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Optimal recovery supports health and enhances performance in soccer players, yet the empirical evidence on various recovery strategies in soccer is complex to interpret. This review aimed to summarize the literature on post-exercise recovery modalities in male and female soccer players of all ages and competition levels. Following PRISMA guidelines, PubMed, SPORTDiscuss, and Web of Science were systematically searched until 17 October 2023. Randomized controlled trials or within-subjects crossover design studies that examined the effects of post-exercise recovery interventions on physical, psychological, or performance outcomes in soccer players were included. A single reviewer extracted data and assessed study quality using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Overall, 41 studies were included in the final review. The recovery strategies represented in these studies were organized into the following categories: active recovery, blood flow restriction, cold water immersion, contrast water therapy, compression garments, active cool-down, cryotherapy, cold garments, sleep and daytime nap, pneumatic cooling, foam rolling, mindfulness interventions, nutritional intervention, and static stretching. The findings demonstrated that cold-water immersion consistently improved jump performance and perceptions of fatigue, soreness, and overall well-being. Other recovery strategies, such as active recovery, compression therapy, sleep interventions, and nutrition supplementation, also positively impacted recovery, albeit with varying levels of effectiveness and evidence. However, the studies exhibited heterogeneity in methods, outcome measures, and recovery intervention protocols, posing challenges for generalizability. This review summarizes recovery strategies for soccer players, emphasizing the need for practitioners, coaches, and athletes to individualize interventions based on athletes’ needs, preferences, and competition level.

This comprehensive review examines the historical progression and scientific foundations of resistance training in women, challenging long-standing misconceptions and highlighting the physiological mechanisms that support strength development and health outcomes. The authors detail sex-specific hormonal influences, training adaptations, and the implications for program design, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches tailored to female physiology. The article serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and practitioners seeking to optimize resistance training strategies for women across diverse populations. Read the full article to explore the nuanced interplay between history, biology, and performance.

Study suggests well-formulated ketogenic diet is feasible add-on mental health therapy

The primary aim of this study was to explore the relationship between floatation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (floatation-REST) and nocturnal cardiovascular physiology and sleep in collegiate athletes. The secondary aim was to describe the perceived changes in soreness, mood, fatigue, energy level, and overall experience after floatation-REST in collegiate athletes. Data included 214 records of nocturnal cardiovascular physiology and sleep collected using an acceptably valid and reliable wearable device (Ōura Ring, Ōura Health, Oulu, Finland) from 97 athletes (52.57% women) on 12 varsity teams, and 2,319 survey responses collected immediately after floatation-REST from 898 athletes (48.88% women) on 36 varsity teams. Nocturnal cardiovascular physiology was assessed through resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiration rate, while sleep was summarized using total sleep time, time in bed, and sleep efficiency. The representation of teams was varied, with football and men's and women's swimming heavily represented. Male and female athletes were analyzed separately to prevent overlooking sex-specific physiologic differences. Resting heart rate was significantly lower after floatation-REST than at night immediately before the session in female athletes (p < 0.001, effect size [ES] = −0.223) and male athletes (p < 0.001, ES = −0.186). Heart rate variability and sleep metrics showed no specific changes. In total, 98.7% of athletes reported an overall positive floatation-REST experience, and 85.3% felt better postsession, citing reduced soreness, stress, and fatigue, with improved energy. Thus, although more research is needed, these data provide a positive outlook for the use of this recovery technology in collegiate athletes.

Expertise of athletic trainers aids cadets, deputies in injury prevention and support

Evidence-Based Summary Cold-water immersion is a widely used recovery strategy in soccer, aimed at reducing fatigue and enhancing performance. It involves immersing the body in water at 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F) for 10-15 minutes, typically within an hour post-training or match. Research supports cold-water immersion's effectiveness in improving jump performance and reducing perceived fatigue and soreness in soccer players, though its effects on exercise-induced muscle damage markers like creatine kinase are inconsistent. The mechanisms behind cold-water immersion 's benefits are thought to include reducing inflammation, vasoconstriction, pain relief, psychological effects, and hydrostatic pressure. For optimal recovery, cold-water immersion should be applied immediately after training or matches.

Motion capture technology is quickly evolving providing researchers, clinicians, and coaches with more access to biomechanics data. Markerless motion capture and inertial measurement units (IMUs) are continually developing biomechanics tools that need validation for dynamic movements before widespread use in applied settings. This study evaluated the validity of a markerless motion capture, IMU, and red, green, blue, and depth (RGBD) camera system as compared to marker-based motion capture during countermovement jumps, overhead squats, lunges, and runs with cuts.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office along with the Ohio State University announced the opening of a new wellness center. It’s designed to address both the physical and mental needs of law enforcement officers.

Study suggests 3 in 4 officers have experienced at least 1 concussion