Inactivity and health risks
In today’s digital era, it’s easy to overlook the importance of physical activity in our daily lives. New data from the WHO show that nearly one third (31%) of adults worldwide did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022, increasing the risk of certain diseases and health conditions. However, nearly half of…
Social identity and youth development in sport
A recent study reveals how sports shape youth development, particularly for those with limited family or peer support. Having a strong social identity formed through sports had the greatest impact on those with fewer resources. Creating supportive, community-driven environments and training coaches to encourage personal growth and athletic success is key to maximizing their potential…
Pain relief medication in elite athletes
An alarming number of elite athletes rely on pain relief medication to compete through injuries or enhance performance. Despite some caution about side effects, self-administration is common and can be influenced by coaches and medical staff.
Socioeconomic status and sport participation
Socioeconomic status can greatly influence sport participation. For example, a study of more than 1000 youth showed that kids from less affluent families tried fewer sports, had lower rates of overall sports participation, and were less physically active. Reducing common barriers, such as providing affordable sport programs and transportation options, may help to make sport…
Postpartum return to sport
After childbirth, elite women athletes experience many challenges returning to sport, from the uncertainty of training their “new” post-partum bodies to breastfeeding while training and finding care for their babies. In this study, elite athletes offer recommendations for establishing maternity policies and developing postpartum return-to-sport guidelines to support the next generation of elite athlete mothers.
Barriers to growing adaptive sport
What’s stopping people with physical disabilities from staying active after rehab? This study dives into the gaps in community sport programs and reveals surprising opportunities for growth. Discover how better communication and stronger partnerships could change the game.
Comparing anxiety levels in individual vs. team sports
In a study exploring how anxiety levels differed among athletes in individual versus team sports, individual sport athletes reported higher levels of anxiety compared team sport athletes. Female athletes also reported higher levels of anxiety than male athletes. The results of this study point to the importance of tailored mental health supports for athletes based…
Postpartum guidelines for recreational athletes
Recent updates to exercise guidelines now include recreational athletes during pregnancy and postpartum, but guidance on safe training is limited. A study of recreational active women who followed a rehabilitation program focused on core and pelvic floor strength showed significant improvements in pain, urinary dysfunction, and pelvic floor strength, showing the benefits of physical therapy…
Sport passion in athletes
An athlete’s level of commitment and passion can be influenced by many factors. National-level athletes have been shown to exhibit more obsessive passion than non-national athletes. Additionally, a strong coach-athlete relationship is positively linked to higher levels of sport passion.
Reducing anxiety in older adults
The mental health benefits of sports for children are frequently discussed, but what about the benefits for older adults? A recent review found that sport participation can significantly reduce anxiety levels in older adults, showing the importance of providing older adults with opportunities to get involved in sport.