Date: Sunday, 05/17/2026
Time: 10:00 – 11:30
Venue: Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
Round Tables
Chair:
Evangelos Bebetsos, Professor, DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Yannis Theodorakis, University of Thessaly
Speakers:
Yannis Theodorakis, University of Thessaly
Evangelos Bebetsos, Professor, DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Olga Kouli, DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Abstract:
Physical inactivity, sedentary behavior, and excessive internet use are global problems, and the initiatives undertaken by international and national organizations are insufficient to effectively address them. These issues pose a serious threat to public health, as both children and adults fail to meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity. It is estimated that health risks affecting nearly 500 million people between 2020 and 2030 could be mitigated through increased physical activity. The global economic cost of health problems related to physical inactivity is estimated at approximately 47.6 billion US dollars annually. This section will present the necessary initiatives that scientific organizations, such as universities, should undertake at the national level, based on the guidelines of the World Health Organization. Examples will be presented for the design of exercise-for-health programs across all age groups, as well as for Physical Education in schools, based on goal setting theory and other psychological strategies. The session will conclude with the adaptation of these examples to competitive sport. Psychological strategies, as planning tools, can be utilized both in combating physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles and in improving quality of life and maximizing performance. At the same time, competitive sport can inspire the general population to engage more in physical activity, while increased population participation can, in turn, enhance the number of individuals involved in competitive sport.
Date: Friday, 05/15/2026
Time: 15:30 – 17:00
Venue: Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
With the support of the “Exercise Physiology and Sports Training Science” Postgraduate Program:
Chair:
Ilias Smilios, Professor DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace,
Director of the Postgraduate Program: “Exercise Physiology and Sports Training Science”
Athanasios Chatzinikolaou, Professor DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Speakers:
Gerasimos Terzis, Professor, Athletic Throws, Dean of School of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
Nikolaos Zaras, Assistant Professor, Resistance Training and Neuromuscular Adaptations, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace, Komotini, Greece
Theodoros Stampoulis, Assistant Professor, Nutrition and Physical Activity as Quality-of-Life Parameters, Department Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace, Komotini, Greece
Pyrros Dimas, Olympic Champion, Μember of the Hellenic Weightlifting Federation
Theano Zaglivery, Former Weightlifting Athlete, Current President of the Hellenic Weightlifting Federation
Abstract:
The purpose of the roundtable is to present the biological determinants which influence weightlifting performance as we as the training and nutrition strategies to enhance weightlifting performance especially prior to competitions. In weightlifting, lean mass in both male and female athletes seems to contribute to performance. Studies have shown that the percentage of muscle fiber type IIa distribution prevails over the total muscle fiber distribution while a significant connection exists between percentage muscle fiber IIa and weightlifting performance. Moreover, weightlifters are known for their high neuromuscular activation of the protagonist muscles which lead to a higher recruitment of type II motor units and as a consequence to greater power production. From a practical perspective, long-term training enhances the biological determinants, leading to significant increases in strength, power and performance. In addition, performance is enhanced prior to major competitions with tapering. Tapering in weightlifting includes the reduction of both training intensity and volume, especially during the final week before the competition. For a successful competition it is suggested a tapering period of 8.0±4.4 days, with the last high intensity training performed 5.9±2.3 days prior to competition while it is recommended 1.5±0.6 days abstinence from training. However, research evidence suggests that a priming training session with low volume and moderate to high intensity 6-24 hours prior to competition may significantly enhance performance. Furthermore, nutrition in youth or adult athletes is a foundation factor for enhancing performance. Adequate macronutrient intake is crucial for muscle mass development, neuromuscular performance, and recovery from training stress. Additionally, adopting proper nutritional habits and strategies can contribute to better body mass management and enhanced performance during the competitive season.
Date: Friday, 05/15/2026
Time: 12:00 – 14:00
Venue:Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health”
of the Department of Physical Education and Sport of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with the National Center for Science Research “DEMOKRITOS”- The Institute of Informatics and Telecommunications (IIT)
Chair:
Savvas Tokmakidis, Emeritus Professor, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Michail Koukourakis, Professor of Radiation Oncology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace,
Speakers:
The Greek National Cancer Mission Hub
Georgios Kapetanakis, President of the Hellenic Cancer Federation (ELLOK) and patient representative for Cancer in Greece
Muscle Contraction, Metabolism and the Tumor Microenvironment: Biological Mechanisms with Translational Implications
Christos Zois,Assistant Professor of Clinical Radiation Oncology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace
(VIRTUAL)
PET/MRI Imaging during Exercise in Cancer Patients
Ilkka Heinonen, Docent, Department of Clinical Medicine, Academy Research Fellow, Turku PET Centre, Finland
Exercise Oncology: Exercise as the Fourth Pillar of Cancer Treatment
Apostolos Spassis, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Specialized Teaching Staff, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Abstract:
Exercise is now recognized as a fundamental pillar of modern oncology care, with robust scientific evidence supporting its contribution to improving quality of life and managing symptoms associated both with the disease itself and with anticancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Systematic and individualized exercise significantly contributes to reducing cancer-related fatigue, preserving muscle mass and functional capacity, and enhancing psychological well-being. Its effective implementation in clinical practice requires interdisciplinary collaboration and structured planning, involving oncologists, radiation oncologists, and exercise specialists. At the same time, the active engagement of cancer patient advocacy and support organizations plays a crucial role in raising awareness, empowering patients, and facilitating access to structured exercise programs. The “Oncology 360°” approach proposes a comprehensive, patient-centered model of care in which exercise is systematically integrated into the treatment plan, constituting an essential component of holistic oncology management.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 17:30 – 18:30
Venue: Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
With the support of:
Chair:
Georgia Yfantidou, Associate Professor DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Speakers:
Georgios Pigos, Head of the Directorate of Sport for All, Promotion, Sports Development, Scientific Support and International Relations at the General Secretariat of Sport, Greece
Georgios Pigos serves as Head of the Directorate of Sport for All, Promotion, Sports Development, Scientific Support and International Relations at the General Secretariat of Sport, Greece. He is responsible for the design and implementation of national sports participation programs and contributes to the development of sports policy and international cooperation initiatives. His work focuses on promoting physical activity, supporting innovation, and strengthening sustainable employment and development in the sports sector at national and European level.
Stylianos Ignatiadis, Deputy Regional Governor for Sports and Employment at the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
Stylianos Ignatiadis serves as Deputy Regional Governor for Sports and Employment at the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. He has been working at the Public Employment Service (DYPA) since 2006, gaining extensive experience in employment and social policy. He is also a certified UEFA A football coach and has actively contributed to the development of sport at local and regional level. His work focuses on promoting sports participation, strengthening employment opportunities, and supporting regional development through sport.
Georgia Yfantidou, Associate Professor DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Georgia Yfantidou is an Associate Professor specializing in Organization and Management of Sport Tourism and Recreation at the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH). She serves as the Institutional Coordinator for Student Internship Programs at DUTH. She holds a PhD in Sport Tourism and two Master’s degrees, one in International Hospitality and Tourism and another in Physical Activity and Recreation. Furthermore, she has participated in numerous research and development projects across the European Union.
Abstract:
Employment in the sports sector in Europe is undergoing significant transformation, influenced by social, economic, and technological developments. This discussion draws on recent European research data highlighting current employment challenges and emerging forms of work within the sports industry. Factors such as digitalization, labor market flexibility, the growth of part-time and project-based work, and the emergence of new professional roles are shaping a dynamic yet demanding employment landscape. At the same time, the need for specialized skills, continuous professional training, and lifelong learning has become essential for professionals seeking to adapt to evolving labor market requirements. Particular emphasis is placed on enhancing youth employability, promoting equal opportunities, and fostering sustainable and quality jobs in sport. The analysis of European data provides valuable insights for the development of policies and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening human capital and encouraging innovation within the sports sector. It also highlights new opportunities arising from innovative forms of employment, including entrepreneurship, digital services, and cross-sectoral collaboration. Understanding these trends is crucial for supporting employment growth, improving job quality, and ensuring the sustainable development of the sports sector across Europe.
Date: Friday, 05/15/2026
Time: 17:00 – 18:30
Venue: Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
Chair:
Konstantinos Beis, (PhD, MSc), EEP, TEFAA-AUTH
Christos Ormanlidis (MSc)
Speakers:
Michalis Mouroutsos, Gold Olympic Taekwondo Champion
Konstantinos Beis (PhD, MSc), EEP, TEFAA-AUTH
Andreas Christidis, Professor of Physical Education (MSc)
Angeliki Kavvoura, PhD candidate
Evangelos Theodorou, Professor of Physical Education, PhD in Medicine
Abstract:
This round table aims to present Taekwondo as an integrated developmental and performance model, linking its contribution to brain maturation and psychosomatic development in childhood with contemporary scientific approaches to combat performance assessment.The contribution of Taekwondo to functional brain and central nervous system maturation is examined through its complex motor and cognitive environment. The wide repertoire of techniques, tactical decisions, combinational movements, traditional and competitive practice forms, as well as the use of specialized games, create conditions of heightened neuromuscular and cognitive stimulation. Core cognitive functions—including attention, concentration, memory, perception, rapid decision-making, and the simultaneous processing of multiple external stimuli—are systematically enhanced, contributing significantly to the child’s overall developmental trajectory. Furthermore, contemporary research findings on objective combat performance evaluation are presented. The frequency–speed kick test, muscular power, rate of force development, vertical and horizontal jump performance, and body composition emerge as key indicators of competitive level and athletic performance. Particular emphasis is placed on long-term athlete development planning and the avoidance of early specialization, aiming to ensure psychosomatic safety and sustainable athletic progression. The scientific framework is complemented by the experiential contribution of Olympic Gold Medalist Michalis Mouroutsos, highlighting the link between a properly structured developmental foundation and high-level competitive success.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 12:00 – 13:45
Venue: Amphitheater “G. Papadriellis”
Chair:
Paraskevi Malliou
G. Tsikouris
Speakers:
G. Tsikouris
Asimenia Gioftsidou
Athanasios Gkrekidis
Theodoros Staboulis
Abstract:
The roundtable discussion on the prevention and management of injuries in power sports will present epidemiological data on injuries that occur in power sports such as weightlifting and wrestling. In addition, the principles of designing rehabilitation programs after injuries that occur in powerlifting will be analyzed. For the sport of wrestling, based on the epidemiological data of the injuries that have been recorded, the factors that must be taken into account for the effective design of an injury prevention program will be mentioned. Nutrition plays an important role in the management of power sports athletes. The nutritional approach of weightlifting athletes will be analyzed, which aims to optimize performance, strength and recovery after training. Energy needs are increased due to intense training, therefore adequate calorie intake and proper distribution of macronutrients are required. Furthermore, strategic nutrition planning is often a key element in the prevention and recovery of injuries, which often occur due to high loads and high intensities.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Venue: Small Amphitheater
Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health”
of the Department of Physical Education and Sport of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with the National Center for Science Research “DEMOKRITOS”- The Institute of Informatics and Telecommunications (IIT)
Chair:
Helen Douda, Professor, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Director of the Inter-institutional Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health”
Konstantinos Volaklis, Associate Professor, D.P.E.S.S, Democritus University of Thrace
Speakers:
Bariatric-Metabolic Surgery in Morbid Obesity
Ilias Sdralis, General Surgeon, Director of Bariatric & Metabolic Disorders Surgery Department of Interbalkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki
Nutritional support of the bariatric patient
Marilena Giannakopoulou, Clinical Dietician, Bariatric & Metabolic Disorders Surgery Department of Interbalkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki
The role of exercise in bariatric-metabolic surgery
Alexios Batrakoulis, PhD, CSCS, ACSM-EP, FACSM, Assistant Professor of Applied and Clinical Exercise Physiology, School of Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
Thaleia Bellali, Professor, Department of Nursing, International Hellenic University / Adjunct Professor, Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus
From Compliance to Adherence: The Interdisciplinary Management of Obesity through the Biopsychosocial Model of Health
Abstract:
In the present roundtable, the modern scientific developments in the field of bariatric surgery will be discussed, which constitutes the treatment of choice for patients with morbid obesity. Based on recent scientific data, maintaining a good postoperative outcome requires interdisciplinary follow-up of the patient after surgery in order to sustain weight loss and reduce the risk of lean body mass loss. The dietary guidelines provided to patients, as well as the exercise instructions and protocols applied both pre- and post-operatively, will be presented and discussed. Particular emphasis is also placed on the distinction between compliance and adherence to therapeutic recommendations, as adherence does not involve the passive acceptance of instructions but rather the active participation of the individual with obesity in decision-making, the co-creation of achievable goals, and the joint agreement on an intervention plan that reflects their needs, capacities, and priorities. From this perspective, the therapeutic alliance is substantially strengthened, creating more favorable conditions for the long-term maintenance of lifestyle changes. In this light, it is argued that an interdisciplinary, rather than merely multidisciplinary team, constitutes the most appropriate and effective approach for the management of morbid obesity.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 16:00 – 17:30
Venue: Hall 6
Chair:
Ioannis Mparmpas, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Director of the Inter-institutional Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health”
Speakers:
Nikos Tsiakaras, DPESS, University of Thessaly
Vassilios Gerodimos, Professor DPESS, University of Thessaly
Konstantina Karatrandou, Associate Professor DPESS, University of Thessaly
Abstract:
The case of APS Trikala, new trends in the evaluation and coaching of wrestling athletes of developmental ages and its co-research in sports. Strategies and actions for the promotion of the health of young wrestlers in Greece
Date: Sunday, 05/17/2026
Time: 12:00 – 13:30
Venue: Teleconference Hall
Chair:
George Costa, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Efi Tsitskari, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
Speakers:
Nickos Theodorakis, Professor D.P.E.S.S. of Serres, AUTh
George Tzetzis, Professor D.P.E.S.S., A.U.Th.
Jeronimo Garcia Fernandez, Professor, Universidad de Seville
Abstract:
This roundtable discussion focuses on the increasingly critical role of marketing and management in shaping sustainable sports organizations and events. In an environment where the demand for financial resilience, social responsibility and environmental sensitivity is growing, strategies developed in the sports sector must incorporate sustainability principles at all levels of operation. The discussion highlights how entrepreneurship and technology can enhance the sustainability of sporting events through three distinct yet complementary approaches. These approaches focus on the running movement, the role of sports marketing in creating long-term value and stability for professional basketball teams, and the contribution of digital fitness apps to the sustainable operation of fitness clubs and studios. The roundtable discussion aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by offering a multidimensional framework for understanding sustainability in sports. It also highlights the importance of innovation, digital transformation and strategic thinking as key drivers in creating resilient, socially responsible sports organizations that can respond to contemporary challenges and generate long-term value for all stakeholders.
Date: Sunday, 05/17/2026
Time: 12:00 – 13:30
Venue: Amphitheater “G.Papadriellis”
Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health” Department of Physical Education and Sport Science of the School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy of Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with the National Center for Science Research “DEMOKRITOS” – The Institute of Informatics and Telecommunications (IIT)
Chair:
Nikolaos Vernadakis, Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace
Maria Giannousi, Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace
Abstract:
This round table explores contemporary applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in health and sports science through three equal and interrelated thematic axes, highlighting the transition toward intelligent, proactive, and explainable decision-support systems.
The first axis addresses the fundamental principles of machine learning, with emphasis on supervised learning and model interpretability as essential factors for trust, transparency, and adoption in clinical and applied environments.
The second axis focuses on deep learning and computer vision for analyzing human motion and behavior, including human and object detection, pose estimation for fall prediction, human activity recognition, and facial analysis for emotion and fatigue assessment through landmark-based methods.
The third axis examines the transformation of sports science through AI, where the integration of computer vision, wearable technologies, and generative AI enables proactive performance monitoring, injury prevention, and enhanced coaching workflows.
Overall, the panel highlights a unified human–machine collaboration framework in which Artificial Intelligence supports rather than replaces scientific and professional decision-making.
Speakers:
George Panayiotou, Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Physiology, School of Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
George Panagiotou is an academic at the rank of Associate Professor and serves as Coordinator of the Exercise, Health and Human Performance Laboratory as well as the Master’s Programme in Applied Sport Science at the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, European University Cyprus. He specializes in the assessment and analysis of athletic performance in football and in high-performance sport more broadly. Over the past 20 years, he has collaborated with numerous football clubs in Cyprus and abroad. He has served as Exercise Physiologist and Director of Medical and Scientific Staff at AEL Limassol (2008–2014) and at AC Omonia Nicosia (2018–2019).
Ioannis Kansizoglou, Assistant Professor at the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace
Ioannis Kansizoglou is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace. He received his Diploma in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2017 and his Ph.D. in deep representation learning and affective computing from the Laboratory of Robotics and Automation, DUTH, in 2021. He has previously served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the same laboratory, contributing to projects funded by the European Commission and the Greek Government. His research interests include assistive technologies, affective computing, human–computer interaction, and robotics.
Christos Kokkotis, Assistant Professor at the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace
Dr. Christos Kokkotis is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace. He holds a PhD in Machine Learning applications in Quality of Life from the University of Thessaly. His research focuses on motion analysis, time-series data, and the development of machine learning and deep learning models in healthcare and rehabilitation. He has worked on applications including knee osteoarthritis prediction, stroke recovery, and ACL rehabilitation monitoring. He has also contributed to research projects at CERTH within the OActive and SafeACL programs. Dr. Kokkotis is actively involved in Horizon-funded projects and his work aims to bridge AI and clinical practice through interpretable and data-driven solutions.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 14:00 – 15:45
Venue: Amphitheater “G.Papadriellis”
Coming soon…
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 10:00 – 11:45
Venue: Amphitheater “G.Papadriellis”
Abstract:
The roundtable will highlight the dynamic transformation of the agri-food sector through the convergence of technology, sustainability, and modern gastronomy. The speakers’ contributions will offer a comprehensive approach, spanning from primary production to the final consumer experience. Maria Pappa, Professor and Head of the Department of Agricultural Development DUTh, will focus on the transition from conventional agriculture to low-input systems, presenting tools and practices of biological plant protection. She will emphasize the importance of aligning with the objectives of the Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy, underlining that sustainability will become a key pillar for the future of agriculture. Athanasios Alexopoulos, Professor at the Department of Agricultural Development DUTh, will analyze the role of digital agriculture and precision farming in ensuring food quality and safety. At the same time, he will explore the challenges and opportunities arising from new forms of food, highlighting the need for modern regulatory frameworks and innovative approaches. Theodoros Markopoulos, Vice Regional Governor of Kavala and Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemistry of DUTh, will examine the food market and its future prospects, analyzing consumption trends, shifts in demand, and the role of innovation in shaping new business models. He will highlight both the opportunities and the challenges the sector will face in an ever-changing economic and social environment. Aikaterini Karampatea, Assistant Professor at the Department of Viticulture and Oenology DUTh, will present the new era of wine, where ethical cultivation and technology will redefine both production and consumption experiences. She will place emphasis on sustainability, traceability, and strengthening product identity. Dimitrios Tziovaras, Chef at Makedonia Palace, will approach modern gastronomy through the lens of functional nutrition, highlighting the connection between taste, health, and science. He will point out that the contemporary chef will play a decisive role in integrating innovation and sustainable practices into the gastronomic experience. Overall, the discussion will demonstrate that the future of the food & wine sector will be shaped through interdisciplinary collaboration and the adoption of sustainable and innovative practices, aiming to produce high-quality, safe, and modern products that meet consumer needs.
