Knowledge Nuggets

In sports like swimming that tend to revolve around “best times,” it’s important to have reasons for participating that aren’t related to performance. There will always come a time when an athlete hits their limit and can’t go any faster. Having other reasons to participate, like friendships and fitness, will keep them involved long-term. Learn...

Exercise alters brain blood flow and improves cognitive performance in older adults, though not in the way you might think. Research from the University of Maryland discovered that while exercise beneficially increased the blood flow to the brain in healthy adults, it decreased the blood flow in adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This decrease...

Does the colour of your uniform bias your chances of winning? In judo, a white judogi has been commonly considered a disadvantage because it was thought to be more visible, allowing athletes in blue to better evaluate and anticipate the movement of their (white) opponent. However, research now suggests that a winning bias is attributed...

SIRC’s new Sport Insight series examines how rule changes, technology and advances in training and technique are evolving the sport landscape. In the first piece from the series, learn more about curling’s Free Guard Zone rule.

The Federal Government’s Budget 2019 announced $30 million over five years, and $6 million per year ongoing, to enable Canada’s national sport organizations to promote accessible, ethical, equitable and safe sport.

Wondering if your organization’s new program is effective? Sport Canada’s Innovation Initiative provides funding to deliver and test innovative program approaches to build the evidence base about what works to reduce the barriers to participation, increase physical literacy, support retention in sport, and achieve social goals through sport. The deadline to submit a concept is...

Athletes learn to hide effort and pain in the pursuit of performances that are strong, flawless, and seemingly effortless. But off the field of play, we need to create a culture where athletes struggling with injury, whether physical or mental, can ask for help. This SIRC blog provides insights and tips for athletes, support team...

Today is World Sleep Day. Are Canadians getting enough sleep? According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, 1 in 2 adults have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep; 1 in 5 adults do not find their sleep refreshing; and 1 in 3 adults have difficulty staying awake during waking hours. Find out more...

In these days of doping scandals, athletes can find themselves wondering about the other athletes lining up beside them. Canadian weightlifter Christine Girard, awarded medals from the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games in December 2018, advises athletes to stay true to their values, work hard, and trust in the system. Learn more about her journey...

Gender Equity is key to achieving a world class sport system – research shows that organizations with the most gender diversity outperform those with the least. Research conducted by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS) shows that the overall number of women on boards is trending up,...