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Öğe Chronotype as a predictor of athletic performance in youth with mild intellectual disabilities(Frontiers Media Sa, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Tuerkmen, Musa; Car, Bekir; Setiawan, Edi; Yermakhanov, Baglan; Alotaibi, Madawi H.Aim This study aimed to explore the influence of circadian rhythms on athletic performance in individuals with mild intellectual disabilities (ID), with a specific focus on elucidating the association between chronotype and various performance metrics. Methods The study was a cross-sectional study consisting of 30 male participants aged between 11 and 19 years and diagnosed with mild ID. The chronotypes of all participants were assessed using the Childhood Chronotype Questionnaire (CCQ). Performance assessments were divided into three groups. Group A tests [sit and reach, medicine ball throw (MBT), plank], group B tests [handgrip strength (HGS), standing long jump (SLJ), 20-m sprint (20 ms)] and group C tests [vertical jump (VJ), hanging with bent arm (HBA), Illinois agility test) in order to ensure adequate rest periods between tests and not to affect the results. These group tests were performed 48 h apart, between 09:00-10:00 and 17:00-18:00, after a dynamic warm-up session. Results Significant variations were observed in the sit-and-reach test (t = -4.154, d = -0.75, p < .001), HGS (t = -2.484, d = -0.45, p = .019), SLJ (t = -2.117, d = -0.38, p = .043), VJ (t = -5.004, d = -0.91, p < .001), and plank duration (t = -4.653, d = -0.84, p < .001). Evening performances showed improvement in MBT, HBA, 20 ms, and the Illinois agility test, although these differences were not statistically significant (p > .05). Notably, positive correlations were identified between participants' chronotypes and their performance in HBA (morning/evening; r = .693, p = .026; r = .656, p = .039, respectively) and the plank (evening; r = .717, p = .020), with negative correlations noted in the 20 ms (morning/evening; r = -.703, p = .023; r = -.710, p = .021, respectively). Conclusion The findings suggest that individuals with mild ID exhibit enhanced athletic performance during evening hours. These insights underscore the importance of considering chronotype in tailoring exercise interventions for this population to optimize outcomes.Öğe Comparison of echocardiographic parameters of amputee football players with active football players and sedentary individuals(Bmc, 2023) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Kurtoglu, Ertugrul; Konar, Nurettin; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Prieto-Gonzalez, Pablo; Nobari, HadiBackgroundThe purpose of this study is to compare the echocardiographic (ECHO) parameters of amputee football players (AF) with those of athletes without a disability (football players) (FP), and sedentary individuals (SI).MethodsA total of 37 male participants (nAF = 12, nFP = 12, nSI = 13) were included in the study. All participants underwent a transthoracic echocardiographic examination. Aortic diameter in systole (ADs), aortic diameter in diastole (ADd), isovolumic contraction time (IVCT), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), early (E) and late (A) wave velocities, myocardial systolic (S), early diastolic (E'), and late diastolic (A') myocardial rates, interventricular septal thickness (IVS), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd) and left ventricular end-systole diameter (LVDs), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWd), left atrial diameter (LAD), and ascending aortic diameter (AAD) were measured.ResultsLVDd, E' were lower in AF than in FP. In contrast, LVDs, LVPWd, and A wave were higher in AF than in FP. When AF and SI groups were compared, ADs, LVPWd, A wave, IVRT, and S wave were higher in AF than in SI. ANOVA test showed a statistically significant difference between groups in LVPWd, A-wave, and E' wave. TTE data indicate that some parameters in AF differ from those observed in healthy individuals. The smaller LVEED diameter and higher PWT were found in AF.ConclusionsAlthough within normal limits, some ECHO parameters in the AF group differed from those without disability. Future studies should further investigate these differences using different and detailed measurement methods.Öğe The effect of chronic leg press exercises on hamstring muscle length and different vertical jump performance(Iermakov S S, 2024) Kurhan, Sebiha; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Kurhan, Cihad Onur; Eken, Ozgur; Car, BekirBackground and Study Aim As it is known, chronic resistance exercises cause limitations in some joints and this negatively affects the normal range of motion. In the present study, it was aimed to analyse the quadriceps -hamstring balance by analysing different vertical jump performances after six weeks of leg press exercise. Material and Methods Eleven university students aged between 18-30 years were included in this study. The hamstring muscle length, 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) leg press performance were analysed before and after six weeks of leg press exercise. In addition, the vertical jump performances of the participants were analysed with My Jump 2 software programme. In this study, counter movement jumps (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) performances of the participants were determined. Results According to the findings, 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) leg press performance and hamstring length of the participants improved significantly (t=-7.609, ES: -2.29, p<.001; t=-2.540, -0.76, p=.029, respectively). CMJ and SJ parameters of the participants did not change (p<0.05). It was concluded that the lengthened hamstring length after the leg press exercise programme had a positive relationship with vertical jump height (r=0.656, p=0.028), flight duration (r=0.663, p=0.026), speed (r=0.657, p=0.028), and average speed (r=0.669, p=0.024). These relationships were observed among CMJ parameters following the exercise programme. Likewise, a positive correlation was found between hamstring length, which lengthened after the leg press exercise programme, and vertical jump height (r=0.625, p=0.040), flight duration (r=0.646, p=0.032), speed (r=0.646, p=0.032), and average speed (r=0.637, p=0.035). These correlations were identified among the SJ parameters after the exercise. Conclusions As a result, it was determined that chronic leg press exercises positively affected hamstring muscle length and muscle strength. Different vertical jump performances such as CMJ and SJ did not change. However, the relationship between hamstring length and vertical jump parameters is interesting.Öğe Effects of an eight-week bosu ball exercise program on core strength endurance and balance performance in intellectually disabled adolescents(Springer, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Topoglu, Sevin; Isbasaran, Dervis Alper; Eken, Ozgur; Nobari, HadiThe objective of this study is to investigate the impact of an eight-week bosu ball exercise (BBE) program on core strength endurance and balance performance in intellectually disabled (ID) adolescents. Twenty-nine participants (14 males and 15 females) between the ages of 11 and 14, who had been diagnosed with moderate and mild intellectual disabilities (ID) by the Provincial Guidance Research Center they were affiliated with, were included in the study. The participants underwent an eight-week program of BBE. The plank test, endurance of the right (R) and left (L) lateral flexors, endurance of abdominal muscles, and endurance of back extensor muscles were assessed to determine core region endurance before and after BBE. Additionally, balance performance was evaluated using the Y balance test. The right (R) and left (L) leg Y balance test performances of the participants before and after BBE did not change significantly according to the group*time interaction (p>0.05). In the time interaction, L-Anterior (L-An) [F-(1,F- 27)=4.273, eta(2)(p)=.137,p=.048], L-Postmedial (L-PM) [F-(1,F- 27)=15.244, eta(2)(p)=.361,p<.001], L-Postlateral (L-PL) [F-(1,F-27)=10. 703, eta(2)(p)=.284,p=.003], R-An [F-(1,F- 27)=9.833, eta(2)(p)=.267, p=. 004], R-PM [F-(1,F- 27)=9.958, eta(2)(p)=. 269,p=.004], R-PL [F-(1,F- 27)=15.681, eta(2)(p)=.367,p<.001] values increased significantly. When the core strength parameters of the participants were examined; extensor muscle endurance showed a significant change in favour of men in the group-time interaction [F-(1,F- 27)=6.619, eta(2)(p)=.197, p=.016]. In the time interaction, plank [F-(1,F- 27)=16.204, eta(2)(p)=.375, p<.001], R-lateral flexor muscles [F-(1,F- 27)=14.140, eta(2)(p)=.344,p<.001], L-lateral flexor muscles [F-(1,F- 27)=12.379, eta(2)(p)=.314,p=.002], abdominal muscle [F-(1,F- 27)=8.418, eta(2)(p)=.238,p=.007], extensor muscles [F-(1,F- 27)=17.802, eta(2)(p)=.397,p<.001] parameters in males and females. As a result, BBE could be considered a preferred exercise modality to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries caused by balance impairment and inadequate trunk strength, which are prevalent among individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID).Öğe Effects of chronic core training on serum and erythrocyte oxidative stress parameters in amputee football players(Frontiers Media Sa, 2023) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Konar, Nurettin; Akcinar, Faruk; Car, Bekir; Uremis, Nuray; Turkoz, Yusuf; Eken, OzgurObjective: The positive impact of aerobic exercise on blood oxidative stress parameters is well documented. However, the effect of core exercises on these parameters in amputee football players (AF) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of core exercises on blood oxidative stress parameters in this population.Methods: Experimental method was adopted in the study. Eleven elite AF players participated in the study. The participants were divided randomly into two groups a core exercise group (CEG) and a control group (CG). Blood measurements were taken before and after the 8-week core exercise program. Blood measurements included erythrocyte Total Oxidant Status (eTOS), erythrocyte Total Antioxidant Status (eTAS), erythrocyte oxidative stress index (eOSI), serum nitric oxide (sNO), serum Total Oxidant Status (sTOS), serum Total Antioxidant Status (sTAS), serum oxidative stress index (sOSI), serum total thiol (sTT), serum native thiol (sNT), and serum disulfide (sDS) parameters were studied.Results: According to the results of the study, a significant difference was found between the 0th and eighth week pre-aerobic training load (ATL) sTOS (p = .028) values of CEG values. A significant difference was found in sTOS (p = .028) and sOSI (p = .028) values after the 0th and eighth-week pre-ATL. A significant difference was found in the sTOS (p = .043) and sOSI values (p = .043) of CG at week 0th and eighth-week pre-ATL.Conclusion: Overall, the results suggest that core exercises had a positive effect on blood oxidative stress parameters in AF players by reducing blood total oxidant levels.Öğe Enhancing Pulmonary Function in Children with a 4-week Yoga Exercise Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial(Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications, 2025) Soyler, Mehmet; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Aydin, Engin; Senol, Ilkin; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.Background: Yoga is a widely recognized form of aerobic exercise that has gained significant popularity in recent years, with well-documented positive effects on respiratory functions. However, there is a limited body of research investigating the impact of yoga performed for various durations. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the acute and chronic effects of a 4-week hatha yoga (HY) exercise program with different durations (60 min and 30 min) on pulmonary function in sedentary young individuals. Methods: A total of 52 sedentary individuals aged 15-16 years were randomly divided into three groups: 60 min HY group (60 min HY, n = 21), 30 min HY group (30 min HY, n = 15), and control group (CG, n = 16). The 60 mHY and 30 mHY groups underwent a yoga exercise protocol twice a week for 4 weeks, while the participants in the CG were instructed on the physical activity guidelines but did not perform yoga exercises. Pulmonary function profile was assessed using a spirometer device. Results: The forced vital capacity of the groups in the 60 mHY group increased after 4 weeks compared to the 30 mHY and CG groups (P = 0.002, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.10- -0.07). The forced expiratory volume in one second (P < 0.001, 95% CI = -0.03-0.54) improved in the 60 mHY group. Peak expiratory flow was least improved in the CG (P = 0.004, 95% CI =-1.23 to - 0.32). Forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% (FEF25/75) of vital capacity changed the most at 60 mHY (P = 0.004, 95% CI=-1.72 to - 0.49). The forced expiratory time varied with time but did not differ across the groups. Conclusions: A 4-week HY program, particularly with 60-min sessions, significantly improved pulmonary function in sedentary young participants. The findings suggest that the longer the duration of HY, the greater the effects on the pulmonary system, and therefore, we suggest that the effects of yoga programs on different populations should be investigated.Öğe Evaluation of electrocardiographic parameters in amputee football players(Frontiers Media Sa, 2023) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Kurtoglu, Ertugrul; Akguemues, Alkame; Car, Bekir; Eken, Oezguer; Sarbu, Ioan; Ciongradi, Carmen IuliaObjectiveThe present study aimed to compare electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters of amputee football players (AF) with football players without disability (FP) and sedentary individuals without disability (SI). MethodsA total of 32 participants (AF = 9, FP = 11, SI = 12) were included in the study. ECG parameters including P-wave amplitude, P-wave duration, PR interval, QRS duration, RR interval, QT interval, corrected-QT interval (QTc), ST segment duration, Tp-e duration, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios were assessed in all the study participants by using a 12-lead ECG device. OneWay ANOVA Test was used for statistical analysis. ResultsOf all ECG parameters, P-wave amplitude and QTc were significantly higher in the AF group in comparison to FP and SI groups. QRS duration was found to be lower in the AF group when compared to FP and SI groups. Myocardial repolarization parameters including Tp-e duration, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios were similar between groups, as were other parameters such as P-wave duration, PR interval, RR interval, QRS duration and QT interval. ConclusionIt was found that some ECG parameters of amputee football players differ from those with non-disabled players and non-disabled sedentary individuals. These different parameters were within normal limits.Öğe Exploring the Impact of Physical Inactivity on Digital Gaming Attitudes and Addiction among Secondary School Students(Romanian Assoc Balneology, 2024) Kurhan, Sebiha; Car, Bekir; Kurhan, Cihad Onur; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Polat, GulsenThe escalating concern regarding internet and digital game addiction among pre-adolescent children and its potential link to psychological issues prompted this study, aimed at evaluating digital game addiction levels and attitudes towards gaming in secondary school students. Conducted with a sample of 897 students from Ankara, T & uuml;rkiye, the study employed a survey method, utilizing the Attitude Scale towards Digital Game Addiction and Digital Games. Results indicated significant gender differences in addiction levels and attitudes, with boys showing higher scores. Age also played a role, with seventh graders exhibiting the lowest and eighth graders the highest addiction behaviors. Notably, those engaged in martial arts games and using consoles for gaming reported the highest addiction and positive attitude scores. The study underscores the prevalent issue of digital game addiction among youths, suggesting a strong correlation with physical inactivity. It concludes that promoting physical activity is essential not only for physical health but also as a preventative measure against the development of psychological issues stemming from digital game addiction.Öğe Exploring the quadriceps muscle architecture variations in various sports disciplines: a comparative analysis of football, taekwondo, and athletics(Edizioni Minerva Medica, 2024) Ciftci, Rukiye; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Karavas, Erdal; Eken, Ozgur; Soyler, Mehmet; Ardigo, Luca P.BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to comprehensively investigate and compare the architecture of the quadriceps muscle in football, taekwondo, and athletics, shedding light on potential differences and providing valuable insights for athletic training and performance enhancement. METHODS: Thirty-five athletes (football[N.]=14. [7 women, 7 men]; taekwondo [N.]=11. [6 women, 5 men]; athletics [N.]=10. [5 women, 5 men]) aged 17-21 years participated in the study. After participant demographic data were collected, 2D real-time B -mode ultrasound (USG) and right (R) and left (L) leg quadriceps muscle group rectus femoris (RF), vastus intermedius (VI), vastus lateralis, pennation angle (PA), RF cross-sectional area (CSA), and subcutaneous fat thickness were determined. RESULTS: In the study, in female athletes, R-RF+VI (P=0.04, ES:4.34), R -VI (P=0.01, ES: 6.1), R-RF: (P=0.009, ES: 7.9), R-CSA (P=0.04, ES: 5.2), L-RF (P=0.002, ES: 10.4) and L-CSA (P=0.007, ES: 7.7) significant differences were found in favor of the Football group. In male athletes, R-CSA (P=0.004, ES: 9.05), L-RF (P=0.05, ES: 3.5) and L-SFT (P=0.00, ES: 13.6), there was a significant difference in favor of the Football group. L -PA (P=0.009, ES: 6.2). L -PA (P=0.009, ES: 6.2) was significantly higher in the male Taekwondo group. CONCLUSIONS: Our research findings show that there is a significant relationship between the type of exercise performed and the structural differences observed in the quadriceps muscle. Consequently, it is highly recommended to consider the outcomes of our study for enhancing the efficacy of training programs in the domains of football, taekwondo, and athletics.Öğe Immediate effect of exercise and music on attention among school-age youth: A comprehensive experimental study(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Koca, Mehmet Emek; Turkmen, Musa; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Setiewan, Edi; Elkholi, Safaa M.Background/objectives: Low attention level, especially in school-age children in preadolescence and adolescence, affects educational activities. The effects of different types of music and exercise on attention level have been an important subject of research for many years. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of aerobic and yoga exercise intervention program applied synchronously with different types of music on the attention level of primary 2 students studying. Materials and methods: In this study, 19 male (age = 12.63 +/- 0.83 years, height = 145.78 +/- 4.58 cm, weight = 47.73 +/- 7.94 kg, body mass index = 22.43 +/- 3.51 kg/m(2)), 27 female students (age = 12.40 +/- 1.15 years, height = 141.03 +/- 3.34 cm, weight = 42.14 +/- 4.13 kg, body mass index = 21.15 +/- 1.45 kg/m(2)) were included. Participants performed 3 different exercise programs (no exercise [NE], aerobic exercise [AE], and yoga exercise [YE]) without music (NM), listening to traditional music (TM), classical music, and current popular music (PM), after which participants' attention was analyzed using the Burdon Attention Test. Results: In the NE group, participants' attentional levels were lower in the NM condition compared to TM and PM (P = .019, Delta = -7.86, Std. Err = 2.23; P = .001, Delta = -9.74, Std. Err = 2.22, respectively). During AE and YE, different music genres had no effect (P > .05). As a result of the post hoc analysis, the attention test results obtained from the NM and TM genres in the NE protocol were significantly lower than the attention test results obtained from all music genres during AE and YE (P < .05). There was no significant difference between the values obtained from NE-PM and the values obtained from AE and YE (P > .05). At the same time, attention test results did not change between AE and YE during any music genre. Conclusions: In conclusion, exercise and music are important elements to increase the attention level of school-age individuals. In addition, PM may be an important factor in increasing attention levels in these individuals.Öğe The impact of strategic napping on peak expiratory flow and respiratory function in young elite athletes(Bmc, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Aydin, Engin; Car, Bekir; Nobari, HadiRespiratory health is a critical determinant of athletic performance, and the utilization of restorative strategies, such as strategic napping, may offer a competitive edge to athletes. This study investigates the effects of nap duration on the respiratory function of young elite athletes who have achieved top rankings national competitions. Participants engage in three test sessions with varying nap durations: no nap (N0), a 25-minute nap (N25), and a 45-minute nap (N45), with a minimum 72-hour interval between sessions. Respiratory parameters including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, Peak Expiratory Flow rate (PEF), Forced Expiratory Flow at 25-75% of FVC (FEF25-75%), and Forced Expiratory Time (FET) are assessed. Results reveal a significant enhancement in PEF values following a 45-minute nap (N45) compared to the no-nap control (N0) [F1 - 11=7.356, p =.004, eta p2 = 0.401, (95% CI for difference: -1.56 to - 0.056)], indicating a potential positive influence of napping on maximum expiratory flow rate and, consequently, athletes' respiratory performance. While no significant changes are observed in other respiratory parameters across different nap durations, these findings underscore the potential benefits of strategic napping in optimizing respiratory health in young elite athletes.Öğe The insufficiency of recreational exercises in improving cardiovascular fitness: an investigation of ventricular systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial mechanical functions(Bmc, 2023) Akgumus, Alkame; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Aydin, Engin; Balun, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.AimThis study aimed to compare the left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial (LA) mechanical functions of individuals engaging in recreational sports and resistance exercises on a weekly basis.MethodsA total of 43 male amateur athletes were included in this study, of which 24 performed resistance exercises (REs) (29.70 +/- 8.74 year, weight: 81.70 +/- 12.64 kg, height: 176.05 +/- 7.73 cm, BMI: 27.64 +/- 4.97 kg/m2), and 19 participated in recreational football training and were included in the recreational sports group (31.73 +/- 6.82 year, weight: 86.00 +/- 18.52 kg, height: 178.62 +/- 4.95 cm, BMI: 25.55 +/- 3.42 kg/m2). The exercises were standardized according to the weekly exercise frequency and volume. After recording the participants' demographic information, the LV systolic and diastolic parameters and LA mechanical functions were measured using echocardiography (ECHO) and Tissue Doppler Imaging.ResultsSignificant differences were observed in various cardiac parameters between the recreational sports group (REG) and resistance exercise Group (RSG). Specifically, the left ventricular (LV) diastolic diameter, LV end diastolic volume index (LVEDVi), and stroke volume index were notably higher in the REG compared to the RSG (t = 2.804, p = .010, effect size (ES) = 2.10; t = 3.174, p = .003, ES = 0.98; t = 3.36, p = .002, ES = 1.02, respectively). Notably, the RSG exhibited higher values for LV mass index (LVMi) and isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) than the REG (t = 2.843, p = .007, ES = 0.87; t = 2.517, p = .016, ES = 0.76) in terms of LV systolic and diastolic parameters. Regarding left atrial (LA) mechanics, the REG demonstrated increased LA total emptying volume index, LA maximum volume index, LA volume before systole measured at the onset of the p-wave index, and conduit volume index compared to RSG (t = 2.419, p = .020, ES = 0.75; t = 2.669, p = .011, ES = 0.81; t = 2.111, p = .041, ES = 0.64; t = 2.757, p = .009, ES = 0.84, respectively).ConclusionOur study revealed significant variations in LV and LA functions between REG and RSG. Our data suggest that REs led to substantial cardiac remodeling, altering myocardial structure and function. In contrast, the effect of recreational exercise on cardiac adaptation was less pronounced than that of resistance exercise. Consequently, we propose that individuals engaging in recreational exercise should consider modalities that impose higher cardiovascular demand for more effective cardiac conditioning.Öğe Investigation of left atrial mechanical function and left ventricular systolic and diastolic parameters in athletes performing resistance exercise and combined exercise(Bmc, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Akguemues, Alkame; Balun, Ahmet; Aydin, Engin; Kurtoglu, Ertugrul; Car, Bekir; Konar, NurettinSome individuals who go to fitness centers for various purposes perform resistance exercise (RE) alone, while others engage in combined exercise (CE) by including cardio exercises along with RE. Studying the effects of these two different training methods on left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial mechanical function is an important step toward understanding the effects of different types of exercise on cardiac function. This knowledge has significant implications for public health, as it can inform the development of targeted and effective exercise programs that prioritize cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of adverse outcomes. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the LV systolic and diastolic parameters of athletes who engage in RE and CE using ECHO, to contribute to the growing body of literature on the cardiovascular effects of different types of exercise. Forty-two amateur athletes aged between 17 and 52 were included in our study. The participants consisted of the RE (n = 26) group who did only resistance exercise during the weekly exercise period, and the CE group (n = 16) who also did cardio exercise with resistance exercises. After determining sports age (year), weekly exercise frequency (day), and training volume (min) in addition to demographic information of RE and CE groups, left ventricular systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial functions were determined by ECHO. Findings from our study revealed that parameters including the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) (p = .008), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) (p = .020), stroke volume index (SV-I) (p = .048), conduit volume (CV-I) (p = .001), and aortic strain (AS) (p = .017) were notably higher in the RE group compared to the CE group. Also left atrial active emptying vol & uuml;me (LAAEV) of CE was higher than the RE group (p = .031). In conclusion, the cardiac parameters of the RE group showed more athlete's heart characteristics than the CE group. These results may help to optimize the cardiovascular benefits of exercise routines while minimizing the potential risks associated with improper training.Öğe Isokinetic knee strength as a predictor of cardiorespiratory responses during loaded aerobic capacity test in elite athletes(Nature Portfolio, 2025) Car, Bekir; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Atar, Ozdemir; Turkmen, Musa; Eken, Ozgur; Soyler, Mehmet; Aldhahi, Monira I.This study aimed to investigate the predictive capacity of knee isokinetic strength parameters on cardiorespiratory responses during aerobic capacity test (ACT). It provides novel insights into the interplay between muscular strength and cardiorespiratory function through comparative analyses of loaded and unloaded ACT protocols in elite athletes. Thirty elite modern pentathlon athletes (age: 21.43 +/- 0.77 years) underwent isokinetic knee strength assessments at angular velocities of 60 degrees/s and 240 degrees/s. Cardiorespiratory parameters-average breath volume (ABV), average breath frequency (ABF), auxiliary oxygen density (AOD), and heart rate (HR)-were recorded during the Bruce Protocol conducted under two conditions: unloaded and with a 10 kg loaded vest. Relationships between isokinetic strength metrics and cardiorespiratory parameters were analyzed using linear regression models. There were no significant differences in ABV, ABF, or AOD between loaded and unloaded ACT conditions (p > .05). However, HR was significantly lower during loaded ACT (p < .05). Linear regression revealed that at 60 degrees/s, several knee strength parameters, including peak torque extension (PT-EXT), peak torque flexion (PT-FLX), total work flexion (TW-FLX), average power flexion (AP-FLX), and agonist strength (AGANT), significantly predicted ABV during loaded ACT (R-2 = 0.804, p = .004). A similar pattern was observed at 240 degrees/s, where comparable predictors explained a significant variance in ABV (R-2 = 0.761, p = .012). No significant predictive relationships were identified during unloaded ACT. Isokinetic knee strength parameters significantly predict cardiorespiratory responses during loaded ACT but not during unloaded protocols. These findings suggest that isokinetic strength assessments may be a valuable tool for optimizing ACT prescription and monitoring training adaptations in elite athletes.Öğe Pes planus level affects counter movement jump performance: A study on amateur male and female volleyball players(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Demir, Gozde; Turkmen, Musa; Setiawan, Edi; Alotaibi, Madawi H.The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pes planus level on counter movement jump (CMJ) performance parameters in amateur female and male volleyball players. In this context, amateur volleyball players aged between 18 and 23 years actively playing in the university school volleyball team were included in the study. Pes planus levels of the participants were analyzed using the navicular drop test (NDT). My Jump Lab application was used for CMJ measurement. Within the scope of CMJ, the participants' jump height, force, relative force, power, relative power, average speed, take-off speed, impulse, and flying time were analyzed. According to the linear regression results between NDT and CMJ parameters, force in males (t = 12.93, P = .049) and average speed in females (t = -3.52, P = .017) were significantly associated with NDT. NDT was similar in men and women (P > .05). However, all CMJ parameters were highly different between genders (P < .001). In the correlation analysis between sport age and physical characteristics and CMJ parameters; height (r = .386, P = .046), weight (r = .569, P = .002), leg length (r = .389, P = .045), foot length (r =. 558, P = .005), foot width (r = .478, P = .018), force (r = .407, P = .039), impulse (r = .460, P = .018) parameters, and sport age. The results suggest that the average speed in females and force in males both significantly influenced NDT, highlighting the significance of both factors in predicting NDT scores. Moreover, all CMJ measures showed significant variations between genders, although the NDT scores did not. Furthermore, the correlation analysis demonstrated a strong correlation between a number of physical attributes and CMJ parameters, highlighting the multifaceted nature of athletic performance and indicating the possible impact of these attributes on CMJ results.Öğe Proactive personality and positional competition: exploring the impact on soccer players' performance and gender differences(Bmc, 2025) Car, Bekir; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Sufaru, Constantin; Ciaccioni, Simone; Baskaya, Gizem; Panaet, Elena AdelinaAim The study aims to explore the relationship between proactive personality and positional competition in soccer players, considering factors like gender, age, position, and years of active participation in the sport. Method Quantitative data collection methods were employed, including the Proactive Personality Scale and Positional Competition in Sports Scale, along with a custom personal information form. The study involved 242 soccer players (average age: 20.60 years, 39% female) from semi-amateur soccer clubs in Ankara province, surveyed during the 2022-2023 season. Results The study found no significant differences in proactive personality and positional competition among soccer players based on their age and position (p > .05). However, gender differences were significant, with male players scoring higher than females in receiving and providing teammate support, communication, and overall positional competition in sports. Conclusion Proactive personality can be a determinant of positional competition in sports. Moreover, these findings may provide important contributions to the development of talent identification, athlete development programs and coaching strategies that aim to increase competitiveness and success in positional contexts. In addition, in the present study, it can be concluded that following athletes over time is an important phenomenon for proactive personality and athletic development.Öğe Relationship between mental endurance, mental training, and emotional intelligence in elite athletes(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Car, Bekir; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Baskonus, Turan; Elkholi, Safaa M.Physical strength alone is not enough in today's sports' society, where athletes' performance is geared around winning; the body's demand for mental training is growing every day. The aim of this study is to examine the mental endurance, mental training and emotional intelligence levels of elite level individual athletes; to evaluate the relationships between these psychological variables in a multifactorial structure and to determine whether these variables show significant differences according to demographic characteristics such as gender, age, education level and duration of sportsmanship. This will offer useful strategies to maximize the performance of elite athletes. In this cross-sectional study, a quantitative research method was applied using the survey model. A total of 242 elite Turkish athletes competing in individual sports branches in the Turkish National Teams in 2023 to 2024 participated in the study. Athletes' data was gathered and examined between January 02 and March 02, 2024. The data were collected using the Sport Mental Endurance Inventory, Sport Mental Training Inventory, and Sport Emotional Intelligence Scale. Nonparametric tests were applied for statistical analysis. The findings of this study showed that there were significant differences in mental endurance, mental training, and emotional intelligence levels according to gender, age, and sport branch variables. It was found that male athletes aged between 26 to 33 years had higher levels of mental endurance and emotional intelligence. In addition, it was determined that female athletes aged 21 years and over had higher levels of mental training and emotional intelligence. High positive correlations were found between mental endurance and emotional intelligence and between mental training and emotional intelligence. The development of mental endurance and emotional intelligence is of great importance for elite athletes to improve their success and performance. These findings suggest that mental endurance and emotional intelligence levels of athletes may differ according to demographic characteristics such as gender, age, and sport branches. These factors may have significant effects on athletes' performances.Öğe Sex-Specific Associations Between 2D:4D Digit Ratio and Physical Fitness in Prepubertal Children: Evidence from Standardized Agility, Strength, and Endurance Assessments(Mdpi, 2025) Akgul, Fatih; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Ciftci, Rukiye; Eken, Ozgur; Car, Bekir; Sanal, Alperen; Aldhahi, Monira I.Background: The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) serves as a non-invasive proxy for prenatal androgen exposure. While its relationship with adult athletic ability is well documented, evidence for its association with childhood physical fitness remains inconsistent, and links between 2D:4D and objective fitness measures in prepubertal children are unclear. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 338 prepubertal children (181 girls, 157 boys; aged 5-12 years) underwent precise measurement of right- and left-hand 2D:4D ratios (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.94). Physical fitness was evaluated using standardized tests: the Illinois agility run, bent-arm hang, and standing long jump. Results: Among boys, higher 2D:4D ratios were modestly associated with prolonged bent-arm hang performance (beta = 0.19, q = 0.04) and shorter Illinois agility times (beta = -0.19, q = 0.04). No significant associations were observed in girls. All effect sizes were small, suggesting subtle, sex-dependent influences rather than robust predictors of performance. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prenatal hormonal environment may exert a limited, sex-specific influence on early physical fitness characteristics. Although biologically informative, the observed associations are insufficient for direct application in talent identification in sports. Longitudinal research incorporating direct hormonal measurements and broader populations is recommended to clarify developmental mechanisms and causal pathways.Öğe The effect of a combined exercise program on different surfaces on gastrocnemius muscle activation in young athletes(Bmc, 2025) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Ciftci, Rukiye; Konar, Nurettin; Uzgur, Kamil; Eken, Ozgur; Ceylan, Halil IbrahimAim The aim of this study was to examine the effect of an exercise program (consisting of agility, balance, and coordination exercises) on the gastrocnemius muscle activation in young athletes on two different surfaces, sand (sea sand) and tartan (athletics track). Materials and methods Sixty-five young (15-17 years old) athletes (51% male, 49% female) were voluntarily included in this study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups as sand exercise group (SEG; n = 34) and tartan exercise group (TEG; n = 31). Participants were subjected to a 4-week (3 days) training program on the sand and tartan surfaces in addition to their normal athletic training. Participants were asked to perform an isometric plantar flexion movement at maximum strength with a stationary Active Force 2 hand dynamometer. During this movement, the participants'gastrocnemius muscle activation was determined using Neurotrac Myoplus Pro surface electromyography (sEMG) biofeedback device with electrodes placed on the gastrocnemius muscle before and after the 4-week training program. Results In the gastrocnemius muscle of the right leg, significant increases in average EMG activation were observed in the post-test compared to the pre-test (p < .05). The interaction groups*test duration had a significant effect on average value. Compared to SEG, it was observed that the average value increased significantly more in TEG after4 weeks. There was also a significant increase in interquartile range (IQR) and peak value in the post-test compared to the pre-test, regardless of the study groups (p < .05). For the left leg, the average, IQR, peak and power EMG activation increased significantly in the post-test compared to the pre-test, while the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) value decreased significantly in the post-test compared to the pre-test (p < .05). Furthermore, the groups*test times interaction for all parameter values for the left leg was not statistically significant over the four weeks (p > .05). Conclusion Gastrocnemius muscle activation increased after the exercise program on both surfaces. However, results should be considered with caution, since not all the athletes have increased and not by the same magnitude.Öğe The Effect of Training Experience on Cardiac Morphology in Resistance Exercise Practitioners: A Study on Left Ventricular Systolic and Diastolic Parameters and Left Atrium Mechanical Functions(Mdpi, 2024) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Kurtoglu, Ertugrul; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Muracki, Jaroslaw; Setiawan, Edi; Alotaibi, Madawi H.Background and Objectives: Resistance exercises (REs) are a type of physical activity that individuals from many age groups have been doing recreationally, both as amateurs and professionally, in their daily lives in recent years. It is crucial to understand the effects of such sports on cardiac morphology in order to maximize the benefit of training and to tailor the training content accordingly. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between training experience (TE) and left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial (LA) mechanical function in healthy subjects who regularly performed RE for different durations. Materials and Methods: Forty-five healthy adults [age = 28.91 +/- 10.30 years, height = 178.37 +/- 5.49 cm, weight = 83.15 +/- 13.91 kg, body mass index = 26.03 +/- 3.42 kg/m(2), TE = 7.28 +/- 6.49 years] who performed RE between 1 year and 20 years were included in our study. The transthoracic echocardiograms (ECHOs) of the participants were evaluated by the cross-sectional research method, which is often used to understand the current situation in a given time period. Correlations between TE and LV systolic and diastolic parameters and LA mechanical function were analyzed. Results: As a result, interventricular septal thickness (IVS; r = 0.33, p = 0.028), the aortic diameter systole (ADs; r = 0.56, p < 0.001), and aortic diameter diastole (ADd; r = 0.58, p < 0.001) were positively correlated with TE, indicating associations with increased left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and reduced ventricular compliance, while the aortic strain (AS; r = -0.44, p = 0.002), aortic distensibility (AD; r = -0.62, p < 0.001), and diastolic flow parameters including E (r = -0.41, p = 0.005), E/A (r = -0.38, p = 0.011), and E/Em (r = -0.31, p = 0.041) were negatively correlated with TE, reflecting impairments in diastolic function. Conclusions: This study showed that diastolic parameters were adversely affected in chronic RE. Therefore, we think that these individuals may have decreased relaxation and filling functions of the heart, which may also reduce adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues. In this context, cohort studies are needed to analyze in detail the reasons for the decrease in diastolic parameters in these individuals.
