Knowledge Nuggets

In a skeleton race, improvements of fractions of a second at the start can make all the difference at the finish line. Researchers from the University of Bath recently developed the first non-invasive motion capture technology to accurately track the push-start phase of a skeleton race. The new technology could help athletes and coaches track...

Is focusing on the negatives of the COVID-19 pandemic increasing your stress and decreasing your motivation? Adopting a solution-focused mindset means challenging yourself to find new and better ways to cope with the current realities. Research shows this shift in mindset can increase self-confidence and promote a positive mood.

Stress fractures are observed more frequently in female runners, compared to males. Analysis of women’s perception of risk and behaviors discovered those with a history of fractures increased their training load more quickly, and, despite knowing the benefits, they did not prioritize a balanced diet and complementary cross-training.

Virtual volunteering can reduce some of the barriers to volunteering with more schedule flexibility, micro assignments requiring shorter time investment, and allowing people to contribute from home. Learn more in the SIRCuit.

Are the bloggers you follow certified exercise professionals? A study from the University of Alberta examined 194 popular fitness and exercise blogs, with a focus on blog authors. Results found only 16.4% of bloggers report have fitness and exercise certifications, although 57% report being a fitness or exercise professional.

A team that consistently emphasizes a “win at all cost” attitude could be a team that has developed a tendency to turn a blind eye to injury, reinforcing under-reporting of concussion by members. Recent studies suggest an alarming trend in youth sport for athletes to “power through” symptoms, jeopardizing their own heath for the perceived...

Not feeling like you usual positive self? Perhaps you didn’t sleep well last night. Research shows sleep loss reduces our positive feelings in the face of both stressors and positive events.

Following a reduction of public health restrictions, some athletes may be excited about being with friends, returning to training, and looking forward to competition; others will experience fear and anxiety relating to the risk of infection, the effects of detraining, or being behind competitors and teammates. Coaches can learn more to prepare for this range...

One in five individuals experience public speaking anxiety. In the current context of Zoom calls and online webinars, this can be particularly challenging. To create safe, supportive and productive sessions, consider providing an agenda and using linking statements and signposts to help anxious participants feel more comfortable.

At MLSE LaunchPad, evaluation activities have gone courtside! Coaches and program leaders distribute tablets for survey completion and conduct mini interviews on the sidelines or in the bleachers, ensuring youth feel they’re still part of the action and not missing out on program time.