Knowledge Nuggets

Finding time for a full workout each day can be challenging, but meeting daily exercise guidelines is important for maintaining good health and overall well-being. To help people stay active during busy times, researchers have been exploring the use of “exercise snacks” or short bursts of movement or structured activities like walking that are spread...

A recent scoping review found that retired hockey players report depressive symptoms at nearly twice the rate of active players, and higher than the general population, due to loss of athletic identity and reduced social support. These findings highlight the need for proactive transition planning and targeted mental health supports post-career.

A recent Canadian study shows that training load isn’t the only factor influencing injury risk in university athletes. Stress from school, relationships, and mental health also play a big role. A more balanced, whole-person approach to training can help sport leaders better support athlete well-being and prevent injuries.

Gambling advertisements are widespread across televised sports and social media in Ontario, with many not fully aligned with provincial guidelines. With youth and vulnerable audiences regularly exposed, researchers emphasize the need for stronger regulation and monitoring of sport-related gambling promotions.

This Canadian study found that racism, sexism, and colonial systems still limit how Indigenous women and girls take part in lacrosse. To move forward, participants emphasized the need for community-led, land-based programs that reflect Indigenous cultures and support their leadership in sport.

An international panel of leading experts in dental trauma and sport dentistry recommends that athletes in high-risk sports like hockey, rugby, and martial arts wear custom-fitted mouth guards to prevent dental injuries. The guideline highlights the role of coaches, parents, and dental professionals in promoting this simple but effective form of protection.

Hormonal IUDs are the most commonly used and best-tolerated form of contraception among female endurance athletes, according to a recent study. With fewer negative side effects and more positive impacts on performance compared to other methods, the findings highlight the need for sport-informed contraceptive counselling to support athlete health and performance.

With an increasing number of heat waves happening across the country, you may be more likely to experience exertional heat stress during the summer months. This happens when physical activity increases heat production, surpassing the body’s cooling capacity. Sport participants should be monitored for signs of heat stress to prevent severe illness and heat stroke.

Mentorship can be a powerful way to support parasport coaches. A recent study found that a virtual mentorship program helped coaches feel more confident, use inclusive terminology, and learn more about coaching athletes with disabilities. The study recommends continuing mentorship programs to help coaches progress, connect, and grow in their roles. 

New research found that athletes who feel like they’re not making progress or no longer value their sport are more likely to underperform—regardless of whether they are physically exhausted. These warning signs of burnout highlight the need for coaches and sport leaders to check in on athletes’ motivation, not just their physical load.