Knowledge Nuggets

In the latest SIRCTalks episode, Building Capacity Through Research, Amreen Kadwa discusses how she used research on inclusivity in sport to support the development of Hijabi Ballers – a community-based organization that celebrates Muslim women and girls in sport. Watch it here.

In 2016-2017, 26% of all brain injuries seen in Ontario and Alberta emergency departments were sport-related, and the majority of these (94%) were linked to concussion. Check out this infographic from the Canadian Institute for Health Information.

Physical literacy has become an important outcome across many educational, sport, and recreation settings in Canada. Research from Brock University finds pedagogical strategies that incorporate a Teaching Games for Understanding approach can support the development of physical literacy among elementary-school-aged youth.

Research from the University of Alberta finds intense cold-weather exercise makes it harder for the lungs to warm and humidify the air, causing airway lining to dry and, in some cases, become irreparably damaged. When temperatures plunge below –15 C, researchers recommend athletes decrease the intensity of outdoor exercise to protect their lungs.

The NFL Orthopaedic Surgery Outcomes Database compares return-to-play rates and performance-based outcomes amongst NFL players who had orthopaedic surgery. Trends show players who undergo surgical procedures for tendon injuries experience a worse career trajectory than players who have surgery to fix fractures and sports hernia.

Today is CTE Awareness Day! Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a degenerative brain condition resulting from traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and repeated hits to the head – called subconcussive head impacts. Addressing concussion safety and treatment was identified as a priority in the new Minister of Canadian Heritage Mandate Letter. Learn more in the SIRC...

Today is Bell Let’s Talk Day – a national initiative to build awareness, acceptance and action relating to mental health. While 84% of Canadians say they are comfortable speaking with others about mental health, athletes report a number of barriers to disclosing psychological distress. These include “tough” sport cultures, fear of stigma from coaches and teammates, and...

Today is Data Privacy Day, an international effort to create awareness about the importance of respecting privacy and safeguarding data. In this SIRC blog, Natasha Johnstone, Executive Director of Ringette Canada, shares her organization’s ransomware experience, and provides tips for preventing an attack and responding if your computer network is compromised.

Intermittent fasting, or eating during a certain time period, has become increasingly popular. Research suggests intermittent fasting may be beneficial for weight loss and cardiometabolic health in sedentary populations, but the effects on training and performance have not been well-studied.

Looking for ideas to activate your classroom or recreational program this winter? The Winter Olympic Games edition of the Canadian Olympic Activity Challenge Cards features 12 physical activity challenges for the classroom, gymnasium or outside.