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

Comparative Analysis of the Physical Activity of Rugby Referees in International and National Competitions

N. Bragarenco, R.-A. Diaconescu — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study aimed to diagnose and compare the physical demands specific to rugby referees in international and national competitions, to support the integrated preparation of rugby referees. The research material included official matches from the Rugby World Cup 2023, the Rugby Europe Championship 2022–2023, and the Romanian National Rugby Championship. Data analysis was carried out through systematic observation and video analysis, recording speed-running sequences and gestural activity separately for the referee and the assistant referee. The results showed that the referee is predominantly required to perform repeated short- and medium-distance movements, whereas the assistant referee is characterised by a relatively stable frequency of long-distance running and signalling. The data obtained support the need for an integrated preparation model in which the physical and decision-making components are developed in a convergent manner and adapted to the actual demands of competition.

Understanding Technical Errors in Tennis through Kinetic Chain Analysis

E.A. Bogdan, I. Turcu, V. Koronas — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In tennis, errors that appear now of ball contact are frequently interpreted as isolated technical faults. However, many of these visible mistakes originate earlier in the kinetic chain. This paper discusses how disruptions in movement efficiency and muscular stiffness can alter the sequence of energy transfer within the kinetic chain and ultimately lead to late contact points during tennis strokes. Looking at the importance of movement toward the ball, body alignment, and neuromuscular coordination, the study highlights how small inefficiencies in early phases of motion can propagate through the kinetic chain and affect stroke execution. In this article, the practical implications for coaching are also discussed, analysed the importance of biomechanical observation and video analysis for identifying the true origin of technical errors. This paper aims to explain how movement, balance, and timing interact within the kinetic chain and help coaches and athletes identify the main cause of technical mistakes rather than focusing only on their final manifestation.

Profile of an Ideal Football Scout: Perspectives of Heads of Scouting

Lazar Soc — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Scouting is becoming increasingly popular as a way of entering the world of professional games. The aim of the research was to provide aspiring scouts with information on which qualities are needed to succeed in the profession. A survey was conducted, with participants being heads of scouting from high-profile football clubs, national associations, and scouting agencies. The questions pertained to the experience, knowledge, soft skills, and abilities that scouting department leaders look for in their candidates. Game understanding, attention to detail, authentic formation of opinion, clear and confident reporting, and knowing club philosophy emerged as essential qualities necessary for success in contemporary football scouting.

Effect of Positive Self-Talk on the Opponent in Tennis

Vlad-George Mada — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study examines the effects of positive self-talk on performance in tennis. To this end, a randomized experiment tested whether positive self-talk influences the way tennis players are perceived by their opponents by means of three questionnaires administered during a three-set tiebreak match. Although the results do not confirm the hypotheses, namely that the use of positive self-talk in tennis influences the player’s perception of the opponent, the experiment proves useful for understanding the nuances related to playing level. Athletes with a higher performance level may benefit more from the use of positive self-talk by demonstrating greater motivation and being perceived by their opponents as better players.

Physiotherapy for Children with Microcephaly and Psychomotor Delay

Silviu Gabriel Cioroiu — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Microcephaly is a brain developmental disorder characterized by reduced brain size, associated with abnormalities in cell proliferation. Pathophysiological analysis of this condition highlights the mechanisms by which the adequate generation of neurons, a process essential for establishing brain size and organization, is disrupted. Genetic studies have demonstrated that primary mutations involved in microcephaly frequently affect genes encoding centrosome proteins, suggesting a critical role for them in neurogenesis. Centrosomal dysfunction disrupts cell division, leading to abnormal cortical development, making microcephaly a key model for studying cortical formation and neuronal regulation.

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Improving Quality of Life in Adults with Lumbar Hyperlordose

Florentina Nechita — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The present paper addresses, from an interdisciplinary perspective, the improvement of the quality of life in adults with lumbar hypolordosis, highlighting the impact of this postural disorder on physical functionality and psychological state. The biomechanical implications and the effects on daily activities and socio-professional integration are analyzed. The study emphasizes the need for a complex assessment and personalized intervention. Modern methods of diagnosis and monitoring of evolution are presented. Interventions include physiotherapy programs, postural education, and neuromuscular reeducation. The results aim to improve symptoms and optimize general functionality in the long term.

The Role of Physiotherapy in the Functional Recovery of Patients with Gonartrosis

Alina Martoma — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Gonarthrosis is one of the most common degenerative diseases of the knee joint, characterized by pain, limited mobility, and impaired joint function. Medical rehabilitation, especially through physiotherapy, plays an important role in the conservative management of this pathology. The aim of the study is to highlight the effectiveness of physiotherapy programs in alleviating symptoms and improving joint function in patients with gonarthrosis. The recovery program includes joint mobilization exercises, muscle toning, and functional reeducation. The constant application of these programs contributes to reducing pain, increasing joint mobility, and improving the quality of life of patients. The results obtained highlight the importance of physiotherapy as an essential therapeutic method in the functional recovery of patients with gonarthrosis.

The Acute Effect of Passive Static Stretching and Self-Stretching in Non-Specific Neck Pain in Young Adult Population

J. Mihalla, M.C. Kotzamanidou, K. Agas, V. Misailidou — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to assess the acute effect of passive static stretching and self-stretching on the upper trapezius muscle in reducing current non-specific neck pain in the young population. Forty young adults (14 males, 26 females) aged 18 to 25 years, who were experiencing current non-specific neck pain, were allocated randomly into two groups (self-stretching vs. passive static stretching of the upper trapezius muscle. Pain, as evaluated with the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire and Visual Analogue Scale, was significantly lower after the intervention in both groups (p < 0.05). Thus, self-stretching could be considered as a low-cost, efficient intervention to acutely relieve neck pain.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Handball Player – A Case Study

Mircea Olteanu — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is one of the most serious injuries affecting handball players due to the sport’s high-intensity movements, such as jumping, fast changes of direction, and pivoting. Most ACL injuries occur through non-contact mechanisms, particularly during landing, cutting maneuvers, or sudden deceleration, often associated with biomechanical factors like dynamic knee valgus and inadequate neuromuscular control. The etiology of ACL injuries in handball is multifactorial, involving intrinsic factors such as anatomical characteristics, neuromuscular imbalances, and previous injuries, as well as extrinsic factors including playing surface, footwear, and training load. Recent research highlights the importance of structured neuromuscular training programs designed to improve strength, proprioception, and movement mechanics in order to reduce injury risk.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence Applications to Improve Fitness Levels in University Students

Stefan Alecu — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study analyzes the impact of an artificial intelligence-based application on physical fitness in university students. A total of 114 participants were divided into experimental and control groups. The intervention lasted 8 weeks and was conducted during physical education classes. The experimental group used the FitAI application (version 1.5.5), while the control group followed standard training. Fitness variables included BMI, cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. Results show great improvements in the experimental group across all parameters. The findings support the use of AI applications as an effective tool for enhancing physical education outcomes in university settings.

Mobak-Kg-Based Assessment of the Effects of Movement Games on Gross Motor Skills in Preschool Children

Raluca Mijaica — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The aim of this study was to assess, using the MOBAK-KG test, the effects of a movement games-based programme on gross motor skills in preschool children. The research was conducted on two groups of children aged 5–6 years: an experimental group and a control group, each consisting of 20 participants. The experimental group followed an 18-lesson programme based on movement games, while the control group carried out the usual activities included in the preschool curriculum. Assessment was performed before and after the intervention using the MOBAK-KG test. The results showed significant differences between the two groups in terms of recorded progress. The conclusions support the use of movement games as a methodological means for developing gross motor skills at preschool age.

Application of Questionnaires in Addition to Evaluating Physical Activity Levels

Diana Popova-Dobreva — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study systematizes the fields in which walking tests are used and the questionnaires most frequently associated with them in scientific studies published over the last year in the medical database PubMed. A total of 45 out of 46 identified Randomized Controlled Trials with Free Full Text were analyzed. In 91% of the studies, the 6-minute walk test was the primary assessment tool. The test was mainly applied in cardiovascular (33%) and respiratory disorders (31%), followed by COVID-19-related conditions (20%). The accompanying questionnaires focused on specific disease-related assessment (33%), quality of life (27%), mental health (23%), and physical activity (17%). The findings highlight the 6-minute walk test as a widely preferred method for evaluating cardiorespiratory function and support the complementary use of questionnaires, particularly those assessing physical activity, in screening and prevention research.

Proposal of Adapted Physical Exercises to Alleviate Occupational Diseases Suffered by Computer Workers at The University of Physical Culture and Sports Sciences (UCCFD): “Manuel Fajardo”

M. Ramirez, L. Yaunner, M. Valdes, S. Merced — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The general objective of this work is to adapt to the context of the IT department at the University of Physical Culture and Sports Sciences (UCCFD): “Manuel Fajardo,” contributing to the alleviation of occupational illnesses among its employees. To mitigate these problems, the study recommends proper work organization, ergonomic design of facilities and equipment, and adapted physical exercises to alleviate occupational illnesses in IT professionals. These exercises focus on strengthening and stretching the body areas most affected by prolonged computer use, as well as improving posture and reducing stress, thereby enhancing their quality of life and work performance.