Knowledge Nuggets

MLSE LaunchPad’s MISSION Measurement Model builds on three years of refining the organization’s research and evaluation activities to increase youth engagement. Emerging best practices include keeping it short, only asking question that will inform decision-making, using “I” statements, and digitizing the process.

Sitting all day can have short- and long-term health implications, from neck and back pain and mental fogginess, to increased risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Whether it’s a quick morning stretch with the kids, a lunch-time workout, a mid-afternoon walk with the dog, find ways to increase movement throughout the day. Read...

Game Plan’s Managing Uncertainty During COVID-19 workbook is a practical tool to support positive mental health through self-awareness, acceptance, adaptability and values-based behaviour. The workbook was developed for Canada’s high performance athletes but is great for anyone wanting to hone their skills and build resilience.

Feeling anxious? New research has shown that eye contact during interactions on video conferencing platforms has the same impact on our nervous system as in-person eye contact – helping us feel calm and connected. So turn on the video and adjust your camera to look directly at your family, friends and colleagues.

Carol LaFayette-Boyd is one of Canada’s rising track and field stars – at the age of 77. The multiple world record holder is one of a growing number of Masters athletes forcing us to consider new frontiers in human performance. Learn about the physical, social and psychological benefits of Masters sport in the SIRCuit.

New research from Western University shows rewards as little as 4 cents a day can motivate physical activity-related behaviour change. Findings from a year-long evaluation of the Carrot Rewards app demonstrated use was associated with an increase in weekly step count on a population-scale, but was most evident for users who were physically inactive and...

Even the most solitary of sports — distance running — is not immune to the COVID-19 lockdown. Using a combination of live-streaming and the honor code, 2,400 participants from 56 countries took part in the Quarantine Backyard Ultra. For 63 consecutive hours, runners completed 4.167 miles every hour at any pace, targeting 262 miles. While...

The abrupt closure of gyms and recreational facilities, coupled with limited access to public parks and trails, has made it much more difficult to exercise. In response, researchers at McMaster University are developing exercise protocols to help combat the anxiety and mental stress brought on by social isolation, physical distancing and the uncertainty of the...

It’s Mental Health Week. This year’s theme is #GetReal about how you feel. From to expressing how you really feel, to active listening and care-mongering, this resource from the Canadian Mental Health Association will help you check in on your mental health, and the mental health of your family and friends.

Is your at-home office literally a pain in the neck? University of Alberta ergonomics expert Linda Miller offers advice to help maintain good posture while working in less than ideal settings during COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to adding movement into your day, Miller suggests supporting your feet and back, using an external keyboard, and minimizing...