Knowledge Nuggets

The impacts of coronavirus COVID-19 are being felt around the world. For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19, sport organizations should refer to the World Health Organization and Health Canada for daily reports, travel advice and protection strategies. Resources from Health Canada include guidance for risk-informed decision-making for mass gatherings.

The “10,000-hour rule” – the notion that 10,000 hours of practice are needed to become an expert in any domain (including sport) – is based on a 1993 study of violinists. But new research replicating the 1993 study could not verify the results. The amount of practice accumulated did not correspond to skill level.

Physical fitness could be the key to enhancing brain health, according to a recent study published in Nature. Among healthy young adults, better physical fitness was associated with preserved brain structure and enhanced cognition.

New findings from the University of Alberta found that ethnic-minority students felt disrespected when people mispronounced their last names, but appreciated it when people made an effort to get it right. With many organizations committed to making sport environments welcoming and inclusive, asking for correct pronunciation is a best practice to demonstrate respect and educate...

Creating a positive social environment that intentionally fosters a sense of belonging is integral to the retention of girls in sport and physical activity. Canadian Women & Sport’s new She Belongs resource offers practical recommendations for coaches and program leaders focused on building a positive culture, creating an inclusive and safe environment, connecting girls with...

March 8th is International Women’s Day. This year’s theme, #EachforEqual, highlights the importance of individual action to influence broader social change. The Government of Canada set a target to achieve gender parity in sport at every level by 2035. Consider how you can challenge stereotypes, fight bias, and improve opportunities for girls and women, as participants...

March is Nutrition Month. The benefits of proper nutrition for athlete training and performance are well established, however, the role of nutrition is often overlooked as a support for sport concussion recovery. Learn about the importance of hydration, omega 3 fatty acids, creatine, polyphenols and vitamins to concussion recovery in the SIRCuit.

Research clearly demonstrates the negative effects of sleep deprivation on athletic performance, including reduced reaction time, accuracy, submaximal strength, and endurance. Cognitive functions such as judgment and decision-making also suffer. Check out this infographic for tips on healthy sleep hygiene.

The Para Sport Jumpstart Fund is designed to support introductory and early competition Para Sport experiences for children and youth with disabilities. Through this partnership between the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, organizations can access funding for registration, transportation and equipment costs. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2020.

Fewer than 1 in 5 Canadians meet Canada’s physical activity guidelines, and low-income Canadians are 33% less likely to be active than higher earners. For low-income families, it’s about more than just cost – safety concerns and lack of time also limit physical activity. Are context-specific guidelines the answer?