Youth athletes turn to coaches and parents for food guidance
Adolescent athletes most often cited parents and coaches as their main sources of food literacy, while non athletes were more likely to rely on peers and social media. Since not all adults in guidance roles offer evidence-based advice, equipping coaches and parents with accurate, sport-specific nutrition resources is key to supporting young athletes’ health and…
Spotting the hidden signs of burnout  
New research found that athletes who feel like they’re not making progress or no longer value their sport are more likely to underperform—regardless of whether they are physically exhausted. These warning signs of burnout highlight the need for coaches and sport leaders to check in on athletes’ motivation, not just their physical load.
Using VR to train attention in sport
A new study found that immersive virtual reality (VR) training helped athletes stay more focused during competition. For coaches and sport organizations, this suggests VR can be a powerful tool to simulate pressure-filled scenarios and sharpen in-game focus and decision-making.
Physical Activity and Concussion Recovery
After a concussion, current guidelines recommend an early return to physical activity if it does not make symptoms worse. A study found that a 20-minute exercise session enhanced executive function in participants. Additionally, they reported a reduction in symptoms within 24 hours of the intervention. This reinforces that healthcare professionals can prescribe physical activity programs…
Concussion non-disclosure in women’s rugby
Disclosing concussion symptoms is crucial for proper recovery and to prevent a second impact. A study of female rugby players found that many conceal their symptoms due to concerns about work, limited awareness, and poor communication around concussion management. Recognizing these barriers can help team managers develop initiatives that encourage symptom disclosure and enhance education.
Monitoring Athletes’ Mental Fatigue
Athletes are susceptible to mental fatigue, which can negatively impact both their physical performance and technical skills. Researchers found that mental fatigue in athletes varied significantly during the pre-season and decreased as competition neared. Which means, monitoring athletes’ mental fatigue could help practitioners better tailor recovery strategies — especially during the pre-season.
Concussion Recovery and Psychosocial Factors
Athletes who have experienced a sport-related concussion may be at risk of persistent symptoms. A study of 353 young hockey players found that psychological distress related to concussion outcomes and a history of problems with peers before the injury were associated with slower recovery. Addressing these psychosocial factors could help support a quicker return to…
Knowledge and education on sport-related concussions
Several initiatives aim to educate athletes about sport-related concussions. A recent study involving 593 athletes found those who had received concussion education, experienced a concussion, or had access to medical staff demonstrated better knowledge. To enhance safety and awareness, tailored educational initiatives could be designed to reach athletes without access to medical support.