods such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and bioelectrical impedance are used to estimate SMM. The agreement of these surrogate estimates may be impacted by physiological characteristics of the specific populations being evaluated. PURPOSE: To compare SMM estimates derived from DXA and bioimpedance methods using differing prediction equations within a sample of muscular, resistance-trained adults. METHODS: Forty participants (23 M, 17 F; [mean ± SD] age: 28.1 …