Pedro Cabral Mendes

Effects of an Extrinsic Constraint on the Tennis Serve

This study analysed the extrinsic constraint of induced aerodynamic flow (IAF) on the first serve by expert tennis players with temporal organization of the movement, as well as the velocity and amplitude of the racket motion analyzed. Twelve expert right-handed tennis players voluntarily participated in this study. Each player performed 20 trials without IAF and another 20 trials for each different speed configuration of induced cross-wind: 2.4 m/s; 4.3 m/s; 5.8 m/s; and random speed. The coefficient of variation, r-pearson test and the inferential test one-way ANOVA were used to compare movement data. The results suggest spatio-temporal adjustments depending on the wind speed. Moreover, statistical differences were identified on both the temporal organization of the serve and on the rackets motion amplitude and velocity. The intra- and inter-individual variability of the motor behavior shows the uniqueness of the serve movement of each player.

Modelos explicativos do controlo motor na aprendizagem e treino de movimentos desportivos

This work aims to describe the main explanatory models of Motor Control in the learning and training of sport skills. We show the factors of convergence and divergence that underpin this area of research. It appears that the proponents of Cognitive Theories focus their attention on the individual’s ability to store and process information in memory. In contrast, the promoters of the Dynamical Systems Theory emphasize the accomplishment of tasks with greater ecological realism, seeking to explain the variables that encompass the relationship athlete-environment in coordination and control of human movement.

Práticas intergeracionais e interdisciplinares na Educação: um exemplo prático no Ensino Básico

This article aims at presenting an intergenerational and interdisciplinary experience, undertaken under the project “Interacting with the Difference”, which involved the participation of 20 students of the fifth grade and 8 elderlies. It was expected that this approach would have a positive effect on academic performance of students as well as on developing positive behaviors towards elderly condition. In this case study the evaluation of the academic performance was conducted by comparing the classifications of the disciplines in the 1st and 2nd Periods, and the qualitative assessment was supported by focus groups with students. Quantitative data were described by using the ANOVA for repeated measures and qualitative data were analysed through thematic content analyse. The research showed the benefits of these practices, which enhance motivation and learning outcomes, and foster positive attitudes and behaviors among students towards old age, enhancing citizenship based on solidarity and the community sense.

Physical Activity Benefits in Active Ageing

Ageing is a biosocial process which results in the loss of capacity over time. This decline is gradual and can significantly vary from individual to individual, according to their genetic, morphological and functional characteristics. This chapter shows that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of prevalence of chronic diseases in agieng and reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality of the elderly. For example, physically active elderly can have higher levels of functionality, improved cognitive performance and a lower risk of falling. On this basis, a physical activity programme can minimize the motor decline in the elderly, preventing the loss of functionality or inability of states, thus promoting significant health benefits. One can also state that more physically active older individuals have lower ratios of mortality, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type-2 diabetes, colon cancer and breast cancer.