Author: Ida Wahidah

Exploring the impact of physical education on students’ psychological well-being. A systematic literature study

Ida Wahidah

 

Ida Wahidah – Exploring the impact of physical education on students’ psychological well-being. A systematic literature study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 70-80

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19SPWZ

Abstract
The psychological well-being of students is a critical aspect of their overall development, influencing academic performance, social relationships, and adaptability. Physical education (PE) has been identified as a key contributor to mental health, offering benefits such as stress reduction, emotional stability, and improved mood. This study aims to systematically review the literature on the impact of PE and related factors on students’ psychological well-being. This study employs a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Relevant articles published between 2019 and 2024 were sourced from databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, using keywords like “physical education” and “psychological well-being.” After a rigorous screening process, 13 studies were included for in-depth analysis. Data were extracted systematically, focusing on methodologies, sample characteristics, and key findings. The review highlights five main findings. First, teachers’ need-supportive behaviors enhance students’ motivation and well-being, while need-thwarting behaviors negatively impact psychological outcomes. Second, interventions in school environments, particularly those promoting physical activity, foster mental health and social connections. Third, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted physical activity levels, leading to a decline in mental health, especially among active students. Fourth, regular exercise, particularly light to moderate intensity, significantly improves cognitive and emotional well-being. Finally, protective factors like resilience, mindfulness, and social support mitigate stress and strengthen psychological stability. The findings emphasize the interconnected roles of teacher behavior, school environment, physical activity, and personal resilience in shaping students’ mental health. Holistic approaches integrating these elements can enhance the effectiveness of PE in promoting well-being. The pandemic underscored the need for adaptive strategies to maintain physical activity during crises. Physical education, supported by need-sensitive teaching, positive school environments, and personal resilience, is pivotal in fostering students’ psychological well-being. The insights from this review provide actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers to design interventions that promote holistic student development.

Key words
psychological well-being, physical education, school environment

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

The effects of aerobic exercise on sleep quality in overweight and obese individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Nurul Farah Shafiqa Mahtar, Noor Fatihah Ilias, Sazzli Shahlan Kasim, Hashbullah Ismail

 

Nurul Farah Shafiqa Mahtar, Noor Fatihah Ilias, Sazzli Shahlan Kasim, Hashbullah Ismail – The effects of aerobic exercise on sleep quality in overweight and obese individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 60-69

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D1979F2

Abstract
Background. Sleep quality is vital for health, impacting physical recovery, cognitive function, and emotional stability. Poor sleep quality is common in overweight and obese individuals. Evidence suggests aerobic exercise improves sleep quality by positively affecting physiological systems related to sleep regulation, making it a potential intervention for this group.
Objectives. This study evaluates the effect of aerobic exercise on sleep quality in overweight and obese individuals through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods. Four electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for randomized controlled trials (2008–2023) comparing aerobic exercise groups with control groups. Subjective sleep outcomes were measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and objective outcomes through actigraphy or polysomnography. Risk of bias was assessed using TESTEX, and meta-analyses utilized a random-effects model in RevMan 5.4.
Results. Sixteen trials (N = 1132) showed aerobic exercise significantly improved subjective sleep quality in overweight and obese individuals (lower PSQI scores, MD -1.53, 95% CI -2.88 to -0.19, p = 0.03). No significant improvements were observed in objective sleep outcomes (e.g., sleep time, latency, efficiency).
Conclusion. Aerobic exercise improves subjective sleep quality but not objective measures in overweight and obese populations. Further research is needed to explore its effects on objective sleep parameters.

Key words
aerobic exercise, sleep quality, subjective sleep quality, objective sleep quality, overweight, obese, meta-analysis

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Effectiveness of Mulligan “MWM” versus Spencer technique on functional ability in subjects with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder joint

Sundar Rajan M S, Kotteeswaran K, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Delphin Kavya D, Dinesh S, Koteeswari Arumugam

 

Sundar Rajan M S et al. – Effectiveness of Mulligan “MWM” versus Spencer technique on functional ability in subjects with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder joint –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 54-59

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19F64U

Abstract
Background. Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by pain and progressive loss of both active and passive shoulder range of motion due to capsular contracture and fibrosis. The Spencer technique focuses on mobilizing the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints. The Mulligan technique combines active movement with passive accessory mobilization to achieve pain-free motion by restoring impaired accessory glide.
Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of Mulligan “MWM” versus the Spencer technique in patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder joint using range of motion (ROM) and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI).
Methods. Forty subjects meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. The procedure was explained in detail, and informed consent was obtained before initiating the study. Pre- and post-test values were measured using ROM and SPADI. Participants were divided into two groups: Mulligan “MWM” with exercise (n = 20), and the Spencer technique with exercise (n = 20). Both groups received arm circles, pendulum stretch, towel stretch, wand exercise, wall climbing, and upper body stretch, three days a week for six weeks (2 sets of 10 repetitions with a 10-second hold).
Results. The data were statistically analyzed using an unpaired t-test. The Mulligan “MWM” group showed significantly greater improvement (p < 0.01) in pain reduction and functional ability compared to the Spencer technique, as measured by ROM and SPADI.
Conclusion. Mulligan “MWM” is more effective than the Spencer technique, when combined with exercise, in reducing pain and improving functional ability in individuals with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder joint.

Key words
adhesive capsulitis, range of motion, SPADI, Mulligan “MWM”, Spencer technique

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Improvement of dynamic balance in sedentary male adolescents after 8 weeks of Asian squat exercise

Sih Reka Prawidya, Damayanti Tinduh, Dewi Masrifah Ayub, Ratna Daryanti Soebadi, Mahmudah

 

Sih Reka Prawidya, Damayanti Tinduh, Dewi Masrifah Ayub, Ratna Daryanti Soebadi, Mahmudah – Improvement of dynamic balance in sedentary male adolescents after 8 weeks of Asian squat exercise –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 46-53

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19MKQJ

Abstract
Introduction. This study analyzes changes in dynamic balance among sedentary male adolescents following 8 weeks of Asian squat exercise.
Methods. This study was designed as a single-blind, randomized controlled trial. A total of 24 sedentary male students were randomly assigned to either the treatment group (n = 12), which performed Asian squat exercises three times per week for eight weeks, or the control group (n = 12), which did not receive any intervention. The outcome was measured using the Four-Square Step Test (FSST) before and after the intervention.
Results. A significant improvement in FSST results was observed in the treatment group at week 4 (p = 0.004) and week 8 (p < 0.001) after the intervention. At the end of the eight weeks, the treatment group showed a statistically significant improvement compared to the control group (p = 0.005), with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 1.29).
Conclusion. Eight weeks of Asian squat training is an effective and safe exercise to enhance dynamic balance in sedentary male adolescents.

Keywords
adolescent, postural balance, resistance training, student, sedentary

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Relationship between physical activity and obesity among university students

Azlan Ahmad Kamal, Amirul Naqiq Zainal Abidinv, Zarizi Ab Rahman, Abdul Afiq Muhaimin

 

Azlan Ahmad Kamal, Amirul Naqiq Zainal Abidinv, Zarizi Ab Rahman, Abdul Afiq Muhaimin – Relationship between physical activity and obesity among university students –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 35-45

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19PEB4

Abstract
Background. Cervical extension dysfunction is a common movement impairment of the cervical region. The Mulligan sustained natural apophyseal glide (SNAG) is frequently used in clinical practice to enhance movement, but there is limited evidence regarding its effect on improving regional function. This study aims to determine the effect of lower cervical SNAG on extension movement gain.
Materials and Methods. This quasi-experimental study enrolled 60 subjects with their consent. They were conveniently allocated into three groups. Self-SNAG, with or without specific exercises targeting neck and scapular muscles, and standard exercises were administered over 7 sessions spread across two weeks. Pain severity, cervical extension range, deep neck flexor strength, regional disability, and segmental facet position using roentgenogram were measured pre- and post-intervention.
Results. Significant improvements were observed in cervical extension range, deep flexor strength, and neck disability across all groups (p < 0.001). The group receiving SNAG and specific exercises demonstrated significantly better improvement (p < 0.005) in all outcomes compared to the other groups. The cervical segmental facet position also changed significantly following SNAG application (p < 0.001).
Conclusions. The study findings suggest that self-administered SNAG targeting the lower cervical segment, when combined with specific exercises, changes cervical segmental facet position, improves muscle performance, enhances regional function, and reduces pain among individuals with cervical extension dysfunction.

Key words
cervical extension dysfunction, cervical self-SNAG, deep neck flexor training, specific exercises

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Sea cucumber phytochemical compounds consumed after weight training intervention shown to reduce pain intensity in healthy men

Sri Gusti Handayani, Novadri Ayubi, Afifan Yulfadinata, Anton Komaini, Junian Cahyanto Wibawa, Ainun Zulfikar Rizki, Alvin Afandi, Procopio B. Dafun Jr., Mohammed Aljunaid

 

Sri Gusti Handayani et al. – Sea cucumber phytochemical compounds consumed after weight training intervention shown to reduce pain intensity in healthy men –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 28-34

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D197AH7

Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze whether sea cucumber supplementation after weight training can reduce pain intensity in healthy people. This experimental research uses a pre- and post-control group design. Subjects were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Subjects were divided into two groups, namely group K1 with placebo and K2 with sea cucumber supplementation at a dose of 500 mg. Supplementation was given in capsule form. Twenty healthy men took part in this study. Data collection was carried out for 3 days. On the first day, the subjects collected characteristic data. After that, the subjects were asked to warm up and then do weight training. Twenty-four hours after weight training, initial data collection was carried out by examining pain intensity. Then the subjects were given placebo and sea cucumber intervention based on their respective groups. Forty-eight hours after weight training, subjects collected post-test data on pain intensity. Findings showed that 500 mg sea cucumber intervention after resistance training significantly reduced pain intensity in healthy people (p < 0.05*). Apart from that, in the control group, there was also a significant reduction in pain intensity (p < 0.05*). It can be concluded that sea cucumber supplementation has been proven to reduce pain intensity. Regarding the control group which also experienced a significant decrease, it is necessary to carry out laboratory research to identify related pain intensity biomarkers to strengthen the research data.

Key words
sea cucumber, weight training, pain intensity

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Effectiveness of lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises versus conventional strengthening exercises on electromyographic analysis of vastus medialis oblique activation in knee osteoarthritis

Nevatha S, Kotteeswaran K, Kamalakannan M, Priyadarshini Babu Rajendra Prasad, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha

 

Nevatha S, Kotteeswaran K, Kamalakannan M, Priyadarshini Babu Rajendra Prasad, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha – Effectiveness of lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises versus conventional strengthening exercises on electromyographic analysis of vastus medialis oblique activation in knee osteoarthritis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 23-27

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19CE52

Abstract
Introduction. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating condition, particularly affecting the medial compartment of the tibiofemoral joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. Exercise therapy, including muscle strengthening, is a primary conservative treatment for managing OA symptoms. The vastus medialis oblique (VMO) plays a crucial role in patellar stability, and its dysfunction is frequently associated with knee OA, contributing to altered joint mechanics and increased pain. Lumbopelvic hip-core exercises focus on improving control of trunk and pelvic movements, which may influence lower limb alignment and reduce knee joint load. Conventional quadriceps strengthening exercises primarily target the knee extensors, with an emphasis on enhancing VMO function.
Aim. The aim of the study was to determine which exercise approach is more effective in enhancing VMO activation, improving knee stability, and optimizing rehabilitation outcomes.
Materials and methods. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 104 individuals diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis were recruited from Saveetha Hospital. Each group completed five exercise sessions per week over a four-week period. Electromyographic (EMG) analysis was used to assess muscle activation patterns and determine which intervention more effectively enhanced VMO activation.
Results. The post-test mean value for the experimental group was 60.29, while the control group had a mean of 48.15 (p < 0.0001). This indicated a statistically significant difference between the experimental and conventional exercise groups.
Conclusion. This study concludes that lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises are more effective than conventional quadriceps strengthening exercises in enhancing VMO activation, improving knee stability, and supporting rehabilitation in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

Key words
knee osteoarthritis, vastus medialis oblique, lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation, conventional strengthening, surface EMG

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

EFL needs analysis for speaking proficiency in Yogyakarta’s massage therapy sector

Titis Dewi Cakrawati, Anwar Efendi, Agus Widyantoro

 

Titis Dewi Cakrawati, Anwar Efendi, Agus Widyantoro – EFL needs analysis for speaking proficiency in Yogyakarta’s massage therapy sector –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 14-22

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19RSPT

Abstract
Study purpose. This study examines the English-speaking needs of massage therapists in beauty spas in the Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia, where the growing presence of international clients necessitates enhanced language proficiency. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to identify therapists’ linguistic needs, lacks, and necessities. Quantitative data show that 88% of respondents consider English proficiency crucial for improving service quality, while 81% report a lack of confidence when communicating with clients in English. Moreover, 89% of participants emphasize the need for learning materials relevant to their work, and 86% express a preference for practical speaking techniques that can be directly applied in therapy sessions. Qualitative interviews further illuminate the challenges therapists face, such as difficulties in expressing themselves clearly and the desire for interactive, technology-supported learning methods. The findings highlight a strong demand for practical, context-specific English language training to improve therapists’ ability to interact effectively with international clients. Key challenges include limited vocabulary, grammar, and confidence, which hinder therapists’ ability to explain services, address client concerns, and foster trust. Interactive, conversation-based methods, supported by multimedia tools such as videos and audio, are identified as preferred learning approaches. These methods align with global findings on effective communication in healthcare professions, such as physiotherapy, where contextualized and patient-centered communication significantly enhances therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of clear communication in delivering therapy instructions and home care recommendations, improving client adherence and satisfaction. By providing tailored language-learning resources that focus on real-world scenarios, this research bridges the gap in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) studies within the beauty and wellness sector.

Key words
needs analysis, massage therapists, speaking skills

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Prevalence of postural abnormalities among primary schoolchildren

Ewa Puszczałowska-Lizis, Kinga Szwed, Wioletta Mikuľáková, Martyna Dul

 

Ewa Puszczałowska-Lizis, Kinga Szwed, Wioletta Mikuľáková, Martyna Dul – Prevalence of postural abnormalities among primary schoolchildren –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 6-13

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19Z89D

Abstract
Introduction. Postural abnormalities are considered as a public health problem. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of body posture defects in girls and boys during early school period.
Material and methods. The research covered 150 children, including 7-year-olds (25 girls; 25 boys), 8-year-olds (25 girls; 25 boys) and 9-year-olds (25 girls and 25 boys) attending randomly selected primary schools in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, Poland. The body posture was assessed according to Kasperczyk’s scoring method. The Pearson Chi-square test, Mann Whitney U test, ANOVA Kruskal-Wallis test (with post hoc multiple comparisons test) were used to analyse the results.
Results. Positioning of the shoulders (among 52% of children were positioned asymmetrically or slightly forward, in 15% of children were strongly asymmetrically moved forward, the top of the shoulders was located in front of the contour of the neck), the abdomen (54% of children had a bulging stomach, but not protruding beyond the chest line, 23% of children had a bulging belly, protruding beyond the chest line, and 1% of children had a sagging stomach), and the foot (40% of children had a flattened foot, 17% of children had a pes planus, and 9% of children had a pes planovalgus) concerned the greatest variation in the frequency of abnormalities. Associations were observed between sex of 7-year-olds and frequency of postural abnormalities (p = 0.025), as well as between age of the studied boys and frequency of postural abnormalities (p = 0.001).
Conclusions. The shoulders, the abdomen, and the shape of the foot require special attention when taking and disseminating preventive and corrective actions. 7-year-old boys had worse body posture than 7-year-old girls, as well as 7-year-old boys obtained more penalty points than 9-year-old boys. This indicates the need for monitoring body posture and therapy, moreover this process should be characterized by continuity and mutual cooperation between therapists and the care and educational environment.

Key words
body posture, visual assessment, girls, boys

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Effectiveness of lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening in recreational footballers. A comparative study

Kaviyarasan P, Sarvan kumar J, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyadarshini Babu, Priyanga Seemathan, Priyadharshini V, Thiagarajan D

Kaviyarasan P et al. – Effectiveness of lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening in recreational footballers. A comparative study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 439-447

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007D9BZJ

Abstract
Introduction. The study investigates the effectiveness of lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening exercises versus conventional exercises among recreational football players. Enhancing endurance and agility is critical for performance in football, making it essential to identify optimal training methods.
Aim of the study. To evaluate and compare the effects of lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening and conventional exercise on endurance and agility in recreational football players.
Materials and methods. This experimental study involved 56 recreational football players selected from Saveetha University using convenient sampling. Participants were randomized into two groups:
1. Lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening group. Engaged in targeted exercises (lunges with dumbbells, reverse Nordic curls, dumbbell squat thrusts, agility T-drills, and single-leg box jumps) for 5 days a week over 6 weeks.
2. Conventional exercise group. Performed traditional exercises (squats, lunges, calf raises, step-ups, and crunches) under the same schedule.
Each group underwent a 5-minute warm-up and cool-down. Outcome measures included the 30 Seconds Endurance Jump Test and the Agility T Test, which were assessed post-intervention.
Results. The results indicated that the conventional group’s post-test mean endurance was 38.71, while the antigravity muscle strengthening group achieved 42.68. For agility, the conventional group scored 11.8282, compared to 10.64957 for the antigravity group. Both interventions showed significant improvements with p-values less than 0.0001.
Conclusion. Both training methods led to positive enhancements in endurance and agility, with the lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening group demonstrating superior results. This suggests that integrating both training styles may optimize performance for recreational football players.
Key words
lower limb antigravity muscle strengthening, endurance, conventional exercise, agility
Pobierz/Download/下載/Cкачиваете Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

1 2 3 4 … 171