Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre

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Screening protocols for pointe readiness in young adolescent female dance students: a Delphi study
(SAGE, 2025-12-31) Hough-Coles, Kelly; Kolokythas, Nico; Wyon, Matthew; School of Sport, Faculty of Education, Health, and Wellbeing
Introduction: There is an increased injury risk during pointe training when dance students are not physically or technically prepared. The objective of this study was to find consensus between dance experts pertaining to the most reliable screening protocols when determining pointe readiness in young adolescent female dance students. Methods: Dance experts, 10+ years of professional dance (pointe) experience/teaching pointe experience/clinician to dancers, were recruited through multiple dance teacher/science groups on social media. The Delphi method was utilised via Online Surveys and distributed in rounds until consensus was found. Questions were created, and subsequent rounds were devised based on analysed data from the previous round. Descriptive and thematic analysis was used to collate, rank, and analyse data. Consensus was determined at 60% agreement between the dance experts’ answers. Results and Discussion: Fifteen dance experts completed Round 3 with 80% consensus. The most important physical attributes were ankle alignment, pelvic stability, ankle strength, ankle stability, and lower limb alignment. Screening measures consisted of medical history, teacher assessment, heel raise test, single leg plié, plantarflexion. Functional skills tests were heel raise test, single leg sauté, holding passé relevé on demi-pointe, balance, pencil test. All agreed that teacher assessment is more reliable than a test battery. Overall, responses corresponded with statistically significant evaluators yet were not conclusive. Conclusion: Contradictory responses meant providing reliable outcomes to the objectives was challenging. Further research projects are needed to indicate any association between testing and teacher assessment for pointe readiness.
Predicting VO2max Using Lung Function and Three-Dimensional (3D) Allometry Provides New Insights into the Allometric Cascade (M0.75)
(Springer Nature, 2025-04-13) Nevill, Alan M.; Wyon, Matthew; Myers, Jonathan; Harber, Matthew P.; Arena, Ross; Myers, Tony D.; Kaminsky, Leonard A.; Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton
Background Using directly measured cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e. VO2max) in epidemiological/population studies is rare due to practicality issues. As such, predicting VO2max is an attractive alternative. Most equations that predict VO2max adopt additive rather than multiplicative models despite evidence that the latter provides superior fits and more biologically interpretable models. Furthermore, incorporating some but not all confounding variables may lead to inflated mass exponents (∝ M0.75) as in the allometric cascade. Objective Hence, the purpose of the current study was to develop multiplicative, allometric models to predict VO2max incorporating most well-known, but some less well-known confounding variables (FVC, forced vital capacity; FEV1, forced expiratory volume in 1 s) that might provide a more dimensionally valid model (∝ M2/3) originally proposed by Astrand and Rodahl. Methods We adopted the following three-dimensional multiplicative allometric model for VO2max (l⋅min−1) = Mk1·HTk2·WCk3·exp(a + b·age + c·age2 + d·%fat)·ε, (M, body mass; HT, height; WC, waist circumference; %fat, percentage body fat). Model comparisons (goodness-of-fit) between the allometric and equivalent additive models was assessed using the Akaike information criterion plus residual diagnostics. Note that the intercept term ‘a’ was allowed to vary for categorical fixed factors such as sex and physical inactivity. Results Analyses revealed that significant predictors of VO2max were physical inactivity, M, WC, age2, %fat, plus FVC, FEV1. The body-mass exponent was k1 = 0.695 (M0.695), approximately∝M2/3. However, the calculated effect-sizes identified age2 and physical inactivity, not mass, as the strongest predictors of VO2max. The quality-of-fit of the allometric models were superior to equivalent additive models. Conclusions Results provide compelling evidence that multiplicative allometric models incorporating FVC and FEV1 are dimensionally and theoretically superior at predicting VO2max(l⋅min−1) compared with additive models. If FVC and FEV1 are unavailable, a satisfactory model was obtained simply by using HT as a surrogate.
Low muscle mass and treatment tolerance in patients with upper gastrointestinal cancer: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
(Wiley, 2025-02-17) Stanhope, Edward; Thomsen, Simon N.; Turner, J.E.; Fairman, Ciaran M.; Lahart, Ian
ABSTRACT Background Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers carry notable mortality risks. While systemic therapies are vital for their management, they are often hindered by adverse events (AE), which can compromise their effectiveness. The presence of low skeletal muscle mass (LSMM) may be linked with the prevalence of AE and could potentially undermine treatment tolerance by impacting drug metabolism. The primary objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the association between LSMM and the risk of grades 3 and 4 AE and treatment discontinuation. Methods Studies investigating the association between skeletal muscle mass and AE or treatment tolerability in adult patients diagnosed with upper GI cancer scheduled to undergo systemic treatment were eligible. The primary outcomes were grades 3 and 4 AE and treatment discontinuations. Four electronic databases were systematically searched with no date restrictions on 10 October 2022. Data were analysed via random-effects meta-analyses, and the risk of bias was assessed using the risk of bias in non-randomised studies—of exposure (ROBINS-E) appraisal tool. Results We identified 50 eligible publications from 49 studies. Our meta-analyses revealed evidence of a higher risk of grades 3 and 4 AE (RR 1.44, 95% CI 1.23–1.68, N = 13) and treatment discontinuation (RR 2.39, 95% CI 1.87–3.07, N = 11) in LSMM versus non-LSMM. Secondary analyses revealed an increased risk of fatigue, febrile neutropenia, intestinal pneumonia, stomatitis and thrombocytopenia in LSMM. However, 92% of studies assessing grades 3 and 4 AE and 73% of studies examining treatment discontinuation had a very high risk of bias. Conclusions LSMM in patients with upper GI cancer is associated with a higher risk of grades 3 and 4 AE and the discontinuation of systemic cancer treatment. The high risk of bias should be considered in the interpretation of these findings. Further evaluation of the association between LSMM and treatment tolerability in confirmatory, prospective studies is needed.
The effects of 11+dance on physiological parameters in adolescent ballet dancers : a randomised controlled equivalence trial
(SAGE, 2024-11-29) Kolokythas, Nico; Metsios, George S.; Galloway, Shaun; Allen, Nick; Wyon, Matthew
Abstract Introduction: The use of neuromuscular interventions in sports induce meaningful motor performance in strength, sprint and power. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the “11+ Dance” exercise program versus normal training (control) on possible adaptations in power, lower-body strength, and inter-limb asymmetry in adolescent ballet dancers. Study Design: Prospective randomised controlled trial Methods Dancers (n= 76) from a pre-professional ballet school volunteered for this study. Data from the two trials (pilot and main trials) were combined to protect the results from possible learning effect of the intervention. Participants were randomly assigned to either the 11+ Dance intervention (n=38) or Control (n=38). All Participants completed at least 21 sessions over 7-9 weeks. The 11+Dance intervention consisted of neuromuscular-based exercises, whereas the Control group carried out their normal routine. Baseline and post intervention outcome measures included countermovement jump (CMJ), reactive strength index (RSI), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), and inter-limb asymmetry (ASYM). Results Non-statistically significant improvements were noted for both 11+Dance and control groups across outcome measures; CMJ F(1, 66)=3.52, p=.065, � " != .051 (14% vs 8%), RSI F(1, 65)=1.02, p=.316, �" != .015 (6% vs 13%), and IMTP F(1,67)=1.7, p=.197, �" !=.025 (23% vs 18%). ASYM (F(1, 63)=0.109, p=.743, �" !=.002) (24% vs 15%). No statistically significant interaction for adherence was revealed for all the parameters. Conclusion The 11+Dance intervention elicited similar physiological adaptations as the control group. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the efficacy of the 11+Dance on injury incidence and severity as current evidence suggests prophylactic programs such as the 11+Dance have an effect on injury prevention.
The effects of pilates mat classes on abdominal core control and dance performance: a pilot study
(Taylor & Francis, 2024-06-20) Bergeron, Christine S.; Smith, Tina; Welsh, Tom; Wyon, Matthew
Dancers trained in classical ballet and modern forms are taught to use their core strength to execute movements with proper alignment. Pilates is an exercise regimen used by dancers to improve muscle conditioning, flexibility, and coordination. However, currently, there is limited research on the impact of Pilates for dancers which support these claims. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the effectiveness of a Pilates mat program during dance performance. Dancers (n = 3) participated in a ten-week study consisting of pre- and post-testing and eight weeks of a Pilates mat program. Pre- and post-test comparisons in the plank strength test showed a statistically significant improvement for all three dancers. Survey results indicate dancers perceived an overall improvement in awareness and engagement of the core during dance class. Three independent dance instructors also saw an improvement in the dancers’ alignment and core strength throughout the eight-week study.
Can dance improve turning in people with Parkinson’s Disease?
(J.Michael Ryan Publishing Inc., 2024-04-08) Haas, Aline Nogueira; Smith, Tina; Peyré-Tartaruga, Leonardo Alexandre; Fortes, Marlene Brito; Nagy, Fruzsina; Delabary, Marcela dos Santos; Koutedakis, Yiannis; Wyon, Matthew; Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre and School of Performing Arts, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, UK
Objective: To investigate the effects of a dance intervention on selected functional parameters during the 180° turning phase of the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test in people with Parkinson’s Disease (PwPD). Methods: Fifteen adults clinically diagnosed with idiopathic PD were allocated into dance intervention (DIG; n = 7 ; age 73 ± 2 years) and control (CG; n = 8; age 64 ± 5 years) groups. The dance intervention lasted for 3 months (1 hour, twice a week). At baseline, all participants completed the Unified PD Rating Scale–part III, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form, and the Hoehn & Yahr scale. Pre- and post-intervention, the primary outcomes were measured (number of steps and time to complete the 180° turning phase of the TUG test) at 2 speeds (comfortable walking and as quickly and safely speed) while using the Xsens® 3D motion suit. The secondary outcome (girdle dissociation) was assessed by calculating the difference between pelvis and affected shoulder orientation in the transverse plane (dissociation angles) at each data point during the TUG test’s 180° turning phase. Results: At participant’s comfortable walking speed, the functionality during the 180° turning remained unaffected following the dance intervention. However, at participant’s fast speed, the dance intervention group significantly reduced the number of steps with a large effect size, and the total time taken to complete the 180° turning with a medium effect size. Post-intervention, most participants in the dance intervention group reduced the affected shoulder and pelvic girdle dissociation and turned more “en bloc.” Conclusion: Dance can improve selected functional parameters during the 180° turning at fast speed in PwPD. The current results should be considered in rehabilitation programs.
Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, reliability and validity of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the ‘Fit to Dance?’ survey
(Elsevier, 2024-03-27) Panosso, Isabela; Picon, Andreja; Figueiredo, Valeria; Gomes, Vitória; Sanchez, Erin; Wyon, Matthew; Haas, Aline Nogueira; Bittar, Adriano
Background: The ‘Fit to Dance?’ survey has been used in a number of studies to understand the health and wellbeing of dancers. These data have not been collected in Brazil as there is no validated questionnaire available in Brazilian Portuguese, culturally validated in Brazil with a scope as broad and comprehensive as that of ‘Fit to Dance?’. Objective: Translate into Brazilian Portuguese and culturally validate the questionnaire ‘Fit to Dance?’ in Brazil. Methods: This was a validity and reliability study of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the ‘Fit to Dance?’ Survey. The stages of the research were: translation into the target language (Brazilian Portuguese), translation synthesis, translation validation and cross-cultural adaptation by a committee of experts in Dance Medicine and Science (DMS), reverse translation into English, pilot study (test/retest), and final version of the questionnaire. Results: The questionnaire was applied to 21 dancers of different dance genres, with an age average of 25 ± 7.0 years. Cronbach's alpha (0.705), ICC (0.984) and Kappa (0.794) results reached adequate values. Conclusion: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the questionnaire ‘Fit to Dance?’ is effective, has adequate levels of validity and reliability, and can be used to report injuries and aspects of health and well-being of Brazilian dancers.
The effects of dance interventions on physical function and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults: A systematic review
(Public Library of Science, 2024-04-19) Lu, Jingting; Abd Rahman, Nur Athirah; Wyon, Matthew; Shaharudin, Shazlin
Background: Fundamental physical functions such as postural control and balance are vital in preserving everyday life, affecting an individual’s quality of life. Dance is a physical activity that offers health advantages across various life stages. Nevertheless, the effects of dance interventions on physical function, postural control, and quality of life among older adults have remained underexplored. The review aimed to examine the strength of evidence for dance interventions on physical function and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults. Methods: A systematic review was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline), focusing on studies involving more than four weeks of dance interventions. MeSH terms [dance or dance intervention or dance rehabilitation or dance movement] and [motor function or functional capacity or postural control or functional mobility or mobility or postural balance or balance or flexibility or gait] and [well-being or quality of life or life satisfaction] were utilized in the search. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023422857). Included studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias. Results: The search revealed 885 studies, and 16 met the inclusion criteria. The effects of various dance genres on physical functions and quality of life were compared. Most studies showed that dance intervention improved physical function, balance, postural control and quality of life. Dance intervention showed a high level of adherence compared to physiotherapy, self-care, conventional therapy, and aerobic and resistance exercise. Conclusion: In terms of improving physical function and quality of life, structured dance is a secure and relatively effective alternative to exercise. Note the effect of movement selection and intensity in the dance interventions. Dance with music may increase participants’ interest, encouraging more physical activity among middle-aged and older adults.
Relative energy deficiency in dance (RED-D): a consensus method approach to REDs in dance
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2024-03-07) Allen, Nick; Kelley, Shane; Lanfear, Martin; Mountjoy, Margo; Reynolds, Andy; Clarke, Richard; Wyon, Matthew; Wolman, Roger
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) is a potentially severe, challenging, broad-spectrum syndrome with potential negative health and performance outcomes. The numerous research publications and International Olympic Committee consensus statements relating to REDs testify to the challenges faced in early identification or screening, diagnosis, and management. Like sport, dance, in its simplest form, can be identified as an activity resulting in physiological energy demands and, as such, requires appropriate energy availability concerning energy expenditures. However, the specificity of physiological and psychological demands in dance must be considered when considering REDs. An environment where physical activity can exceed 30 hours per week and where culture may instil a value that thinness is required puts dancers at increased risk for REDs. The purpose of this study was to provide dance specific guidance dance on this complex condition. A RAND/UCLA Delphi Panel method with nominal group technique was used to review the literature from REDs to evaluate how it may relate to dance. In addition to the EP, which was assembled from a multidisciplinary background with expertise in REDs and multiple genres of dance, six focus groups were commissioned. Four of the focus groups were drawn from the EP members and two additional focus groups formed by dancers and artistic leaders. These panels were used to guide the development of a RED-D Diagnosis Pathway, Management Plan and Risk stratification and Return to Dance Pathway. The dance specific pathways are designed to be a practical tool for guiding and supporting clinicians managing RED-D. Furthermore, this paper represents an important focus of this area in dance and serves to stimulate discussion and further research within the sector.
A peer-led walking intervention for adolescent girls (the WISH study): a cluster-randomised controlled trial
(Elsevier, 2023-11-23) Murphy, Marie H.; O'Kane, S. Maria; Carlin, Angela; Lahart, Ian; Doherty, Leanne C.; Jago, Russell; McDermott, Gary; Faulkner, Maria; Gallagher, Alison M.; Centre for Exercise Medicine, Physical Activity and Health, Sports and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK; Physical Activity for Health Research Centre (PHARC), Institute for Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
BACKGROUND: Adolescent girls in the UK and Ireland fail to meet physical activity (PA) guidelines. PA behaviours track from childhood into adulthood. The effects of walking interventions on adult health are known; however, the potential of walking to promote PA in adolescents is less known. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a novel, school-based walking intervention aimed at increasing PA levels of adolescent girls. METHODS: In this cluster-randomised controlled trial, female pupils aged 12-14 years were recruited from 18 (mixed or single-sex) schools across the border region of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Schools were randomly assigned to either the control group (usual physical activity; n=9) or the intervention group (n=9) by independent faculty staff using an online randomisation tool (randomization.com). In intervention schools, female pupils aged 15-18 years were trained as walk leaders and led the younger pupils in 10-15 min walks before school, at break, and at lunchtime. Walks were in school grounds and pupils were encouraged to join as many walks as possible. The intervention was delivered for a full school year excluding holidays (for a total of 18-21 weeks). Accelerometers measured PA, and the primary outcome was total PA (counts per minute [cpm]). Ethics approval was granted by Ulster University Research Ethics Committee and written informed consent (parent or guardian) and assent (pupils) was obtained. This study is registered with the ISRCTN Registry, 12847782. FINDINGS: The study took place from Sept 1, 2021, to May 31, 2023. In total, 589 pupils were recruited (n=286 in intervention group; n=303 in control group). Median moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) at baseline was 36·1 min/day (IQR 23·0) for the intervention group and 35·3 min/day (19·8) for the control group. Only 37 (15%) girls in the intervention group and 29 (10%) girls in the control group met PA guidelines (60 min/day of MVPA). The mean total PA after intervention was 676 cpm (SD 18·7) for the intervention group and 710 cpm (SD 17·7) for the control group. Post-intervention total PA did not differ between groups when adjusted for age, body-mass index, z-scores, and baseline PA (mean difference -33·5, 95% CI -21·2 to 88·1; p=0·213). INTERPRETATION: Scaling up PA interventions is challenging. Despite a promising feasibility study, the results of this fully powered trial indicate that in this context, the walking programme did not increase PA. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, school environments have changed, and although pupils enjoyed the programme, attendance at walks was low. There is a need to better understand the implementation of interventions such as this within schools. FUNDING: Cross-border Healthcare Intervention Trials in Ireland Network (CHITIN).
The Influence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and other related factors upon health-related quality of life in women of reproductive age: a case-control study
(Taylor & Francis, 2024-01-09) Kite, Chris; Lahart, Ian; Randeva, Harpal S.; Kyrou, Ioannis; Brown, James E. P.
This study aimed to assess the impact of a polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis and other factors on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women of reproductive age. Online questionnaires were completed and study groups compared. Potential causal relationships were evaluated using path analysis. Analyses revealed that a PCOS diagnosis alongside BMI had the largest effect on HRQoL. Higher levels of physical activity (PA) were not associated with greater HRQoL, and PA was not directly affected by any other outcome. However, reduced self-esteem was identified as a key factor in the promotion of physical and mental health.
‘Including us, talking to us and creating a safe environment’—youth patient and public involvement and the Walking In ScHools Study (WISH): lessons learned
(Wiley, 2023-10-06) Gallagher, Alison M.; O'Kane, S. Maria; Doherty, Leanne C.; Faulkner, Maria; McDermott, Gary; Jago, Russell; Lahart, Ian; Murphy, Marie H.; Carlin, Angela
Background: Young people have the right to be informed and consulted about decisions affecting their lives. Patient and public involvement (PPI) ensures that research is carried out ‘with’ or ‘by’ young people rather than ‘to’, ‘about’ or ‘for’ them. The aim of this paper is to outline how youth PPI can be embedded within a physical activity intervention, reflect on the impact of PPI and provide recommendations for future PPI in a similar context. Methods: A Youth Advisory Group (YAG) was set up within the Walking In ScHools (WISH) Study to involve adolescent girls in the delivery, implementation and dissemination of a physical activity intervention targeted at adolescents. Schools invited pupils aged 12–14 years and 15–18 years to YAG meetings (n3, from 2019 to 2023). Participative methods were used to inform recruitment strategies and data collection methods for the WISH Study. Results: Across the three YAG meetings, n51 pupils from n8 schools were involved. Pupils enjoyed the YAG meetings, felt that their feedback was valued and considered the meetings a good way to get young people involved in research. The YAG advised on specific issues and although measuring impact was not the primary aim of the YAG meetings, over the course of the study there were many examples of the impact of PPI. Recruitment targets for the WISH Study were exceeded, the attrition rate was low and pupils were engaged in data collection. Conclusion: Youth PPI is a developing field and there are few physical activity studies that report the PPI work undertaken. Within the WISH Study, three YAG meetings were held successfully, and the views of adolescent girls were central to the development of the study. Considering the specific issues that the YAG advised on (study recruitment, attrition and data collection), there was evidence of a positive impact of PPI. Patient or Public Contribution: Pupils from post-primary schools interested/participating in the WISH Study were invited to attend YAG meetings. YAG meetings were set up to consult adolescent girls on the delivery, implementation and dissemination of the WISH intervention.
Teaching professionalism during and posta pandemic to surgical trainees: A survey of the impact of a workshop on trainers and trainees
(Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 2023-10-31) Ashwood, Neil; Stanhope, Edward; Lahart, Ian; Dekker, Andrew; Hind, Jamie; Carmichael, Amtul Razzaq; University of Wolverhampton, Research Institute, Wulfruna St, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, United Kingdom.
Introduction: Focussed professionalism training improves surgical trainees’ communication, information gathering, and counselling skills. This study reviews the impact of a professionalism workshop for surgical trainees within a large trust in the United Kingdom developed during the pandemic to support the trainees and help them develop resilience and appropriate behaviours during the time of increased pressure. Methods: A workshop involving case-based discussions and reflections on professionalism was developed from the themes and methods of training noted to be effective on a literature search of Medline, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases carried out in May 2020. The impact of Covid on surgical trainees and educator’s professionalism training and the techniques of training preferred by trainees was evaluated by a survey of trainees and trainers after the intervention to evolve future training initiatives. During the workshop, a behavioural marker checklist was used to improve feedback on the observed behaviours. Results: 83 trainers and trainees were surveyed following a professional behaviour workshop training 63 surgeons at various stages of training. Surgical list availability had reduced by at least 5-10 a month for all the trainees within the trust during the pandemic. Most trainees surveyed (49 (60%)) felt that this had reduced the opportunities to train technical skills and develop professional non-technical skills like teamwork and communication skills, adversely impacting the trainee’s clinical performance. The increased support offered by the workshop helped 50 trainees (80%) to improve non-technical skill performance objectively by referencing to behavioural markers and this was felt to have become embedded in practice when surveyed 4 weeks later in 38 trainees (60%). The majority of those surveyed (47 (75%)) felt trainers and trainees had acted professionally during the pandemic and subsequently. The workshop discussions also helped (56 (67%)) trainers and trainees to consider how best to engage professionally with new ways of working as work, and training switched to virtual or telemedicine platforms during the pandemic. Conclusion: Professionalism-based education facilitates surgical trainee development, making them stronger team members and helping to restore team working skills and embrace new working practices.
The efficacy of strength and conditioning training on dance injury in pre-professional dancers
(Unpublished, 2023-10-13) Dang, Yanan; Koutedakis, Yiannis; Chen, Ruoling; Wyon, Matthew
Navigating the tensions of dance and science in an emerging research field
(Unpublished, 2023-10-15) Clarke, Frances; Lefebvre-Sell, Naomi; Brown, Derrick; Wyon, Matthew
Injury incidence and severity in Chinese pre-professional dancers: a prospective monitoring survey
(Unpublished, 2023-10-13) Dang, Yanan; Koutedakis, Yiannis; Chen, Ruoling; Wyon, Matthew
British Universities and Colleges Sport: Race and Equality Research
(University of Wolverhampton and British Universities and Colleges Sport, 2023-11-06) Ward, Gavin; Scott, David; Hill, Joanne; Richards, Ronnie; Hardman, Alun; Edwards, Lisa; Akinola, Abiodun; Allen, Jesse; Banks, Alysean; Burnett-Charles, Nadiya; Glynn, Eleanore; Nsingi Nzekele, Verlaine Beth; Okpaje, Tomi
Injury incidence and severity in Chinese pre-professional dancers: a prospective weekly monitoring survey
(Elsevier, 2023-12-04) Dang, Yanan; Koutedakis, Yiannis; Chen, Ruoling; Wyon, Matthew
Objective: To determine dance injury incidence and severity in full-time Chinese pre-professional dancers. Study Design: Prospective weekly online monitoring survey Methods: Respondents were asked to record all dance-injury incidences between September 2020 to July 2021 using a remote weekly self-report injury monitoring tool. An inclusive definition of injury was used in this study to record all injuries, even if they didn’t cause a cessation of training. Data were excluded if respondents completed less than 90% of the survey period and had over 3 consecutive weeks of missing data. Results: 450 individuals from 11 different schools were included in the analyses. A total of 1157 injuries were reported over a 30-week academic year. Injury prevalence was 64.9% and injury incidence was 5.51 injuries per 1000 hours. Forty-eight percentage of the injuries were minor severity and 41% were of moderate severity, and the main injury sites were knees (0.89/1000hrs), lower back (0.80/1000hr), feet (0.58/1000hrs), groin (0.56/1000hrs). Female dancers reported significantly higher injury prevalence and injury incidence, and higher rates of moderate to severe injuries than males. The university group reported higher injury incidence than the adolescent group (p<0.05), whereas the latter reported higher rates of moderate to severe injuries than the former (p<0.001). Conclusion: The injury incidence found in this study (5.1 injuries/1000hrs) is higher than most previous sets of data. Female dancers are at a higher risk of injury and reported higher levels of injury severity than male dancers, especially for the female adolescent group.
Force plate coverings significantly affect measurement of ground reaction forces
(Public Library of Science (PLoS), 2023-11-03) Smith, Tina; Ditroilo, Massimiliano; Faculty of Education, Health & Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, United Kingdom; Faculty of Education, Health & Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, United Kingdom.
The purpose of this study was to carry out a material test to investigate the effect of different force plate coverings on vertical and horizontal ground reaction force and derived parameters. Four surface conditions were analysed; bare plate, vinyl, sportflex, and astroturf on a Kistler force plate. Vertical data were collected by dropping a 2 kg rigid, textured medicine ball from a low (61 cm) and a high (139 cm) height. Horizontal data were collected using a custom-built, rigid, metal pendulum device. A one-way ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of surface on peak force and rate of force development for high height, low height, and horizontal force conditions (all p<0.001), with effect sizes in the post-hoc analysis being mostly large to very large. Interestingly, sportflex yielded the highest vertical but the lowest horizontal ground reaction forces. This study showed the use of current force platform coverings had a significant effect on peak force and rate of force development measurements during a standardised testing procedure. Future research should try to obtain rate of force development values that more closely replicate aspects of human performance during standardised testing procedures. Also further investigate the effect of the different surfaces on ground reaction forces during human movement.
Reliability, variability and minimal detectable change of the isometric mid-thigh pull in adolescent dancers
(SAGE, 2023-09-26) Kolokythas, Nico; Metsios, George S.; Galloway, Shaun; Allen, Nick; Wyon, Matthew
Introduction: The importance and potential benefits of muscular strength in the adolescent’s development for health and fitness has been demonstrated in the literature. Maximal muscular strength and its assessment, however, is not a primary assessment criterium in the selection of young talented dancers. Methods: The present study evaluated the within- and between session reliability, variability, and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP). Thirty-five participants (female n = 17) participated in 2 identical assessments on the same day with 4-hour break in between. Three 3-second IMTP were performed, and the mean peak force value was used for the analyses. Results: Within-session the ICC indicated excellent reliability (ICC = .99, 95% CI: 0.98-0.99). Between-session reliability was excellent (ICC = .98, 95% CI: 0.95-0.99). The standard error of measurement was 4% (48 N), the minimum detectable change was 12% (134 N) and the CV was 3%. There were no within-session statistically significant differences, but statistically significant differences between-session were observed (P < .001). Limits of agreement ranged from −121 N (95% CI −186 to −56 N) to 307 N (95% CI 243-372 N). Conclusion: The observed results demonstrated excellent within- and between sessions reliability, low variability, and an MDC of 12%. The consistency of the within-session scores suggest that peak force data may be obtained with single try efforts. The statistically significant difference in the means of the retest session, however, suggests that the time of the day or the time since entrained awakening may be affecting performance in adolescent dancers. The results of the current study indicate that the IMTP is a reliable assessment tool for maximal muscular strength in adolescent dancers.

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