title: Validity, reliability, and normative data on calf muscle function in rugby union players from the Calf Raise application

authors: Hébert-Losier, Kim

subjects: biomechanics

abstract: We examined the validity and reliability of biomechanical outcomes extracted using the Calf Raise application of three calf muscle tests. We then established normative calf muscle function values for male rugby union players accounting for rugby-related factors (position, level) alone and together with clinical factors (age, leg dominance, BMI, previous injury). In total, 120 athletes performed three single-leg calf muscle tests. Twenty athletes participated in application validation; 18 in test–retest reliability; and all in establishing normative equations. Validity of application outcomes against 3D motion and force plate data was good-to-excellent (CV ≤ 6.6%, ICC ≥0.84). Test–retest reliability was good across outcomes following familiarisation (CV < 10%, ICC ≥0.83). Forwards produced superior power than backs during the bodyweight (59 W, p = 0.007) and weighted (73 W, p < 0.001) power tests. Playing level influenced power outcomes (p < 0.009). Super Rugby players were more powerful than Club (both power tests), Provincial (both power tests), and International (bodyweight power). Backs completed more repetitions (3 repetitions, p = 0.001) and positive displacement (30 cm, p = 0.001) than forwards during endurance testing. When accounting for clinical factors; BMI, age, and previous injury explained some of the differences observed between positions and levels. This study provides initial benchmark values of calf muscle function in rugby union.

text: Validity, reliability, and normative data on calf muscle function in rugby union players from the Calf Raise application We examined the validity and reliability of biomechanical outcomes extracted using the Calf Raise application of three calf muscle tests. We then established normative calf muscle function values for male rugby union players accounting for rugby-related factors (position, level) alone and together with clinical factors (age, leg dominance, BMI, previous injury). In total, 120 athletes performed three single-leg calf muscle tests. Twenty athletes participated in application validation; 18 in test–retest reliability; and all in establishing normative equations. Validity of application outcomes against 3D motion and force plate data was good-to-excellent (CV ≤ 6.6%, ICC ≥0.84). Test–retest reliability was good across outcomes following familiarisation (CV < 10%, ICC ≥0.83). Forwards produced superior power than backs during the bodyweight (59 W, p = 0.007) and weighted (73 W, p < 0.001) power tests. Playing level influenced power outcomes (p < 0.009). Super Rugby players were more powerful than Club (both power tests), Provincial (both power tests), and International (bodyweight power). Backs completed more repetitions (3 repetitions, p = 0.001) and positive displacement (30 cm, p = 0.001) than forwards during endurance testing. When accounting for clinical factors; BMI, age, and previous injury explained some of the differences observed between positions and levels. This study provides initial benchmark values of calf muscle function in rugby union.

year: 2022

title: Automated Technology Based Behavioural Intervention to Promote Exercise Adherence: A Pilot Study to Ascertain Efficacy

authors: Allen, Vincent Thor

subjects: Exercise adherence

abstract: Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for a range of physical and mental health problems. Development of automated exercise therapy options will result in greater accessibility of treatment for those who would be otherwise unable to access it. The purpose of this study was to design and evaluate an automated technology based behavioural intervention for the purpose of increasing the participant’s physical exercise adherence.
The study was run as a non-concurrent multiple baseline across participants design over a 12 week period. Nine participants (2 male, 7 female) aged 18 to 34 (M = 23.11) took part in the study. They completed a baseline phase of three to six weeks during which exercise data were recorded. The intervention phase lasted seven to eight weeks, during which an intervention was delivered via email and online survey in an attempt to increase physical exercise, and promote long term exercise adherence. Effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using measures of duration and intensity of exercise activity, and an 18 item Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale.
For most participants there was a significant increase in exercise activity and exercise self-efficacy score as a result of the intervention. Component analysis of the intervention provided information as to which aspects were effective, and which may need to be modified for subsequent iterations. These results show that an automated technology based behavioural intervention can increase exercise behaviour in such a way that promotes long term adherence. Future studies could focus on using a smartphone app as the delivery method for similar interventions as this would allow for additional features to be added, and more effective delivery of the aspects of the intervention that have been shown to work.

text: Automated Technology Based Behavioural Intervention to Promote Exercise Adherence: A Pilot Study to Ascertain Efficacy Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for a range of physical and mental health problems. Development of automated exercise therapy options will result in greater accessibility of treatment for those who would be otherwise unable to access it. The purpose of this study was to design and evaluate an automated technology based behavioural intervention for the purpose of increasing the participant’s physical exercise adherence.
The study was run as a non-concurrent multiple baseline across participants design over a 12 week period. Nine participants (2 male, 7 female) aged 18 to 34 (M = 23.11) took part in the study. They completed a baseline phase of three to six weeks during which exercise data were recorded. The intervention phase lasted seven to eight weeks, during which an intervention was delivered via email and online survey in an attempt to increase physical exercise, and promote long term exercise adherence. Effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using measures of duration and intensity of exercise activity, and an 18 item Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale.
For most participants there was a significant increase in exercise activity and exercise self-efficacy score as a result of the intervention. Component analysis of the intervention provided information as to which aspects were effective, and which may need to be modified for subsequent iterations. These results show that an automated technology based behavioural intervention can increase exercise behaviour in such a way that promotes long term adherence. Future studies could focus on using a smartphone app as the delivery method for similar interventions as this would allow for additional features to be added, and more effective delivery of the aspects of the intervention that have been shown to work.

year: 2015

title: Urban Māori Whānau Connection / Re Connection to Cultural Confidence Via Wānanga

authors: Maihi, Bonnie

abstract: The  purpose  of this research is to explore and interrogate  dynamics  involved  with positive health and transformation of urban Māori whānau and the challenges of pursuing this using the medium of wānanga. The research component of this thesis rest around a recent series of whānau wānanga held and embarked on in partnership with my whānau through a journey of re-connecting back to our whakapapa, marae and our culture. Current statistics for Māori reflect health and well-being as a site of continuous struggle and one where much work is necessary to ensure equitable outcomes for Māori. While equitable outcomes are an ‘in the future’ dream what remains is asking what steps do we have to take as a whānau? What is the Māori culture that we must capture, know, and strive for, in our whānau journey of self-discovery?

The theoretical framework guiding this thesis is that of Kaupapa Māori. Within Kaupapa Māori theory acknowledgement and recognition of the effects of colonisation, destruction of culture and power 
imbalances are known as a given, with no need to question the validity of whether or not these are true accounts. A comprehensive literature review covering wānanga, Māori culture, Māori health &  well-being, sustainability and more is included in this study. In terms of the research component, five significant themes have been sourced from a series of semi-structured interviews to best represent the experiences of my whānau members pertaining to connection to whakapapa; te reo Māori; tikanga Māori and marae. They are as follows: structural inequality; influences on Māori identity; cultural confidence; whānau capacities; and resistive strategies.

Results identified spaces of progress and spaces that needed strengthening in relation to whānau building cultural confidence and connection to a Māori identity. In conclusion, this thesis ascertains a need for whānau to foster appreciation for lifelong learning and a compassionate approach for those teaching as key markers for nurturing and reconnecting urban Māori whānau to their cultural roots.

text: Urban Māori Whānau Connection / Re Connection to Cultural Confidence Via Wānanga The  purpose  of this research is to explore and interrogate  dynamics  involved  with positive health and transformation of urban Māori whānau and the challenges of pursuing this using the medium of wānanga. The research component of this thesis rest around a recent series of whānau wānanga held and embarked on in partnership with my whānau through a journey of re-connecting back to our whakapapa, marae and our culture. Current statistics for Māori reflect health and well-being as a site of continuous struggle and one where much work is necessary to ensure equitable outcomes for Māori. While equitable outcomes are an ‘in the future’ dream what remains is asking what steps do we have to take as a whānau? What is the Māori culture that we must capture, know, and strive for, in our whānau journey of self-discovery?

The theoretical framework guiding this thesis is that of Kaupapa Māori. Within Kaupapa Māori theory acknowledgement and recognition of the effects of colonisation, destruction of culture and power 
imbalances are known as a given, with no need to question the validity of whether or not these are true accounts. A comprehensive literature review covering wānanga, Māori culture, Māori health &  well-being, sustainability and more is included in this study. In terms of the research component, five significant themes have been sourced from a series of semi-structured interviews to best represent the experiences of my whānau members pertaining to connection to whakapapa; te reo Māori; tikanga Māori and marae. They are as follows: structural inequality; influences on Māori identity; cultural confidence; whānau capacities; and resistive strategies.

Results identified spaces of progress and spaces that needed strengthening in relation to whānau building cultural confidence and connection to a Māori identity. In conclusion, this thesis ascertains a need for whānau to foster appreciation for lifelong learning and a compassionate approach for those teaching as key markers for nurturing and reconnecting urban Māori whānau to their cultural roots.

year: 2016