Knowledge Nuggets

University sports’ coach-athlete relationships are complex, with short seasons intensifying the challenge. Based on research findings, coaches should prioritize closeness, encourage trust through vulnerability, clarify commitment expectations, enhance communication, and ensure alignment with their coaching philosophy. Addressing the complexity and power dynamics can help create inclusivity and foster effective and stronger bonds.

Research on racialized young women athletes in Canada reveals that they encounter hurdles due to their intersecting identities and discrimination. Embracing diversity and acknowledging their various identities are essential to enhance their sports experiences. It is imperative that sports organizations revamp their approaches to better support these athletes by combating discrimination and stereotypes while advocating...

Positive experiences, such as belonging and mastery in sports and exercise, have a greater impact on the well-being of adults with physical disabilities than their time spent in sport. This study highlighted the importance of creating inclusive, engaging environments and considering social and environmental factors for holistic well-being enhancement in this population

Women are often underrepresented in leadership roles in sports. As such, there is a need to build organizational capacity for women leaders. Researchers suggest that some best practices for organizations include creating family-friendly activities that encourage women to become more involved in an organization and partnering with external organizations to bring new women and girls...

Repeated concussions may disrupt the heart-brain axis, causing irregularities in heart activity and long-term health implications. This new insight emphasizes the importance of measures to reduce the occurrence of concussions in sports. Implementing and strictly enforcing safety protocols can contribute to minimizing the risk of head injuries and subsequent cardiac implications.

Mentorship in coaching is a process where experienced coaches act as role models and teachers for new coaches to support their personal and professional development. Running mentorship programs for women coaches can be very beneficial. However, it is important to purposefully recruit mentorship participants. Canadian research suggests that programs should consider using flexible recruitment strategies...

Ever heard of, or felt, “runner’s high”– that short but relaxing moment of joy some people feel after exercising? Wondering why this phenomenon happens? Dive into the exciting world of endorphins and learn natural ways to boost them. Read ParticipACTION’s blog, Endorphins and exercise 101: Exposing the mysterious link between them.

As we learn more about the environment and look for ways to keep the Earth clean, we look to reduce the waste that we create. No matter who you are in the sport sector, whether it be an athlete, parent, coach, or administrator, changes can be made to reduce environmental footprint. This blog provides information...

Research on new runners found that a strong personal “why” tied to identity and values boosts commitment to running, but social inequalities like gender and health disparities can impede progress despite strong motivation. Effective interventions for new runners should prioritize meaningful motivations and consider individual circumstances while promoting an enjoyable running experience.

Sport can be an escape from life’s stressors. Researchers who investigated the impact of lifetime stress on male athletes’ performance and their willingness to seek mental health help found that sports-related stressors negatively affected their mental health and performance. Athletes also struggled to identify mental health symptoms. This highlights the need for proactive mental health...