Robert Podstawski
26867971000
Publications - 11
An Assessment of Motor Skills in Infants at Risk of Atypical Psychomotor Development Using the Vojta Method
Publication Name: Children
Publication Date: 2025-08-01
Volume: 12
Issue: 8
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Background: Some neonates are assessed for the risk of atypical psychomotor development at birth and are referred for reflex locomotion therapy using the Vojta method. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between spontaneous motor activity (SMA), ideal movement patterns (IMPs), central coordination disorders (CCDs), vital signs at birth, involuntary reflexes, and postural asymmetry in infants. Methods: This study involved 90 female and 107 male subjects in the age interval of 1–16 months (4.15 ± 2.18). Their psychomotor development was assessed using the Vojta method. Age-appropriate involuntary reflexes were evaluated, and both parameters were correlated with perinatal risk factors. Results: Males scored significantly higher than females (difference of −0.7, p = 0.022) in the SMA test. In both genders, SMA (p < 0.001 in both genders) and IMP scores improved significantly with age. In male infants, higher CCD scores were associated with significantly lower SMA and IMP scores (p = 0.017 and p < 0.001, respectively). Significantly higher CCD scores were noted in female subjects with the Moro reflex and postural asymmetry (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively). In males, the Moro reflex was significantly correlated with the Vojta reaction (p = 0.012) and the Collis vertical suspension reflex (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Vital signs at birth, including birth weight, Apgar score, and type of delivery, can predict motor development disorders but do not clearly differentiate infants that require neurodevelopmental therapy.
Open Access: Yes
A Pilot Study of the Effect of Locomotor and Mechanical Loads on Elite Rowers During Competition Days
Publication Name: Sports
Publication Date: 2025-08-01
Volume: 13
Issue: 8
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
(1) Background: Fatigue impacts neuromuscular performance, especially in endurance sports like rowing. The aim is to explore how continuous workload affects explosiveness and fatigue progression. This study examines acute fatigue during repeated race events by assessing vertical jump height, force output, and subjective fatigue over three consecutive days at the 2024 Hungarian National Rowing Championships. (2) Methods: Nine rowers (five women, four men; mean age 20.17 ± 1.73 years) competed in multiple 2000 m races over three days. Lower limb explosiveness was measured via countermovement jump (CMJ) using a Kistler force plate, pre- and post-race. Heart rate data were recorded with Polar Team Pro®. Subjective fatigue was assessed using the ‘Daily Wellness Questionnaire’. (3) Results: We found a significant difference in the pattern of the medians of the force exerted by males during the jump between the results of the Thursday preliminaries (ThuQMe = 13.3) and the second final (ThuF2Me = −75.5). Women showed no notable changes. (4) Conclusion: Repeated high-intensity races induce neuromuscular fatigue in men, reflected in reduced explosiveness and increased subjective fatigue. Future research should incorporate biochemical markers to deepen the understanding of fatigue mechanisms.
Open Access: Yes
Analysis of the Laboratory and In-Competition Characteristics of Adolescent Motocross (MX) Riders: An In Situ Case Study
Publication Name: Applied Sciences Switzerland
Publication Date: 2024-09-01
Volume: 14
Issue: 18
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Motocross is one of the most popular high-speed motorcycle races, which takes place on a naturally closed track with significant challenges. This study aimed to characterize anthropometric, circulatory, and lower and upper limb muscle properties based on laboratory and race-recorded characteristics. Male competitors (n = 3) aged 14 years (MX) were included in the study. All three boys have national and international experience. Metabolic characteristics (ventilation, oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production) and heart rate (HR) were measured in the laboratory while HR and speed were measured while racing. No significant difference was found between the three competitors in terms of HR during the race. In terms of number of sprints (No. sprint) and maximum speed (Speedmax), we found the most successful runner (highest finisher) to have the most sprints and maximum speed. Comparing the metabolic characteristics, it was found that racing was between the respiratory breakpoint (VT1 ) and the respiratory compensation point (RCP), but, in several cases, crossed the anaerobic threshold. While motocross riders are exposed to extreme conditions and high physical demands, in motorsport, victories depend not only on the athlete’s physical abilities but also on several factors such as driving technique, mental effort, equipment efficiency and resistance, race strategy, and team competence.
Open Access: Yes
DOI: 10.3390/app14188232
Anthropometric and Physiological Characteristics of Young Elite Hungarian Motocross Riders in Motocross Competitions
Publication Name: Physical Activity Review
Publication Date: 2024-01-01
Volume: 12
Issue: 1
Page Range: 47-58
Description:
Background: Motocross riders’ performance is highly dependent on the characteristics of the motorcycles and the skills of the riders, and the actual environmental conditions. This study aims to describe the differences in anthropometric and physiological characteristics between internationally ranked adolescent males and nationally ranked motorcross (MX) peer competitors; Methods: Data obtained from young riders (n=14) were divided into internationally ranked G1 (n=5) and - nationally ranked G2 (n=9) young MX riders. We determined body composition and cardiorespiratory variables, and measured heart rate and movement-related data with Polar Team Pro system during the race; (3) Results: Blood lactate concentrations were evaluated before and after the race session. MX riders with an international ranking performed significantly better during both races (R1 and R2 ), which manifested itself in significantly shorter times per lap on average (difference for R1=14.8 s and for R2 =16.7 s, respectively, p=0.017), more laps completed (G1 vs G2 approx.: 11.2: 9.9 laps for R1 and R2 , p=0.019) and points scored (difference: R1 =9.3 pts and R2 =9.0 pts, p=0.014). There were no statistically significant differences in age between the two compared groups (p=0.559) and other anthropometric and physiological characteristics tested, with an exception of muscle mass percent (p<0.001); Conclusions: Current results showed that motocross probably places a heavy burden on riders, who need to be fit enough to maintain their position in the field.
Open Access: Yes
Physical activity and screen time among hungarian high school students during the COVID-19 pandemic caused distance education period
Publication Name: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Publication Date: 2021-12-01
Volume: 18
Issue: 24
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Background: High school education took place in the form of distance learning during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic worldwide, including Hungary. Decreased physical activity and an increase in inactive behaviours may lead to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Aim: Our study targeted changes in physical activity (aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening) and screen time in adolescents and young adults during the pandemic. Methods: High school students were interviewed in 66 public schools in 37 Hungarian cities (N = 2508). Survey items on physical activity and screen time were derived from the WHO Health Behaviour of School-aged Children Survey and the Centers for Disease Control Youth Risk Behavior Survey. A 2 × 2 factorial ANCOVA was used to test the effects of gender (male vs. female) and/or age (adolescents vs. young adults) on the reported changes in physical activity and screen time before and during lockdown (covariate: BMI Z-score). Results: The majority of the cohort indicated less physical activity. Aerobic and muscle-strengthening type of exercises significantly decreased, and screen time increased during distance education. Male individuals showed a higher decrease in the level of aerobic exercise, and young adults reported a higher increase in the time spent in front of the screen.
Open Access: Yes
Quantifying the relationship between physical performance and mental wellbeing in older adults: a field study
Publication Name: Frontiers in Aging
Publication Date: 2025-01-01
Volume: 6
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Introduction: Although the relationship between functionality, as reflected in physical performance (PHP), and mental health in older adults has been researched, its strength remains unclear. Methods: This field study aimed to determine the strength of this relationship in adults aged 60 and above using seven PHP indices and six psychological measures. We individually tested 114 older adults. Objective measures included six PHP indices consisting of the Senior Test and handgrip strength. Subjective measures included resilience, wellbeing, happiness, perceived stress, hopelessness, and life satisfaction. Results: Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed two latent constructs: PHP and mental wellbeing (MWB): robust fit (MLR): X2 (75) = 136.28, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.967; TLI = 0.960; RMSEA = 0.066 (90% CI [0.000, 0.128]); SRMR = 0.088. The latent partial correlation between PHP and MWB (adjusted for Age) was φ = 0.46, indicating ∼21% shared variance. The correlation between the two latent factors was moderate (r = 0.46), suggesting that other unassessed factors might account for the relationship. Discussion: Based on objective PHP and subjective MWB measures, these results suggest a modest connection, with the two latent constructs sharing ∼1/5 of their variances. Consequently, further research is needed to identify other factors affecting the studied relationship in older adults. These cross-sectional findings, suggesting a moderate association, should be interpreted with caution. Still, they support recommending physical activity as one component of broader, multi-domain strategies to support the wellbeing of older adults.
Open Access: Yes
The role of yoga in enhancing spiritual and psychological health: Evidence from a large cross-sectional study
Publication Name: Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Publication Date: 2026-05-01
Volume: 97
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Background Research has rarely explored yoga’s link to spirituality, and none have examined spiritual well-being via Fisher’s four-domain model. Comparative studies with active control groups are also lacking. Objective This study examines the relationships between spirituality, subjective well-being (SWB), and mental health indicators (depression, anxiety, and stress) among yoga practitioners, physically active individuals, and inactive controls. Methods A total of 1.167 Hungarian adults (79 % females), mean age 34.52 years (SD ± 14.97), completed an online survey assessing spiritual health attitudes and behaviors, SWB, and mental health symptoms, along with the frequency of physical activity. Results Multivariate analyses showed significant group differences (Wilks’ Λ =.811, F(26, 2304) = 9.77, p < .001, partial η² = .099) across the combined dependent variables. Yoga practitioners reported significantly (p < .001) higher well-being and spirituality, and lower depression, anxiety, and distress than both regular exercisers and inactive participants. Regular exercisers also demonstrated more favorable psychological outcomes than inactive individuals, though to a lesser extent than yoga practitioners. Weekly physical activity frequency was positively associated with well-being and negatively associated with mental health symptoms across groups. Correlation patterns revealed several spirituality-related variables that were uniquely and more strongly associated (p < .001 to p < .023) with health indicators in the yoga group. Conclusions These findings support the mental health benefits of regular physical activity and emphasize yoga's distinct contribution to spiritual well-being. The results highlight the integrative value of embodied spiritual practices, such as yoga, in promoting psychological resilience and holistic well-being.
Open Access: Yes
Demographic Predictors Associated With Elevated Screen Use in Preschoolers: A Multinational Cross-Sectional Study Based on Parents' Reports
Publication Name: Child and Family Social Work
Publication Date: 2026-01-01
Volume: Unknown
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
The widespread use of smartphones and tablets has greatly increased screen exposure among preschoolers. Since early childhood is crucial for cognitive, behavioural and social development, excessive screen time represents a major public health concern. Identifying factors influencing young children's screen use is vital for creating effective family guidance and health policies. Using convenience sampling, this study collected data from 633 parents across 31 countries to examine how family composition, parental and child characteristics affect the screen time of preschoolers (aged 1–5 years). The model, based on Ordinary Least Squares regression, explained 42% of the variance in children's screen time. Parental device-giving frequency emerged as the strongest predictor, with more frequent giving linked to greater exposure. Screen time also increased with child age and the number of children in the family. Children supervised by mothers had significantly less screen time than those supervised by fathers. Parental age, number of adults in the home, child's sex and temperament were not significant predictors. These findings highlight the significant impact of parental behaviour and household dynamics on preschoolers' screen habits. Interventions should directly target these factors, and family screen time guidelines must evolve to reflect the modern technology landscape, promoting balanced and healthy use.
Open Access: Yes
DOI: 10.1111/cfs.70175
Visual assessment of performance-related stimulus expectancy and its implications for placebo response dilution
Publication Name: Acta Psychologica
Publication Date: 2026-05-01
Volume: 265
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Expectancy effects are crucial determinants of placebo responses; however, neglecting differences in agent-specific beliefs may lead to an underestimation of response effects. This study had two main goals: (1) to theoretically explore how individual differences in expectations about agents influence response outcomes, and (2) to create a visual tool for assessing stimulus-specific expectancies. The sample included 435 adults (58.5% female) who answered demographic questions and completed six image-based items (red pill, white powder, green drink, chocolate bar, injection syringe, and electrical stimulation device), each designed to assess beliefs about the potential of these agents to boost performance. Expectancy assessments focused on anticipated physical and mental performance effects rather than on clinical or therapeutic outcomes. Logistic modeling illustrated that combining high- and low-expectancy individuals can attenuate apparent group-level expectancy effects, highlighting a potential measurement and inference concern in placebo research. Participants who were non-superstitious and non-religious reported significantly lower stimulus expectancy than others. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed the unidimensional structure of the Stimulus Expectancy Assessment Tool (SEAT), showing excellent fit (CFI = 0.974, TLI = 0.952, RMSEA = 0.086, SRMR = 0.032) and good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.84). The latent factor accounted for an average of 48% of the variance in expectations, ranging from 21% to 66% across the six indicators. These results suggest that placebo effects may be underestimated when variability in expectancy is ignored. The SEAT offers a flexible, image-based method for identifying stimulus-specific expectancy profiles.
Open Access: Yes
The long-term impact of COVID-19 on the physical activity, motor fitness, and maximum heart rate values of female university students
Publication Name: Biomedical Human Kinetics
Publication Date: 2026-01-01
Volume: 18
Issue: 1
Page Range: 12-23
Description:
Aim: This study examined the relationship between COVID-19 and the maximum heart rate (HRmax ) achieved by female university students during maximal physical effort. It also analyzed how participants’ physical activity (PA) levels and anthropometric and physiological characteristics were related to HRmax 10 months after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that COVID-19 was no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Materials and methods: Eighty-two female university students aged 19.0–28.0 years (21.23 ± 1.57) were assigned to three groups: G1 – 40 healthy participants, G2 – 29 participants with confirmed COVID-19, and G3 – 13 participants previously hospitalized due to COVID-19. Body composition was evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis. PA was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and HRmax was measured during the 12-min Cooper test performed on a rowing ergometer. Results: Healthy students (G1 ) showed the highest PA levels, followed by groups G2 and G3 . Group G1 also exhibited more favorable body composition, with lower values of body mass, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, visceral fat, fat mass, fat-free mass, and skeletal muscle mass (p < 0.001). Maximum heart rate was highest in group G1 (175 beats per minute, bpm) and exceeded the values noted in groups G2 and G3 by 7 and 15 bpm, respectively (p = 0.028). Conclusions: Female students hospitalized due to COVID-19 had lower PA levels, reduced motor fitness, and worse body composition, which may explain their lower HRmax values observed 10 months after the pandemic.
Open Access: Yes
Psychophysiological measures of a SuperEnduro athlete during a world championship: an in-situ case study
Publication Name: Frontiers in Psychology
Publication Date: 2026-03-31
Volume: 17
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Introduction – SuperEnduro is a high-risk motorcycle sport with no prior empirical data. This case study analyzed an elite rider during the fifth round of the 2023/2024 SuperEnduro Grand Prix. Methods – Psychological measures included core-, positive-, and negative affect, expected and perceived performance, mental and physical exhaustion, perceived risk of racing addiction, and a post-race interview. Physiological measures encompassed heart rate, caloric expenditure, work intensity, and training loads. Results – Results showed a decline in core affect, with positive affect remaining high and negative affect low after three races. Anxiety decreased progressively, but perceived and objective performance remained low. Elevated physiological measures and subjective perceptions confirmed SuperEnduro’s intensity. The participant self-identified himself as addicted to racing. However, his addiction score was low, suggesting passion or emotional attachment—a blend of pleasure and pain—driving his commitment to race even when injured. Discussion – These findings provide insight into the physical and psychological demands unique to SuperEnduro athletes.
Open Access: Yes
