Knowledge Nuggets

Female athletes in artistic, endurance and combat sports are at higher risk of developing disordered eating and eating disorders than the general population, and new research reveals some interesting sport-specific differences. For example, female endurance athletes engage in more disordered eating attitudes and behaviours than athletes in artistic and combat sports, emphasizing the importance of...

Prioritizing Indigenous voices is key for sports organizations designing coach education. Collaborative design can enhance cultural pride and support coach development by incorporating Indigenous culture and history. Using traditional methods like storytelling and mentoring, collaborative design aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, promoting Indigenous-led education and decolonizing coaching practices.

One major barrier to sport participation is often financial constraints. In high-income countries, children and adolescents from higher socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to participate in organized sports and meet physical activity guidelines than those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

While the mental health benefits of physical activity are well-documented, the specific advantages remain relatively unexplored. A recent review underscores the benefits that non-contact boxing may offer such as significant relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress.

Pregnant women have unique health considerations, but they’re significantly underrepresented in sport research. As a result, we’re faced with severe knowledge gaps concerning female-specific cardiovascular physiology and sports performance. Researchers are calling for more inclusive research and sex-specific guidelines to better inform the training and participation policies of pregnant women.

Training load monitoring is crucial in sports for boosting performance and managing injury risk. This study highlights that while the data from these monitors are complex, they are vital for making informed decisions and improving both player performance and overall team success.

The inclusion of sports like skateboarding, BMX freestyle, and sport climbing in the Olympics has sparked mixed reactions within their communities. This study explores how these athletes and enthusiasts feel about joining the Olympic fold. It reveals concerns about losing their sports’ unique identities and traditions, especially as the emphasis shifts towards competition.

Muscle cramps are a common issue in marathons, often affecting runners’ performance. This study compared muscle damage and dehydration between marathoners with and without exercise-associated muscle cramps (EAMC). Runners with EAMC had higher levels of muscle damage markers but similar dehydration and electrolyte levels compared to those without cramps.

Organized sports have been increasingly used as a platform to promote mental health. This study found that sport-based interventions in non-elite sports, had moderate to strong positive effects on mental health literacy, including reduced stigma and increased knowledge.

Vitamin D is crucial for health as it impacts bone health and immune function. Indoor elite athletes have been shown to have lower vitamin D levels compared to outdoor athletes, with nearly all indoor athletes being deficient in the vitamin.