Vol. 1 No. 1 (2018): UNIVERSITY ARENA JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORT AND HEALTH
ANNUAL JOURNAL OF ARTICLES IN THE INTERDISCIPLINARY FIELDS: SCIENCE OF SPORT AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH
Full Issue
Physical education
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THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND CREATIVITY THROUGH DANCE GROUP CHOREOGRAPHY AT THE PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES
Abstract
Background. The development of the informational means led to the diminishing of communication skills between people. These useful means of information are needed in the conditions of the current life but they also contribute substantially to the self-isolation by working from home, by distance communication, and this fact can be noticed in the antisocial behaviour of teenagers.
Objectives. By approaching this matter at the dance classes we have the possibility to develop the human relationships and to determine the possibility of collaboration and the development of creativity through the specifics of the discipline and the suggested subjects. In achieving the objectives we pursued in this research 3 categories of: aptitude factors, intellectual factors and personality factors. All these categories of factors were capitalized in the context in which the subjects had to make cha-cha-cha choreography on the basis of the acquired, physical and methodological knowledge.
Methods. Teaching – learning – consolidation – improvement were the working methods at first.
The observation method: we used the formative-participatory methods.
The modeling method: we used creative exercises and exercises of body expressiveness in relation with the nature of the movements and the music.
Results. The evaluation took place under competition conditions in order to stimulate the collaboration between the members of the groups. The results showed that the 2nd, the 3rd and the 5th group, where the subjects managed to collaborate, to socialize and to form a common idea and a common aim, had better structured choreographies and had more creativity, as they got 7 points out of 10. For the 1st, 4th and 6th group, where the subjects didn’t collaborate much, the creativity couldn’t develop.
Conclusion. By working in groups, all subjects have made progress regarding their social abilities. In groups where the emulation was faster, there were better executions, the members of the group synchronized and the choreographies were more creative. In the dance classes for groups of students it’s about a creative potential which have developed through the learning process but also through other activities which took place independently. -
DESIGN OF LEARNING UNITS FOR SCHOOL PHYSICAL EDUCATION WITH 6TH GRADE STUDENTS
Abstract
Background. From the unitary documents of the teacher of physical education, the didactic design acquires a personalized and individual character, regarding the distribution of the learning units in lessons and throughout the school year, the joining of the learning units into lessons, the placement of the test events for the sunmative evaluation and of the tests stipulated by the National School System of Evaluation, as well as those established by the teacher in the structure of the school year.
Objectives. This research aimed at the following objectives: to present the theoretical documentation of the didactic design in school physical education, particularly the learning units; to carry out the half-yearly test events evaluation; to make the didactic design of the learning units necessary for the teaching-learning-evaluation of the education contents of the motor qualities and skills specific to basketball game; to apply the evaluation system of the test events; to analyze the effectiveness of the didactic design, the achievement of the learning units in basketball and the motor skills of the 6th grade students; to draw conclusions and develop practical recommendations.
Methods. This scientific approach entailed the organization of a study in the Secondary School no. 28 of Bucharest, with a group of 24 students of the 6th C grade; the study was conducted over the 2017-2018 school year, the first semester. The following research methods were used in this paper: study of the specialized literature, method of pedagogical observation, method of the experimental study, method of tests, statistical-mathematical method and graphical representation of results. This study also includes the final results of the specialty inspection for obtaining the teaching certification level II by the first author, highlighting the efficiency of the didactic design of the learning units used during the instructive-educational process of teaching-learning-evaluation of the 6th C grade students. There were also applied 4 test events selected from the National School System of Evaluation for 6th grade students, regarding the speed evaluated by 50 m speed running, explosive power evaluated by standing long jump, endurance evaluated by endurance running (girls – 600 m and boys – 800 m) and sports game – basketball.
Results. The study results prove the efficiency of using the actuation techniques for the development of body segments muscles tonicity, the achievement of motor actions with different efforts and structures and progressive degree of complexity specific to basketball and the integration of the learnt technical procedures into simple tactical actions of the basketball game. The application of the test events evaluation system in 6th grade students highlighted the level of development of the running speed, a low level of the explosive power of the lower limbs, endurance running 600 m girls and 800 m boys and the level of learning the motor and technical-tactical actions specific to the basketball game.
Conclusion. Performing the didactic design of the learning units in school physical education for the 6th grade students contributed to the achievement of the reference objectives of the education contents of “power” motor skill in basketball and to proposing the recommendations needed to improve the teaching-learning-evaluation process at this level. -
BALANCE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES IMPLEMENTED IN THE PHYSICAL EDUCATION LESSON
Abstract
Background. Adventure activities have been part of the physical education lessons of other countries for a long time now, yet they are still missing from the Romanian curriculum, despite the fact that it has been proved they help in the character development of the participants.
Objectives. This paper analyses the effects of a modul based on initiatives and low rope activities (activities specific to adventure education) on the development of the dynamic and static balance on a group of 10-12 years old students.
Methods. The adventure education module was implemented on students learning at a private school in Cluj –Napoca between November 2016-March 2017 during an extra hour of physical education that they had every week. The control group had an extra hour of physical education every week as well but they have done tipical physical education activities instead. The testing of the students was done before and at the end of the program for both groups, usingJohnson’sModified BASS Test for Dynamic Balance.
Results.The results have shown a semnificative increase in the dynamic balance of the experiential group while no semnificative results were recorded for the control group. Furthermore, theaverage score of the static balance of the experiential group has shown a significantly greater increase compared to the control group.
Conclusion. We can conclude that this type of adventure activities (initiatives and low rope activities) help with the development of both dynamic and static balance when used with students age 10-12 years old, and as such they have their place in the arsenal of the physical education teacher at least for the development of those abilities. -
THE DEVELOPMENT OF RUNNING SPEED AND AGILITY OF COLLEGE SOCCER PLAYERS, THROUGH SPECIFIC PHYSICAL TRAINING
Abstract
Within the theory and methodology of the soccer game there is a permanent concern for identifying those efficient ways, means and methodologies, which ensure the accomplishment of the instructive-educational objectives and tasks specific to each echelon.
Involvement of children, young people and adults in the educational process specific to soccer discipline, essentially contributes to solving the priority tasks of physical education at national level. Therefore, soccer is considered a foreground program, provided at the level of school curricula of all degrees.
Soccer players must have exceptional speed and quickness levels that must be consistently trained. Agility training is used to improve acceleration, foot speed, quickness, switching gears, cutting, starting/stopping, change of direction, and reaction, but it also aids in preventing injuries by improving body control through proper movement mechanics.
Through its content and approach, this research aims to demonstrate the influence of a specific physical training program on speed and agility of college soccer players. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of proper evaluation of these aspects, by using modern and effective tools, which contributes to a better understanding and completion of soccer training tasks. -
STUDY ON THE INFLUENCE OF THE PRACTICING EXERCISES IN AN ORGANIZED MANNER ON THE EFFORT CAPACITY AND PSYCHOMOTOR SKILLS OF THE STUDENTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF BUCHAREST
Abstract
Lately, both in the online space and in the literature, we are assaulted by materials that highlight the beneficial aspects of physical exercise on the body, in all its spheres - physical, psychic and social.
However, in the current socio-economic context, when the budget of time allocated to recreational sports activities is more and more a luxury, inaccessible even to the young students, we believe that sports disciplines practiced in an institutionalized manner are one of the few means they have at their disposal, which respond to their need for movement, group membership, social affiliation etc.
In our approach we assume that in theapplied programs, the content is attractive, accessible to students' level of motricity, the psychomotor peculiarities of young people are respected and the psychomotor skills assessed: strength, agility and speed are important components of the motor performance involved in the daily activities, not just in sports activities.
Therefore, in our investigation we proposed to verify the following hypothesis: The action systems specific to the chosen sport disciplines (table tennis and aerobics), applied in the lessons, lead to a better effort capacity, to higher indices of manifestation of the motor qualities force and speed and to the positive influence of psycho-behavioral states. -
PRE-ESTABLISHED FIGHTING EXERCISES IN FIVE STEPS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION LESSONS, SPECIFICALLY KARATE-DO, BUCHAREST UNIVERSITY
Abstract
Premises. During the physical education Karate-Do lessons and also for the grade examination for the yellow belt at the end of the first year of University, the students will include in their current practice the pre-established five steps fighting exercises (Japanese: Gohon Kumite). Progress in Karate-Do will be established the same as in others physical education disciplines, following the principle of accessibility, by applying the three classical rules of didactic practice: from easy to difficult, from simple to complex and from known to unknown. The first step of Karate-Do is to correctly learn the fighting techniques by exercising alone, without a partner (Jap.: Kihon). The second step is to apply them by fighting one or more adversaries (Jap.: Kumite).
By practicing the fighting exercises with a Karate-Do partner one can also attain the specific principals of physical education, by bettering physical development and motric capacities.
A very important factor during the physical exercises will be the mental side, the student developing in short time understanding for the other side, for the activity immersion, for controlling emotions and techniques, for focusing one’s mind better and for will strength and developing a fighting spirit.
Objectives. Internalizing the basic techniques for attacking and defense, controlling the breathing techniques, moving the body in the right sequence. Mentally, we will look for controlling emotions, fighting spirit, trusting yourself and determination.
Methods. The method used for this presentation concerning the specific Gohon Kumite exercises, practiced by the Japan Karate Association will also be used by the students of The University of Bucharest in the first year of studies.
The fore mentioned practice techniques are available for all the basic techniques to help attain the desired objectives.
Conclusions. During the lessons with the students of the University of Bucharest, an important step is fighting one or more partners, following the Gohon Kumite exercises. By exercising these techniques, students will develop mental capacity, motric qualities, rhythm, breathing and following the right steps to attain the right techniques.
Corectly practiced, the Gohon Kumite exercises will form a solid base for the next fighting techniques needed in superior levels of instruction and knowledge, by helping the formation of a strong fighting spirit and a strong, focused mind. -
PROBLEMATIC ASPECTS ON SELF DEFENSE
Abstract
Background. This paper starts a scientific investigation regarding the topic of Self Defense and Self Control encountered in the Psycho Physical aggression cases.
Objectives. Our objectives are to document the reason for which failure occurs during Self Defense and Self Control encountered in the psycho-physical aggression cases, even though certain subjects have experience in the combat disciplines coming from various Martial Arts.
Methods. Our methods of scientific study are social survey (on the people who have been involved in psycho-physical aggressions), reference method and the method of experts (specialists in various Martial Arts).
Results. The findings of our study is that there is a physical component and a psychic component in any aggression. The response to this double threat is also psychic and physical, since it is conditioned by complex psychological and motor parameters and pattern that cannot be fully mastered by the subject, because of the social conjuncture.
Conclusion. The difference between the offensive and the defensive is only motivational in nature related to the personal safety, as the specific utilitarian applicative combat techniques and procedures are identical in both cases.
Sport
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IMPROVEMENT OF LONG SHOTS ON GOAL IN AN ELITE FOOTBALL TEAM
Abstract
Background. As we know, football is worldwide considered, by specialists and not only by them, the most beloved sports discipline practiced by a huge number of young people all over the world. In this regard, the paper aims to demonstrate the usefulness and necessity of conducting studies and researches meant to improve the successful completion of the attacks for goal scoring in elite football.
Objectives. As an act of scientific research, this paper has certain objectives set as benchmarks: determining the real image of the technical-tactical profile of the team (in terms of long shots) based on the official games records regarding the attack actions mentioned above; centralization of the attacking phases and their achievement (per player, per completion, per player) and the way to improve and implicitly adapt the contents of the training session; correlation of the tactical tasks established by the coach with the actual possibilities of F. C. Voluntari team players and counting of these issues; making the players aware of how they fulfill the tactical responsibilities of an official game and giving immediate feedback by systematically presenting the tactical actions performed by the players in each game.
Methods. The following methods were used to conduct this research: study of the specialized literature documents; discussion method; method of observation and recording, statistical-mathematical and graphical representation method. The study was carried out in “F. C. Voluntari” Football Club. The observation, discussions, obtained data and records took place throughout the Championships of Division B, 2009-2010 edition. The measurements referred to: recording by observation and assistance in official and friendly games, both in and out, during the team training sessions as well; data comparison; determination of the share of “shots for goal “ of the players included in this team. The records began in the 2nd stage, on August 17, 2009 and were concluded on May 24, 2010, in the 28th stage of that competitive season. There were made 15 sheets monitoring the number of shots: by distance, by execution pattern (from stationary moments and from action), all over the game, divided into 2 halves and 5 record protocols during the training sessions.
Results. The analysis of the results proves the evolution of the shot on goal technique which is essentially determined by the discovery and highlighting of biomechanics data and which influenced decisively the performance level all over the years. The changes occurred in the shot technique were supported in parallel by special modifications of the training, especially with regard to the development of motor skills (strength, speed) aiming to increase the efficiency. The study demonstrated that the team of F. C. Voluntari Bucharest, implementing the programs for long shot improvement in their training sessions, achieved the expected results and reached the objectives set for the current season. A higher efficiency of the shots made from action was found out, namely: 65.1% of the shots were made from action and only 34.9% from stationary phases.
Conclusion. In order to achieve performance, the practice of the shots on goal is an essential factor of the football game. This can be done in special training sessions, using the records of the games. -
FUNCTIONAL TRAINING - MEANS OF OPTIMIZING BODY COMPOSITION
Abstract
Background. Research on the composition of the human body dates back to antiquity. In 440 BC, Hippocrates promote the idea that the human body is composed of four humors. A similar theory was also supported by Chinese researchers, suggesting the existence of five elements in the human body, and health is the consequence of a balance between them. These theories do not have a scientific foundation, but can be taken as a reference point in the history of research on body composition.
The assessment of body composition provides important data about the person health, especially the body mass index. If it is not within certain parameters it may indicate the presence of a disease.
Functional training is a physical conditioning activity with beneficial results in reducing body weight by decrease body fat and increasing strength and strength indices.
Objectives. This study aims to analyze the influence of functional training on body composition at a group of subjects after a five-month exercise program.
Methods. Experimental research was conducted on a group of 40 female subjects aged 19-25, between October 2017 -February 2018. The evaluation was performed using a body analysis tool that provided data on the body mass index and percentage of muscle mass and adipose tissue.
Results. The results demonstrated significant differences between initial and final testing, these data confirming the effectiveness of the exercise program used.
Conclusions. Functional training is effective only if the effort is adequate and the exercises are appropriate to the physical condition of the participants. -
THE CONTENT AND THE FEATURES SPECIFIC TO TOP PROFESSIONAL TENNIS
Abstract
This paper focuses on the necessity and the importance of knowing how to play professional tennis, as well as on the features specific to top tennis players’ evolution during practice hours. Thus, we could evaluate correctly the role, the importance and the impulse given to developing sport performances through a scientific, complex and effective activity in perfect accordance with the latest ideas and techniques in the sport field especially designed and implemented by the players’ coaches. In order to actually define and use the set of specialized means destined to increasing tennis performances, we must establish a set of selective criteria. This scientific research creates a demanding and objective filter regarding the vital importance of selecting and using different sets of means which are specialized from the structural and functional point of view according to the top requirements of professional tennis.
Kinetotherapy
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THE EFFICIENCY OF THE COXARTHROSIS RECOVERY PROCESS BY IMPLEMENTING THE MASSAGE AND PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSOCIATED WITH KINETOTHERAPY
Abstract
Highly important for stillness and mobility, the hip joint is built in such a way as to offer the body maximum mobility and stability. That is why physical therapy, mental exercises, physiotherapy and massage are essential to the recovery of the joint. The purpose of the study is to bring an improvement of the hip joint and to modify the cartilaginous tissue that causes the development of arthritis. Methods. The tests were performed on a group of 10 patients within the Sf. Luca hospital. The recovery methods were established according to the muscular and articular balance. The achieved results from physical therapy, physiotherapy and massage were compared in a graph that showed the initial state of the patients. Conclusions. At the completion of the program an improvement of the pain and greater flexibility of the hip joint were observed. The muscles in the pelvis got stronger and, at the same time, the strength and mobility were progressively modified. Also, the breathing and mental exercises had a very important role during the patient program.
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THE PREVALENCE OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY IN PUBLIC VERSUS PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN ROMANIA - A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Abstract
Childhood obesity is an alarming public health issue in many countries worldwide, with over 41 million overweight children under the age of five, according to WHO (1). In 2013, in Romania, 26.75% of 8-years old children have been diagnosed as overweight and 11.64% as obese, according to Romanian National Institute of Public Health (2).
Study Objective & Methods. Considering these data, the aim of the current investigation was to study whether the type of school (public or private) has an impact on childhood obesity. For this purpose, we analysed the Body Mass Index (BMI) of 209 children from four different Romanian schools (three public schools and one private school). The BMI is a body weight measure based on the mass and the height of an individual.
Results. Our results indicate that the children from public school have an increased tendency towards obesity compared to children who attend a private school. The main factors identified to contribute to these differences are diet, schedule overload and the personal preference towards organized physical activities. Specifically, children from the public school have a more disorganized eating program, a high-carbohydrate diet and a lower preference towards organized physical activities whereas the children attending the private school have a more balanced dietary program and a higher preference towards organized physical activities.
Conclusions. From this study we conclude that more refined national guidelines concerning diet and physical activities for children from both public and private schooled children would have beneficial long and short terms effect. -
VASCULAR DEMENTIA
Abstract
Dementia involves the loss of brain functions, usually progressive and irreversible. A change in pathology occurs at the brain by injury and death of neurons. Death of nerve cells at a certain rate is a normal process, but in the case of dementia, this process is much faster and has a pathological nature. As a result, the brain can not function properly. Patients with dementia have a particular problem with short-term memory, and rarely with long-term memory. It also presents difficulties in speaking, in time and space, in learning. Sick people need permanent care, unable to perform everyday activities (washing, dressing, feeding). In the population over 65 years there are 5% severe dementia and 15% medium severity dementia. Vascular dementia is a much more frequent clinical entity and is identified in 30-40% of patients with stroke. In Europe and SUA vascular dementia is considered to be a second cause of dementia after Alzheimer's. The prevalence of vascular dementia increases linearly with age and variation from one country to another, ranging from 1.2-4% of those aged over 65 years.
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ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND THE MODERN ALIMENTATION
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as you get older. Your risk is also higher if a family member has had the disease. No treatment can stop the disease. However, some drugs may help keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time. Alzheimer's disease is a devastating form of nonreversible dementia now affecting at least 5 out of 10 persons worldwide. Its course is marked by a gradual loss of memory, ability to communicate, and, eventually, physical capabilities. Appetite and food intake fluctuate with mood swings and increasing confusion. Feeding and alimentation skills regress gradually because of cognitive and physical deterioration; uncontrolled weight loss is almost inevitable in latter stages, despite quality of care. A number of etiological models exist, including some related to vitamin and mineral metabolism, although research has not yet yielded a certain cause or cure. Treatment is symptomatic relief through interdisciplinary health care intervention. Psychological, medical, nutritional, and nursing support are needed by the caregivers as well as by the patients themselves.
Varia
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THE BENEFITS OF SPORTS FOR STRONG HEALTH AND MIND
Abstract
Sports are activities that have a special role for people's physical and mental health, a fact that has been acknowledged since antiquity through the dictum «Menssana in corpore sano». Recent studies have shown that a physical activity for at least 30 min a day has a positive effect on the physical state (strengthens the bones, muscles, heart and the whole cardio-respiratory system) but also on the mental health, greatly reducing stress, depression and anxiety levels. Hereby, anyone can do physical activities without having to go to gym or to have a perfect physical condition. Everybody can start with some low-intensity physical activity (walking, table tennis) and once the body gets accustomed to the physical training, it will be possible to switch to higher intensity activities (jogging, dancing, outdoor sports such as tennis, football, volleyball). We are sure that once the participantsrealize the positive effects of sports, depending on the age, many persons will start an intensive sportive life activities including aerobics, gymnastics, swimming, bodybuilding, and for the younger ones even sports practiced at high performance levels.
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THE STRIVE FOR A CLEAN IMAGE OF TENNIS
Abstract
Why do people see tennis as a clean sport? The simple answer is that very few players ever test positive for banned substances. The ITF spends $4m a year on anti-doping. Over $50m is awarded in prize money at the US Open alone, with each champion this year taking home $3.7m. Given how much financial value is placed on the appearance of cleanliness, you can see why the sport might think this economic model works.
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BUSINESS ENGLISH AS WORLD’S NO.1 COMMUNICATION TOOL
Abstract
This article aims to theoretically discuss major issues in English language teaching – ELT for business and management. Business English is today’s Lingua Franca in the corporate world. It is the language for communication in IT communicative technologies, world spread trade and business activities, diplomacy and other spheres of life and work where people interact in order to achieve the appointed goal. Global world associated with corporal English language marks our presence and near future in the 21st century. Therefore the teaching of English takes a new turn toward EBP (English for Business Purposes) and English teachers should reorient in the direction of the business language. For the mentioned purpose linguistic skills that will help to master language proficiency will be developed. Global business world requires adequate training in foreign language competence. Teacher training is essential in managing language course development. Communication is taken as an essential language skill in both oral and written representations. This paper will take into consideration the underlined issues. First, contemporary demands for learning English to do business worldwide within the scope of professionally directed matters in order to communicate in business contexts, to improve employability prospects, and job opportunities worldwide is our main concern in the article. Second, genre theory is seen as the basis for the genre approach in directing learners to develop spoken and written communicative skills focusing on socially-oriented view of writing as to get and give information in the language for the special use of English terminology. The third major question concerns the issue of developed communicative minds in intercultural relations, the issue that must be highlighted as one of the 21.st century’s most important element in the foreign-language-teaching terminology. Insufficient knowledge of the cultural context and environment in which the business is taking place, as well as the principles on which business corporations are based can lead to business misunderstandings, breakdowns in communication, and, as a result, business transactions may slow down, even the complete cessation of interconnected business relationships may stop. The above mentioned three principles will form the basis of this paper in order to discuss the need for teaching business English.
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A PERSPECTIVE REGARDING DOPING IN SPORT AND THE THERAPEUTIC USE EXEMPTIONS
Abstract
Background. People may see the norms and rules as social constructs made to facilitate the cooperation between individuals. In this framework, the World Anti-Doping Agency has the role of ensuring a good function of the rules, including those which regulate the use of substances to enhance physical abilities. The difficulty consists in detaching the cases of doping from those which allow the administration of prohibited substances under the justification of therapeutic needs. Some athletes and coaches perceive the Therapeutic Use Exemptions as legal doping, a comparison which is the basis of the requirement to reduce the permissivity in using treatments during competitions for those who have certain medical problems.
Objectives. The purpose of this study is to show that the tightening of the rules for those athletes who have medical problems is not desirable. Moreover, the research emphasizes that a reconsideration of prohibited substances is necessary, encouraging a greater permissivity in using them.
Methods. Two methods are used to argue this claim: the first one, based on bibliographic research, will show that the interdiction of some substances has not a stable foundation, denouncing, at the same time, an arbitrary character; the second method will show that the equality principle and the respect for other competitors are not infringed by the athletes who are using prohibited substances for medical purposes.
Conclusion. The research will lead to the conclusion that the possession of therapeutic use exemptions is not
morally problematic. Moreover, it will emphasize the reasons why the World Anti-Doping Agency should not punish the athletes who accidentally break the anti-doping rules.