Bulletin of the Transilvania University of Braşov. Series IX: Sciences of Human Kinetics

Study on Developing Balance through Throwing Drills in Third-Grade Pupils

C.C. Dragoi — 2025-12-10

This research aims to study the influence of throwing exercises on balance in third-grade pupils. To this end, a comparative study was conducted between two groups of pupils, applying an intervention program to the experimental group. The program included drills focused on all types of throws, performed from various static and dynamic positions, over a period of 13 weeks. The assessments generated results that led to significant conclusions on the practical relevance of the intervention, confirming that the outcomes support the hypothesis that the program applied to the experimental group has a positive effect on developing balance in third-grade children.

The Impact of Thematic Dance on the Cognitive and Physical Development of Pupils in the Preparatory School Year

G. Flucus — 2025-12-10

This study examines the impact of thematic dance on the physical and cognitive development of pupils in the preparatory school year. The research was conducted over an eight-week period, involving 46 children divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group participated in structured dance lessons twice a week, while the control group followed the usual curriculum without the intervention of thematic dance. To assess the effects, specific tests were applied, such as the Stork static balance test, an immediate word memory test, and a questionnaire for parents which aims at finding out their opinion on the benefits of this activity. Statistical analysis, using the t test for pair and independent samples, showed significant improvements in balance (mean increase from 2.70 to 4.04 seconds) and children's memory (from 3.83 to 5.26 words). The questionnaire confirmed these results, with 86.36% noticing motor improvements and 77.27% an increase in static balance. The results highlight the benefits of thematic dance in the development of motor coordination and cognitive functions. It is recommended to integrate structured dance activities into the school curriculum to support physical education and artistic expression.

Study regarding The Development of Memory and Thinking in Children using the Game of Chess

C. Nanu — 2025-12-10

The development of memory and thinking in children who practice chess is very important for their access to performance. In this study we focused on the application of standardized tests to observe whether playing chess in an organized matter will develop thinking faster than children who do not practice this sport. Also, the visual memory of young school children can be improved by chess, as it becomes superior to those of the same age who do not play chess.

Redefining the Physical Education Activities by Means of Psycho-Pedagogical Methods for Optimizing Gymnasium Students’ Biometric Development

V. Mindrescu — 2025-12-10

The purpose of this research is to argue in a scientific manner that the instructional-educational process in physical education lessons brings significant improvements in optimizing the biometric development of high school students. The hypothesis of this study is centred upon the idea that the physical education lesson can be optimized by selecting specific means for physical education, which will determine the developments of the biometric potential for the Gymnasium students. By implementing some elements from the physical education program, the physical condition of the Gymnasium students will be improved, as well as their cognitive and affective capacities. Methods: The research sample consisted of two groups, each with 19 and 16 subjects (35 subjects in total), aged between 15 and 18 years. There have been performed tests validated on a large scale in the field, besides, there have been performed also an observation off the record, in order to analyse, generalize and explain in an empiric way the results. The results: the strategy for the research has included the studying, analysing and the knowledge of the psychological particularities of the subjects’ personalities and the way they developed after carrying out the tests. Conclusion: the study brings a contribution to the recognition of the Gymnasium students’ biometric potential by making the students be aware of the special effect the physical exercises have, on a daily basis, on their harmonious development, to strengthen their health, in order to prepare them for life and for work.

Motivation Versus Sports Dropout in Romanian Ski Jumping

Wilhelm Robert Grosz — 2025-12-10

The reason for this research was determined by the fact that the number of athletes practicing this sport has significantly decreased. In parallel, sports performances at the level of children and juniors in foreign competitions have not registered significant progress. If in 2010-2011, in the international competitions of FIS Jungend Grand Prix, the first places were won by Romanian athletes, and in 2016 the International Competition Carpathian Tournament for juniors had a Romanian athlete as the winner, these results have not been reissued until now. More sadly, all those athletes, who could have reached the world top, today no longer practice this sport, prematurely abandoning the activity in high performance sports. To determine the causes that underlie this phenomenon, a research approach was started based on the survey method to determine the main reasons. The subjects were 36 former athletes who practiced this sport. The research activity was carried out between January 2025 and June 2025. The research results highlight some of the many reasons that could have been studied, the most important being motivation, the athlete-coach relationship, and the scheduling of sports training in relation to school activity.

The Role of Kinesiology in Optimizing Performance through Functional Fitness Training

Stefan Alecu — 2025-12-10

Functional training complements traditional sports preparation by improving mobility, stability, and neuromuscular control. The study included 20 university athletes (football and handball, 18–25 years) randomly divided into an experimental group (EG, n=10) and a control group (CG, n=10). EG performed 8 weeks of integrated functional training, while CG continued regular routines. Tests (agility, vertical jump, plank, hip/shoulder mobility) showed significant improvements for EG: faster agility (−1.27 s), higher jump (+7.98 cm), greater stability (+19.85 s plank), and superior joint mobility. Conclusion: short, integrated sessions effectively optimize athletic performance.

Strategies to Optimise U12 Players’ Basketball Games Based on Age-Specific Characteristics

I.A. Badea — 2025-12-10

The purpose of this research is to provide a theoretical and practical framework based on the specialized literature for research, identification and application of optimal training strategies in the game of basketball in the U12 category in accordance with the specific particularities of the age. In the Under 12 category, the specific training must be carried out according to the particularities of age, the characteristics of each athlete and the knowledge accumulated by them during the training period. In this category, the rules are adapted to the psychomotor skills specific to the children's ages and modified so that all children have maximum chances of being involved in the game. The manifestation of motor qualities is not crystallized, as a result, children who do not show aptitudes will not be removed from the training groups. This stage is intended to attract, detect and select talented children with basketball skills. The U12 training program should be tailored to the morpho-functional needs of young athletes, considering their physical, mental, and social development. The level of preparation will determine their competitive performance.

Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Peak Isometric Force at Different Joint Angles in Youth Water Polo Athletes

A.I. Baltean — 2025-12-10

This study aimed to compare lower-limb peak isometric force characteristics in water polo players using the Takei back and leg dynamometer. Two testing positions were employed: full knee extension and 90-degree knee flexion. A total of 38 athletes were assessed, divided into U16 and U18 age groups. While no statistically significant differences were found between age groups, highly significant intra-group differences emerged between test positions (p < .001), with substantially greater force values recorded in full extension. These results underline the influence of joint angle on isometric strength outcomes and highlight the importance of standardizing test positions in strength assessment protocols for water polo players.

Training the Structure of Competitive Skill in Judo

V. Bunescu — 2025-12-10

The training of competitive skills in judo is a continuous and holistic process that requires an integrated approach to all aspects of sport. To study the problem of the gradual training of judoka competitive skill, it was decided to conduct a study on different age groups of athletes. The judoka competitive skill has been assessed at different level competitions. As a result of the study, an innovative way to build a model of the "Ideal Judoka" was proposed, including 16 separate skills developed because of the officially adopted rules of judo competitions.

Specific Aspects of Sports Training in Karate Do for Beginners to Prevent Injuries during Training and Competitions

M.I. Gheorghian — 2025-12-10

This scientific review analyses the fundamental principles of sports education in the martial arts, with a focus on Karate, and emphasises the importance of well-structured training for beginners. It also discusses the role of mental and psychological training alongside the physical, theoretical, technical and tactical training specific to Karate. The study argues the need to combine the technical-tactical components with the emotional and psychological components to reduce the incidence of injuries to practitioners. It also presents a series of measures aimed at preventing injuries so that training and competitions can take place in a safe environment.

The Dynamics of Control Asymmetry in Leg Extension Movements during Psycho-Neuro-Motor Training in Youth Basketball Athletes

A.R. Iacobini — 2025-12-10

This study extends our previous research on control asymmetries, now focusing on the leg extension movement in youth basketball athletes using the "conditions simulator for water sports" (C.S.N. Simulator). While the primary goal is improving vertical jump control, the conducted training revealed significant changes in lower limb symmetry and control of the movements. Additionally, fluctuations in strength and lack of anticipation were observed, particularly as execution speed increased. This case study explores symmetries and asymmetries following the C.S.N. simulator training, providing insights into the dynamics of symmetry and anticipation in the leg extension movement. Observations showed that control dominance varied with speed, suggesting adaptations to the training demands. These findings support further research on symmetry dynamics, strength fluctuations, and anticipation in other exercises and sports to optimize athletic performance.

Analysis of The Relationship between Static Balance Parameters in Young Boxers

M. Iorgu — 2025-12-10

This study evaluated static balance in 11 young boxers (14–15 years) from the “Club Sportiv Iorgu” Association, using the Sensamove MiniBoard to assess performance and variability across balance axes. Mean overall performance was 71.73 %, with greater stability on frontal and right axes and instability on posterior and left axes (Back = –2.02, Left = –1.51). Performance variability was moderate on frontal axis (SD = 4.19) and lower on posterior and lateral axes (SD = 0.37–0.45). Coefficient of variation was low frontally (5.85 %) but higher laterally/posteriorly (up to 27.12 %). Correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between overall performance and frontal deviations (R = –0.654) and a positive correlation between frontal and posterior deviations (R = 0.669). It is necessary to use sport-specific training for improving posterior and lateral stability.

Contemporary Fitness Approaches to Improve Body Composition in Adults

F. Nechita — 2025-12-10

Fitness plays an essential role in improving body composition by reducing fat mass and increasing muscle mass. Regular training, which combines cardio and strength exercises, stimulates metabolism and optimizes calorie burning. Sustained physical activity, along with a balanced diet, contributes to regulating body fat percentage and developing a harmonious body structure. In addition, monitoring progress and adapting the training program allows for effective and sustainable results. Thus, fitness becomes a practical and accessible strategy for improving body composition and maintaining overall health.

The Role of GPS Technologies in the Preparation of Juniors for the Sports Orienteering

Andrei Golovei — 2025-12-10

Currently, information technologies play a crucial role in the planning and organization of orienteering events, facilitating both the competition process and the training of athletes. The theoretical study of the issue highlights that with the development of GPS systems, which represent the subject of this research, it has become possible to record juniors' performances during training. This allows the coach to adjust the junior athlete’s technique and helps the athlete correct mistakes. The study results indicate that the special function of GPS to record race routes plays a significant role in the analysis of orienteering training, thus the application of these techniques can enhance learning efficiency in the training process.

The Influence of Sleep Quality on Athletic and Cognitive Performance in Chess

R. Mijaica — 2025-12-10

This study explores the link between sleep quality and cognitive performance in adolescent chess players. Over five months, ten athletes aged 13–18 from clubs in Odorheiu Secuiesc and Târgu Mureș were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and chess problem-solving tests. Results showed a moderate sleep quality (mean PSQI = 4.4); competitive players, despite slightly poorer sleep, achieved better cognitive and sport performance. The Spearman coefficient (rₛ = 0.649) indicated a positive trend between good sleep and higher efficiency in focus and decision-making. Findings highlight the role of adequate sleep and sleep hygiene education in supporting mental performance and resilience in young chess players.

The Particularities of the Use of Breathing Simulators on the Young Swimmers’ Physical Training

Igor Papanaga — 2025-12-10

This study explores breathing simulators in young swimmers' training, assessing their role in performance, endurance, and oxygen use. It reviews existing knowledge, analyzing physiological and psychological effects while addressing risks. Findings indicate these devices improve fitness and adaptation but require monitoring for safety. The paper highlights benefits and challenges, including psychological preparation, injury prevention, and developmental impacts.

Level of Intelligence: A Comparative Study of Individual vs. Team Sports Athletes

R.G. Petrea — 2025-12-10

In this research Level of Intelligence: A Comparative Study of Individual vs. Team Sports Athletes we compared the level of intelligence of individual sports (swimming) versus team sports (soccer). The research subjects are child athletes (swimmers and soccer players) aged between 6.0 and 9.11 (M = 7.08; SD = ±0.63) years who practice these sports at sports clubs in the Municipality of Iasi. The hypothesis of the research is there is no statistically significant difference in the level of intelligence that swimmers have compared to footballers. The research results show that the hypothesis is disproved, and the difference in the intelligence level that footballers have (M = 103.25; SD = ±12.86) is statistically significantly higher (t = 3.05; p = 0.003) compared to the intelligence level of swimmers (M = 97.08; SD = ±9.15). This difference may be due to genetic inheritance, but also to the fact that soccer is a team sport that requires more psychomotor processing due to aspects such as: execution technique, teammates and the presence of direct opponents.

Comparative Analysis of Unipedal Balance Parameters in Young Fencers

Simona Georgiana Popa — 2025-12-10

The study evaluated unipedal balance in 12–14-year-old fencers from Quatro Bucharest using a Sensamove MiniBoard (10 s test, 10° tilt). Average performance was 72.43% on the right leg (RL) and 71.14% on the left (LL). Mean deviations were RL: 1.88° front, –2.01° back; LL: 1.92° front, –1.98° back. LL showed higher coefficient of variation and more asymmetric distributions, especially in back deviation, indicating less consistent control. Performance stability was similar, though deviation rose slightly from RL (7.23%) to LL (8.26%). A significant difference appeared in left deviation (p = 0.045), with RL more stable, suggesting the need for targeted left-leg training.

Functional Assessments of Track And Field Athletes For Relative Shortness In Particular Muscles

D. Popova-Dobreva — 2025-12-10

This article contributes to a project focused on crafting stretching exercise regimens tailored for runners and jumpers. The aim is to enhance the extensibility of muscles prone to shortening, particularly targeting specific muscles in the lower limbs, as well as the trapezius and paravertebral muscles. The program targets specialists in sports training and kinesiotherapy, benefiting from its application. The study cohort comprises adolescent track and field athletes. Subjects undergo testing to identify muscle shortening in various muscle groups, including the lower extremities (such as “m.iliopsoas”, “m.soleus, m. rectus femoris”, and biceps femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus muscle group), as well as the paravertebral muscles and “m. trapezius”. Identifying muscle shortening among adolescent track and field athletes will enhance the development of stretching programs for warm-up and cool-down routines specifically tailored to runners and jumpers in track and field events.

Analysis of Dynamic Balance Parameters in Young Judokas

C. Rosu — 2025-12-10

This study evaluated dynamic balance in female judokas using the Sensamove Miniboard. Parameters included overall performance, dynamic lateral balance (DLB), vertical balance (DVB) and average deviations. Average performance was 78.67 % for DLB and 83.87 % for DVB, indicating superior vertical stability. The largest deviations occurred in the back-inside position, with the highest variability in left-side deviation. DLB correlated significantly with overall performance (R = 0.593, p = 0.017), whereas DVB did not (R = –0.038, p = 0.892). A t-test confirmed significant DLB–DVB differences. Targeted training to enhance lateral stability, especially backward control, is recommended to optimize postural balance.

Balance Improvement in Junior Athletes through Proprioceptive Training Using Xsens Sensor Technology

Gheorghe Adrian Onea — 2025-12-10

Proprioceptive training is essential for developing coordination, balance, and movement control in junior athletes. This study investigates the impact of an individualized proprioceptive training program on balance parameters in six junior hurdlers, using advanced kinematic data recorded with the Xsens inertial motion tracking system. Three key biomechanical indicators - Roll, Pitch, and Yaw - were monitored pre- and post-intervention during hurdle clearance phases. The results highlight a general improvement in balance and control, particularly in the angular displacement of the center of mass during landing phases. The study validates the use of Xsens technology for fine-grained motion analysis and supports the incorporation of proprioceptive drills in athletic training programs to improve performance and injury prevention.

The Role of Self-Efficacy in Sport for Achieving Performance

A.E. Albina — 2025-12-10

The study focuses on how different factors in sports careers influence success and evolution in competitions, one of the most important being the level of self-efficacy. The participants were 57 elite athletes aged between 18 and 34 years, M = 20.87, AS = 1.32. A series of questionnaires designed for the purpose of carrying out this study were used to identify the sport practiced, the years of practice, the level of satisfaction regarding the effectiveness of training, the effectiveness of communication with the coach, with the representatives of the club and the federation, as well as the Questionnaire for the Measurement of Self-Efficacy in Sport. The results showed that performance athletes have a high level of self-efficacy, on the background of a perceived satisfaction with the effectiveness of training, against a not very good relationship with coaches and the federation (43.8%).

Comparative Evaluation of Proprioceptive Training on Postural Stability in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

A.V. Enache — 2025-12-10

This study examined the effects of a 6-week proprioceptive training program on postural stability in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Fifty-seven participants were divided into an experimental group, which followed a proprioceptive exercise protocol, and a control group, which received no intervention. Postural stability was measured by monitoring the Center of Pressure (CoP) with both eyes open and closed. The experimental group showed a reduction in CoP, indicating improved stability, while the control group exhibited an increase. Although statistical significance was not reached, the results suggest that proprioceptive training may help prevent further loss of stability. Further research with a larger sample size is recommended.

The Role of Physiotherapy in the Recovery of the Surgery of the Bimalleolar Fracture

Silviu Gabriel Cioroiu — 2025-12-10

Malleolar fractures are one of the most common types of fractures, ranking second after hip fractures, wrist fractures, and hand fractures. Also, malleolar fractures are the second most common fracture requiring hospitalization. By using physiotherapy methods and complementary means of recovery over a period of 6 months, the mobility of the ankle joint will be improved as well as the resumption of socio-professional activity by the patient. The essence of the research in this article is based on demonstrating the importance of using physical therapy tools to achieve the proposed objectives. At the same time, it will provide the patient with the opportunity for reintegration both professionally and socially.

The Quality of Life in Old Age: An Analysis of the Determining Factors and the Impact on Well-Being

F. Nafornita — 2025-12-10

Population aging is a global challenge, and the focus on quality of life in later life becomes essential. This review analyzes the determinants of quality of life in older adults and their impact on well-being. It examines individual factors (physical and mental health, lifestyle, personal resources), social factors (social support, interpersonal relationships, social participation), and environmental factors (physical and social environment, technology). The review explores how these factors influence well-being in old age, including physical, psychological, social, and emotional dimensions. Strategies to promote quality of life in older adults are also analyzed, such as health improvement interventions, social support programs, cognitive stimulation and social engagement activities, education, and lifelong learning. Finally, the practical implications of the research are discussed, finding gaps in the literature and providing recommendations for future studies and public policies aimed at supporting active aging and a high quality of life in later life. This review offers an updated synthesis of knowledge on quality of life in older adults, being relevant for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers involved in improving the well-being of older people.

The Influence of Physical Therapy on the Functional Status of Patients Suffering from Spinal Osteoarthritis of the Cervical Spine

I.C. Neagoe — 2025-12-10

Neck pain is one of the 4 most reported musculoskeletal disorders in the medical field. This condition can lead to functional limitations and can have negative economic and social impacts on the patient's life in addition to the medical repercussions. Approximately half of the population experiences cervical pain or cervicobrachial syndrome at some point in their lives, making it a common complaint. This study was conducted on a total of 10 participants who had been diagnosed with cervical disc disease and consecutive neck pain in the subacute or chronic phase of the disease. The patients selected for this study were assigned to a single group and underwent a complex rehabilitation treatment including physical-kinetic therapy (medical gymnastics, kinesio-prophylaxis, electrotherapy, massage, thermotherapy). The treatment protocol was adapted and individualized for each patient. The statistical results obtained from the study emphasize the importance and effectiveness of the physio-kinesiotherapy protocol in improving the clinical status, functional abilities and consequently the quality of life of patients with cervical pain caused by cervical disease.

Developing a Valid and Standardized Tool for Measuring the Level of Romanians' Biases Related to Women's Fo

Bogdan S. Olaru — 2025-12-10

The aim of this paper is to develop, validate, and standardize a questionnaire designed to measure the level of manifestation of the main biases regarding Romanian women's football. A mixed-methodology approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, was employed to identify three preconceptions, which were subsequently transformed into the factors of the questionnaire. These factors were operationalized, and through a pretest phase, the goal was to achieve the best possible intrafactorial internal consistency (f1: α = .91; f2: α = .93; f3: α = .94). Finally, the degree of item comprehension was measured, and reliability was tested (t(12) = 0.63, p = .54).

Scoliosis Recovery using the Schroth Method

Mircea Olteanu — 2025-12-10

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformation of the spine that can affect the posture, mobility and quality of life of patients. Medical rehabilitation of scoliosis involves complex and multidisciplinary methods, including therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy, the use of corsets and, in severe cases, surgical interventions. The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of rehabilitation methods in correcting the curvature of the spine and creating patient activity. The rehabilitation program includes specific postural re-education exercises, methods such as Schroth and SEAS, electrostimulation and hydrokinetotherapy. The results of the studies show that personalized interventions, applied in the long term, contribute significantly to increasing spinal alignment and reducing associated symptoms. In conclusion, a combined approach, adapting each patient, is essential for achieving optimal results in the management of scoliosis.

Assessment of Paravertebral Muscles’s Behavior Following Core Training – A Tool in Therapy of Lumbar Spine Pathologies

C. Popa — 2025-12-10

Complex and heterogeneous disorders of lumbar spine are frequently encountered. This study presents in three active adults the muscular behaviour after a CORE training on lumbar spine (tracking the immediate effect) using Myon surface EMG tool associated to VICON system capture of motion. Results suggest that Core training improve muscle function, potentially benefits for physiotherapy practice both the prophylactic and the therapeutic intervention for lumbar spine pathologies. This type of training is worthy to be integrated and applied in the current physiotherapeutic practice, to target the muscles responsible for trunk and spine stability and mobility.

Visual Stimulus Response Rate, Analysis of Values Obtained from two Different Positions

Raducu Popescu — 2025-12-10

Studying the ability to have rapid and context-related reactions is becoming an increasingly obvious concern of the movement specialists. The speed of reaction results from neural performance, visual acuity and specific training. Constant physical activity influences the reaction speed and can make the difference between success and failure. Our study included 25 female subjects, with a body mass index between 19 and 27, who were not involved in sports training activities. Measurements were made in the sitting position on two legs with bent knees and in the position on one foot in equilibrium. Results were correlated with body mass index. For the "Two-legged" test — with average: 217.28, the "One-legged" test where average was 216.36 and "BMI" with average: 21.08. Correlation between the two tests: 0.901 (strong positive correlation → similar performance between the two conditions). Correlation between test 1 and "BMI": -0.004 (BMI does not significantly influence two-legged performance). Correlation between test two and "BMI": 0.082 (very weak). People who perform well on two legs tend to have a similar performance on one leg. BMI does not appear to significantly influence either balance on two legs or one leg. The values are relatively close between "On two legs" and "On one leg", but there are individual variations

Specific Features of the Psychological Well-Being of Foreign Students in the Sports Environment

V. Razmiret — 2025-12-10

The well-being of international students significantly influences their academic success and socio-cultural adaptation. This study examines differences in psychological well-being between international students who engage in sports and those who do not. The objectives include assessing well-being levels based on sports participation, analyzing its impact on academic performance, and outlining distinct psychological profiles for each group. Using literature review and empirical data, the findings emphasize that sports participation positively affects students’ psychological well-being, supporting better academic outcomes and smoother cultural integration.