Annals of “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati. Fascicle XV, Physical Education and Sport Management

Cuprins

*** *** — 2026-01-20

Cuprins

The IMPACT OF ECOLOGICAL CONDITIONALITY ON PHYSICAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES

I. ARSENE — 2026-01-20

This article investigates the impact of ecological conditionality on the conduct of physical sports activities, in a context increasingly marked by concerns related to climate change and sustainability. By introducing the concept of "ecological conditionality," the authors highlight the need to integrate ecological criteria into all forms of sports activity, from infrastructure to training methods. The research emphasizes that adapting sports facilities to ecological standards (through the use of renewable energy sources, material recycling, and efficient resource management) can contribute not only to environmental protection but also to increasing the attractiveness and accessibility of physical activities among the population. Furthermore, the article analyzes how these ecological practices influence the motivation of athletes, both amateur and professional. It underlines the fact that athletes who train in sustainable environments experience higher levels of satisfaction, a deeper connection with nature, and a greater sense of social responsibility. The relationship between sustainability and sports performance is also discussed, concluding that implementing ecological principles in sports can lead to the optimization of athletes’ physical and mental resources.
In conclusion, the study proposes practical recommendations for developing ecological infrastructure and creating educational policies that promote ecological values among sports practitioners. The research results highlight that integrating ecology into the field of physical activities is essential for a sustainable and responsible sporting future.

MIGRATION OF SPORTS-RELATED PROFESSIONAL WORKFORCE. ANALYSING THE CAUSES OF THE PHENOMENON

S. BRATU — 2026-01-20

Migration has been a multidimensional phenomenon, strongly impacting numerous fields of activity in the structure of societies. It is a challenge for the governments of all states, but also a topic to be addressed by specialists of various areas of expertise. This topic must be constantly approached and updated, particularly nowadays when the dynamics of modern societies and the ever–changing labour market generate new economic and social realities. The research endeavours conducted over time have
revealed various aspects: from the causes and types of migration, the pull factors or, on the contrary, push factors, to the economic and social effects of migration. Moreover, brain drain, a relevant concern of the governments of many states, has led to numerous debates and opposing perspectives among researchers and stakeholders in various countries. We witness brain drain in sports area as well, where this phenomenon displays certain particularities which will be further addressed in this research.
The core objective of this paper is to identify the causes and effects of the migration of sports–related professionals as well as the potential steps to create a more appealing domestic work environment in order to foster workforce retention. There are also some ancillary objectives correlated with the aforementioned one, such as introducing the fundamental elements of certain representative theories belonging to various paradigms on migration and brain drain, as well as demonstrating the need to
rethink the meaning of brain drain collocation in that it must be updated or even replaced with other collocations. Research methodology derives precisely from the paper objectives: in order to meet the objectives set, we refer to qualitative research to interpret the data collected from specialist literature reviews and from some semi-structured interviews with Romanian coaches working abroad. To sum up, studying migration must be a constant concern for all governments and should help strengthen the public development strategies without infringing upon the individual rights and freedoms set forth by international treaties.

PSYCHO-PEDAGOGY OF GAME IN SWIMMING TEACHING AT PRESCHOOL AGE

D.G. BURAC — 2026-01-20

The game is the physical and mental activity that contributes most to the formation and development of the child's personality, especially at pre-school age. The variety and creativity of the game reflect the mental, emotional and health status of the child. In terms of swimming instructional activity, the implementation of the game in learning to swim is beneficial at all developmental stages of preschoolers, in varying weights depending on the developmental stage of the children. The movement games are grouped in the preschool activity on two levels: the 3-5 years level and the 5-7 years level. The research aims to investigate how two groups of children aged 3-5 years and 5-7 years learn to swim by adapting traditional didactic movement games to aquatic games, aiming to assimilate knowledge, skills and motor skills at the two levels of development of the pre-schoolers.
The water games can be used for beginners, initiated, advanced or all these levels, as well as for large groups, even groups, 2 or more children. Water has about 12 times the resistance of air, making every movement in water a real exercise. On top of that, twater provides both buoyancy and support for the body.

PHYSICAL TRAINING IN THE MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS: NARRATIVE REVIEW

N. Carapcevschii (CIPILENCU) — 2026-01-20

Physical training represents a fundamental component of professional development within the structures of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), contributing to operational efficiency, health protection, and the psychological resilience of personnel with special status. The aim of this narrative review is to examine the national regulatory framework of the Republic of Moldova and align it with international perspectives on occupational physical fitness. The methodology is based on extensive documentary analysis, including scientific literature, normative acts and comparative studies. The results highlight the natural decline of physical capacity in the absence of continuous monitoring, the
significant influence of institutional policies, and the effectiveness of modern models, including abilitybased
training frameworks. The conclusions emphasize the need for differentiated standards, annual
assessments, and the integration of cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular components into the physical
training system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The EVOLUTION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY IN OPTIMIZING ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE IN SPRINT EVENTS - AN INVESTIGATIVE APPROACH

S. CASANDRA — 2026-01-20

Technological progress has significantly influenced the training and performance of athletes in sprint events, providing new tools for analysing and optimizing training. Modern methods of monitoring physiological and biomechanical parameters allow for a more precise evaluation of individual capacities and athletic progress. The purpose of this research is to investigate athletes' perceptions of the evolution of modern technology in optimizing athletic performance in sprint events and to analyse how modern technologies are perceived and used in sprint training. Research objectives: evaluating the level of knowledge and use of modern technologies among performance athletes.; analysing athletes' perception of the efficiency of modern technologies in improving performance in sprint events; identifying areas in which athletes believe technology can be improved to enhance performance in sprint training; examining the factors that influence the adoption and integration of modern technologies in sprint sports training. Research hypothesis: it is assumed that athletes who use modern technologies in their training believe that these technologies have a significant impact on their performance in sprint events, and that a more frequent integration of these technologies could contribute to optimizing athletic preparation.

SIGNIFICANT CORRELATIONS IN CROSS-BORDER EDUCATION: ROMANIA – REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

D. DORGAN — 2026-01-21

This study explores the significant correlations established through cross-border education between
Romania and the Republic of Moldova, focusing specifically on the collaboration in the field of physical
education and sports. The research analyzes institutional cooperation between the Institute of Physical
Education and Sports of the State University of Moldova (USM) and “Dunărea de Jos” University of
Galați. These partnerships exemplify how cross-border educational initiatives contribute to academic
excellence, research development, and the professional growth of students and teaching staff.
The study applies both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness
of joint educational programs, academic mobility, and bilateral curricular development. Results show
that students involved in cross-border programs benefit from broadened perspectives, exposure to
modern pedagogical models, and access to improved educational resources. Teachers and researchers
also gain valuable insights through knowledge exchange, collaborative projects, and shared access to
innovation platforms.
Furthermore, the research identifies how these academic ties promote the harmonization of study
programs in accordance with European standards, reinforcing the regional integration of higher
education systems. Such collaborations foster intercultural dialogue, enhance language competencies,
and contribute to the development of a common educational space that supports sustainable growth
and European cohesion.
The findings emphasize the need to expand these partnerships through increased institutional support,
joint applied research programs, and long-term strategic planning. Cross-border education is not only
a means of improving academic performance but also a key driver in promoting regional solidarity and
professional competitiveness in the domain of physical education and sports.

The INFLUENCE OF STRESS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF ADOLESCENT ATHLETES IN OLYMPIC MARTIAL ARTS:

I-A. DUMBRAVU — 2026-01-21

Stress is a major psychological factor that influences athletes' performance, especially in the context of combat sports. This systematic review, conducted according to the PRISMA method, investigates the relationship between stress and performance in adolescent athletes (14–18 years old) practicing
Olympic martial arts, based on studies published between 2010 and 2025. The results show that
excessive anticipatory stress (measured through salivary cortisol or psychometric questionnaires) is
associated with a decrease in competitive performance, while an optimal level of stress during
confrontation can have a positive mobilizing effect. The ability to manage stress, supported by
psychological preparation, proves essential for optimizing sports performance in this age group.

FITNESS IN THE YOUNG AND ADULT POPULATION; DESIRE AND NECESSITY

D. GĂLAN — 2026-01-21

In a world dominated by the benefits of modern achievements, reflected in increased comfort and
increasingly diverse nutrition — mostly composed of processed products — alongside artificial
intelligence that reduces and/or limits the practice of physical exercise to the level of just a click,
modern individuals face harmful factors affecting their psycho-physical health. These materialize
through obesity — with all its consequences — and especially the decline of psycho-motor skills and,
quite often, moral-volitional qualities, which tend to become merely formal aspects.
In these conditions, we believe that through our topic we will spark interest in a field that is taking root in our era: FITNESS. Through the quality of our reflections and the content of our topic, we hope to reposition the desire and necessity of engaging in physical activity within the natural framework of
human existence.

SPECTATOR ATTENDANCE AT THE 2025 IHF WOMEN'S WORLD HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIP:

C. GHEORGHE — 2026-01-21

The International Handball Federation (IHF) Women's World Handball Championship represents the
premier international competition for women's handball. Understanding attendance patterns provides
insights into the sport's commercial viability and growth trajectory. To quantify and analyze spectator
attendance at the 2025 IHF Women's World Handball Championship, we compare the figures with
historical data, and identify factors contributing to attendance patterns. This study employs descriptive statistics and comparative analysis of attendance data from the 2025 championship
(Germany/Netherlands, November 26–December 14, 2025) and previous editions (2015–2023). Data
sources include official IHF reports, venue capacity information, and tournament documentation.
Statistical measures include total attendance, per-match averages, venue utilisation rates, and yearover- year growth percentages. The 2025 championship recorded 354,029 spectators across 108
matches at five venues (average: 3,278 spectators/match), representing a 2.8% increase over the 2023 record of 344,399 spectators (average: 3,075 spectators/match). Venue capacities ranged from 5,400 to 12,000. The championship demonstrated sustained growth in women's handball attendance over the 2015-2025 period. The 2025 championship achieved record-breaking attendance, driven by strategic dual-host selection, optimised venue selection, effective marketing, and improved competitive balance.
These findings suggest continued growth potential for women's handball as a commercially viable
spectator sport.

IMPACT OF EXERCISE ON GERIATRIC NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE MANAGEMENT

M. GRECU — 2026-01-21

In recent years, an increased rate of neurodegenerative diseases (especially Alzheimer’s disease, mild
cognitive disorders, Parkinson’s disease and post cerebrovascular accident sequelae) has been noticed globally among people older than 60 years old. In this context, an increasing awareness of nonpharmacological interventions that could influence the symptoms, the role and the life quality of these patients is required. Various types of physical exercise (aerobic exercise, endurance training, combined exercises, dance therapy, BFKTR (Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation) and recuperation have been studied for their neuroprotective, neuroplastic and functional potential. The aim of this review is to put forward a synthesis from literature, to compare representative studies, to emphasize the evidence and to advance practical recommendations for physical exercise integration in the therapeutic plan of neurodegenerative disease patients.

EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TECHNOLOGICAL SPORTS PRODUCT ADDICTION AND BODY APPRECIATION IN ATHLETES

M. KUSAN — 2026-01-21

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between technological sports product appreciation and body appreciation among athletes. The research was conducted using a descriptive relational survey model. The population consists of athletes, while the sample comprises 245 actively participating athletes selected through a random sampling method. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Technological Sports Product Addiction Scale, and the Body Appreciation Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0. Variables such as gender, artificial intelligence application usage, and type of sport were examined using t-test, ANOVA, Tukey, and Pearson correlation tests. The findings revealed that addiction levels to technological sports products were significantly higher among male athletes and those using AI applications, whereas body appreciation was notably higher among athletes engaged in individual sports. No significant differences were found based on age or income level. The study highlights the impact of technology use on athletes' psychology and body perception and suggests the development of strategies to promote the conscious and balanced use of digital tools in sports.

The TACTICAL PLAN - ANOTHER PRE-GAME SWOT APPROACH IN SOCCER PLAY

G. M. MANOLACHE — 2026-01-21

Soccer coaches, fitness professionals, and athletic trainers have long believed and taught that sports
would keep them out of the doctor’s office. Are they right? Researchers recently began to examine how muscles respond to stretching and how this relates to exercise performance and injury risk. Many studies found that reaction time, movement time, and balance were reduced after 20 minutes of standard stretching before exercise. At the elite level, even the smallest reductions in these important variables can have a significant effect on soccer players; therefore, stretching before training is vital.
Consequently, many athletes experience feelings of guilt and regret, perceiving a need for more frequent stretching, particularly due to variations in muscle development at the age of 16. These findings suggest that it may be time to update the old rules about stretching. Moreover, this article emphasises that a suitable warm-up program resolves the problem when an appropriate muscle-stretching workout is performed, thereby strengthening muscle flexibility.

ASSESSMENT METHODS FOR STATIC FLEXIBILITY USING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES:

M. COJOCARU — 2026-01-21

Background: Static flexibility assessment is fundamental for musculoskeletal health evaluation.
Traditional methods present limitations in precision and standardization. The Mobee Med digital
goniometry system offers innovative solutions for comprehensive joint mobility evaluation.
Objective: To evaluate the Mobee Med system for assessing static flexibility of upper extremity joints,
establishing standardized protocols and reference values.
Methods: Three healthy adults underwent comprehensive flexibility assessment using Mobee Med
(TGA-registered), including 142 mobility tests with the neutral-zero method. Evaluations covered
scapulohumeral, elbow, and wrist joints bilaterally. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics
and one-sample t-tests comparing measured values against reference standards.
Results: Significant deficits were identified: shoulder flexion 152.67°±3.21 left, 154.67°±3.06 right
(reference: 160°); extension 36.67°±4.73 left, 41.33°±3.51 right (reference: 50°); external rotation
80°±3.46 left, 80.67°±5.03 right (reference: 90°). Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were
found for left shoulder extension, external rotation, internal rotation, frontal abduction, and right wrist flexion.
Conclusions: Mobee Med provides precise, objective, and standardized flexibility assessment superior to traditional goniometry. Digital measurement eliminates observer bias, enables real-time
visualization, and facilitates longitudinal monitoring, representing a significant advancement for
clinical practice and sports science.

COMPREHENSIVE JOINT FLEXIBILITY ASSESSMENT IN LOWER EXTREMITIES AND SPINAL COLUMN:

C. MEREUȚĂ — 2026-01-21

Background: Spinal column and lower extremity flexibility are critical components of functional
movement, athletic performance, and injury prevention. Digital goniometry offers objective, precise
assessment capabilities superior to traditional measurement methods.
Objective: To comprehensively evaluate static flexibility of the cervical spine, thoracolumbar spine,
coxofemoral joint, knee, and ankle using the Mobee Med digital goniometry system, establishing
normative data and identifying clinical flexibility patterns.
Methods: Three healthy adult subjects underwent systematic flexibility assessment using Mobee Med (TGA-registered) with 142 standardized mobility tests. Evaluations included: cervical spine
(flexion/extension, lateral bending, rotation), thoracolumbar spine (flexion/extension, lateral bending, rotation), coxofemoral joint (flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, rotations), knee
(flexion/extension), and ankle (dorsiflexion/plantarflexion, eversion/inversion). Statistical analysis
utilized descriptive statistics and one-sample t-tests comparing measured values against reference
standards (α=0.05).
Results: Significant deficits were identified across multiple regions. Cervical spine: flexion 70.67°±3.06
(reference 80°, p=0.034), left rotation 77.67°±3.51 (reference 85°, p=0.026). Thoracolumbar spine:
extension 15.00°±3.61 (reference 25°, p=0.041). Coxofemoral joint: left hip flexion 118.33°±2.52
(reference 125°, p=0.004), right abduction 55.33°±3.51 (reference 70°, p=0.010). Knee: left flexion
120.33°±5.51 (reference 135°, p=0.044). Ankle: dorsiflexion 15.00°±2.00 left, 14.33°±2.52 right
(reference 20°); plantarflexion 42.67°±7.77 left, 43.33°±4.04 right (reference 55°). Statistical analysis
revealed flexibility restrictions averaging 10-40% below reference values, with larger deficits in
extension movements and rotational patterns.
Conclusions: Digital goniometry reveals systematic flexibility deficits in spinal and lower extremity
joints even in healthy populations. Cervical and thoracolumbar extension limitations (26.67-66.67%
deficits) reflect modern postural dysfunction from prolonged sitting and forward head positioning.
Coxofemoral restrictions in flexion (5.63%), abduction (26.51%), and rotations (20-27%) indicate hip musculature tightness predisposing to low back pain and lower extremity pathology. Knee flexion
deficits (10.89-12.19%) and ankle mobility restrictions (25-28.90%) compromise functional movement
patterns essential for daily activities and athletic performance. The Mobee Med system provides precise, standardized assessment enabling early intervention before clinical symptom manifestation.

The HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE FROM PRIMITIVE SOCIETIES TO THE MODERN ERA

D. PASCARI — 2026-01-21

This article explores the historical evolution of physical exercise, tracing its transformation from
primitive survival activities to the structured and scientifically grounded training methods of the modern era. Physical activity has always been an essential component of human life, initially linked to basic survival tasks such as hunting, gathering, and self-defense in primitive societies. These movements, though unstructured, laid the foundation for what would later evolve into organized physical education.
As societies progressed, physical exercise began to acquire social, cultural, and even spiritual
significance. In ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China, Greece, and Rome, physical training was
associated with military preparation, aesthetic ideals, and philosophical values. The Greeks, in
particular, emphasized the harmony between body and mind, establishing physical education as a key part of their educational systems.
During the Middle Ages, physical activity was often linked to combat training and chivalry, especially
among the nobility. However, it was in the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods that physical
exercise regained importance, inspired by the rediscovery of classical ideals and the rise of scientific
thought. In the 19th and 20th centuries, with the development of modern pedagogy, sports institutions, and medical knowledge, physical education became formalized in school curricula and professional training programs.
The article also highlights how perspectives on health, fitness, and physical well-being have evolved,
shifting from purely utilitarian functions to a broader understanding of physical activity as a vital
component of personal development and public health. Today, exercise is recognized not only for its
physiological benefits but also for its psychological, educational, and social roles in building a healthy
society.

SPORTS - THERAPEUTIC TOOL IN NEUROPSYCHIC REHABILITATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

R.G. ȘTEFĂNIȚĂ — 2026-01-21

Therapeutic sport represents a multidimensional intervention strategy for individuals with disabilities, generating measurable benefits across neuropsychological, motor, cognitive, and emotional domains.
This review examines current evidence on sport-based therapeutic programs, with a specific focus on
individuals with Down syndrome, who frequently present hypotonia, motor coordination difficulties,
reduced cognitive processing speed, and heightened vulnerability to sedentary behaviours. Adapted
physical activities — ranging from structured exercise programs to coordination training, balance
tasks, and motor play — promote neuroplasticity, functional autonomy, and psychosocial adaptation.
Additionally, recent studies highlight the contribution of digital tools, including ICT-based feedback,
virtual reality, and interactive platforms, which enhance engagement and support individualized
progression. Findings from the reviewed literature indicate that sport-centred interventions improve
gross and fine motor skills, emotional regulation, social participation, and overall quality of life in
individuals with Down syndrome. Improvements are consistently associated with better executive
functioning, increased physical fitness, and reduced anxiety or withdrawal behaviours. Beyond
therapeutic outcomes, sport emerges as a facilitator of inclusion, offering meaningful opportunities for participation in community life. Overall, the review underscores the essential role of structured and personalised physical activity in neuropsychological rehabilitation, supporting the need for broader implementation of adapted sport programs in clinical, educational, and community settings.

GROSS MOTOR COORDINATION IN ADOLESCENTS: AN INTERSPORT ANALYSIS USING THE KÖRPERKOORDINATIONS TEST FÜR KINDER

Halit ȘAR — 2026-01-21

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the gross motor skills of adolescent athletes engaged in football, rowing, and wrestling.
Methods: A total of 51 adolescent athletes aged 8–14 years (age: 11.82 years, height: 151.86 cm,
weight: 48.90 kg, and body mass index (BMI): 20.65 kg/m²) voluntarily participated in the study. The
Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder (KTK) was used to assess the participants’ gross motor skills.
Results: The findings showed that rowing athletes scored significantly higher than wrestlers in total
KTK scores (KTK total), as well as in the Walking Backwards (WB) and Jumping Sideways (JS) subtests
(p<0.05). Football players were found to have higher JS and WB test scores compared to wrestlers
(p<0.05). Additionally, based on the Hopping for Height (HH) test scores, football players scored
significantly higher than rowers, while rowers scored significantly higher than football players in the
WB test (p<0.05). On the other hand, among the gross motor tests administered, no significant
differences were found between the sports branches only in the Moving Sideways (MS) test scores
(p>0.05).
Conclusions: These results indicate that different sports branches develop balance and coordination
components at varying levels, underscoring the importance for coaches to design supportive training programs that target weaker motor skills while preserving branch-specific strengths. Accordingly, educators and coaches should enrich training programs — particularly with complementary exercises involving balance, jumping, and coordination — by taking inter-branch differences into account to better support athletes’ motor development.

EFFECTS OF SPINNING PROGRAMS ON PSYCHOMOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

A. SCHEULEAC — 2026-01-21

The adolescent period represents a critical stage in human development, marked by profound
biological, psychological, and social transformations. In this context, planned physical activity,
adapted to age level, plays a fundamental role in supporting maturation processes both at the
neuromuscular level and in cognitive and emotional structures. The research objectives aim not only
to evaluate the immediate changes produced by the spinning intervention but also to formulate practical recommendations for incorporating this method into school programs. The general hypothesis of the study is that students’ participation in spinning training will lead to significant improvements in all dimensions of psychomotor skills compared to a control group. The study included a total of 50 students, selected from five representative high schools in Suceava County: “Spiru Haret” Theoretical High School, Economic College, Pedagogical College, Food Industry High School, and “Petru Rareș” National College. Thus, motor coordination and static balance showed notable improvements, confirming that pedaling with variable rhythms and posture changes on the bike (sitting/standing in the pedals) stimulate neuromotor control mechanisms and proprioception. Additionally, lower-limb explosive strength developed significantly as a result of pedaling with increased resistance and intervaltype training, which replicated demands similar to plyometric exercises. At the physiological level, both aerobic endurance (measured by the 6-minute test) and anaerobic capacity (evaluated by the Wingate test) showed clear progress. The preliminary results support the general hypothesis that a structured spinning program can contribute to the multidimensional development of high school students’ psychomotor potential.