Knowledge Nuggets

To combat escalating abuse from parents and coaches, a minor soccer association plans to equip referees with body cameras aiming to protect young referees and deter aggressive behaviour. In Ontario, a pilot project with referee-worn cameras has shown promise, acting as a visual deterrent against abuse and providing referees with a tool to record incidents.

Amidst the cost of living crisis, women and girls encounter barriers to sports participation. Research from Women in Sport shows a widening gender activity gap, with 35% reducing activity due to financial constraints. Urgent action is needed to address economic, societal, and facility challenges for equitable access to the lifelong benefits of sport.

Did you know that the effects of pressure on sports performance are more complex than commonly assumed? A new study examined various pressure conditions in golf putting and found that while some conditions impaired performance, others actually improved it! Considering individual pressure factors and tailoring conditions accordingly may optimize performance and highlights the need for...

Parkinson’s disease is a serious medical condition that still does not have any known cure. Parkinson’s is a disease of the brain that causes individuals with it to slowly lose control of their muscles, often leading to tremors, or shaking. A recent study done on Parkinson’s disease patients who engaged in exercise, found that aerobic...

Falls and fall-related injuries pose significant threats not only to older adults but also to younger age groups, including working-age adults. A recent study, which investigated the effects of Judo exercise programs on 142 working-age adults over a period of 10 weeks, suggests that such programs may offer benefits in reducing the risk of falls...

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects more than 300 million individuals worldwide. Although various pharmacological treatments exist, recent research suggests that there could be additional benefits with lifestyle changes, particularly with increased physical activity.

It is crucial to maintain both mental and physical health for optimal living and sport performance. A recent study has discovered that engaging in physical activity, particularly through outdoor swimming, is perceived to yield positive health impacts. This practice is linked to reductions in symptoms related to mental health, musculoskeletal issues, injuries, as well as...

With nearly 40% of LGBTQ+ athletes reporting experiencing sports-related mistreatment, it is important to look into ways to increase acceptance and diversity in the sporting world. A recent study examines the relationships between adults’ sexuality, sports-related mistreatment, and sports involvement. The study’s findings suggest that more action is necessary to reduce prejudice and to provide...

Parents supporting young para-athletes report challenges including limited local sports options and funding difficulties. Recognizing these hurdles, and understanding their impact, can inform improved support mechanisms for the sports sector like addressing cultural barriers, engaging parents in program development, enhancing access to sports for disabled youth, and refining talent identification pathways for aspiring para-athletes.

Up and coming research from a PhD student at the university of Alberta combines art therapy with concussion recovery science. The research explores communication challenges faced by youth post-concussion and showcases the power of art as a tool for self-expression, calling for a reimagining of rehabilitation in concussion management.