Physiological and Psychological Profiles

Primary outcomes

1. Maximal oxygen consumption test:

   Time frame: baseline

   subjects will complete symptom limited treadmill exercise tests using a modification of Balkes protocol, which has been previously used among individuals with obesity. Participants will be connected to a gas analyzing metabolic cart (mouthpiece) for the determination of oxygen uptake, ventilated carbon dioxide, lung volumes, and heart rate through a gas analysis system using Cortex Metalyzer 3B (Cortex Biophysik GmbH, Leipzig, Germany) and HR monitor (Polar H7, Kempele, Finland).The tests will be performed on a computerized treadmill allowing programmed adjustment of both speed and inclination components of the work rate. The gas exchange system measured the oxygen consumption (VO2) and carbon dioxide production (VCO2) throughout the test.

2. Wingate test

   Time frame: baseline

   The Wingate test will be performed on a cycle ergometer (Ergomedic 828E, Monark, Sweden). Participants will perform a 30-second all-out sprint against a resistance equivalent to 7.5% of their body weight. The test measures the peak power (in watts), average power, and rate of fatigue. These metrics provide insights into the anaerobic performance capabilities of athletes.

3. Isokinetic muscle strength

   Time frame: baseline

   testing will be conducted using an isokinetic dynamometer (Humac Norm Isokinetic Software System-USA. The participants will perform knee flexion and extension at angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s. The peak torque (Nm) will be recorded for each movement, which indicates the maximum strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings. Bilateral comparisons will be performed to assess muscle imbalances, which are potential injury risk factors. Quadriceps and hamstring muscles of the dominant leg will be also examined. The dominant lower extremity was defined as the preferred leg for kicking the ball. The researcher will use a moderate pace and load (50-100 W), followed by 10 min of dynamic stretching concentrating on the lower limbs to prepare every participant for the assessment of leg torque.

4. The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES)

   Time frame: baseline

   The GSES is a self-report and unidimensional measure consisting of 10 items (e.g., "I can always manage to solve difficult problems if I try hard enough"). The total score ranges from 10 to 40, with higher scores indicating stronger belief that one's actions are responsible for successful outcomes.

5. Brief Resilience Scale (BRS)

   Time frame: baseline

   Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) is a self-rated assessment developed to quantify people's ability to bounce back and cope in accordance to health-related stressors.The overarch objective of this test was to provide the ability to thrive in the face of adversity. In other words, those who are more resilient are better able to cope with life challenges. The BRS was first developed by Smith et al.. and was used in this study. It comprises a six-item scale, with total possible points ranging from to 6-30. Each item has possible responses ranging from1= strongly disagree, 2= disagree, 3= neutral, 4= agree, and 5= Strongly Agree. The validity and reliability for this scale has been examined, giving excellent psychometric properties that allows for efficient measurement of resilience.