Knowledge Nuggets

Can standardized drills designed to measure strength, speed and explosiveness predict success in complex sports such as football? Analysis from sport scientists at the University of Rhode Island found the NFL Scouting Combine can predict only 20-25 percent of a player’s future success, and fails to capture intangible traits such as leadership, drive and “mental...

Many ultramarathon runners believe the consumption of sodium supplements during competition will prevent the symptoms of exercise-associated hyponatremia, including dehydration, muscle cramping, and nausea. However, accumulating evidence suggests supplementing sodium intake above what is consumed in food and drink is generally not necessary, and could be dangerous.

In October 2019, Kenyan athlete Eliud Kipchoge ran a sub-two-hour marathon. Research from the University of Exeter on a previous attempt in 2017 discovered elite runners require a “perfect balance” of VO2 max (rate of oxygen uptake), efficiency of movement, and a high “lactate turn point” (above which the body experiences more fatigue) for success.

Services at major sport events can impact athlete satisfaction and performance. Data collected from 430 athletes competing at the 2018 Commonwealth Games found that a safe and secure environment, the availability of medical/health treatment, and provision of social and ceremonial aspects were essential for performance success.

February is Black History Month, a national initiative to honour the legacy of Black Canadians. Despite facing systematic discrimination, Black Canadians have persevered and triumphed in sport. Ryerson University’s Nicole Forrester talks about the impact of George Dixon, Barbara Howard, Harry Jerome, and other trailblazing athletes on Canadian sport in the Conversation.

For many national athletes, the postponement of Tokyo 2020 has let them build their physical and mental performance. Athletes have addressed longstanding physical issues like chronic injuries, biomechanical and technique corrections, and strength deficits. Mentally, Seyi Smith, Chair of the Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission, suggests the postponement was probably the “best mental resilience training...

The Winter 2021 SIRCuit is now available!  For many, the new year presents an opportunity to set new goals, refine behaviours, or let go of something that is holding them back. This edition of the SIRCuit provides takes a deep dive into self-compassion, athlete identification, relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S), engaging masters athletes, and social learning...

Welcome to 2021! The SIRC team is looking forward to an exciting year of keeping you informed with the latest news, research, and jobs from the sport community across Canada. Be sure to follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. In case you missed it, be sure to check out our Looking Back – 2020...

Did you know the worldwide esports industry revenues are expected to top $159 billion by the end of 2020, and to have engaged more than 2.7 billion gamers? Within these staggering numbers, virtual cycling has carved out a not insignificant piece of the pie. Learn more about the benefits and possibilities of virtual cycling in...

Athletes often tie their self worth to their accomplishments, improvements, and outcomes in sport. Transitioning out of sport, due to retirement or injury, can compromise their sense of self worth. Feelings of having nothing to offer, being inadequate, and feeling unsure of their value in life can negatively affect the individual’s mental health.