Browsing by Person "McEwan, Gary"

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Changes in body composition in elite soccer players in response to pre-season training [Oral Presentation]
(Isokinetic Medical Group, 2018-06-04) McEwan, Gary; Drobnic, Franchek; Lizarraga, Antonia; Gómez Díaz, Antonio; Pons, Eduard; Dello Iacono, Antonio; Unnithan, Viswanath
Changes in markers of body composition of professional male soccer players during pre-season
(Chengdu Sport University, 2020-09-06) McEwan, Gary; Drobnic, Franchek; Lizarraga, Antonia; Gómez Díaz, Antonio; Pons, Eduard; Dello Iacon, Antonio; Unnithan, Viswanath
To evaluate changes achieved in whole-body and regional (upper limbs, lower limbs, and trunk) estimates of body composition, twenty professional male soccer players (7 defenders, 7 midfielders, 6 forwards) underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) analysis at the beginning and end of pre-season. Measures included: mass, fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), and body fat per cent (BF%). Players’ activity during on-field training sessions was monitored using Global Positioning System (GPS) units, with GPS data used to obtain estimations of energy expenditure (EE). Whole-body mass remained unchanged across the pre-season. Moderate significant increases and decreases were achieved in whole-body FFM (Pre: 59.58 ± 5.27 kg; Post: 60.61 ± 5.18 kg; p = 0.001; d = 0.87) and FM (Pre: 10.60 ± 1.88 kg; Post: 9.56 ± 1.81 kg; p = 0.001; d = 0.85), respectively. Moderate significant decreases were achieved in whole-body BF% (Pre: 14.4 ± 2.3%; Post: 12.9 ± 2.0%; p < 0.001; d = 0.94). No significant inter-positional differences were observed for the changes achieved in any global or regional estimate of body composition. Total EE was significantly correlated with ΔFM (r = 0.65, p = 0.002), ΔFFM (r = 0.46, p = 0.03), and ΔBF% (r = 0.67, p = 0.002). The total EE of pre-season training accounted for 42%, 21%, and 45% of the variance in ΔFM, ΔFFM, and ΔBF%, respectively. These findings suggest that the pre-season period is a suitable time for initiating favourable alterations in body composition following the off-season in elite soccer players.
Correlational data concerning body centre of mass acceleration, muscle activity, and forces exerted during a suspended lunge under different stability conditions in high-standard track and field athletes
(Elsevier, 2019-11-30) Aguilera-Castells, Joan; Buscà, Bernat; Arboix-Alió, Jordi; McEwan, Gary; Calleja-González, Julio; Peña, Javier
This article reports data concerning the body centre of mass acceleration, muscle activity, and forces exerted during a suspended lunge under different stability conditions. Ten high-standard track and field athletes were recruited to perform one set of 5 repetitions of the following exercises: suspended lunge, suspended lunge-Foam (front leg on a foam balance-pad and the rear leg on the suspension cradles), a suspended lunge-BOSU up (dome side up), and a suspended lunge-BOSU down (dome side down). For each exercise trial, the acceleration of the body centre of mass (tri-axial accelerometer BIOPAC), the muscle activity of the front leg (surface electromyography BIOPAC) and the force exerted on the suspension strap (load cell Phidgets) were measured. The data revealed that the intra-reliability of the data range from good (ICC: 0.821) to excellent (ICC: 0.970) in all dependent variables and exercise conditions. Besides, the Pearson correlation between muscle activity and the body centre of mass acceleration showed a significant positive correlation for all the exercises and analysed muscles (range from r = 0.393 to r = 0.826; p < 0.05) with moderate to very large effect, except for the rectus and biceps femoris. Moreover, the force exerted on the suspension strap significantly correlated with the body centre of mass acceleration in all the exercises (range from r = −0.595 to r = −0.797, p < 0.05) with a very large effect, except for the suspension lunge that registered a large effect.
Decision-making accuracy of soccer referees in relation to markers of internal and external load
(2024-02-23) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath B.; Easton, Chris; Glover, Andrew J.; Arthur, Rosie
Data related to the paper: McEwan, G.P., Unnithan, V.B., Easton, C., Glover, A. J., and Arthur, R (2024). Decision-making accuracy of soccer referees in relation to markers of internal and external load. European Journal of Sport Science. (preprint) https://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/13682
Decision-making accuracy of soccer referees in relation to markers of internal and external load
(Wiley, 2024-03-18) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath B.; Easton, Chris; Glover, Andrew J.; Arthur, Rosie
This study examined the relationships between the decision-making performances of soccer referees and markers of physiological load. Following baseline measurements and habituation procedures, 13 national-level male referees completed a novel Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS) whilst simultaneously adjudicating on a series of video-based decision-making clips. The correctness of each decision was assessed in relation to the mean heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), minute ventilation (V̇E), perceptions of breathlessness (RPE-B) and local muscular (RPE-M) exertion, and running speeds recorded in the 10-s and 60-s preceding decisions. There was a significant association between decision-making accuracy and the mean HR (P=0.042; VC=0.272) and RR (P=0.024, VC=0.239) in the 10-s preceding decisions, with significantly more errors observed when HR ≥90% of HRmax (OR, 5.39) and RR ≥80% of RRpeak (OR, 3.34). Decision-making accuracy was also significantly associated with the mean running speeds performed in the 10-s (P=0.003; VC=0.320) and 60-s (P=0.016; VC=0.253) preceding decisions, with workloads of ≥250 m·min-1 associated with an increased occurrence of decisional errors (OR, 3.84). Finally, there was a significant association between decision-making accuracy and RPE-B (P=0.021; VC=0.287), with a disproportionate number of errors occurring when RPE-B was rated as “very strong” to “maximal” (OR, 7.19). Collectively, the current data offer novel insights into the detrimental effects that high workloads may have upon the decision-making performances of soccer referees. Such information may be useful in designing combined physical and decision-making training programmes that prepare soccer referees for the periods of match play that prove most problematic to their decision-making.
Development and validation of the Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ): Towards a better understanding of the training practices of soccer match officials [Oral Presentation]
(European College of Sport Science, 2019-09-03) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath; Easton, Chris; Arthur, Rosie
INTRODUCTION As the training of soccer referees is typically self-led, direct observation and monitoring of training is seldom possible (1). Consequently, relatively little information currently exists on the training practices of soccer referees (2). Efficacious and accessible methods of monitoring referee training are therefore required. Accordingly, we sought to develop and validate a novel measurement tool, termed The Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ), for assessing the training practices of soccer referees. METHODS To develop and validate the RTAQ, we employed a systematic multi-stage process: 1) item generation; 2) assessments of content and face validity; and 3) assessments of criterion validity (3). In stage 1, we generated items based upon a review of the literature and semi-structured interviews with a sample of refereeing experts (n = 8). In stage 2, items were assessed for content and face validity by a sample of referees and academics experienced in questionnaire design (n = 6), with the content validity index (CVI) calculated (4). In stage 3, a sample of referees (n = 25) completed the RTAQ and subsequently recorded a detailed 7-day training diary. Additionally, we obtained objective estimates of physical training activity through heart rate data which was used to corroborate the self-report data of the training diaries. RESULTS Following stage 1, we constructed the preliminary RTAQ to include items pertaining to: 1) general training information (16 items); and 2) specific-training practices (66 items). In stage 2, content validity was confirmed for 66 items (CVI ≥ 0.78) with 16 items being deemed invalid (CVI < 0.78). We used participant feedback, alongside content validity indices, to discard or revise problematic items. In stage 3, estimates of training activity derived from the training diaries and heart rate monitors were found to be strongly related (r > 0.96; P < 0.001). Additionally, negligible mean biases, moderate 95% LOA, and significant correlations were observed for most items with those exhibiting insufficient agreement (11 items) subsequently excluded or modified as per participant feedback. CONCLUSION The present results provide initial evidence that the RTAQ is a valid and reliable means of acquiring insight into the training practices of soccer referees. The development of a self-report measure in the form of the RTAQ will provide practitioners and researchers with a practical means of monitoring the training practices of soccer referees.
Development and validation of the Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ): Towards a better understanding of the training practices of soccer officials
(Routledge, 2020-08-10) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath; Easton, Chris; Arthur, Rosie
To develop and assess the validity of the Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ), a systematic process was employed: 1) item generation; 2) assessments of content and face validity; and 3) assessments of criterion validity. In stage 1, items were generated following semi-structured interviews with an expert panel (n = 8). Following content analyses, the RTAQ was developed and comprised 3 primary sections (12 sub-sections) assessing: 1) attributes perceived to underpin soccer officiating performance; 2) general training information; and 3) specific training practices. In stage 2, the preliminary RTAQ was assessed for content and face validity by a sample of experts (n = 6). Based upon the content validity index (CVI), content validity was confirmed for 8 sub-sections (CVI ≥ 0.78) with 5 sub-sections being deemed invalid (CVI < 0.78). Various amendments were carried out in accordance with participant feedback. In stage 3, the RTAQ was completed by a cohort of officials (n = 25) who subsequently recorded a detailed training diary. Negligible mean biases, wide 95% LOA, and significant Pearson correlations were observed between the RTAQ and training diaries for most training activities, suggesting the RTAQ holds promise as a useful and effective alternative of acquiring insight into the training practices of soccer officials.
Frame Running as a community-based exercise option for young people with moderate-to-severe walking impairments: a feasibility study
(Taylor & Francis Group, 2024-12-29) Andreopoulou, Georgia; van der Linden, Marietta; Theis, Nicola; Thacker, Elizabeth; McEwan, Gary; Koufaki, Pelagia; Jagadamma, Kavi; Curnow, Eleanor; Phillips, Shaun; van Schie, Petra E.M.; Ryan, Jennifer M.
Frame Running is an adapted community-based exercise option for people with moderate-to-severe walking impairments. This mixed-methods study aimed to examine the feasibility of 1) community-based Frame Running by young people with moderate-to-severe walking impairments and 2) conducting future studies on the impact of Frame Running on functional mobility and cardiometabolic disease risk factors. Weekly training sessions and data collection occurred in two sites. Quantitative data were collected at baseline, and after 12 (both sites) and 24 (one site) weeks of training, followed by interviews or focus groups. Consent and retention rates, attendance and outcome measure completion rates were calculated. Qualitative data were analysed abductively using concurrent inductive and deductive thematic content analysis. Data for the assessments at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks were available for 23, 15 and 5 participants respectively. Participants were aged 5-25 with most diagnosed with cerebral palsy (GMFCS II-IV). Consent, intervention drop-out and adherence rates were 55%, 17% and 83% respectively with no serious adverse events. Outcome measure completion rates ranged between 60% and 98%. Themes related to facilitators to participating in Frame Running were mostly identified in the personal and social domains with barriers more common in the environmental and policy domains. The study results support the existing evidence that Frame Running is a safe and acceptable community-based exercise option for those with moderate-to-severe walking impairments. Themes identified in personal, social, environmental, and policy domains can guide the implementation of community-based Frame Running participation. Our feasibility data can inform the design of future definitive studies.
Interval running with self-selected recovery: Physiology, performance, and perception
(Routledge, 2018-05-29) McEwan, Gary; Arthur, Rosie; Phillips, Shaun M.; Gibson, Neil V.; Easton, Chris
This study (1) compared the physiological responses and performance during a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session incorporating externally regulated (ER) and self-selected (SS) recovery periods and (2) examined the psychophysiological cues underpinning SS recovery durations. Following an incremental maximal exercise test to determine maximal aerobic speed (MAS), 14 recreationally active males completed 2 HIIT sessions on a non-motorised treadmill. Participants performed 12 × 30 s running intervals at a target intensity of 105% MAS interspersed with 30 s (ER) or SS recovery periods. During SS, participants were instructed to provide themselves with sufficient recovery to complete all 12 efforts at the required intensity. A semi-structured interview was undertaken following the completion of SS. Mean recovery duration was longer during SS (51 ± 15 s) compared to ER (30 ± 0 s; p < .001; d = 1.46 ± 0.46). Between-interval heart rate recovery was higher (SS: 19 ± 9 b min−1; ER: 8 ± 5 b min−1; p < .001; d = 1.43 ± 0.43) and absolute time ≥90% maximal heart rate (HRmax) was lower (SS: 335 ± 193 s; ER: 433 ± 147 s; p = .075; d = 0.52 ± 0.39) during SS compared to ER. Relative time ≥105% MAS was greater during SS (90 ± 6%) compared to ER (74 ± 20%; p < .01; d = 0.87 ± 0.40). Different sources of afferent information underpinned decision-making during SS. The extended durations of recovery during SS resulted in a reduced time ≥90% HRmax but enhanced time ≥105% MAS, compared with ER exercise. Differences in the afferent cue utilisation of participants likely explain the large levels of inter-individual variability observed.
Recruiting older men to walking football: A pilot feasibility study
(Elsevier, 2018-12-11) McEwan, Gary; Buchan, Duncan; Cowan, Daryl; Arthur, Rosie; Sanderson, Mark; Macrae, Eilidh
Context Walking football (soccer) has recently emerged as a physical activity option targeted at older males to enhance health and wellbeing. Design This pilot study aimed to examine the feasibility of recruiting and retaining males aged 50 years and over to an 8-week walking football programme in a professional football club. Intervention Participants were recruited via social media and assigned to an intervention group or a wait-list control group. The intervention group engaged in 1 h of walking football a week led by a community coach from the professional football club, followed by an optional social session in the club facility. Physiological and psychological outcome measures were obtained onsite at the football club facility (aiding compliance and retention) at baseline and following 8-weeks, from both groups. Semi-structured interviews were conducted after the 8-week programme and 1 year later, to explore motivations for engagement and the social impact. Results The opportunity to engage in football and the link to a professional football club were key attractions. All participants recruited were overweight, sedentary, exhibited blood pressures outside normal ranges, and all but two were hypertensive. Adherence to the programme was 90% over 8 weeks, and of the participants who were contacted after one year, all (n = 6) had maintained engagement in walking football. Walking football is therefore a feasible, cost-effective method of recruiting and retaining males aged 50 years and over to a physical activity programme, though attrition is to be expected.
Talent identification and development strategies in elite women’s soccer: a pan-European perspective
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2024-09-18) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath B.; Carter, Mark; Dugdale, James H.; Datson, Naomi
The question of how best to identify and develop youth soccer players has received considerable attention from the scientific community. Existing literature has, however, largely focused on male players, with comparatively little exploration of the specific approaches employed within women’s soccer. Accordingly, we sought to investigate the key factors deemed important by elite women’s soccer clubs concerning the: 1) identification of potential talent; 2) development of players within the player pathway; and 3) selection of players for the next age group or senior team. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews with 11 key representatives from seven elite women’s soccer clubs. Clubs were purposefully sampled to include the highest performing teams (38 domestic titles and 10 UEFA Women’s Champions League titles) from five European nations (Spain, France, Sweden, Germany, and Italy). Data were analysed using thematic content analysis, resulting in six higher-order themes: 1) prioritising local talent; 2) recruitment from mixed grassroots leagues; 3) creating challenging developmental environments; 4) ensuring player wellbeing; 5) patience in decision-making; and 6) facilitating the youth-to-senior transition through a top-down approach. A total of 17 lower-order themes were subsequently identified. The present study offers novel insights of key strategies deemed important by some of the most successful women’s clubs in top-performing European nations. Future research examining the efficacy of such approaches could help inform the development of evidence-based practices for nurturing the next generation of elite female players.
Training practices and perceptions of soccer officials: Insights from the Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ)
(SAGE, 2022-07-07) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Vish; Easton, Chris; Arthur, Rosie
This study sought to: 1) document the multifaceted training practices of soccer officials in relation to their role and officiating category; and 2) explore the association between the officials’ training practices and perceptions of the attributes pertinent to optimal performance. Field (FRs) and assistant (ARs) referees at officiating categories 1-3 (n=173) with the Scottish Football Association were invited to participate in this national cross-sectional study. Using the Referee Training Activity Questionnaire (RTAQ), officials reported the volume and type of training engaged in during a 2-week in-season period. Respondents’ perceptions of the skills pertinent to performance were also explored using a 7-point Likert scale (1=not at all important; 7=extremely important), with the frequency in which they trained these skills assessed using a 5-point Likert Scale (1=less than once a month; 5=more than once a week). Ninety-one responses were received, representing a 52.6% response rate. Irrespective of their role or level of professional attainment, the officials’ training was focused mostly on physical conditioning, with significantly less time apportioned to decision-making (P<0.001; ES=1.28), psychological (P<0.001; ES=1.47), and technical (P<0.001; ES=1.23) skills training. Meanwhile, although decision-making and psychological skills were rated as “very important” to “extremely important” amongst both FRs and ARs, officials purposefully trained these skills “less than once a month”. The present study provides important new insights into the training practices engaged in by soccer officials. As accurate decision-making is at the forefront of soccer officiating, enhancing the exposure of match officials to match-related decision-making during training should be considered a priority for future research.
Validity and reliability of physiological and perceptual responses during a treadmill-based Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS) [Oral Presentation]
(European College of Sport Science, 2021-09) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath; Easton, Chris; Glover, A. J.; Arthur, Rosie
Validity and reliability of the physiological and perceptual responses elicited during a novel treadmill-based Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS)
(Springer, 2023-02-12) McEwan, Gary; Unnithan, Viswanath B; Easton, Chris; Glover, Andrew J; Arthur, Rosie
Purpose: This study explored the validity and reliability of the physiological and perceptual responses elicited during a novel treadmill-based Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS). Methods: Following the collection of baseline measures and habituation procedures, eight sub-elite soccer referees completed a single trial of the SRS whereby measures of heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (V̇O2), blood lactate concentrations ([La-]b), and differential ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were obtained. Referees’ HR responses were also monitored during a series of competitive matches (5 match observations per referee). For the reliability aspect of the investigation, eight well-trained males with soccer playing experience and a comparable physiological profile were initially habituated, and thereafter completed three separate trials of the SRS during which the reliability of the selected outcome variables were ascertained. Trials were separated by 3-7 days and performed under standardised conditions. Results: No differences were evidenced between the SRS and match play in relation to measures of mean HR (P=0.444; ES=0.29), peak HR (P=0.074; ES=0.74), or HR-based training impulse (P=0.498; ES=0.25). Additionally, no systematic differences were detected between reliability trials for any of the measured outcome variables (P≥0.293), whilst good levels of reliability were observed for measures of mean HR (ICC=0.94; CV=3.1%), peak HR (ICC=0.93; CV=2.2%), HR-based training impulse (ICC=0.95; CV=10.0%), mean V̇O2 (ICC=0.95; CV=2.6%); [La-]b (ICC≥0.89; CV≤11.5%), and differential RPE (ICC≥0.94; CV≤15.1%). Conclusion: The SRS represents a valid and reliable protocol that closely replicates the physiological and decision-making demands of soccer refereeing.