Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Humeral Retroversion, Range Of Motion, And Strength Adaptations In Tennis Players, Daniel Hannah

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Purpose: This study aimed to develop an understanding of humeral retroversion (HRV) asymmetries in tennis players and its impact on physical and performance characteristics of the shoulder.Participants: Healthy tennis players were categorized into 3 groups: younger juniors (n=11, age=14.5±0.5 years), older juniors (n=12, age=17.1±0.9 years), and collegiate (n=16, age=19.6±1.2 years). Methods: HRV, internal rotation (IR), and external rotation (ER), total arc of motion (TAM), HRV-corrected IR (HRVcIR), and HRV-corrected ER (HRVcER) were measured and calculated bilaterally using a digital inclinometer and ultrasonography. Bilateral differences (Δ) were calculated (dominant minus nondominant) for HRV and ROM variables. Isometric ER:IR strength ratios …

The Effects Of Branched Chained Amino Acid Supplementation On Acute Markers Of Fatigue And Performance, Joseph Walters

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purposes of this dissertation were to investigate the acute effects of branched-chain amino acids on psychological, physiological, and subsequent performance changes following high volume resistance training. The rationale for this study design was based on abrupt or contiguous training/ competitions that specific athletes encounter in a competitive season. This study design also sought to fill some gaps in the scientific literature concerning the efficacy of BCAAs for subjective fatigue in a resistance training paradigm. To address the purposes of this dissertation, a one-week study was conducted on resistance trained males, in which half of the subjects were randomly selected …

Individual Eeg Asymmetry As A Predictor Of Hydration Status During Exercise In The Heat, Ayano Katayama

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Hydration behavior varies among individuals; continuous and correct fluid consumption behavior prevents decreased physical performance and severe dehydration, especially during extended exercise and hot environments. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine individual frontal alpha electroencephalographic asymmetry index (FAI) score in eu-hydrated, hypo-hydrated, and exercise in well-trained men and assess if there is a correlation between FAI score and individual ad libitum fluid consumption behavior. Subjects were kinesiology major college students ranging from 21 to 29 years of age. Subjects were categorized either approach group (n = 8) with resting FAI score more than 0 or avoidance …

The Influence Of Chronic Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation On Measures Of Central And Peripheral Fatigue In Training Athletes, Tara K. Whiton

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation may improve recovery from competitive endurance training by reducing symptoms of central and peripheral fatigue. The purpose of this dissertation was to provide evidence for the use of BCAAs as a training nutrition strategy in order to improve recovery from training and further drive adaptive processes to training by increasing readiness to train. Collegiate distance runners undergoing intense competitive endurance training were monitored for symptoms of muscular soreness and psychological stress through a rated soreness chart and the Daily Analysis of Life Demands for Athletes Survey (DALDA) while taking either a BCAA supplement or a …

Effects Of Neuromuscular Fatigue Resulting From Repeat Sprint Exercise Among Trained Cyclists On Measures Of Strength And Power Performance, Robert B. Blaisdell

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this dissertation is to better understand the role of repeated-sprint ability (RSA) and resulting fatigue in cyclists; how it relates to measures of aerobic power and strength and power performance indices- due to the nature of cycling competitions and the necessity of RSA for success.

The first part of this dissertation attempted to elucidate the relationship between RSA and aerobic power and strength/ power measures in competitive cyclists. The purpose was to potentially illustrate the importance of the inclusion of strength and power training in the training regimen of cyclists. The findings showed several statistically significant relationships …

The Salivary Alpha-Amylase Response To Resistance Training, Asher Flynn

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purposes of this dissertation were to investigate the response of salivary alpha-amylase to a single resistance training session and to a week-long resistance training over-reaching protocol. The major findings of this dissertation are as follows:

Study 1 – A single resistance training session consisting of 5 sets of 10 repetitions of squat and bench press at 95 percent of repetition maximum creates a statistically significant increase in salivary alpha-amylase concentrations.

Study 2 – Two resistance training sessions consisting of 5 sets of 10 repetitions of squat and bench press at 95 percent of repetition maximum within 5 days does …

Changes In Psychological, Morphological, And Performance Characteristics In Preparation For A National Weightlifting Competition, Donald Marsh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The primary aim of this study was to examine the time course of change in muscle morphology and vertical jump performance in weightlifters preparing for a national competition. The secondary aim of this study is to examine how perceived recovery and stress state corresponds with alterations in training load leading up to competition. Eleven Olympic Training Site weightlifters completed a 4-week peaking phase for a national competition. Body mass, stress and recovery psychometric measures, and unloaded/loaded (20kg) squat jump height (SJH) were measured weekly and at the competition site. Vastus lateralis cross-sectional area (CSA), muscle thickness (MT) and pennation angle …

Barbell Trajectory And Kinematics During Two International Weightlifting Championships, Aaron J. Cunanan

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Several methods have been used in the scientific literature to study the weightlifting pull. Broadly, these methods are used to measure kinematic or kinetic variables exhibited by the lifter, the barbell, or the lifter-barbell system. However, there is an apparent disconnect between weightlifting research and coaching practice that may reduce the perceived benefits of technique analysis among coaches and present some challenges for coaches who seek to incorporate technique analysis into their coaching practice. Differences and trends in the technique of competitive weightlifting performances are apparent from the available literature. However, there are also gaps in the literature due to …

Exploring The Match Demands Of Division I Women’S Collegiate Soccer, Robert W. Sausaman

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this dissertation is to shed light on the physical demands of women’s soccer at the NCAA division I college level. Though research does exists describing the physical demands of women’s soccer, the vast majority seeks to explain the physical demands association with the professional and international level. This dissertation sought to: 1) examine the physical demands of NCAA division I women’s soccer and 2) observe changes in physical demands of two NCAA division I women’s soccer players over a four-year career using a case study approach.

Study 1 examined the physical demands of twenty-three athlete from a …

The Effect Of Functional Movement Control On Patient-Reported Outcomes In Individuals With Non-Arthritic Hip Pain, Ryan Mcgovern

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Purpose: Both the single leg squat test and step-down test assess for deficiencies relating to the hip and surrounding musculoskeletal structures and could be useful in the evaluation of functional movement control for individuals with non-arthritic hip pain. The purpose of this study is to determine if individuals with non-arthritic hip pain that improve functional movement control during the single leg squat test and step-down test have better patient-reported outcomes than those that do not improve, following the implementation of a rehabilitation intervention and a standardized home-exercise program.

Subjects: Forty-six individuals (31 females; 15 males) with a mean age of …

Comparison Of Post-Activation Potentiation Methods On Power And Sprint Acceleration, Aaron Piper

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Post-activation potentiation (PAP) is a stimulus used to enhance performance by performing specific interventions prior to subsequent explosive movements. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of different PAP methods on power and sprint acceleration in resistance trained, college-aged men and women. A total of 13 subjects participated in the study. After determining back squat 1 repetition max, subjects returned for testing on separate days to complete one of four interventions (dynamic resistance, weighted plyometric, isometric, or control) in a randomized order. A standardized warmup was given, followed by a baseline countermovement jump (CMJ) and 20-meter sprint. …

Hemoglobin A1c Levels And Sport Participation In Children With Type 1 Diabetes., Amy Kozerski

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study’s purpose was to determine a possible difference in hemoglobin A1c levels and sport participation in children with type 1 diabetes. Patients with provided consent via an iPad electronic informed consent/assent (preamble) completed a physical activity and sport participation survey. The survey was linked to their medical chart including demographic and diabetes medical history (e.g. HbA1c). The analyses provided a sample of 120 participants, 40 in the no sport participation group and 78 in the sport participation group with 56 females and 64 males, with an average age12.94±2.8 years. An independent sample t-test, removing one outlier from the …

The Impact Of Palm Cooling Gloves On Cardiovascular, Thermoregulatory, Metabolic, Perceptual, And Ergogenic Responses Produced From Rowing Ergometry., Ian O'Brien

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Subjects (n = 34) did three rowing workouts of up to eight 2- minute stages separated by 45-60 second rests. Cardiovascular, ergogenic, thermoregulatory, perceptual and metabolic responses to workouts may be aided by intermittent palm cooling. Subjects received one of the following treatments per workout in a randomized sequence: no palm cooling, intermittent palm cooling during workouts, or palm cooling applied intermittently during workouts and post-exercise recovery. Methods: Palm cooling entailed intermittent cold (8-11o C) against the palmar surface of subject’s hands. Workouts began with 10 minutes of rest, followed by a 10-minute low- intensity warm-up and the workout, concluding …

Phase Specific Changes In Rate Of Force Development And Muscle Morphology Throughout A Block Periodized Training Cycle In Weightlifters, Dylan Guidetti Suarez

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate the kinetic and morphological adaptations that occur during distinct phases of a block periodized training cycle in weightlifters. Monitoring data from nine experienced collegiate weightlifters was examined retrospectively. Isometric mid-thigh pull and ultrasonography results from pre and post three specific training phases within a macrocycle leading up to a competition were compared. Changes in isometric rate of force development and vastus lateralis cross-sectional area reflected the expected adaptations of each training phase.

Diagnosis And Rehabilitation Of Multiple Hip Pathologies In A Division I Football Player: A Case Study, Kelsey E. Sanders

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Objective: To present a diagnosis and rehabilitation plan for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tear, and sports hernia in a Division I college football player. Background: A 21-year-old NCAA Division I college football player experienced a rare combination diagnosis of hip FAI, labral tear and sports hernia. Overlapping signs and symptoms proved difficult to conclude a diagnosis. The patient underwent three months of conservative treatment with no relief before electing to undergo surgery. Differential Diagnosis: Hip flexor strain, osteitis pubis. Treatment: A combination of conservative treatment such as activity modification, anti-inflammatories, therapeutic modalities, injections, and rehabilitation were unsuccessful in relieving symptoms …

Using Maximum Power As A Variable For 1rm Prediction In The Squat And Bench Press, Sean O'Connor

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Many Strength and Conditioning (S&C) coaches utilize a one-rep max (1RM) exercise test to gauge the maximal strength of athletes, and then prescribe resistance training programs based on a relative percentage of 1RM to obtain strength or power adaptations. However, many S&C coaches have raised questions regarding the safety and necessity of a 1RM test. Attempts to mitigate the weaknesses of 1RM testing have led to other methods of testing including repetition max testing (3RM, 5RM, 10RM, etc.) as well as load/velocity profiling. The main purpose of this study is to determine if 1RM can be accurately estimated from maximal …

Impact Of Concussion And Orthopedic Injuries On Physical Activity And Quality Of Life After Sport Retirement, Makenna Hancock

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

CONTEXT: Concussions and orthopedic injuries represent a significant risk related to participation in collegiate athletics. These injuries can create significant long-term impairments and functional limitations which may also decrease former athletes’ quality of life (QoL) and inhibit their ability to engage in physical activity. OBJECTIVE: To investigate QoL and physical activity levels of former collegiate athletes with a history of concussion and orthopedic injury, orthopedic injury only, and healthy controls. DESIGN: Descriptive, experimental study.
SETTING: Daily life as former National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I collegiate athlete.
PARTICIPANTS: Former Division I collegiate athletes competing in football, women’s soccer, baseball, softball, …

The Relationship Between Campus Wellness Center Usage And Symptoms Of Depression In College Freshmen, Allison Leonard

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

There is limited research done on the relationship between the program utilization at a campus wellness facility and the symptoms of depression in college freshmen. College students have been found to have a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms than the general population, possibly due to the stressors college life can add. Studies have been done on the effects of physical activity as an intervention for depression as well as on the benefits of campus wellness facilities; however, there have been few studies that look at both campus recreation and depression. The author’s purpose for this study was to see if …

Ultrasound Measured Flexor Muscle Thickness In The Forearms Of Rock Climbers, Michael Marsala

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

PURPOSE: To examine differences in the forearms of rock climbers using ultrasound to measure the muscle thickness of the finger flexors. METHODS: A total of 33 participants were recruited, 22 climbers (22.23 years; 68% male) and 11 controls (21.8; 55% male). Climbers provided self-reported ratings of their climbing ability, skill level, and preferred mode of climbing (e.g. sport climbing vs. bouldering). Anthropometric measures, including body fat percentage, were measured in all participants. Ultrasound measurements were taken with the participant lying on their back on a padded table with their dominant hand supinated. Muscle thickness measurements were taken at the forearm …

Coaches' Impact On Youth Athletes' Intentions To Continue Sport Participation: The Mediational Influence Of The Coach-Athlete Relationship, Meredith M. Wekesser

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Approximately 60 million youth participate in sports each year, however about 70% of these youth athletes drop out of sport by age 13 despite the numerous positive benefits of sport participation (National Alliance for Youth Sports, 2016; National Council for Youth Sports, 2008). Self-determination theory is a framework that has been utilized to investigate athletes’ motivations for behaviors including sport persistence and suggests that the coach can be an influence on such motivations (Rocchi, Pelletier, & Desmarais, 2017; Ryan & Deci, 2000). Coach-athlete relationship quality and interpersonal coaching behaviors that emphasize the satisfaction of basic needs have been found to …

Social Media And The Effect On Social Comparison, Recovery, And Motivation Measures In High-Intensity Functional Fitness Athletes (Hift), Mia D. Hannah

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The use of social media in high-intensity functional fitness (HIFT) athletes facilitated social comparisons that affected recovery and motivation. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to use social comparison theory to investigate the impact that short workout videos had on heart rate (HR), heart rate recovery (HRR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), perceived recovery status (PRS) and time to completion. Methods:Thirty-three individuals who identified as HIFT athletes participated in this study (age: 30.45 years ± 6.59, height: 169.41cm ± 8.69, weight: 73.07 kg ± 13.65). The participants were made up of 57.6% (n=19) female and 42.4% (n=14). Participants were …

The Relationship Between The Nfl Scouting Combine And Game Performance Over A Five Year Period, Jordan Cook

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine offers good face validity however, there has been doubt on the ability of the NFL Combine to predict future success of athletes in relation to in game performance (i.e., predictive validity). This study analyzed the NFL Combine data of 1537 college football players who participated in the Combine between 2013 and 2017 and their subsequent year’s performance in the NFL. The measures used from the Combine were the six different measures of athletic performance; 40-yard dash, vertical jump (VJ), broad jump, shuttle run (PRO), 3-cone drill, and bench press (BP). The measure of …

Physiological Profile Of Rural Structural Firefighters In Southeast Georgia, Emily Langford

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Many occupational tasks associated with firefighting require a great deal of cardiovascular and muscular demands. However, it is often noted that firefighters throughout the country are not meeting the fitness levels required of the profession. As a result, the proportion of on-duty injury and cardiac death is greater than the general population or similar service professions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to provide an extensive physiological profile of rural firefighters in southeast Georgia. Methods: Forty firefighters from one department in southeast Georgia underwent a comprehensive health screening, measuring anthropometrics (i.e., height, weight, waist and hip circumference), body …

Player-Coach Perceptions Of Internal Load, Exertion, And Recovery In Collegiate Male Soccer Players, Michelle L. Eisenman

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Periodization of athlete training load to improve performance and maximize recovery, while reducing injuries and overtraining, is essential in team sports. Understanding internal load responses and monitoring athlete exertion and recovery can help coaches during a competitive season. Recovery Status (PRS) and Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) are two subjective scales used to help quantify training load and recovery. These scales are more useful if there is an agreement between coaches (C) and players (P) assessment of intensity and recovery. PURPOSE: To assess subjective measures (PRS and RPE scores) from P and C during a 13-week competitive soccer season. Furthermore, …

Differences In Lower Body Strength, Power Between Genders, Shonterious D. Williams

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

INTRODUCTION: Athletic individuals have many characteristics, which make them more elite than the average individual. When determining an individual’s physical fitness level, strength, power, and agility are commonly examined. When measuring strength, power, and agility in elite athletes the scores are compared to some portion of body composition such as muscle cross-sectional area and fat-free mass. When looking at the same factors in recreationally trained individuals the research mostly normalized to body weight. PURPOSE: To examine the differences in lower body strength, power, and agility in male and female recreationally trained individuals when normalized to body mass, fat-free mass, and …

Isolation, Athletic Identity, And Social Support: An Exploration Among Injured Collegiate Student-Athletes, Ally W. Claytor

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Season ending and career ending injuries make up a large portion of all injuries (Tirabassi et al., 2016). Among psychological consequences to these types of injuries, isolation is a social consequence that has been identified as occurring after injury (Gould et al., 1997). Isolation is related to loss of identity for an athlete (Mankand et al., 2009). Additionally, low levels of support have been shown to increase feelings of isolation in injured athletes (Mitchell et al., 2014). The purpose of the present study was to explore the experience of isolation as a psychological response to injury among athletes with career …

Mental Toughness As A Predictor For Pre-Season Depression And Anxiety Symptoms, And Changes Over The Course Of An Athletic Season, Colleen J. Bohannan

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Background: Mental toughness (MT) has been considered necessary for individuals to be successful in the athletic setting. A connection has been theorized between MT and mental health. Purpose: ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­The purpose was to investigate if MT could be utilized as a predictor of the presence of depression and/or anxiety symptoms. This study also explored if MT, and depression/anxiety symptoms change over the course of a competitive season. Methods: 43 individuals (19.42 ± 1.26 years) participating in a fall team sport from the same Division I University participated in the study. Data was captured during pre-season, high stakes, and end of season, …

Changes In Vertical Jump Components Utilizing The Myvert Device In Female Collegiate D-1 Volleyball Players, Samantha Modrick

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine daily and weekly variations in vertical jump (VJ) volume and VJ height over the course of a season for female collegiate division 1 volleyball players using Vert® technology. Sixteen volleyball player’s external load was monitored through jump count, average VJ height, number of VJs completed over 20-inches, and the ratio of VJ height relative to maximum tested VJ height. The VJ parameters were compared between practices and games, and between the various position groups (outside hitters, middle blockers, libero/defensive specialist, setters). A large increase in jump count observed during pre-season, peaked at …

Effects Of Four Years Of Collegiate Sport Participation On Non-Contact, Contact, And Collision Athletes During Gait, Kristen L. Neitz

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

College athletes are often exposed to many training sessions, stresses, and injuries throughout their collegiate career. They often experience pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion and many other feelings following participation.. Much research has focused on the acute effects of collegiate athletics, but the long term effect has not been well studied. Sports are often divided into groups based on the nature of play; the three main groups are non-contact, contact, and collision sports. Differences have not been observed between the three sport groups and their ability to complete activities of daily living such as walking following four years …