Browsing by Author "Harris, Kevin W."

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    The effects of the powercam crank system on physiological and perceptual indicators of efficiency in humans during endurance cycling
    Harris, Kevin W. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1986)
    Six adult male volunteers of similar body size (x̄ ± SD:ht = 184.6 ± 6.4 cm; wt = 80.86 ± 2.7 kg) and aerobic exercise capacity (VO₂ = 38 ± 3.1 ml·kg⁻¹. min⁻¹) were tested to determine what physiological and perceptual differences existed during endurance cycling using a Powercam (Houdaille, Inc.) crank system (CAM) as compared to a standard crank system (STD). Following preliminary tests to determine the subject's working capacity, each was assigned to ride either in the CAM or STD mode for 1 hour using a gear ratio that would require an effort equal to 70% of the VO₂ max. After a minimum of 72 hours between trials, subjects were retested in the converse mode. Measurements that included HR, BP, VO₂, surface EMG, and RPE were monitored at 15 minute intervals during both tests. Responses were very similar across modes and between subjects. Although subjects demonstrated responses that may indicate an improved efficiency for a particular mode, the group did not display patterns that would indicate efficiency for the Powercam crank system.
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    Parental Expectations of High School Interscholastic Athletic Activities
    Harris, Kevin W. (Virginia Tech, 1999-07-26)
    High school coaching is recognized by many to be a very difficult occupation. Many of the pressures in coaching center around the interactions which occur between coaches and the parents of the athletes they coach. Very little is known about what parents expect from high school athletic programs. In order to determine what parental expectations are of high school sports, parents from three schools within the same school division who had children who participated in a team sport during the 1997-1998 school year were surveyed by mail. The survey attempted to determine parental positions on various issues which included the relationship between athletic participation and self-esteem, responsible decision making, educational aspirations, participation in games, parental support for their children, and expectations of coaches. A response rate of over 40 percent was observed. In addition responses were disaggregated to determine if differences existed between schools and gender. Responses to the survey indicate that parents are very supportive of athletic activities and believe that athletics have a positive influence on the lives of their children. Substantial differences between gender and schools were not observed. Results from this survey can provide coaches with an abundance of information that can be used in establishing athletic programs and maintaining positive relationships with parents of their athletes.