Social and psychological impact of frequent sport participation in Masters athletes
In a study exploring the experiences of 40 Masters athletes (ages 50 to 79) across various sports, researchers found that all participants benefited socially and psychologically from sport. However, those training 5+ times per week reported some social downsides, including time away from family. This may explain why some Masters athletes decrease or limit their…
Tailoring sport psychology services for masters athletes
Research focused on mental performance consultants shows that adult-oriented sport psychology services can be an important support for Masters athletes. Interviews with 10 Canadian professionals revealed the importance of tailoring content to performance readiness, balancing priorities, preserving enjoyment, and addressing age-related challenges.
Thinking about an aging, active and sporty population
Introduction There’s no point in writing on this blog that sport and physical activity are beneficial on a social, physical, cognitive and even societal level, because you and I, who work in the field, are convinced of this. What may be enlightening, however, is to reiterate that Canada is undergoing major demographic changes, with an…
Coaching Masters athletes: Innovative workshops bridging the gap in adult sport educationÂ
Masters athletes, typically aged 35 and above (although different sports have different entry ages into masters sport), often surpass the peak performance years of their sport. Despite this, Masters athletes participate in rule-governed, organized sport activities that require formal registration and vary in intensity and competitiveness. Interestingly, while many adults hesitate to label themselves as…
Bridging generations: How physical activity is connecting kids and seniors
It all started with a simple idea: a banner with the words, “You are loved.” Nestled in the heart of Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, a subtle transformation is taking place. Danielle LeDrew, a teacher fueled by boundless enthusiasm at Woodland Primary, has stitched together the young and the young-at-heart through an intergenerational program that’s…
What Masters-level sports can learn from the Invictus Games
This week, the Invictus Games returned to Canada, with an incredible 8 days of adaptive sports that bring together service members and veterans from across the globe. This isn’t just another sporting event. The Invictus Games are an international sport competition that seeks to harness the power of sport to promote the recovery of service…
Chasing dreams at any age: Confessions of a Masters athlete
For Masters athletes, the finish line isn’t a signal to stop, it’s an invitation to continue, proving that age isn’t the end of the race but just another part in the journey of sport. Staying active throughout life is essential for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. In fact, regular physical activity not only improves…
Gender equity for masters athletes
Masters athletes are often seen as examples of healthy aging, but research from the Australian Masters Games, drawing over 5000 participants, highlights class and gender inequalities that are leaving some people out. While celebrating the accomplishments of masters athletes, acknowledging varied aging experiences and providing equitable opportunities for everyone to participate are crucial.
Gender equity for masters athletes
Masters athletes are often seen as examples of healthy aging, but research from the Australian Masters Games, drawing over 5000 participants, highlights class and gender inequalities that are leaving some people out. While celebrating the accomplishments of masters athletes, acknowledging varied aging experiences and providing equitable opportunities for everyone to participate are crucial.