Theses and Dissertations - Department of Kinesiology
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Item The image of the Southern Branch, American Public Health Association held by its members(University of Alabama Libraries, 1969) Hering, Frederick William; University of Alabama TuscaloosaItem Recovery in level 8-10 women's USA artistic gymnastics(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Buckner, Stephen Brooks; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThis study assessed physical performance in women's artistic gymnastics following three variable recovery periods. Participants included fifteen female gymnasts who had competed at USA Gymnastics (USAG) levels 8 - 10 within at least one year prior to the study. Each testing session consisted of a warm-up followed by four muscular endurance tests and one explosive maximal test. Assessments included pull-ups, leg lifts, handstand push-ups, push-ups and vertical jump. After the performance assessments, the participants completed a typical practice session. The performance measures were reassessed at the beginning of each of the recovery periods of 24, 48, and 72 hours in a counterbalanced design. Performance assessments were converted into Z-scores and then averaged for a composite session Z-score. The composite session Z-scores were compared to evaluate different durations of recovery. Composite Z's were significantly lower (p=.000), after the, 24 (z=-1.10) and the 48 hour (z=-0.71) recovery periods compared to baseline. However, there was no difference in scores (p=1.00) between the baseline and 72 hours (z=0.004) recovery. On average, full recovery required 72 hours under the conditions of this study.Item Energy cost and thermal contribution of components of protective firefighter gear(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Casaru, Catalina; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaFirefighter turn-out gear negatively impacts firefighters' ability to dissipate heat and increases energy expenditure consequently decreasing work tolerance and efficiency. The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of individual components of firefighter turn-out gear to the energy expenditure and heat retention during work in a hot environment. Male participants (n=8) (Mean ± SD: 24.8 ± 2.6 yr, 73.1 ± 9.8 kg, 181 ± 4 cm, 57.3 ± 8.8 ml*kg⁻¹*min⁻¹ VO₂ max) worked for 40 min (12 min walk followed by 3 min of 10 arm curls) on a treadmill at a speed and grade eliciting 50% of VO₂ max in a heat chamber (WBGT: 33°C, RH: 40-45%) while wearing firefighter turn-out gear and a breathing apparatus (SCBA). Energy expenditure was measured during work to assess the energy costs of five firefighter turn-out gear configurations (full gear, trousers, coat, SCBA alone, and peripherals: helmet, hood and gloves (HHG)). Mean walking and arm-curl VO₂'s were not significantly different (p > 0.05) among any of the gear combinations. Mean delta (T₄₀-T₀) heart rate (ΔHR) was significantly higher (p = 0.01) for full gear (85 ± 25 beats*min⁻¹) compared to trousers (53 ± 16 beats*min⁻¹), SCBA (57 ± 13 beats*min⁻¹), and HHG (58 ± 17 beats*min⁻¹). In addition, mean delta body core temperature (ΔTre) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for full gear (1.4 ± 0.4°C) compared to coat (0.8 ± 0.3°C), SCBA (0.8 ± 0.4°C), and HHG (0.8 ± 0.2°C). Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) for full gear (9 ± 3) compared to trousers (6 ± 2), coat (6 ± 3), and HHG (6 ± 2). Each component of the firefighter turn-out gear similarly increased VO2 and hampered heat dissipation in a hot and humid environment. Although, the SCBA accounted for over half of the total weight of the firefighter gear, it made a similar contribution to the thermoregulatory demands as other pieces of equipment. Availability of lighter and safer protective clothing and SCBA could reduce physiological stress and potentially improve rescue time, but there appear no clear advantages to improving any particular piece of gear.Item Effects of different types of warm-up on swimming performance in collegiate swimmers(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Balilionis, Gytis; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThe purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of three different types of warm-up on swimming performance in NCAA Division I swimmers. Eight male and eight female swimmers utilized three warm-up protocols prior to performing 50-yard (45.72-meter) freestyle swim trials each trial in counterbalanced order and separated by 48 hours. The warm-up protocols consisted of: (1) no warm-up, (2) short warm-up (50-yards at 40% maximal effort and 50-yards at 90%), (3) regular warm-up (swimmers own pre-competition warm-up). Following the warm-up regimen, participants rested for three minutes and completed a 50-yard freestyle swim trial. Heart rate pre- and post- trial, diving distance, reaction time, post warm-up RPE, post 50-yard trial RPE, and stroke count were measured. Times for 50-yard swim were significantly (p = 0.03) different among warm-ups. Mean 50-yard time was significantly (p = 0.01) faster after regular warm-up (24.95 ± 1.53 sec) compared to short warm-up (25.26 ± 1.61 sec) and approached significance between no- and regular- warm-ups (p = 0.06); however, no significant difference was found between no- (25.19 ±1.54 sec) and short warm-ups (p = 0.59) on 50-yard time. Individual data indicated that 19% of participants performed their best 50-yard time after short warm-up, 37% after no-, and 44% after regular warm-up. Heart rate was significantly (p = 0.01) higher after regular warm-up (100 ± 13 b/min) compared to no warm-up (88 ± 18 b/min) and approached significance between short- and regular warm-ups (p = 0.07); however, no significant difference was observed between no- and short warm-ups (92 ± 19 b/min) (p = 0.32). RPE was significantly (p <0.001) lower after no warm-up (6.3 ± 0.5) compared to short warm-up (10.1 ± 1.7) and regular warm-up (12.1 ± 1.0). No significant difference was found in reaction time (p = 0.96), RPE post 50-yard time trial (p = 0.11), dive distance (p = 0.67), and stroke count (p = 0.23) among warm-ups. In conclusion, regular warm-up was better than short warm-ups to achieve the fastest mean 50-yard freestyle time but individuals differed in their response to different warm-ups.Item Life histories of exemplary American physical educators(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Cazers, Gunars; Curtner-Smith, Matthew; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThe purpose of the following article-style dissertation is to present the life histories of three exemplary physical educators, to give them voice and explore ways in which they experienced marginalization and how they persevered in spite of difficulties they experienced in their careers. The participants include: (a) Robin, a female elementary school teacher who taught for 25 years, (b) "Karen" an assistant professor of kinesiology with a disability and, (c) Dr. Archie Wade, an African American professor emeritus of physical education who taught 38 years. The life history method links the three studies together. All participants were interviewed three times for approximately 1 to 3 1/2 hours. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed qualitatively. In the study of Robin, her data were analyzed deductively according to categories found in occupational socialization literature. The Dr. Wade study included the theories of self-efficacy and stereotype threat. The studies found that all educators experienced marginalization in some form. Robin experienced marginalization based upon gender and subject status. Her life history showed how her initial coaching orientation shifted to a strong teaching orientation. Aspects of occupational socialization supported, for the most part, this shift. Karen's life history demonstrated how she is continually marginalized by inaccessibility to buildings, but how she has worked to open the doors of academia to athletes with disabilities through the creation of wheelchair sports program. Karen experienced marginalization based upon subject status, gender, and ableness, but often she was successful in working to overcome the barriers. Throughout his life before and during the Civil Rights Movement in the American Southeast, Dr. Wade faced racial discrimination. This struggle is chronicled in his life history that includes how attended segregated schools, became a professional baseball player, and used lessons learned through sport to persevere through a 38 year career in academia. Dr. Wade was partly influenced by stereotype threat, and the theory of self-efficacy was used to explain how Dr. Wade could persevere despite difficult circumstances. Besides the method, the life histories share little in common besides the central role of sport in the participants' lives.Item Effect of different warm-ups and upper-body vibration on performance in Masters Swimmers(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Nepocatych, Svetlana; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of no, short, or regular warm-up and Upper-Body Vibration (UBV) only or UBV+ short warm-up on swimming performance in Masters Swimmers. Six females and four males, aged 24-50, healthy master swimmers volunteered to participate in the study. Participants completed all assigned warm-ups (no, short, regular, UBV-only, or UBV + short) in counterbalanced order, rested for three minutes and completed a 50-yard (45.7 m) freestyle maximal performance time trial. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) were measured post warm-up and post 50-yd time trial. No significant difference (p = 0.987) was found among no, short or regular warm-up regarding 50-yd freestyle time (29.0 ± 3.7, 29.0 ± 3.6, and 29.1 ± 3.4 s, respectively). No significant difference (p = 0.563) was found among regular, UBV-only or UBV + short warm-ups regarding 50-yd freestyle time (29.1 ± 3.6, 28.9 ± 3.4, and 29.1 ± 3.6 s, respectively). RPE after no warm up (6 ± 0) was significantly lower compared to after short (13 ± 2, p < 0.001) or regular warm-up (12 ± 2, p < 0.001). RPE after regular warm-up was higher (12 ± 2) compared to UBV-only warm-up (9 ± 2), approaching statistical significance (p = 0.059). RPE post 50-yd for no, short or regular warm-up and after regular, UBV-only or UBV + short were not significantly different (p =0.76, p = 0.216). HR after no, short or regular warm-up before 50-yards was not significantly different (p = 0.062); however, a significantly higher (p = 0.023) HR was observed after regular warm-up (88 ± 15 b/min) compared to UBV + short (75 ± 9 b/min). HR post 50-yd after regular warm-up (148 ± 15 b/min) was significantly higher compared to no (136 ±20 b/min) p = 0.001, UBV-only (139 ± 12 b/min) p = 0.005 and UBV + short ( 138 ± 14 b/min) p = 0.013, but not short (142 ± 17 b/min) warm-up (p = 0.077). In conclusion, Master Swimmers may perform the same or better with no or short and UBV-only or UBV + short, compared to regular warm-up.Item Congruence of practice in Alabama schools with national and state policy texts for physical education(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Asola, Eugene Fadola; Curtner-Smith, Matthew; University of Alabama TuscaloosaCase study work on the occupational socialization of physical education teachers in Alabama suggests a major incongruence between official, policy-described physical education and actual practice. To counter the negative effects of occupational socialization, Curtner-Smith (2009) suggested that sport pedagogists follow the lead of Evans and Penney in the United Kingdom (e.g., Penney, 2008) and Rink and associates in the United States (e.g., Rink & Mitchell, 2002) taking more of an activist approach in their work by engaging in research with a political/policy focus. The purposes of this study were to (a) describe what was occurring in the name of physical education in the state of Alabama and (b) illustrate discrepancies between teachers' practice and national and state policy texts. Two hundred forty-eight physical education teachers (137 elementary, 74 middle school, and 37 high school teachers) completed the Physical Education in Alabama Survey (PEAS), a 20-item instrument designed to obtain demographic and programmatic information about physical education teachers and teaching in Alabama. Frequency counts were made and percentages calculated for forced-choice answer questions on the PEAS. Analytic induction was used to code and categorize data generated by open-ended questions. Frequency counts were then made and percentages calculated for each inductive category. Key findings were that physical education programs in Alabama were often congruent with national and state policy in terms of teachers' role emphasis, stated goals and objectives, and assessment techniques when formal evaluation was carried out. Time allocated for the subject was also equal to or exceeded national and state minimums at the elementary and middle school levels. Conversely, areas of non-compliance or which often contradicted national and state policy texts were formal grading criteria, the allocation of time for pupils to engage in "free play," and content. A concerning number of teachers were not certified to teach physical education or conduct formal evaluations. Class sizes were much larger than suggested or required at many elementary and middle schools. Major implications included the need for improved physical education teacher education, state enforcement of its own existing policy, and state provision of more rigorous guidelines regarding content and curriculum models.Item Impact of occupational socialization on the perspectives and practices of sport pedagogy doctoral students(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) Lee, Hong-Min; Curtner-Smith, Matthew; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThe theoretical framework of occupational socialization has been used to good effect to explain why preservice and inservice physical education (PE) teachers think and teach as they do. The purpose of this study was to use the same lens to examine the perspectives and practices of a cohort of sport pedagogy doctoral students in terms of PE teaching and physical education teacher education (PETE). Participants were 12 doctoral students enrolled in one university's sport pedagogy doctoral program. Data were collected through formal and informal interviews, observations, and self-reflective posters. They were analyzed using analytic induction and constant comparison. Key findings were that doctoral students espoused both conservative and liberal forms of PE and PETE and that these views were shaped by the interaction of the various phases of their socialization. Doctoral students recalled being oriented to both teaching and coaching. The longer coaching orientations remained intact the more likely they were to espouse conservative versions of PE and PETE. Prior to their graduate work, the pattern of socialization for the cohort of students was similar to that illustrated in other studies. What was new, however, was the power and potency of the students' graduate education or secondary professional socialization. This appeared to be primarily due to influential faculty, a practitioner focus in master's degree programs, and engagement in undergraduate PETE.Item Quantitative and qualitative recovery in trained females after an exhaustive resistance training protocol, and with a post-exercise carbohydrate-protein beverage(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) Campbell, Jason Allen; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaIn a series of three investigations, recovery was investigated in females following resistance exercise over varying recovery periods. Additionally, recovery when using a post-exercise carbohydrate (CHO-ONLY) or carbohydrate-protein (CHO-PRO) beverage was examined. Ten resistance trained females (21.1± 1.4 years of age) performed a baseline trial of three sets of eight exercises at their ten repetition maximum (10-RM). Later they completed four counterbalanced trials following 24, 48, 72, or 96 hours of recovery. No significant change (p > 0.05) occurred in group mean repetitions or ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) for any recovery period. Individual results showed 10% of participants recovered after 24 h, 80% following 48 h, and 70% at 72 h and 96 h of recovery. Soreness ratings were higher (p < 0.05) than baseline at all time points, diminished over time, and at 48 h was correlated to the group mean for repetitions (r = -0.77, p = 0.01). Participants performed the same exercise protocol, consumed either a CHO-PRO or CHO-ONLY beverage and attempted to replicate their performance 24 h later. Group mean repetitions, soreness, and RPE were similar (p > 0.05) with both beverages. With CHO-ONLY, 56% of participants recovered in 24 h versus 33% with CHO-PRO (versus 10% in first study). These findings suggest post-exercise consumption of a CHO-PRO or CHO-ONLY beverage may be advantageous for some exercisers. Lastly, the agreement between perceived recovery status (PRS) scores and actual recovery was measured following rest periods of varying length after resistance training. The PRS demonstrated high specificity for recovery for change in group mean repetitions (100%), total repetitions (95%) performed, and high sensitivity (100%) for fatigue when participants indicated a score <5. In summary, trained females were recovered within 24 h following resistance training, despite considerable inter-subject variability and significant soreness. CHO-PRO and CHO-ONLY produced no change in the group mean for repetitions performed (p > 0.05), 24 h after weight lifting. However, supplementation with these beverages may be useful for those responsive to this type of nutritional intervention. Finally, the PRS scale may help identify individuals who have reached recovery before beginning a subsequent exercise session.Item Motivational climate creation, teaching styles use, and hegemonic masculinity reinforcement in sport education(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) Parker, Mitchum Bradley; Curtner-Smith, Matthew; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThis study's purpose was to compare Sport Education (SE) to the Multi-Activity (MA) model to determine if SE created a superior motivational climate, encouraged teachers to use more indirect teaching styles, and discover if SE supported or combatted Hegemonic Masculinity (HM). Achievement Goal Theory, Mosston's Spectrum Theory, and Connell's Theory of Hegemonic Masculinity underpinned this investigation. Quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis were utilized. The video data bank employed by Parker and Curtner-Smith (2005) of one male and one female Preservice Teacher (PT) in the southeastern United States teaching 10 MA and10 SE units in an early field experience (EFE) was recoded with two systematic observation instruments, the Physical Education Climate Assessment Instrument (PECAI) and the Instrument for Identifying Teaching Styles (IFITS). The interpretive techniques of non-participant observation and extensive notetaking, document analysis, stimulated recall, formal and informal interviews were conducted with two additional PTs (also 1 male/1 female in the southeast), each teaching two units of SE during their student teaching. Descriptive statistics and lesson-by-lesson profiles were generated for PECAI and IFITS data. A chi-square test for independence and independent t-tests were employed to compare the motivational climate created and the different teaching styles employed in SE vs MA during the EFE. Analytic induction and constant comparison were applied to develop themes reinforcing or combatting HM during the two PTs' student teaching. No significant differences were found between the motivational climates created or teaching styles used in SE and MA during the EFE. HM was reinforced during the SE units of the PTs' student teaching. Possible reasons for these findings could be the inexperience or prior socialization of the PTs leading to conservative deliveries of the SE model or the curricular scaffolding and pedagogies of SE that limit the motivational climates that can be created, the teaching styles that can be used, or the opportunities to contest HM. Future research should explore an interconnection of these topics and employ multiple methodologies and focus on multiple and more extensive units of SE with veteran teachers who possess a teaching orientation and more experience imparting well taught SE.Item College wheelchair athletes' reflections on their physical education experiences(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) Hargreaves, Jean Ann; Hardin, L. Brent; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThis study examined the reflections of 10 college wheelchair athletes with physical disabilities on their prior physical education experiences in elementary, middle, and high school. Using qualitative techniques, each participant was interviewed individually twice and then two separate focus group interviews were held. Each participant brought an artifact with them to their assigned focus group interview that represented their prior physical education experiences. Both the individual and focus group interviews were designed to establish how these college wheelchair athletes with physical disabilities reflect back on their prior physical education experiences. Using analytic induction, the data analysis revealed five themes: (a) the participants felt they were included in physical education, but not really equally and meaningfully; (b) physical fitness testing was the most remembered physical education experience; (c) the participants' sporting experiences were recognized by the school; (d) overall, the participants' physical education experiences were enjoyable; and (e) the participants have suggestions for physical educators on including individuals with disabilities in physical education. Also, within four of these overall themes, several sub-themes emerged. Although this study was limited to the reflections of these 10 college wheelchair athletes with physical disabilities on their prior physical education experiences, the themes found in this study provide a basis for future studies on how individuals with physical disabilities experience physical education.Item Rock climbing training techniques, reliability, and recovery in weight-assisted pull-ups(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) Bacon, Nicholas T.; Bishop, Phillip A.; Richardson, Mark T.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThree studies were conducted on rock climbing. Study one investigated common rock climbing training techniques among competitive rock climbers via a questionnaire. Study two evaluated the reliability of open-handed and pinch grip weight-assisted pull-ups and whether chalk improved pull-up performance. Study three investigated two different recovery modalities, concerning closed-handed and open-handed weight-assisted pull-up performance, both of which are important abilities for rock climbers. The frequency of rock climbing training techniques (RCTT) as part of study one, was also investigated in competitive rock climbers (n = 174 usable). Chi square analyses revealed differences among age groups and three questions; differences also existed between gender and seven questions. Principal component analysis revealed five factors which explained 62% of the variance in questionnaire variability. Factor one, the primary RCTT, explained 25% of the variance in questionnaire variability. Some of the primary RCTT included: performing pull-ups, dead hangs, and utilizing various rock climbing training equipment such as fingerboards, campus boards and rock rings. While factors two, three and four pertained to climbing, explained 30% of the variance. The remaining 7% of the variance was explained by factor five, training from various structures. During study two (the reliability study) nine recreationally active male climbers performed six counterbalanced trials of open-handed and pinch grip weight-assisted pull-ups to failure with 72 hours of recovery. In four trials, the climbers used chalk during open-handed and pinch grip weight assisted pull-ups, but the remaining two trials, were without chalk. These additional trials allowed for the evaluation of the contribution of chalk to open-handed and pinch grip weight-assisted pull-up performance. Climbers were assisted 50% of body weight for the open-handed and pinch grip pull-ups. No significant differences were found between the open-handed vs. pinch grip or chalked vs. no chalked trials for rating of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate (HR), perceived recovery scale (PRS) and session-RPE (S-RPE). Intraclass Rs for test-retest of the open-handed and pinch grip weight-assisted pull-ups were 0.99 and 0.96, respectively. However, Bland-Altman analysis revealed large errors indicating weight-assisted pull-ups using open-handed (95% error range: upper limit 6.34, lower limit -3.90) and pinch grips (95% error range: upper limit 5.35, lower limit -6.91) were only somewhat reliable. Chalk improved performance in both open-handed (mean=22.8 ± 4.53 vs. mean no chalk = 19.7 ± 4.39 reps; p = 0.006) and pinch grip (mean = 14.4 ± 4.47 vs. mean no chalk = 9.1 ± 4.83 reps; p = 0.007) weight-assisted pull-ups when compared to the non-chalked trials. In the third study, (recovery), each participant performed four counterbalanced trials of closed-handed and open-handed weight-assisted pull ups to failure after 72 hours of recovery. For each trial, participants performed three sets to failure of weight-assisted pull-ups using either the closed-handed or open-handed grip assisted 50% of body weight. Treatments were ~ 20 minutes of passive recovery or ice bags applied, between pull-up sets, to the upper-arm, immediately distal to the shoulder. No differences were found pre- to post- treatments for hand-grip strength, HR, RPE, PRS, and S-RPE or comfort scales among trials. Participants completed significantly fewer open-handed pull-ups (p = 0.003) than closed-handed pull-ups. Ice bag recovery maintained (p= 0.001) subsequent open-handed pull-up performance for sets two and three when compared to passive recovery. For closed-handed pull-ups, no differences (p = 0.31) were found between ice bag and passive recovery. Overall, results suggest pulling and hanging movements using sport-specific equipment predominate as a primary RCTT. Both the open-handed and pinch grip weight-assisted pull-ups were found to be somewhat reliable, while using chalk with these grips improved weight-assisted pull-up performance. Compared to passive recovery, ice bags were found to be superior for open-handed but not closed-handed pull-ups.Item Beverage choice impact on hydration and performance for the recreational athlete(University of Alabama Libraries, 2010) O'Neal, Eric Kyle; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThree studies examined hydration and performance for recreational exercisers (REC). Three beverages (flavored caloric (CE) and non-caloric (NCE) electrolyte-containing sport drinks and water (W)) were served to male (n = 24) and female (n = 14) REC in a counter-balanced order during 1-h of moderate intensity cycling (mean ± SD heart rate = 146 ± 4 beats/min) in an environment of 25° C wet bulb globe temperature. The volume of beverage served was equal to sweat loss measured (mean ± SE = 834 ± 59 mL) in a familiarization trial with no fluid intake during exercise. No differences (p > .05) among beverages were found in: performance (peak and mean power) during a set of three Wingate Anaerobic Tests completed after cycling, perceived exertion, or mood states among beverages. After exercise in the familiarization trial with no fluid intake, participants drank ad libitum for 30 min with all beverages available. Consumption volume among beverages did not differ (p > .05). Participants reported that replacing 100% of sweat loss was an appropriate volume and did not result in stomach discomfort for the majority of individuals in fluid intake during exercise sessions. Total intake in the familiarization session when fluids were consumed in recovery only (mean ± SD, 971 ± 375 mL) was less (p < .001) than when consumed during both exercise and recovery (W (1,415 ± 560 mL,), NCE (1,244 ± 538 mL, p < .001), and CE (1,196 ± 444 mL), and W was greater than CE (p = .01)). The survey found decreased performance (69%) and heat-illness (45%) believed to be related to dehydration among runners was very common. Almost all (94%) of participants (n = 276) reported drinking during outdoor runs in warm weather. Faster higher volume runners believed that consuming sport beverages would result in improved performance and better hydration than water. For REC exercising for ~1 h, replacing sweat loss during exercise and drinking ad libitum afterwards, should result in a fluid intake level that will return body mass close to pre-exercise level, be tolerable, and result in no decrease in performance when W or CE are used instead of CE.Item Life history of expert wheelchair and standing basketball coaches(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Douglas, Scott; Hardin, L. Brent; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThe purpose of this study was to extend previous research on coaching and teaching by developing an in-depth understanding of the process by which expert wheelchair and standing collegiate basketball coaches acquire, develop, and implement the knowledge and essential attributes necessary to succeed in professional coaching. This was accomplished by examining, through a life history approach, the coaches' reflections about their sporting backgrounds, processes of acquiring coaching knowledge, and knowledge sources and attributes that were most meaningful toward their growth as successful coaches. One researcher observed, interviewed, and analyzed two successful collegiate head basketball coaches while focusing on the life events of each coach to illustrate how their background and experiences in coaching and sport have shaped their expert coaching practice, knowledge, application of that knowledge, and helped identify the essential attributes necessary to become an expert coach. Using analytic induction, the data analysis revealed five themes: (a) for love of the game, (b) the coach as teacher and learner, (c) the thinking coach, (d) values and principles as attributes, and (e) communication. The findings provide a glimpse into the lives of expert wheelchair and standing basketball coaches and identify the most prominent knowledge sources and attributes of the expert coach.Item Physiological challenges in harsh environments: nutritional strategies for military and occupational operations(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Zhang, Yang; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaWhen humans are exposed to harsh environments, physical and mental performance is often substantially degraded. Few practical strategies are available to sustain performance under such conditions. The first of three studies evaluated the possible diuretic effect of caffeine following exercising in the heat. This is important for many U.S. military personnel who are engaged in combat situations in the Middle East, as dehydration may pose serious health issues. Eight participants completed four trials either with or without caffeine prior to the exercise and undertook a 3-h recovery period with or without fluid replenishment. Results revealed that ingestion of caffeine did not increase urine volume and did not increase fluid requirement during rest. In the second study, we examined the effects of menthol and caffeine on ventilatory and perceptual responses during simulated firefighting in the heat. Ten participants completed three trials, either with caffeine, menthol lozenges, or placebo. Contrary to the literature, menthol actually increased ventilatory loads (i.e., V_E , VO_2 ) and did not improve thermal or breathing comfort. The third study examined the effects of repeated dynamic exercise in the heat on mood and cognitive performance. Exercise in the heat substantially deteriorated mood states, but cognition was well maintained despite being at or near maximal heart rate, hypohydration, and hyperthermic state, suggesting possible coping mechanisms while working in multi-stressors situations. Neither caffeine nor menthol reduced the adverse impact of exercise-heat stress on mood. Current results provided information for military and occupational personnel performing duties in hot environments: (1) there was no evidence that caffeine ingestion in moderation would impair fluid balance during prolonged exercise in the heat and recovery; (2) perceptual and mood state degraded to a similar extent as physical performance; (3) caffeine and menthol exerted no ergogenic effect for firefighting in the heat. More efforts are needed to help those at-risk workers to cope with multi-stressors environments in order to maintain operational efficiency.Item Clothing fabric effects on physiological and comfort responses(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Balilionis, Gytis; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaDuring exercise and in hot environments, the main cooling mechanism is through sweat evaporation. However, clothing can disrupt evaporation, which leads to decreased performance and in some cases can lead to heat illness. New fabrics and designs have been introduced with the purpose of improving thermoregulatory properties. One of those innovations is a channeled synthetic fabric. The first of three studies evaluated the effects of a channeled synthetic and synthetic t-shirts under a ballistic vest on physiological and comfort responses during exercise in a hot environment. Eight participants, in counterbalanced order, completed two simulated "industrial" protocols for three hours. The overall (0 - 180 min) change in rectal temperature was significantly (p = 0.04) lower with channeled synthetic shirt compared to a synthetic shirt. Additionally, overall change in thermal comfort (p = 0.05), sweating sensation (p = 0.06), and heart rate (p = 0.07) were, or tended to be more favorable throughout exercise with channeled synthetic compared to synthetic shirt. We also examined the effects of channeled synthetic shirt and synthetic cycling shirt effects on thermoregulation, thermal comfort, and heart rate. Eight participants attempted a 30-km cycling time trial. Results indicated significantly (p = 0.04, n = 8) smaller increase in rectal temperature from baseline to 15th km (first dropout) with the channeled synthetic shirt compared to cycling shirt. Also, the change in thermal comfort was significantly (n = 5, p = 0.03) lower with channeled shirt compared to cycling shirt from baseline to 30th km. A third study examined channeled compression shorts, compression shorts, and cycling shorts effects on thermoregulation, heart rate, and thermal comfort response during 30-km cycling trial in hot a environment. Eight participants completed a 25-km cycling trial. Results revealed no significant main effect for rectal or skin temperatures, heart rate, and thermal comfort between the three different types of shorts (n = 8, p > 0.05). In conclusion, wearing a channeled synthetic shirt provided better thermoregulatory or thermal comfort responses compared to synthetic shirt in two studies. Channeled compression shorts did not improve thermoregulatory or thermal comfort responses compared to cycling and compression shorts.Item The impact of exposure to elite wheelchair athletes: perceptions of pre-service physical education teachers(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Richey, Lenoise, Jr.; Hardin, L. Brent; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThis study examined the perceptions of six pre-service physical education teachers on students and athletes who use a wheelchair. The study used qualitative techniques to interview each individual participant twice, once prior to the experiences and once following all experiences. Critical incidents were recorded following each experience, and two focus groups sections were done with all participants. The purpose of these sessions was to get an insightful understanding of how the participants viewed students who use wheelchairs. The findings of this research study have been summarized into six themes: 1) self-confidence is key to success; 2) modification provides opportunity; 3) experience is essential to competence; 4) different but equal; 5) ability levels of athletes; and 6) wheelchair athletic intensity. Although this study included only six pre-service physical education teachers, the themes found in this study could be used for future research or by curriculum designers to better inform the instruction of pre-service teachers on their view of students who use a wheelchair.Item Posture and sports performance(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Illian, Travis; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaThe purpose of these investigations was to examine the influence of a device intended to "modify posture" and its influence on sports performance. We investigated the impact of a hand-grip device (e3 Fitness Grips, BioGrip, Sacramento, CA) designed to put the human skeleton in a "more favorable anatomical position," on 3.2-kilometer (2-mile) running performance by measuring time and counting steps. We observed no change in running time but a significant change (F(1,8)=5.7, p=0.04) in step count, but only for participants who could run 3.2-kilometers (2-miles) under 14 minutes. If a person is able to run 3.2-kilometers under 14 minutes, then using the fitness grips may decrease the number of steps it takes to run a given distance, but may not improve time. In the second study, we evaluated the impact of an isometric exercise treatment with grips designed to put the human skeleton in a "more advantageous position" (e3 Swing Grips, BioGrip, Sacramento, CA) on bat speed. We observed that the grip exercise treatment significantly (F(2,44)=7.6, p<.001) increased mean bat speed immediately after doing the treatment by 33.4 ± 2.5 m/s (0.45 m/s) and after five minutes of rest by 34.0 ± 2.8 ms (0.9 m/s) for collegiate baseball players when compared with a triceps pushdown treatment (placebo post treatment 32.3 ± 2.3 and 5 min rest 33.2 ± 2.7 m/s) and no treatment (control post treatment 32.5 ± 3.1 and 5 min rest 33.2 ± 2.7 m/s), but not for softball players (grip treatment post 28.7 ± 1.5 and 5 min rest 28.9 ± 2.1 m/s). The ease in use of the postural grip treatment may be a practical way to incorporate intense isometric muscle contractions of the core musculature into practice or game conditions as a means of enhancing bat speed velocity in baseball players similar to those tested. A review of literature was conducted examining posture and sports performance. The literature is clear that there are sport-specific postural deviations. It is unclear if these postural deviations lead to better performance or if a specific training plan should be developed to help build and maintain a more balanced body posture. Future research should examine the effect of posture control on static and dynamic movement.Item Participation styles in youth soccer(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Neels, Darren Michael; Curtner-Smith, Matthew; University of Alabama TuscaloosaA small number of researchers interested in the ecology of physical activity settings has made a significant contribution to the literature by examining how the participation styles of children, youth, and adults can differ during the same program. The purpose of this study was to describe the participation styles of 52 children enrolled in one under-12 youth sport soccer program. Secondary participants were the program's six instructors. Data were collected using four qualitative techniques: non-participant observation, formal interviews, informal interviews, and stimulated recall interviews. They were analyzed by employing the techniques of analytic induction and constant comparison. Seven participation styles were identified. Unlike those described in previous studies, these participation styles were not based on a hierarchy in which those at the top learned to bully and humiliate those at the bottom. Potential reasons for this finding are examined.Item Effect of whole-body vibration on acute recovery after fatiguing exercise(University of Alabama Libraries, 2011) Nepocatych, Svetlana; Bishop, Phillip A.; University of Alabama TuscaloosaHigh-intensity intermittent or resistance activity for a short period of time causes an increased break down of energy stores and accumulation of metabolic by-products. Increased metabolic disturbances may lead to decreased muscle contractile function which eventually will lead to muscle fatigue. Sufficient recovery time is needed for optimal competitive performance and optimizing the ability to tolerate high-intensity, various lengths and duration training loads. There are a number of recovery modalities available that have been used between training sessions, pre- and post- training, and between competitions. In order to evaluate vibration as a recovery aid that contributes to improved performance, three studies were conducted. The first study evaluated the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and WBV plus cooling on lower-body peak and mean anaerobic performance, leg volume, perceived recovery, and muscle soreness. The second study evaluated the effects of WBV and upper-body vibration (UBV) on upper-body performance, perceived recovery and muscle soreness, and the third study evaluated the effect of WBV on sprint performance, leg volume and perceived recovery. Healthy and physically active male and female volunteers participated in the studies. In a repeated measures, counterbalanced design, participants completed fatiguing exercise, each recovery treatment and performance test. As indicated by the group mean data, results of the first study suggested possible psychological but not performance enhancing benefits after the use of WBV and WBVC as a recovery method. The findings of the second study suggest no psychological or physiological benefits using WBV and UBV as a recovery modality. The results of the third study suggest no benefits for WBV in enhancing recovery or sprint performance. However, while actual recovery was not enhanced, perceived recovery was better after WBV compared to no vibration. Even though actual recovery or performance was not enhanced by the addition of WBV to the recovery, psychological perception of better recovery may be of some benefit for training or competition. It appears that acute exposure to WBV does not enhance performance under the conditions of this study.