Knowledge Nuggets

A progressive decline in walking speed may be linked with a higher likelihood of developing dementia, according to a new study. Dual decliners – those who experience a decline in gait speed and cognition – have about a 50% risk of progression to dementia. The researchers recommend dual decliners be prioritized for interventions to reduce...

According to the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, children (ages 5-13) require 9 to 11 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night and youth (ages 14-17) require 8 to 10 hours per night. Check out this infographic for tips to encourage a good night’s sleep in your family such as encouraging regular wake-up times on the weekend...

Individuals living with two or more chronic conditions – known as multimorbidity – might need to reconsider their prescriptions. A review of the literature suggests exercise therapy can be safe and beneficial for their physical and psychosocial health, and has a lower risk of negative side effects compared to pharmacological treatments.

Warmer winters contribute to thinner, weaker, and less stable ice. This puts Indigenous communities in northern Canada at increased risk for winter drowning because of their dependence on ice cover for subsistence and travel. Water safety programs that use local cultural and traditional knowledge in dialogue with community stakeholders can empower communities with the capacity...

The mention of a hike can elicit groans, whining, and protests from children and youth. According to Outside magazine contributor Rachel Walker, tips to get your kids on the trails include choosing an interesting trail, giving them responsibilities, inviting their friends, and not skimping on snacks. However, perhaps most importantly, don’t call it “hiking”!

Is focusing on the negatives of the COVID-19 pandemic increasing your stress and decreasing your motivation? Adopting a solution-focused mindset means challenging yourself to find new and better ways to cope with the current realities. Research shows this shift in mindset can increase self-confidence and promote a positive mood.

Stress fractures are observed more frequently in female runners, compared to males. Analysis of women’s perception of risk and behaviors discovered those with a history of fractures increased their training load more quickly, and, despite knowing the benefits, they did not prioritize a balanced diet and complementary cross-training.

Are the bloggers you follow certified exercise professionals? A study from the University of Alberta examined 194 popular fitness and exercise blogs, with a focus on blog authors. Results found only 16.4% of bloggers report have fitness and exercise certifications, although 57% report being a fitness or exercise professional.

Not feeling like you usual positive self? Perhaps you didn’t sleep well last night. Research shows sleep loss reduces our positive feelings in the face of both stressors and positive events.

Following a reduction of public health restrictions, some athletes may be excited about being with friends, returning to training, and looking forward to competition; others will experience fear and anxiety relating to the risk of infection, the effects of detraining, or being behind competitors and teammates. Coaches can learn more to prepare for this range...