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.

Lifestyle sports and positive development

Many lifestyle sports like climbing, parkour, and surfing can inspire joy, creativity, and connection, helping young people thrive. This study reveals how these dynamic activities foster mental well-being, social bonds, and holistic personal development.

Girls participation in traditionally male dominated sport

With more women participating in sport globally, traditionally male dominated sports like football and cricket are being redefined as more young girls step up to play. This study uncovers their challenges with gender stereotypes that Australian girls face and highlights the crucial role of mentors and social support in breaking barriers and reshaping social norms.

Youth sport engagement through participant driven events

Sport events often focus on adult audiences, potentially overlooking opportunities to engage youth. Participant driven events and smaller community competitions have shown greater promise in fostering long-term involvement in physical activities for youth.

Types of recovery in sport

Curious about different recovery methods? In a study with CrossFit athletes, researchers found that while electrical muscle stimulation had a slight edge in speeding up recovery, the methods tested, electrical muscle stimulation, light exercise, and total rest, were similar in their effectiveness.

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…

Testosterone and sport performance

Higher testosterone levels are linked to faster sprint times in young male athletes, offering a potential edge in performance. While female athletes showed no correlation, males with higher testosterone ran significantly faster in 20 m and 30 m sprints.