Kinesiology Commons^™

Associations Between Gad-7 And Phq-9 Scores And Willingness To Seek Treatment, Josephine Shaw

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

In recent years, mental health concerns among college students have increased significantly. This study aims to analyze data on student willingness and frequency to seek counseling services, such as UNLV CAPS (Student Counseling and Psychological Services), and the appeal of utilizing alternative interventions such as exercise and meditation. This study collected data from UNLV students, faculty, and staff through distribution of a scannable QR code. It included whether they were in therapy, the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, their respective functional impairment questions, and willingness to consider therapy alternatives. Based on respondents’ answers to the PHQ-9, the highest proportion peaked at 36% …

Assessing How Early Vs. Late Exercise Influences Whole Body Glucose Tolerance And Insulin Signaling Pathways In Quadriceps During Social Jetlag, Ariana Khzarjyan, Austin Cooper, Paula Martinez, Joshua Corpuz, Srushti Wagh, Elias Malek, Todd Schrubb

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

BACKGROUND: Circadian rhythms regulate our physiological and metabolic processes throughout a 24-hour cycle. Disruptions to this rhythm with modern lifestyles creates irregular patterns. One of the most common forms of circadian rhythm disruptions amongst humans happens during the weekends, when people tend to stay up later and sleep in later compared to weekdays. This phenomenon is referred to as social jetlag (SJL).

PURPOSE: To determine whether timed exercise (early vs. late) can reduce the negative effects of social jetlag in mice. More specifically, determining whether exercise conducted in the early or late active phase of mice will impact the effects …

Can Motivation And Self-Efficacy Predict A Law Enforcement Officer’S General And Job-Specific Fitness?, Robert G. Lockie, Maria M. Beitzel, Tyler Campana, Jennifer Kramer, Robin (Rob) Marc Orr, J. Jay Dawes, Joseph Dulla

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(8): 1393-1409, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/GEHB5425 Sedentary behaviors contribute to law enforcement officer fitness declines over a career. An officer’s motivation (desire to exercise) and self-efficacy (belief in ability to exercise) could affect whether they exercise and predict resulting fitness. Data from 60 officers (48 men, 12 women) were analyzed. Motivation (amotivation, external, introjected, identified, integrated, and intrinsic regulation) was measured via the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire. A 6-item questionnaire assessed coping (confidence in exercising under challenging conditions) and scheduling (confidence in scheduling exercise) self-efficacy. General fitness variables included sit-and-reach, grip strength, 60-s push-ups, 60-s sit-ups, …

Assessing Aerobic And Anaerobic Thresholds With Emphasis On Isocapnic Buffering In Endurance Runners, Yahya Mushaflar Fathi, Seyed Houtan Shahidi Dr., Prof. Dr. Mohamed Twfeq Othman Alhusaen Aga

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(5): 1381-1392, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/IYED1370 Accurate determination of metabolic thresholds is essential for designing effective endurance training. This study aimed to apply a multi-visit Step–Ramp–Step (SRS) protocol to identify aerobic (VT1) and anaerobic (VT2/RCP) thresholds in trained endurance runners, with a particular focus on delineating the isocapnic buffering region—the ventilatory phase between VT1 and VT2 where carbon dioxide (PetCO₂) remains stable despite rising ventilation. Twelve trained male runners (mean age: 27.1 ± 1.9 years; VO₂max: 60.5 ± 2.1 ml·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) completed the SRS protocol across separate lab visits. Each session included a 4-minute moderate-intensity phase, a progressive …

Countermovement Jump Force Plate Metrics As Neuromuscular Indicators For Seasonal Micro-Adaptations And Hitting Performance Variability In Professional Baseball, Brandon Russell Pentheny

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This dissertation explored the use of countermovement jump (CMJ) force plate metrics as indicators of neuromuscular status and their relationship to hitting performance variability across a competitive season in professional baseball. Although there is an increase in the integration of sports science and performance analytics in professional sports, a significant gap remains in longitudinal, in-season monitoring models that connect neuromuscular adaptations to hitting-specific outputs, such as bat velocity and ball exit velocity (BEV). This study examined lower-body force production as measured by uniaxial bilateral force plates and how they interact with hitting output task demands over time. Using a longitudinal …

The Effects Of Visual And Audio Secondary Cognitive Tasks During Landing: A Statistical Parametric Mapping Analysis Of Hip And Knee Biomechanics, Hillary Nguyen, Amber Lyle, Kevin Tran, Dominic Espinoza, Gerwyn Hughes

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(7): 1367-1380, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/KGHI3479 ACL injuries often occur when athletes perform cognitive tasks while performing a landing/cutting movement. This study investigated the effects of secondary cognitive tasks on hip and knee biomechanics during single limb landing. Sixteen recreational athletes (10 females and 6 males, age: 21.6 ± 2.5 years, mass: 65.2 ± 8.9 kg, height 1.66 ± 0.07 m) performed landings on their dominant limb as a single task and while simultaneously performing secondary cognitive tasks (mental arithmetic) provided through audio and visual means. Hip and knee joint angles and moments were calculated in all …

Single Vs. Whole Muscle Group Assessments: Does The Specific Muscle Influence Its Association With Performance?, Carina M. Velasquez, Kealey J. Wohlgemuth, Mckenzie M. Hare, Kathryn E. Southall, Jacob A. Mota

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology Volume 6: Issue 1, Article 11, 2025. Biometric Muscle size and echo intensity are thought to influence muscle function. Unfortunately, previous works often will examine a single muscle from a group of agonists as a metric of whole muscle performance. This approach may not always be the most appropriate to assess performance outcomes. The purpose of the study was to 1) quantify the association of muscle size and echo intensity with vertical jump performance (VJ), 2) Compare the associations between individual and whole muscle group size and echo intensity, 3) determine whether single or …

Treadmill Exercise And Indoor Cycling: Self-Selected Intensity, Perceived Enjoyment, And Importance Of Preference For Activity Mode, Ernst A. Hansen, Jonathan Ipsen, Jari Schneider, Simon Petersen, Alexander Petersen, Marianne Lindahl

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(5): 1344-1354, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/NCPI2090 For advancement of public health through exercise, exercise intensity and enjoyment are important. We aimed at testing whether self-selected exercise intensity was higher during treadmill exercise than during indoor cycling. Secondly, the enjoyment associated with the two activities was evaluated. Thirdly, in a person-centered analysis, taking into account the participants’ preference for mode of activity, we assessed whether preference for one of the activity modes was accompanied by greater intensity. Healthy adults (n=21) participated in the repeated measures crossover-designed study. They performed 16-min bouts of treadmill exercise and indoor cycling at …

Acute Physiological Responses To Rope Climbing Ergometer High-Intensity Interval Training In Males And Females, Hannah K. Eberhardt, Matthew F. Brisebois, Matthew A. Yeomans, Patrick G. Saracino

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(3): 1355-1366, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/EAFV3707 This study aimed to assess the acute physiological responses to a single bout of rope climbing high-intensity interval training (RC-HIIT) and compare the responses between sexes as no data currently exists on this training modality. Following an overnight fast, body composition was assessed, and resting measurements were recorded. Participants then completed an exercise protocol consisting of 10 rounds of maximal effort rope climbing using a 30:60 second work:rest ratio. Gas analysis and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously. Blood lactate (BLa) was measured following the final work interval. Participants remained seated …

Hydration Strategies In Ultra-Endurance Running: A Narrative Review Of Programmed Versus Thirst-Driven Approaches, Shawn C. Wierick, Rosie I. Perez, Xiujing Zhao, Brendon P. Mcdermott

Health, Human Performance and Recreation Faculty Publications and Presentations

Background/Objectives: Ultra-endurance running (UER) presents unique hydration challenges due to prolonged duration, variable terrain, environmental extremes, and gastrointestinal limitations. Athletes often use either programmed fluid intake (PFI), which prescribes fluid volumes based on estimated sweat rate, or thirst-driven fluid intake (TDFI), which relies on internal cues. This review examines the effectiveness and limitations of each strategy in the context of UER performance and safety. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using a targeted selection of peer-reviewed studies. Both laboratory- and field-based research were included to evaluate the physiological rationale, practical feasibility, and outcomes associated with PFI and TDFI. A total …

Differences In Dieting Behavior In Athletic Trainers, Emily Madrak, Ki L. Cole, Bridget M. Miller, Jennifer L. Volberding

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Introduction: Athletic trainers (ATs) have a foundational knowledge in many facets of health, including optimization of wellness. Though ATs may be actively trying to improve their own health, societal pressure can have a large impact on behavior. The purpose of this study was to identify differences between gender and years-certified in diet patterns in ATs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 2500 National Athletic Training Association members, It included a demographics section and five-item researcher-created questions regarding diet. Chi-square tests of independence were used to determine the relationship. Results: Significance was determined for gender and question 2, “Have …

Comparing Lower Extremity Kinematics Using Trazer And Inertial Motion Capture Systems, Gabriella Juoza-Clark Spt, Joellen Carter Spt, Nikki Stam Spt, Kevin Robinson Pt, Dsc, Ocs

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Introduction: This study assessed the validity of a non-immersive body motion tracking system (TRAZER) as an alternative to using Inertial Measurement Units (IMU)-based motion capture (MyoMotion) for lower extremity kinematic analysis. Methods: Twenty healthy participants (10 females, 10 males) with a mean age of 24.03 years (range: 20-33 years) and a mean BMI of 25.15 kg/m² (range: 18.45-32.23 kg/m²) performed double and single-leg squats. Data Analysis: Kinematic data from TRAZER and MyoMotion IMUs were compared using a mixed two-way ANOVA. Results: No significant differences were observed in knee flexion data across all movements (p > 0.05) and knee abduction during the …

Parameters Of Suspension Training On Core Performance: A Critically Appraised Topic, Sara Stiltner, Andrea Cripps

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Clinical Scenario: The core is a functional unit connecting the upper and lower extremities consisting of abdominal, back, and hip musculature. A highly functional core is essential within the kinetic chain and aids in injury prevention and rehabilitation. Traditional means of core stability training are performed on a stable surface. An emerging mode of core training is suspension training (ST), which utilizes a movement paired with instability to challenge the core stabilizers and increase motor unit recruitment.The purpose of suspension training is to increase muscle activation in core stabilizer’s, while mimicking functional movements.It was the purpose of this research to …

Using External Visual Feedback Techniques To Improve Chronic Ankle Instability: A Critically Appraised Topic, Paxtyn Watkins, Bradlee Wells, Aric J. Warren

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Introduction: Lateral ankle sprains (LAS) are among the most common musculoskeletal injury in physically active populations posing a substantial health burden. Individuals who sustain ankle sprains often have a diminished quality of life with prolonged symptoms, decreased levels of physical activity, and the propensity to develop chronic ankle instability (CAI). It is estimated that up to 40% of people who sustain an initial lateral ankle sprain will develop CAI. Many therapeutic interventions exist to help alleviate symptoms and the feeling of “giving out.” This critically appraised topic will examine multiple interventions that involve using external visual feedback methods to improve …

The Impact Of Athletic Retirement On Anxiety In Elite Athletes, A Critically Appraised Topic, Jordan Gorham, Emily Madrak

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Though there is growing interest in athletic mental health, this interest appears to diminish significantly once an athlete enters athletic retirement. The abrupt transition can precipitate mental health struggles, exacerbated by the lack of adequate preparation for lifestyle after retirement and the attachment of athletic identity to their sport. Consequently, these circumstances may increase symptoms associated with poor mental health, with a specific focus on anxiety. As the athlete retires and moves into different stages of life, research notes that athletes with stronger athletic identities have poorer mental health than those who had weaker athletic identity^. While the scrutiny …

Comparing Position Specific Gps Normative Data In Professional Female Club Soccer, Andy Seraphin, Christi Edson, Cory Price, Barrett Jones, Amanda Jagielo, Justin Mullner

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Objective: To establish normative ranges in common performance tests for professional women’s club soccer. Setting:1^st division professional women’s soccer club in the United States

Participants: Twenty-eight healthy professional women’s soccer players (Age: 27.8 ± 5.1 years; Body Mass: 66.2 ± 6.7 kg). Main Outcome Measures: Season GPS data was analyzed and metrics included minutes, total distance, high speed running, total accelerations, total decelerations, and maximum speed. Statistical analysis was performed to determine differences between positions. Results: Statistically significant differences were found across all metrics in comparison to overall mean. Differences in each metric may be due to a …

The Effect Of High-Intensity Interval Training On Visceral Adipose Tissue In Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review, Ivan D. Delgado, Julio C. Delgado, Ryan D. Burns

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(5): 1321-1333, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/YEUF2363 Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is a significant contributor to insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The effectiveness of time-efficient high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in reducing VAT has not been reviewed. A systematic search conducted on PubMed, Embase, and SPORTDiscus up to April 2025 for randomized controlled trials that compared HIIT with non-exercise control and quantified VAT using imaging identified five trials (n = 138) that met inclusion criteria. Risk of bias was assessed using a nine-item modified PEDro scale. Four trials reported significant reductions in VAT after 8-12 weeks of …

Effects Of A Personalized Fitness Program Provided By Undergraduate Exercise Science Students On Attitudes Toward Exercise, Mental Health, And Quality Of Life, Kris M. Cleveland, Jacob Fike, Scott Peterson

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(4): 1334-1343, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/IYNS6043 Personalized fitness training is designed to improve physical health and fitness, but may also promote mental health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there are positive psychological outcomes for clients participating in a community-based personalized fitness program led by undergraduate Exercise Science students. A total of 44 participants completed a battery of psychological scales both before and after participation in a 12-week university-sponsored personalized fitness training program. Psychological measures included the Exercise Attitudes Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale for Exercise, Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, Health Status Questionnaire, …

The Effects Of Caffeine And Resistance Exercise On Pulse Wave Reflection In Resistance-Trained Women, Sarah G. Kearney, Therese M. Smith, Meredith C. Paskert Joplin, Erica Marshall, Jason C. Parks, Stacie M. Humm, Michelle A. Kern, J. Derek Kingsley

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(6): 1310-1320, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/RWDY4284 Caffeine, alone or in conjunction with an acute bout of resistance exercise (RE), increases measures of pulse wave reflection (PWR), with most studies focusing on men. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate caffeine’s effects on measures of PWR alone and following an acute bout of RE in young, healthy, resistance-trained women. Eleven resistance-trained women completed an acute bout of RE using free-weights with repetitions to failure for squat and bench press with caffeine (4mg/kg) and a placebo. Measures of PWR were measured at Rest, 50 minutes following ingestion …

Two-Year Skeletal Adaptations In Development And National Level Female Figure Skaters, Chelsea Wong, Leigh Gabel, Erik Groves, Kelly Quipp, Steven Boyd, Lauren Burt

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(3): 1297-1309, 2025. https://doi.org/10.70252/ZSKN7069 Figure skaters typically have higher bone mineral density (BMD) than the general population. However, the current literature is limited to cross-sectional studies. The objective of this study was to determine two-year changes in volumetric BMD, bone microarchitecture, and estimated bone strength in elite national and development level Canadian figure skaters. Eleven female figure skaters aged 14+ years were recruited for this longitudinal study. Measurements occurred annually. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scans of the radius and tibia underwent three-dimensional image registration. Total (Tt), cortical (Ct) and trabecular (Tb) volumetric BMD …