Knowledge Nuggets

There has long been debate regarding the benefits versus pitfalls of early specialization in sport. A recent study of young basketball players shows that early sport specialization does not provide a physical fitness advantage.

Youth is a time of rapid physical development and growth, and a time when many athletes’ participation in sport also changes. Proper nutrition is key to ensuring healthy growth and injury prevention. Research shows that nutrition advice for adolescent athletes should focus on long-term development and sustainable practices, rather than emphasizing body composition.  

There are limited supports in place for elite athletes returning to sport after pregnancy. A recent Canadian study, based on interviews with elite athletes, identifies key actionable steps for sport organizations to take to support postpartum athletes. Examples of these steps include: screening athletes for psychological and physical readiness in return to training, providing lactation...

Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) can impact athletes’ sports performance and increase their risk of illness and injury. While RED-S can impact all athletes, it has been suggested that Para athletes may be at an increased risk. To better understand, detect and treat RED-S in Para athletes, there is a need to include more...

The Anti-Racism in Sport campaign video features Winnipeg athletes and sport stakeholders sharing their experiences with racism in sport. They offer recommendations to all members of the Canadian sport community to take action against racism in sport.

Consistency when it comes to language is important to consider in the context of athlete development. Some terms that are frequently used in sport have blurry or competing meanings, such as what it means to have “talent,” what it means to be “elite,” or what it means to have “character.” Researchers advise being specific with...

Research shows that for every 30 minutes of sport participation an athlete engages in after a concussion, their days to symptom resolution increase by over 8%. More simply, continuing to play after a concussion can lead to a longer recovery. Highlighting the importance of stopping play after a concussion in terms of long-term health and...

Accessibility is a human right. And it’s essential for 1 in 5 Canadians aged 15 or older, who live with at least 1 disability. This blog post explores why accessibility is important and suggests strategies for coaches and sport organizations to prioritize and improve accessibility, specifically involving technology and communications.

Because natural environments have natural rules with real and immediate consequences, they offer youth maximal opportunities for mastery of new skills. Evidence demonstrates that outdoor recreation not only improves youth wellbeing but may also enhance the likelihood of participation in outdoor activities.

Low energy availability (LEA) refers to when an athlete has an insufficient energy intake compared to their energy expenditure. Yet, coaches remain relatively unaware of symptoms and causes of LEA. This review synthesizes findings on LEA from 1986-2021 so that coaches can be better prepared to support athletes.