Al-Noor Journal of Physical and Sports Sciences

Abstract The distribution of fat and muscle plays a crucial role in motor performance. While individuals with a mesomorphic body type (muscular) exhibit faster neuromuscular response, which enhances the effectiveness of explosive exercises, those with an endomorphic body type (muscular-fat) demonstrate greater endurance capacity.
This study aimed to:
• Investigate the relationship between somatotypes (mesomorph and endomorph) and physical strength performance in men.
In light of this aim, the researchers proposed the following hypothesis:
• There is a statistically significant relationship between somatotypes (mesomorph and endomorph) and physical strength performance.
The researchers adopted the descriptive correlational method as appropriate for the nature of this study. The experiment was conducted on a sample of 12 advanced-level male powerlifting athletes from Duhok Governorate, divided into two groups (somatotypes), each consisting of 6 players, selected purposefully based on fat and muscle indices. The experiment involved three physical strength tests performed sequentially:(Bench Press, Squat ,Deadlift)
Statistical tools used included mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, skewness, Pearson correlation coefficient, and t-test.
The researchers arrived at the following conclusions:
1. No statistically significant differences were found between the mesomorphic and endomorphic groups in isolated exercises (e.g., bench press), indicating that increased muscle mass does not significantly affect the performance of exercises relying on neuromuscular efficiency and the balance of small muscle groups.
2. Significant differences were observed in favor of the endomorphic group in compound exercises , confirming that compound, absolute-strength-based movements depend more heavily on total muscle mass and the ability to generate muscular torque.

Abstract This study evaluates the impact of digital transformation on rehabilitation and educational programs for individuals with mobility disabilities in Iraq. The increasing integration of digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, wearable devices, and mobile applications—has introduced new opportunities to enhance physical rehabilitation and educational outcomes. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative insights obtained through semi-structured interviews and observational assessments. The study sample consisted of 100 participants enrolled in rehabilitation and educational programs that utilize digital tools.
The findings indicated that digital technologies contributed to moderate improvements in mobility-related skills and learning experiences, with participants reporting generally positive perceptions regarding usability and overall satisfaction. However, several challenges were identified, including limited accessibility, lack of clear guidance, and technical issues, which reduced the effectiveness of digital tools for some users. The results highlight variability in user experiences and emphasize the importance of customization and user-centered design.
The study concludes that digital transformation holds significant potential to enhance rehabilitation and education for individuals with mobility disabilities. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of digital tools depends largely on their adaptability, accessibility, and alignment with individual needs. Developing tailored digital assessment measures and support systems is essential to maximize benefits and improve long-term rehabilitation and educational outcomes..

Abstract This study presents a meta-analysis aimed at identifying the most effective training programs for enhancing leg speed endurance among young male football players in northern Iraq. The descriptive-analytical method (content analysis) was used due to its suitability for analyzing the content of postgraduate theses and dissertations. The research population included 34 studies from faculties of physical education and sports sciences across six northern Iraqi universities. A purposeful sample of 17 studies (50%) focusing on youth training programs was selected for in-depth analysis. Data were collected using a custom-designed analysis form and evaluated statistically through effect size calculations (Cohen’s d). The results revealed significant variation in effectiveness across programs, with effect sizes ranging from 0.213 (below acceptable) to 8.807 (optimal). The average effect size across studies was 1.808, indicating an optimal level of impact. Programs that combined diverse training methods (e.g., interval, plyometric, and circuit training) produced the highest effectiveness. Notably, some programs showed high or optimal effect sizes despite lacking statistical significance, underscoring the importance of using effect size as a complementary indicator. The study concludes that relying solely on statistical significance is insufficient for evaluating training outcomes and recommends incorporating effect size analysis in future research. Additionally, coaches are advised to apply varied and structured training methods to enhance leg speed endurance effectively in young football players.  

Abstract Body composition is a key determinant of athletic performance, influencing both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Understanding the relationship between body composition variables and physiological indicators such as aerobic capacity and heart rate responses is essential for optimizing training programs and improving athletic efficiency. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between body composition components—including body fat percentage (FATP), fat mass (FATM), fat-free mass (FFM), total body water (TBW), and predicted muscle mass (PPM)—and both aerobic capacity and heart rate responses in a sample of athletes. Methods: A descriptive-analytical research design was adopted. The purposive sample consisted of 10 male athletes aged 19–24 years, regularly engaged in physical activity. Anthropometric measurements were performed using a Body Composition Analyzer (TANITA), while aerobic capacity was assessed via the Sharkey test on a treadmill. Heart rate responses during exercise were monitored using a Polar H10 device. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was applied to determine the relationships between body composition variables, aerobic capacity, and heart rate, with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The results revealed very strong and statistically significant positive correlations between FFM (r = 0.990, p = 0.001), TBW (r = 0.991, p = 0.001), and PPM (r = 0.988, p = 0.002) with aerobic capacity. However, FATP and FATM showed positive but non-significant correlations. No significant relationships were found between any body composition variables and heart rate responses during exercise. Conclusions: Fat-free mass, muscle mass, and hydration status are critical predictors of aerobic performance in athletes. Training programs should prioritize improving these components to enhance oxygen utilization and endurance capacity.  

Abstract This study aims to investigate the relationship between emotional response and motivational traits among fourth-year students in the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Al-Noor University, given the psychological and academic pressures they face during their final year. The researcher adopted a descriptive correlational design and employed two questionnaires to measure emotional response and motivational traits, applied to a stratified random sample of 48 male and female students. The findings revealed that students demonstrated a moderately high level of emotional response and a high level of motivational traits. Statistical analysis indicated a significant positive correlation between the two variables at the 0.05 level. These results suggest that students with higher motivation were more capable of regulating their emotions and engaging positively with academic and sports-related challenges. The study concludes that integrating psychological and emotional aspects into educational programs can enhance students’ motivation and academic performance. Accordingly, it recommends implementing counseling and training programs that focus on emotional regulation and self-motivation skills to support students’ success in their academic and professional careers.