Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 Spatio-Temporal Parameters and Range of Motion of Lower Limb Joints During Running in Individuals with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis with Mild Thoracic and Lumbar Curvature 344 359 FA Zahra Naeimvafa Sports Biomechanics Department, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran. Nader Farahpour Sports Biomechanics Department, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran. Gabriel Moisan Department of Human Kinetics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada. Objective Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) disrupts postural balance and movement control. The biomechanics of running in this population are not well understood. This study investigated spatiotemporal parameters and lower limb joint kinematics during running in AIS patients compared to healthy controls. Methods Fifteen female patients with AIS (right thoracic: 21.5±2.7°; and left lumbar: 23.1±1.6°), along with 15 healthy controls, participated in this study. Participants performed a running task at their self-selected speed while markers were attached at landmarks based on the Full-body lumbar spine model. An 8-camera Qualisys system and two Kistler force plates were used to capture the markers' spatial position and record the ground reaction forces, respectively. The data were digitized using Qualisys Track Manager (QTM), and the spatiotemporal and kinematic data were calculated using Visual3D software. MANOVA and Statistical Parametric Mapping tests were used to analyze between-group differences (p<0.05). Results The AIS patients had lower height, body mass, and BMI (P < 0.05) than the control group. No significant differences were observed in spatiotemporal variables between the two groups. In the AIS patients, the abduction-adduction range of motion (ROM) on the right hip (p= 0.045) and the left knee (p= 0.058) were reduced, while inversion-eversion motion on the right ankle (p= 0.025) was greater in the AIS patients. Conclusion In AIS patients with mild thoracic and lumbar curvatures, the abduction-adduction of the hip and knee, along with the inversion-eversion of the ankle, are altered. These changes may represent a neuromuscular adaptation aimed at optimizing balance during running. Rehabilitation that emphasizes strengthening the lower limb muscles is recommended for these patients.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 The Effect of Post-Activation Performance Enhancement Using Ballistic Movements, Heavy Resistance, and Dynamic Stretching on Barbell Balance During the Bench Press 360 376 FA Yousef Hedayati Department of Sports Biomechanics, Faculty of physical education and sports Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. Mohammad Reza Amirseyfaddini Department of Sports Biomechanics, Faculty of physical education and sports Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. Mohammadtaghi Amiri Khorasani Department of Sports Biomechanics, Faculty of physical education and sports Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. Objective Warm-up aimed at inducing the physiological phenomenon of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) is considered one of the most important factors in improving athletic performance. Moreover, barbell balance at the end of the concentric phase of the bench press is regarded as a key factor in powerlifting competitions. This study aimed to compare the effects of ballistic, heavy-resistance, and dynamic stretching warm-up protocols on barbell balance at the end of the concentric phase of the bench press in male students. Methods Eighteen male students (mean age: 23.8 ± 1.3 years; height: 174.4 ± 3.36 cm; body mass: 74.4 ± 3.8 kg) with at least one year of training experience participated in this study. After determining the one-repetition maximum (1RM) for each subject, participants were randomly assigned to three groups (A, B, and C) and tested on three separate days with 72 hours of rest between sessions. A 3D motion analysis system was used, and each subject performed a 1RM bench press following the designated warm-up protocol. Barbell balance at the end of the concentric phase of the bench press was assessed. Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. Results Significant differences were observed between the ballistic warm-up protocol and both the heavy-resistance and dynamic stretching protocols (F = 20.2, p = 0.001, η² = 0.44), with ballistic warm-up demonstrating superior barbell balance at the end of the concentric phase. Conclusion The findings suggest that warming up with ballistic exercises, compared to heavy resistance or dynamic stretching, has a positive effect on barbell balance at the end of the concentric phase of the bench press.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 The Immediate Effect of Kinesiotaping on Lower Limb Movement Patterns in Soccer Athletes with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Quasi-Experimental Study 378 390 FA Harem Abdalqadir Mohammed Physical Education and Sport Sciences Department, University of Halabja, Halabja, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Renas Abdullah Ali Physical Education and Sport Sciences Department, University of Halabja, Halabja, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Aso Ali Mohammed Physical Education and Sport Sciences Department, University of Halabja, Halabja, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Karwan Ali Faiaq Habib Physical Education and Sport Sciences Department, University of Halabja, Halabja, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Objective In soccer players with chronic ankle instability, lower limb movement patterns are altered, which may increase the risk of injuries, particularly ankle sprains. The present study aimed to evaluate the immediate effect of kinesiotaping on functional movement patterns of the lower limb in soccer players with chronic ankle instability. Methods Thirty male soccer players with chronic ankle instability participated in this study. Functional movement patterns of the lower limb—including deep squat, hurdle step, and in-line lunge—were assessed before and after tape application. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare the results between the pre- and post-intervention phases. Results Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements after kinesiotaping in the deep squat (P < 0.001, ES = 0.582), hurdle step (P < 0.001, ES = 0.800), and in-line lunge (P < 0.001, ES = 0.810). Conclusion The findings indicate that kinesiotaping immediately enhances functional movement patterns of the lower limb in soccer players with chronic ankle instability. These improvements are likely mediated by increased proprioception, enhanced joint stability, and reduced fear of movement, which may indirectly contribute to better joint protection.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 AI-Guided vs. Traditional Training in Adolescent Soccer Players: Effects on Performance and Injury Risk 392 409 EN Fatima Tus Johora Mukta Department of Physical Education & Sports Science, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. Jannatul Ferdaus Rickta Department of Physical Education & Sports Science, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. Md. Yeasir Arafat Physical Education Office; Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology, Bangladesh. Objective Artificial intelligence (AI)-guided training methods provide a personalized approach, leveraging real-time physiological and biomechanical data to optimize performance and reduce injury risk. The present research compared a 12-week AI-guided personalized training program with traditional coach-led training on performance metrics and injury incidence in adolescent football players. Methods A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with 60 adolescent athletes (ages 14–17 years) recruited from a football academy. Pre- and post-intervention performance was assessed using the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), 20 m sprint, T-test (agility), and countermovement jump (CMJ), while injury incidence was monitored by a certified physiotherapist. Results The AI-guided group demonstrated significantly greater improvements than the control group in FMS scores (+20%), sprint time (−4.93%), agility (−6.48%), and CMJ height (+11.86%), with large effect sizes (d = 0.88–1.42). Injury incidence was significantly lower in the AI group (10%) compared with the control group (36.7%) (p = .034; risk ratio = 3.67; 95% Confidence Interval). Conclusion These findings highlight the efficacy of AI-driven training in enhancing athletic performance and reducing injury risk among adolescent athletes, emphasizing the value of personalized, data-informed approaches over traditional methods. Further research with larger cohorts and extended follow-ups is recommended to validate these results across diverse sports populations.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 Tests for Evaluating Psychological Factors Related to Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Scoping Review 410 423 FA Ahmad Kazemi Pakdel Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercise, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran. Fereshteh Kazemi Pakdel University of Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercise, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran. Safoora Sabaghian Rad Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities University of Qom, Qom, Iran. Objective Psychological evaluation tests are widely used to assess athletes’ readiness after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R), focusing on emotions, confidence in performance, and risk perception regarding return to sport. This scoping review aimed to identify and analyze psychological evaluation tools used to measure athletes’ readiness after ACL-R. Methods A scoping review was conducted using four electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), and Web of Science. The search period spanned from 2003 to October 1, 2024. Two independent reviewers screened all records. Extracted data included publication year, study setting, participant demographics, purpose of psychological assessment, and psychometric properties of the tests. Results Six studies involving six psychological assessment tools were included. These instruments were the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI), Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), Injury–Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport (I-PRRS) scale, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) questionnaire, and the Short Version of the ACL-RSI. Conclusion The original ACL-RSI is a 12-item instrument, whereas the short version includes 6 items, both scored using a 10-cm visual analog scale ranging from 0 to 100. The I-PRRS is a 6-item scale measuring injured athletes’ psychological readiness to return to sport. The TSK is a 17-item self-reported questionnaire assessing fear of reinjury or physical activity. The IKDC is an 18-item, knee-specific, patient-reported outcome measure evaluating symptoms, function, and sports activity. The KOOS is a knee-specific instrument designed to assess subjective knee function. Based on available evidence, these instruments demonstrate acceptable validity and reliability and can be considered appropriate tools for evaluating psychological readiness after ACL-R.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 Biomechanical Changes of the Knee During Jump-Landing Tasks: A Longitudinal Study of Military Cadets at Imam Ali (AS) University 424 437 FA Hamid Omidi Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Command and management, Imam Ali Military' University, Tehran, Iran. Reza Sabzevari Rad Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Command and management, Imam Ali Military' University, Tehran, Iran. Moosareza Ghorbani Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercise, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran. Objective This study aimed to examine changes in knee flexion and abduction angles among military cadets at Imam Ali (AS) University during a jump-landing task following a period of intensive military training. Given the high prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in military personnel and the influence of movement patterns on such injuries, this research sought to identify biomechanical adaptations resulting from military training. Methods In this quasi-experimental study, 30 male cadets (mean age: 19.71 ± 2.30 years; height: 182.66 ± 6.21 cm; weight: 71.83 ± 7.71 kg) were assessed in two phases: a pre-test at the beginning of their first academic year and a post-test at the end of the year. A standardized jump-landing protocol was used. Kinematic data were collected using two Canon cameras (120 Hz) positioned in the frontal and sagittal planes and analyzed with Kinovea software (version 2.0). Knee flexion and abduction angles were measured at two critical moments: initial ground contact (first frame of foot-surface contact) and peak flexion (frame showing maximum knee flexion). Data were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA in SPSS version 25. Results Significant biomechanical changes in landing mechanics were observed. In the dominant leg, knee flexion at peak landing decreased significantly from 96.26° to 87.27° (p = 0.028), while knee abduction increased from 12.32° to 17.44° (p = 0.007). These changes were less pronounced in the non-dominant leg (flexion: 93.50° to 89.48°; abduction: 13.95° to 15.48°). A significant time × leg interaction (F = 5.12, p = 0.028) indicated the development of asymmetrical movement patterns after training. Conclusion Intensive military training induces potentially risky biomechanical adaptations, particularly reduced flexion and increased abduction in the dominant knee, which may elevate ACL injury risk. Incorporating proper landing techniques and neuromuscular training into military programs is recommended to mitigate these risks.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 Effects of an Integrated Balance and Muscle Tension Control Training Program on Kinematic Variables and Defensive Accuracy in Volleyball Players 438 464 EN Moneer Fadel Ali Hassan Physical Education and Sports Sciences College, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq. Omar Waleed Abdulkareem Physical Education and Sports Sciences College, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq. Objective This study aims to investigate the impact of integrated training on kinematics variables and defensive accuracy in volleyball, focusing on enhancing balance and muscle tension control through proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) exercises. Methods The sample consisted of 14 male volleyball athletes from the first volleyball league of Al-Jaish Sports Club were divided into experimental (n=7) and control group (n=7). In the pre- and post-intervention periods, dynamic balance, muscle tension control and kinematic variables (during a lateral reaching task) as well as defensive performance accuracy upon fatigue onset of recoil laser strikes were assessed. Exposure the intervention program was carried out for six weeks, and the following measuring tools were used to assess performance, Y-Balance Test as well as sEMG and kinematic variables using Kinovea. Results Compared with the control- group, individuals in the experimental- group demonstrated significantly improved performance at balance (Y-Balance Test, Cohen's d = 1.42), muscle activity and tension control (sEMG, Cohen's d = 1.38) and defensive ability accuracy (Cohen's d = 1.60). Kinematic variables revealed moderate to large enhancements in knee, hip, shoulder, elbow ankle and trunk angles where effect size ranged from 1.03 to 1.49 (Cohen's d). Control group, as expected, showed mild changes in all studied variables. Conclusion The combined training program enhanced volleyball players’ biomechanical efficiency and defensive performance, highlighting its potential to boost performance, reduce injury risk, and improve coaching effectiveness.

Islamic Azad University, Hamedan Branch Journal of Sport Biomechanics 2476-4906 11 4 2026 3 1 Impact of Lower-Limb Fatigue on Kinetic Risk Factors for ACL Injury During Post-Spike Landings in Volleyball Athletes 466 484 EN Rafe Mohammad Zaheri Department of Sport Biomechanics, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran. Mahdi Majlesi Department of Sport Biomechanics, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran. Ali Fatahi Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Objective Limited evidence exists regarding biomechanical asymmetries between dominant and non-dominant limbs following fatigue in double-leg landings. The present study investigated potential risk factors for ACL injury during post-spike landings in elite volleyball athletes. Methods This study used a cross-sectional experimental design with twenty-eight elite male volleyball players. Fatigue was induced using the Bosco squat jump test, and spike landings were assessed pre- and post-fatigue. Three-dimensional kinematics (200 Hz, Vicon system) and ground reaction forces (1000 Hz, Kistler plates) were collected, and hip, knee, and ankle joint moments were calculated. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (factors: fatigue × limb dominance, p < 0.05). Results The results demonstrated a significant decrease in vertical jump height among volleyball players after experiencing fatigue (p = 0.000). Additionally, fatigue led to a substantial reduction in joint moment across all joints (p < 0.05). The findings revealed an asymmetry in moment values between the dominant and non-dominant legs, with the dominant leg exhibiting a greater moment in the frontal plane and a lower moment in the sagittal plane compared to the non-dominant leg (p < 0.05). Conclusion According to the results, fatigue led to a decrease in jump height and consequently reduced moment in most joints during landing. Additionally, regardless of fatigue, the difference between the dominant and non-dominant legs was significant in most cases, indicating a higher risk of ACL injury in the dominant leg. Therefore, asymmetry in kinetic variables between the two legs may be a more critical factor in ACL injury risk.