Physical Activity Review

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physical activity, sport and health

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Self-reported laterality, psychological characteristics, and technical certification in karate students descriptive longitudinal pilot study

    Ivan Uher, Ján Pivovarník, Mária Majherová, Jarmila Bernasovská, Iveta Cimboláková, Peter M. Kalanin
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):1-9.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.16
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    Abstract

    Self-reported laterality, psychological characteristics, and technical certification in karate students descriptive longitudinal pilot study

    Ivan Uher Ján Pivovarník Mária Majherová Jarmila Bernasovská Iveta Cimboláková Peter M. Kalanin

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):1-9.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.16

    Introduction:

    Self-reported laterality-related psychological characteristics are commonly applied in sport and martial arts training, yet longitudinal evidence linking them to formal indicators of technical progression is limited. This descriptive longitudinal pilot study examined changes in laterality-related and selected emotional–cognitive attributes and explored their association with achieved technical certification in karate students enrolled in a specialized security training program.

    Material and Methods:

    Thirty-one students (22 males, 9 females; 20–26 years) completed the same standardized self-report questionnaire at program entry (September 2021) and completion (June 2024). Outcomes included laterality score (0–40), Positive Self-Awareness and Thinking (PSAT), Emotional Resilience (ER), Emotional Potential for Sport (EPS), and achieved kyu rank. Paired t-tests and chi-square tests were applied exploratorily, with effect sizes reported and questionnaire reliability interpreted descriptively.

    Results:

    Group-level laterality did not change significantly over time (t(30)=0.92, p=0.364, d=0.17). PSAT, ER, and EPS remained stable (all p>0.05; trivial effect sizes). A statistically significant association was observed between gender and achieved kyu rank (χ²(2)=6.99, p=0.030, Cramer’s V=0.34), indicating a medium descriptive effect within this cohort.

    Conclusions:

    Across three years of structured karate training, self-reported laterality-related tendencies and emotional-cognitive characteristics remained largely stable, while technical certification outcomes differed by gender. Given the small sample size and exploratory design, findings should be interpreted descriptively. The results suggest that formal technical progression may not be systematically mirrored by changes in static self-reported psychological profiles.
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    Self-reported laterality, psychological characteristics, and technical certification in karate students descriptive longitudinal pilot study

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):1-9.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.16

    Ivan Uher Ján Pivovarník Mária Majherová Jarmila Bernasovská Iveta Cimboláková Peter M. Kalanin

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Explosive Strength Parameters of the Lower Limbs in Young Female Track and Field Athletes

    Daniela Falat Leütterová, Jaroslav Sučka
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):10-23.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.17
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    Explosive Strength Parameters of the Lower Limbs in Young Female Track and Field Athletes

    Daniela Falat Leütterová Jaroslav Sučka

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):10-23.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.17

    Introduction.

    Monitoring and development of lower-limb explosive strength play a crucial role in youth athletic preparation and talent development. Vertical jump performance is widely used as a reliable indicator of explosive strength; however, data concerning differences between training modalities and training frequency in pre-adolescent female athletes remain limited. The aim of the study was to compare the level of lower-limb explosive strength among two groups of young female track-and-field athletes differing in strength training frequency and a non-athletic control group, using selected vertical jump tests.

    Methods.

    The research sample consisted of 92 girls (mean age: 12.1 ± 0.7 years), all classified as pre–peak height velocity individuals. Participants were divided into three groups: athletes performing strength training once per week (G1, n = 20), athletes performing strength training twice per week supplemented with basic weightlifting exercises (G2, n = 38), and a non-athletic control group (G3, n = 34). Lower-limb explosive strength was assessed using the countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement jump with arm swing (CMJ FA), and squat jump (SJ) measured by a Chronojump system. One-way ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc test, and ANCOVA with body height as a covariate were applied.

    Results.

    Statistically significant differences between groups were observed in all vertical jump tests (p < 0.05). The athletic groups achieved higher jump heights than the control group, with G2 demonstrating the highest performance across all tests. The largest practical differences were identified in the CMJ FA test. Group membership explained a substantially greater proportion of performance variance than body height, which showed only a limited predictive contribution. ANCOVA confirmed significant between-group effects after controlling for body height.

    Conclusions.

    The findings indicate that systematic power-oriented strength training positively influences lower-limb explosive strength in young female athletes. Increasing strength training frequency to two sessions per week, particularly when supplemented with basic weightlifting exercises, appears to provide additional performance benefits. These results support the inclusion of structured and progressive strength training programmes in youth athletics and physical education.
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    Explosive Strength Parameters of the Lower Limbs in Young Female Track and Field Athletes

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):10-23.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.17

    Daniela Falat Leütterová Jaroslav Sučka

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Psychological and Physical Determinants of Rescue Readiness: State and Trait Anxiety in Lifeguard Candidates

    Piotr Kruzołek, Jacek Wasik, Mariusz Kuberski, Dorota Ortenburger, Jan Konarski
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):24-34.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.18
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    Psychological and Physical Determinants of Rescue Readiness: State and Trait Anxiety in Lifeguard Candidates

    Piotr Kruzołek Jacek Wasik Mariusz Kuberski Dorota Ortenburger Jan Konarski

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):24-34.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.18

    Background:

    Effective lifeguard performance depends not only on physical preparedness but also on psychological functioning under stress. However, limited research has simultaneously examined anxiety levels and somatic-motor characteristics in lifeguard candidates at the initial stage of training.

    Methods:

    Fifty lifeguard candidates (19 women, 31 men) participated in the study. State and trait anxiety were assessed using the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Somatic parameters included body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (FAT%). Motor performance was evaluated using the countermovement jump (CMJ), with biomechanical variables recorded via an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Between-group comparisons and Spearman’s rank correlations were applied.

    Results:

    Mean anxiety levels were within normative ranges for non-clinical adult populations. No significant differences were observed between state and trait anxiety. Women demonstrated a tendency toward higher anxiety levels than men, though differences were not statistically significant. No significant associations were found between anxiety levels and somatic or motor parameters. A very strong positive correlation was identified between BMI and FAT% in both sexes (p < 0.001), with no sex differences in correlation strength.

    Conclusions:

    Anxiety levels in lifeguard candidates at the beginning of training appear independent of basic physical fitness and body composition parameters. Standard physical selection criteria may not identify individuals with elevated anxiety. Incorporating psychological screening and mental skills training into lifeguard education may enhance adaptation to training demands and improve operational effectiveness under stress.
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    Psychological and Physical Determinants of Rescue Readiness: State and Trait Anxiety in Lifeguard Candidates

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):24-34.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.18

    Piotr Kruzołek Jacek Wasik Mariusz Kuberski Dorota Ortenburger Jan Konarski

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Determinants of kicking force in taekwon-do: a pilot study on the role of aggression, sex, and age

    Jacek Wąsik, Cezary Kuśnierz, Kamil Radecki, Dariusz Mosler
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):35-45.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.19
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    Abstract

    Determinants of kicking force in taekwon-do: a pilot study on the role of aggression, sex, and age

    Jacek Wąsik Cezary Kuśnierz Kamil Radecki Dariusz Mosler

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):35-45.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.19

    Introduction:

    The ability to generate high kicking force is a key determinant of performance in taekwondo. While the biomechanical aspects of kicking techniques have been extensively investigated, the potential role of psychological traits, such as aggression, in force generation remains insufficiently explored. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between aggression levels and the ability to generate kicking force in taekwondo athletes, taking into account the role of sex and age.

    Materials and Methods:

    Thirty taekwondo athletes (6 women and 24 men; mean age 27.07 ± 6.42 years) participated in the study. Under laboratory conditions, maximal impact force of three kicking techniques (front, roundhouse, and side kick) performed with both legs was recorded using a force plate. Aggression was assessed using the Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, independent-samples t-tests, and multiple linear regression were applied (p < 0.05).

    Results:

    In the regression model explaining total kicking force (R² = 0.53; p < 0.001), sex and age were significant predictors, whereas aggression was not statistically significant. Men generated significantly greater kicking force than women (large effect size), whereas no significant differences in aggression levels were observed between sexes.

    Conclusions:

    The findings indicate that the relationship between aggression and kicking force in taekwondo athletes is limited and technique-specific. Overall force-generation capacity appears to be determined primarily by somatic and biomechanical factors rather than by dispositional aggression. Future studies should include larger samples and additional biomechanical and psychophysiological variables.
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    Determinants of kicking force in taekwon-do: a pilot study on the role of aggression, sex, and age

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):35-45.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.19

    Jacek Wąsik Cezary Kuśnierz Kamil Radecki Dariusz Mosler

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    The impact of a preparatory camp training program on balance in young female volleyball players

    Wiktoria Senator, Alicja Dziuba-Slonina
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):46-56.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.20
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    Abstract

    The impact of a preparatory camp training program on balance in young female volleyball players

    Wiktoria Senator Alicja Dziuba-Slonina

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):46-56.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.20

    Introduction:

    Postural balance plays a crucial role in sports performance, particularly in young athletes during periods of intensive training. However, limited evidence exists regarding the short- and mid-term effects of intensive training camps on balance control in adolescent volleyball players. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a two-week intensive volleyball training camp on postural balance parameters in young female volleyball players, assessed immediately and one month after the camp.

    Methods:

    Twenty-nine female volleyball players aged 10–15 years participated in the study. Postural balance was assessed using a Zebris posturographic platform under eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions at three time points: before the training camp (Pre), immediately after the camp (Post1), and one month after the camp (Post2). Center of pressure (COP) parameters, including sway path length and ellipse area, were analyzed.

    Results:

    Significant improvements in postural balance parameters were observed immediately after the training camp under EO conditions (p < 0.05). However, under EC conditions, several parameters deteriorated after the camp. One month after the camp, most parameters returned toward baseline values, indicating a partial loss of training-induced adaptations.

    Conclusion:

    An intensive volleyball training camp leads to short-term improvements in postural balance under visual control but may temporarily impair balance performance when visual input is removed. The observed decline in balance parameters one month after the camp highlights the need for continuous proprioceptive and balance-oriented training to maintain postural control adaptations in young volleyball players.
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    The impact of a preparatory camp training program on balance in young female volleyball players

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):46-56.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.20

    Wiktoria Senator Alicja Dziuba-Slonina

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Accuracy of strokes and serves in para table tennis a comparative analysis across integrated sport classes

    Szymon Galas, Justyna Satławska, Michalina Błażkiewicz, Ziemowit Bańkosz, Andrzej Ochal, Jan M. Konarski, Beata Pluta
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):57-67.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.21
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    Accuracy of strokes and serves in para table tennis a comparative analysis across integrated sport classes

    Szymon Galas Justyna Satławska Michalina Błażkiewicz Ziemowit Bańkosz Andrzej Ochal Jan M. Konarski Beata Pluta

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):57-67.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.21

    Background:

    Table tennis is a highly accessible sport practiced by individuals with various physical and intellectual impairments; however, limited research has examined how functional classification influences sport-specific technical performance. The aim of this study was to compare the precision of serves and strokes among male para table tennis players representing different integrated sport classes (1–5, 6–10, and 11).

    Methods:

    A total of 92 male athletes (age: 26.63 ± 14.31 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. Performance was evaluated using standardized tests assessing serve accuracy (Target Service Test, Extreme Side Service Test, Short Service Test), stroke precision (Alternate Push Test, Manual Quickness and Ability (Q&A) tests), and speed-related skills (Skill Speed and Displacement Speed tests). Due to non-normal data distribution, nonparametric statistical methods were applied. Between-group differences were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test with post hoc Dunn– Bonferroni comparisons, while ordered trends across classes were examined using the Jonckheere–Terpstra test.

    Results:

    Significant differences were found between integrated sport classes for selected variables, with players in lower classes demonstrating higher serve precision, while those in higher classes showed superior performance in coordination and speed-related tests. The Jonckheere–Terpstra test revealed significant monotonic trends across all analyzed variables (p < 0.001), indicating systematic performance changes across classes.

    Conclusions:

    These findings emphasize the influence of functional classification on technical performance in para table tennis and support the need for classification-sensitive assessment tools.
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    Accuracy of strokes and serves in para table tennis a comparative analysis across integrated sport classes

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):57-67.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.21

    Szymon Galas Justyna Satławska Michalina Błażkiewicz Ziemowit Bańkosz Andrzej Ochal Jan M. Konarski Beata Pluta

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Effects of a Nine-Week High-Intensity Interval Training Program on Anaerobic Performance and Physical Readiness in Military University Cadets: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Jan Florian, Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez, Jan Pařík, Michal Polách
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):68-79.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.22
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    Effects of a Nine-Week High-Intensity Interval Training Program on Anaerobic Performance and Physical Readiness in Military University Cadets: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Jan Florian Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez Jan Pařík Michal Polách

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):68-79.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.22

    High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is recognized as a time-efficient method for enhancing physical fitness. However, its effects in military populations, who require multifaceted development of physical capabilities and psychological resilience, warrant further investigation, particularly in comparison with conventional training approaches. This study aimed to compare the effects of a structured nine-week HIIT program with conventional physical training on anaerobic performance, body composition, and subjective perceptions of stress management and physical readiness in military university students. A two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted with 61 first-year cadets (47 men, 14 women) from the University of Defence, Czech Republic. Participants were randomly allocated to either an intervention group (HIIT; n = 33) or a control group (CON; n = 28). The HIIT group performed two 90-minute weekly sessions featuring a periodized blend of interval running and high-intensity functional training, while the control group followed a standard, non-structured physical education curriculum. Within-group analyses showed a significant improvement in mean anaerobic power in the HIIT group (p < 0.001; effect size = 0.85), whereas the control group showed a non-significant change (p = 0.132; effect size = 0.33). Between-group differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.151), although the effect size indicated a small-to-moderate trend favouring HIIT. No significant differences were observed for body composition. At seven-month follow-up, mean anaerobic power in the HIIT group remained above baseline values without significant between-group differences. Participants in the HIIT group reported significantly higher perceived physical readiness (p < 0.01) and overall program evaluation (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that structured HIIT may represent a promising and time-efficient training approach in military university settings, although further research with larger samples is needed.
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    Effects of a Nine-Week High-Intensity Interval Training Program on Anaerobic Performance and Physical Readiness in Military University Cadets: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):68-79.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.22

    Jan Florian Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez Jan Pařík Michal Polách

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Physical Activity and Repetitive Precision Tasks as Determinants of Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Adaptations of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Muscle in Professional Shooters

    Sebastian Szajkowski, Jarosław Pasek, Grzegorz Cieślar, Michał Dwornik, Dominik Szymański, Sławomir Marszałek
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):80-90.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.23
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    Physical Activity and Repetitive Precision Tasks as Determinants of Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Adaptations of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Muscle in Professional Shooters

    Sebastian Szajkowski Jarosław Pasek Grzegorz Cieślar Michał Dwornik Dominik Szymański Sławomir Marszałek

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):80-90.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.23

    Background:

    This study aimed to assess the effects of long-term pistol use on the biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle, using myotonometry (MyotonPRO) to compare State Protection Service officers with individuals who do not use pistols.

    Methods:

    This cross-sectional study included 50 healthy adult males aged 30–40 years, of whom 25 were professional shooters and 25 were non-pistol users. The biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the FDS muscle of the dominant hand were assessed using the MyotonPRO device at six contraction levels ranging from 0 to 100% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), based on grip strength measured with a digital dynamometer.

    Results:

    Professional shooters showed lower muscle tone, stiffness, and decrement values, suggesting greater elasticity; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Viscoelastic parameters, including relaxation time and creep, were generally higher. In unadjusted analyses, creep differed at 80% and 100% MVC (p = 0.039 and p = 0.002) with moderate effect sizes, but these differences were not significant after Benjamini–Hochberg correction. The lowest adjusted value was observed for creep at 100% MVC (q = 0.060), indicating a trend toward significance.

    Conclusions:

    Long term pistol use was not associated with increased muscle tone or stiffness of the FDS muscle. Although viscoelastic differences were observed, none remained significant after correction. Consistent patterns, particularly for creep at higher loads, may suggest subtle differences in muscle behavior; however, these findings should be interpreted with caution.
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    Physical Activity and Repetitive Precision Tasks as Determinants of Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Adaptations of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Muscle in Professional Shooters

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):80-90.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.23

    Sebastian Szajkowski Jarosław Pasek Grzegorz Cieślar Michał Dwornik Dominik Szymański Sławomir Marszałek

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Relationships between socioeconomic factors and engagement in physical activity depending on lifestyle satisfaction among soldiers a preliminary investigation

    Jolanta Pilarczyk, Dorota Sadowska, Ewa Putek-Szeląg, Justyna Krzepota
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):91-99.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.24
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    Relationships between socioeconomic factors and engagement in physical activity depending on lifestyle satisfaction among soldiers a preliminary investigation

    Jolanta Pilarczyk Dorota Sadowska Ewa Putek-Szeląg Justyna Krzepota

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):91-99.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.24

    Background:

    This study aimed to identify associations between selected socioeconomic factors, self-reported physical fitness and engagement in physical activity, and self-rated lifestyle satisfaction among professional soldiers.

    Methods:

    The study included 200 soldiers (38 women and 142 men). The variables analyzed were age, sex, marital status, education, position held, and years of service. Furthermore, the soldiers provided information on their self-reported physical fitness. The study examined whether self-reported life satisfaction was associated with the motives and barriers to engaging in this activity. An author-designed questionnaire method was used; the research tool was an original survey questionnaire.

    Results:

    Analysis of the results showed that age (chi2 = 12.50; p = 0.005) and marital status (chi2 = 9.16; p = 0.028) were factors that significantly associated with soldiers' self-reported lifestyle satisfaction. Being in a relationship and being married doubled the odds of reporting very good or good life satisfaction (OR = 2.00; p = 0.017). This likelihood was significantly lower in soldiers rating their physical fitness as average (OR = 0.03; p ≤ 0.001) and poor (OR = 0.01; p ≤ 0.001). With regard to the motives and barriers to engaging in physical activity in the soldiers studied, no significant differences were found in self-reported lifestyle satisfaction.

    Conclusions:

    The challenges faced by soldiers require responsibility, dedication, and commitment, both physically and mentally. Therefore, their level of lifestyle satisfaction is important. Although this preliminary research was conducted in a small study group, it indicated factors that may significantly affect soldiers' lifestyle satisfaction. Further research is, therefore, needed in this area with a larger number of respondents, including both men and women.
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    Relationships between socioeconomic factors and engagement in physical activity depending on lifestyle satisfaction among soldiers a preliminary investigation

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):91-99.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.24

    Jolanta Pilarczyk Dorota Sadowska Ewa Putek-Szeląg Justyna Krzepota

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  • ORIGINAL ARTICLE

    Exploratory modeling of urinary incontinence risk among female athletes the role of smoking and training duration

    Iva Lončarić Kelečić, Snježana Schuster, Jasna Mesarić
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):100-112.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.25
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    Exploratory modeling of urinary incontinence risk among female athletes the role of smoking and training duration

    Iva Lončarić Kelečić Snježana Schuster Jasna Mesarić

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):100-112.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.25

    Background:

    Urinary incontinence (UI) is commonly reported among female athletes, yet its determinants remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to examine whether daily training duration contributes to the likelihood of UI beyond previously observed associations with smoking.

    Methods:

    A secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from 70 Croatian female athletes was conducted. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess associations between UI and age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and daily training duration as a simplified proxy for external training load, including an exploratory interaction between smoking and training duration.

    Results:

    Smoking was the only variable significantly associated with UI in the main-effects model (odds ratio [OR] = 4.18, 95% CI 1.05–16.69). Age, BMI, and training duration were not independently associated with UI. In the exploratory interaction model, smoking was associated with higher odds of UI, although with limited precision (OR = 8.26, 95% CI 1.00–68.18), while the interaction between smoking and training duration showed a positive but statistically nonsignificant association (OR = 14.72, 95% CI 0.89–243.95), indicating substantial uncertainty in the estimate.

    Conclusions:

    These findings suggest that behavioral factors may play a more relevant role in UI among female athletes than training duration alone. Although the exploratory interaction pattern should be interpreted with caution, it may suggest a possible difference in the relationship between training duration and UI according to behavioral factors such as smoking. Further studies with larger samples and multidimensional measures of training exposure are needed.
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    Exploratory modeling of urinary incontinence risk among female athletes the role of smoking and training duration

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):100-112.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.25

    Iva Lončarić Kelečić Snježana Schuster Jasna Mesarić

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    Effects of a Pilates-Based Exercise Program versus transcranial direct current stimulation on Gait, Balance, and Quality of Life in stroke patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Aisha M. Saleh, Hussein A. Shaker, Ebtesam M. Fahmy, Samar H. Abdul Latif, Yehia M. Sadek, Mohamed H. Marzouk
    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):113-123.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.26
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    Effects of a Pilates-Based Exercise Program versus transcranial direct current stimulation on Gait, Balance, and Quality of Life in stroke patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Aisha M. Saleh Hussein A. Shaker Ebtesam M. Fahmy Samar H. Abdul Latif Yehia M. Sadek Mohamed H. Marzouk

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):113-123.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.26

    Emerging evidence highlights the role of targeted neuromodulation and structured exercise interventions in enhancing functional recovery following stroke. This study compared the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the supplementary motor area and Pilates-based core stability training, within a physical activity– based rehabilitation framework, on balance and gait performance in individuals with subacute stroke. Sixty-six patients were randomly assigned to three groups: group (A) received anodal tDCS over the supplementary motor area combined with conventional physiotherapy; group (B) received Pilates-based core stability training with conventional physiotherapy; and control group (C) received conventional physiotherapy with sham tDCS. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-treatment and included spatiotemporal gait parameters (step length, stance time, swing time, double support time, and velocity), balance indices (Overall Stability Index and Limit of Stability), and stroke-specific quality of life. All groups showed significant post-treatment improvements in gait, balance, and quality of life (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups (A) and (B) across outcomes (p > 0.05). However, both groups demonstrated significantly greater improvements than the control group in key gait parameters, balance measures, and quality of life (p ≤ 0.02). Although both interventions were associated with improvements in functional outcomes, the present study did not detect statistically significant differences between groups.
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    Effects of a Pilates-Based Exercise Program versus transcranial direct current stimulation on Gait, Balance, and Quality of Life in stroke patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Phys Act Rev. 2026;14(2):113-123.DOI: 10.16926/par.2026.14.26

    Aisha M. Saleh Hussein A. Shaker Ebtesam M. Fahmy Samar H. Abdul Latif Yehia M. Sadek Mohamed H. Marzouk

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