Knowledge Nuggets

How a coach interacts with athletes can be significant predictor of athletes’ enjoyment and intentions to stay in sport. A study of 202 elite-level artistic swimmers from 22 countries showed that athletes under the guidance of democratic-style coaches reported elevated levels of athletic enjoyment and expressed greater intent to pursue their athletic careers. This finding...

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how crucial sport brands can be in supporting fans’ mental health. This study, involving 770 sport fans, found that being involved with sport brands helps reduce feelings of emptiness and increases well-being.

Does mental toughness make a difference in sport performance? This review dove into research and found that athletes with higher mental toughness consistently perform better, especially in combat and individual sports.

Motor skill training doesn’t just improve performance, it rewires the brain! Athletes develop fewer but stronger brain connections through training, boosting focus and reaction time and giving them a mental edge.

Curious about your muscle type? This study suggests that the number of reps you can do at 80% of your maximum weight (1RM) reveals whether you have more fast-twitch or slow-twitch muscle fibers.

Chronic alcohol misuse causes muscle weakness and atrophy, while problematic drinking impairs muscle function and athletic performance. This study shows that alcohol consumption hinders muscle recovery and function, potentially reducing sport performance, especially in men.

It was once believed that being slightly behind in a game could boost winning chances in basketball, but new research challenges this idea. Tests across other sports like football and rugby found no similar effect.

Sports participation offers benefits for all, including those with disabilities, by enhancing functionality and reducing anxiety. This review explores these benefits, emphasizing positive outcomes like socialization, enjoyment, and opportunities to challenge stereotypes among individuals with disabilities.

School sport is essential for student education and wellbeing, yet it faces several challenges. A recent study surveyed 82 teacher-coaches and 38 athletic directors across Canada, uncovering 3 main issues with school sports: changing the school sport culture, ensuring long-term sustainability, and the threat posed by club sports.

Regular physical activity across the lifespan could allow people to better tolerate rising temperatures. Research shows that regular physical activity in hot conditions can increase one’s heat tolerance and can help the body deal with stress placed on the cardiovascular system during hot temperatures. Physical activity can also help people cope with the stresses associated...